tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57954369390215095282024-03-14T03:12:03.905-04:00Mac&Cheese&PeasAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.comBlogger152125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-29724246039740836882012-08-20T11:19:00.001-04:002012-08-20T11:19:30.400-04:00Tiki Week @ Local 149Hi!! <br />
<br />
I have another fun event to share with you guys! Last Thursday, In conjunction with <a href="http://www.bostonfoodblogs.com/">Boston Food Bloggers</a>, I was welcomed to Tiki Week at<a href="http://www.local149.com/"> Local 149</a>, a restaurant and bar in South Boston, to come in and try their Polynesian inspired appetizers and Tiki drinks. I grabbed my friend Alex, and we headed over to try it out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ayNuz2wYDvQ/UDFao7R_EUI/AAAAAAAADQo/Lm4eqduKeWI/s1600/IMG_1424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ayNuz2wYDvQ/UDFao7R_EUI/AAAAAAAADQo/Lm4eqduKeWI/s640/IMG_1424.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I was blown away by how good the food and drinks were. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mCYsIu5g_6E/UDFUvT2YkQI/AAAAAAAADPI/qj0N6iiF9yg/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mCYsIu5g_6E/UDFUvT2YkQI/AAAAAAAADPI/qj0N6iiF9yg/s640/me.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0JTBwbxTYk/UDFU5AjGnII/AAAAAAAADPQ/AOeBFdfcYk4/s1600/IMG_1437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0JTBwbxTYk/UDFU5AjGnII/AAAAAAAADPQ/AOeBFdfcYk4/s640/IMG_1437.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
This drink was called the Rannygazoo. It was made with R St Barth Rhum, Lime, Pistachio orgeat, and housemade Ginger beer. I loved it! I'm all about anything with ginger beer. It was unlike any drink I've ever tried. I hope to see it offered at more places because I really liked it. Alex ordered the Jeweled Turtle which had R St Barth Rhum, Applejack, Blueberry and Lemon. It was kinda watery, so she ordered a Rannygazoo for her next drink.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2F19zH2W8W8/UDFU6sMZvtI/AAAAAAAADPY/JwnQjdaZd6Y/s1600/IMG_1439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2F19zH2W8W8/UDFU6sMZvtI/AAAAAAAADPY/JwnQjdaZd6Y/s640/IMG_1439.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Since it was Tiki week at the restaurant, they had a special menu. The menu had a special for 3 appetizers for $35. Pretty good deal considering the portions were good sized and the food was amazing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1VbGaWHQI0/UDFdaFuAY2I/AAAAAAAADQ4/Oxkj6LS7DS4/s1600/menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1VbGaWHQI0/UDFdaFuAY2I/AAAAAAAADQ4/Oxkj6LS7DS4/s640/menu.jpg" width="370" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ti6DtfTkvoE/UDFcyJKlxCI/AAAAAAAADQw/4nZUhtoyA1k/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
First up:<br />
<br />
Spicy Lemon and Agave Spare Ribs<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-us5leHC98zU/UDFzvqilmNI/AAAAAAAADR8/GyJNs-gThiw/s1600/IMG_1445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-us5leHC98zU/UDFzvqilmNI/AAAAAAAADR8/GyJNs-gThiw/s640/IMG_1445.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Next:<br />
Mahi mahi Fish Sandwich<br />
Complete with fried plantains, hibiscus flower, and mini drink umbrella. How fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fGFjHakAOoQ/UDF0BLqDG7I/AAAAAAAADSE/lZOK6XBe8Lo/s1600/IMG_1448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fGFjHakAOoQ/UDF0BLqDG7I/AAAAAAAADSE/lZOK6XBe8Lo/s640/IMG_1448.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BQGPihoETMs/UDF0CPpjHZI/AAAAAAAADSM/1BX85etQ8Mk/s1600/IMG_1450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BQGPihoETMs/UDF0CPpjHZI/AAAAAAAADSM/1BX85etQ8Mk/s640/IMG_1450.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and finally, saving the best for last:<br />
Polynesian-style Braised Beef short ribs<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVXQzXG9vwI/UDF0oSAeGWI/AAAAAAAADSU/5cKccmb4ZfA/s1600/IMG_1455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVXQzXG9vwI/UDF0oSAeGWI/AAAAAAAADSU/5cKccmb4ZfA/s640/IMG_1455.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
I didn't get a very good picture, but these were ridiculously good. So tender!<br />
<br />
For dessert we shared a s'mores pie on the recommendation of the waitress. This was unreal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ms6p2UxtZVE/UDF1G842uAI/AAAAAAAADSc/g5AwAhz-xeo/s1600/IMG_1457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ms6p2UxtZVE/UDF1G842uAI/AAAAAAAADSc/g5AwAhz-xeo/s640/IMG_1457.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
soo soo so good. If you ever go to Local 149 I highly recommend this dessert.<br />
<br />
To finish the meal, Alex ordered us two banana infused shots of rum! I think she was really enjoying her first food blogging event. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWlNEk-7mRI/UDF1p4TcjOI/AAAAAAAADSk/iv7RZgjQQh4/s1600/IMG_1458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWlNEk-7mRI/UDF1p4TcjOI/AAAAAAAADSk/iv7RZgjQQh4/s640/IMG_1458.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Thanks, Local 149! I will definitely be back!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Have you ever had Polynesian inspired food?</i> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-73737095702082996402012-08-19T16:45:00.000-04:002012-08-20T09:45:56.841-04:00HLS Highlights!Hellllooo!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.healthylivingsummit.com/">Healthy Living Summit</a> was a giant success. It was fun and informative. I met tons of new people, and I learned more about blogging. If I were to post about everything, it would take several <span style="background-color: white;">days, so for now I'm just going to share some highlights. :)</span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #ffe599; color: black; font-size: large;">HLS Highlights! </span><br />
<br />
<b>Swag Bag Pick-up:</b> Felt like Christmas for crying out loud. I can't believe all the goodies we got from our amazing sponsors. My favorite thing of all was the bright purple Reebok real flex sneakers. OBSESSED. All the food was awesome too, nuts, granola, cereal, all that good stuff. yay!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP0INsyVpBQ/UDEB0Z1ZYbI/AAAAAAAADMo/_mjO_QhqECg/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP0INsyVpBQ/UDEB0Z1ZYbI/AAAAAAAADMo/_mjO_QhqECg/s640/IMG_1498.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://www.greatist.com/">Greatist</a> Discussion:</b><br />
<b> </b>On Friday afternoon, there was a little chat with Derek from the website <a href="http://www.greatist.com/">Greatist</a>. It was pretty informative because this guy, Derek, turned a simple wordpress blog into a huge website that gets 1 million unique visitors a month. I took a few notes in the session. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gS1TGIbKsBU/UDFVyatN49I/AAAAAAAADPg/WMOUn1q5yX8/s1600/IMG_1461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gS1TGIbKsBU/UDFVyatN49I/AAAAAAAADPg/WMOUn1q5yX8/s640/IMG_1461.JPG" width="480" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The key points were: </div>
<ul>
<li>Develop a personality for your blog, make sure it is authentic to you.</li>
<li>Site design is important and powerful. Have an idea of what you want.</li>
<li>Build a network of people you can trust</li>
<li>Be prepared for opportunities, set yourself up for luck and be ready for it</li>
<li>Ask for feedback from readers to give them what they want</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Cocktail Party</b>: We all got one drink ticket to enjoy a free cocktail. I got a nice glass of Pinot Grigio. This was a great way for everyone to mingle and get to know each other before the big day of seminars. It was also fun to get dressed up. They also had a photobooth set up, and I can never pass that up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viANwmR5yuk/UDFFwfgNbWI/AAAAAAAADOI/uUb16Xs7AEo/s1600/crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viANwmR5yuk/UDFFwfgNbWI/AAAAAAAADOI/uUb16Xs7AEo/s640/crop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Blog Photog seminar:</b> This was a seminar run by Gretchen from<a href="http://www.honeyishrunkthegretchen.com/"> Honey I shrunk the Gretchen.</a> She is a photography genuis and shared some of her tips with us. Most of the stuff she went over was helpful for people thinking about getting a dSLR, but might be intimidated by it. I just got my dSLR last December, so I'm still pretty new to it. This was a great session for me to attend because it really reiterated some of the concepts to photography that I have been having trouble remembering.<br />
Some key points:<br />
<ul>
<li>use natural light when shooting whenever possible</li>
<li>try not to use the on-camera flash</li>
<li>invest in a tripod to eliminate shaking</li>
<li>shoot in lowest ISO possible</li>
<li>use lightroom to edit pictures (more affordable than photoshop)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Blog Design seminar: </b>This was hosted by Julie from <a href="http://savvyeat.com/">Savvyeat.com</a>. Since I am in the process of switching to self-hosting, I know my blog will need a complete design make-over. Julie's site looks incredible so I really wanted to hear some of her ideas.<br />
Key Points:<br />
<ul>
<li>make it user friendly</li>
<li>no music!!! </li>
<li>Include: contact info, search feature, subscription, and about page with photo!</li>
<li>side bars must inspire readers to take action</li>
<li>Firefox's firebug is a useful tool for coding, shows you preview of code without changing your blog</li>
</ul>
<b>Crossfit workout: </b>We did a WOD. The workout was only 5 minutes long but I am sore! We did as many reps as possible(AMRAP) of 7 air squats (fancy term for regular deep squats) and 15 jumps. The guys from <a href="http://www.crossfitboston.com/">Crossfit Boston</a> were there, which <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy</a> and I had <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/crossfit-boston-trial-class-slow-cooker.html">met</a> before, as well as some other Crossfit guys from the Boston area. Serious eye candy. Loved it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-odZAhhFX6Yg/UDEAzY7ZWkI/AAAAAAAADMg/K98lFTJm60E/s1600/crossfit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-odZAhhFX6Yg/UDEAzY7ZWkI/AAAAAAAADMg/K98lFTJm60E/s640/crossfit1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Lunch with Kelly O from Fitfluential: </b>This was amazing. I sat down for lunch with <a href="http://www.blondebostonian.com/">Sarah</a>, <a href="http://chelciesfoodfiles.com/">Chelcie</a>, and <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy</a> and guess who came and shared our table? <a href="http://www.kellyolexa.com/">Kelly Olexa</a> the founder of <a href="http://fitfluential.com/">Fitfluential</a>. No big deal. She was just amazing, and very inspiring. She told her story, and talked with us about working with different brands, and just inspired me to work harder and make my dreams happen. She is truly an inpiration. <br />
<br />
<b>Wild Harvest Keynote talk: </b>Wild Harvest was the main sponsor of the event, so they did a little chat about recipes and how more and more people are using them to cook with.<br />
Some stats they shared:<br />
<ul>
<li>Average American reads at 8th or 9th grade reading level, keep this in mind when writing recipes</li>
<li>28% of Americans can't cook</li>
<li>Average person only spends 1.1 hours a day eating</li>
<li>41% of meals cooked are cooked by men!</li>
<li>people consume an average of 139 calories a day from grain-based desserts (granola bars, donuts, cakes, cookies)</li>
<li>When writing a recipe based on someone else's recipe, must make at least 3 significant changes such as:</li>
<ul>
<li> adding or removing an ingredient</li>
<li>changing the procedure in which it is cooked</li>
<li>making a substitution</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Blog Local: </b>This panel was hosted by <a href="http://www.thehealthyeverythingtarian.com/">Holly</a>, <a href="http://mealsandmiles.com/">Meaghann</a>, and <a href="http://fitting-it-all-in.com/">Clare</a>. They basically talked about how to get involved in your local community and take hold of all the opportunities that may be there. Holly talked about pitching yourself to different companies, and gave a step by step process of how it's done. It was really informative.<br />
Key Points:<br />
<ul>
<li>Use your blog as leverage to showcase your skill sets and interests</li>
<li>Say "yes" to new opportunities </li>
<li>Offering to work for free can sometimes pay off in the end! People will see your passion</li>
<li>Be open to constructive criticism</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>5k run along the Charles River: </b>On Sunday morning there was a 5k fun run/walk. Even though my legs were still sore, it felt pretty good to get out there and run. I have always wanted to run along the Charles because it is just so beautiful. I ran with <a href="http://www.blondebostonian.com/">Sarah</a>, who was a very good running partner; we kept a nice slow pace, and chatted about blogging, relationships, and other things. It was definitely a good way to end the summit.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7icHu25s4Q/UDEAHNLxXaI/AAAAAAAADMY/s0tw8-qTA1g/s1600/run+along+charles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7icHu25s4Q/UDEAHNLxXaI/AAAAAAAADMY/s0tw8-qTA1g/s640/run+along+charles.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stole pic from <a href="http://www.fitting-it-all-in.com/">Clare</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I really felt like I was in the right place this weekend, if you know what I mean. Even though I was nervous about meeting new people and I didn't really know what to expect, I had an awesome time. I left there today feeling inspired and empowered to make my blog (and life!) exactly what I want it to be.<br />
<br />
Thanks so much to the entire <a href="http://www.healthylivingsummit.com/">Healthy Living Summit</a> planning committee! You guys really did a great job! Can't wait for next year!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-35355303253065356472012-08-17T09:22:00.004-04:002012-08-17T09:22:46.956-04:00Hey, it's OK....Hello!!<br />
Happy Friday!<br />
This morning was off to a rough start for me. In our apartment we have a washer/dryer combo that is one machine that does both. It's pretty much the bane of my existence. It never dries the clothes! When I asked my landlord if he could fix it, he told me to "shake the moisture out of the clothes." Ummm... what?? Yea, I don't think that's gonna work buddy, but thanks for the tip.<br />
<br />
Anyway...this morning I started a load of laundry and then realized I had another sports bra I needed to wash. I tried to open the door to throw it in and guess what happened? The handle came off in my hand! Now all my clothes are stuck in there! HELP!<br />
<br />
I took a deep breath and tried to convince myself that this wasn't the end of the world. (Dramatic much?) #firstworldproblems<br />
<br />
Following the theme of things-not-going-your-way-but-still-being-ok-with-it, I put together a little list. <br />
(pssssst I stole this idea from <a href="http://www.amazingasset.com/">Tessa</a>, who borrowed it from<a href="http://www.glamour.com/"> Glamour</a> Magazine)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hey, it's ok.....</span><br />
<ul>
<li>to still not be sure what category this blog falls under (healthy
living...food blog....lifestyle...photo journal for my mom to keep up
with my life...?)</li>
<li>to listen to the Florence and the Machine album "Ceremonials" non-stop for 4 months straight and not get sick of it.</li>
<li>to make a to-do list for the weekend that just consists of "Dye hair" and "Make pickles" and not even do either of those things.</li>
<li>to have a degree in Nutrition but not the R.D.credentials. It took me a while to be ok with this, but hey, I'm doing just fine! I've been employed in my field in various hospital jobs since graduating, and I consider myself very lucky, especially in this economy.</li>
<li>to think raw egg protein drinks are gross but have no problem with the raw eggs in cookie dough.</li>
<li>to not have an iPhone (or any other smart phone) yet</li>
<li>to think that Teen Mom is a really good show</li>
</ul>
and there you go. These things are O.K. with me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W35ItSmY1zM/UC5FIdyrIVI/AAAAAAAADLU/fIJeYXKPxEM/s1600/me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W35ItSmY1zM/UC5FIdyrIVI/AAAAAAAADLU/fIJeYXKPxEM/s400/me.JPG" width="350" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
P.S. #<a href="http://www.healthylivingsummit.com/">HLS12</a> today!!! Wicked Excited!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-11584740591305164672012-08-15T21:03:00.001-04:002012-08-15T21:04:32.153-04:00Burger and Sake Night!Hey guys!<br />
I went to a pretty cool event the other night. <a href="http://www.bostonfoodblogs.com/">Boston Food Blogs</a> did a giveaway for two tickets to Burger and Sake Night hosted at Tasty Burger, and I won! I totally didn't expect to win, so it was an awesome surprise when I found out. This event was created by Todd Bellamy, who writes a blog called <a href="http://www.bostonsake.com/">Boston Sake</a>. Check it out because he is new to the Boston Food blog scene and is already doing cool things to bring more Sake in Boston.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A3JVGyNe5Eo/UCrbp8DmzhI/AAAAAAAADEg/44N28o_YEOc/s1600/_MG_16800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A3JVGyNe5Eo/UCrbp8DmzhI/AAAAAAAADEg/44N28o_YEOc/s640/_MG_16800.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Since I won two tickets, I could bring a guest, and I knew just who to bring: CJ! He loves burgers, and hasn't gotten a chance to try Tasty Burger yet. He also really likes Sake.<br />
<br />
Sake has a special meaning to our relationship because the first time I tried Sake was on our first <b>real </b>un-chaperoned date. We went to a Japanese restaurant on Valentine's Day in 2009 and ate heart shaped sushi and drank hot sake. It was much more romantic than our first "date" where we went on a snowmobiling day trip to Vermont with my dad; yup just me, CJ, and my Dad. I can't believe he stuck around with a girl who brings her father as a chaperone on the first date, but he did and he's still here 3.5+ years later. That's your fun fact for the day.<br />
<br />
Anyway, back to Burger and Sake night:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7vAAzaR3m4/UCrbwhKPd6I/AAAAAAAADEo/bov4L4ZPyoc/s1600/_MG_15400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7vAAzaR3m4/UCrbwhKPd6I/AAAAAAAADEo/bov4L4ZPyoc/s640/_MG_15400.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
After <a href="http://www.bostonsake.com/">Todd</a> and the Sake Brewer made a few announcements about the event, the burgers started coming out. Each burger was paired with a different kind of Sake. CJ and I had three burgers between the two of us. What can I say, they kept bring out more burgers, so I kept eating them.:)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-As36jCUW7d8/UCr7jxFGi7I/AAAAAAAADHU/QT6ZEqRF8N8/s1600/_MG_1577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-As36jCUW7d8/UCr7jxFGi7I/AAAAAAAADHU/QT6ZEqRF8N8/s640/_MG_1577.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-swoRDAxZ7mY/UCr7g5oYh2I/AAAAAAAADHM/yBVXBGju_7c/s1600/_MG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-swoRDAxZ7mY/UCr7g5oYh2I/AAAAAAAADHM/yBVXBGju_7c/s640/_MG_1537.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
CJ and I made friends with the photographer hired for the event. Since I'm pretty new to photography with a dSLR, he gave me some basic tips, and then we compared burger pictures. His picture was probably a little better, but then again, I'm not a professional ;).<br />
My favorite burger was the one with mushrooms and aioli and it was paired with an earthy tasting Sake. It worked well with the mushrooms. Delish!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7tem_g3ne4k/UCrbyssqe2I/AAAAAAAADEw/bJQTWExm2ro/s1600/_MG_15660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7tem_g3ne4k/UCrbyssqe2I/AAAAAAAADEw/bJQTWExm2ro/s640/_MG_15660.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I tried two kinds of Sake, one was fruity, and the other was more earthy. The earthy one was aged longer to give it a deeper flavor. I preferred the fruity one, but
they were both pretty good. I haven't had too many experiences with
Sake, so I'm still getting acquainted with the taste. I think I might
be starting to like it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SD1VUGKJg4c/UCr9D-oW5pI/AAAAAAAADH0/s6HWJWah9w8/s1600/_MG_1542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SD1VUGKJg4c/UCr9D-oW5pI/AAAAAAAADH0/s6HWJWah9w8/s640/_MG_1542.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The Sake was served in these cute little cups. It was the perfect amount for sampling.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBahOemjPRI/UCr9Ab9vafI/AAAAAAAADHs/kEPkTLw3oSU/s1600/_MG_1539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBahOemjPRI/UCr9Ab9vafI/AAAAAAAADHs/kEPkTLw3oSU/s640/_MG_1539.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Along with the canned Sake and Burgers, they also served a Pineapple Shake. I drank three or four before CJ informed me that they had Sake in them. After that, I tried to slow down a little bit because I didn't want to get accidentally drunk on a Monday night. I loved the little cups and the colorful straws, so cute and yummy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYzchbcZ3Z4/UCrb0hlHCAI/AAAAAAAADE4/Uy3P8Nu52nE/s1600/_MG_15755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYzchbcZ3Z4/UCrb0hlHCAI/AAAAAAAADE4/Uy3P8Nu52nE/s640/_MG_15755.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wwAOL9ucyI/UCr8VzblT0I/AAAAAAAADHc/8XApMh0aEGI/s1600/_MG_1576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wwAOL9ucyI/UCr8VzblT0I/AAAAAAAADHc/8XApMh0aEGI/s640/_MG_1576.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHcdPyT1-p8/UCr8ZKBvdbI/AAAAAAAADHk/_6wkEwIkZMc/s1600/_MG_1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHcdPyT1-p8/UCr8ZKBvdbI/AAAAAAAADHk/_6wkEwIkZMc/s640/_MG_1578.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I had so much fun sampling the Sake, guzzling the pineapple shakes,
and chowing down on some burgers. It was nice to be able to bring CJ to a
Boston foodie event, and this one in particular was right up his alley.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8GjCLvtSYpU/UCxGBWE8WjI/AAAAAAAADJ8/5O6nUH9tGGA/s1600/_MG_1604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8GjCLvtSYpU/UCxGBWE8WjI/AAAAAAAADJ8/5O6nUH9tGGA/s640/_MG_1604.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5PXvI3xSxWw/UCxGGiUUGYI/AAAAAAAADKE/7Y-LBaR81vU/s1600/_MG_1665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5PXvI3xSxWw/UCxGGiUUGYI/AAAAAAAADKE/7Y-LBaR81vU/s640/_MG_1665.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for the invite, Todd! I look forward to the next food + Sake event.:)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>Do you like Sake? Have you ever been to a tasting?</i> </b>This was my first Sake tasting, and I've been to a few beer tastings, but I have always wanted to go to a wine tasting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-46244603026098431542012-08-15T07:11:00.000-04:002012-08-15T07:11:08.080-04:00WIAW: Snacking Staples<center>
</center>
<center>
<br /><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihIT6bbag1U/UBb8k5XwZpI/AAAAAAAAHCE/1qe-qs387gA/s1600/wiaw+what+i+ate+wednesday+august+party+button+2012.jpg" /></a></center>
<br />
Hello!<br />
I've been slacking for a few weeks, but this week I'm back at the ole' "What I Ate Wednesday." This month, Jenn, at <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/">Peas and Crayons</a> is doing a theme of "Summer Staples," so I included all my usual snacks such as bananas, almonds, granola bars, and baby carrots. All the food here was consumed on Tuesday, August 14.<br />
<br />
Breakfast: Multigrain Bagel from DD and Hazlenut Coffee. I didn't feel like having oatmeal today so I got a bagel from Dunkin with veggie cream cheese. Yum!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rMynYyHsV7s/UCr4C81F39I/AAAAAAAADGs/v8FuENUeoJM/s1600/IMG_1403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rMynYyHsV7s/UCr4C81F39I/AAAAAAAADGs/v8FuENUeoJM/s640/IMG_1403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cVgIpDKAth8/UCr4EC6YtcI/AAAAAAAADG0/7sn757qimPU/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cVgIpDKAth8/UCr4EC6YtcI/AAAAAAAADG0/7sn757qimPU/s640/IMG_1404.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Snack 1: Banana<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eb_uRRmo6YY/UCr3UL5zE5I/AAAAAAAADF8/-sJNmqEB2zU/s1600/_MG_0417+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eb_uRRmo6YY/UCr3UL5zE5I/AAAAAAAADF8/-sJNmqEB2zU/s640/_MG_0417+-+Copy.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lunch: Turkey Wrap with baby spinach, roasted red pepper hummus, and pepper jack cheese<br />
Carrot Sticks on the side<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Eu2gIW5YRc/UCr3i8jEHgI/AAAAAAAADGE/tf6GUm3dPws/s1600/IMG_1406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Eu2gIW5YRc/UCr3i8jEHgI/AAAAAAAADGE/tf6GUm3dPws/s640/IMG_1406.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62YWS0redm0/UCr3j2mCQLI/AAAAAAAADGM/wBH31RqQsis/s1600/IMG_1408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62YWS0redm0/UCr3j2mCQLI/AAAAAAAADGM/wBH31RqQsis/s640/IMG_1408.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGRqdNaLxNQ/UCr3lZd2lcI/AAAAAAAADGU/8ZGGkwpofx4/s1600/IMG_1410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGRqdNaLxNQ/UCr3lZd2lcI/AAAAAAAADGU/8ZGGkwpofx4/s640/IMG_1410.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Snack 2: TJ's Apple Cereal Bar. I have never tried these bars before, but I liked them. They taste just like nutri-grain bars.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XujcUHkki5Y/UCr3vor77fI/AAAAAAAADGc/esFTBkpQxzU/s1600/IMG_1412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XujcUHkki5Y/UCr3vor77fI/AAAAAAAADGc/esFTBkpQxzU/s640/IMG_1412.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Snack 3: handful of raw almonds. I love raw almonds! I wish they weren't so expensive.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LdCr4DkYyck/UCr3xGpRJDI/AAAAAAAADGk/cJbbcvVJOc0/s1600/IMG_1413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LdCr4DkYyck/UCr3xGpRJDI/AAAAAAAADGk/cJbbcvVJOc0/s640/IMG_1413.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
Snack 4: Pre-run snack- another Apple Bar (same thing as above)<br />
For my workout, I ran 3 miles in 28 minutes and 51 seconds.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXWvGMo_-FM/UCuB9yEGaMI/AAAAAAAADI8/whYJ8GD3m9I/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXWvGMo_-FM/UCuB9yEGaMI/AAAAAAAADI8/whYJ8GD3m9I/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Dinner: Tofu Stir fry with Jasmine Rice and roasted chickpeas on the side.<br />
I'm addicted to roasted chickpeas. They are so tasty and easy to make. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mc7vYzDJQAc/UCr5YhoEfNI/AAAAAAAADG8/1Ik6aM69Xq8/s1600/_MG_1744%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mc7vYzDJQAc/UCr5YhoEfNI/AAAAAAAADG8/1Ik6aM69Xq8/s640/_MG_1744%5B1%5D.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
Drink: Blood Orange Soda from TJ's. I don't drink a ton of soda, but it's nice to have it once in a while. This blood orange flavor from TJ's is awesome. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvf4BNogzgg/UCr6VazXX6I/AAAAAAAADHE/Thsyn9PrIb0/s1600/_MG_1758%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvf4BNogzgg/UCr6VazXX6I/AAAAAAAADHE/Thsyn9PrIb0/s640/_MG_1758%5B1%5D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Wow, no chocolate today...that might be a first!<br />
<br />
Hope you have a great Wednesday!<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-30676263504062475722012-08-12T17:05:00.000-04:002012-08-12T17:05:30.192-04:00Halfway to the Half Marathon: Training UpdateHi! Hope your Sunday is going well.<br />
<br />
Remember when I said I was going to <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/half-marathon-training-plan.html">update you</a> at the end of the first 5 weeks of my half marathon training? Well, that time is here already! Time really is flying by....<br />
<br />
I can't believe I'm halfway through my training. So far, it's been going pretty well, and I've only made some minor changes to my SmartCoach Training plan.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>What I was supposed to do:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sVTjbOE7LC4/UCfwcX6cSQI/AAAAAAAADBs/BsD1k_7ghA8/s1600/training+plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sVTjbOE7LC4/UCfwcX6cSQI/AAAAAAAADBs/BsD1k_7ghA8/s640/training+plan.png" width="608" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>What I actually did:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Week 1:</b> I struggled with the long run this week and only did 5 miles instead of 8, everything else I completed. Total miles: <b>14</b><br />
<b>Week 2</b>: I did pretty good this week. I just didn't do the speedwork on Thursday, instead I did a short 2 mile run and a 3 mile walk. Total miles: <b>15</b><br />
<b>Week 3:</b> This week was tough for the plan. I struggled with the 9 mile run, and instead did a 5 mile run with a 1 mile walk. Total miles: <b>12</b><br />
<b>Week 4:</b> The only thing I tweaked in this week was running 4 miles instead of 5 on Thursday. I even ran 10 miles in the rain on Sunday! Total miles: <b>18</b><br />
<b>Week 5:</b> This was a mile cut-back week and I took that a little too far. I only completed 3 runs for a total of <b>11</b> miles. <br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>How I'm feeling:</b><br />
<br />
I'm feeling pretty confident about being able to complete the half marathon at this point. I know it's going to be tough, but I have a couple longs runs under my belt at this point so I'm feeling prepared. I have been<b> struggling</b> with the heat. I usually run in the evenings and even then it has still been really hot. I did get a <a href="http://www.macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/08/new-running-gear-slow-cooker-winner.html">running belt</a> with a water bottle so that has been helping as far as hydration goes. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lUn3WjDrSdE/UCgaS0On-vI/AAAAAAAADCo/LUtdxS0rL3M/s1600/me+today.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lUn3WjDrSdE/UCgaS0On-vI/AAAAAAAADCo/LUtdxS0rL3M/s320/me+today.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I have been running mostly outside, which is good, because I'm getting to run on lots of hills. I'm not sure how many hills will be on the course, but I will be prepared for them. I also took my first ice bath after my 10 mile run last week and it was definitely helpful, I wasn't sore at all the next day. I'm going to try to do that more. I've been foam rolling a lot too, and trying to do as much as I can to keep my muscles happy. <br />
<br />
Today a new concern popped into my head about the half marathon start time. I mentioned that I have been running mostly at night, and the race starts at 7 am. I once read that it's important to train at the time the race will be starting. I think this week I will try to run at least once in the morning, and in the following weeks, I'm going to try to do my long runs earlier than I have been doing them. <b>Why does this matter? </b>It matters for me because it changes how I will fuel. Usually when I run at night, I have had plenty to eat throughout the day, I've had a chance to go to the bathroom (sorry- gross-but important!) and I usually have time to have a little carby snack before running. Running first thing in the morning is going to require changes to my little routine. I'll need to fuel up properly pretty early before going out to run. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>What I'm looking forward too:</b><br />
This will be my first half marathon, so I'm looking forward to getting bragging rights. I can't wait to buy a t-shirt, head band, and bumper sticker that all say "13.1". I think I might even get a tattoo as well as a reminder of what I've accomplished. Ok, totally kidding on that last one! Don't worry Mom!<b> </b><br />
<br />
But seriously, I can't wait to run it! I know it will be fun because I know a ton of people running it.<br />
<a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy</a>, Shaina, Hannah, Yulia, and Tara (I think) will all be there with me. What could be better??<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Have you ever run a half marathon? Do you like running with friends? Have you been struggling to run in the heat this summer?</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-51250699345612524792012-08-11T11:25:00.000-04:002012-08-11T11:25:14.811-04:00Cafe Burrito Blogger EventHi Guys!<br />
There's a new burrito place in Belmont called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cafeburrito">Cafe Burrito</a>, and I got to go try out the menu before it even opened. I was invited by <a href="http://www.thefoodinmybeard.com/">Dan</a>, (the manager/creator/head chef/brains-behind-the-operation) to go check it out and taste some items from the menu, so I grabbed my BBB (best blogging buddy) <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy</a> and we headed over. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6a0UmZheBVs/UCYbY2EtekI/AAAAAAAAC8I/Eig4dTyP0nw/s1600/IMG_01477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6a0UmZheBVs/UCYbY2EtekI/AAAAAAAAC8I/Eig4dTyP0nw/s640/IMG_01477.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Cafe Burrito is not only a burrito joint, they will also serve all sorts of caffienated beverages (hence the "Cafe" part) like coffee, espresso, tea, and soda, along with smoothies (fruit and coffee based) and pastries during the morning hours. The burritos and tacos are available at starting at lunch time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6val7sHTU8U/UCYbvt39Q9I/AAAAAAAAC8Q/iOtlXp8Q250/s1600/IMG_01455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6val7sHTU8U/UCYbvt39Q9I/AAAAAAAAC8Q/iOtlXp8Q250/s640/IMG_01455.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I really liked the colorful and fun atmosphere of this place. I felt right at home joining the other bloggers who came to the event.<a href="http://www.kathycancook.com/"> Kathy</a>, <a href="http://forkitoverboston.blogspot.com/">Rachel</a>, <a href="http://cavecibum.blogspot.com/">Pam,</a><a href="http://eatingplaces.wordpress.com/"> Liz</a>, and <a href="http://www.confessionsofachocoholic.com/">Bianca</a> were all in attendence, some I had met at <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/maggianos-little-italy-boston-food.html">Maggiano's</a> and some were new faces. I was really excited to finally meet Bianca, because I have been reading her blog, <a href="http://www.confessionsofachocoholic.com/">Confessions of a Chocoholic</a>, for a while now. Everyone was really nice, and I got to learn more about the Boston Food Blogger scene, which is definitely interesting (<a href="http://boston.dinerenblanc.info/about.php">Diner en Blanc</a>- what??). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-UJwVdmofg/UCZ0Ko3Vl2I/AAAAAAAAC9M/dLxbGQQw3lw/s1600/IMG_01500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-UJwVdmofg/UCZ0Ko3Vl2I/AAAAAAAAC9M/dLxbGQQw3lw/s640/IMG_01500.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Dan started us off with a selection of salsas and some tortilla chips. My absolute favorite salsa was the Peach Basil salsa, it's funny how basil seems to go with everything. After some chips, salsa, and peach sangria (sorry- not on the menu) we sampled some tacos. We each tried one beef and one chicken taco. While they were both delicious in their own way, I really liked the beef, it was marinated in coffee grounds and that gave it a really interesting taste. The beef taco also had pickled vegetables on top, which isn't something you can get at any old burrito place. The chicken was really tasty too, and served with shredded lettuce, cheese, and sweet corn.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-amibp9a3jK8/UCZ1cCkKerI/AAAAAAAAC9U/qNPgZOhNtA0/s1600/IMG_016222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-amibp9a3jK8/UCZ1cCkKerI/AAAAAAAAC9U/qNPgZOhNtA0/s640/IMG_016222.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After being stuffed almost to the limit, Dan brought out another two dishes for us to try. This one (I forget the name) was a fusion between a grilled cheese and a quesadilla. It was made on thicker bread than a quesadilla, but sliced into triangles. We tried two flavors, the first one was tomato, basil, and mozz:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dV50nY3-IFk/UCZ2VS_1_PI/AAAAAAAAC9c/YzGdL0_juaI/s1600/IMG_01666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dV50nY3-IFk/UCZ2VS_1_PI/AAAAAAAAC9c/YzGdL0_juaI/s640/IMG_01666.jpg" width="582" /></a></div>
and the second was a Cubano type with beef, ham, cheese, pickled vegetables, and mustard:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vOtrFBFfos/UCZ27slTi4I/AAAAAAAAC9k/SY9XIUgVPSU/s1600/IMG_01688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vOtrFBFfos/UCZ27slTi4I/AAAAAAAAC9k/SY9XIUgVPSU/s640/IMG_01688.jpg" width="564" /></a></div>
Even though Belmont isn't very close to me, I hope to be able to come back and try the food again. The food was awesome, and I could tell a lot of thought went into each item on the menu. If you live or work in the area, it's definitely worth checking out!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlALvp6RBU0/UCZ4CmygigI/AAAAAAAAC9s/n4ee1Jf8Hfw/s1600/IMG_017111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlALvp6RBU0/UCZ4CmygigI/AAAAAAAAC9s/n4ee1Jf8Hfw/s640/IMG_017111.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
Thanks again for hosting, Dan! I wish you luck and success in this venture.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-36960977232239807712012-08-07T09:26:00.000-04:002012-08-07T09:26:05.996-04:00Clam Chowdah on a Summer NightHello!<br />
<br />
I love when CJ comes up with a good idea for dinner that I wouldn't think of with myself. Clam Chowder in the middle of summer? Sure! We made this about a week ago on a chilly rainy evening, and it was the perfect complement to a movie night on the couch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3FYYz_SSms/UCA_jCufKsI/AAAAAAAAC5o/MmYZxQ3-P4Q/s1600/_MG_0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3FYYz_SSms/UCA_jCufKsI/AAAAAAAAC5o/MmYZxQ3-P4Q/s640/_MG_0849.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
For some reason, I always thought Clam Chowder was hard to make, but it's actually incredibly easy and not very time consuming. Give this recipe a try!<br />
<br />
<br />
Classic Clam Chowder Recipe<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">4 slices bacon, diced</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
1 chopped </span><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook0w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: black; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">onion</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">1/2 cup chopped celery</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
1 1/2 cups water</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
3 1/2 cups cubed red potatoes with skin</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
1 1/2 teaspoons </span><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook1w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: black; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">salt</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
ground black pepper to taste</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
3 cups half-and-half</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">3 tablespoons </span><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook2w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: black; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">butter</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">
2 (10 ounce) cans minced clams</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Directions:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Chop up the bacon, and cook in a large pot. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEKU12pGgWs/UCBApNTmAWI/AAAAAAAAC6g/wqvCK5aByzQ/s1600/_MG_0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEKU12pGgWs/UCBApNTmAWI/AAAAAAAAC6g/wqvCK5aByzQ/s640/_MG_0799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
While the bacon is cooking, chop up all the vegetables.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gx_7jT-HNls/UCA_1PFoeyI/AAAAAAAAC5w/5OTBAI5CK8o/s1600/_MG_0802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gx_7jT-HNls/UCA_1PFoeyI/AAAAAAAAC5w/5OTBAI5CK8o/s640/_MG_0802.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have you ever seen a cuter potato in your life?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LRCZ-8eCp9c/UCA_9JIwqKI/AAAAAAAAC6I/uG638qnVkfk/s1600/_MG_0814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LRCZ-8eCp9c/UCA_9JIwqKI/AAAAAAAAC6I/uG638qnVkfk/s640/_MG_0814.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Check out the pink knife that CJ got me. He really knows the way to a woman's heart; colorful cutlery!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kezX09LhXtg/UCA_3nMuLyI/AAAAAAAAC54/yzvFIzvKWGM/s1600/_MG_0804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kezX09LhXtg/UCA_3nMuLyI/AAAAAAAAC54/yzvFIzvKWGM/s640/_MG_0804.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKgXYQg3t0U/UCBAr5ILh7I/AAAAAAAAC6o/OWFeVkNH04Y/s1600/_MG_0806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKgXYQg3t0U/UCBAr5ILh7I/AAAAAAAAC6o/OWFeVkNH04Y/s640/_MG_0806.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Dump all the veggies in the pot to with the bacon, and add in the clam juice and the water. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dTwG2OPBN9M/UCA_6RjbfbI/AAAAAAAAC6A/Z0PXOE8nN4s/s1600/_MG_0812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dTwG2OPBN9M/UCA_6RjbfbI/AAAAAAAAC6A/Z0PXOE8nN4s/s640/_MG_0812.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Cook for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Then add in the half and half, butter, and the clams. Cook for another 10 minutes and remove from heat. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SK9cZUYQus/UCBAAkAnXJI/AAAAAAAAC6Q/rnnbiS1kvu0/s1600/_MG_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SK9cZUYQus/UCBAAkAnXJI/AAAAAAAAC6Q/rnnbiS1kvu0/s640/_MG_0832.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Let the chowder sit for about 15 minutes to thicken before serving.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl9tI9mpLWI/UCBAEJW6yMI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/NOZ8pDRnm2I/s1600/_MG_0833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl9tI9mpLWI/UCBAEJW6yMI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/NOZ8pDRnm2I/s640/_MG_0833.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Enjoy with bread for dipping, and a glass of white wine! <br />
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-54770245825538147802012-08-06T11:53:00.002-04:002012-08-06T11:53:41.809-04:00New Running Gear & Slow Cooker Winner!Hi Guys!<br />
Hope you all had a good weekend!<br />
<br />
I have been struggling to get in my long runs for my half marathon training because it's just been so hot. According to my training plan I was scheduled to run 10 miles on Sunday. I knew I wouldn't be able to do that without water so I went out an bought a fuel and water belt. #runningnerd.<br />
<br />
After debating between two different styles I picked the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nathan-Swift-Waist-Pack-Grey/dp/B004J48J9W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344263061&sr=8-1&keywords=nathan+swift+energy+belt">Nathan swift energy belt</a>. It was a little pricey ($35 at Dick's sporting goods) but I really needed it! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YsorRFAooBs/UB7IohjwvwI/AAAAAAAAC3o/J7BKhvda6Wo/s1600/_MG_1314%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YsorRFAooBs/UB7IohjwvwI/AAAAAAAAC3o/J7BKhvda6Wo/s640/_MG_1314%5B1%5D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
It holds 8 oz of water, has a mesh pocket for energy gels, keys, and maybe a cell phone. The belt part is a little bit stretchy so I figured that would be more comfortable since it would move with me.<br />
<br />
At about 6:30 yesterday, I filled up the little water bottle, took an energy gel, and strapped on the fuel belt and headed outside. I was feeling pretty inspired after watching the some of the Olympic running events that I wanted to push myself to complete the 10 miles. I also had a brand new playlist so that really helped too.<br />
<br />
It was sprinkling a little bit when I left my house, but I didn't mind since it was still pretty hot and humid out. At about mile 6, it started to rain a little heavier. I had a feeling that might happen so I put my ipod in a plastic bag so it didn't get damaged. Running in the rain isn't bad if you're in the mood for it. Honestly, it was fine because it cooled me off. <br />
<br />
I finished 10 miles in 1 hour and 42 minutes with an average pace of 10:13. I just realized Nike + shows you your splits along with the negative of positive change. Very helpful and interesting. I was surprised that mile 4 was my fastest, I would have thought it would be mile 1 since I usually start out fast and then burn out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jL4FcSdQ9Lk/UB_MJdB6AZI/AAAAAAAAC4o/8rVI709Egwk/s1600/splits.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jL4FcSdQ9Lk/UB_MJdB6AZI/AAAAAAAAC4o/8rVI709Egwk/s400/splits.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After the run, I came home and started filling the bathtub with cold water. While it was filling I stretched and foam rolled. I recently purchased a purple Thera-roll (reminds me of Thera-flu), which is the second firmest version, and has ridges in it to get deeper into your muscles. I like it, but I will say it doesn't roll as easily as the regular ones, so you have to roll a little slower.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZNm08Bqpsg/UB_LN9pk-rI/AAAAAAAAC4g/MKuyacDo0pM/s1600/thera-roll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZNm08Bqpsg/UB_LN9pk-rI/AAAAAAAAC4g/MKuyacDo0pM/s400/thera-roll.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003XX5D58/ref=s9_simh_gw_p364_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=04MBXQFH6F1F3MB119B8&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When the tub was full I dumped in all the ice cubes we had and then sat in there for about 10-15 minutes. It wasn't as cold as I would have liked but it did the trick! I'm not sore today at all! Yay!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now on to the Slow cooker winner!! Slimkicker chose Martha's challenge!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEBhrmYIdTU/UB_N1L0H04I/AAAAAAAAC4w/fNIs83y2vRY/s1600/martha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEBhrmYIdTU/UB_N1L0H04I/AAAAAAAAC4w/fNIs83y2vRY/s640/martha.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Congrats Martha! To collect your prize, please email team@slimkicker.com<br />
<br />
Thanks so much to everyone who entered my giveaway!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-31478766733224256942012-08-03T17:52:00.003-04:002012-08-04T07:47:20.889-04:00What I've Learned from the CSA so far..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hi Everyone!<br />
<br />
Today is <b>National Watermelon Day</b>!! Don't let this picture fool you, I actually despise watermelon. I'm only smiling because I have plans to throw it off a roof later. muahahaha.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErB83GPFJa0/UBsnl8PWluI/AAAAAAAACzo/exGbhWgTc6I/s1600/watermleon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErB83GPFJa0/UBsnl8PWluI/AAAAAAAACzo/exGbhWgTc6I/s640/watermleon.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Before you say I'm crazy, let me tell you that I'm not the only person who hates watermelon, CJ hates it too (match made in heaven?). If you want to join our watermelon-haters club, please email me. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BigSfWa4zbg/UBsopyYxyOI/AAAAAAAACzw/SdFQ3U96TSA/s1600/_MG_0859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BigSfWa4zbg/UBsopyYxyOI/AAAAAAAACzw/SdFQ3U96TSA/s640/_MG_0859.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Just kidding, this watermelon won't be harmed, I'll probably give it to my mom. :)</b></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">As some of you may know, I joined the Farm Direct Co-op's Farm share program this year, and have been receiving a weekly share of locally grown fruits and vegetables. It's been a really great way to incorporate more veggies into my diet, and I've enjoyed learning how to cook with different vegetables that I probably wouldn't buy on my own. I knew joining the CSA was a good decision from the start, so I compiled a list of things I've learned so far:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>What a<a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/06/csa-pick-up-2-1-ugly-vegetable-and-1.html"> Kohlrabi</a> is, and <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/06/dads-birthday-fathers-day-celebrations.html">how to eat one</a> </b></li>
</ul>
<b></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn7mCGBJuCM/UBvbbclaKvI/AAAAAAAAC04/Z04BEjDSpAQ/s1600/kohlrabi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn7mCGBJuCM/UBvbbclaKvI/AAAAAAAAC04/Z04BEjDSpAQ/s640/kohlrabi.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><b>What IPM means. </b> I figured that most of the food coming from
the Farm Share would be organic. While the Farm Direct Co-Op strives to
provide as much organic fruits and veggies as possible, the increased
desire for more variety and the difficult growing season in New England,
has lead them to choose IPM farmers whenever organic is not available.
IPM or Integrated Pest Management basically means they only spray when
they have to, and they try to use the least toxic chemicals possible. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8PWSHlzrN_4/UBspRuYwURI/AAAAAAAACz4/biV5k66s7mU/s1600/_MG_0881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8PWSHlzrN_4/UBspRuYwURI/AAAAAAAACz4/biV5k66s7mU/s640/_MG_0881.JPG" width="425" /></a> </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Organic vegetables go bad faster than store-bought non-organic produce.</b> The week I got awesome colored carrots, I didn't eat them fast enough and they started to get soft and bendy. I was surprised because when I buy baby carrots at the store they are usually good for 2+ weeks. I did a little research and I found that some pesticides can act as preservatives and some foods like GMO's (genetically modified organisms) can actually be bred to last longer. </li>
</ul>
<ul></ul>
<ul>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6047rlko5hc/UBsrBjfPGnI/AAAAAAAAC0A/EXSTeSR_9LI/s1600/_MG_0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6047rlko5hc/UBsrBjfPGnI/AAAAAAAAC0A/EXSTeSR_9LI/s640/_MG_0868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><b>Eating locally grown produce is not as limited as I thought. </b>The variety of produce I've gotten is amazing. For fruits, there have been blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, watermelon, cantaloupe, and red currants. I don't like to buy berries at the grocery store because they are super expensive so this has been amazing for me to increase my berry intake. We have received so many different kinds of vegetables, too. The list goes on and on from radishes, beets, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, all sorts of greens (kale, bok choy, spinach, lettuce, napa cabbage, pointy head cabbage, red lead lettuce, basil), kohlrabi, garlic, carrots, potatoes, turnips, eggplant, corn, and more. I haven't needed to buy any vegetables from the grocery store, and that has been a time and money saver. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GeYgwiQmul8/UBxG1_wGK0I/AAAAAAAAC1w/SNSbwQi2bgI/s1600/Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GeYgwiQmul8/UBxG1_wGK0I/AAAAAAAAC1w/SNSbwQi2bgI/s640/Collage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><b>Eating seasonally makes you more appreciative of certain fruits and vegetables. </b>In the grocery store world, seasons only matter so much. When fruits and vegetables are being shipped from all over the world, more varieties are available, but it makes the quality go down. With the CSA, I got to experience strawberries picked at the peak of their ripeness. I definitely noticed a difference from store bought ones. The CSA strawberries were a lot smaller and went bad faster, but the smell and taste were unbelievable! I've experienced the same thing with tomatoes. I used to dislike tomatoes, but that was because most of the tomatoes I had were from grocery stores and had tough skin and pale red color. The CSA tomatoes on the other hand, are juicy and flavorful. When produce is picked or harvested at a farm a few miles away and brought to my town, it's incredible how much better things taste. I definitely have a higher appreciation for eating seasonally now, you can't beat it! </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bD7v_3UIun8/UBxHZsWrbpI/AAAAAAAAC14/iUxKfu2vQuQ/s1600/_MG_0855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bD7v_3UIun8/UBxHZsWrbpI/AAAAAAAAC14/iUxKfu2vQuQ/s640/_MG_0855.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The farm share season is only halfway through so I can't wait to see what else we get. I'm super excited to see what we get in September and October. It will be awesome to get apples, and pumpkins, and other fall fruits and veggies..<br />
<br />
I hope this convinces you to think about joining a CSA next season, or at least to start your own garden. Even though Farm shares can be pricey, I think it's totally worth every penny. It's great to have a fridge stocked with fresh fruits and veggies, and to reduce your carbon footprint. It's a win-win!<br />
<br />
<i>Have you ever participated in a CSA? What's your favorite fall fruit or vegetable? </i><br />
<ul>
</ul>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-16468732616653166962012-08-03T09:41:00.003-04:002012-08-03T09:41:33.784-04:00Interview with Rachel Cossar, Boston Ballet Dancer & Foodista on PointeI met Rachel at the <a href="http://www.bostonfoodblogs.com/">Boston Food Blogger's</a> dinner at <a href="http://www.maggianoscom/">Maggiano's </a>a couple of weeks ago. I was intrigued to learn that she dances with the <a href="http://www.bostonballet.org/">Boston Ballet.</a> Pretty much my dream job. In addition to dancing professionally, she also writes a food blog called<a href="http://www.foodistaonpointe.com/"> Foodista on Pointe</a> which makes her one of the most interesting people ever. I knew I had to take the opportunity and see if she would allow me to interview her, and she did! Ahhhh!<br />
<br />
We planned to meet at <a href="http://www.diesel-cafe.com/">Deisel Cafe</a> in Davis Square for coffee and conversation. I recorded the interview with the voice memo feature on my ipod, and then typed it up. It took me a while to get it up here, so I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed chatting with Rachel. :) <br />
<br />
I really liked what she had to say when I asked her if she had any advice for aspiring ballet dancers, I found it very inspirational, and also relate-able to most things in life, and not just ballet. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btuGxK7fl8A/UBsldB4obqI/AAAAAAAACzg/SfklKliQXm4/s1600/rachelandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-btuGxK7fl8A/UBsldB4obqI/AAAAAAAACzg/SfklKliQXm4/s640/rachelandi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Amy: When did you start dancing?</b><br />
Rachel: I started dancing, as in running around a studio, when I was 3, but I didn't actually move into a more professional field until grade 5, and that was in Toronto, where I'm from. I was always doing rhythmic gymnastics and ballet at the same time, so it was always a balance between the two, and sometimes one of them would take precedence over the other. It wasn't until I moved to Boston, 6 years ago, that I was really like, "I'm going to do the Ballet now."<br />
<br />
<b>A: I was going to ask if you had ever done other types of dance, but you mentioned did rhythmic gymnastics, too?</b><br />
R: Yes, Rhythmic gymnastics is...the most esthetic of sports, it's the one with the ribbons, and balls. I always did both of those [Ballet and rhythmic gymnastics] full time, it was always a bit of a struggle. I always had a full plate.<br />
<br />
<b>A: How long have you been dancing with the Boston Ballet?</b><br />
R: I've been on contract with them for 3 years, I'm going into my fourth season with the company. When I moved to Boston 6 years ago, I was moving to join the school. There's the company, and there's the school, and at the top level of the school they have the trainee program, which is basically like when you graduate school, you have all day dancing, you work a little bit with the company, but you also do your own things, so that's what I joined 6 years ago.<br />
<br />
<b>A: So you started with the [school]?</b><br />
R: Yes, It was really important to my formation as a dancer, because at that point I was really more of a gymnast, so I needed those 2 years to transition into more of a ballet-focus<br />
<br />
<b>A: What is your favorite show to do? I love the Nutcracker:</b><br />
R: The Nutcracker is funny because it happens every year, and at Boston Ballet it's a huge thing, we do it for 5 weeks, this year we are doing 43 shows, so it's extensive, and you barely get over it from the past year and all of a sudden it's there again. Dancer's generally have mixed feelings on the Nutcracker because we all understand that it's important, it's a tradition, it's what a lot of people associate with Ballet, as it's the most popular one. But, really what I love the most is the stuff that we do before and after the Nutcracker in the season. I really love the more contemporary stuff. <br />
<br />
<b>A: Are you in the off season right now?</b><br />
R: Yup, our 2011-2012 season finished on the 20th of May, all throughout the summer, we don't have any shows or anything, we are on lay-off. The season actually starts tomorrow(7/30), which is just crazy, because you kind of lose momentum, you totally get out of that mind-frame and schedule, and then to all of a sudden be thrown back into it again. You try to stay in shape, but there's only so much you can do to simulate 7 hours of dancing.<br />
<br />
<b>A: What is the training schedule like?</b><br />
R: We have two different schedules, we have one that is our rehearsal schedule, so when we aren't preforming, we rehearse from Monday through Friday, and we start with a class at 9:45 and we finish at 6:30pm. Once we start preforming, we go from Tuesday to Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday being just rehearsal days, and then Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, we have shows, and then Monday is our day off. It gets rough, especially once we have been preforming for a while. The nice thing about our preformance schedule is that, because we go later in the evening, we don't start til later in the day. Sometimes we will have class at 11:45.<br />
<b>A: So you get to sleep in?</b><br />
R: Yea, it is really important.<br />
<br />
<b>A: You said in the off season it's hard to simulate what you do in training, so what do you do to work out?</b><br />
R: Generally, I just try to take [ballet] class everyday in the morning, and then as we get closer to our start date, I'll try to maybe take more than 1 class a day, or I go to yoga every now and then, and just try to my own workout, we have a little gym at the ballet that I can use, all the dancers can use, it's really good. Some dancers have these kind of guesting networks set up, kind of like freelancing, so they will get these little projects, which is really amazing, because you maintain that performance feel of working towards something specific, as opposed to just being like "I'm going to give myself a pat on the shoulder for being in class today." You don't really push yourself very hard, because you're like "well, I'm on vacation." <br />
<br />
<b>A: What is your favorite thing about being a ballet dancer?</b><br />
R: There are a few things that I love, I love the physicality of it, because I am the type of person where when I'm not doing something I feel weird, so just the sheer exertion of it. On top of that, primarily,...it's just so artistic, there's so much to explore within the medium of dance, you have these classics that have been around for ages, imbedded in society and culture and history, but then you have these new things that are coming up all the time, and that's the contemporary work, and I love exploring that. I want to explore that more and more. Of course I love the company, and I love the preforming. <br />
<br />
<b>A: Do you ever get nervous before the shows?</b><br />
R: Oh yea, of course it depends on what we are doing, if it's like a core piece that's not that challenging to me, then I probably won't be very nervous, but it's something more featured, I could be very nervous. It's the kind of thing where with experience you learn how to deal with whatever it is that you're feeling. <br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>A: Before the shows, does someone come to do your make-up?</b><br />
R: No, we all do our own make-up, but if it's something more elaborate, we have make-up artists. Same thing with your hair, you are supposed to do your own hair, unless it involves a wig. I have really short hair, so if there is a piece that I do that requires long hair, they will have to put something in. That's always funny.<br />
<br />
<b>A: Do you have any advice for young aspiring ballet dancers?</b><br />
R: It's the kind of thing where if you want it, you should not let any of those obstacles keep you from acheiving it. and there will be obstacles, whether it's family that doesn't necessarily support it, or school that is getting in the way, or a schedule that's packed, or injuries. Injuries are something that is part of the job description. Once you make it to live as a professional dancer things certainly do get easier, but there will always be those challenges testing you, and how much you are ready to push. If you want it, go for it, because honestly being able to have a profession that is something that you love and going to work everyday and working on yourself not only as a dancer, but as a person, and having you job be more than a 9 to 5 thing that then allows you to have a certain lifestyle, it then become your lifestyle, I think it's invaluable. Just go for it!<br />
<br />
<b>A: Have you seen the movie Black Swan, What do you think of it? Are any truths to the stereotypes of Ballet dancers?</b><br />
R: I was wondering if this question was coming! The movie, yea of course, it's Hollywood, and it has to be embellished and exaggerated for points to get across and for the drama to be carried out. The funny thing about Black Swan is that there are certainly elements of truth within it. I thought the most realistic thing was the mother, and she for me was the scariest especially when you are growing up, in these ballet schools, you will see these "ballet moms" who are crazy. So that was kind of scary, you don't really see it so much in companies, because at that point you are your own dancer and you don't have a mother that has to like sit and watch class. But every now and then you do see a ballet mom, and you are like "oh my god, she has to leave, not ok." So there's that, what I thought was the scariest.<br />
<br />
The whole director/dancer relationship, I thought that was just really not necessary, because it's really not how things happen. I thought that was kind of a liberty that was taken a little too far. There are other stereotypes like you know, how Natalie Portman's character is just crazy,. There is a certain amount of insanity involved in any person who is that devoted to their art form. And not necessarily just dancers, like athletes and there is a huge amount of sacrifice, and that I understand. I'm not saying that we all have feathers growing out of our back, it's just intense. So that was fine. Somethings are just a little bit too much, and I think everyone understands that that's not how it really is.<br />
<br />
<b>A: With your blog, how did you get inspired to start writing that?</b><br />
R: A couple things... I've always loved food and restaurants, and I noticed that the Boston food scene was really coming into it's own, and things were changing, restaurants were opening, and I kind of wanted to explore that. When I started writing the blog, I was an apprentice, so as far as paychecks go, it wasn't great, so I was like, "maybe I can do it in a frugal way" which is why I started as the "Frugal Foodista."<br />
And then, as I'm sure you also have come to realize, at the beginning the blog takes a lot of work, and nobody is probably reading it. I think my Dad was the only one who followed it for like three months, and then because of the way the Boston food scene is, with the blogging network, it's a nicely organized and formed network where you can with a certain amount of reaching out, people with then reach out to you, and it kind of takes on a life of it's own, and momentum. That's kind of what happened with mine, as I said earlier, I eventually had to pan out with my definition and objectives, although I still love the whole "frugal" angle, I don't want to limit myself to that because I have other opportunities that I want to experience as well, and I want my readers to experience. That was one of the things that got me started.<br />
<br />
The other one was that I really love writing, and I wanted an outlet with a more specific goal, and because I love food so much, it just works really well. It's pretty easy for me to write about things like that. Who knows where it will lead. I would love to be a professional food writer. In a sense it's almost like building a portfolio without having to try very hard because you want to do it anyways.<br />
<br />
<b>The End!</b><br />
<br />
Thanks so much Rachel for taking the time to talk with me! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-19905278602052049142012-07-31T08:50:00.001-04:002012-07-31T10:19:34.030-04:00Finding Workout MotivationHi Guys!<br />
<ul>
</ul>
I just got back from the busiet weekend ever, and I'm getting back into the swing of things. (P.s check out <a href="http://amazingasset.com/2012/07/31/guest-post-racing-dos-and-donts/#comment-25237">my guest post</a> on <a href="http://www.amazingasset.com/">Tessa's blog!</a>) As you might know, I'm <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/half-marathon-training-plan.html">training for a half marathon</a> in September. It's 7 weeks away, but I do need to crank up the intensity of my workouts to make sure I'm prepared.<br />
<br />
Sunday, I was supposed to run 9 miles, but for some reason I got it in my head that I couldn't do it.<br />
Last Sunday, I ran 8 miles, and while it was difficult, it was totally do-able. This 9 mile run just seemed daunting to me, and I kept putting it off all day. I had plans to meet someone (details to come!) for coffee at 1, and I totally could have/should have went for the run in the morning. Since Friday night was the <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/liz-jakes-wedding-stowe-vermont.html">wedding</a> and I spent a good few hours in sky high heels, and then on Saturday night, CJ's band played a show, and I was up late in sky high heels again! By the time Sunday and the 9 mile run rolled around, I just felt so bad for my feet I didn't want to make them run that far. I felt like I had abused them enough.<br />
<br />
But- I didn't want to forgo the run all together, I knew running some was better than not running at all. So, I got dressed, laced up my sneakers and did the following<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I said to myself "You can make excuses or you can make it happen"</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I repeated my mantra from my previous race training "Every mile I do now will make the race easier"</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>And when that wasn't enough, I searched Pinterest for Workout Motivation:</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PFnTfTx1Mc/UBbm_8NKVZI/AAAAAAAACyI/mqRrMl3HBp8/s1600/workout1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PFnTfTx1Mc/UBbm_8NKVZI/AAAAAAAACyI/mqRrMl3HBp8/s400/workout1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQOJ81jS70M/UBbnA0f8H4I/AAAAAAAACyY/Ic1GWm_EC6Q/s1600/workout3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQOJ81jS70M/UBbnA0f8H4I/AAAAAAAACyY/Ic1GWm_EC6Q/s400/workout3.jpg" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Actually my feet hurt from wearing heels all night....)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHVwdCOCDZU/UBbnAaB1sXI/AAAAAAAACyQ/z0amyWq3q9g/s1600/workout2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHVwdCOCDZU/UBbnAaB1sXI/AAAAAAAACyQ/z0amyWq3q9g/s400/workout2.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nuM4gLhhqFE/UBbnB5LOWrI/AAAAAAAACyo/tA2Qch3KfTE/s1600/workout5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nuM4gLhhqFE/UBbnB5LOWrI/AAAAAAAACyo/tA2Qch3KfTE/s400/workout5.jpg" width="347" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ArMdVlQGhE/UBbnBYEcNlI/AAAAAAAACyg/2zSr9EupyDc/s1600/workout4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ArMdVlQGhE/UBbnBYEcNlI/AAAAAAAACyg/2zSr9EupyDc/s400/workout4.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
<br />
Even after all this motivation, I didn't complete the 9 miles, I only got to 5 before stopping and walking. Sometimes you have to listen to your body, and I felt like my body just really needed rest. I felt OK with not finishing 9 because the thing that matters most is that I <b>got out there</b>, instead of just giving up all together.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>How do you find workout motivation? Do you have any personal mantras? </i><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-72526412626380165002012-07-28T19:26:00.000-04:002012-07-29T08:13:44.891-04:00Liz & Jake's Wedding in Stowe, VermontHi guys!<br />
<br />
I just got back from the most amazing wedding in Vermont. My dear friend Liz got married at the beautiful Topnotch resort in Stowe. I met Liz while working at Mass General Hospital 2 years ago, and we've stayed in touch. She is an amazing person and I was so happy to get to share her special day with her. She looked stunning, and I have never seen a couple more in love than her and Jake. <br />
<br />
I took a million pictures, but I tried to narrow it down to the best ones. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uyhKxgieBB0/UBQ8NUh-S3I/AAAAAAAACsY/n4bnkiMhN6k/s1600/_MG_0461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uyhKxgieBB0/UBQ8NUh-S3I/AAAAAAAACsY/n4bnkiMhN6k/s640/_MG_0461.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The flower girl was so cute, and the maid of Honor, Erika looked very pretty. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RA4yzWWDGp4/UBQ8QDNoP9I/AAAAAAAACsg/vi9VCJl1DmA/s1600/_MG_0462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RA4yzWWDGp4/UBQ8QDNoP9I/AAAAAAAACsg/vi9VCJl1DmA/s640/_MG_0462.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qS_O6EhYzco/UBQ8hawgBcI/AAAAAAAACso/pOmR0NRHu24/s1600/_MG_0477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qS_O6EhYzco/UBQ8hawgBcI/AAAAAAAACso/pOmR0NRHu24/s640/_MG_0477.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3LMuU7j_4o4/UBQ8j0Fgx-I/AAAAAAAACsw/ljcCsCtZMkg/s1600/_MG_0488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3LMuU7j_4o4/UBQ8j0Fgx-I/AAAAAAAACsw/ljcCsCtZMkg/s640/_MG_0488.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Officially married!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f54io24G3gQ/UBQ8mTHskII/AAAAAAAACs4/ycV4GFabWdg/s1600/_MG_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f54io24G3gQ/UBQ8mTHskII/AAAAAAAACs4/ycV4GFabWdg/s400/_MG_0490.JPG" width="266" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7DWlxaDuHcc/UBQ8pS1sPmI/AAAAAAAACtA/WtxK9oBLO0I/s1600/_MG_0494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7DWlxaDuHcc/UBQ8pS1sPmI/AAAAAAAACtA/WtxK9oBLO0I/s400/_MG_0494.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
The ceremony was held at St. Andrew's in Warerbury, Vermont (home of Ben and Jerry's Ice cream!) and the reception was held back at the resort. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CQ9bEYlEhvg/UBQ9cD8gNjI/AAAAAAAACtI/KgHw5FLM7kE/s1600/_MG_0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CQ9bEYlEhvg/UBQ9cD8gNjI/AAAAAAAACtI/KgHw5FLM7kE/s640/_MG_0501.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The placecards were made by the bride's friend, Lisa. They were really cute.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8g0CY9vPhw/UBQ9erOxFNI/AAAAAAAACtQ/zXaZcnEtUxM/s1600/_MG_0508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u8g0CY9vPhw/UBQ9erOxFNI/AAAAAAAACtQ/zXaZcnEtUxM/s400/_MG_0508.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gE-Lw0zg91g/UBQ9giKC7JI/AAAAAAAACtY/v6XQ2CTFH6s/s1600/_MG_0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gE-Lw0zg91g/UBQ9giKC7JI/AAAAAAAACtY/v6XQ2CTFH6s/s400/_MG_0511.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
There was an open bar (wahoo!) so I started cocktail hour with a Cape Codder (cranberry+vodka)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vEO-XxKYI_0/UBQ9jqW8zWI/AAAAAAAACtg/shXQVUB8DWs/s1600/_MG_0512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vEO-XxKYI_0/UBQ9jqW8zWI/AAAAAAAACtg/shXQVUB8DWs/s640/_MG_0512.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Cocktail hour was held in the courtyard outside the tent, and the view was amazing. So picturesque.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-R7JDiEdvo/UBQ9mkKzSVI/AAAAAAAACto/EyrJJv4BpEQ/s1600/_MG_0513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-R7JDiEdvo/UBQ9mkKzSVI/AAAAAAAACto/EyrJJv4BpEQ/s640/_MG_0513.JPG" width="640" /></a>For hors d'oeuvres, I had a chicken skewer, and some eggplant bruschetta. Delish! It did a nice job of holding me over until the meal was served.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gCmzg5wLKNo/UBQ9o_JHUrI/AAAAAAAACtw/p4KWPFjYFuw/s1600/_MG_0515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gCmzg5wLKNo/UBQ9o_JHUrI/AAAAAAAACtw/p4KWPFjYFuw/s640/_MG_0515.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPV2n1g3Sc4/UBQ9q_OgRqI/AAAAAAAACt4/X_r9hIbU17k/s1600/_MG_0518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPV2n1g3Sc4/UBQ9q_OgRqI/AAAAAAAACt4/X_r9hIbU17k/s640/_MG_0518.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kxyrnTMTLbY/UBQ9t3b1zHI/AAAAAAAACuA/bJbiDfwdAR4/s1600/_MG_0524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kxyrnTMTLbY/UBQ9t3b1zHI/AAAAAAAACuA/bJbiDfwdAR4/s640/_MG_0524.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie, Me, and Sarah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Rp_S918lN4/UBQ_EOdQ6EI/AAAAAAAACuI/di5gXd0Qq14/s1600/_MG_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Rp_S918lN4/UBQ_EOdQ6EI/AAAAAAAACuI/di5gXd0Qq14/s640/_MG_0534.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I love the idea of having a cupcake tower instead of a big cake. There was red velvet, chocolate, vanilla, and I heard the best one was the chocolate peanut butter cup, but I didn't try that one!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OzuoArIFkAI/UBQ_GpFWsvI/AAAAAAAACuQ/AoF-PSrdQkw/s1600/_MG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OzuoArIFkAI/UBQ_GpFWsvI/AAAAAAAACuQ/AoF-PSrdQkw/s640/_MG_0554.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LBZnA30yNtI/UBQ_JLjiVXI/AAAAAAAACuY/5H5jXJqYqt0/s1600/_MG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LBZnA30yNtI/UBQ_JLjiVXI/AAAAAAAACuY/5H5jXJqYqt0/s640/_MG_0555.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0ZeyF-AeYI/UBRMHPxFFaI/AAAAAAAACwY/qJKYkiLgp0I/s1600/_MG_0559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0ZeyF-AeYI/UBRMHPxFFaI/AAAAAAAACwY/qJKYkiLgp0I/s400/_MG_0559.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The lovely Bride And Groom! Nice looking couple if you ask me!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VssFs2jAvRA/UBQ_UrX1Z_I/AAAAAAAACu4/uM7HMuHQPiw/s1600/liznjakejpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VssFs2jAvRA/UBQ_UrX1Z_I/AAAAAAAACu4/uM7HMuHQPiw/s640/liznjakejpg.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
The meal started with a salad. The main course was either chicken, ravioli, or filet Mignon. I chose the filet, and it was a good choice; cooked to perfection.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBSw_WtYabo/UBQ_PkQ-dbI/AAAAAAAACuo/O_xY3rBFYlo/s1600/_MG_0576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBSw_WtYabo/UBQ_PkQ-dbI/AAAAAAAACuo/O_xY3rBFYlo/s640/_MG_0576.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1sFrWM5hds/UBQ_SaQZs6I/AAAAAAAACuw/KKuoiKkw-Rg/s1600/_MG_0578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1sFrWM5hds/UBQ_SaQZs6I/AAAAAAAACuw/KKuoiKkw-Rg/s640/_MG_0578.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
After the meal, it was time for the dances. The couple's first dance: <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upVWa-C1tEo/UBRBehaPzQI/AAAAAAAACvA/5qhA5W_nH9s/s1600/_MG_0594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upVWa-C1tEo/UBRBehaPzQI/AAAAAAAACvA/5qhA5W_nH9s/s640/_MG_0594.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Father daughter dance! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-avXpjD6w0d8/UBRBhzrAFsI/AAAAAAAACvI/EaMs-2U6l7Q/s1600/_MG_0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-avXpjD6w0d8/UBRBhzrAFsI/AAAAAAAACvI/EaMs-2U6l7Q/s640/_MG_0611.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
How cute are they?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lawkTkFlQhM/UBRBldfjgeI/AAAAAAAACvQ/7gfpRoFF5bw/s1600/_MG_0617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lawkTkFlQhM/UBRBldfjgeI/AAAAAAAACvQ/7gfpRoFF5bw/s640/_MG_0617.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Mother Son dance! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SCHvIPimro/UBRBo4_lB4I/AAAAAAAACvY/egJC6cVXT-g/s1600/_MG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SCHvIPimro/UBRBo4_lB4I/AAAAAAAACvY/egJC6cVXT-g/s640/_MG_0635.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
After the dances, the rest of the guests were invited to the dance floor, and we did not stop dancing until the wedding ended! I had so much fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rbhb8DcRrWA/UBRBqnlDp7I/AAAAAAAACvg/nb7LwVNk1sI/s1600/_MG_0698edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rbhb8DcRrWA/UBRBqnlDp7I/AAAAAAAACvg/nb7LwVNk1sI/s640/_MG_0698edit.jpg" width="634" /></a></div>
Congratulations, Liz and Jake! I wish you both so much happiness! Have fun on your honeymoon!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-41068954652188840452012-07-26T11:45:00.000-04:002012-07-26T11:45:04.699-04:00Crossfit Boston Trial Class & Slow Cooker GIVEAWAY!Hi Guys!<br />
I wanna tell you about my first ever Crossfit workout, and then I have an exciting giveaway for you!!<br />
<br />
Everything I know about Crossfit, I've learned from reading <a href="http://www.carrotsncake.com/">Tina</a>'s blog When Tina started going to Crossfit regularly and showing her impressive results on her blog (hello sixpack!), I was impressed and wanted to learn more about it. Slowly and surely, Crossfit started popping up everywhere I turned, it became many bloggers workout of choice, and even some of my friends starting doing it. <br />
<br />
If you know anything about Crossfit, you know that it is expensive, effective, and wildly
popular right now. The workouts are short, intense, and challenging.<br />
<a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy </a>and I have been wanting to try it for a while, so we finally got the courage and went in for a trial. <br />
<br />
Boston has a few "boxes" so we picked <a href="http://www.crossfitboston.com/">Crossfit Boston</a> since it is the original "box" of Boston.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2wPkiW2V_E/UA3xB-eXsqI/AAAAAAAACqU/OV8Dj2mZ1xE/s1600/IMG_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2wPkiW2V_E/UA3xB-eXsqI/AAAAAAAACqU/OV8Dj2mZ1xE/s640/IMG_0047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
On Monday nights they offer a free trial class, so we signed up and made the trek over there after work. If you live in the area, you can sign up too, just go <a href="http://www.crossfitboston.com/">here</a>. They offer a free week's worth of workouts, which is three days.<br />
<br />
The WOD (workout of the day) was:<br />
<br />
Front Squat<br />
<i>15 minutes to work up to a heavy 5</i><br />
<br />
<b>Conditioning</b><br />
42 <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TC2FmcPH64o">Wall Ball</a> 20/14<br />
21 <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1QrX_KHNxs">Hand Stand pushups</a><br />
21 <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-6dX2anRjg">Clean highpull</a> 135/95<br />
30 Wall Ball 20/14<br />
15 Hand Stand pushups<br />
15 Clean highpull 135/95<br />
18 Wall Ball 20/14<br />
9 Hand Stand pushups<br />
9 Clean highpull 135/95<br />
<br />
<b> For us newbies, it was altered to:</b><br />
<br />
21 regular Push-ups<br />
21 <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjBI9qxibTc">Dead lifts </a>(45 lbs)<br />
21 Wallballs (10lb medicine ball)<br />
<br />
15 Push-ups<br />
15 dead lifts (45 lbs)<br />
15 Wallballs (10 lb medicine ball)<br />
<br />
9 Push-ups<br />
9 Dead lifts (45 lbs)<br />
9 Wallballs (10 lb medicine ball)<br />
<br />
Tracy and I finished in ~10 minutes. Afterwards, I felt nauseous, but I must say, it was super fun. I could see myself getting really in shape if I started going there. All the coaches were so supportive and I was impressed by all the attention they were giving potential members. I would love to sign up, if I had the money, and that is a BIG if. Crossfit is expensive, but if you are looking for an intense workout, and a lot of personal attention, it's a great place to get in shape.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Giveaway Time! </span></div>
I was contacted by <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/slimkicker-calorie-counter/id512812753?mt=8">SlimKicker</a> about doing a giveaway for a slow cooker. Slimkicker is a cool website that turns your diet and fitness goals into a game with points, rewards, and challenges.They offer <a href="http://www.slimkicker.com/recipes/medifast">recipe ideas for various diets</a> and even have their own <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/slimkicker-calorie-counter/id512812753?mt=8">diet tracker app</a>. They are looking for some new challenge ideas, and thought you guys could help. <br />
<br />
The winner of the giveaway will win this lovely <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Deluxe-Stay-Cooker/dp/B001LNM4ZE/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1338045296&sr=8-19">deluxe slow cooker/steamer.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTU40MzbRvk/UBFf6kTCjTI/AAAAAAAACsM/sjzHVGmSyhc/s1600/steamer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTU40MzbRvk/UBFf6kTCjTI/AAAAAAAACsM/sjzHVGmSyhc/s400/steamer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately, you have to put in a little effort to win this giveaway, but still, it's totally worth the chance to win (in my opinion)!</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: blue;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To enter, just leave a comment with an <b>idea for a healthy challenge.</b></span></div>
<br />
Some ideas I came up with:<br />
"I would challenge myself to eat more veggies by having a side salad with my dinner as many nights a week as possible"<br />
"I would challenge myself to take the stairs instead of the elevator as many times a week as I can"<br />
<br />
<br />
Slimkicker will pick a winner and let me know in about a week! I really wish I could win because my slow cooker looks like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YT8EUUwN8WY/UBCcwuxnjNI/AAAAAAAACsA/9dAb3q-26TU/s1600/IMG_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YT8EUUwN8WY/UBCcwuxnjNI/AAAAAAAACsA/9dAb3q-26TU/s640/IMG_0127.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Good Luck everyone!<br />
<br />
Tips for commenting:<br />
<ul>
<li>If you choose anonymous, please put your name at the end of the comment box</li>
<li>If you choose the Name/URL option, you can leave the URL part blank.</li>
<li>You can log in and comment through your google account, your email address will not be public </li>
</ul>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-72024567666102467052012-07-25T06:36:00.001-04:002012-07-25T13:30:07.421-04:00WIAW: Time Flies....Hi guys!<br />
Today is the last WIAW of July! Eeek. How has this month gone by already? I hate that about summer, it goes by way too fast. I know the rest of the summer is going to fly by wicked fast since I have a bunch of exciting things planned: weddings, shows, beach days, barbeques, and of course the <a href="http://www.healthylivingsummit.com/">Healthy Living Summit</a>.<br />
<br />
As usual, I want to say a big thanks to Jenn, from <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/">Peas and Crayons</a> for hosting this big food diary party. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1heUQI5z3rE/T_COCC9RT9I/AAAAAAAAGjE/WZ9eKTyKOtY/s1600/WIAW+fun+food+fitness+july+button.jpg" /></a></center><br />
<br />
Here's a collage of what I ate (on Tuesday) in no particular order:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZG_O01NcGI/UA8oFYW_GbI/AAAAAAAACrM/kNlPD3J4gUU/s1600/dayineats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="507" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZG_O01NcGI/UA8oFYW_GbI/AAAAAAAACrM/kNlPD3J4gUU/s640/dayineats.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Breakfast:</b> Oatmeal + PB<br />
<b>Morning Snack:</b> Banana<br />
<b>Lunch:</b> Moroccan Cous Cous + Chicken from <a href="http://www.busybeebakery.net/">Busy Bee bakery</a><br />
<b>Snack #1:</b> Blueberries + Currants(so tart!)<br />
<b>Snack #2:</b> Carrot sticks and hummus (not pictured)<br />
<b>Dinner:</b> Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Ravioli, a side salad with baby spinach, chick peas, olives, & carrots, and a slice of TJ's tuscan pane bread + butter (not pictured)<br />
<br />
<br />
My favorite part of the day was dinner; the butternut squash ravioli was amazing!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z2CXXHdIEGc/UA86_QBkVyI/AAAAAAAACrY/x6o7sbKmdT8/s1600/_MG_0454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z2CXXHdIEGc/UA86_QBkVyI/AAAAAAAACrY/x6o7sbKmdT8/s640/_MG_0454.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I recently started shopping at TJ's and I am in love. It has awesome food at reasonable prices. I only wish they had a deli counter where they slice the meat for you. I don't know if this is every location, but at mine they only sell their deli meat in pre-sliced packs. :( That's my only TJ's complaint!<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Workout:</b><br />
I was thinking of either going for a run, or riding my bike to the gym, but the rain put a damper on both of those plans. Instead I did an quick little workout in my living room. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/G_iBF_UBxeo/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/G_iBF_UBxeo&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/G_iBF_UBxeo&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
I did the sunset workout from the <a href="http://www.toneitup.com/">Tone it up girls</a>. Love them. Try it out at home!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Have a great Wednesday everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-6348409952398979232012-07-23T20:34:00.001-04:002012-07-23T20:34:48.012-04:00Peanut Butter Banana SmoothieThis is the yummiest and frothiest smoothie I've ever made. I always make smoothies with an assortment of fruit, but tonight I decided to try something a little different. I love peanut butter and banana together, so I knew I would like the combo in a smoothie. I added the sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a little hint of flavor. Delish!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ingredients:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4L3_PJMDCeg/UA3qVT-CyUI/AAAAAAAACpg/Em1gqMzDhlQ/s1600/_MG_0422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4L3_PJMDCeg/UA3qVT-CyUI/AAAAAAAACpg/Em1gqMzDhlQ/s640/_MG_0422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cinnamon-Milk-Peanut Butter- Banana- Honey </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
& Ice cubes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I didn't measure anything out, but I used 1 banana, 4 ice cubes, a splash of milk, a healthy scoop of pb, and a squeeze of honey. It will turn out good no matter how much you use.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z2RASVp1YMc/UA3qqY2kSRI/AAAAAAAACpo/duhx_Q7rTP0/s1600/_MG_0417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z2RASVp1YMc/UA3qqY2kSRI/AAAAAAAACpo/duhx_Q7rTP0/s640/_MG_0417.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First, turn this ^ into this ---> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0MNKRHr_2Qc/UA3qtpQXouI/AAAAAAAACpw/D_qq8oMioSw/s1600/_MG_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0MNKRHr_2Qc/UA3qtpQXouI/AAAAAAAACpw/D_qq8oMioSw/s640/_MG_0428.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Blend the ice cubes with milk, and then add in the peanut butter and bananas.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rwUnvPGJhWk/UA3qwUP9mlI/AAAAAAAACp4/h5oIDxit-f8/s1600/_MG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rwUnvPGJhWk/UA3qwUP9mlI/AAAAAAAACp4/h5oIDxit-f8/s640/_MG_0433.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Blend until smooth and frothy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqI3fPgOhTw/UA3qygxlmzI/AAAAAAAACqA/lvQkXaqOGak/s1600/_MG_0436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqI3fPgOhTw/UA3qygxlmzI/AAAAAAAACqA/lvQkXaqOGak/s640/_MG_0436.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Sprinkle with Cinnamon and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnPj9lvF18E/UA3q3vTGmxI/AAAAAAAACqI/7I7iJNKxmxg/s1600/_MG_0442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnPj9lvF18E/UA3q3vTGmxI/AAAAAAAACqI/7I7iJNKxmxg/s640/_MG_0442.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This makes a great breakfast, dessert, or bedtime snack; amazing at any hour.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-5708507618483562512012-07-23T18:19:00.000-04:002012-07-23T18:19:09.919-04:00Maggiano's Giveaway Winners!Hi Guys!<br />
<br />
I used a <a href="http://www.random.org/">random number generator</a> to pick the two winners for the Maggiano's Giveaway. Yup that's right!<b> Two winners! </b>Maggiano's actually gave me two gift certificates, and since I'm trying not to be selfish, I'm giving them both away. :)<br />
<br />
Two lucky people will win a $20 voucher to <a href="http://www.maggianos.com/en/Pages/home.aspx">Maggiano's</a> to use on delicious food like this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LJXnRRiH3y0/UA3M5FvUZjI/AAAAAAAACpU/U_nTk0Y1wv4/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LJXnRRiH3y0/UA3M5FvUZjI/AAAAAAAACpU/U_nTk0Y1wv4/s640/IMG_0078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The winners are comment number 4 and comment number 6<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-joJRDXiRTek/UA3Lwdho_II/AAAAAAAACo0/lP4g742uxNg/s1600/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-joJRDXiRTek/UA3Lwdho_II/AAAAAAAACo0/lP4g742uxNg/s1600/4.png" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sa_cHQr40uQ/UA3Lw1imueI/AAAAAAAACo8/CncST7MHleI/s1600/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sa_cHQr40uQ/UA3Lw1imueI/AAAAAAAACo8/CncST7MHleI/s1600/6.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Congratulations to:<br />
<br />
4.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nYWmqMrlX5c/UA3MI5OTCwI/AAAAAAAACpM/TgXIXKrm87c/s1600/yulia.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nYWmqMrlX5c/UA3MI5OTCwI/AAAAAAAACpM/TgXIXKrm87c/s320/yulia.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
-----and-----<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
6.</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sh3ceTz8rss/UA3MIbJq_QI/AAAAAAAACpE/QXOYwCuTsu8/s1600/fiona.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sh3ceTz8rss/UA3MIbJq_QI/AAAAAAAACpE/QXOYwCuTsu8/s640/fiona.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Number 6 please contact me so I can get you your prize! Macncheesenpeas@gmail.com<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-81328109661113325872012-07-21T16:51:00.000-04:002012-07-21T16:54:48.310-04:00The Recipe Redux: Summer Currant salad with Honey Balsamic VinagretteThis month's <a href="http://www.thereciperedux.com/">Recipe Redux</a> theme was "Beat the Summer Heat with No Cook Meals." This is right up my alley because lately I just haven't wanted to use my oven. In fact, I re-named our toaster oven the "roaster oven" because I've been using
it to roast vegetables instead of using the big oven. <br />
Using the big oven turns our
apartment into more of a furnace than it already it. It's a pretty good
compromise because it uses less energy to heat it up, and it doesn't
affect the temperature in the kitchen as much as the oven does.<br />
<br />
This recipe challenge takes it one step further, and doesn't require any cooking at all! Just a few chops here, a few grates there, and a whisking at the end to make the dressing. Simple as that!<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Salad Ingredients:</b><br />
Baby Spinach<br />
Walnut nuggets<br />
Red Currants<br />
Cucumber<br />
Carrots<br />
Purple Bell Pepper<br />
<br />
<b>Dressing:</b><br />
Olive Oil<br />
Honey Dijon Mustard<br />
Balsamic Vinegar<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ntKnrHb5UOY/UAsSEdW75yI/AAAAAAAACnw/8DbEqws2m04/s1600/IMG_0102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="548" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ntKnrHb5UOY/UAsSEdW75yI/AAAAAAAACnw/8DbEqws2m04/s640/IMG_0102.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wYkW2gCADhQ/UAsSJPQOaUI/AAAAAAAACn4/hp0_0pekb0A/s1600/IMG_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wYkW2gCADhQ/UAsSJPQOaUI/AAAAAAAACn4/hp0_0pekb0A/s640/IMG_0100.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wash all veggies and spinach</div>
Chop up the veggies into desired sizes<br />
(I use a cheese grater for the carrot slices)<br />
Remove red currants from stems and sprinkle over the salad<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40D6m7iJXcg/UAsTV2kRLaI/AAAAAAAACoI/8_1n7DdJtbU/s1600/IMG_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-40D6m7iJXcg/UAsTV2kRLaI/AAAAAAAACoI/8_1n7DdJtbU/s640/IMG_0104.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>To make the dressing:</b><br />
Combine 2 tbsp Honey Dijon with 2 tbsp Olive oil, and 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar<br />
Whisk together <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CnFy2RUY6U/UAsToqBGbJI/AAAAAAAACoQ/niL-AA4msHo/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CnFy2RUY6U/UAsToqBGbJI/AAAAAAAACoQ/niL-AA4msHo/s640/Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Pour dressing over salad and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qqJE5jAqwg/UAsUMdHlU8I/AAAAAAAACoo/7WPhm6jv8po/s1600/IMG_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qqJE5jAqwg/UAsUMdHlU8I/AAAAAAAACoo/7WPhm6jv8po/s640/IMG_0107.JPG" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This was a fun salad to make (and eat) because it's so colorful. I love the purple bell peppers I got from my <a href="http://www.farmdirectcoop.org/">CSA</a>, and the red currants are a flavorful addition to the salad. <br />
<br />
<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<script type="text/javascript" src=http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=166147&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
</script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<script type="text/javascript">
<br> document.write('<script type="text/javascript" src=http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=166147&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
</script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-48857555778825882272012-07-21T07:11:00.000-04:002012-07-21T08:22:06.518-04:00Red Sox Game & Exciting News!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uLK86w07KHU/UAkx5OvDmTI/AAAAAAAAClA/UrOvaUJ7tJ0/s1600/IMG_0087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yesterday I was having a little bit of a rough morning. You know...just one of<i> those</i> days, and just when I thought things couldn't get worse, everything got better! I had two awesome things happen to me in a span of 5 minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
1. My friend Katie texted me that she had Red Sox tickets for the game that night and invited me to go!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wzWT8XY9Uwc/UAoIzZTnj0I/AAAAAAAACmw/dP5sSiT0tIc/s1600/red+sox+field.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wzWT8XY9Uwc/UAoIzZTnj0I/AAAAAAAACmw/dP5sSiT0tIc/s640/red+sox+field.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
--------and then--------- <br />
<br />
2. I checked my email and found out I was a finalist in the <a href="http://healthylivingsummit.com/and-the-wild-harvest-breakfast-showdown-top-5-are/">Wild Harvest Breakfast recipe contest</a>! <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/wild-harvest-black-bean-and-mango-salsa.html">My recipe</a> was selected to be a top 5 finalist.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IakiFjpoqTY/UAoJH0lNRWI/AAAAAAAACm4/_4D5HTq7ke0/s1600/_MG_9685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IakiFjpoqTY/UAoJH0lNRWI/AAAAAAAACm4/_4D5HTq7ke0/s400/_MG_9685.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I was so happy! It just reminded me that good things <i>do</i> happen, and to never let anything get you down too much, because you never know what awesome opportunity is waiting just around the corner! :) Your luck can turn around in an instant! (p.s. positive thoughts rock, and I know that was corny)<br />
<br />
I quickly showered and went back into the city to meet my friend. For me, Red Sox games mean Fenway franks and soft serve in a mini helmet. No trip to Fenway is complete without them! Although this is my favorite food option at the game, they recently added some healthier choices, which I think is awesome! You can read about them here: <a href="http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/blog/dailydose/2011/04/healthier_eats.html">http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/blog/dailydose/2011/04/healthier_eats.html</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8FCeoKFu3bw/UAoIWS6vZFI/AAAAAAAACmg/6D1-zGc653Y/s1600/red+sox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8FCeoKFu3bw/UAoIWS6vZFI/AAAAAAAACmg/6D1-zGc653Y/s640/red+sox.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Since I'm just not a sports person, I rarely watch what's going on in the game and just go for the atmosphere and the food. I still love going to games, and always have a good time, especially with friends!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqaOW6wTvws/UAoJVxU2sPI/AAAAAAAACnA/S0lySFLlTN0/s1600/sox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqaOW6wTvws/UAoJVxU2sPI/AAAAAAAACnA/S0lySFLlTN0/s640/sox.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katie, Me, Melissa</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This game happened to be really boring, and I'm not just saying that because I don't like watching sports! Only one run was scored. I think we lost, but I can't be sure because I left halfway through the 9th inning to try and beat the rush to the t.<br />
<br />
Such a fun night! I love doing things on week nights just to make the week go by faster <br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Now on to the #2 exciting thing.</b> I can't believe my messy falling-apart omelette was selected!<br />
Ahhhh! I'm actually kinda embarrased that this picture is up on the website for everyone to see:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Te-aAgD_BOw/UAoL3lcWPII/AAAAAAAACnM/z4PhjL7WRIw/s1600/_MG_9708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Te-aAgD_BOw/UAoL3lcWPII/AAAAAAAACnM/z4PhjL7WRIw/s640/_MG_9708.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Can you even call that an omlette?? Oh well, I guess it's the taste that counts!<br />
I've never come this close to winning a contest in my life, so this is a really big deal to me, especially since the prize is so sweet: <br />
<br />
<i>"The winning breakfast will be announced on August 18th, and served at
<a href="http://www.healthylivingsummit.com/">HLS</a>. The recipe creator will receive a $500 gift card to use at any
SUPERVALU store, including Albertsons, JEWEL-OSCO, Shaw’s, ACME, Farm
Fresh, Cub Foods, SHOPPERS, Shop ‘n Save and Hornbacher’s."</i><br />
<br />
The other finalists are:<br />
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<a href="http://www.foodfash.com/2012/06/24/2012-wild-harvest-blogger-recipe-contest/">Black Bean Quiche with Mango Peach Salsa</a> by Kristin of <a href="http://www.foodfash.com/2012/06/24/2012-wild-harvest-blogger-recipe-contest/">FoodFash</a></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<a href="http://www.thewannabefoodie.com/cherry-vanilla-granola-muffins/">Cherry Vanilla Granola Muffins</a> by Alicia of <a href="http://www.thewannabefoodie.com/cherry-vanilla-granola-muffins/">The Wannabe Foodie</a></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<a href="http://cupcakekellys.com/blog/2012/6/26/wild-harvest-breakfast-showdown.html">Greek inspired Egg Scramble</a> by Kelly of<a href="http://cupcakekellys.com/blog/2012/6/26/wild-harvest-breakfast-showdown.html"> Cupcake Kelly</a></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal;">
<a href="http://www.thenheathersaid.com/2012/07/06/trail-mix-pancakes-with-peanut-butter-maple-sauce/">Trail Mix Pancakes with Peanut Butter Maple Sauce</a> by Heather of <a href="http://www.thenheathersaid.com/2012/07/06/trail-mix-pancakes-with-peanut-butter-maple-sauce/">Then Heather Said</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I wanna say "Good Luck" to all the finalists!!! I can't wait to see who wins!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
P.S. Don't forgot to enter my <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/maggianos-little-italy-boston-food.html">giveaway</a> for the Maggiano's Gift Certificate, I'll pick a winner on Monday. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-47719484949355438502012-07-20T13:32:00.000-04:002012-07-20T13:32:34.937-04:00Maggiano's Little Italy- Boston Food Bloggers Dinner & A Giveaway!!!<span style="font-size: small;">On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to dine with the <a href="http://www.bostonfoodblogs.com/">Boston Food Bloggers</a> at <a href="http://www.maggianos.com/en/Pages/home.aspx">Maggiano's Little Italy</a> located in the heart of Boston's Theater district. I had never been, nor had I ever met any of the Boston Food Bloggers so I jumped at the chance to be a part of the event. <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy</a> and I rsvp'd and got super excited to meet some like-minded bloggers and nosh on some delicious Italian food.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4D6sM4zfyi4/UAkwBLN0H3I/AAAAAAAACiw/BAcFckMxDy8/s640/IMG_0066.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the day of the dinner, the weather was horrible! It was pouring, and thundering, and lightnining. Ekk! Neither one of us had an umbrella, so we stopped in the barber shop below of office to ask if they had any umbrellas that customers had left behind, and to our luck, they did! We hopped on the t, and got off at park st, and walked over from there. I only got splashed by a car once, so I guess it wasn't too bad.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CeOM8WVBzzk/UAkwLGYCy4I/AAAAAAAACi4/6Dh4PsYbWDw/s1600/IMG_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CeOM8WVBzzk/UAkwLGYCy4I/AAAAAAAACi4/6Dh4PsYbWDw/s640/IMG_0069.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">drown rat look = not cute</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once we arrived, we were seated in one of Maggiano's function rooms and we met the general manager Jeffrey Tryzbiak, and the <a href="http://www.myshinymonkey.com/">PR lady Julie Dennehey</a>, also a blogger! :) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXLkjQOIkoQ/UAkwQdV2B-I/AAAAAAAACjQ/CNQI5HwSTAs/s1600/IMG_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXLkjQOIkoQ/UAkwQdV2B-I/AAAAAAAACjQ/CNQI5HwSTAs/s400/IMG_0072.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
They started us off with Sangria! Yum! You all know how much <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/06/how-to-make-white-sangria.html">I love Sangria</a>. Shortly after the drinks arrived, they brought out a bunch of flatbreads. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NnD4LCQyBNE/UAkwSFlbwLI/AAAAAAAACjY/kscJHUKPEMw/s1600/IMG_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NnD4LCQyBNE/UAkwSFlbwLI/AAAAAAAACjY/kscJHUKPEMw/s320/IMG_0073.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPcrvK6FHk0/UAkwOCu3OhI/AAAAAAAACjI/YpW13EPR10Q/s1600/IMG_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPcrvK6FHk0/UAkwOCu3OhI/AAAAAAAACjI/YpW13EPR10Q/s320/IMG_0071.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bc4L7gsDgmQ/UAkwTnUr9uI/AAAAAAAACjg/PR_PGYddw6s/s1600/IMG_0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bc4L7gsDgmQ/UAkwTnUr9uI/AAAAAAAACjg/PR_PGYddw6s/s320/IMG_0074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After the flat bread came out, they continued to bring out large portions of different dishes for us all to share. This was a platter of sausage, roasted potatoes (roasted to perfection I might add!) and a few veggies.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ROwf-L2MeF0/UAkwVQ5jFHI/AAAAAAAACjo/4Z9lG59Cp3E/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ROwf-L2MeF0/UAkwVQ5jFHI/AAAAAAAACjo/4Z9lG59Cp3E/s400/IMG_0075.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The salmon was awesome. It was served over orzo that had ham in it! Interesting, but tasty combo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-geYMKtSuHOQ/UAkwXI5iSyI/AAAAAAAACjw/sU133tyv5kI/s1600/IMG_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-geYMKtSuHOQ/UAkwXI5iSyI/AAAAAAAACjw/sU133tyv5kI/s400/IMG_0076.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The pasta was fun, I love bow ties, but I think they are called "farfalle" in grown-up land, but I wouldn't know because I don't really live there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpXPW74oB8I/UAkwYiBcs9I/AAAAAAAACj4/tg0PnM6ggeQ/s1600/IMG_0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpXPW74oB8I/UAkwYiBcs9I/AAAAAAAACj4/tg0PnM6ggeQ/s400/IMG_0077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The desserts were unreal. They brought out two kinds, a cheesecake and a strawberry pie.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L56v6s4-USg/UAkwZ4LP23I/AAAAAAAACkA/TcOiLX5hgag/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L56v6s4-USg/UAkwZ4LP23I/AAAAAAAACkA/TcOiLX5hgag/s640/IMG_0078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really liked the cheesecake, it was so rich. All of their desserts are made in the restaurant, which is pretty cool. Since they are a chain restaurant, you might expect they have their desserts shipped to them, but not Maggiano's. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LjKzT7WCxH4/UAkwcyKyU_I/AAAAAAAACkQ/zB_AvQxUSDo/s1600/IMG_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LjKzT7WCxH4/UAkwcyKyU_I/AAAAAAAACkQ/zB_AvQxUSDo/s640/IMG_0080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Tracy and met a <a href="http://www.foodistaonpointe.com/">bunch</a> of the other <a href="http://www.thefoodinmybeard.com/">bloggers</a>, and was lucky enough to be seated next to <a href="http://www.davidthetornado.com/">David the Tornado</a>. As you can seen, we became fast friends, haha.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M00hBAZmUdQ/UAkwer0H5-I/AAAAAAAACkY/dXaIKaKc3xA/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M00hBAZmUdQ/UAkwer0H5-I/AAAAAAAACkY/dXaIKaKc3xA/s640/IMG_0081.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
He was an awesome guy. I loved talking to him about running, photography, and graphic design. He has one of the coolest jobs I've ever heard of. He is a package designer for Trader Joe's. How awesome is that?? <a href="http://davidthetornado.com/?p=899">Here's an example of his work</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gnul7c3ZAlc/UAkwh0AWpiI/AAAAAAAACko/0e9-7ZnwjpM/s1600/IMG_0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gnul7c3ZAlc/UAkwh0AWpiI/AAAAAAAACko/0e9-7ZnwjpM/s640/IMG_0083.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
What would I do without my<a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/"> BBB </a>(best blogging buddy)?? I would be too shy to go to things like this alone! <br />
Dinner was so fun, and I'd like to thank Maggiano's for having us, and treating us so well! I really felt important. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uy09tYatPcY/UAkwjU4lVWI/AAAAAAAACkw/b9_hQq54tPQ/s1600/IMG_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uy09tYatPcY/UAkwjU4lVWI/AAAAAAAACkw/b9_hQq54tPQ/s400/IMG_0084.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">now....Giveaway Time!!!!</span><br />
<br />
Maggiano's was generous enough to offer some $20 gift cards for us to give out to readers. <b>To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment below (comments are open to everyone now, so you don't have to have a blogger account to leave one)</b> I'll pick one winner on Monday! Good Luck!!!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-31986726795663802352012-07-18T06:36:00.002-04:002012-07-18T06:37:29.456-04:00What I Ate Wednesday: Beat the HeatHey Guys!<br />
It's time for WIAW(What I ate Wednesday) again! Thanks Jenn, over at <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/">Peas and Crayons</a> for hosting!<br />
<br />
<br />
<center></center><center><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1heUQI5z3rE/T_COCC9RT9I/AAAAAAAAGjE/WZ9eKTyKOtY/s1600/WIAW+fun+food+fitness+july+button.jpg" /></a></center> <br />
<br />
I love the theme for this months WIAW because July really is all about fun, fitness, and food. I even made a <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/peas-knees-summer-bucket-list.html">summer bucket list</a> to make sure I can squeeze in as much fun fitness and food as possible!<br />
<br />
I named this WIAW "Beat the Heat" because it's been so hot, and it really changes how I cook and eat. I know some people say they have no appetite in the hot weather, but I definitely <i>do not</i> feel that way. I have an appetite year round! All food here was consumed on Tuesday, July 17th.<br />
<br />
<b>7:30 am</b> Oatmeal with Peanut Butter (forgot to snap a pic so here's a nice picture of clouds!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j09Lq0pCNO0/UAYMgXgoIuI/AAAAAAAACig/atsX_QAati8/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j09Lq0pCNO0/UAYMgXgoIuI/AAAAAAAACig/atsX_QAati8/s640/IMG_0028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>9 am</b> 1 medium iced coffee from Dunkin'.<br />
Today I finally caved and got an iced coffee. I've been getting a hot coffee everyday! What is wrong with me? Since today was 95 degrees, I decided that an iced coffee would be more enjoyable. And it was definitly the right choice.<br />
Side note: Does anyone else say "Ice" coffee or "Ice" tea instead of Iced? I usually say "Ice," but some people have corrected me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1yNzM5nDZkc/UAXvMPPpPLI/AAAAAAAAChQ/-ATE0CxJuiQ/s1600/IMG_0341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1yNzM5nDZkc/UAXvMPPpPLI/AAAAAAAAChQ/-ATE0CxJuiQ/s320/IMG_0341.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>10:30 </b>Morning Snack: Banana<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oduCKE2MnxE/UAXvPQ7piYI/AAAAAAAAChY/dwcufnDLrOE/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oduCKE2MnxE/UAXvPQ7piYI/AAAAAAAAChY/dwcufnDLrOE/s320/IMG_0343.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>12:00 </b>Lunch- I usually like to pack my lunch, but I've been super lazy due to the heat.<br />
I got a Southwest Tuna Wrap at Au Bon Pain, and it was delicious! Only $6. <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/"> Tracy</a> and I ate outside in the sweltering heat by the food court. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i7p1GRl5vMI/UAXt8V0HRvI/AAAAAAAAChA/8nV8puHIosg/s1600/IMG_0344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i7p1GRl5vMI/UAXt8V0HRvI/AAAAAAAAChA/8nV8puHIosg/s640/IMG_0344.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdPUMyQFM7g/UAXt0L5f5BI/AAAAAAAACg4/WISXannm89M/s1600/tuna+wrap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdPUMyQFM7g/UAXt0L5f5BI/AAAAAAAACg4/WISXannm89M/s640/tuna+wrap.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>2:15pm</b> Chobani Yogurt with Cinnamon and Blueberries (not pictured) This might be my favorite afternoon snack of all time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lPO8T-4w1fA/UAXvUzy8iPI/AAAAAAAAChg/liRr6JWm34Q/s1600/photo%281%29+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lPO8T-4w1fA/UAXvUzy8iPI/AAAAAAAAChg/liRr6JWm34Q/s320/photo%281%29+-+Copy.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<b>Work Out:</b><br />
I've been following a<a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/half-marathon-training-plan.html"> half marathon training plan</a>,
and today's scheduled run was 3 miles. I braved the heat and got out
there. I was going to go to the gym to do my run, but lately I just
don't like the treadmill. I ran at about 5pm, when it was 94 degrees. I
was a sweaty mess by the time I got back, but it was so worth it. I
felt pretty proud of myself for not wimping out.<br />
<br />
This week I have a 4 mile run on Thursday, a 2 mile run on Friday and an 8 mile run on Sunday. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjEvx1iTxi0/UAYLxFYsOVI/AAAAAAAACiY/hPqPTOO8dXc/s1600/7.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjEvx1iTxi0/UAYLxFYsOVI/AAAAAAAACiY/hPqPTOO8dXc/s640/7.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>6pm Dinner</b>: Pulled BBQ Chicken with summer squash. CJ had the day off so he set up the crockpot and made some BBQ pulled chicken. It was so yummy, and pretty easy to make. Just set it and forget it! <br />
We also sauteed some summer squash for our veggie on the side. :) It was a nice easy meal that didn't require too much time in the kitchen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NWIOnzvhPE/UAXywZh9rlI/AAAAAAAAChs/yhe4T4pLSFU/s1600/Plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NWIOnzvhPE/UAXywZh9rlI/AAAAAAAAChs/yhe4T4pLSFU/s640/Plate.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>8pm</b> Dessert:<br />
We made smoothies Nothing like a nice, refreshing smoothie to end the day! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqBEerQ3TtY/UAYH-zFGneI/AAAAAAAACiM/TRUGV4Z3P4k/s1600/smoothie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqBEerQ3TtY/UAYH-zFGneI/AAAAAAAACiM/TRUGV4Z3P4k/s640/smoothie1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
Hope you all have a great Wednesday!<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>P.S</b>. Tonight I'm going to a <a href="http://www.bostonfoodbloggers.com/">Boston Food Blogger's</a> Dinner at <a href="http://www.maggianos.com/en/Pages/home.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1">Maggiano's in the North End.</a> I'm really excited because this will be my first time meeting the members of Boston Food Bloggers. If you are a food blogger in the area, there are still <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/event/3895026128?utm_source=eb_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=new_attendee&utm_term=event_name">some tickets available!</a> I can't wait to tell you guys all about it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-5681282052756185802012-07-16T11:59:00.000-04:002012-07-16T15:10:08.138-04:00The Pea's Knees: Summer Bucket ListHey Everyone!<br />
<br />
I always thought Fall was my favorite season, but I'm really loving all things summer right now. I created this <b>bucket list</b> to make the most of the warm weather before summer gets washed away!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4ckYaaDoj0/UANJYjZsZMI/AAAAAAAACgs/juOwkBHaAsU/s1600/1+love+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4ckYaaDoj0/UANJYjZsZMI/AAAAAAAACgs/juOwkBHaAsU/s640/1+love+beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
1. I made a pact with myself that from now til the end of summer <b>I will stop at every Lemonade stand that I see and buy a glass of lemonade</b>. I've seen so many so far this summer, and it really surprised me that kid's still do that! It's so adorable, and I love seeing little entrepreneurs in the making... <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS325&authuser=0&biw=1920&bih=999&tbm=isch&tbnid=3PhRJy9mdMPXeM:&imgrefurl=http://www.issues.cc/complaints/police/children-fined-for-lemonade-stand&docid=-rxfi5Sbinq61M&imgurl=http://www.issues.cc/uploads/23105698141.jpg&w=900&h=720&ei=F0UDUOGLBOnd6wGSwJz9Bg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=517&vpy=258&dur=410&hovh=201&hovw=251&tx=146&ty=92&sig=114693431601007109721&page=1&tbnh=78&tbnw=98&start=0&ndsp=63&ved=1t:429,r:4,s:0,i:160">Except when they get fined... </a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIeTP-jYkQQ/UANFOs8uSnI/AAAAAAAACgE/BwUdDsbDk5c/s1600/lemonade+stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIeTP-jYkQQ/UANFOs8uSnI/AAAAAAAACgE/BwUdDsbDk5c/s640/lemonade+stand.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS325&authuser=0&biw=1920&bih=999&tbm=isch&tbnid=3PhRJy9mdMPXeM:&imgrefurl=http://www.issues.cc/complaints/police/children-fined-for-lemonade-stand&docid=-rxfi5Sbinq61M&imgurl=http://www.issues.cc/uploads/23105698141.jpg&w=900&h=720&ei=F0UDUOGLBOnd6wGSwJz9Bg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=517&vpy=258&dur=410&hovh=201&hovw=251&tx=146&ty=92&sig=114693431601007109721&page=1&tbnh=78&tbnw=98&start=0&ndsp=63&ved=1t:429,r:4,s:0,i:160">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
2. <b>Run (or leap) down the beach.</b> I really want to combine my love of running with my love of beach before the summer is over. I'd love to take a dip in the sea after a hot and sweaty run.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68lJLUnJPRw/UANFwhaTVYI/AAAAAAAACgM/5_Z6h2DSvPU/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68lJLUnJPRw/UANFwhaTVYI/AAAAAAAACgM/5_Z6h2DSvPU/s640/me.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
3. <b>Go Deep Sea fishing</b>. I used to go every year with my family, but we haven't been in a very long time. This summer I really want to go and catch some dinner!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbLr4-L43Ok/UANHnqyCJ_I/AAAAAAAACgc/PQmRlB8zgok/s1600/fishing.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbLr4-L43Ok/UANHnqyCJ_I/AAAAAAAACgc/PQmRlB8zgok/s400/fishing.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS325&authuser=0&biw=1920&bih=999&tbm=isch&tbnid=9CXeZznEZZl3HM:&imgrefurl=http://www.captainjohnwhalewatchma.com/219390/2011/08/31/what-is-deep-sea-fishing-and-how-does-it-work--capt-john-whale-watching--fishing-tours---plymouth-ma.html&docid=H9tprV6IGYwwcM&imgurl=http://images.reachsite.com/6183232c-ed42-4d70-b479-c3bfaff77f27/media/219394/medium/219394.PNG%253Fgen%253D1&w=555&h=368&ei=bUcDUKWCAeHr6wGm2K3yBg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=224&sig=114693431601007109721&page=1&tbnh=154&tbnw=202&start=0&ndsp=44&ved=1t:429,r:16,s:0,i:125&tx=79&ty=121">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
4. Try to get CJ to <b>take me out for ice cream</b> as many times as possible. He's always trying to limit my ice cream intake. I think he's jealous of my one true love.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_7gRqPPjpA/UANE2K9JnhI/AAAAAAAACf8/Tiipn4gUTqc/s1600/IMG_0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_7gRqPPjpA/UANE2K9JnhI/AAAAAAAACf8/Tiipn4gUTqc/s640/IMG_0244.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
5. <b>Go Horseback Riding.</b> I haven't been in forever! I used to go a lot more often with my Dad when I was younger, and now I like to go once a year or so, but I can't even remember the last time I went. Time to get back in the saddle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XiLb9Thv23w/UANGpjtTOAI/AAAAAAAACgU/A0U99IrJHl8/s1600/horse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XiLb9Thv23w/UANGpjtTOAI/AAAAAAAACgU/A0U99IrJHl8/s640/horse.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
6. <b> Get to the beach</b> AMAP (as much as possible). I think AMAP should be a word, like ASAP. I'm gonna start that... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wjbPbtPm5I/UANIirwYcmI/AAAAAAAACgk/cHG8pgvI1J0/s1600/_MG_9762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wjbPbtPm5I/UANIirwYcmI/AAAAAAAACgk/cHG8pgvI1J0/s640/_MG_9762.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>What's on your summer bucket list? Do tell!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-20970303542692433852012-07-15T18:18:00.003-04:002012-07-16T13:54:01.654-04:00Ocean Kayaking, Sushi, & OystersHello!<br />
Today I went ocean kayaking at <a href="http://www.bevrec.com/lynchpark.html">Lynch Park</a> with my good friend Meaghan. I haven't been ocean kayaking in a very long time, so I was really excited to go. Even though it was overcast, it was still really hot out, and the breeze from the ocean plus the water splashing on us from the paddles kept us nice and cool.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcUvhoQp2PE/UAM5xiCeNCI/AAAAAAAACek/zuBuksIMEmA/s1600/IMG_0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcUvhoQp2PE/UAM5xiCeNCI/AAAAAAAACek/zuBuksIMEmA/s640/IMG_0052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I planned to take my camera, but the rental guy strongly recommended leaving it behind since it isn't waterproof. He asked "do you really need to take it?" And I was like ""YES! I need it!" I'm a blogger! Why don't people understand? <b>You can't take a camera away from a blogger.</b><br />
<br />
I realized he was right, and I probably would ruin it, so I left it with him. I did manage to get a picture of the paddles before our excursion. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8D1lAaUwHs/UAM58IMurTI/AAAAAAAACes/paOyNLLM9fE/s1600/IMG_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8D1lAaUwHs/UAM58IMurTI/AAAAAAAACes/paOyNLLM9fE/s640/IMG_0053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
We got a double kayak for an hour and a half. When we asked how we were supposed to know when our time was up (we had no phones or watches) the rental guy told us to ask someone on the beach. We didn't end up doing that, and just went back in when we thought we had been out long enough, and we ended up coming in a half hour early! Oh well! <br />
<br />
Kayaking is really good exercise. It was a great arm workout for me. I decided to look up how many calories are burned in one hour of kayaking.<br />
<br />
"According to the American Council on Exercise, a 125-lb. person burns
283 calories per hour of kayaking while a 150-lb. person burns 340, a
175-lb. person burns 397 calories and a 200-lb. person burns 454
calories. Higher body weight requires increased energy expenditure for
activity." <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/306460-calories-burned-per-hour-of-kayaking/#ixzz20jMEQLnQ">Source</a><br />
<br />
I <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/306460-calories-burned-per-hour-of-kayaking/#ixzz20jMEQLnQ">also learned</a> that kayaking burns less calories than running at 5.5 mph for one hour (obvious), burns more calories than cycling at 5.5 mph for 1 hour, and burns the same amount of calories as playing softball for 1 hour. Interesting...<br />
<br />
When we came back ashore, we walked around Lynch park. I had never been there before, so I had no idea how pretty it is. Meaghan showed me the Rose Garden, where she said lots of people take pictures for proms and weddings there. It was stunning! My pictures don't do it justice at all.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAGYNEBKDJs/UAM9dPw1PmI/AAAAAAAACe4/XXZC5Extqew/s1600/IMG_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAGYNEBKDJs/UAM9dPw1PmI/AAAAAAAACe4/XXZC5Extqew/s640/IMG_0054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MVWOUFvi6BA/UAM9fv4oXhI/AAAAAAAACfA/F9NgCR5YwR8/s1600/IMG_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MVWOUFvi6BA/UAM9fv4oXhI/AAAAAAAACfA/F9NgCR5YwR8/s640/IMG_0055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
After burning all those calories kayaking, we decided to replace them with a nice lunch. We went to <a href="http://www.hale-street.com/">Hale St Tavern, Oyster, and Sushi Bar.</a> I was intrigued by this strange combination. Do Oysters go with Sushi? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8Gbjy1jOd8/UAM-lpHpeAI/AAAAAAAACfU/pAJ1jGr2eMg/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h8Gbjy1jOd8/UAM-lpHpeAI/AAAAAAAACfU/pAJ1jGr2eMg/s640/IMG_0058.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AhaW95EHoU/UAM-j1XzUbI/AAAAAAAACfQ/34RQegnzJA4/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AhaW95EHoU/UAM-j1XzUbI/AAAAAAAACfQ/34RQegnzJA4/s640/Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Meg is brave and ordered 5 oysters. I'm too much of a chicken to try them. I can barely eat mussels without getting freaked out, so I'm definitely not ready for oysters. They do look really fun to eat though! Maybe I'll add trying an oyster to my summer bucket list (that doesn't exist yet...).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-xEP08P6mI/UAM-noVvb1I/AAAAAAAACfg/Q2vNJcU0rr8/s1600/IMG_0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s-xEP08P6mI/UAM-noVvb1I/AAAAAAAACfg/Q2vNJcU0rr8/s400/IMG_0063.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
We shared an order of edamame. Yum! You can never go wrong with edamame It's so tasty. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tG_gYvJJqww/UAM-pYjkVvI/AAAAAAAACfo/-3CmLq-tvW8/s1600/IMG_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tG_gYvJJqww/UAM-pYjkVvI/AAAAAAAACfo/-3CmLq-tvW8/s400/IMG_0064.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I also ordered the Hawaii Sushi roll. It was unreal. I'm a weirdo and only like cooked sushi, so this one was right up my alley. It had coconut shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and topped with pineapple salsa. It was really good. It was one of those dishes that you don't want to end. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWXu79ajXoc/UAM-rPOud9I/AAAAAAAACfw/gcMnCBYnbfs/s1600/IMG_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWXu79ajXoc/UAM-rPOud9I/AAAAAAAACfw/gcMnCBYnbfs/s640/IMG_0065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
A lovely day with a lovely friend. :)<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful night everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-54997610084925804652012-07-12T06:59:00.000-04:002012-07-12T09:09:56.903-04:00Half Marathon Training PlanI had a minor freak-out on Monday:<br />
<br />
<b>My <a href="http://www.131boston.com/">Half Marathon</a> is in 10 weeks!</b><br />
<br />
How did that happen?<br />
<br />
In April I printed out a training plan that would lead me up to September for the Half marathon, but I haven't really been following it, and I started to get nervous. <br />
<br />
On June 18th, having not run more than 6.5 miles since March, I went out and ran 10 miles.<br />
I think I just wanted to prove to myself that I could still do it, and I<i> could</i> do it, but it wasn't pleasant and I ended up <b>being sore for 3 days</b>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBlpXey4DlQ/T_zNdbSZudI/AAAAAAAACd8/Y62jN1haqaE/s1600/10er.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBlpXey4DlQ/T_zNdbSZudI/AAAAAAAACd8/Y62jN1haqaE/s640/10er.png" width="640" /></a></div>
My knees were killing me, and I knew it was time for new shoes. I headed to <a href="http://www.marathonsports.com/">Marathon Sports </a>and got fitted. I also got a new sports bra so I can run with one instead of three. You can read about that experience <a href="http://www.macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/if-shoe-fits.html">here.</a> <br />
<br />
Now that I got the right shoes, the right bra, and the right attitude, I'm ready to take my training more seriously!<br />
<br />
I use <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/smartcoach/">Smart Coach</a> for all my race training. I logged on and entered my recent 5k time (so they could gauge my pace), how many miles I want to run a week, and what day I would want my long run to be. <br />
<br />
Here is what it said my training should look like for the next 5 weeks:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTezAiatqUw/T_zMcVmPAFI/AAAAAAAACd0/O0pEEkDlyL0/s1600/training+plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTezAiatqUw/T_zMcVmPAFI/AAAAAAAACd0/O0pEEkDlyL0/s640/training+plan.png" width="608" /></a></div>
<br />
I like this plan because it only has one long run a week on Sundays and the rest of the weekday runs are on the short/totally manageable end. I know that will work for me since I have to do my runs after work, and I know I wouldn't want to run 8 or 9 miles after working all day.<br />
<br />
At the end of the 5 weeks, I plan to update you guys on how my training is going, and to share the training plan for the last 5 weeks of training. I'm feeling pretty confident right now, but that could change if I get discouraged and fall off the motivation train. <br />
<br />
I really really really want to finish the race in 2 hours, which would mean running at a 9:09 min/mile pace, <a href="http://www.users.on.net/%7Eklima/rkcalc_hmi.htm">according to this calculator</a>. I don't like to get my hopes up too much, because I know If I don't make my goal, I'll be beating myself up about it. In the past, I have cried after races when I didn't make my goal. I need to learn to <b>appreciate my body</b> and it's ability to run this distance, and not just focus on the time. My main goal should be to get to the finish line. I'd like to do it without stopping to walk, and without crying/getting frustrated. If I can do that, I think I'll be a happy girl.<br />
<br />
:)<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Have you ever cried or felt disappointed after a race? I'd love to know I'm not the only one!</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795436939021509528.post-4239706572618874302012-07-11T06:52:00.002-04:002012-07-11T09:19:45.788-04:00WIAW: Back to Reality EatsHello! It's that time again, today is What I Ate Wednesday!<br />
This is my third round of the weekly food journal party that Jen hosts over at <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/">Peas and Crayons</a>. Thanks again for hosting, Jen! P.S read her <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/07/facebook-flashlights-and-fake-proposals.html">proposal story</a>, pretty cute and funny.<br />
<br />
This WIAW is called "Back to Reality eats" because all last week I was on staycation, which makes eating healthy a lot easier. Eating healthy during the work week involves more planning and prepping, which is difficult when you're short on time. That's why I've gotten into a weekday breakfast and lunch routine of oatmeal+peanut butter and then a sandwich or salad with protein for lunch. It's a little boring, but at least I know it's going to keep me satisfied until my next meal. Staying full/satisfied is very important to me since I have a semi-irrational <b>fear of being hungry</b>. My worst nightmare is not bringing enough food to last me through the day. I spend most days rationing out my snacks all day so I can make it to my commute home with energy. There's nothing worse (for me) than starving on the train ride home. <br />
<br />
All food here was from Tuesday, July 10th, aka <a href="http://whattheheckholidays.wetpaint.com/page/Don%27t+Step+on+a+Bee+Day">Don't Step on a Bee Day </a>(Important one for me since I'm allergic to bee stings), <a href="http://familycrafts.about.com/od/holidays/p/teddybearpicnic.htm">Teddy Bear Picnic day</a>, and <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/abc-blogs/recipes-national-pina-colada-day-180342284--abc-news-Recipes.html">Pina Colada Day</a>! Bet you didn't know about any of those holidays! I'm just a wealth of information.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1heUQI5z3rE/T_COCC9RT9I/AAAAAAAAGjE/WZ9eKTyKOtY/s1600/WIAW+fun+food+fitness+july+button.jpg" /></a></center>
<b>Breakfast:</b><br />
Oatmeal with a scoop of Wild Harvest Organic Peanut Butter, Blueberries, Blackberries + Coffee<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uIMSwM0meME/T_y_78zlr3I/AAAAAAAACc4/lS42zNKncJw/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uIMSwM0meME/T_y_78zlr3I/AAAAAAAACc4/lS42zNKncJw/s400/IMG_0332.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zkyn5bDAtc/T_y_1aCZtYI/AAAAAAAACcw/uIBRR1RnM3A/s1600/IMG_0330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zkyn5bDAtc/T_y_1aCZtYI/AAAAAAAACcw/uIBRR1RnM3A/s400/IMG_0330.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Snack:</b><br />
1 Clementine and some of <a href="http://www.wickedpotatoes.com/">Tracy's</a> walnuts and raisins (she's good at sharing)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GDMtQVprgrQ/T_zDtf0E6aI/AAAAAAAACdo/HZNfOVzFM6Y/s1600/_MG_9973%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GDMtQVprgrQ/T_zDtf0E6aI/AAAAAAAACdo/HZNfOVzFM6Y/s320/_MG_9973%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Lunch:</b><br />
Turkey+Provolone on Multi-Grain Bread with Honey Dijon Mustard<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtsqGeL5WO4/T_zADgvpSYI/AAAAAAAACdA/6hbEQklDNFc/s1600/IMG_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtsqGeL5WO4/T_zADgvpSYI/AAAAAAAACdA/6hbEQklDNFc/s640/IMG_0333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7dgYluCcyIo/T_zAEXJ5vBI/AAAAAAAACdI/7SsErvfJtnA/s1600/IMG_0334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7dgYluCcyIo/T_zAEXJ5vBI/AAAAAAAACdI/7SsErvfJtnA/s320/IMG_0334.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgvI8RRpqZI/T_zAFI9a1ZI/AAAAAAAACdQ/geWrXQgf28Y/s1600/IMG_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgvI8RRpqZI/T_zAFI9a1ZI/AAAAAAAACdQ/geWrXQgf28Y/s320/IMG_0336.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
1 BabyBel Cheese<br />
another small handful of Walnuts<br />
<br />
<b>Snack:</b><br />
1 handful Animal Crackers + 2 tbsp peanut butter (no pic, felt awkward taking one in front of my coworkers...)<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Workout:</b><br />
I ran a short 2 miles after work. I ran at a 9:46 pace and finished in 19 minutes and 39 seconds. Not impressive by any means, but I was still sore from Monday's Crossfit Trial (more on that later) that I couldn't go any faster and I didn't want to push myself. A short and slow run is better than no run!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkgtemZqLiM/T_19Wxrs6ZI/AAAAAAAACeU/1qKbe4MMTAk/s1600/2+miles.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkgtemZqLiM/T_19Wxrs6ZI/AAAAAAAACeU/1qKbe4MMTAk/s640/2+miles.bmp" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Dinner:</b><br />
1 Glass of Sweet Tea<br />
Wacky Mac with sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, and marinara sauce, topped with Parmesan, very similar to <a href="http://macncheesenpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/wiaw-staycation-eats.html">last Tuesday's dinner</a>. I guess I'm a creature of habit. I did try to jazz it up by using Wacky Mac instead of regular pasta. It was fun, I like to eat shapes, especially wheels.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ThV4V53ma2k/T_zBTRBrV6I/AAAAAAAACdY/uGFki6aPf0o/s1600/_MG_9965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ThV4V53ma2k/T_zBTRBrV6I/AAAAAAAACdY/uGFki6aPf0o/s640/_MG_9965.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qqWFh-THU-0/T_zBXf-QKBI/AAAAAAAACdg/Z18wGamEwzU/s1600/_MG_9970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qqWFh-THU-0/T_zBXf-QKBI/AAAAAAAACdg/Z18wGamEwzU/s400/_MG_9970.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
Nothing like a big ole glass of sweet tea in a mason jar with a handle! These are my favorite glasses. <br />
<br />
I ended my day with a little bedtime snack. A bowl of Wild Harvest Cherry Almond Granola topped with the last of the blueberries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CcZhwmAFZMQ/T_zX04q1OyI/AAAAAAAACeI/EW0xzVcRnbI/s1600/_MG_9977%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CcZhwmAFZMQ/T_zX04q1OyI/AAAAAAAACeI/EW0xzVcRnbI/s640/_MG_9977%5B1%5D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621168213199548629noreply@blogger.com2