tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55118398572016667262024-03-05T18:16:59.770-08:00The Kel ShowA little food, a little fashion, a little fun, and a whole lot of living!
Learning to live life without a scale telling me whether or not I can be happy! No stepping on a scale for a year!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-31860561297114376232011-11-23T17:56:00.000-08:002011-11-23T18:08:57.956-08:00A Thanksgiving MenuBen and I are staying home tomorrow for Thanksgiving. We had some invitations, but really just wanted to spend some downtime together for the holiday.<br />
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Even though it is just the two of us (and Paco!) we are still preparing a holiday meal.<br />
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I thought I would share what we are having. There are many recipes on the internet that I contemplated; I wanted to share the ones we decided on!<br />
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Ben is making his Turkey enchiladas. I will prepare the turkey by braising it. I am removing the breast meat from the bone, then pan searing. I will saute a mira poix, leaks, garlic, 2-3 bay leaves, rosemary and thyme then add chicken stock. This would actually be great with a brown or beef stock, but I want to keep the more natural flavor of the turkey breast for the enchiladas. (If you are using beef stock, please add some red wine too to make an amazing sauce! For more of a "gravy" than a sauce, add about 1-2 ounces of flour after sautéing your veggies. Cook off the flour , then add your herbs and liquids.) Braise at 350 until done. A full turkey (cut into pieces) will take about 90 minutes. Cover with foil and cook until about 165 degrees. Because we will be using these in enchiladas I will cook until about 155 degrees as to not dry it out.<br />
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Ben makes an amazing green enchilada sauce with green chiles, chicken stock, flour, and chile powder. He stacks corn tortillas, sour cream, onion, cheddar cheese, turkey and the sauce and bakes until hot and bubbly. If I am ambitious enough tomorrow, maybe I will create a recipe.<br />
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I am making turkey tamales using <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/turkey-tamales-recipe/index.html">this Alton Brown recipe.</a> I have never made tamales but I love them! I am looking forward to trying this.<br />
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I am also going to make a Red Sauce for the tamales using this recipe from my friend Sylvia:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Chile Colorado (Basic Red Chile Sauce)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Yield: 2 cups </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Temperature: Medium, Low </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Freezes Well</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">2 tablespoons shortening </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">2 tablespoons flour </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">1/4 - 3/4 cup Red Chile Powder </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">2 cups chicken or beef broth </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">3/4 teaspoon salt</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">1/2 teaspoon garlic</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Oregano (optional ½ tsp)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Cumin (optional ½ tsp)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">1.Heat shortening in a medium saucepan on medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, I like to cook until the flour turns light brown.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">2.Add chile powder and cook for an additional minute.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">3.Gradually add the broth and stir, making sure that no lumps form.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">4.Add seasonings to sauce and simmer at low heat for 10-15 minutes.</span><br />
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Since I had to buy masa harina for the tamales, I may try to make our own corn tortillas. Would you believe William Sonoma did not have a tortilla press? I am going to have to go old school and roll these out by hand. I understand getting them thin enough is the challenge!<br />
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For sides, I am making <a href="http://onceuponachef.com/">these green beans</a> and roasted brussels sprouts. While you are on the Once Upon a Chef site, check out the scone recipe. A-mazing!<br />
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Dessert? Of course! I won't skimp on Thanksgiving. I am of the camp that believes that I did not become morbidly obese because of Thanksgiving dinner. It was the other 364 days a year!<br />
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<a href="http://passthesushi.com/cinnamon-chai-cream-pie">This is the recipe</a> I will be making for dessert. Cinnamon Chai cream pie just sounded too good to pass up! I will be using Ginger Thins instead of graham crackers in the crust.<br />
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I am looking forward to our non-traditional Thanksgiving meal!<br />
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We are not going to run any organized 5k this year; instead, Ben, Paco and I will be heading out for our own 5k! I am actually quite excited to not set an alarm to wake up on time year to be able to drive downtown and park before the 5k we have run the last two years. There are no times we have to do anything; I think I am looking forward to that more than anything. Well, spending the weekend with Ben and Paco is actually what I am looking forward to the most. I got new running shoes tonight so I am eager to try those out too!<br />
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These turkeys walked passed our home this morning; Paco wanted nothing to do with them!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHZ3hWvIQcsLFTY0nByEJvxEpV9ET9WcDSzVdEy75bkb6uNWohQFlDCvrq_7zpG3ZC5EK4sGnUuy1Fk4xTDbhg4fNbWv7LpGeiT0JBXun6Uvlu2dHgTdCpIYfR5w30yaRMeXcqnSLFrYH/s1600/turkeys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHZ3hWvIQcsLFTY0nByEJvxEpV9ET9WcDSzVdEy75bkb6uNWohQFlDCvrq_7zpG3ZC5EK4sGnUuy1Fk4xTDbhg4fNbWv7LpGeiT0JBXun6Uvlu2dHgTdCpIYfR5w30yaRMeXcqnSLFrYH/s320/turkeys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving!<br />
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KelKelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-2615771281295925412011-11-06T13:14:00.000-08:002011-11-06T13:18:41.497-08:00The First Step......is often admitting that you have a problem. So, here goes.<br />
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I, Kel, like to bake. <br />
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Nope, that simply does not express it accurately enough.<br />
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I, Kel, love to bake. <br />
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Hmmm, while that is closer to the truth, I think I need a little more zing.<br />
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I, Kel, have a baking <i>obsession.</i><br />
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</i><br />
It was not always like this. Sure, I remember in high school baking chocolate chip cookies using the recipe on the Nestle package. I used to babysit for a family, and when they threw big dinner parties, I was always in charge of the baked goods. As a teenager, I was making Julia Childs' flourless chocolate cake. I just followed the recipe. To think, she got all my glory! <br />
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There is a precision to baking that I love. I always so there are those that love to cook, and those that love to bake. Cooks can take ingredients and swap them out, deciding that today they wish to use twice as much thyme as the recipe calls for, or perhaps to skip the salt, as there is already enough there.<br />
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Baking is measuring; it is chemical reactions that should not be messed with. I really should learn the details of the chemistry, but why?<br />
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I came across <i><a href="http://inthelittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2011/11/day-one.html">this English Muffin recipe</a> </i>last week. I had seen the recipe before, but for whatever reason, the directions on <i><a href="http://inthelittleredhouse.blogspot.com/">the little red house</a> </i>made me realize that I can do this! All it would take were two ingredients that I needed to buy; nonfat powdered milk and bar jar lids!<br />
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I wish you could have seen my happy dance at the grocery store when I found out that you can buy the jar lids without actually buying the jars! It was Festival in Vadnais Heights; contact them to see if they have security footage.<br />
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I was waxing poetic (ha - in 104 characters or less) on Twitter yesterday about these little babies.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRnDP93zKZSxJuDMo3WsV7A7DAbVJcB0MzuByGaNTbKzpylKYMfxgj5XkvYj8dPJRJoIDpIiroYRJ70Wmb44Y_ezZu2njXqmwl3sViIZKfP8L2VhnCbHH6F-Asj_7gDCJqivE2EccPnLw/s1600/e006379a07df11e1abb01231381b65e3_7+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRnDP93zKZSxJuDMo3WsV7A7DAbVJcB0MzuByGaNTbKzpylKYMfxgj5XkvYj8dPJRJoIDpIiroYRJ70Wmb44Y_ezZu2njXqmwl3sViIZKfP8L2VhnCbHH6F-Asj_7gDCJqivE2EccPnLw/s320/e006379a07df11e1abb01231381b65e3_7+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I proudly present to you nooks and crannies!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">You don't cut these in half; you gently pull them apart before placing them in the toaster to crisp up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">If you are lucky, you have homemade ricotta and Trader Joe's honey apple butter in the refrigerator. I make my own luck, and my own ricotta, thanks to <i><a href="http://karmacucina.com/homemade-ricotta/">this recipe</a>.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">I left the house this morning for some exercise thinking it would be pumpkin pancakes upon our return. Nope. All I could think about where these english muffins. With a runny egg. And black beans. And salsa. And cheese. Don't forget the avocado. Sorry, no pictures as my appetite would simply not allow it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, what is an obsessed baker to do but bake more? A double batch at that.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRCk3yXLLwwY7GFHDcE2rZHEmb7ARzbCInem7g_Zwj_Pp3obwncX1ZwFzQ1ldrJQ_iIXnNPJTNctUiCz-STjDRgM21lBrnkfjJXTmBjPCkcZjNoDnTz8uN3mu3PyzXcbCba3P7JkyyI8yo/s1600/d8083a5608b711e180c9123138016265_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRCk3yXLLwwY7GFHDcE2rZHEmb7ARzbCInem7g_Zwj_Pp3obwncX1ZwFzQ1ldrJQ_iIXnNPJTNctUiCz-STjDRgM21lBrnkfjJXTmBjPCkcZjNoDnTz8uN3mu3PyzXcbCba3P7JkyyI8yo/s320/d8083a5608b711e180c9123138016265_7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today I successfully made 8 per batch; yesterday I overfilled the lids.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I did not use the gluten in the recipe as <i>the little red house </i>did<i>; </i> I used white wheat King Arthur flour and was very pleased with the results!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=736919" /></a><br />
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Fingers crossed that these freeze well!<br />
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Enjoy the recipe!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-8058335276180606552011-10-23T10:15:00.000-07:002011-10-23T15:53:48.098-07:00So Much Pumpkin, So Little TimeI have been eating so many pumpkin-laced foods of late, I am turning orange!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wj3s-xbyr_VDGqukH3_qNGDLfqYWa3U7TKUHLxxWLqa-YBrL9P56ExkMn95vtkLCy-i6e7Vck50LPFdXQZ8ABIx8JoFlALf4Cspx6BjTwn_9mmC8t_ry4XJN2NRfBSshN1i2NdM71RvT/s1600/photo+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wj3s-xbyr_VDGqukH3_qNGDLfqYWa3U7TKUHLxxWLqa-YBrL9P56ExkMn95vtkLCy-i6e7Vck50LPFdXQZ8ABIx8JoFlALf4Cspx6BjTwn_9mmC8t_ry4XJN2NRfBSshN1i2NdM71RvT/s320/photo+%252811%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Enjoying amazing beer at Surly's Darkness Day</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of course I am kidding about the turning orange part. I am not kidding about the pumpkin, however.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pumpkin chili, pumpkin gingersnaps, pumpkin whoopie pies, pumpkin pancakes, and a little butternut squash lasagne to break up the pumpkin monotony.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It seems I never use a full can, and end up wondering how I can use the remains that sit in my refrigerator.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today I decided to jazz up my pumpkin pancakes, and make Pumpkin Gingersnap Pancakes. So good I had to share! Bear with me; remember I am not a professional when it comes to food styling or photography.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3OWKWz-0HYfpzdE52R68i7l04SSz5eKKEPqgWPs0Y3PwdWpTp3LfqITLsCqIc5ilW-0C5yYP5ILzxAX6O3Akl2sUx5YQ9IajRRQYSZAfDY8HeWBpSeMnVl6uw180oLObDCcJ_bFoCEVY/s1600/DSCN1635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3OWKWz-0HYfpzdE52R68i7l04SSz5eKKEPqgWPs0Y3PwdWpTp3LfqITLsCqIc5ilW-0C5yYP5ILzxAX6O3Akl2sUx5YQ9IajRRQYSZAfDY8HeWBpSeMnVl6uw180oLObDCcJ_bFoCEVY/s320/DSCN1635.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Plain and simple and ready to be dressed.</i></span> </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQUS8HYLNk69-5t11JaqImVBPtRE8NVGxKIuNyGbBMjSG3qsjSrkD4c7ItT1YyA1c99ReRCTdWFbABiwNy2rdaZBucwRMteq9ZoJAmOaWZjQiNmQGPL7N7aff8CdXbAO4xTMdwKRNsjpQ/s1600/DSCN1637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQUS8HYLNk69-5t11JaqImVBPtRE8NVGxKIuNyGbBMjSG3qsjSrkD4c7ItT1YyA1c99ReRCTdWFbABiwNy2rdaZBucwRMteq9ZoJAmOaWZjQiNmQGPL7N7aff8CdXbAO4xTMdwKRNsjpQ/s320/DSCN1637.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.biscoff.com/DirectionsWEB/webcart_category.php?catid=BSPREAD&pcatid=BISCOFF&sourcecode=GOOGLE12&gclid=CL-Xkuee_6sCFRtjgwod3gGYlA">Biscoff Spread</a> and Maple Syrup come to the party.</i></span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MROQJ8AhI-Yu7o9Ul8k85rdisTw3I_dUm4NTkJikZJ8yzWxlXASDVjr2uQHtZUiqjcs8pEErm2za07wCwzqsOZs1mxzSJG3KCxjrKOirtwHVfaYXOSaIq8AYI3J5IlAgwB2WVWVsuyZq/s1600/DSCN1638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6MROQJ8AhI-Yu7o9Ul8k85rdisTw3I_dUm4NTkJikZJ8yzWxlXASDVjr2uQHtZUiqjcs8pEErm2za07wCwzqsOZs1mxzSJG3KCxjrKOirtwHVfaYXOSaIq8AYI3J5IlAgwB2WVWVsuyZq/s320/DSCN1638.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Banana slices and a piece of bacon complete the ensemble!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Don't get me started on the Biscoff spread. If you have ever had the Biscoff cookies they serve on Delta Airlines, these are them, in spreadable form. A teaspoon contributes nothing nutritionally, but it so indulgent and delicious! If I believed in good and<i> bad </i>I would tell you it makes me feel like I am being <i>bad. </i>But I don't, so I won't!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Okay, back to the Pumpkin Gingersnap Pancakes<br />
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The recipe will make 8 pancakes and the serving below is for one pancake.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">1.5 tablespoons butter, melted</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup white wheat flour</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/8th (yes half of a quarter) cup granulated sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 1/4 tea baking powder</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 tea baking soda</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 tea kosher salt</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 tea cinnamon</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tea ginger</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 tea cloves</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/4 tea nutmeg</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup buttermilk<br />
1/2 cup canned pumpkin (Thanks Anne!)</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 egg</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 tea vanilla<br />
1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In a large bowl, whisk all of the dry ingredients - flour thru nutmeg above. </div><div style="text-align: left;">In a medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk, pumpkin, egg, vanilla and molasses.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix gently until the dry ingredients are almost incorporated. Add the cooled melted butter in and mix just until the batter is evenly moistened. (If you beat the crap out of it, you just made pumpkin pot holders as they will be tough as leather.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I am going to assume you know from this point how to cook pancakes. Don't put your griddle pan, electric skillet or frying pan on high and blast the heck out of them. Medium heat works. Let your griddle pan heat up after you have mixed your batter; this will give it a time to rest making for a more tender pancake. (<i>The magazine Fine Cooking told me that!</i>) A drop of water should briefly <i>dance</i> across the pan when it is the right temp. (<i>Yep, their words again, not mine.</i>) I like to take a little canola oil and a teaspoon of butter and melt it then brush it on my griddle. <br />
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I scoop about a quarter cup of batter for these and that is plenty big! I freeze the leftovers for a quick weekday breakfast too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">If you are cooking in batches, have your oven set at 200 degrees to keep warm while you cook the others.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here is what enjoying a pancake can do for you:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=731591" /></a><br />
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Just a few more thoughts to add (totally non pumpkin related!) since I have not been around for a couple of months.<br />
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We are enjoying our sweet Paco so much! He has grown quite a bit since last I shared any pictures of him. He is now up to 7 pounds and I believe this is about as big as he will get.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMVVUEabPO82gJINFrQUMsUTy8qZsVnJuaR-lKqyCF0fDSbz7i9KYZQNmCT4u2026MHXfrUjAzd3Ok0e5TuRm2u9djmWO0GTWaUGTyV36jBhaECWycSvrjfeE-QAIhyZF-0fTOOI3oi-T/s1600/DSCN1607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMVVUEabPO82gJINFrQUMsUTy8qZsVnJuaR-lKqyCF0fDSbz7i9KYZQNmCT4u2026MHXfrUjAzd3Ok0e5TuRm2u9djmWO0GTWaUGTyV36jBhaECWycSvrjfeE-QAIhyZF-0fTOOI3oi-T/s320/DSCN1607.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>He despises his collar and leash. He actually shakes and gets a tear or two in his eye when he realizes it is time for a walk.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Once he is out there, he loves it!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0ybfiF2VokV-qiQWW-XW2rs_dcF17KPWfFcr-IzlfAe5XyZBfCBCdqV3JxBpFLGw4FsbNrI4RGSRjCKv4Lob2SQdKbPwRO9-c_GO8FeGA73vR1LsfS2U9ZILICJPdVR7hnZIVmoWaeXH/s1600/DSCN1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0ybfiF2VokV-qiQWW-XW2rs_dcF17KPWfFcr-IzlfAe5XyZBfCBCdqV3JxBpFLGw4FsbNrI4RGSRjCKv4Lob2SQdKbPwRO9-c_GO8FeGA73vR1LsfS2U9ZILICJPdVR7hnZIVmoWaeXH/s320/DSCN1617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I love his little fluffy poof at the end of his tail!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">As for me, I have been busy with work and, well, living. The only new thing, I guess, is that I changed the part in my hair! Really!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Two weeks ago:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3D6JNVLpK0vUGuEQjGaBDVC0pozCUbDdXl9OE76q0WCLlXPXM8QnncexMHq80YdRNtXyQ5-_L18hwannhksUmMhVv6ZtoeiI59uzSx0UJAiffNT1Kia_ctie_F7b-F9OOSmiq1ksC84SO/s1600/DSCN1625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3D6JNVLpK0vUGuEQjGaBDVC0pozCUbDdXl9OE76q0WCLlXPXM8QnncexMHq80YdRNtXyQ5-_L18hwannhksUmMhVv6ZtoeiI59uzSx0UJAiffNT1Kia_ctie_F7b-F9OOSmiq1ksC84SO/s320/DSCN1625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And yesterday...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNtQXtDoRJqOVyAxQdbui3hl9RYTII4iTNiPe1bkL4MkYl03xrvhIOM5ldR9UexN6YzEK19NoIQ_9dlmWGrCPyN3zOZ86vBJVT-gCeQViKShzhpNcWsJTPpxBRFarorgjZF4lwx4x_y-j/s1600/photo+%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNtQXtDoRJqOVyAxQdbui3hl9RYTII4iTNiPe1bkL4MkYl03xrvhIOM5ldR9UexN6YzEK19NoIQ_9dlmWGrCPyN3zOZ86vBJVT-gCeQViKShzhpNcWsJTPpxBRFarorgjZF4lwx4x_y-j/s320/photo+%252811%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I like it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4HoBTXvH-FjQOUC83j5rsht7o2DCku1bCq585WEXDDmqlyBw6j0_qW_sXkBos6OqG0o9c1XTRxToyd0CjZP3xeeF02Hpm5IniMO2_cIucB7HmKYtGKCCIWEgkdHxtqi1iCdb0qjXBn9K/s1600/photo+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4HoBTXvH-FjQOUC83j5rsht7o2DCku1bCq585WEXDDmqlyBw6j0_qW_sXkBos6OqG0o9c1XTRxToyd0CjZP3xeeF02Hpm5IniMO2_cIucB7HmKYtGKCCIWEgkdHxtqi1iCdb0qjXBn9K/s320/photo+%252812%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, yesterday I also had a sweet potato taco for lunch and a sweet potato for dinner. The orange fest continues.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you all are well out there!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Remember, eat like you mean it. Enjoy some pumpkin pancakes along the way!</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-10344078048521603362011-08-13T13:38:00.000-07:002011-08-13T13:39:19.238-07:00Let Them Know You Love ThemYou cannot tell me that food does not have power.<br />
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Via the electronic world yesterday, I was sent to a blog I had never read before. The post was called <a href="http://www.injennieskitchen.com/2011/08/for-mikey.html">for mikey.</a><br />
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I read it and felt my heart breaking for the blog writer.<br />
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Today, again, via the magic of the internet, I am seeing an outpouring of love for this woman and her family. Take a moment to watch <a href="http://whiteonricecouple.com/films-documentaries/video-creamy-peanut-butter-pie-mikey-jennifer-perillo/">this video</a>. It is beautiful.<br />
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I have mentioned often the food website <a href="http://www.tastespotting.com/">Tastespotting</a>; I use it as a resource for amazing recipes. Today, it is all about peanut butter pie, again, dedicated to this one blogger and her loss.<br />
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I am left in awe.<br />
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I know many of us have spent countless hours telling ourselves that food does not have to be the center of the universe. I think all of this reminded me today that there are special times for special recipes and special occasions. Food does have power; a power to create smiles and memories, to help us celebrate, to cause angst and worry to some, and to fuel us. <br />
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What this has to do with a healthy journey I am not sure. I just had to get these words out there. Hug the ones you love, and let them know just how much they are loved. Even if that means today you eat pie.<br />
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I love you guys!<br />
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KelKelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-69100023996047126212011-08-06T18:11:00.000-07:002011-08-06T18:59:08.876-07:00A Perfect Summer MealHere are a lot of my favorite foods combined into one meal!<br />
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Having bookmarked this recipe for <a href="http://authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2011/05/avocado-and-grilled-corn-salad-with.html">Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad </a>quite some time ago, I decided today was the day to make it. Fresh local corn is now available, and this seemed like the perfect excuse to fire up the grill.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-NpmN5WlR230FZ4KPdf2wn7OnxuQdqtJ0URjoeQd0dFaBCxxDMGu5zMh4lQBmcqxGeZXHy1wxdVvIAf5YhbJ1BNUl6gsaH-wZgw28kMhtSzlaYQULfK0E33UqBoaLYcoAaFXsfmqrn1x/s1600/DSCN1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-NpmN5WlR230FZ4KPdf2wn7OnxuQdqtJ0URjoeQd0dFaBCxxDMGu5zMh4lQBmcqxGeZXHy1wxdVvIAf5YhbJ1BNUl6gsaH-wZgw28kMhtSzlaYQULfK0E33UqBoaLYcoAaFXsfmqrn1x/s320/DSCN1553.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Actually, the real excuse was for these peaches, but I will get to that in a moment!</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I make a very similar salad with just the avocado, tomato and red onion. Adding the grilled corn was a no brainer; why can't I think of these things?</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1z4RRmmVWQbLraEfvBfThupOCxq1WRCYNePkWg0RC7L-9HPLPipHsChoV32KaY6Ay8_NOQpeF-2WpomquISrqxU6CNrv0xbTpISi8ksMs_tjek7eNL9CTIYbS1JyLB4UaoDSZ09hZTsEM/s1600/DSCN1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1z4RRmmVWQbLraEfvBfThupOCxq1WRCYNePkWg0RC7L-9HPLPipHsChoV32KaY6Ay8_NOQpeF-2WpomquISrqxU6CNrv0xbTpISi8ksMs_tjek7eNL9CTIYbS1JyLB4UaoDSZ09hZTsEM/s320/DSCN1555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Well, I did add something! I added the grilled shrimp. I marinated the raw shrimp in olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper and some red pepper flakes. Measurements? Yeah, not so much. I soaked some bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes, loaded these bad boys up and grilled them.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEHvcgRG34TTDHoqgsAHyTIajIUlM8A2foN8aFXc7TBN0aaJC62vbufZCt2G-cneMCTBipSxWpB3O3w9mMu1Y8Fql168ZAZgM9Fo6OwJJyCfnyJHddqSdgYfHJ7sHd-B8rnQvHmr0f6iDR/s1600/DSCN1554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEHvcgRG34TTDHoqgsAHyTIajIUlM8A2foN8aFXc7TBN0aaJC62vbufZCt2G-cneMCTBipSxWpB3O3w9mMu1Y8Fql168ZAZgM9Fo6OwJJyCfnyJHddqSdgYfHJ7sHd-B8rnQvHmr0f6iDR/s320/DSCN1554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>While I realize my siding does not make a great backdrop, I liked this shot of my dinner!</i></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">With the leftovers I can guarantee I will add some black beans!</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, the peaches...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I finally caught up on some reading over on Nutrimirror and <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/mom/journal/1312430054/grilled-fruit">read this post by m.o.m.</a> - our resident chefs! I have always wanted to try grilled peaches. Maybe sometime I will make them with the yogurt, warm honey and walnuts like Bobby Flay does, but tonight, they will be enjoyed naked. I cannot believe how much they taste just like peach pie! I did nothing but brush the grill with canola oil as m.o.m. suggested. The natural sweetness is amazing!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Speaking of naked...Paco officially has no shame!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAdTnafmm9gOP3ybMRvJKq1PA5RGAnmBKa44C_vjNgVqbat9vLUNMj1BWozcLMrAkd0RIWlKHnZ8QCOtF_vk9Ayj2b5kqPz3nglJUIU1y5JsvQBurR67SPwv4B-xXLL5CZ5VR4MXY-3T2/s1600/DSCN1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAdTnafmm9gOP3ybMRvJKq1PA5RGAnmBKa44C_vjNgVqbat9vLUNMj1BWozcLMrAkd0RIWlKHnZ8QCOtF_vk9Ayj2b5kqPz3nglJUIU1y5JsvQBurR67SPwv4B-xXLL5CZ5VR4MXY-3T2/s320/DSCN1540.JPG" width="168" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Here he is in all his glory; this is his favorite sleeping position on the couch. He kills me.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBGMngWnjLjlgmNHPuJKZpEggEKuoKUkHhDeU48XciaaiZzdv0R8ldzE97qD6jrPZekAG-yeeCbepuC4v22CyEDD52AeJLX1R-ZwM57n5OyNl0ir9bWkMqC_qgdeFV-ui-sumfGYZM3Sb/s1600/DSCN1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBGMngWnjLjlgmNHPuJKZpEggEKuoKUkHhDeU48XciaaiZzdv0R8ldzE97qD6jrPZekAG-yeeCbepuC4v22CyEDD52AeJLX1R-ZwM57n5OyNl0ir9bWkMqC_qgdeFV-ui-sumfGYZM3Sb/s320/DSCN1525.JPG" width="287" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Here he is caught in a more serious moment.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZ0HdWKl9PH70FrYpNIvUtMaEQTIX4_N3K0M1_KBUz5dox8wD3X6suu_pqVI7Dfhvwk-Jld3eRBYjlUmGOrKokmXmuGaUgNrNgkaJlQll4Xa_Snm4VJpkaB40nwRQt9VDujfGVhsF45R_/s1600/DSCN1527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZ0HdWKl9PH70FrYpNIvUtMaEQTIX4_N3K0M1_KBUz5dox8wD3X6suu_pqVI7Dfhvwk-Jld3eRBYjlUmGOrKokmXmuGaUgNrNgkaJlQll4Xa_Snm4VJpkaB40nwRQt9VDujfGVhsF45R_/s320/DSCN1527.JPG" width="289" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This is the little man prancing towards me.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">I can't believe how big he is already getting! He can now go all the way upstairs; downstairs is a different story. He helps me on a daily basis with core strengthening. I often have to stand on one foot as he attempts to chew off my toes! He is starting to realize when I say "hey!" that I mean business!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">He is lucky he is so cute...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope you are enjoying a restful weekend, and have a chance to try this salad soon. Lots of chopping but so worth the effort.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are the salad stats; this was for a 188 gram serving (how precise of me and Nutrimirror). Stats do not include the shrimp. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=704651" /></a>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-6978848829100586692011-07-31T09:04:00.000-07:002011-07-31T09:04:14.940-07:00Paco: A Great Excuse for a Party!Some colorful pictures of paella, the veggie prep, and a few Paco shots.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFd4xRhLEgpmNnO03x4w2HcbFmQVExwe-51GRkWzCvmZDHnvGgRpnFdOJJgy_qnWBZGPTvQHEpQdkYuQBpXkxcSQbtipp1rBGiUqf5RcnFfgVdKJCLN9qdmXMu0dUWKAMjV8_449X7J90W/s1600/DSCN1511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFd4xRhLEgpmNnO03x4w2HcbFmQVExwe-51GRkWzCvmZDHnvGgRpnFdOJJgy_qnWBZGPTvQHEpQdkYuQBpXkxcSQbtipp1rBGiUqf5RcnFfgVdKJCLN9qdmXMu0dUWKAMjV8_449X7J90W/s320/DSCN1511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I am in charge of all the chopping; here are the tomatoes, artichoke hearts, peppers, onions, and garlic. Not pictured (because they were in the refrigerator): sausage, chicken and shrimp.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PbQSBXKx_7vmKJbqT595LrsHEkMMAJo6JKAzuwkBgVVOwpknfsZ80JlgZiozlDGMrhDqWrHX0Syq2RAbzmMLIZUuAG2iig6NcCRjCYCFRt-FVUV-VBuNaIvq4ffo7RvsA7RMnnmzv_59/s1600/DSCN1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PbQSBXKx_7vmKJbqT595LrsHEkMMAJo6JKAzuwkBgVVOwpknfsZ80JlgZiozlDGMrhDqWrHX0Syq2RAbzmMLIZUuAG2iig6NcCRjCYCFRt-FVUV-VBuNaIvq4ffo7RvsA7RMnnmzv_59/s320/DSCN1513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This was one HUGE batch of Paella; look at it in comparison to TJ's head!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRU2deDl4jPBGlyFTXi2N0bFJPzAazi-Bf4XV1XWIl8aZRVBC93DlX1thFPsnd8ESX_kjDbawacbJX2CoKtFo4cO8-kgrDQq42Kou8vYjOHlon27NuvTDcJpKReoddH3N2SNk-4O7OKIS8/s1600/DSCN1514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRU2deDl4jPBGlyFTXi2N0bFJPzAazi-Bf4XV1XWIl8aZRVBC93DlX1thFPsnd8ESX_kjDbawacbJX2CoKtFo4cO8-kgrDQq42Kou8vYjOHlon27NuvTDcJpKReoddH3N2SNk-4O7OKIS8/s320/DSCN1514.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>C'mon over! There is plenty leftover!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-zynuwPRdJe4lDrmYVs9UmI4S11p5nwro1TRlAIOpI7RwxNsyqAHHpHbT4lL3jYhKeT8_e-5kbgHyXlQAKMpNzBG9AaWqLhYmTYInN4FzwlvWRX8J5bSNI5eM3pNVtOgG0UY7Jx-tgHW/s1600/DSCN1515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-zynuwPRdJe4lDrmYVs9UmI4S11p5nwro1TRlAIOpI7RwxNsyqAHHpHbT4lL3jYhKeT8_e-5kbgHyXlQAKMpNzBG9AaWqLhYmTYInN4FzwlvWRX8J5bSNI5eM3pNVtOgG0UY7Jx-tgHW/s320/DSCN1515.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Hot cornbread on the side.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oJ8CZEA7kmmo9lcNrRK7HxepMskiRWUG8NMUgBhCNu92-s206wn1b9QwjZkKnHU1FxocoPrg29hQXpmY2UCN-TjPGv_pZ-7yatqPQ5ynIKKRP48aW1ANax7tCGuo2lRlFzAhZbvcvCD1/s1600/DSCN1519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oJ8CZEA7kmmo9lcNrRK7HxepMskiRWUG8NMUgBhCNu92-s206wn1b9QwjZkKnHU1FxocoPrg29hQXpmY2UCN-TjPGv_pZ-7yatqPQ5ynIKKRP48aW1ANax7tCGuo2lRlFzAhZbvcvCD1/s320/DSCN1519.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Lemon cupcakes for dessert; the delicious recipe was found on <a href="http://startingtosimmer.blogspot.com/2011/06/lemon-cupcakes.html">this blog</a>. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWyzU7kY33srKupI8aCuy-QC07jA2M3ZxmSK2BiPnu6VuNbjdxf5iqyQHk1vlhH1wUmW-osgiCaWMHxQLKoqb-UqKBFulXjbkQTlKSWJYSUswgMFo3ur1Uj_nvmzmufqJlfoDwZqsmmVba/s1600/DSCN1509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWyzU7kY33srKupI8aCuy-QC07jA2M3ZxmSK2BiPnu6VuNbjdxf5iqyQHk1vlhH1wUmW-osgiCaWMHxQLKoqb-UqKBFulXjbkQTlKSWJYSUswgMFo3ur1Uj_nvmzmufqJlfoDwZqsmmVba/s320/DSCN1509.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paco has taken over my favorite corner of the couch. I can't say I put up much of a battle!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ajqHdWqZdW3E8DuM9cxbfzlHV6B2VKOmcU03vykDggSk8l20F6e7P1L0D7TJOKh3ZThUYd3pvEbZFVssLBhdK0aoCSF0fJ4ZEt9ZFrbwspiTm0lmhXcIW7Gj2TmOTeA2qLoA9fgr2F5C/s1600/DSCN1512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ajqHdWqZdW3E8DuM9cxbfzlHV6B2VKOmcU03vykDggSk8l20F6e7P1L0D7TJOKh3ZThUYd3pvEbZFVssLBhdK0aoCSF0fJ4ZEt9ZFrbwspiTm0lmhXcIW7Gj2TmOTeA2qLoA9fgr2F5C/s320/DSCN1512.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Catching some zzz's before his guests arrive.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYLa7E5GkjwxB7Kp6rY9a1bLdD_cD2tBXLbn0CPgmXkcHWJpiT1AhGPvNgPgLe3iRULp8663p6FcirUz6OEX7eZzWbWY0ynP0T2EYVyfBKo5Yw_zHa6h83K0pP7ttG52MwLfD9PMc5n9d/s1600/DSCN1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYLa7E5GkjwxB7Kp6rY9a1bLdD_cD2tBXLbn0CPgmXkcHWJpiT1AhGPvNgPgLe3iRULp8663p6FcirUz6OEX7eZzWbWY0ynP0T2EYVyfBKo5Yw_zHa6h83K0pP7ttG52MwLfD9PMc5n9d/s320/DSCN1518.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>A puppy stare down. That is Paco's new friend Gabby on the right. He would not leave her alone!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yesterday was all about party prep; shopping, baking, cleaning (thank you Ben) and paella prep.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today is all about laundry, relaxing and Paco! We (Paco and I) were up at 5:55 this morning for playtime. After breakfast, we (Ben, Paco and I) went for a walk. At this point, Paco scampers leash-less. It will be interesting to see how he does when he is tethered. For now, he stays pretty close and does a wonderful job keeping up with the bi-ped crowd! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, he is sacked out, back in the corner.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Just getting his rest before the afternoon walk!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you have a great Sunday!</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-79763165034180998922011-07-28T20:15:00.000-07:002011-07-28T20:48:27.564-07:00Meet Paco Chavez Javier Castroneves!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBtSyMr4s2PnG0Hvf8YXMQcxWP0Ws4L2nQKFzUyhXoe-Rkc6Hg29gx8YWgA9YbpQ2xvoYXyfCv-gTEggc-j4DRyBbtqpjaxBcW8thtiDZLkbLssJYbeFDbV-0tbLqm-Ncv8_TW4byfPy8/s1600/IMG_5019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBtSyMr4s2PnG0Hvf8YXMQcxWP0Ws4L2nQKFzUyhXoe-Rkc6Hg29gx8YWgA9YbpQ2xvoYXyfCv-gTEggc-j4DRyBbtqpjaxBcW8thtiDZLkbLssJYbeFDbV-0tbLqm-Ncv8_TW4byfPy8/s320/IMG_5019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Hi!</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs93Y9I-SveXv1qZnIbMVT9QCKEnrNNUwZvhrhVf52Xhyphenhyphen6LRWZbWC9kXB0dTvTYTK0P9IVaW0FDnGE1hepeGwTXvVWFkcr7QC0yMzLtPa8w46vfDtPCUCyN5Mg3rIsoUjURGZ0F7vuBfQP/s1600/IMG_5015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs93Y9I-SveXv1qZnIbMVT9QCKEnrNNUwZvhrhVf52Xhyphenhyphen6LRWZbWC9kXB0dTvTYTK0P9IVaW0FDnGE1hepeGwTXvVWFkcr7QC0yMzLtPa8w46vfDtPCUCyN5Mg3rIsoUjURGZ0F7vuBfQP/s320/IMG_5015.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I am a long hair Chihuahua!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcznd7Wm_nJc7N7IoOyjfrL42r9M0d0e0SK9toGajUs4RxwztbIO1a6pOzvgJu_cPGyl_ARZ3exyQwSUAKYVsna1UpIQ_qohUGuorGHg_GUK025AETh9JsOlRokH5ymowO1RnMqdnc6dU/s1600/IMG_5016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcznd7Wm_nJc7N7IoOyjfrL42r9M0d0e0SK9toGajUs4RxwztbIO1a6pOzvgJu_cPGyl_ARZ3exyQwSUAKYVsna1UpIQ_qohUGuorGHg_GUK025AETh9JsOlRokH5ymowO1RnMqdnc6dU/s320/IMG_5016.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This was taken the first time I met my mom.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUmHXquRNajVeWdVaRgv_O3xE_SkBHNEiB3rgxQQ_pf0jrfbE4UPEh64kpkLylJ-Va7XP56XfigPLS2r1fogS-9vKc0k0mDrwFuV2jqzXI9GLIzRzKc3HQDinQ8HfkdjhAoXucfSys81h/s1600/IMG_5017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUmHXquRNajVeWdVaRgv_O3xE_SkBHNEiB3rgxQQ_pf0jrfbE4UPEh64kpkLylJ-Va7XP56XfigPLS2r1fogS-9vKc0k0mDrwFuV2jqzXI9GLIzRzKc3HQDinQ8HfkdjhAoXucfSys81h/s320/IMG_5017.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I crawled right into her lap.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62docYosCYjvkDqcZYHGPjlpl3r7eOvc4-4bqVMrBo_oBMS_1J3yiOPCTeKLyhalOtFOSZAY2ILKj_3FpNQ2BNEh74ZfSUzi7MradL0gdy8DpSfiJgdvYrxa84rMWuH-FSslr0bvY1-et/s1600/IMG_5020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62docYosCYjvkDqcZYHGPjlpl3r7eOvc4-4bqVMrBo_oBMS_1J3yiOPCTeKLyhalOtFOSZAY2ILKj_3FpNQ2BNEh74ZfSUzi7MradL0gdy8DpSfiJgdvYrxa84rMWuH-FSslr0bvY1-et/s320/IMG_5020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I am always smiling!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EADBzdKJ1xTiMgd1NpdXna6wSSHB2sEiwbKk9cPIKa9CkuRM4lllthVRhkZhVb7Ez43B3q6b7Lt-y5QVTNiuafzRpR6rQW4XrzfakLlyTquRuIbG78-G3lKxC-wGUM1C0EwnU4NR7PI2/s1600/IMG_5021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EADBzdKJ1xTiMgd1NpdXna6wSSHB2sEiwbKk9cPIKa9CkuRM4lllthVRhkZhVb7Ez43B3q6b7Lt-y5QVTNiuafzRpR6rQW4XrzfakLlyTquRuIbG78-G3lKxC-wGUM1C0EwnU4NR7PI2/s320/IMG_5021.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Love at first sight!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10rUAQcVANcrLX7okEjA8aDatVrrJsp754QzwNClekWIWABzXq7-Aq1Pz8D7Nb41EFgGEg8gvfeybdaGKlIr_YeZmd07fnfG76Ov-C5rooKDbCkyx0Y8JdJtECWipV_QFLgN_Ay8oCsaN/s1600/IMG_5022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10rUAQcVANcrLX7okEjA8aDatVrrJsp754QzwNClekWIWABzXq7-Aq1Pz8D7Nb41EFgGEg8gvfeybdaGKlIr_YeZmd07fnfG76Ov-C5rooKDbCkyx0Y8JdJtECWipV_QFLgN_Ay8oCsaN/s320/IMG_5022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I even have already been permitted on the couch!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKI5t3A8Sf_n2SnEQKH-slfRZDe76FVL2Jyf12qw0KdCaNHP6vdeHUldZds7LYgOkD2KEHnQ_V5MX0Y7VhPeFuju-vnEoD0Cns8Np8OabzsO5IvH0f-aXDsRUhcDVKPHHIsVp19zFwgsn/s1600/IMG_5023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdKI5t3A8Sf_n2SnEQKH-slfRZDe76FVL2Jyf12qw0KdCaNHP6vdeHUldZds7LYgOkD2KEHnQ_V5MX0Y7VhPeFuju-vnEoD0Cns8Np8OabzsO5IvH0f-aXDsRUhcDVKPHHIsVp19zFwgsn/s320/IMG_5023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRck7xEXgYjGFScDAerPhHIn6u3CNrKNxGRQtuDG-48n42D9iChNEVBzNU96sMKU75fEIwbx-oiP2nAWoVsKSwZ4l-yRCZtjJZyu5uRSBu8o-qM4WLIlj1vt83hY30krXNf2HIepkAtRQT/s1600/IMG_5024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRck7xEXgYjGFScDAerPhHIn6u3CNrKNxGRQtuDG-48n42D9iChNEVBzNU96sMKU75fEIwbx-oiP2nAWoVsKSwZ4l-yRCZtjJZyu5uRSBu8o-qM4WLIlj1vt83hY30krXNf2HIepkAtRQT/s320/IMG_5024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QudsubCNQ0vgzth0SNO46it3MYsBxMQQ7HpOYNzrqb_FN5IZxe2AgL_FmHk1Nof21x2A_DReAoNqEhdMxJkqTQw2zyQAeVPS8ohl13napSd2RclgZpgVjtef_wO0V9Hup2R5c0yhMCsJ/s1600/IMG_5025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QudsubCNQ0vgzth0SNO46it3MYsBxMQQ7HpOYNzrqb_FN5IZxe2AgL_FmHk1Nof21x2A_DReAoNqEhdMxJkqTQw2zyQAeVPS8ohl13napSd2RclgZpgVjtef_wO0V9Hup2R5c0yhMCsJ/s320/IMG_5025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Paco will never replace Bailey, but he has added a new joy into our hearts!<br />
<br />
Check out the story on <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/TGIFwithKel/journal/1311911179/tgif-with-kel-07292011-ben-and-i-have-news">Nutrimirror</a>!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-40275674521393351532011-07-09T10:56:00.000-07:002011-07-09T10:56:58.659-07:00A Du is Doable!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6X15dAb6z6OHKOmRlzWWFZZGLjt70grLiX7ZfWWL8MNstssWMXb8jObHHNd2bRiNnNBDABwraQaETuWc4JESw-7LY_s0t-lG_EPPvbRo92E3CuTuzwpgHjOblsWR7s42zFkOJKHr7bYW/s1600/DSCN1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6X15dAb6z6OHKOmRlzWWFZZGLjt70grLiX7ZfWWL8MNstssWMXb8jObHHNd2bRiNnNBDABwraQaETuWc4JESw-7LY_s0t-lG_EPPvbRo92E3CuTuzwpgHjOblsWR7s42zFkOJKHr7bYW/s320/DSCN1498.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I feel like Wonder Woman right now!</i></span></div><br />
I did it!<br />
<br />
Today, just to see if it was even possible for me to do, Ben and I did a <i>practice</i> duathlon. The one we are looking to sign up for is a 5k, 18 miles bike, then another 5k. <br />
<br />
Today we did 2.3 miles, 17 miles bike, then 2.3 miles again!<br />
<br />
Fuel is going to be a HUGE consideration to achieve this. Fuel, and training, of course. <br />
<br />
There are some kinks that still need to be worked out, but I am so proud of myself! I know I can do this!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimiH7nJb9yWjXiiMjn-SGfW2STuM_bLE5yFyLUaRFaLtikxrXjObtZNiXpxv2qTNTpKMen0GSe7EIFnHI3ruVlMeVWygaUjxTGJTJkBAzJSA2RTdghQTZEpIfptsPlYuIflYvY400vx_5e/s1600/DSCN1499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimiH7nJb9yWjXiiMjn-SGfW2STuM_bLE5yFyLUaRFaLtikxrXjObtZNiXpxv2qTNTpKMen0GSe7EIFnHI3ruVlMeVWygaUjxTGJTJkBAzJSA2RTdghQTZEpIfptsPlYuIflYvY400vx_5e/s320/DSCN1499.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>A proud, happy, sweaty girl!</i></span></div><br />
How does one <i>re</i>fuel after that?<br />
<br />
A Smoothie in a Bowl!<br />
<br />
By no means is this my creation; <a href="http://www.katheats.com/">KATH</a> makes them all the time. <br />
<br />
I blended:<br />
<br />
A frozen banana<br />
1 scoop GNC vanilla protein powder<br />
1/2 tea vanilla extract<br />
1/4 cup old fashioned oatmeal<br />
The dregs of a frozen berry blend<br />
Bottom of the spinach barrel (I need to go shopping)<br />
8 ounces skim milk<br />
<br />
After it was blended, I poured it into a bowl. On top I added Ancient Grains Granola, sunflower butter and then melted coconut butter. If you like Magic Shell on your ice cream, coconut butter does the same thing when you melt it. (You can actually make your own magic shell at home by combining anything with melted coconut butter. It solidifies on contact.)<br />
<br />
I had the best picture planned; the granola and the sunflower butter sprinkled strategically on top. Once I added the coconut butter, the weight made a giant whirlpool in the middle of my smoothie! I watched it all get sucked into the vortex and my pretty picture was not to happen!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Kh2p8sSMLaGVQy-EVL312louYyMkkHMWJ3jNi3ZhhM4cu4wPC9zLnM7ohpaH1diGi4Fln6xO-gDH1CMRlcLtJX4GiZgvLbeMRL5NZeosTXd_vP44azdzmhNFybADTF32thpB3trcCnBT/s1600/DSCN1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Kh2p8sSMLaGVQy-EVL312louYyMkkHMWJ3jNi3ZhhM4cu4wPC9zLnM7ohpaH1diGi4Fln6xO-gDH1CMRlcLtJX4GiZgvLbeMRL5NZeosTXd_vP44azdzmhNFybADTF32thpB3trcCnBT/s320/DSCN1501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>You can see a hint of granola here.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3RBK9aCA8xQxzuZ5Ty32aZ98G3aRzK2GLQBagxNYkqdbBzj1ytr6dAHnm7XvzF2lGYmfW4pJZRlflvGbwqK5w6QgQGuLZRHEBxskoCOjOjdhB_knI8D_PExvkiIxOIh_P6x6DKEWaRZD/s1600/DSCN1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3RBK9aCA8xQxzuZ5Ty32aZ98G3aRzK2GLQBagxNYkqdbBzj1ytr6dAHnm7XvzF2lGYmfW4pJZRlflvGbwqK5w6QgQGuLZRHEBxskoCOjOjdhB_knI8D_PExvkiIxOIh_P6x6DKEWaRZD/s320/DSCN1503.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>There is some SERIOUSLY tasty goodness in those granola clumps!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is not a breakfast I would have every day. It was almost 800 calories! I had torched some serious calories during my duathlon, so today it works!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Time to clean the house (actually I think Ben may already be hard at work doing that), hit the showers and head to the grocery store.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">We are having a pizza party here tonight!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a great Saturday!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Kel</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-13024043973796326722011-07-04T11:14:00.000-07:002011-07-04T11:14:36.486-07:00Where Your Eyes Go, So Goes the BikeWhen I got my bike two years ago, one of the first things Ben taught me was about cadence. <br />
<br />
Essentially, cadence is maintaining the same number of revolutions per minute. Sometimes, when you are going up a hill, for example, you need to upshift to a higher gear to maintain your cadence. Conversely, going down the other side of aforementioned hill, you downshift.<br />
<br />
I used to marvel as I watched Ben ride. He didn't have to think; he knew instinctively when to upshift and to downshift.<br />
<br />
I took a motorcycle class a few years ago. They taught us that when you are negotiating a turn, you need to look where you want to go. If you spend time looking down at the ground, guess where your motorcycle will end up?<br />
<br />
Same is true on a bicycle. I used to have to remind myself of this all the time.<br />
<br />
Today on our ride, I found no thoughts in my head of upshifting or downshifting, or knowing where to look. It was if I was riding by instinct.<br />
<br />
I have arrived.<br />
<br />
33 miles today, bringing this weekend's total mileage walking and riding to 90 miles. <br />
<br />
Wow.<br />
<br />
That is a lot of time for me to think!<br />
<br />
I mention the above riding tips, because as I rode today, I did think about how this relates to a healthy journey.<br />
<br />
There are times in your life when you are cruising along; you have hit your stride. Along comes a hill. Maybe that hill is a barbecue, or perhaps it is a stressful event at work that you would normally eat your way through. (<i>Been there, done that.) </i> There are times when you need to dig a little deeper, do a little more planning; you need to know when to upshift.<br />
<br />
You need to keep your eyes on the road, and the health that lies ahead of you. If you take your eyes off that healthy prize, you end up, just as on the bike, on the pavement. Sometimes you stay there long enough because you are too hurt to get up. Don't bet yourself up about it, get up, and get back on the trail.<br />
<br />
Learning to maintain your cadence on a healthy journey comes with time. You learn to fuel yourself throughout the day so that you never get famished. You learn to have snacks at the ready to stave off the call of the vending machine or the cafe at work. Believe me, those rice krispie treats and Special K bars know my name; I have just learned to tell them to shut up!<br />
<br />
You will get there over time; make small changes today that will make big changes in the end.<br />
<br />
After our ride today, I made this amazing lunch. Please do try it!<br />
<br />
I got this idea from <a href="http://framed-mylifeonepictureatatime.blogspot.com/2011/06/open-face-sandwiches-with-avocado-egg.html?showComment=1309054806052#c4509826622100406979">here</a>. Her picture is far lovelier than mine! I imagine mine was just as delicious, however.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj3HmyfoSZ6VX9U5SHj8pcaS9KDDzPkgeHtSL3anughkVMK0ow0ySdmZQQ8HpwJBB3u9E9fhYz1hZvLN9kGqoTy844Fjkux8LqqO6pbVon4blDcNx5d6GrQyXZGwAc4n0D7Gl7CuCxFLq/s1600/DSCN1474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj3HmyfoSZ6VX9U5SHj8pcaS9KDDzPkgeHtSL3anughkVMK0ow0ySdmZQQ8HpwJBB3u9E9fhYz1hZvLN9kGqoTy844Fjkux8LqqO6pbVon4blDcNx5d6GrQyXZGwAc4n0D7Gl7CuCxFLq/s320/DSCN1474.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Watermelon was a perfect dessert!</i></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJw6OHWkyQ6aZzlxJrbpgVZAlpjI0FlW8tw_ntt2nre6HjZmaIT8ErQvamUOSFFDf56R1VHrV8sFLKdDemPu6QN5pB_eZojM1TobHvP1jB_Lyz-Nxh_ILTunpdwbPA2v9x-C2Gv53pZex8/s1600/DSCN1476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJw6OHWkyQ6aZzlxJrbpgVZAlpjI0FlW8tw_ntt2nre6HjZmaIT8ErQvamUOSFFDf56R1VHrV8sFLKdDemPu6QN5pB_eZojM1TobHvP1jB_Lyz-Nxh_ILTunpdwbPA2v9x-C2Gv53pZex8/s320/DSCN1476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The creaminess of the avocado and the scrambled egg with the saltiness of the salmon - BRILLIANT!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope you will try this, and to encourage you to do so, here are the stats:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=691557" /></a><br />
<br />
The toast was made from Great Harvest High 5 Fiber; that an the avocado accounted for 33% of my fiber needs today!<br />
<br />
And, hello, look at that iron!<br />
<br />
Off to the kitchen to prepare the rest of the items for the barbecue I am attending today.<br />
<br />
Happy 4th!<br />
<br />
KelKelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-15065343340938453672011-07-03T18:46:00.000-07:002011-07-03T18:46:22.517-07:00How to Use Up a Lot of Calories!Thought I forgot about you, didn't you?<br />
<br />
Nope, just had some errands to run after my walk this afternoon. I also started <a href="http://melissabakes.com/?p=2636">my cupcakes</a> that I am bringing to a barbecue tomorrow. Didn't sit down to dinner til much later than usual.<br />
<br />
If you ask me how many calories are in this dinner, I don't know if I will be able to answer that. Sure, I logged it, but I may be WAY off on the pork rib recipe! I am normally good at getting the recipe together, but this time the selection of which country pork rib to pick threw me off and as to how much. I know uncooked it was 2.75 pounds of ribs, but that included the bones and the fat. Anyways, these ribs could be anywhere from 300 calories to 500 calories. Regardless, they were delicious!<br />
<br />
Earlier this year, I knew I wanted to make country pork ribs for Superbowl Sunday. I scoured the internet and landed on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Maple-Country-Style-Ribs/Detail.aspx">this recipe.</a> They are so easy! You toss everything in the crockpot and you are done! Whether for a cold January night or a steamy July day, they are terrific. Note on the recipe - use a LOT more liquid and seasonings than called for. I think I triple it. You will still think you don't have enough but the, um, pork fat tends to do a little basting of its own!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpuwqfC269fphl0ssILMWJAttLkYtQi1IFXwovr8mPbN_S1i7ifnh2SqD4RYF58jri0euPrjyJ4VeZNXbkRfPeyt2RRkRRvj55fuNoWELfZBaf6YC5dEWER6P1dMxJXbav-2uFX_xyqU8/s1600/DSCN1472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpuwqfC269fphl0ssILMWJAttLkYtQi1IFXwovr8mPbN_S1i7ifnh2SqD4RYF58jri0euPrjyJ4VeZNXbkRfPeyt2RRkRRvj55fuNoWELfZBaf6YC5dEWER6P1dMxJXbav-2uFX_xyqU8/s320/DSCN1472.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I forced TJ to eat outside just so I could take the picture with outdoor lighting!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">I wish I could tell you that the ribs stole the show, or that my sauteed greens from my CSA box this week were the hit, but that would be a lie. The show-stealer? The darned boxed cornbread from Costco!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3zbVr-gT1i1lpGsvyt6LBWdGVOSaNHOoXXMqu76gnsiL4nHItHN-t-2AkzVDjM52IIsgba19cojvGidOcg0QX59W8ym7eeFPXtvjWhFafsmO4o41IhdmaYNJxgl4uV0DuLq2VzUbbJ3_4/s1600/DSCN1471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3zbVr-gT1i1lpGsvyt6LBWdGVOSaNHOoXXMqu76gnsiL4nHItHN-t-2AkzVDjM52IIsgba19cojvGidOcg0QX59W8ym7eeFPXtvjWhFafsmO4o41IhdmaYNJxgl4uV0DuLq2VzUbbJ3_4/s320/DSCN1471.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>There are real corn kernels in there!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have a corn bread recipe I really enjoy, but have to tell you - this is amazing. Moist, flavorful, and this time I made it with buttermilk instead of plain milk. Heaven. 210 calories of processed food, but still good. Not something I eat every day or even once a month. I will stop defending myself if you will quit judging me. It is good stuff!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The greens - sauteed in a little olive oil with some red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lemon at the end.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Beer by Surly - a local brewing company. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The way to wrap up a busy, active day!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Kitchen is a mess, laundry needs to be folded, but I still have half a beer left.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I think I will sit back and r e l a x. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Goodnight!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-60994862146462175422011-07-03T13:56:00.000-07:002011-07-03T13:56:10.699-07:004 hours 37 minutes 6 secondsI went on a 17 mile training walk today. 17.32 miles to be exact; you know how I am able getting full credit.<br />
<br />
It is part of the training for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for the Cure. I don't follow the documented training schedule for a walker. With 7 weeks until the event, I am feeling pretty good and quite strong.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYv4MuBDI81zDq-eqtzDFpC3KnBYUQ1cobezIRIktXmQ-o86KViIazVk1CZTYordzYjSSdyWdlMqkAhh18Y7hMnlCnWp6PYUbiKfe7X2qiLvfCpZ3TpWPrh9Ls0w07Koq6QWUdX8mXPul/s1600/DSCN1469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYv4MuBDI81zDq-eqtzDFpC3KnBYUQ1cobezIRIktXmQ-o86KViIazVk1CZTYordzYjSSdyWdlMqkAhh18Y7hMnlCnWp6PYUbiKfe7X2qiLvfCpZ3TpWPrh9Ls0w07Koq6QWUdX8mXPul/s320/DSCN1469.JPG" width="190" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Geared up and NOT ready to go.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">My legs felt fine after the bike ride yesterday. I <strike>lamented </strike> <strike>complained</strike> whined to Ben that it was not the distance I was concerned with; it is just so boring!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I headed out determined to make the best of it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvrk1f7NoII3XAnGu0KtlhHs5NnGqlV4xTj7Tly2ZeprhvN1v7YuPKvcAjUsqNjljkVyDYVAZKRoNhUM8DXZ_ni47YKFwnBmL89nOB8Tl1ltG0riZnOL0DYznF7alKvtO1XtL9huz1UEA/s1600/DSCN1470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvrk1f7NoII3XAnGu0KtlhHs5NnGqlV4xTj7Tly2ZeprhvN1v7YuPKvcAjUsqNjljkVyDYVAZKRoNhUM8DXZ_ni47YKFwnBmL89nOB8Tl1ltG0riZnOL0DYznF7alKvtO1XtL9huz1UEA/s320/DSCN1470.JPG" width="156" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Packed and on my way!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">What's in the pack you ask?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">A large bottle of water, my garage door opener, sunscreen, chapstick, a peeled orange, a banana, 2 cheese sticks, a granola bar, some spare change and a whole lot of <i>belief in myself.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">That's right. Sometimes you have to pack a belief in yourself in your bag and take it with you. At the very least, keep it in your heart.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">To keep myself entertained, I watched my Garmin, and watched the miles pass. Kind of like watching paint dry, you know? I challenged myself to not let my pace decrease as I went up inclines, and marveled at, how after I re<i>fueled, </i>I was able to pick up the pace.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I watched as cyclists sped past me, and families all set out. I chatted with a little girl as she told me she and her grandpa were racing me. (They won the race.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After 12.4 miles were done, I headed into <i>Pit Stop 3.</i> I have various gas station/convenience stores along the way that I stop, grab some water, pee, and text Ben to keep him posted of my progress.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In this particular store, the clerk asked me "Getting in a good workout today?"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"I am training for The 3 Day" I explained. "I am doing 17 miles today and I have 5.8 to go."</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Good luck with that!" she said, rolling her eyes. "I could <i>never</i> do that."</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Sure you could!" I replied. I paid for my water, and left.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I took my <i>belief</i> out of my bag, looked at it for a bit and I held it tight. The next 5.8 miles flew by.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I thought about this girl, and the truth is, she couldn't do what I was doing at this moment in time. She didn't believe in herself enough. She will never be able to accomplish this, or any task she sees as a lofty goal, until she is convinced she <b>can do it</b>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I thought about things in my own past that had held me back. The doubts, the negative self talk that has seemed to disappear over the last few years. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Over 7 years ago, I believed I could be healthy. I had gastric bypass surgery as my <i>first step/last attempt</i> to make it happen. I had to believe that it was going to work. More importantly, I had to believe that I was going to make it work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">5 years ago I finally believed I deserved happiness. I had to make some extremely painful decisions and choices to make it happen. Today, I am happier than I ever dreamt possible.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">5 years ago I heard a radio ad for the 3 Day Walk and thought "I can do that." I made it happen.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The very moment you say <i>I cannot do that</i> is like a nail in a coffin. You are burying a belief in yourself that would otherwise allow you to make it happen.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As I continued to walk, I thought about the power of daydreaming. <a href="http://serenityswamp.blogspot.com/">Someone</a> very close and wise to me told me yesterday to daydream. This person has never given me bad advice yet, so I took some time to daydream today. After all, what is a daydream but perhaps the first step in believing that something truly CAN happen?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here is what I thought about the rest of my walk.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I <i>believe </i><a href="http://serenityswamp.blogspot.com/">Karyn</a>, <a href="http://countrytart.blogspot.com/">Lynn</a> and I will have a radio show. We even have a name ready to go. We just need to get the pieces of the puzzle together to make this happen. These ladies have an energy that is contagious; I have been so fortunate to be able to meet them. If you have met them virtually before, you know what I am talking about. Now take that energy and multiply it. In person, their health, confidence, energy and a <i>belief in themselves </i>makes them glow. I <i>believe</i> the 3 of us can make others laugh, can share some thoughts about balance, and can have a ball doing it. (There ladies - it is in print. Let's get that skype call going!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I <i>believe </i>that food is fuel. I believe it is up to <i>me</i>, or an army of mes, to get this message out there. You need to fuel your body with the best quality fuel available. I believe that fresh, minimally processed is best. That being said, I also believe in your right to choose to eat what you want. I credit my granola bars today for kicking my butt into a higher gear around miles 10-13! I will use the <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/TGIFwithKel/journal/1309484778/tgif-with-kel-07012011-declare-your-independence">Nutrimirror </a>column, this blog, the radio show and whatever media necessary to get this message out there. Food is not your enemy. Not believing in YOU is an enemy of your success.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I <i>believe</i> I can make a better, tastier granola bar than the processed one I had today. Experimentation and details of success/failure coming soon! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I <i>believe in you. </i>I think more than anything sometimes others just need to hear it over and over, before they believe it themselves. It took me a long time to believe in myself; others took the time and effort to believe in me, and now it is my turn to <i>Pay it Forward.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">It amazes me how after a long workout, such as yesterday's ride or the walk today, I have thoughts that NEED to come out. It is obvious that I do a lot of thinking when I have no one to talk to for long periods of time!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">By the way, dinner is cooking as we speak. It was so nice to smell the aroma when I walked into the kitchen after my walk. Will be back later to share details of what I planned to eat knowing I would have the calories for it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you are enjoying a wonderful Sunday!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Kel</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
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</i></span></div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-18484911692029578462011-07-02T12:11:00.000-07:002011-07-02T12:11:50.341-07:00Blue Skies Nothing But Blue Skies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELqbSogHTwCEBHr0fl5wz8V9pbhWlrvV0IFmdbP3glOWEnQ2wwZMYaLDeAs5ZiH4dif2g8nr7QFsqZHkcxHHtRDkpk8Q6bP1Vq1WsT8ysLNwmF_tmLcau7cFbjkOuyxv4ykOzqMur26g6/s1600/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELqbSogHTwCEBHr0fl5wz8V9pbhWlrvV0IFmdbP3glOWEnQ2wwZMYaLDeAs5ZiH4dif2g8nr7QFsqZHkcxHHtRDkpk8Q6bP1Vq1WsT8ysLNwmF_tmLcau7cFbjkOuyxv4ykOzqMur26g6/s320/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The sky as it looked as we headed out on our adventure.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">What an absolutely spectacular day we are having in MN today! I am not going to say we <i>deserve </i>this weather; after all, the flowers are blooming and the grass is lush green from all of the rain we have had. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">But today we shall enjoy nothing but blue skies.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I mean this not just as it pertains to the weather. I mean my attitude. Today I did something I never have done before. I will get to that.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">If I were to take you back 10 years ago, a day like this would not have meant that I could take advantage of it for some outdoor activity; instead, I likely was headed indoors to some mall or just sitting on the couch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As we climbed into our bike saddles today, I took a deep breath. I am so thankful that I now live a healthy life.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I already knew we would be riding the trail to the end. This was a foregone conclusion in my mind. As stated earlier, the weather and <i>time</i> have not been optimal for a long ride. Today we had both.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The end of the trail is a 33 mile round trip ride. Ben and I have done this several times. The Gateway Trail is spectacular for riding, as all of the other riders on the trail today will tell you. Yes, some get cranky when you pass them, but I did let you know I was coming! It was very busy on the trail today, and it is so great to see families out there taking advantage of the trail and the weather.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">When we reached trails end, I told Ben that today I wanted to go further. I wanted 40 miles.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Go back to 10 years ago; was this the same woman? Clearly, the answer <i>to me at least </i>is no. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I wanted 40 miles because it is something I had never done before. To some reading this, perhaps you are thinking <i>that is nothing.</i> Others, you are thinking <i>I get tired <u>driving</u> 40 miles. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ben and I talked about how to complete 40 miles, and then headed back. We decided that when we reached the spot I normally refer to as <i>my happy place</i> we would keep riding the trail and then return to the happy place to head home.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf45vwWLU9rm2XQ84VzVsCQbvEHdsFv1dNUy0297BQO5W9qDgyOMpu96BGBDxqLjuEDmuExvPK3DyRQrAYwpweCZm8Dl6MLA8vCagTqS_4lcUGmXsuM0-XirJD_CCfSG8LLWkRDM0UGUn/s1600/photo+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf45vwWLU9rm2XQ84VzVsCQbvEHdsFv1dNUy0297BQO5W9qDgyOMpu96BGBDxqLjuEDmuExvPK3DyRQrAYwpweCZm8Dl6MLA8vCagTqS_4lcUGmXsuM0-XirJD_CCfSG8LLWkRDM0UGUn/s320/photo+%25289%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>My happy place; this sign means it is an easy 2.5 miles until we are home.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Please note: this is the happy place on the bike. Not so much when walking!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thank goodness for my Garmin. I told Ben I wanted to go 40 miles, but no further. Let's not be crazy now!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As we passed my happy place and kept going west on the Gateway (where we would normally turn to head home) we were in relatively unchartered territory. I have walked this part of the trail a few times, but Ben and I had been on there only once before. That time was known as the Great Inch Worm Disaster of 2009. (They were hanging everywhere and at one point were all over me. I jumped off the bike and danced as he swatted them off. Ew.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As it is no longer inch worm season, we were in good shape. Little did I realize we were headed down a very slight decline. I realized it when we were on the return home; it is a very slight, painful incline!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As we hit my happy place and headed the 2.5 miles home, I thought about how good I felt. I searched my brain for the right word. Alive, energetic, happy...none of them quite cut it. I settled on <i>vibrant. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Vibrant: </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 11px;"><i>pulsating with life, vigor, or activity. </i>Today it was all that and more!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">As we rounded the last turn, I looked down at my Garmin and saw the 40.57 miles. I was overwhelmed with emotion. Ben no doubt thought I was injured or something, and all I could say was <i>I did it.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRCphFNoLBLVuhplTC4s-DzHyQvzloe7KMV8yE3lMPbSv4-5dnwFXy2cief91oduNaUw_NrlsOmFQ-tUbQdZBWP5IAuWlvjoWVF1f0iD8A1PNkpOdKXezchi4JRstQhzEJfkbq9BnTUPo/s1600/DSCN1465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRCphFNoLBLVuhplTC4s-DzHyQvzloe7KMV8yE3lMPbSv4-5dnwFXy2cief91oduNaUw_NrlsOmFQ-tUbQdZBWP5IAuWlvjoWVF1f0iD8A1PNkpOdKXezchi4JRstQhzEJfkbq9BnTUPo/s320/DSCN1465.JPG" width="215" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">40.57 miles. Done and Dusted!</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwona9DjREEFwMa8o-22hK9k6Kri80Ak0IMpAF95GlsO5W0w-3u7_MiQkUKO4UErQTypUoq8eXSphaQIBjCdk7G0cSnzuDft-15suy22VlUR_PxdZFIZFKJX8Jz1XjcXU7Nsk7Ux5VY_x/s1600/DSCN1466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwona9DjREEFwMa8o-22hK9k6Kri80Ak0IMpAF95GlsO5W0w-3u7_MiQkUKO4UErQTypUoq8eXSphaQIBjCdk7G0cSnzuDft-15suy22VlUR_PxdZFIZFKJX8Jz1XjcXU7Nsk7Ux5VY_x/s320/DSCN1466.JPG" width="263" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">An overwhelming happiness! Flower courtesy of Ben around mile 10.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Over on <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/userhome.php">Nutrimirror</a>, we call these moments a NSV, or non-scale victory. I have no scale victories at all. I don't measure myself as a success or failure because of what the scale says. The victory for me today was truly that <i>I did not give a shit what the scale said; at this moment I am the healthiest, most vibrant person I have ever been in 45 years. </i>This moment was never going to be defined by the number on the scale. I won't recall this ride today and think, oh, <i>this is how much I weighed when I did it.</i> That is a first. This experiment, the journey of this year is working.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, what do you do after you ride 40+ miles. You EAT!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I did not eat with reckless abandon, but did eat what I had been thinking of for the final 15 miles or so of the ride.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a cornmeal pancake with sauteed spinach and an egg. Don't forget the bacon. That I DID earn.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsyPMGtSVWwbWw5uSNvtgSDqt8SdE57sX-IYEPDMoLqm3UsP34VqwmS0Z7DqEJse0cmc9Q9aHCOpIdyc9MWmrWTDO9L2vz6cqZ-Q-y7GEytGCKSwruq3hhKS2QwRAF5C8df4srM1w5t2e/s1600/DSCN1467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsyPMGtSVWwbWw5uSNvtgSDqt8SdE57sX-IYEPDMoLqm3UsP34VqwmS0Z7DqEJse0cmc9Q9aHCOpIdyc9MWmrWTDO9L2vz6cqZ-Q-y7GEytGCKSwruq3hhKS2QwRAF5C8df4srM1w5t2e/s320/DSCN1467.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Don't be hatin' on my bacon. I just burned almost 2000 calories!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here is my wish for you; I wish that anyone reading this at this moment know the feeling of vibrancy. I wish that you know how it feels to not care if you are up a pound or down a pound. I wish that you know what it feels like to look at food as fuel, yet still be able to enjoy every bite you eat without guilt. I wish you health, I wish you happiness, and my mission is to make sure this wish becomes reality.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Now that this is typed, and these words are out of my head, I can relax. I shall head up to my shower on my wobbly legs and with burning crotch (40 miles ain't easy on female parts and pieces) and an energy I have never before felt.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a fabulous Saturday!</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-56992381269195411102011-07-01T17:46:00.000-07:002011-07-01T17:46:01.243-07:00Oh This Was Good!Now THIS is how to make potato salad. Designed to be eaten warm, and perfect for a summer barbecue. Not a bit of mayonnaise in sight!<br />
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No blog to link you to; I actually received this recipe in an email from <a href="http://www.sabaibodytemple.com/">Sabai Body Temple</a>, where I have had two massages recently. Hey, any Temple that would send me a recipe like this deserves a third visit!<br />
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This is their recipe for Rocket Potatoes. Make it this July 4th!<br />
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I didn't have the grainy mustard so I used Grey Poupon. White wine vinegar made a great stand in for the sherry wine vinegar. Red skinned potatoes were perfect!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYCM1K9i9opwPQseUdklX0f8HQD1AkQymfHT9zAkFs_PewTwKsUv7NmhbeiPmsX4RH0STcaHesIrw_CliXSPCjWL5mMmT7BlGNBF8f4n60bsKCZN75InhoBGGn6foUcpICt_gpysKw_P5/s1600/DSCN1464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYCM1K9i9opwPQseUdklX0f8HQD1AkQymfHT9zAkFs_PewTwKsUv7NmhbeiPmsX4RH0STcaHesIrw_CliXSPCjWL5mMmT7BlGNBF8f4n60bsKCZN75InhoBGGn6foUcpICt_gpysKw_P5/s320/DSCN1464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Simply Awesome!</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"></span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="color: #911119; font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Recipe Box</span></strong></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #911119; font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Warm Potato Salad with Arugula - serves 12</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #911119; font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Known as "Rocket" in my end of the world. Rocket Potato Salad sounds pretty cool, doesn't it?</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">3lb white potatoes - scrubbed</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1/4 c plus 3 Tb extra-virgin olive oil</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">salt and fresh pepper</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">2 Tb grainy mustard</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1 1/2 Tb sherry vinegar</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">5 oz baby arugula</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Preheat the oven to 425 F. Cut the potatoes into 1/2 inch wedges. Scatter onto two large rimmed baking sheets. Drizzle with 3Tb olive oil and toss until coated. Season with s/p and roast for about 25min. until golden and crisp. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining olive oil with mustard and vinegar; season with s/p. In a large serving bowl, toss the potatoes with the onions and arugula. Top with dressing - toss again and serve. I've also done this with caramalised onions which is a yummy sweet contrast to the peppery Rocket.</span></span></i></b></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=690404" /></a>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-49554364973688240072011-06-26T18:25:00.000-07:002011-06-26T18:25:21.699-07:00The First of the Strawberry CreationsWhere did the day go?<br />
<br />
I know where it went; I did not get out of bed until 8:30. I spent some time cleaning and slicing strawberries, then made breakfast.<br />
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By the time the dishes were done, I had putzed around on the internet for a while, and I realized just how lazy I was being, it was 11:30! I had walking to do!<br />
<br />
I am training for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for a Cure. You walk 60 miles in 3 days, an average of 20 miles a day. Today, I needed to walk 14.<br />
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4 hours. Gone.<br />
<br />
I know that The Universe will reward me in some way shape or form. Hopefully by allowing me to complete the 3 Day injury and pain free!<br />
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Today was not pain free; word to the wise. Do not pick strawberries then walk 14 miles. I could barely take my shoes off when I was done!<br />
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By the time I got home, cleaned up, a smoothie made and enjoyed, I still had a trip to the grocery store. Despite my best intentions, it was 5:30 before I got home from the store.<br />
<br />
As easy as it would have been to make the strawberry arugula salad I planned on yesterday, I needed something with a lot more protein for dinner. A rotisserie chicken and lots of greens later, a salad was planned.<br />
<br />
So, what did I make?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1837,147170-251204,00.html">This</a> strawberry rhubarb crisp!<br />
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I made a few changes. I used 3 cups of rhubarb, 3 cups of strawberries, and I only made half the crisp. Most crisps have too much crisps anyway.<br />
<br />
Ha! That was funny. I kill myself sometimes.<br />
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The crisp is my favorite part, but I only had 1/2 cup of brown sugar left. C'est la vie. Half the crisp it was!<br />
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I probably should taste it before I finish this post, but I need to finish this post before I taste it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdavOgcJ9NdAbP5krzSGAYCZZeKWrl7RG37RB8QhqjQoV_Wre6RaTcSCqJ6Y0hWVwKKbsCANkjl63nFvgNcRbI2yKcW35j_Bk49Pr-G6kOzAy-1SAbKMY9wEnwczOOjU8UDHBZTOBdd3XF/s1600/DSCN1462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdavOgcJ9NdAbP5krzSGAYCZZeKWrl7RG37RB8QhqjQoV_Wre6RaTcSCqJ6Y0hWVwKKbsCANkjl63nFvgNcRbI2yKcW35j_Bk49Pr-G6kOzAy-1SAbKMY9wEnwczOOjU8UDHBZTOBdd3XF/s320/DSCN1462.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The approximate region my spoon will dive into shortly!</i></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlWveP4-g8Z6-4w1R3AFUUFBQL-FatFNJDyBMc3t0AR1DL9bQstes1yG9If2rdkyhVjraujVuADmCbOgV3cLH5oHbcsNd2Fsm8yjXr_A7zJ2ndEntTikfX4hwQVw-TxT6qka3fkOMryd_/s1600/DSCN1460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlWveP4-g8Z6-4w1R3AFUUFBQL-FatFNJDyBMc3t0AR1DL9bQstes1yG9If2rdkyhVjraujVuADmCbOgV3cLH5oHbcsNd2Fsm8yjXr_A7zJ2ndEntTikfX4hwQVw-TxT6qka3fkOMryd_/s320/DSCN1460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Such a lovely color! Wish you could smell this!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are some stats!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=688149" /></a><br />
<br />
Enjoy!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-1982330026118880802011-06-25T19:02:00.000-07:002011-06-25T19:02:44.723-07:00The Strawberry Mother Load!My friend Bonnie was kind enough to invite me over to her house today to pick strawberries...and pick we did!<br />
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TJ (my 13 year old) came with; he was more interested in investigating everything on her property and asking a ton of questions! Bonnie was great with him, and I laughed when at one point she left TJ speechless. A rarity indeed!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2dBVEyihlL3CmvWPljpHC4_bwV_adwmPZhB7aUpnEeEgw1fmUhyphenhyphenmpwdyysKSL8AExhb7rvnybJHMeva3YM_XxEGdyny4RoNqF5xLg5Ma1nvETZLcJ6y-v3L1YJhNiIK4k6oKUJjdILVU/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2dBVEyihlL3CmvWPljpHC4_bwV_adwmPZhB7aUpnEeEgw1fmUhyphenhyphenmpwdyysKSL8AExhb7rvnybJHMeva3YM_XxEGdyny4RoNqF5xLg5Ma1nvETZLcJ6y-v3L1YJhNiIK4k6oKUJjdILVU/s320/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>TJ when he wasn't chasing a cat, hitting at things with a stick or cutting rhubarb!</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I didn't know that with our strawberries we would also be bringing home a ton of freshly cut rhubarb! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkC-x669F4TiqM-AtGPTi7hIh2gQRbrfggKXJy2lKJrWO-qUM_-XZwCPOTwIsvxSnnWintjqWYSAjYkfzPjBsEkXmrhHB5TNCRWv4xsi38ZHBxw0l3QGQ-YrHqvq5p0Ij17FdHdv5bWOjk/s1600/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkC-x669F4TiqM-AtGPTi7hIh2gQRbrfggKXJy2lKJrWO-qUM_-XZwCPOTwIsvxSnnWintjqWYSAjYkfzPjBsEkXmrhHB5TNCRWv4xsi38ZHBxw0l3QGQ-YrHqvq5p0Ij17FdHdv5bWOjk/s320/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The berries awaiting their bath and prep.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Call me crazy, but I think I may be spending tomorrow in the kitchen with these babies!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some of these berries will be used to make an appearance in <a href="http://markbittman.com/balsamic-strawberries-with-arugula">this salad</a> courtesy of Mark Bittman. Note to self: pick up more arugula tomorrow! I was going to make kale salad to go with tomorrow night's dinner, but think I want to make this instead! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some will be hulled and frozen; I will use those to make our morning smoothies. I am so hooked on smoothies for breakfast! I use all frozen fruit and these will be great combined with frozen banana, protein powder, almond milk, and spinach. Not all of the frozen ones will be used for smoothies; it will be nice to take some out of the freezer and whip up a quick strawberry shortcake when the berries are no longer local and in season.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some of these berries and the rhubarb will go into a pie. I learned tonight that Ben loves strawberry rhubarb pie. I will need to spoil him with one tomorrow. Can't wait to try <a href="http://answersencroute.blogspot.com/2011/05/strawberry-rhubarb-pie.html">this recipe</a> I found on <a href="http://www.tastespotting.com/">Tastespotting!</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also want to make an ice cream; I have what I refer to as the Ice Cream Bible, known more commonly as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Scoop-Sorbets-Granitas-Accompaniments/dp/158008219X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309053206&sr=8-1"><i>The Perfect Scoop </i>by David Lebovitz.</a> If you love making your own ice cream, get this book! I am torn between a frozen strawberry yogurt or a Strawberry Sour Cream Ice cream. There is even a recipe for strawberry rhubarb sorbet!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can tell, I am excited about these berries! Honestly, I am most looking forward to having some fresh with breakfast tomorrow. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope you all had a wonderful Saturday and I hope to come back tomorrow to share some of these creations!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kel</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
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</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-43661601058944216642011-06-24T18:58:00.000-07:002011-06-24T18:58:22.159-07:00Need to use up that CSA?I have purchased shares in a CSA through work. What's a CSA you say?<br />
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Community Supported Agriculture!<br />
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We get a box of organic veggies every week from now until October. It is like a treasure chest of goodies!<br />
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This week we got radishes, carrots, arugula, green onions, red lettuce, butter lettuce, cilantro, parsley, rainbow swiss chard, kale and beets.<br />
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The big question becomes what shall I prepare?<br />
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The greens were easy; the lettuces got washed, dried, and made into salads for Ben and me today for lunch. I added the radishes and some carrots along with some other vegetables I had from the fridge.<br />
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The kale is such an easy choice; I am making my favorite <a href="http://www.truefoodkitchen.com/recipes/tuscan-kale-salad.php">Tuscan Kale salad</a> from True Foods in Arizona. Nothing better than this!<br />
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The cilantro will go into avocado salsa. I just chopped up a couple of avocados, cut up a couple of tomatoes, add fine dice of red onion, a jalapeno, juice from one lime, and chopped cilantro. Delicious on a salad with some black beans tossed in too, or of course with chips. Tasty with a margarita, too!<br />
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The beets. I didn't even have to think about it! I immediately knew what I wanted to make. No recipe to follow, but it came out great!<br />
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Pizza, of course! Specifically, Beet and goat cheese pizza with arugula salad.<br />
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When I came home last night, I scrubbed the beets, coated with a little olive oil, and wrapped in foil. I cooked at 375 degrees for about an hour. Let them cool, and then the skins peel right off. I am a wimp by the way; I wear gloves when I handle them! They were ready to use tonight.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.savoringthethyme.com/2011/02/guest-post-by-shaina-olmanson-from-food-for-my-family-presents-no-fail-pizza-crust-and-family-pizza-night/">pizza crust</a> is one I have shared before; it is absolutely delicious. Make it with white flour, wheat flour, wheat pastry flour; use whatever flour you want! Just make it!<br />
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After work today, I headed to my favorite cheese shop, Surdyks; this happens to be attached to my favorite wine shop! I sampled a couple of cheeses until I find the right goat cheese. I wanted a semisoft and chose one from Spain.<br />
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Make the above dough, and drizzle with a little olive oil. Slice the beets and place on the dough. Cut, rather break up the goat cheese and scatter on the pizza. I added some sliced green onion too.<br />
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I baked at 450 degrees for about 12 minutes.<br />
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In the meantime, I tossed the arugula in a tablespoon or so of olive oil and a pinch of salt.<br />
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When the pizza came out of the oven we sliced it, then topped it with the salad.<br />
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Here is the outcome!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_mVcxQZSPjJKOwB-NXtnFtG4QQgqJ_5OuEQEV2rBnuJbxegQEmnUMeuP9IaO5o3TQ6t1w2WRhiiu2tahvO7vMY4n6i4fJEHiI4x2V87T8yP8FzCKvlQqf2i3pS_HDW5JNCqPaugNkXXu/s1600/DSCN1441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_mVcxQZSPjJKOwB-NXtnFtG4QQgqJ_5OuEQEV2rBnuJbxegQEmnUMeuP9IaO5o3TQ6t1w2WRhiiu2tahvO7vMY4n6i4fJEHiI4x2V87T8yP8FzCKvlQqf2i3pS_HDW5JNCqPaugNkXXu/s320/DSCN1441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Not thrilled with the lighting in my kitchen!</i></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToFYJFKB8R0oJwd9iAr-ul9nSMyCcB9OvptrYvOHROWMXN7cL98AjRHq2Rpv2J3VwBWE8vt19fjqOCFJr_CR3MAC31gero5rXw2SL2Dzy4RO_aS3fmoRx4i7nGpZQ2QYRj5l_9aAaCUHP/s1600/DSCN1444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToFYJFKB8R0oJwd9iAr-ul9nSMyCcB9OvptrYvOHROWMXN7cL98AjRHq2Rpv2J3VwBWE8vt19fjqOCFJr_CR3MAC31gero5rXw2SL2Dzy4RO_aS3fmoRx4i7nGpZQ2QYRj5l_9aAaCUHP/s320/DSCN1444.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>We dined on the "veranda" tonight.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was so good! In one recipe, I used the beets, the green onions and the arugula. I also had another half slice without the arugula, and I have to tell you, it really is what made this pizza so good! The peppery bite of the arugula with the creaminess of the goat cheese, and the sweetness of the beets...looking forward to leftovers!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">While we dined on the veranda, we talked about weekend plans. I am headed out to go strawberry picking tomorrow, and sense a shortcake and some strawberry ice cream in my future!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are a couple pictures of Ben's flower pots; he has the green thumb in the family. It really is nice to sit outside, enjoy our dinner, look at the flowers...oh, and watch cars not stop at the stop sign on the corner. Just give me a badge. I would make this town a mint.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfb-vQKcUChceoGswgEwVnuekBcqlvWj2BRszw46g69COsU3F9QfQdjnz9H0qQKEII1XhPKPPR1RAxuL6wrLc4OyIrD2McEIplxr0Mx-fp7Axl_ORpsHFs9-_By6qqUHZsdsJyrbS7x3v/s1600/DSCN1445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfb-vQKcUChceoGswgEwVnuekBcqlvWj2BRszw46g69COsU3F9QfQdjnz9H0qQKEII1XhPKPPR1RAxuL6wrLc4OyIrD2McEIplxr0Mx-fp7Axl_ORpsHFs9-_By6qqUHZsdsJyrbS7x3v/s320/DSCN1445.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutQXMNN0DOPrKlbYPaaC_9Kd5qqsPvyfaNMUBPoTNpVCjuI-Mf0mLsRI-PJRnP1SU5ojNqfpJsV-v9iqcYpiyeemzFTadHzQsxlUgQnBIs2BKHdHWtuTY85Di9nnkhttLdgQ9wjK9xAjy/s1600/DSCN1446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutQXMNN0DOPrKlbYPaaC_9Kd5qqsPvyfaNMUBPoTNpVCjuI-Mf0mLsRI-PJRnP1SU5ojNqfpJsV-v9iqcYpiyeemzFTadHzQsxlUgQnBIs2BKHdHWtuTY85Di9nnkhttLdgQ9wjK9xAjy/s320/DSCN1446.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I am now on twitter; not that I know what I am doing, but you can follow me! Just look for kelbeaudoin and this picture!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07WAxcT2ze76TJH-6qoimQF6CahOZ8_rzk-hU7GZX1vYzHhAs1zsZ97Cyp7Zmz4rVibDH910whLs70IBJbLFt7-igsf1zVieWDGfXKQDPIxuDjbrel3K1-vV8GeRJaw7YWVrkEGKm1udm/s1600/IMG_4454-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07WAxcT2ze76TJH-6qoimQF6CahOZ8_rzk-hU7GZX1vYzHhAs1zsZ97Cyp7Zmz4rVibDH910whLs70IBJbLFt7-igsf1zVieWDGfXKQDPIxuDjbrel3K1-vV8GeRJaw7YWVrkEGKm1udm/s320/IMG_4454-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Thanks for checking in!<br />
<br />
KelKelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-15393320358065501112011-05-22T09:49:00.000-07:002011-05-22T09:49:03.430-07:00Don't Make Me Get Out of the CarBen and I ran a 5k yesterday. It was our first of the season.<br />
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I have not been doing a ton of running, hoping to heal whatever pains in are in legs. <br />
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We awoke to a downpour. Every bone in my body wanted to stay in bed! Ben convinced me to at least go to the race and see what the weather was like when we got there.<br />
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This was the scene as we sat in the car:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlR1104V93RD3EdraTmUBFFvbRXfPPYW2NNGdWz3VrGzuys7VNruxWmrliJzN7dKQwl1DavLQuCZhwayfkxEw4eyp-QBRce2dgNJPgPUiSaloIT5P1AOXOTIHVfxjxZfW7l69TyDBy8ETD/s1600/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlR1104V93RD3EdraTmUBFFvbRXfPPYW2NNGdWz3VrGzuys7VNruxWmrliJzN7dKQwl1DavLQuCZhwayfkxEw4eyp-QBRce2dgNJPgPUiSaloIT5P1AOXOTIHVfxjxZfW7l69TyDBy8ETD/s320/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I don't wanna.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">We grabbed our umbrellas and walked to the tents to pick up our packets and our tshirts. We then walked to the car to drop this stuff off. As we sat there, the rain slowly came to an end. We donned out timing chips, shed our sweatshirts, and headed to the start.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Amazingly enough, I survived. Not the best time ever - 30:13 - but it just sets the bar higher for the rest of our 5ks this summer.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">We like to keep up a regular schedule of races, and have one planned for each month between now and November. Goals are good, and maintaining a race schedule keeps me out there.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I don't really run to race; I just compete with my mind. <i>Just keep going </i>I often tell myself. <i>Slow down if you have to but no walking. </i>I "placed" 225th out of 502. That is good enough for me!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As soon as we got back to the car, the rain started again. Perfect timing!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">We headed to Great Harvest Bakery, and had some bread to refuel us. I love their High Five Fiber and stocked up with 2 loaves as well as a multigrain loaf. I had a slice of the cinnamon chip, but did not dare buy any. That to me is a trigger food; I just know I would cut off a hunk, slather in butter, and then be back for more...and more...and more.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">To complete the morning, Ben and I went to Whole Foods. I can't get over how much money I spend when I go there. Part of it is because I buy things like Fage for $1.99 each (they have a lot of the ones with fruit that I cannot get at my local store) but I also get fresh fish and meat there that I normally don't get.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">A $14 bottle of B-complex and a $10 jar of coconut butter did not help with the final total either, but all so worth it to me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">We headed home and scrambled to get ready for a wedding reception. Scrambling was required because of a little too much putzing by me in Whole Foods.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJpyKJcPZ0iMN0thmq7q-mh6BX5wuKJrbipWEOVlwIgmqaK7GoRLOeTg0eDNBg19PJ0JxxtDzeWzai6uy8uqNphCEoQha8yuS41JFUe7jWNaI-uyws6gQrkjrCIFY9Bua1l-AeM5onFip_/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJpyKJcPZ0iMN0thmq7q-mh6BX5wuKJrbipWEOVlwIgmqaK7GoRLOeTg0eDNBg19PJ0JxxtDzeWzai6uy8uqNphCEoQha8yuS41JFUe7jWNaI-uyws6gQrkjrCIFY9Bua1l-AeM5onFip_/s320/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I love this dress and the ruching; ruching makes everything better!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, here is some advice. Do NOT drink a lot of wine and not eat enough. Maybe the warning should be don't do a 5k and then go to a wedding reception. Maybe I should have paced myself better.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's just say I came home, crashed and then drank lots and lots of water. Ben took good care of me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I invite everyone to listen to a radio program that I will be on Tuesday evening. It is on 8pm East coast, 7pm Central and 5pm West Coast time. Info can be found<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/KarynD/journal/1305851934/exciting-radio-news"> here.</a> (Thanks Karyn for doing all the work.) </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It is bound to be a fun and perhaps crazy show with Lynn, Karyn and I all trying for the spotlight!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">That's all from me for now. Just wanted to check in with the blog world!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Sunday!</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-74537143712181912992011-05-01T16:11:00.000-07:002011-05-01T17:44:19.242-07:00Living Outside the BoxI cleaned out my baking cabinet today.<br />
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I purchased 3 different canister sets from various sellers on Etsy. I also purchased these cool chalkboard stickers to label them with.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsj6_y83wrnwHFBAg698tlgC6JmehF4nt6aaUU2P3RQ7FBTcJ1dA2mxdzlxvkA_Mqr3WjenHarQ-ml6vVV1x3uzVa7OWZI-JyZJwZPxIfS8FMH-KKq3SR_440enclYSKo6FRHdr58uiU2h/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsj6_y83wrnwHFBAg698tlgC6JmehF4nt6aaUU2P3RQ7FBTcJ1dA2mxdzlxvkA_Mqr3WjenHarQ-ml6vVV1x3uzVa7OWZI-JyZJwZPxIfS8FMH-KKq3SR_440enclYSKo6FRHdr58uiU2h/s320/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
A girl that loves to bake has to have a lot of different flours and sugars, ya know?<br />
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I was quite pleased with myself!<br />
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In cleaning out this cabinet, I came across this recipe box:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTYztWlx41WYHswDeUsOadGCldI1swCVYsmtA78_FPp3cF7aS9jP8bQr6HX8MuoAX1lTG4Mn210cJFdbELv8H7n0iq1d08KWiDX00MmYyysaqaTNmRtRhwr_PKZU9CiFl1IqmyoAtTSqb/s1600/DSCN1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTYztWlx41WYHswDeUsOadGCldI1swCVYsmtA78_FPp3cF7aS9jP8bQr6HX8MuoAX1lTG4Mn210cJFdbELv8H7n0iq1d08KWiDX00MmYyysaqaTNmRtRhwr_PKZU9CiFl1IqmyoAtTSqb/s320/DSCN1398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I have 3 recipe boxes full of cards typed out by my mother over the years. She had everything nicely organized.<br />
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This box contained the <i>diet </i>recipes. There was only a small part of the vast collection of diet recipes my mother had. She was always trying something new.<br />
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Well, always isn't really accurate. We (the whole family) were either ON a diet or we were OFF. There was no real <i>balance</i> in our lives. <br />
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I live my life differently than they did. Not that the way they lived their life was bad; they just did not, well, know any better. Their family doctor said <i>eat less, exercise more. </i>That was as far as the advice went. <br />
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I live my life outside a box...I don't have recipes that are for when I am ON or OFF. I find a way to incorporate all of it into my life.<br />
<br />
~~~~~~~~~~<br />
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I went to the grocery store yesterday. Among the other items needed were bread. I love Great Harvest bread, but sadly, it just isn't convenient. I examined the various loaves on the shelves, all wrapped and declaring what they had to offer - <i>whole grains, double the fiber.</i> As I read the ingredients lists, sadly there was a lot more in most of the loaves than what I wanted. I declared I would make my own.<br />
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I have made my own bread before, but knew I wanted something heartier than just wheat bread. I found this recipe for <a href="http://naturallyella.com/2010/05/25/seeded-bread/">Seeded Bread</a>, and, oh how good it is!<br />
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In addition to the seeds she uses in her recipe, I added sunflower kernels and pepitas.<br />
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Here are the nutritional stats:<br />
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<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=664376" /></a><br />
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Yes, the calorie count make it higher in calorie than what you find on the grocery store shelves. I know every ingredient that went into it and I control the size of the slice. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh23lbKnto0uLVZeGaB0sG9lsJ7QkICa55Bvb-ZsAf3lUVWEzDv80sOyphR2oG2JCdMmbFJ14iuyQmrca_KbkihQOpk4s_rAg5klp-UCTDnQuHCiiD_8r0kBGSQQQPu0LIC41he0GtXXySP/s1600/DSCN1400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh23lbKnto0uLVZeGaB0sG9lsJ7QkICa55Bvb-ZsAf3lUVWEzDv80sOyphR2oG2JCdMmbFJ14iuyQmrca_KbkihQOpk4s_rAg5klp-UCTDnQuHCiiD_8r0kBGSQQQPu0LIC41he0GtXXySP/s320/DSCN1400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>If you look carefully, you can see the steam rising off the hot slice!</i></span></div><br />
This is not Great Harvest, but it is a damn good bread!<br />
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Enjoy!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-34005866404064872392011-03-26T18:20:00.000-07:002011-03-26T18:20:08.982-07:00So How IS it Going?It has been almost 4 months since I have stepped on the scale. Ben hid them in mid-December, and I decided to continue not weighing myself for a year.<br />
<br />
So, here is a little recap.<br />
<br />
I feel great. I am no longer working out because the scale tells me to. I AM working out because it is good for me. Am I getting to the gym 4 times a week. Hell no. Am I working out hard when I do work out? Yes. Today Ben and I went for a run. Instead of stopping at the end of the park (3.5 miles according to my handy Garmin) I kept going. We went 4.2 miles. My left hip is hurting some; I have been working on not crossing my legs as a friend of mine explained the impact that can have. I am listening to her. However, it is damn hard. I always cross my legs! This is a real adjustment.<br />
<br />
Anyways, the hip hurt at the beginning of the run, but got better. The first 3 miles were ok, but I really bonked during the last one plus mile. My prerun snack was a piece of white bread and Crofter's jam, but this was apparently not enough!<br />
<br />
Anyways, I do feel really great! Each week when Nutrimirror tells me it is time to record my weight, I am doing it based on how I feel, how my clothes are fitting. I am not doing this when I am trying to lose weight. I really do just want to tighten up as best as I can, as well as not feel deprived. I have been quite successful at that! Ben and I go out once a week, I am eating WHOLE eggs a few times a week, I drink, I eat...sometimes all on the same day!<br />
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I joke with Ben that I have gained 10 pounds, but we all know that is not true. I went shopping yesterday and today and think I look damn good. I am not saying that because of a huge ego (believe me). <br />
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I feel amazing. My energy is good. My skin is glowing.<br />
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So far so good!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-QEmDihhd63ANjx97vra5y21NuiFHF_zYKi9SfBP_4FDZOgZ449gAEU1gBJuX0zwj5paxsqiXxG5QRquN0dL0hHfYA1FjsA9jJx8dusCTYIKfsVG6r8Mu02pDSfzR3oeDz-3umpHYU_0/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-QEmDihhd63ANjx97vra5y21NuiFHF_zYKi9SfBP_4FDZOgZ449gAEU1gBJuX0zwj5paxsqiXxG5QRquN0dL0hHfYA1FjsA9jJx8dusCTYIKfsVG6r8Mu02pDSfzR3oeDz-3umpHYU_0/s320/photo+%25286%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I like to take pictures when I try on clothes!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I bought this one - SALE! </i></span></div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-64522942674535102462011-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:002011-03-19T09:00:32.901-07:00It is Funny to MeIf you read <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/TGIFwithKel/journal/1300468055/tgif-with-kel-3182011-effortless">TGIF with Kel</a> each week, you already saw this picture yesterday.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZUsUHrrOHtSJVdF5x7DiFA2RwrkG6NwC6ecQphvTX-Hhzm4ItMjRqhY8cvO4bqhAs82Wj0Pav5b1mxjScmaVC8jko9I7PAEcgmqGBwARU_7RM_gihKnAgwKiTJKCIDvZ3QclKZDGrhZp/s1600/IMG_4325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZUsUHrrOHtSJVdF5x7DiFA2RwrkG6NwC6ecQphvTX-Hhzm4ItMjRqhY8cvO4bqhAs82Wj0Pav5b1mxjScmaVC8jko9I7PAEcgmqGBwARU_7RM_gihKnAgwKiTJKCIDvZ3QclKZDGrhZp/s320/IMG_4325.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I am having a hard time with this picture. <br />
<br />
I am going to be honest here, and perhaps you will know how crazy I am at times. Don't be too frightened, ok? <br />
<br />
I keep looking at it.<br />
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I was certain Ben had edited it. I mean, I knew he had not reshaped me at all, but I was certain he had played with it. I love this picture.<br />
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This was taken last weekend before we went on a Surly Beer Tour. (Local beer that is freaking awesome!) Ben kept telling me all day that I was beautiful, and as usual, I told him he was sweet. I can't say I look in the mirror and ever feel I am beautiful. <br />
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There are times I feel I have put myself together better than other times, like this one last summer:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5LPHKJpdmNCof6Zehf0g2O2hSwstJTxGoL00G9WJHhCH1MWIzfpTHzhjO-wyDFNCs6IoHpmvZiffPuE3uxWMhq9C-NJ8kankFgHdERSth9dUkvlvqN3VFdOQuPuWmlqUwN-0WVDmdnIW/s1600/if0uJe9tN1flE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5LPHKJpdmNCof6Zehf0g2O2hSwstJTxGoL00G9WJHhCH1MWIzfpTHzhjO-wyDFNCs6IoHpmvZiffPuE3uxWMhq9C-NJ8kankFgHdERSth9dUkvlvqN3VFdOQuPuWmlqUwN-0WVDmdnIW/s320/if0uJe9tN1flE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">That is my oldest son Alex. Cute kid, huh?</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I have had such negative thoughts about myself my whole life. It is pictures like this that snap me out of my low self-esteem moments. I think I look beautiful. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">What I realize about both of these pictures is the common theme; not that my hair was perfect, or that I am wearing a favorite outfit. I am happy in these pictures. I am with those I love more than anything. In both pictures I am looking at the man that inspires me to be the best person I can be. Words cannot describe the joy I have in my heart for him.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;">When I look at pictures of me from my past, I think it is the joy that was missing. I can look at pictures from moments in my life, after the births of my children, for example, and know that I had joy in my heart, but it just did not come out in the picture.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ok, I guess that is enough crazy thoughts for a Saturday. I am going to get up off the couch now, and stop staring at my picture.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a great day!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-83622953480096225442011-03-06T09:36:00.000-08:002011-03-06T09:36:25.984-08:00Eggs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrbJGAhlwSPkxHwiegcdMoeMxh2Xu5yUyPBFoHgyINPmiOdezDSK66tXZrC9C6ODsXmNE1pRGjJBozReoxXZcgecgRkYGG-izEt_BpzJQHUIKYxMkWgp_W-QCARcDNbE71056BEPZJ6i5/s1600/photo+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrbJGAhlwSPkxHwiegcdMoeMxh2Xu5yUyPBFoHgyINPmiOdezDSK66tXZrC9C6ODsXmNE1pRGjJBozReoxXZcgecgRkYGG-izEt_BpzJQHUIKYxMkWgp_W-QCARcDNbE71056BEPZJ6i5/s320/photo+%25285%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; color: #4e4f69; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Eggs.<br />
<br />
They taunt me.<br />
<br />
They beg to be added, poached, to almost everything I cook it seems.<br />
<br />
I think we had eggs with dinner 4 nights last week; one of those nights was at a restaurant.<br />
<br />
See, they are following me.<br />
<br />
As I lay in bed this morning, I thought about our breakfast options. Eggs, of course, came to mind. But if I have an egg for breakfast, I can't have the Bok choy and egg pizza for dinner. Well, technically I could have it, but knew it would make my logs screaming red.<br />
<br />
Pancakes? Oatmeal? Cereal? Every option simply was too sweet. I wanted something savory.<br />
<br />
With Lynn's challenge to eat more veggies I wondered how I might incorporate some into my breakfast. <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/Lynn_Matava/journal/1291738991/serving-up-a-smile-120710-sunnyside-up-a-top-of-th">Spinach and poached eggs</a>. A natural fit.<br />
<br />
Yet I have no english muffins, no bread even.<br />
<br />
What's a girl to do?<br />
<br />
Why, cheesy grits of course!<br />
<br />
I ended up making quick cooking grits, added in a little butter and cheese, topped with sauteed spinach, and topped with my beloved egg.<br />
<br />
I nixed the bok choy and egg pizza; instead I am making one with cannellini beans, caramelized onions and sage.<br />
<br />
It will be a fruit and veggie fest the rest of the day, along with a delicious <a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/people/mom/journal/1298518274/whole-wheat-scones">m.o.m. scone</a> too!<br />
<br />
Lesson learned here? How to have your egg and eat it too.</span>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-32921862661454538972011-02-28T17:32:00.000-08:002011-02-28T17:32:46.101-08:00A brilliant use for Bok Choy!I had purchased baby bok choy at Trader Joe's last week.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://countrytart.blogspot.com/">My friend Lynn</a> was raving about it, and I had every intention of making <a href="http://countrytartrecipes.blogspot.com/2010/06/provencal-baby-bok-choy.html">the recipe she had recommended.</a><br />
<br />
I like to try new vegetables, new foods. A recommendation by a friend is a great way to go. Had she recommended <a href="http://leondznanjing.blogspot.com/2006/12/deep-fried-scorpion.html">fried scorpions</a> I never would have tried it, but this just made sense.<br />
<br />
I had to mention the scorpions; I am addicted to the show<i> <a href="http://science.discovery.com/tv/an-idiot-abroad/">An Idiot Abroad</a>. </i>Watch it. It is brilliant!<br />
<br />
Anyways, the only ingredient I seemed to have for Lynn's recipe was the bok choy. I guess it will need to be tried another week.<br />
<br />
So, yesterday I headed over to <a href="http://tastespotting.com/">tastespotting.com</a>.<br />
<br />
I found <a href="http://sogoodandtasty.blogspot.com/2010/05/baby-bok-choy-and-egg-pizza.html">this recipe</a>. It had everything I could ask for. Pizza. Bok choy. Eggs! I had all the ingredients so it was a no brainer!<br />
<br />
I made my own pizza crust. I normally use Lynn's recipe for that as well, but was not sure how it would work without rising. I ended up with <a href="http://www.savoringthethyme.com/2011/02/guest-post-by-shaina-olmanson-from-food-for-my-family-presents-no-fail-pizza-crust-and-family-pizza-night/">this recipe.</a> Lynn - will yours work without rising time as well?<br />
<br />
I won't go thru all of the details, you can read those in the recipes. I did make 2 changes; in with the bok choy I added some sliced leeks that I needed to use up. And with pizza I HAD to add the anchovies!<br />
<br />
Here is the result:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZiGwU-SLRAA6MF3UhGh-2_vwmdljZFTK32ya3pf2nuubU1JxGFLw6hG6oeX-CV5dkAc1OU6zWpYVaK6Qo5M8pflOP9Mz1lmmq5uASXL9fi4BtPwDDw-6EMXSCwTicA6hL9I-cy-cPiKji/s1600/photo+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZiGwU-SLRAA6MF3UhGh-2_vwmdljZFTK32ya3pf2nuubU1JxGFLw6hG6oeX-CV5dkAc1OU6zWpYVaK6Qo5M8pflOP9Mz1lmmq5uASXL9fi4BtPwDDw-6EMXSCwTicA6hL9I-cy-cPiKji/s320/photo+%25285%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The eggs were just past runny. So good.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrDCHjawWGT2uT0hnVf6lL4ATeKnp-vM6wr5gqieGNbqxT5ixEzK9_hyN75PsDF8tFPU0PEX6euKfPUgGpkvRQpyhBLeHQtOqj0rQfiwGVLLSgMI2UPeQNqP-Y93zFPqZv8bj7PCFZ-Rs/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrDCHjawWGT2uT0hnVf6lL4ATeKnp-vM6wr5gqieGNbqxT5ixEzK9_hyN75PsDF8tFPU0PEX6euKfPUgGpkvRQpyhBLeHQtOqj0rQfiwGVLLSgMI2UPeQNqP-Y93zFPqZv8bj7PCFZ-Rs/s320/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I have a similar piece ready for lunch tomorrow!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Work with me. Make this. Please!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are the stats, minus the leeks and the anchovies. (The anchovies will increase your sodium count!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><br />
<a href="http://www.nutrimirror.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="nutrition facts" border="0" src="http://www.nutrimirror.com/nutrition-facts.php?id=632832" /></a>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-64205189905422221602011-02-19T11:09:00.000-08:002011-02-28T18:00:38.606-08:00Happy to Have a Lazy Day!Good Saturday morning! How have you all been? I have missed you!<br />
<br />
Where DOES the time go? Seriously. <br />
<br />
Last week I was in Las Vegas for work. It was a good week, but did they have to have a scale in my bathroom? No, I did not step on it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8BG_e9BTwuI4nMhWYZe4mTBOJv1X38gnInbpz7FxWmpycQnWe02aM2e4w_wqx8mYzEehxzuHRq1deOAs0ZSF614d2_BISsgeWzNORjIQhvW-ypUkXAv9Clin1TZfGP5ARtdXh-Xjorxy/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS8BG_e9BTwuI4nMhWYZe4mTBOJv1X38gnInbpz7FxWmpycQnWe02aM2e4w_wqx8mYzEehxzuHRq1deOAs0ZSF614d2_BISsgeWzNORjIQhvW-ypUkXAv9Clin1TZfGP5ARtdXh-Xjorxy/s320/photo+%25286%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<br />
After what seemed like a 10 day work week, I am happy to be sitting here in my PJs. It is 12:23 CST so that indeed qualifies me as lazy!<br />
<br />
I have been doing some meal planning this morning, and am excited for my shopping trip. I decided to head to Trader Joe's today.<br />
<br />
TJ's is not exactly close. I have 4 in the metro to choose from, the closest about 15 minutes away. I have only one real reason to go there today, and that is for Chile and Cheese Tamales.<br />
<br />
This past week I was digging through the freezer for meal ideas; since last weekend I was out of town, there was no meal planning or grocery shopping. I was scraping by on what I had. I found a previous purchase of TJ's Tamales in the back, on the bottom shelf. <br />
<br />
Ben and I headed out or a run, and by the time I was home, I was really ready for those tamales. And they rocked!<br />
<br />
After following the instructions, I added Ben's homemade enchilada sauce (I will share the recipe someday), a poached egg, some black beans and a sliced avocado. It was SO good. Now you see why I need to go. I must have it again this week!<br />
<br />
I really love poached eggs. I had them 3 times in Vegas. I went to the same restaurant twice for this amazing soup that had a runny poached egg in it. SO GOOD! Anything is better with a poached egg on it! <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2kTWNY8852_gR1CowLCPPtlJK9HD4ZfHCg_xx_Gn-K4sdGwW_gcMXlmNd7ku8cYusdoZweaXvrbMgS3EmyiPlpJMILz4GwT-ItawGT8l2uNR_sIpfzCxcnZj84FY2k6lf_aWNxWeubPO/s1600/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2kTWNY8852_gR1CowLCPPtlJK9HD4ZfHCg_xx_Gn-K4sdGwW_gcMXlmNd7ku8cYusdoZweaXvrbMgS3EmyiPlpJMILz4GwT-ItawGT8l2uNR_sIpfzCxcnZj84FY2k6lf_aWNxWeubPO/s320/photo+%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And this was a hamburger I had with a runny fried egg. Dreamy! Notice the fries? Yes, cooked in duck fat!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWeqLfHLrvY_C8PGxJTeualMkndeHNcGErPvwPVW_AZBDDrgusjnmmoCccNOswOw5gN3PZJ2-hFlgEfh6UDe9N53xthrKWjl_nXU6IZQbi8RipGNLvQSVAWNnVyFYEZTHKWhF_oMoJCnK/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWeqLfHLrvY_C8PGxJTeualMkndeHNcGErPvwPVW_AZBDDrgusjnmmoCccNOswOw5gN3PZJ2-hFlgEfh6UDe9N53xthrKWjl_nXU6IZQbi8RipGNLvQSVAWNnVyFYEZTHKWhF_oMoJCnK/s320/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyways, back to Trader Joes and my plans for meals for this week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last year I had purchased the book <u style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cooking-All-Things-Trader-Joes/dp/0979938449/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1298141499&sr=8-1">Cooking with All Things Trader Joe's</a></u> by Deana Gunn and Wona Miniati.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I decided I actually should <i>make</i> some of the recipes instead of just drooling over them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am going to make <i>Black Bean Soup</i>, prep time 10 minutes, cooking time 20.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am also going to make <i>Pizza Bianca with Prosciutto and Asparagus</i>. You know anchovies will be making an appearance! I will cut back on the prosciutto to avoid the salt lick effect. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For Sunday dinner I am going to make this pot pie:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafRD7CS59Q8lO3Ftk5R5lLKfM_p_tXzAraik4Yokg3p3aolgApGdY_hIZiI16PJuwQ-p9fu4HMGY8suCtgfJHHmKEuvPa6pj5jkaJfpwQReqwUfR8puuML6M7GpFOFePpE9Z_YcsJVLG7/s1600/photo+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafRD7CS59Q8lO3Ftk5R5lLKfM_p_tXzAraik4Yokg3p3aolgApGdY_hIZiI16PJuwQ-p9fu4HMGY8suCtgfJHHmKEuvPa6pj5jkaJfpwQReqwUfR8puuML6M7GpFOFePpE9Z_YcsJVLG7/s320/photo+%25285%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">No one said this would be good for me.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This is from the Nine Fine Irishmen, a restaurant in NYNY in Las Vegas. I had vowed to get the recipe when I visited this time. I had it before the last time I was in Las Vegas, and had made attempts to recreate it at home. I was even committed to offer, um, certain sexual favors to get the recipe. (KIDDING!) No favors had to be offerred; it turns out all I had to do was ask! An email to the chef, and <i>voila! </i>I now have the recipe. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">One last recipe to round out the week's menu. It is one of the easiest to make, and will offer lunch leftovers too. It is <a href="http://www.tastypalettes.com/2008/12/pasta-e-ceci-pasta-with-chickpeas.html">Pasta e Ceci</a>. I had it for the first time on our trip to Italy last year. I dare say this recipe was even better than the one I had in Rome. You MUST get the feta cheese. I had been skipping this, and when I added it the last time, it just takes this to a whole different level of flavor. You <i>think</i> it is decadent, but it is not!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Well, I guess it is time for this girl's lazy Saturday to come to an end. I need to get off the couch, put on some running gear and hit the pavement, if even for just a mile. Then off to the store with my grocery list in hand!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I hope you have a spectacular weekend!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XXx16_hpISV5OOCSXs14dtUyCyM2Jd1en_uZOBVnfBZStfsW6uI4m0cJXyiZo6R8EMKixtWa5cxh8p7vcOpub3joeWAUsCBoJC3o7xION0O3jBVO-0kYFgeaLZS2Mp05CpIYmgkE45ov/s1600/photo+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XXx16_hpISV5OOCSXs14dtUyCyM2Jd1en_uZOBVnfBZStfsW6uI4m0cJXyiZo6R8EMKixtWa5cxh8p7vcOpub3joeWAUsCBoJC3o7xION0O3jBVO-0kYFgeaLZS2Mp05CpIYmgkE45ov/s320/photo+%25289%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Enjoying the sun on my face last weekend in Las Vegas.</span></i> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-82146396352784405242011-02-05T09:18:00.000-08:002011-02-05T09:18:01.891-08:00That ScaleI had a physical for life insurance purposes yesterday.<br />
<br />
Blood pressure 110/68.<br />
Pulse - 49.<br />
Weight - ?<br />
<br />
I had not even seen her take the scale out; she had come to my house for the physical. She wheeled her bag of goodies in and somehow snuck the scale out without me seeing. She did the questionnaire, had me pee in a cup, took a few vials of blood and then asked me to step on the scale.<br />
<br />
Really? But don't you know what I am trying to do?<br />
<br />
Now, she is here to take measurements for life insurance, not to see if I am sane. Thoughts race through my head; do I tell her what I am trying to do here? Or will I sound nuts?<br />
<br />
<i>Promise me you won't tell me the number </i> I say before I will step on the scale. <i>I am not weighing myself for a year.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
She showed no signs of thinking that I was nuts. Either that or perhaps she laughed when I was on the scale and my eyes were closed.<br />
<br />
Thank goodness it was not a talking scale!<br />
<br />
She handed me my paperwork and assured me that she had not written my weight down on my copy of the paperwork. Nice!<br />
<br />
I imagine there will be more moments like this in my future. This one was pretty easy as I could not have read the scale had I wanted to. It was an old fashioned dial one and I have a hard time reading those little lines.<br />
<br />
A trip to the doctor's office will be more challenging; I will just step on backwards. Maybe I should make business cards; my name, phone number, and the blog address should anyone have concerns.<br />
Go here, you can read what I am trying to do.<br />
<br />
I remind myself what it is I am trying to accomplish. I have been working out a few times a week, I have been eating to meet the nutritional needs of my body, and am making sure I don't feel hungry or deprived. I can look in the mirror and see progress. I do not need to see the progress on the scale.<br />
<br />
Let's face it, and I articulated the same to Ben last night.. I am still at a point where even though I can look in the mirror and be really happy with what I am seeing, if I were to step on the scale and see that I <i>had gained weight</i> I would be a wreck. I know for a fact I have been adding muscle. I can see it in my legs, my arms, and even in this loose skin covered abdomen. A pound of muscle replaces a pound of fat and the scale stays the same. You ADD more muscle than the fat pounds lost and the scale can go up. For me, that would be enough to cause me to course correct, and change my diet. That would end up being a mistake! More muscle means your body is burning more calories at rest. I need the fuel for my body and I am <i>getting</i> to the point where I am listening to it instead of looking at calorie counts on my food log.<br />
<br />
Never a never again; constantly a work in progress!<br />
<br />
Have a great Saturday!Kelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5511839857201666726.post-85371552137016398862011-02-02T17:59:00.000-08:002011-02-02T17:59:04.037-08:00UninspiredUninspired...it is not that I am lacking the subjects to talk about. I have good recipes from last week...well, maybe one or two. I have ideas swirling in my head. But I honestly think I am <i>talked out </i>by the end of the day.<br />
<br />
At work I answer emails, "talk" via instant messenger, answer questions, ask many questions of my own, and sit in meetings. Lots. of. Meetings.<br />
<br />
In this environment, I have a defined subject, and I <i>talk about </i>that subject all day. <i>Blah blah blah.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
What I would really love to do (and be paid for it mind you) is get out and <i>talk; </i>talk to people. Large groups, small groups, one on one. It matters not.<br />
<br />
So, when I say I am uninspired I guess it is really unmotivated. Unmotivated to make the keys on the keyboard speak for me. <br />
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I believe I am also affected by the phenomenon that I don't have the word for; I describe it as when you have LOTS to say, you just don't know where to begin and how to make an approach. You have experienced it I bet.<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: This is not a specific example of what I am experiencing. </i> I just want to give you an idea.<br />
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You have something you are upset about, say with your spouse. The more you think about what it is that is upsetting you, the less you talk. It ends up with your spouse asking <i>What is wrong? </i> Your only response? <i>Nothing.</i><br />
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Like I said, I am not upset with Ben about anything; on the contrary, I could not be happier. He lets me sit quietly and recognizes when my brain is moving 100 miles an hour even though there are now words coming out.<br />
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I am seeing things in my life I am reacting to, and I am certain overreacting a bit. I am reading the words of others and want to scream <i>STOP I can help you if you let me</i>. I am just not sure where to begin. I wait for an invitation for help that is not coming.<br />
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So I will wait for that time. Maybe. We will see.<br />
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In the meantime, blog world, please know that I am thinking about you. I have lots to share, and I will.<br />
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Love,<br />
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KelKelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02985829738108708356noreply@blogger.com2