My McArnold and the MOST Amazing Meal

Going on a recommendation from Fitzalan, I tried an Egg "McMuffin" - although, I guess mine would be an Egg "McArnold" since I had no English Muffins...just Arnold's Sandwich thins.

I used 1/2 cup of Egg Beaters, and topped in on my sandwich of 1 Laughing Cow Wedge/Garlic Hummus.

Best. Breakfast. EVER!!

This seriously rocked. I was hungry not too long after so just had a banana for a snack, but this is definitely on my list to do again!!

I am so glad I tried out different breakfasts this week! This may seem weird to many of you, but I usually will have the same breakfast - every single day - for years. I guess it's part comfort, and part just being easy this way. Not to sound cheesy, but it was definitely fun to switch things up this week and kind of gave me something to look forward to after I got to work each morning.

Now, onto my new recipe.....I LOVE bean recipes - I am no vegetarian, but I do love meatless meals because a. they are cheaper and b. I get a little freaked by what MIGHT be in my meat (it's on my list to try organic!). And this recipe has wine in it. And I don't like wine, but I do love alcohol.

Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce With Feta and Wine

Now the funny thing is, it called for 'dry wine.' Hmmm. I know dry means kind of bitter tasting, but I had NO clue what kinds of wines were dry. I figured what the hey, this sounds good and if it's not, the roommate will drink it.

Folks, this was AMAZING!!! SO easy, too. I used flavored feta (tomato/basil), but everything else was the same. It's SO good, in fact, that I'm making it again this weekend. My house smelled like Pizza Hut, I kid you not.

TGIF!!! This week went by fast, but I LIVE for the weekend. Tonight is my baby niece's birthday party and tomorrow we're celebrating my sister's birthday. I love birthday celebrations! Especially ones for little kids.

Anything fun planned your way this weekend? Have a great Friday!

Today I am thankful for:

- Talking to my sweet nieces and nephew on the phone
- Morning walks
- Checking Facebook from your cell phone ;-)

Breakfast Cookie and a Sexy New Man

I've been curious about the infamous breakfast cookie ever since I first saw them on Gina's blog. I knew the recipe called for protein powder (which I've never used), so when I saw these little packets at the store, I snatched 'em right up.

LOOK at those biceps. mmmmm.

It smells SO good. Like cocoa powder!

I also got to try out this new stuff....I've never had the TJ's brand and being that it's about $3 cheaper than Maranatha, I might be a convert.

My cookie contained 1/2 the ($2!) packet of sexy powder, 1/2 smashed ripe naner, 1 tablespoon almond butter, 1/3 cup oats, a splash of skim milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

The outcome....

The verdict? This was SO GOOD! I almost felt guilty eating it for breakfast. ;-) I am fo' SHO' making this again.

Do you use protein powder? What's your fave? They are pretty $$$, but I have to admit they are so convenient and dayumn this stuff tastes good.

Today I am thankful for:

- New recipes

- Wi-Fi

- 80's music

Breakfast Take 2 and New Snack

So obviously my heart belongs to oatmeal. But I've never tried overnight oats. And with this hot weather, what better time than now?

I found this recipe for Strawberry Banana Almond Oats on Kath's blog. I only made a few changes - 1/3 c. skim cow's milk, 1/3 c. Chobani vanilla yogurt, and no granola/cereal.

This was pretty good! I think I would definitely add in some almond butter (surprise surprise!) next time, or maybe some cereal on top for some crunch. But I love how all of the flavors mix together. Strawberry + banana = one of my favorite combos. (Remember the strawberry banana Hubba Bubba gum?!! I used to tear that UP!) AND it actually - wait for it - kept me pretty full. My tummy didn't rumble until around 11, which is definitely progress.

I also found this new snackie at the grocery store and took it for a whirl.

I used to LOVE the Breakstone Cottage Cheese Doubles, but they have 15 grams of sugar and it always left my mouth wanting something more sweet.

I love sun dried tomato anything. Plus, this baby had 15 grams of protein, and only 6 grams of sugar.

The verdict? WOW! I loved it. I'm so used to eating something sweet with cottage cheese, this was a nice change. I'm definitely stocking up on this next time (ugh, if they're on sale like last time).

Today I also had my follow-up appointment with my hot, Bow-flexing doctor. He was so incredibly sweet, he sat down and talked to me before he started. He said, "Don't worry. You aren't going to get cancer, you're going to be able to have tons of kids, and you'll be just fine." I just love that man.

I had a colposcopy and he ended up doing a biopsy as well. He said the questionable area was very small, so small that he might have even gotten it all when he did the biopsy. And the biopsy wasn't even that painful - after the nurse told me it felt like getting your ears pierced (ummm, in your vajayjay?!), I was scared of course. But it wasn't bad at all. In any event, I should know the results in 7-10 days!

Hope you all had a WONDERFUL Tuesday.

Check out Lesley's Awesome Giveaway!

Today I am thankful for:

- Short, afternoon summer rainstorms

- Reassuring doctors

- Quiet evenings at home

Breakfast Take 1 and Key Lime Pie

So this morning I did something TOTALLY out of the norm for me - I had a "hearty" breakfast rather than my usual "sweet" breakfast. I cooked an egg and paired it with a slice of Provolone cheese + some avocado.

The verdict? This was pretty good! I should've added some hummus, though, because it was a little lackin' in the flavah department for me.

Did it keep me full? Uh...big fat NO. I ate my breakfast around 8:30 and my belly was rumbling around 9 already. Seriously, what is my deal??? I had a handful of almonds, but even that didn't tide me over. I had a banana around 9:45 and ended up eating lunch around 12:30. Sigh....better luck tomorrow.

So my girl friends, sisters and I get together every Monday night to watch "The Bachelor" (I know...I know). Usually we rotate bringing things and I get a little nervous because 4 of the girls don't really eat healthy foods, and some are struggling to lose baby weight so it's always a sensitive issue. (AKA - I don't want to be called out for being the only healthy eater).

Anywho, I wanted to bring something healthy without it screaming RABBIT FOOD. And of course I always have a hankering for some Key Lime in my life. One of the best desserts I've ever had was Key Lime Pie on a stick that I had in Key West. I can't think of it without my mouth watering! I looked into getting a box shipped to Indiana - just can't justify $150, though.

I found this recipe for Key Lime Pie and gave it a whirl. The only other KLP I've made before has been the "no bake" kind...felt kind of weird sticking this in the oven?

Before Cool Whip....
After Cool Whip....

I only tasted the filling so far (what friend am I if I don't sample what I bring??) but OH my gosh. So, so good!

What's your favorite kind of pie? Mine would probably be Key Lime or Peanut Butter. Mmmmm! With Apple and Pumpkin falling right behind in 2nd place.

Don't forget to check out MegaNerd Run's Chobani giveaway!!

Today I am thankful for:

- The Bachelorette finale! (Think she's gonna choose Ed but I wish Reid....SUCH a cutie).

- Hanging out with my sistahs

- Sunny Mondays

Michigan Part 2

Indoor water parks are the COOLEST!

Avalanche Bay was right down the street from our condo. It worked out perfectly that it rained on Wednesday, so we took the kiddos and headed there for half the day.

Aren't lazy rivers the best? I want one surrounding my mansion when I grow up. ;-)

Reese was my little buddy for a little bit.

Uh...Ryan? Tryin' to cop a feel?! LOL. Ryan is ALL boy. He cried when he couldn't go down the biggest water slides there! Poor guy. He went down the other slides no less than 30 times, I would guess. Such a cutie.
Aunt Holly went down no less than 20 times.

And check out this stud!! They had a little "surfing" area (the only thing I didn't try - NOT a good idea as I trip over my own 2 feet on dry, flat land) and my dad wanted to give it a whirl. Does this look like a guy who had a pacemaker put it a little over a month ago?!

We had SUCH a great time - and I'm so excited that they are building a huge indoor water park literally a mile from my house! You can bet this girl will be the first in line for a season pass.

I stocked up on some new foods this week for brekkie, in the hopes I can find something more FILLING for my tummy. More to come on that this week!

Have a wonderful, beautiful Sunday!

Today I am thankful for:

- Wikihow

- Juicy cantaloupe

- Anything key lime flavored!

I Heart Vacation.

Vacation = heaven. I've decided it doesn't even matter where I am...simply being away from WORK (!) and spending time with the fam (who I get along with - weird, huh?!) is enough for me.

The place we vacationed in Michigan was beautiful! It was not too far from Lake Charlevoix, and the towns there were so cute. Here was the view from behind our place. (It's a ski resort, but you could probably figure that out). ;-)

How FUN would this be in the winter? Except, um, I'm really scared of downhill skiing. I'm more of a Family Hill kinda gal.

So I did pretty well with my food and being active. It was SO tempting as we made a huge trip to the grocery store and, well, LOTS of 100 calorie pack foods, cookies, and ice cream were purchased. NOT that I don't love or eat those foods, I just have no "off" button! So I loaded up on fruits, yogurt, and almonds, and I tried to snack-a-lack on those.

The workout room wasn't all that bad! Teeny teeny tiny, but everything was nice and new. I went everyday for about an hour of weights, abs, and walking on a treadmill (on an incline).

It was kind of neat - they had the ski lift open in the afternoon, so my sisters, brothers-in-law and I all rode to the top of the mountain one evening.Me and my "brave" face. I'm terrified of heights!!

My sister and her hubs are so goofy. I love.
Me and the sistahs.

I also went for a couple of beautiful, gorgy walks. Don'tcha just love walking/running in new places?! Here is the cross country skiing trail that I came upon. I was so excited!

Until I came to this.

I quickly turned around.

Has anyone seen the movie "The Descent"? Scariest. Movie. EVER. It gave me nightmares for the longest time! I know the movie takes place in a cave, but they started OUT in the woods. So I avoid the woods when I'm by myself now. :-)

We also went kayacking....I LOVE kayacking. A great way to get a good arm workout - and the water was so clear!
Hope you all had a great week. Sorry this post is lame - I'm so tired and am looking forward to sleeping in my own bed rather than on a sofa sleeper with my 3 year old nephew. I love that kid, but I love my own bed! I'll post more pics this weekend. :-)

Today I'm thankful for:

- Good books

- Napping in the car (not when driving)

- Reunions with old friends

Vacation Time!

Thank you so much for your happy thoughts/prayers coming my way. It’s kind of reassuring knowing that so many of you have had the same procedure – I’m hoping that the doctor is just being precautious. In funny news, I had a dream about my doctor last night – I have a total crush on him. Kind of weird to have a crush on a guy who gets paid to probe your vajayjay, but you would, too! Go here to see him – yes, that IS him (Dr. Mernitz). He lost 55 pounds on the Bow Flex! LOL. My friend goes to him, too, and randomly found that one day. How funny is that?!

Also, thank you SO MUCH for all of your wonderful breakfast ideas!! I made a list of breakfast foods to try the week I get back from vacation. Now, this will definitely take some extra time in the morning on my part – but it’s worth a shot. I’ll post my breakfasts and let ya know what holds this gal over.

So….vacation time!!!! I can’t even tell you how excited I am. Not necessarily for the vacation (though it will be a blast) – just time away from work! I’m only taken one vacation day this year and I just feel burnt out.

Tomorrow morning our family is headed to Boyne Falls, Michigan until Thursday.

Like the pic? I don’t want to see any of that white stuff for awhile.

I do get a little nervous about vacations because of my workouts and eating – and this will be a little more challenging since I can’t run. Usually I run almost every day on vacation. It’s a great way to see new things and places! This trip I’m planning on taking lots of walks, hitting the weight room a few times (that is supposed to be available, hopefully with some equipment at least from the 90’s), and some “rulking.”

I USUALLY do pretty well on my eats as far as vacations go. There are 11 of us total, 4 under the age of 5. So it’s pretty hard for us to find a restaurant that can put up with my noisy famaccommodate all of us. We make our own meals with the exception of maybe one or two meals out. I’m also bringing some of my own goods:

Plus we’re hitting up the grocery the day we get into town, so I’ll stock up may-juhly on some fruits and veggies.

Oh, and I plan to bring this along for the ride, too:

Thanks, Fitz, for the recommendation! This thing HURTS like a mo-fo, or maybe I’m just weak. But the foam roller hurt a lot in the beginning, too, and now it really doesn’t. I’m hoping the Stick is the same.

We have almost eight hours in the car tomorrow...hopefully I'll get some reading done at least (and watch a few DVD's...um, hello, Wentworth Miller AND Robert Pattison?!).

Do you get nervous when you travel because of workouts and eating? How do you plan ahead?

Hopefully we’ll have Wi-Fi there and can post at least once this week. If not, you’ll hear from me Thursday night. Have a great weekend, friends!

Today I am thankful for:

- Cool weather for mowing

- Clean bed sheets that smell amazing

- The Swiffer (gosh I love this thing)

I Can't Get No Satisfaction

Phew. This morning I got a voicemail from my (girlie) doctor to give him a call about my test results. I called and their office wasn't open for another 20 minutes. Longest. 20 minutes. ever. So apparently my lab results came back abnormal and I have to go in for a colposcopy (better than a colonoscopy, right??). The nurse I spoke to was very reassuring, but of course anything that insinuates a possibility of cancer scares the crap out of anyone. It could be a sign of Dysplasia, which actually my mom and aunts had. Wow, that's a lot to handle at 8:30 a.m.! Hopefully all will be fine...I go back July 28th, so nothing I can do about it until then!

Anywho, I have a problem.

I need new breakfast ideas!! No, I am not sick of oatmeal. I'm going on about 8 months of pretty much having the same breakfast everyday - oatmeal + PB (a spoonful or two) + banana. But it's not filling me up anymore. I eat breakfast around 8:30 or 9, and usually by 10:30 I'm starving. Hangry Holly is not a pretty sight!

This is weird to me, since I haven't been running. I'm strength training 3 days/week and walking or "wulking" 4-5 days a week, but not that far (maybe 2-3 miles at a time). I honestly am a little confused because it doesn't seem like I would need a "huge" breakfast with my activity level? I don't know.

So anyone have any good, filling breakfast ideas? I've never tried protein powder of any kind....maybe that would do the trick? I'm going on vacation next week with the fam, but the week I come back I'm going to try an experiment - a DIFFERENT breakfast everyday. Which is, like, very out of the norm for me! But it might be kinda fun, too. :-)

Check out:

- Kelly's a-freakin'-mazing Nut Butter Giveaway!

Today I am thankful for:

- Moms for reassuring
- Perfect summer mornings
- Sore legs after wulking (the good sore!)

Two Quickies

I've been getting out of the habit of trying new recipes lately. So....I'm vowing to make at least one newbie a week. I have a stack full of recipes that just are waitin' to be made!

You will never believe this, but I have never made anything using a crock pot/slow cooker. Yes, 'tis true! I actually had to borrow one to make this.

I found this recipe for Zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Barbeque. Sounded easy to me.

As P-Dub would say, the cast of characters (+ the chicken):

I really wanted to HFCS-free stuff, but this was either all my store had or it was SO much more to buy the "good" stuff! Next time, next time....

In the cooker....
All shredded up.

Oh my frickin' goodness! This was so good, and ridiculously easy! I will definitely be making this again. Right after I buy a slow cooker.

82 years ago, I also found this recipe for Campbell's Chicken & Rice Casserole. It, too, sounded quick and easy. And who doesn't like a quickie?

The cast (+ the chicken - so camera shy!):

All baked and ready to go...

This was wonderful, too! I love having veggies with my meal - so this was great, because it was built in for me.

What's your favorite quick and easy recipe?

Check out:

- Run to the Finish's Good Gear Giveaway!

Today I am thankful for:

- Playing at the park with my nieces and nephew

- Oat bran

- TJ's almond butter which I just bought and have yet to try! Still thankful for it, though.

Almond Breeze...Makes Me Feel Fine

I tried it!

In the mix --> the normal nanner + kale + ice + flax, plus some strawberries....

The verdict?

Very tasty! I have had a recent obsessioncraving for almonds lately, so of course I fell in love. Don't know if I would drink it alone, but it was perfect in my green monster!

Have you tried any alternative milks? Soy? Almond? Rice Dream?

On a side note, thank you so much to all of you for your comments on my last post. Nobody likes to feel alone in the things they think, so it was comforting that many of you feel the same. I have more to say on this topic, for sure. I think for now, I need to focus on what is right for me - not compare myself to others, because my needs are not the same as theirs.

Today I am thankful for:

- Vacation in 5 days!
- The Bachelorette (what will I DO when it's over?!)
- Being close to the restroom at work ;-)

Food Blogging...and Two Cute Photos

First of all, I have to show you two photos because they are too cute.

My niece, Reese, lost her first tooth (she's 5...seems early?!). How cute is she? My other sister (Reese's aunt) took this pic. I'm trying to convince her to start her own photography businessso I can quit my job and become her personal assistant. She's good, right?

So as I was mowing today I noticed a baby bunny run out of my yard. Seriously, it could fit in the palm of your hand!! When I was done mowing I was pulling out weeds around my house and found this nestled against my house:

Do you see it?! It was adorable! I screamed at first, because, well, I wasn't expecting to see something furry right in front of me. It was so sweet, it didn't move. I checked later and it was gone...hopefully Peter C. found his mommy.

Anywho, sometimes I get nervous about posts in which I come clean about something. This is very funny to me because I don't (personally) "know" any of you! If I can't be truthful here, there is a real problem, eh?

Let me preface this by saying I firmly believe that whatever works best for your body, have at it. I know some can't handle dairy, some can't handle tons of protein, some can't handle fruit, and that is okay! I am no way judging others for what/how they eat. Lord knows how many people have judged me for my weird eats. ;-)

I will be honest. I’ve heard other bloggers say the same, but sometimes I don’t know whether or not food blogs are helpful or hurtful to me. I mean, I guess at times they are both. How are they helpful? I love reading about the bloggers who can take in a piece of cake or a cookie and get over it. Life's too short not to eat some cake, right? And also I've gotten some amazing recipes and learned about new foods (hello, almond butter and quinoa!) from these ladies. Not to mention, I've "met" some v. awesome people!

However, I'm sad to say that in the recent months I have struggled with binging/restricting and binging/purging. Not to the point where it is excessive, as it used to be, but still to the point where it concerns me. Especially the purging.

With so many food bloggers leaning towards a more drastic type of clean eating than I am used to seeing, it has left me a bit unsettled. Sometimes I feel bad because I don't eat as "clean" as others. Sure, I don't eat very many processed foods like I used to. But some people don't eat any at all. I know we should never compare ourselves to how others eat (see above), but I would be lying if I said seeing and reading about these people's food choices didn't affect me in a negative way at times.


Do you feel as though food blogs in general are helpful or harmful to you? What is the greatest benefit you get out of reading them - or having your own?

I got this Meme from Kim and I just love doing these things. No one bothered me at work because I must have had the "concentrating" look on my face! lol


1. I’ve come to realize that my chest-size. . .is not to be taken for granted. I say this because of my numerous friends who've nursed one or several babies. We gotta appreciate the goods now, ladies!

2. I’ve come to realize that my job. . .is sucky. Wait, be positive! Okay - is only a temporary situation that will provide me with financial security when it comes time to pursue my "dream job." (Better?)

3. I’ve come to realize that when I’m driving. . .I zone out. Kind of a lot. Bet you're glad you don't live in Indy!

4. I’ve come to realize that I need. . .something that I can't post here because it's inappropriate. lol - half kidding! I need water. Like, I drink over 100 ounces a day. I literally get cranky when I don't have it! (although I pee much less)

5. I’ve come that realize that I have lost. . .my mind? No, I've lost my patience with people who are constantly complaining about something, but yet refuse to do anything to change the situation.

6. I’ve come to realize that I hate it when. . .people tailgate me. Although not so bad if number 3 (above) is happening.

7. I’ve come to realize that if I’m drunk. . .I have diarrhea of the mouth. If you want to know my secrets, bring me some Jose!

8. I’ve come to realize that money…if in excess, often makes people unhappy, because they are always wanting the next best thing...and they are never satisfied.

9. I’ve come to realize that certain people. . .aren't in my life anymore because they made me feel bad, even though it was hard to cut ties with them. If they make you feel bad, why be friends with them?

10. I’ve come to realize that I’ll always. . .be ultra-sensitive.

11. I’ve come to realize that my sibling(s). . .are my best friends, just like mom said they'd be (darnit, she's right again).

12. I’ve come to realize that my mom…loves to nag only because she loves me.

13. I’ve come to realize that my cell phone. . .needs to be with me at all times.

14. I’ve come to realize that when I woke up this morning. . .I was SO GLAD it was Friday. 2 days free from work!

15. I’ve come to realize that last night before I went to sleep. . .I was only thinking about sleeping in on Saturday.

16. I’ve come to realize that right now I am thinking. . .gosh I love these memes. People think I'm working!

17. I’ve come to realize that my dad. . .is probably the best guy I've ever come across in my life. Ever. And I'm still in awe that I deserve for a man that pure and good to be my father.

18. I’ve come to realize that when I get on Facebook. . .I giggle when I see the updates of all my SAHM (stay at home mom) friends - whom I respect so much - like, "Jonny pooed in the potty!" and "I'm going to send the girls to juevy if they don't shut up!" Tooootally different than the updates from my single friends.

19. I’ve come to realize that today. . .is awesome because it's Friday.

20. I’ve come to realize that tonight. . .will be chillaxin' time with my sistahs.

21. I’ve come to realize that tomorrow. . .I will get to see my dear grandma, and many members of my family!

22. I’ve come to realize that I really want to. . .find a rewarding, fulfilling job.

23. I’ve come to realize that the person mostly likely to repost this is. . .not sure about this one!

24. I’ve come to realize that life. . .is about how you look at things. The same sucky thing can happen to two different people, yet they can react in complete opposite ways.

25. I’ve come to realize that this weekend. . .is a time for me to re-group and eats LOTS of fruits and veggies.

26. I’ve realized the best music to listen to when I am upset. . .is currently "Flightless Bird, American Mouth" by Iron & Wine (from the "Twilight" soundtrack). Or Britney Spears in general.

27. I’ve come to realize that my friends. . . might be at different points in their lives than me, but that doesn't mean we can't still be good friends.

28. I’ve come to realize that this year. . .is going to bring about a lot of change!

29. I’ve come to realize that my exes. . .were kind of jerks, but I don't hate 'em. They were fun!

30. I’ve come to realize that maybe I should. . .get back to work?

31. I’ve come to realize that I love. . .my family.

32. I’ve come to realize that I don’t understand. . .why bad things happen to good people. I know everything happens for a reason, but it's just upsetting when something tragic happens to someone very loving and kind.

33. I’ve come to realize my past. . .involved LOTS of mistakes, from which I am still learning everyday.

34. I’ve come to realize that parties. . .are a time to indulge, but not to the point of being sick (that goes for sweets AND, um, beer).

35. I’ve come to realize that I’m totally terrified. . .of flying. But this won't stop me from doing it...that would mean giving up travel!

36. I’ve come to realize that my life. . .is unpredictable. And I kinda like that. :-)

Today I am thankful for:

- Ice packs
- Fresh strawberries
- Friendly faces at the gym who know my name

Irony or Coincidence?

I had a smart-asspretty intelligent boyfriend in college who would get PISSED when people interchanged the words "irony" and "coincidence." Like, "Oh, that's ironic - we were just talking about you!" Well, technically that's a "coincidence." Anyway, it makes me super paranoid about using the word "irony" now.

So when we last left off I was telling you about my new inserts that my PT recommended ($40 from Amazon).

This morning I went in to see my ortho doctor. Upon telling him that my knee, in fact, is not 100% (I would say it's 70% better?), he mentioned the "s" word - surgery. "Is it bad enough to warrant surgery?" he asked. Um, NO! I would say the pain (on the pain scale: 1 being nothing and 10 being near death) is only a 1.5 - 2. I know that seems like nothing, it's just that it aches all day long sometimes. That is more my concern - not the pain itself.

Anyway, he looked at my feet after I mentioned that I supinate more on the left foot. What did he suggest?

Custom orthotics.

So would this be ironic or a coincidence since I was just talking about new inserts? Hmmm. C'mon, you English majors!

Anyway, I'm off to get fitted for one on Monday. Anyone want some inserts for their shoes? Size 9.5 -10.5?

At first I panicked because of the price ($216!), but then I told myself I am willing to try anything to fix this. Plus, it costs me that much just to see my doctor! (My deductible is $2500. For those of you on your parents' insurance plans - STAY there as long as you can! lol). So we'll see if this helps to fix things. In the mean time, I'll continue to do my PT exercises and "ralk," since it doesn't seem to have an effect on the pain.

In the mean time, I have a post coming this weekend that I'm a bit nervous about putting out there. But it's something I'm anxious to get your opinion on, so I promise I won't chicken out. :-)

Today I am thankful for:

- The smell when it first starts to rain (before it smells wormy!)

- Spending time with my nieces, Grace and Clare

- Classical Music (maybe it's dorky, but it kinda relaxes me) ;-)

Good for the Sole

My physical therapist (also a runner) suggested I try Sole Softec Inserts to help with my knee problem.

Interestingly, I checked my running shoes and found something weird. I supinate (my foot rolls out) noticeably more on my left foot than my right. And it's my left knee that is giving me trouble. Surely there is a connection?

Left Foot

Right Foot

It's hard to tell from the pics, but I only ran in these shoes for about 5 weeks before my half-marathon (and during). I'm going to the doctor tomorrow, and I'm anxious to see what he says about this.

Anyway, back to the inserts. Kind of weird, but first you pop 'em in the oven....

...then you put them in your shoes and stand for about 2 minutes (it's supposed to "mold" around your foot).

We'll see if they help! I've been "ralking" (run/walking) 3 times a week, and my knee doesn't bother me hardly at all when I run. I just wish it wouldn't ache during the day! I'll let you know what the doc says tomorrow. :-)

Do you pronate or supinate if you run? Have you ever tried inserts or orthotics?


I am thankful for:

- Hydrangeas

- Space heaters

- My close friendship with my sister, Kristy

Check out:

Missy's E-Cloth Giveaway!

Special K's MacroLife Bar Giveaway!

When Hard Work Pays Off

I will be the first to admit that strength training does not come easily to me. Maybe it's not that it doesn't come easy, but that I have never really enjoyed it. I have to actually give myself pep talks when I go to the gym to lift, something I've never had to do with running.

With my recent knee injury, I've gotten into the routine of doing 3 days a week of strength training. This is probably the first time in my life I've ever been consistent with strength training. Sure, I used to try and lift once or twice a week, but if I skipped it? No biggie.

WELL, let me just tell you - and please sit down - I'm actually starting to enjoy it. I don't know if it's the whole act of it that I enjoy, but I can't tell you how great it feels when I'm finished. Kind of like a long run. Except for the FIRST time in my life, I feel strong.

I've always been the girl with string bean arms who gets teased (lovingly?) for being weak. I've also always envied women who have real strength. In fact, as I watched Serena and Venus Williams battle it out on the court this weekend, I thought - they could seriously kick most guys' asses. That's awesome!

I've slowly increased my weights and the pounds I'm lifting over the past couple of months, and can definitely tell a difference physically. But this weekend, I also had solid proof of my hard work!

Long story short, I bought a TV stand off of Craig's list. I went to get it and the guy wasn't there. Um....wtf?! It was at a storage place, and I tried the door and it actually opened. I only had my parent's van for an hour, so I knew I had to buck it up and do the damn thang.

Well, it took about 15 minutes, but I managed to lift the stand into the back of the van. All by myself! (Look, mom - no hands!) The guy pulled up just as I was leaving (of course) and said, "hmmm, you lifted that in there yourself?" I told him yes, and he said, "well, I'm impressed!" It made me feel so good to know that I'm not that weak girl with string bean arms anymore!

(Yes, I am a wee tad bit obsessed with "Twilight".)

I hope that doesn't come off braggy, but it just goes to show you that you can really surprise yourself in terms of what you can accomplish. I hear runners ALL the time say, "I couldn't even run a mile __ years ago!" Or I hear people say things like, "I was forced to swim when I was injured, now I love it!" (Sadly, I wish that was me.) Me? I was the girl who thought she'd never be strong.

What about you? How have you surprised yourself with your achievements?


Today I am thankful for:

- red, seedless grapes

- flats being in style

- driving with the car windows rolled down