Thursday, August 13, 2009

Break from the Norm

I started off the day with the usual AG Smoothie but added in a few too many ice cubes and it was watery. Not too bad though and once again it started off my day on the right track. I love that!

Work has been crazy but that is good because 1) Job Security and 2) The day flies by.

I was able to get outside for some much needed sunshine. The office is frrrreeezing and I am always dressed as if it is winter. I get outside and practically have to take my layers off.

Today was a nice day, not too hot and not too humid. I ate lunch with a co-worker and chatted about upcoming vacations! Can't wait to go to Hawaii next month! YAY!

Lunch:
~ Apple
~ WW Tortilla with Turkey, Hummus, Spinach and Tomato
~ Vanilla Yogurt (plain and it was pretty good without the usual granola and fruit added in)


Giveaways:
~ Great Giveaway from Health, Happiness, Hope
~ Happy Birthday Giveaway from Run to the Finish

It's A New Day

Do you ever have those days when you are excited to go on a run or have a good workout? I have them often and yesterday was one of them. I had been planning my workout in my head all day and finally got home, got ready and headed to the gym. It was going to be a good long run with a session of weights and maybe some nice cycling afterwards. I had been hoping for a good cardio day, but my body had another idea. I started on my run and at the 1 mile mark, my shins started aching. I am definitely one of those "Listen to your body" type of people so I had to slow down and walk another .5 mile. It was not the ideal but I am not going to risk any injury or setback (been there, done that). So I was bummed and did a short weight session but then headed home a little disappointed.

Workout (Failed):
~ 1.5 Miles
~ biceps

I got home and made dinner which put me in a better mood. The hubby was out with a friend at the driving range and then for dinner so I was able to make whatever I wanted and I felt like a chicken burger or my version at least.

Dinner:
~ Chicken Boca Burger on WW English Muffin with tomato, red onion and BBQ sauce
~ Banana w/ PB (while making dinner)
~ Plum (oh so juicy!)


After munching for awhile (probably had too many snacks to compensate for my disappointing workout)

Snacks throughout the night:
~ Kellog All Bran crackers
~ Cheezitz (reduced fat kind....but still bad)


I realized it was okay and tomorrow is a new day. Hopefully I can do more tomorrow but it will be a slow process. Can't do everything so fast and so soon. I probably will stretch for a lot longer and definitely take it easy for the beginning. I will get back out there and run though!

Yay for Thursday! That means the weekend is almost here............

Have a good day everyone!

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Satisfying Sandwich

I was very excited for lunch today! I have been wanting a yummy turkey sandwich for awhile and I don't like to buy my lunch so last night I assembled little containers for all my toppings. I had one for sliced tomato and onion and then a separate on for the spinach. The English muffin was toasted this morning and then I added the mustard and turkey. I don't like soggy bread at all so I had to do this. Its more work, but totally worth it!

Lunch:
~ Whole wheat English muffin with turkey, spinach, tomato, red onion and Dijon mustard
~ Tangerine
~ Almonds, Peanuts, Raisins Trail Mix

YUM!

My afternoon snack came a little early because my stomach was going to start growling so I calmed it down with yogurt and granola. It wasn't that big but just enough to satisfy me for the time being. I have a cardio workout planned for tonight so on the way home I will be eating something to fuel my run and spinning. I can't wait!

Snack:
~ Yogurt and Granola
~ Blueberries

Giveaway(s):
~ Need to try some new "Krakers"? Enter An Apple A Day's giveaway.
~ Want to try PopChips or if you love them already and want more - Enter to win at All Vegged Out

Slacker

I have been bad with keeping up on my posting and I am officially a blogging slacker!

Last night was Sushi with friends because one of our friends is an actual sushi chef so we made the trek to his restaurant for some great sushi and drinks. It was fun for a weekday dinner to get out and relax with good company. I had a Crunch Roll and split a Hot Night Roll which was a California Roll with Spicy Tuna on top. It was delish!

It was a late night but was able to catch up on Big Brother when I got home. I am was so tired afterwards, I just made my lunch and then went straight to bed. It's been an exhausting week.

Today I made the usual Amazing Grass Smoothie (it's official...I am addicted!) to drink on my way to work and then while at work had my breakfast.

Breakfast:
~ Banana
~ Puffins with N/F Milk
~ AG Smoothie

I have to get back to my piles of work right now so I will check back later! Hope you are having a happy Hump Day!

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Loving Amazing Grass

Yesterday was super busy so I was not able to get in an afternoon post. My lunch was a hummus, cucumber, and tomato wrap on a WW tortilla. (YUM, I love these from Whole Foods!)

I also had a Coffee Bean Non Fat, No Sugar Added Carmel Latte (to die for!). I needed the pick me up to get me through the afternoon. On Sunday night I only slept 4 hours and that was just not enough for me! I was dragging Monday afternoon. When the day was finally over, I ate a banana on my ride home and was pleasantly surprised that there was little to no traffic! WooHoo!!!

I got home and met the hubby at the gym in our complex. Mondays are my rest days, but I needed to get in some weights so I did a light workout. I ran for 1 mile as a warm-up and then did legs and shoulders, abs and push ups.

Workout:
~ 1 Mile Run
~ shoulders
~ legs
~ 100 sit ups
~ 20 push ups

For dinner we had Ahi Tuna steaks in a spicy cilantro marinade (Whole Foods), some guacamole, rice and steamed veggies.

This morning I didn't get up for my run and am a little disappointed in myself for hitting snooze countless times. We have plans for a sushi dinner with friends so I won't be able to get in a run today. I guess today is my rest day and I will add some more miles here and there throughout the week.

I did make a AG Smoothie - this time I added in some frozen blueberries. I had a big carton from last week and froze some in advance because I didn't think I could eat them all before they went bad. I am so glad I did because they really tasted great in the smoothie. And the best part of all is the the hubby likes it too!

AG Smoothie:
~ 1 cup soy milk
~ 1/4 c water
~ 1 tbsp flaxseed
~ 2 scoops AG Chocolate powder
~ 1/4 blueberries
~ 1 frozen banana
~ 1 tbsp PB

YUM-O

Hope you are having a good Tuesday!

Any Amazing Grass recipes that I should try?

Monday, August 10, 2009

Brief Blogging Day


This morning I had to start off with another Amazing Grass smoothie. This time I added in flaxseed and made enough for the hubby again.

AG Smoothie:
~ 2 scoops Amazing Grass Chocolate Green SuperFood~ 1 Frozen banana~ 1 tbsp PB~ 1/4 cup soy milk~ 1/4 cup water
~ 1 tbsp ground flaxseed~ ice cubes
YUM-O! I took mine to go so I could have it as I was on my way to work. I left the other half for the hubby to have with his breakfast.

When I got to work I had my real breakfast.

Breakfast:
~ Puffins with n/f milk
~ plum
~ AG smoothie

I have a ton of work to catch up on so sorry for the brief post of nothing too interesting. I will be back after lunch for another brief one!

Hope you are having a great day!

Giveaway(s):

~ Want some Greek Yogurt, enter here!

Amazing Weekend

I guess I have to admit something. I am not a weekend blogger. I seem to only blog on the weekdays when I am in front of a computer and on a break from work. For now, that will have to do but eventually I would love to get a better laptop so that I can do it on the weekends from home.

Speaking of weekends......

Friday:
My Friday night was eventful for a few reasons. First, the hubby and I had California Chicken Cafe which has one of my favorite salads. I always get the Chinese Chicken Salad which has romaine, chicken, carrots, almonds, pasta, green onion and dressing. It's delish! The hubby got white meat chicken with rice and ww pita. I love how he makes his own wraps with the rice and chicken and a great BBQ sauce and of course hot sauce. (The hubby has to spice everything up!)

After Dinner, we headed to Target to pick up some things for the hubby's fishing trip. He needed a cooler, Dramamine and some snacks. We got what we needed and headed home because we had to get ready for our friend's engagement party at a lounge in Hollywood. We wanted to get there early so that we could spend enough time with everyone before we had to leave. The hubby had a long drive to Orange County at 1:30am. Fisherman! They seriously love what they do because they had to be at the boat at 3AM!! I am not sure there are many things besides sleeping that I would want to be doing at 3AM! Anyways, the party was fun and we got to catch up with friends. The hubby took off after dropping me at home and I was able to relax and watch TV before calling it a night.

Saturday:
Saturday mornings are my long run days and this Saturday did not disappoint. I woke up feeling good and ready for a run. Last Saturday I was able to do 8 miles so for this run I wanted to do a little more. I wasn't sure exactly how much I would be able to do though because I had struggled on some of my weekday runs. It started out okay but I wasn't quite feeling good until about mile 4. That is when I felt great and knew I was going to be able to do the 8 miles and then some. I was able to complete 9 miles and probably could have done more but had a scheduled pedicure with a friend to get to so I was happy with that distance and how I felt. I was drenched, but it was totally worth it. I ate yogurt, berries and flax seed after showering and took a PB&J with me because I knew I would be hungry while driving.

The pedicure was delightful! I cannot say enough about it. I love the massage they give and I finally have real feet again. From all the working out and wearing heels, I have terrible feet but they are back to normal now and I am feeling good! I love pedicures! Afterwards we needed a pick me up and stopped for caffeine at where else? Coffee Bean, of course! I had a Iced N/F No Sugar Added Carmel Latte. It was everything I was hoping for and more! We caught up and had a few laughs which was nice.

Dinner was Indian food which is something I rarely get because the hubby doesn't like it. Oh how I love it! I had to take advantage of him being gone in order to get my Indian food craving satisfied. I had chicken masala curry with rice and it was delish! The mango lassie was everything I had been hoping for. It was a perfect evening. (minus my better half, of course). I went home and the hubby was back with Yellowtail that he caught! It was massive! He was so tired so he crashed right away but read my book before finally falling asleep.

Sunday:
Sunday was an AMAZING day. I finally got out the blender and had my first Amazing Grass Chocolate Green Superfood Smoothie. Wow that is a long name! It was delish!

AG Smoothie:
~ 1 Packet Amazing Grass Chocolate Green SuperFood
~ 1/2 Frozen banana
~ 1 TBSP PB
~ 1/4 cup soy milk
~ 1/4 cup water
~ ice cubes

I love this and so did the hubby! It was a success so thank you Amazing Grass!

The hubby had to go get golf clubs so I was off to Whole Foods for a much needed shopping trip. I had to get meals for the week. Oh and of course more Amazing Grass. It was a very successful trip, but when is it not? I love so much there that I basically could go broke if I spent too much time and didn't go with a list. I always get way more than I need, but that is part of the fun isn't it?

Lunch was a hummus wrap and white nectarine.

It was Sunday Soccer so the hubby and I went early so that he could hit some golf balls with his new clubs. I am still trying to learn and so I really am bad. It's quite frustrating to see him do it so easily, but it motivates me too. I really want to go on some golf trips with him so I am trying to get a decent swing. (Very Very Hard to do!) I munched on a PB and Banana sandwich before the game so I wasn't completely starving. Soccer was a success (we won 5-0) and we ended up eating Vietnamese food with a friend afterwards.

I was beat when I got home so I did laundry while watching Entourage and Big Brother. What a weekend!

Friday, August 7, 2009

Freaky Friday

It was a Freaky Friday for sure! I never sleep though my alarm, but today I did! This morning I overslept (boo!) and had to rush out the door. I was lucky to have gotten my lunch ready the night before so I could just grab and go. I love that!

I had a quick breakfast at my desk and then I had to tackle all the emails that were patiently needing some attention.

Breakfast:

~ Whole Wheat Toast with PB and Strawberry jam
~ Apple
~ Lots of H2O

I was able to break for lunch just when I was starting to get hungry. I went outside on the patio to catch up on some reading and to defrost as usual. I wasn't able to get to my book because I had great company from a few co-workers. It's nice to chat about our daily lives as opposed to crazy work stuff.

Lunch:
~ Hummus on WW pita with Cucumber, Red Onion and Tomato
~ carrots
~ trail mix - dessert!

Time to get back to it so that I am not here all night and I can enjoy my weekend without the extra work.

I am excited to do some fun shopping this weekend. The hubby is off for a fishing trip so I am heading to lunch and shopping with a friend. It should be some fun girl time and hopefully we will find great deals while we are at it. I may have to add a pedicure in there too. (Ilove getting pampered!) A long run is in store for me in the morning and a pedicure always is nice the afternoon of a long run.

Do you get pedicures? If so, how often?

Have a great afternoon / evening!

Giveaway Alert:
~ Check out Running Around Normal for a Larabar giveaway!

Breakfast for Dinner

Late post today. Fridays are always super busy for me.

Last night I hit a lot of traffic on the way home so I had the hubby take off for the gym without me. I knew I was just going to do a long run and then maybe some weights. The timing was perfect. I went off on a 5 Mile run and then came back for some abs, push ups and stretching. By the time I was showered and relaxed, the hubby came through the door.

Workout:
~ 5 Miles
~ Abs, Push ups, Stretching

Tonight was the perfect night for the egg white scramble I have been wanting for awhile. While he was showering and catching up on baseball, I prepped dinner. I chopped onion, mushrooms and tomato. Sauteed some spinach and the rest of the ingredients. When it was all ready we wrapped the scrumptious scramble in a Whole Foods WW tortilla with a little ketchup and hot sauce. It was delicious! I had steamed some carrots and broccoli for more veggies.

Dinner:
~ Egg White Scramble with Onion, tomato, mushrooms and spinach on WW tortilla
~ Carrots and Broccoli on the side

I was not completely full so afterwards I had a bowl of heaven.

Dessert:
~ Yogurt with Blueberries and granola

Be back with more later......

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Typical Thursday

It is a typical Thursday for me. I had a pretty easy commute (thank goodness!), great breakfast and not too many work emails waiting for me in the inbox. I can't complain!

Breakfast:
~ Puffins w/ non-fat milk
~ Banana w/ PB
~ Coffee Bean NSA (no sugar added) Latte-- needed a boost today!

I love that Coffee Bean already uses non fat milk in all their drinks. I am definitely a N/F milk girl. I just love it! It makes ordering so much easier. I just have to make sure to ask for the no sugar added. It's a great latte.

I wanted to get out of the office so I went to the patio to read my magazines and eat lunch. There is something so refreshing about getting out of the freeezzzing office to enjoy lunch.

Lunch:
~ Turkey Sandwich on WW Oroweat Winter Wheat Bread with mustard, tomato and red onion
~ Sliced Apple
~ Lots o' H2O

I am planning on hitting the gym tonight after work so I had to eat something to hold me over until dinner (which will probably be another late one).

Snack:
~ Amazing Grass Green SuperFood Chocolate Bar

This was so good! I can't believe it's good for me too. I think I will be full for awhile and hopefully will be able to get in a really nice run. Can't wait! Have a good evening everyone. It's almost Friday! YAY!

Sweat Session & Din Din

On my drive home last night, the hubby called and said he was going to be working late and wouldn't be able to get home in time for our gym date. Despite this, I was excited still to go to the gym. I missed my morning run and needed to get some "me" time in. I love listening to my iPod and running aimlessly on the treadmill. I just think and it's calming to me. I was able to get in 3.5 miles and then did weights.

Since the hubby was going to be late, I decided to make dinner instead of just having a quick meal like I was planning.

Workout:
~ 3.5 Mile Run
~ 50 Abs
~ 20 push ups
~ 36 lunges (2 sets)
~ Back and Biceps day

After my sweat session, I snacked on a banana w/ PB and a delicious cold white nectarine while making dinner. I was able to catch up on some brainless TV while the rice and chicken were cooking. It was a relaxing evening at home.

Dinner:
~ Baked Orange Chicken, White Rice, Steamed Carrots and Broccoli and a spinach salad for me
(big meal but totally yummy and one of the hubby's favorites)

Dinner was delicious, but worth the wait. I love eating at the dining table with the hubby. We get to catch up on the day and spend some time talking about random thoughts. (ex: he is going to invent a way to evenly put sunscreen on your back -- he got too much sun from surfing this past weekend)

Giveaway Central:
~ Check out Fit and Fabulous for a Chobani Yogurt giveaway!

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Break Time

Do you have those days when you never know when you will have a moment for lunch? Well, today was one of those days for me. I was so busy and as the morning went on, I was still satisfied and full from my breakfast so I didn't even notice the time had passed. By the time I started to get hungry it was 1:30pm. My stomach was telling me it was time for lunch! A much needed break.

Lunch:
~ Spinach Salad with TJs Fat Free Balsamic Dressing, tomatoes, cucumber, and carrots
~ Mini WW pita with hummus
~ Pink Lady Apple

I like to eat a snack around 3 or 4PM because that usually holds me over if I am going for a night workout or if the hubby will be home late and we are planning on eating after 8PM. It definitely helps me stay satisfied and gives me energy to get through the last part of the workday and then the commute home.

Snack:
~ Green tea with dash of honey
~ trail mix - almonds, peanuts, raisins, dark chocolate

I am hoping tonight I can convince the hubby to have breakfast for dinner. I have a craving for an egg white scramble wrap and think this would be a easy, healthy post-workout meal. Hopefully he will be just as excited as I am! Keeping my fingers crossed!

Sometimes Nothing Goes As Planned

Last night nothing went as planned but it ended up being a great evening. I had planned on waiting at home for the hubby to get off work so that we could go to the gym together and then eat dinner afterwards. When he got home, he had run into a friend of ours that lives in the next complex over and said they wanted to grab dinner. I love eating out with friends so this was a rare weekday treat for us. I quickly changed and then we were off. We walked to a local Japanese restaurant and I really felt like having curry rice with pork. It was delicious and really hit the spot. I know this may not be the healthiest option but I wanted it and I am not one of those that will restrict myself from something that I want. We had a great dinner and catching up with them.

And then something great happened......as we were walking outside the restaurant a Pinkberry omployee was handing out samples of their new flavors: Coocnut and Passion Fruit. We all had to try it! I will admit that I was not the biggest Pinkberry fan just because I had tried others and liked them more, but these new flavors really hit the spot. They were not too overwhelming and actually refreshing. We all decided to have dessert there. The hubby and I shared a tropical swirl (coconut and passion fruit yogurt) with granola. It was a great end to a fabulous meal.

I love making sure that I am satisfied and sometimes I don't make the healthiest choices, but it is okay with me. I like to enjoy my food and that is just part of life. Some people can go without chocolate or fro-yo, but I am not that girl! I will eat what I love and enjoy it without the guilt. It is a nice feeling.

Happy Humpday!

Today is a new day and I started having a fabulous morning. While I would have loved to get in a morning run, my body wasn't feeling it. I slept one more hour and was okay with that because I have time after work today. The hubby and I love going to the gym together so we are planning on doing that after work since we didn't get to yesterday.

I had breakfast before work today which was a nice change. I normally have it at my desk, but was up and ready early so I ate at home.

Breakfast:
~ 2 slices of WW Oroweat Winter Wheat Bread w/ PB and 1/2 banana
~ 1/2 banana
~ Glass of Nonfat Milk

Now it's time to buckle down and make some money! Work work work!

See you all later.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Something New to Try!

Good Afternoon!


I have decided I am going to add flaxseed to my fruit/yogurt combos. I have been reading about it for awhile and am going to take the plunge. Other bloggers add it to their various meals and seem to love it so I am going to jump on the flaxseed bandwagon. There are many reasons which I am not going to go into on the blog. Hopefully it works! I will let you know how I like it.

If anyone has any suggestions on other places I can add my flaxseed, please let me know.

No Rush Morning

This morning I wasn't able to get in a run, but I was able to take more time in getting ready, packing my breakfast, lunch and snacks. I love those days when I am not rushing out the door. It definitely makes my drive to work so much less stressful. As I was in the car listening to the radio (which I am totally getting sick of) I ate my banana and was daydreaming about how fun it would be if I didn't have to work today.

Breakfast:
~ Banana on the go
~ Yogurt, Blueberries, Granola

I was the only one here in my department today so it looks like it will be a busy day. So much for that day dream coming true! It's just the opposite.

Lunch:
~ A white Nectarine
~ WW tortilla with hummus and spinach
~ almonds

I am a creature of habit I guess. I really love eating the same things over and over again. I don't get sick of most things if I truly love them. That is why I am not so creative with my meals. I am going to try really hard to come up with some new variations to my dinners. That would definitely please the hubby. He doesn't complain at all but I would love to be able to make him new and tasty dishes for dinner. We'll see what happens!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Munchies

This afternoon has flown by. I finally got to get a lot work done after a short meeting (I love short meetings!) I was hungry while working away and so I needed a snack to hold me over before dinner.

Snack:
~ yummy trail mix - unsalted almonds, peanuts, raisins, sunflower seeds, dark chocolate chips

For dinner I am planning on baking teriyaki marinated pork chops with carrots and broccoli on the side. As usual, I will have white rice for the hubby and a spinach side salad for moi! Hopefully it will be a relaxing night at home without too many distractions.


Hope everyone is having a good day!

Lunchie Munchie

Hope everyone is having a good Monday!

Today is my rest day so I didn't have to get up super early for a morning run. It's bittersweet for me. I love my morning workouts but at the same time I don't want to push my body too hard. I am getting old! It's nice to rest and surprisingly I am not too sore today. I usually am pretty sore on Monday mornings after soccer, but not today. (hmmm I wonder what that means?) I thought for sure I would be since we didn't have any subs and I played the whole game. It's a good feeling though because maybe I am getting to a point where I am able to do a little more each day w/o suffering the soreness consequences. We will see this week as I have planned some 4-6 mile runs with a 10 mile one on Saturday.

Breakfast:
~ Bowl of puffins w/ skim milk
~ Banana w/ PB

I had the banana before leaving for work and then the rest of my breakfast at my desk. Mondays are pretty busy so I was eating while catching up on all my work. I wish I could plan my day better so that I don't have to do this, but I somehow always manage to run a little late and have to take my breakfast to-go.

Lunch was a little earlier today since I have a meeting at 1pm. I didn't want to go in hungry because who knows how long it will last. It's freezing in my office so this was a nice way to warm up. The hubby thinks I am nuts for having soup in the summer, but it really is delicious when I am cold at work. (I am currently wearing a pashmina to keep myself warm while I work).

Lunch:
~ Cup of TJ Creamy Tomato soup
~ Slice of WW Oroweat Winter Wheat Bread
~ Grapes

Back to work now! I will check-in later and hopefully will have more updates.

A confession: I am a little scared to post pics of my food. It is never looks as appetizing as some of you wonderful bloggers out there! I don't know how you do it!

Weekend Recap

Hi everyone! Sorry to have one big recap every Monday morning (LA time). I just can't get on the computer at home as much as I should on the weekends. I am in front of one all day every weekday so its hard to get back on when I am home. As I get more used to this blogging thing, I will make an effort to do more posting throughout the weekend....and more pics too!

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

Friday:
Friday was hectic at work, but I was able to get off at a decent hour. I made it home just in time to change and then head back out for dinner with my in-laws. It was a good meal and I was stuffed from Korean BBQ. Then we went out for my favorite dessert... Red Mango. YUM! Original fro-yo with Blueberries and dark chocolate. Loved it. The hubby had to work so we went home and while he worked I cleaned up and watched brainless TV.

Saturday:
Saturday was wonderful and it was all because of my 8.5 mile run. I haven't completed a run over 6 miles in a very long time so this was such a great feeling. I probably could have gone longer but I was starting to feel it in my knees and I didn't want to push too hard on my first long run. I was drenched in sweat but had the best feeling of accomplishment afterwards. I had a banana and PB before showering and then afterwards I was starving so I had a big bowl of yogurt, blueberries and granola. I might have had another banana with PB but who's counting? The hubby was off surfing and so I went to get a manicure. I really needed a pedicure but with soccer on Sunday they get messed up so quickly, that I decided against it. It was good to just relax and unwind for a little. Lunch was hummus and cucumbers on a WW pita. I also stopped at Coffee Bean for a No Sugar Added Pomegranate Blueberry Ice Blended. Love those on hot summer days!

Dinner was sushi with my parents and my niece because they had come to LA to watch Fiddler on the Roof at the Pantages Theater. It was fun to have them over and to go eat delicious sushi. I was so tired after my run that I fell asleep on the couch while the hubby was working.

Sunday:
I got a late start on Sunday and got up and headed out with the hubby to try Umami Burger for lunch. We had wanted to try it before but our plans changed at the last minute. It was an adorable place. I loved the decorations and the menu was simple and straightforward. I love that! I chose the Turkey Miso Burger with avocado relish. It was so good, but so greasy. I don't think I could eat this very often. It wasn't heavy, but my hands were soaked in grease. Not a great thing in my book. The hubby got the Umami Burger x 6 which was also delicious but greasy. The flavors of both burgers were really good, but I could tell that the bun was brushed with butter. That turned me off just a little. I would probably choose another place to eat if I were craving a burger because I don't eat them all that often and when I do, I don't want to be swimming in grease. It was great to try.

After lunch we headed to my parents house for some fun times and dinner with the family. After dinner off we went to another Sunday soccer game. This time we had 9 players (you should have 11 on the field and then subs on the side) and the other team had 17! Not a good start. We were able to play really well and kept the score tied at 2-2 (I finally scored a goal for this season) and then ended up losing 5-2. It was a well fought match, but they were too good. I was tired!

Overall it was another fabulous weekend!

Friday, July 31, 2009

TGIF

Last Night Recap:

It was a good evening. I got home without too much traffic (which is a cause for celebration in LA). I was not ready to turn on the oven and make dinner since it was so hot, so I started some cleaning around the house and was surprised when the hubby came through the door around 6:30pm. This has been a good week for him. Usually he doesn't get home until 7:30 or 8pm.

I knew he wanted to go to the gym so I tagged along since I didn't get a complete workout in the AM. I wanted to get in more cardio and then more weights. I hit up the elliptical for 60 minutes (not a hard workout) and then added some weights to complete the daily workout. I was beat!

I didn't want to make dinner so we just gathered up the veggies and made wraps. The hubby had a turkey wrap on WW tortilla with cucumbers, tomatoes and red onion. I had a WW tortilla wrap with hummus, cucumber, tomato and red onion! Yum. It was so good, I had another one. Afterwards, we lounged on the couch while watching the end of the Dodgers game (they won!) and then a DVR'd Big Brother. We both were happy!

Today:

I woke up early to get in another morning workout since I knew after work we were going to dinner. I was able to get in 4 Miles before heading back to get ready for work. Today is a court day (I work in the legal industry) so I had to get to work early to get everything I needed and ready to go.

Breakfast:
Pre-Workout Fuel - Banana with PB
Post Workout Re-Fuel - Yogurt, granola and apple

I am off to court and will hopefully be back later to write again. If not, have a fabulous weekend everyone!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Enjoying Life

Snack came around 11AM because my tummy was definitely trying to tell me something. I would have eaten something earlier but unfortunately I was in a meeting that ran over. I snacked on half an Amazing Grass bar. This was my first one so I was eager to try it out. It was good and part of me wanted to finish it, but then I knew that lunch was soon and I wouldn't eat if I was full. I saved the other half for the afternoon munchies.

Lunch was delicious. It wasn't too hot out so I decided to take my lunch outside and sit with a co-worker to enjoy the 80 degree weather. It's freezing in the office so it was a chance to warm up a little too.

Lunch:
~ salad with spinach, grape tomatoes, cucumber, carrots and TJs hummus
~ a white nectarine
~ mini whole wheat pita

Does anyone else get comments and/or looks from people when you are eating with them? I generally just brush it off. Today someone said, "You need to enjoy life and eat more fried food." The funny thing is, I enjoy what I eat so I just laughed and went right back to my yummy lunch. Fried food does not make me happy. In fact, I feel gross afterwards and end up not at all satisfied. Anyone else out there run into these situations?

Back to work already! The day is flying by which is great because soon it will be Friday.

A Good Morning

Morning Recap:
I woke up and didn't press snooze! (Yay! - goal I made with myself before bed) I jumped out of bed and was excited for my morning run. As I was getting ready I dropped the top of my favorite Coffee Bean water bottle and now it won't close properly. (Boo!) I had to search through the cabinets to find another one to take with me. I had a banana and PB as I was getting ready. I was a little late getting out so I was only able to get in 4.5 miles but it was a good run and I felt like I accomplished something. My speed at the end picked up and I wasn't tired. I could have done more but due to time and well....work, I had to end my workout.

Workout:
~ 4.5 Mile Run
~ Weights
~ Abs
~ Stretching

Mission accomplished! I got in my morning workout and now the day is going to be a good one. Don't you love that feeling? I may go to the gym with the hubby later to get in a few more miles and more strength training. I was definitely cut short today. Regardless, I feel good.

Breakfast:
~ WW toast w/ PB
~ grapes
~ lots of water

Breakfast was good and since I wasn't too hungry, I just had what my body needed. Later on I am sure I will be needing a snack. Morning runs always do that to me.
Now it's time to put in some hours of work before I break again for my snackie! Hope you are having a fabulous day!

Chipotle and Shopping

Evening Recap:
Last night I got home from work and did not want to cook or do anything. Luckily the hubby came home early and we decided to have an evening out. For us this is big on a weekday because if we are not at the gym after work, then we are eating something I have cooked and relaxing in front of the TV watching more of my brainless shows.

I wanted Chipotle and he needed some things from Dick's Sporting Goods so off we went. We got to Dick's and wandered the store. There were so many things that I would love to buy, but I was good and just ended up getting some Body Glide (really need this for my long runs) and a new pair of Rainbow sandals. If you have not tried these, then you must! They are fabulous. I love how they form to your foot and are so comfortable. They are pretty pricey but totally worth it because they have a lifetime guarantee. The hubby and I both have a pair and with the weather we have here in LA, we wear them pretty often.

After our shopping adventure, we walked over to Chipotle. I had a veggie burrito bowl with rice, black beans, lettuce, corn salsa, mild salsa, and guacamole. It was so good! The hubby had a chicken burrito bowl with the same fixins but he added the Chipotle Tabasco sauce and chips. It was spicy! I did manage to have a few bites of his because their chicken is really delicious.

We ended the evening excursion at Whole Foods. Who wouldn't love this! I managed to get more bananas, oats, some Amazing Grass, Whole Wheat tortillas, turkey and PB (of course).

It was an eventful evening and I was tired when we got home. I got ready for bed and read my book. I'll post about this morning's workout and today soon.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

No Sweet Tooth...At the Moment

This morning is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. I didn't sleep well last night and was up practically every hour. I don't know why but something kept me up. Despite all of this, I am glad it's Wednesday because that means that the weekend is almost here. YAY!

I woke up and had a slice of toast with PB while getting ready for work. After driving to work I was ready for the rest of my breakfast so I had a bowl of yogurt with TJ granola and the last of the blueberries. Note to Self: I really need to look for another good granola. I need variety in my life.

I feel really good about my workout yesteday so today I am going to try to get in another run but this time longer and a little faster. I have 3 different races that I am targeting for October, November and December.

I was even more proud of myself that I didn't have dessert last night. I rarely go without something sweet at the end of my day so this was impressive. I guess the late night workout session really did the trick because I didn't overeat at dinner and was not too full when I went to bed. I wasn't even looking for something sweet. I was very satisfied!

Today's Lunch was delicious and very satisfying. It may not all go well together but it hit the spot. Sometimes I have weird cravings that I just have to fulfill. Today it was a spicy bean burrito which I put together on the fly. YUM!

Lunch:
~ Black Beans, Corn and Salsa in TJ's WW Tortilla
~ Baby Carrots
~ Grapes

I have been so busy today that I have no idea what this evening has in store for me. Stay tuned!

Cardio Jam Session

Last night I had a cardio jam session at the gym. The hubby got off work fairly early so we decided to go to the gym (the real one, not the small one in our complex). I normally like to go for classes, but never time it accordingly so I was ready for a great, long run. Unfortunately when we got there, the treadmills were all taken so I first hopped on the stairmaster, then ran and then did my own spin class. It was absolutely fabulous! I was drenched in sweat but what a great feeling. Normally I would have liked to run for 60 minutes but because there were so many broken treadmills, people would often be waiting. I was able to run for 40 minutes before someone was waiting for an open treadmill. I felt so good, I did not want to get off, but someone was waiting so I couldn't stay on any longer.

Cardio Jam Session:
~ 30 Minute StairMaster
~ 4.15 Mile Run
~ 30 Minute Spinning
~ Stretching, Abs and Pushups

After the gym went home for dinner with the hubby. Dinner was late so I didn't want to stuff myself.

Dinner:
~ WW TJ's Tortilla with hummus, cucumber, tomato and red onion
~ grapes
~ 2 bites of hubby's leftovers (rice, corn, Korean noodles and veggies)

I ended the night folding laundry while watching the Bachelorette and Big Brother. It was a good night.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Thai Wrap

Lunch today is Asian Inspired. I love Asian food and could just about eat it all the time. In LA it is readily accessible and depending on where you are you could definitely find really good, healthy Asian food. This is one that I found on Women's Health and love it because it is so simple and basically turned my dinner leftovers into a whole new lunch option. I am a simple girl who likes simple recipes. What can I say?!

Thai Wrap
Ingredients:

~ 1 1/2 TBSP Peanut Butter
~ 1 Whole Wheat Tortilla
~ 2/3 cup chopped precooked chicken
~ 3/4 cup mixed greens or baby spinach
~ 1/4 cup carrots shredded
~ 1 tsp diced cilantro

Directions:
Spread peanut butter down center of tortilla. Add chicken and remaining ingredients. Fold outside edges in, then roll. Enjoy!

This should keep me full for a little while. I have a side of grapes and almonds for this afternoon's snack.

No Mo' Bananas


It is a sad day in my house because we ran out of bananas. TRAGIC! I rarely go without one so it will be a struggle but I will definitely try to manage. My white nectarine is going to have to step up to the plate and deliver! (I really hope it is sweet and slightly crunchy)

I got home last night and after sorting through a huge stack of mail, I started dinner and munched on a white nectarine and it was fabulous. Sweet and a little crunchy. It was cold but not too cold. Almost perfection!

Since it was rest day, when I got home I made dinner (completely different than what I had planned) of baked chicken brushed with a chili garlic sauce, rice (for the hubby), chap chae noodles (Korean style noodles with veggies - very delicious), steamed carrots and broccoli. Sounds like a lot but it was just enough for us and then another serving for the hubby for lunch today. I usually try to make enough food so that there is enough leftover for his lunch. We are both really good about not eating out (unless its work related) for lunch and he is so nice and doesn't complain when he eats the same meal over and over. Love him for that!

This morning I got up early and was able to have a bowl of puffins with n/f milk and a side of grapes before scooting out the door for work. As a continuation of breakfast at my desk I had packed a ww toast with PB. Yummy! I can feel it already. Today is going to be a good day.


Do you ever feel that way? If you have a good breakfast or early morning workout, then the rest of the day will be good too?


To Do:

Get bananas!!!

Monday, July 27, 2009

Done with Monday...Almost!

Phew! Monday at work flew by! I was so busy the time just seemed to pass so quickly.

Lunch was the trust PB & J sandwich that I can never get enough of. I also snagged a banana from the kitchen at work and decided to save my grapes for my afternoon snack with my almonds. I wasn't that hungry at lunch but had a small serving of my Cucumber, Tomato & Onion Salad (just with a tad of TJ's balsamic dressing). Great salad to fill me up. Still leftovers to top my spinach salad tonight. Love that!

I am going to head home after work and either go to the in-laws for dinner (still waiting to hear from the hubby if we are still going) or make a sweet marinade for my lean pork chops. The sides for tonight are simple, corn, spinach salad and white rice for hubby.

It's my rest day so there will be no workout in my future. If you are heading out for a run or off to the gym, have a good workout!
Have a great night everyone! Hopefully your Monday flew by too.

Is it Friday Yet?

Yep, it's another Monday. Lately, Monday mornings are getting harder for me to handle (as for most people I am sure!) I have a ton of work from the weekend to catch up on and I have so many things I want to post about. I will try to refrain from posting it all so that I don't bore the fabulous readers.

Today's Bfast was a probiotic drink, banana, and PB on half ww toast. This was a nice on - the - go meal because I was running late and had to eat some of it in the car. the Danactive probiotic drink is small and easy to take with me. I waited until I got to work to have the PB on toast though. Don't want too many crumblings in my newly washed and vacuumed car (thanks service guys!)

As I was on my long morning commute on the ever so slow 10 freeway, I was thinking about what makes me happy. Here are some tidbits I love:

~ My hubby's random weekday surprises. Sometimes he brings me little things just because. On Friday night he came home with one of my favorite things of all time, two chocolate covered strawberries! Oh my goodness were they good! Love him!
~ My westie, Naala - she is always happy to see me and never fails to give me countless kisses. Who wouldn't love this!
~ A really good run - that feeling of accomplishment afterwards is so addicting
~ Sore muscles - then I know I have worked extra hard on my workout (in a good way)
~ Peanut Butter - this just brings a smile to my face. YUM!

What makes you happy?

~Fabulous Giveaway:

Enter to win Chobani Yogurt - Meganerdruns has a great giveaway for anyone that wants to try Chobani or already loves it! Great blog too!

Weekend Roundup


What a weekend! Nothing went as I planned which was not as bad as it sounds. Let me start off with Friday night. I was anticipating going to the new gourmet burger place that I talked about on Friday, but the hubby got a call from some friends that wanted to do dinner. We never pass up a chance to meet with our friends so this ended up being a good trade off. It was a fun evening and we ended up eating burgers anyways. I had a nice turkey burger on whole wheat bun with BBQ sauce (my favorite). The hubby and I got home a little late but stayed up to watch, Watchman. I fell asleep halfway through. Needless to say, the movie wasn't enjoyable to me. The hubby liked it a little more than I did but wasn't that impressed considering he normally loves the comic type movies.

Saturday was a day of running around. I wish it was literally but I didn't get in a run at all. (BooHoo!) I had to service my car and then the hubby and I were with his friend friend while he test drove cars and then ended up purchasing one. That process takes forever!!!! When we finally made it home in the late afternoon, I plopped down on the couch and then proceeded to fall right to sleep. My one hour nap was fabulous. I woke up refreshed and ready for another dinner out with friends. This time it was at a Japanese teppan-yaki place our friend owns. It was very salty and filling but the company and entertainment was excellent. This is something I can only eat once every so often because the salty foods really get to me. I don't salt my food ever so to have someone else grill up all the veggies and meat with lots of salt, really becomes noticeable to me. I was constantly drinking water that night.

Sunday was a day with family. I visited my new niece, my sister, and my parents. Luckily they live down the street from each other so it makes my visits very easy. We all congregated at my parent's house and had some Mexican food and great fun. Then I was off to my much anticipated Sunday soccer game. I love playing but lately I haven't played as well as I would have liked. I was hoping that this game would be the turn around point for me.....and it was! I finally got my legs and touch on the ball back. It was a good feeling and even better feeling to have won the game as well.

Now it's Monday and I have to get some work done before my next post! Happy Monday to you all!

Still working on pics!

(photo from foodforthoughtcatering.ca & gohawaii.about.com)

Friday, July 24, 2009

Burger Baby

Tonight is a special night because we are eating burgers!!! AHHHHHH!! I am not sure if I am more excited I don't have to cook or if it's the burgers. The hubby and I generally eat out on weekends but lately Friday nights he has been working late and so I just end up cooking after the gym. Tonight we have planned to try Umami Burger. I am excited about it because I have heard so many good things from other people. Let's hope it's good because it is a rare occasion when I eat a burger.

Side Note:
I am a pretty picky eater. Does anyone else find that they have to tailor the orders when out at restaurants. I am always asking for certain things (dressings, sauces, cheese, meat) on the side or not at all. I do NOT like cheese (and luckily married a man that feels the same way). I don't know why but the taste really grosses me out. I am sorry to all you cheese lovers out there, but it's just not for me. I tend to contradict myself a little bit though because I do eat it on some things but it's extremely rare. Take for example pizza. I love pizza but I always order it with no cheese or light cheese, depending on where I am. The hubby and I are weird like that. We just like it that way. We think it's so delicious with all the veggies and sauce. The reason I bring this up is because a lot of gourmet burger places here in LA tend to add cheese (and bleu cheese to be exact) to their meat and there are no substitutions (which is uber annoying). I cannot stand bleu cheese, so this makes life a little difficult when ordering. Luckily, Umami Burger is not one of those places and does allow no cheese orders...Thank Goodness! Off to try something new

Have a Fabulous weekend everyone!

Perfect-o Evening

Well, as it turns out my running goal was a little too much for my legs to take on. I was able to get in 4.5 miles (which seems to be a pattern lately) and then do plenty of weight training. I was feeling good miles 1-3 and then at mile 4, my legs were telling me it was about time to stop. I probably could have done a little more after weights but I was too tired and who am I kidding, there was dinner and TV waiting for me at home. I was proud of myself for the effort

On my way home I was hungry so I ate a Larabar, some grapes and plenty of water. I was ready for my run but only after a crazy commute in traffic.

Workout:
~ 4.5 Mile Run
~ Weights
~ Abs
~ Pushups

After feeling great from the workout, I headed home to make dinner for the hubby. We picked up great top sirloin from Whole Foods earlier in the week and I had marinated it overnight so that we could enjoy it for dinner. He has been really wanting red meat so I thought it was a good change. Normally I don't eat/cook very much red meat so this was a treat for us both. I typically like lean ground turkey, baked/grilled chicken, lean pork tenderloin or tofu. It was perfect-o!

Dinner:
Top Sirloin
Plain Potatoes
Cucumber, Tomato Salad
Corn

Then it was time for some mindless TV and some cleaning.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

LA Traffic Makes Me Crazy

I used to do 6 Miles 4 days a week and then a 10 miler on the weekend. That was easy and I loved it. Lately I have been struggling to get out of bed in the morning to get in my runs before work. I absolutely love morning workouts but I can't get out of bed for the life of me. The last few months have been a struggle and I don't know why. Any suggestions? I am looking for a 10K or 10 Miler to sign up for because hopefully that will help me get my butt in gear.

The hubby just added new and fun songs to my iPod so I am hoping that helps as well too. Tonight will be the first test. I am going to do 6 miles and then some weights. I really love the feeling after a great workout. I could do without all the sweat....but I will deal with it if I still get that feeling after a great run.

Spinning and Step classes are an obsession of mine but since I moved back to LA from Chicago, it's been hard to find enough time to get to the gym on time to attend the classes. Unfortunately, LA traffic is awful (that is an understatement) and so in order to get 10 miles you need to make sure you plan ahead and count on traffic. It is pretty annoying. There have been so many times that I have left the house to get to a class only to get there 15 minutes late and just end up running on the treadmill and doing weights. (all of which I can do at my gym in my building). I don't like entering classes after they have started...I am going to make a serious effort to time it right and get to a class this weekend. It definitely brightens up my day and I love changing up my workout routine.

Side Note:

I really want to try an Amazing Grass smoothie so hopefully I can pick some up this weekend. I gotta see what all the people out there in blogworld are raving about! Will be using my trusty research tool (google) and find where I cany buy it. I don't think I can wait to order it online.

Successful Evening

So last night was a success! I didn't have to cook because we had leftovers and I was able to stick to my goal. I only picked up 5 things at Target! I cannot believe it and it was very hard to refrain from trying a few products that other bloggers have mentioned. That will be for another day. I got just the necessities and then was off to 21 choices...or heaven. There were so many people there last night and even the express line was packed. The hubby and I got our "banana on a stick" yogurt and were off to eat the delicious treat. I should have just had that for dinner! just kidding. It's not the most nutritious dessert but I am all for enjoying life and that includes the things that you put in your mouth.

I was a little too tired to get out to the gym for a run, so I relaxed and enjoyed a few new magazines that came in the mail and caught up on emails. Overall it was a good night.

Breakfast:
~ Coffee Bean n/f sugar-free latte (yummy!)
~ WW toast with PB & B (Hands down my favorite breakfast)

I am working on getting a camera. The one on my phone is no good =(

It's almost lunch time so I feel another post coming on this afternoon! See you all then.....


Goal For Today:
~ Run 6 Miles and Weights


Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Fabulous Evening Planned

Tonight the hubby and I are heading to our favorite yogurt place.... 21 Choices (it's only in SoCal, but really should be everywhere!). This place is amazing! I love that they post online the 6 Choices Of the Day (these change everyday) for you to see before you go. They always have vanilla and chocolate and then 4 other flavors with various mix-ins....and it just so happens that they have a favorite of mine on the menu. Tonight I will be getting "banana on a stick"! Yum! It's non-fat yogurt mixed with organic bananas, almonds, and chocolate chips. To die for! If you don't want one of the pre-made choices you can always get whatever you want mixed in to the yogurt of your choice. This place is a favorite of many, so unfortunately the line is always out the door. The secret line is available if you are just getting one of the flavors of the day. You just go to the front and order your choice and then pay and you are off! Love it!

After our tummies are satisfied we are heading to Target to get a few things that we need and then more things that we don't need but I have to have! Gotta love Target!

Lunch:
~ Hummus on ww pita with cucumber, grape tomatoes and red onion (I really think I could eat this every day and not get sick of it.)
~ apple (courtesy of work!)

Afternoon Snack:
~ banana
~ almonds
~ green tea with honey (it's freezing in the office and I need something warm)

Today's Goal:
Only buy 5 things from Target - this is going to be very hard and does not include whatever the hubby buys. Just my items. I already have 2 things I HAVE to get...we'll see what the last 3 are tomorrow.

Yay for Hump Day!

Why do I get so excited for Wednesday? It really makes my day to know that today is hump day and soon it will be the weekend! Yay! But on to other topics.....

Most people my age do not like milk. Funny thing is, I love it. I cannot go a day without drinking a glass of non-fat milk. I have it with dinner and dessert at home all the time. It's strange though because I don't really ever drink it other than at home or in my coffee. I always have it in cereal but unlike most people, it's my beverage of choice for certain meals. I'm a strange one is what the hubby tells me.

Breakfast of Champions:
~ 1/4 c. puffins
~ 1/2 c. nonfat vanilla yogurt
~ scoop of blueberries (had to finish them off -- have to go to Costco for more!)

Fabulous Fun Stuff For Today:
~ Enter to win Holey Donuts on Soap & Chocolate
~ Vote for Danica's (Danica's Daily) dessert to be featured on MyRecipes.com - (Do it again!)
~ A great giveaway hosted by fruits.veggies.life for the 100th post. Enter here.

Brisk Run & Fast Evening

Last night I finally got home from work and was pretty hungry. I knew I wanted to go for a run so I had a banana with yummy peanut butter to hold me over for a little. I started to get a few things done off my TO DO list and then headed to the gym for a quick 4.5 mile run. Afterwards I felt really good, but during my run I was a little out of it. At mile 2 I was ready to quit but I knew I wanted to get at least 4 miles in for the day. Luckily I was able to push through it and complete the run. I went home to shower and start dinner for the hubby. He went to the gym on his way home from work so I knew he would be awhile. I sat down to my trusty DVR and got through a show or two while making dinner. Before I knew it, we had already had dinner and watched Big Brother. It was time for bed. Wow, the time sure does fly by in the evenings!

Tomorrow I am going to work on a daily goal. I would like to make one goal for each day and see if I can accomplish it. (It's going to be hard, but I am going to try it out).

Snack:
~ Banana with Peanut Butter

Dinner:
~ Stir Fry of leftover baked chicken with pasta, corn, carrots, broccoli and light garlic sauce

Workout:
~ 4.5 Miles
~ 50 situps
~ 30 pushups

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

New to the BlogWorld

I am definitely new to the blogging world...as you can tell from the lack of pictures and interesting topics! I have been reading blogs for a little while and was at first intimidated to try and write my own. I didn't think anyone would read it or find it the least bit interesting. I didn't want to live in fear so I jumped on the blogging bandwagon and have been loving every minute of it. I don't care if no one reads my posts or doesn't find what I say interesting. It is helping me and it's something I am finding enjoyable. Breaks up my day at the office and is a great place to track my daily routines and progress.

As I write this I am snacking on almonds and a plum. Fabulous...

Fabulous Food & Some Fun Stuff Too

Breakfast / Lunch today is not for champions. Today I was rushing out the door and was able to grab what I packed last night but forgot a few things so I have to improvise with my drawer of healthy snacks at work. I ate my breakfast at my desk as usual after having a banana on my long drive to work. I only work 9 miles from home but the LA traffic is killer!

Breakfast:
~ Banana
~ WW toast
~ Natural PB

Lunch:
~ Hummus
~ Grape Tomatoes
~ Sliced Cucumbers
~ WW Pita


Fun Stuff for Today:
~ Enter to win a canteen and compass at N Her Shoes
~ Vote for Danica's (Danica's Daily) dessert to be featured on MyRecipes.com
~ Enter another giveaway to win tofu at Run to the Finish
~ And yet another giveaway at Feed Me I'm Cranky

Din Din

Last nights dinner was a success for me. The hubby would have probably preferred less veggies and more meat, but he was happy it was healthy. I am one lucky girl because we are both into health and fitness and what we put in our bodies really matters to both of us.

We workout together pretty regularly and if he didn't work so much it would be every single workout. Lately I have been doing my own when I get home from work because he has to stay late and I like to make sure we eat dinner together each night (if possible).

Dinner was yummy.
~ baked chicken with light teriyaki sauce
~ sugar snap peas
~ huge salad (spinach, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro & a tad of TJs balsamic dressing)
~ ww noodles with cilantro and red pepper flakes, s&p w/ dash of olive oil
(I had some white rice for the hubby - he loves white rice!)

We were going to watch a movie since he didn't have to work after dinner but we just relaxed on the couch. While I was watching the Bachelorette, he was surfing the Internet. (pretty much our average Monday night!)

No workout for me because I was tired and sore. Not a good excuse but I got home late from work and just started dinner after doing a few loads of laundry. I have gotten into a pattern of using Monday as a rest day so we will have to see if that continues. Break over....Back to work now!

Monday, July 20, 2009

Morning!

As with most Mondays, I am sore today. I don't know why, but Sunday Soccer kicks my behind each and every time. I love it though! It's time to get back into work though and to start my day off I had a good breakfast at my desk.

Breakfast:

1/2 cup grapes
Granola
Yogurt
Blueberries
and of course........












Lunch:
WW pita
hummus
cucumber
Tomato

Snack:
rainer cherries
blueberries
almonds

dinner still to come........

Holy Mole Guacamole!

It's time for some Holy Mole Guacamole
A recipe for fresh and easy to make guacamole

Ingredients:
2 avocados
2 tbsp red onion (chopped)
1 tbsp cilantro (chopped)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
pinch of salt
splash of lemon juice
optional:
jalapenos (chopped)
green onion (chopped)

Mash avocados in a bowl with a fork (I like it a little chunky so I don't completely mash all of it.) Add in rest of ingredients and stir. Taste and add more salt if needed. If you like it spicy, add a couple chopped jalapenos.

Weekend Roundup

Friday was a very nice evening at home with the hubby. I made Turkey & fresh Guacamole wraps on WW pita with tomatoes and red onion. I like to put them on the panini grill for a few minutes just to get them nice and toasty. I had a side salad with spinach, grape tomatoes and red onion while the hubby had some TJ's Plantain chips (he swears they taste just like potato chips). We relaxed and watched Definitely, Maybe and then called it a night.

Saturday I went for a great 6 mile run and then did a short strength training session. It was so hot, but afterwards I felt so good. I love that feeling. The hubby was going to the beach with the boys, so I made my way to my sister's house to see my lovely new niece. She had company for the afternoon so I stopped by the 'rents place first and ended up watching cricket with my dad. My dad was a professional cricket player and just loves the sport. It was fun seeing him so into the match and then explaining everything to me as it happened. I loved hearing about him playing against some of the commentators. After a little while I ventured over to my sister's house (she lives down the street from my parents.....lucky!!). I got to spend time with the family and it was so nice to see my niece change even after a few days. Love her! After leaving their house, I met up with the hubby and his friends for a night of gambling...well, they gambled and I stood in the background cheering. It was a long day and night! We didn't get home until 4AM.

I finally got up on Sunday and did things around the house before venturing back to my parent's house again. I got to play with my other niece and it was a blast. We played card games and watched a movie before I had to leave for my soccer game. I knew it was going to be a hot one so I was hydrating all day. Turns out we played a really tough team with only 10 players. Of course the other team had all 11 on the field and then plenty of subs. We hung in there the whole time though and managed to keep it at 0-0. While I would have loved a win, it was nice to tie them considering all the obstacles we faced. I was so tired and hot after that game. Went home and the hubby and I grilled some steaks with a big salad for me and some potatoes on the side. YUM!

I am working on getting into the habit of taking pics, so for now, you will just have to use your imagination!

Happy Monday, everyone!

Saturday Workout:
~ 6 Mile Run
~ Lunges
~ Situps
~ Strength Training w/ weights

Sunday Workout:
~ Soccer game

Friday, July 17, 2009

Fabulous Foods

Fabulous Foods I Can't Live Without:
  • Peanut Butter (I'm obsessed)
  • Hummus
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Bananas
  • Oroweat Winter Wheat Bread
  • Yogurt
  • Dark Chocolate
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Tomatoes
  • Cumumbers

I am getting hungry just writing this out!

Finally Friday

It is finally Friday. This week has been action packed. My sister gave birth to a lovely little girl on Wednesday so that was super exciting to be apart of. I am counting down the hours until I can go and see them again. I love being an aunt. I already have one adorable niece and am so lucky to now have another one!

This morning I didn't go for a run so I am hoping that the hubby will want to go to the gym or go for a late run after work. He works long hours and might not be up for it so we will have to see what time he gets off and how he is feeling. Usually Friday nights we have leftovers if we are not meeting friends for dinner. Tonight we don't have plans (yet!) so it looks like it might be a leftovers night.

Breakfast was packed and eaten at my desk when I got to work. I had an apple (from work), non-fat, no sugar added Coffee Bean Latte and some raw almonds.



I pack my lunch everyday and today I brought 2 Trader Joe's (TJ) whole wheat mini pitas, 1 tbsp. Peanut Butter (PB), an orange, 1/2 c. rainer cherries and of course my 34 oz Coffee Bean BPA Free water bottle (I don't leave home without it....ever!)



Time for a snackie so I had black beans, tomatoes, onions and salad greens. (sorry no pic).


Well, see what the weekend has in store for me! Happy Friday!

A Whole New World

I am definitely new to the blogging world so go easy on me please. I have been reading blogs on food, nutrition and exercise for awhile, and decided it was time to start my own. A little bit about me.....I am a SoCal girl that loves exercising and food. I love that feeling after a really good run or great class at the gym. It's definitely something I look forward to and try to do at least 4 times a week. I do not exercise to eat what I want. It just comes with the territory. I do like to eat well and try to maintain a balanced diet. I don't diet, but I do watch what I eat. I won't deprive myself of the things that I love. I have been active all my life. I played soccer from the age of 6 until today (still play every Sunday on a women's team) and in high school played volleyball, soccer and track. College soccer was short lived due to a terrible knee injury. That time off allowed me to rehab and get back in shape so that I can run and exercise like the madwoman I am today. I spent a few years in Chicago (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the city) and then moved back to LA, got married and have been living a wonderful life. My weekday routine is pretty simple: morning workouts (sometimes), go to work, go to the gym (if I didn't run in the morning), make dinner and lounge around with my hubby. Weekends anything is game. Saturday mornings I usually go for a run with the hubby and Sunday evenings are reserved for soccer games. In between that, anything and everything happens.


I hope you enjoy reading about my activities, meals and lifestyle.