I kinda had the most perfect run ever this morning! Elya and I needed to get a longer kid free run in to be ready for our 15K. To make that happen we agreed to meet at her place at 6 am and run an 8 mile loop from her house.
I will admit when my alarm went off at 4:30 this morning I was a bit irritated wondering why we thought this was a good idea. I was even more irritated that my tummy was not working with me.
But, I don't bail on runs with friends unless it is really, really, really serious. Elya and I were both a bit not thrilled with how crisp the air was. But I tell you, after making it to Chambers bay (1.76 miles from her house), and taking a quick pit stop to work out some issues the rest of the run was AMAZING!
We started out under the stars, watching the moon set over the sound, and finished with a beautiful sunrise and perfect temp after the first 2 miles. I felt amazing! Best part is we hit 8 and I knew I had more in my legs. I could have kept going no problem. Totally feel ready for Pt. D 15 K trail run in two weeks! So excited to run some new trails!
I tried the Vanilla Bean GU, first time using GU, while the texture is strange the flavor was fine and I felt like my energy level was pretty perfect the entire run. Will be getting more of that for the 15K.
Amazing run, home before 8 am, dinner in the crock pot by 9:30 am, football on the TV all day....yeah it was a pretty perfect day!
BTW - Can you believe the crazy good weather we are having?! I am LOVING it!!! Doing my best to make the most of it while it lasts!!!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Another Adoption?!
Well Daddy and Sky were "window shopping" at Costco and they found Cabbage Patch Kid Babies...and of course Sky grabbed this one and was not letting go. So, we jumped the gun a bit, but she sure loves her Bebe. I picked it up to move it and she lost it. You should have heard the worry in her voice when she was walking around looking for Bebe, saying Bebe over and over with a quaver in her voice. It was actually kinda sad. The birth cert is so cute with foot and thumb prints, and Sky is listed as the Mommy on the adoption certificate. So cute!
After Costco I hit up Safeway for BOGO meat and ended up with $73 of free meat! We now have a freezer FULL of pork chops, roast meat, ground hamburger, chicken leg quarters, and drum sticks.
I wanted to sneak in a short, easy, flat run today because the weather was amazing, but I was literally gone from 10 am until 4 pm running errands and grocery shopping. But it paid off I got some great deals on food and cloths for Sky, and got everything done that I needed to!
So even though I didn't get a run in, I was on my feet all day, and I have a 8 mile run with Elya tomorrow morning at 6am. Kinda dreading getting up at 4 ish, yes it takes me exactly 2 hours to be ready to run...mostly because I have to give my stomach time to settle after eating breakfast. But, it will be nice to be home early, chillen the rest of the day watching football!
One last Sky pic...
Girl LOVES her books!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful that Mark knows how to do things. No, not those kind of things. Things like replacing flooring, welding, fixing things around the house, building things.
I think he probably already has like 10 tree house floor plans for Sky. :)
There is absolutely nothing wrong with guys who don't do those things BTW. I just find it kinda cool that I say this or that needs to be fixed and viola it's fixed.
When we have to flee to the family property down south because of the zombie apocalypse I like knowing Mark can build us a house to live in. :)
I think he probably already has like 10 tree house floor plans for Sky. :)
There is absolutely nothing wrong with guys who don't do those things BTW. I just find it kinda cool that I say this or that needs to be fixed and viola it's fixed.
When we have to flee to the family property down south because of the zombie apocalypse I like knowing Mark can build us a house to live in. :)
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Rest Day
Today my goal was to chill with Sky, get some learning supplies to start ABC work and short, very short amounts of "school" time at her new table*, a few housekeeping tasks and reading time for me while she spent time with Grammy and Grandpy this afternoon.
*After all she is only 16 months...I'm just laying ground work here for the future. I have been giving her and myself until she is 2 to start structured learning (it's still not going to be all that strict just more focused even if it's only in short bursts of time). For now it's story time at the library, singing songs, reading books she enjoys, and using her toys and play time to naturally learn new skills. I want to gradually get her used to sitting at her table so that when the time comes for more structured learning time it's not a shock to her.
All was accomplished, and my legs thanked me for the break. Tomorrow will be P90X Stretching, so basically another easy on my legs day, but still some activity.
*After all she is only 16 months...I'm just laying ground work here for the future. I have been giving her and myself until she is 2 to start structured learning (it's still not going to be all that strict just more focused even if it's only in short bursts of time). For now it's story time at the library, singing songs, reading books she enjoys, and using her toys and play time to naturally learn new skills. I want to gradually get her used to sitting at her table so that when the time comes for more structured learning time it's not a shock to her.
All was accomplished, and my legs thanked me for the break. Tomorrow will be P90X Stretching, so basically another easy on my legs day, but still some activity.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Recovery Run
Migraine recovery run for me and 1/2 recovery run for Elya. We hit 5 Mile Drive and took it easy. I was a little worried because I still had the left over pain from the migraine and exercise will either make it better or make it much, much worse.
Thankfully today's run made it better. Still have a little niggle of pain, but so much better. We took it easy on Elya's legs and walked when needed, and took turns pushing her two kiddos. I totally have a new found respect for her...her kiddos are so much harder to push than Sky is! She is Super Woman!!
Between trading off on the kiddos and walking as needed we made it through the entire loop and not in bad time either.
The new shoes felt great as did the new inserts I'm testing out. I already knew the shoes would be fine, they are the same ones I already have. I was more worried about the inserts, as they are a totally different brand. But so far they seem to be working.
I have a 6 am 8 miler planned Sunday morning, so that will be a better test of the inserts.
Backtracking a few days...I got Sky a used Sky size table and chairs that she LOVES!
Look at that happy little face! It's a pretty cool table with a white board section and a chalk board section as well. Best part is the clips to hole her paper for drawing and coloring. Now...we have to work on not eating the crayons!
Thankfully today's run made it better. Still have a little niggle of pain, but so much better. We took it easy on Elya's legs and walked when needed, and took turns pushing her two kiddos. I totally have a new found respect for her...her kiddos are so much harder to push than Sky is! She is Super Woman!!
Between trading off on the kiddos and walking as needed we made it through the entire loop and not in bad time either.
The new shoes felt great as did the new inserts I'm testing out. I already knew the shoes would be fine, they are the same ones I already have. I was more worried about the inserts, as they are a totally different brand. But so far they seem to be working.
I have a 6 am 8 miler planned Sunday morning, so that will be a better test of the inserts.
Backtracking a few days...I got Sky a used Sky size table and chairs that she LOVES!
Football Contraversy
As a Steelers fan I realize that any opinion I have regarding the Hawks is automatically null and void, so I won't even offer my opinion as to if they actually won the game or NOT. (I will give them credit for an impressive display of defense the first 1/2 though.)
This moment has been building since the very first pre-season game. There have been missed calls, calls made that never happened, players called for penalties that were not even in the game at the time, extra challenges given to coaches, penalty yards marked off from the wrong spot and on and on.
I don't blame the refs though. I would actually like to thank the replacement refs for being willing to cross union lines (not an easy choice to make) and knowingly take on one of the most hated jobs in sports (that of a ref/official) while learning a whole new rule book and procedures. I believe they are doing the best they can given the circumstances, and if they had not been willing to fill in then we may not even be watching football right now.
I'm afraid it is going to get worse before it gets better. It's pretty obvious that the players have very little respect for the replacement refs, and the fact that coaches are being fined for mistreating the refs shows they have zero respect for them. It's a perfect storm of ego and frustration building and I'm afraid it's going to get really ugly.
The bigger issue is the NFL, or whoever it is that is responsible for deciding to bring in replacement refs and not give the "real" refs what they are asking for, thinks it's ok to give the fans a sub-par product. I mean no disrespect to the replacement refs in saying that. Again I think they are doing the best they can given the situation. Fans pay a lot of money to go to games and purchase jerseys etc. We should not be subjected to consistently controversial miss-handled games.
I may be a Steelers fan, but I'm a football fan first. I love the game of football and will watch HS, College, NFL it doesn't matter...I love the game. I feel like the powers that be have made a joke out of it. The NFL refs are not asking for much...they want to be treated like "real" employees and have benefits and retirement and be paid for the off-field time they are expected to put in. Let's give them what they deserve, get them up to speed and back out on the field, and stop making a mockery of the game.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Migraines Are Dumb!
My day started out great! First, I was excited at how great my legs felt after running close to 8 miles. I remember when I started training for the 1/2 each new distance killed me the next day, the first time I hit 6 miles my legs hated me, and now I can do 7 almost 8 and still feel great the next day! Second, I had these new shoes to break in on my walk with Jodi and the weather was perfect...not too cold not too hot for a nice easy walk.
The shoes arrived Saturday and I so badly wanted to wear them for the race Sunday, but the #1 rule is don't wear anything race day that you haven't tested out on a training run. And, even though I was only running support and not really racing I stuck to what I know works so I could focus on Elya and helping her out rather than risking dealing with new shoe issues.
Also, I'm testing out different inserts than what I have in my other shoes. Nothing wrong with the other ones, the ones I'm testing are a much more cost effective option if they work out. I didn't want to run too far on untried inserts.
I figured a walk in them today would be a good first wear. 5 Mile Drive tomorrow will be a better test.
The girls ready for our walk. We did not dress them in the same jacket on purpose. It just happened. No matter what I did I couldn't get Reagan to smile. She was not amused by me in the least.
My day went downhill after the walk though. On the way home from Jodi's I developed a migraine. I haven't had one in a really long time, and it seems the longer I go between them the worse they are when I do get one. I almost had to pull over because my eyes were bothering me so much. Thankfully Mark was able to leave work early and take care of Sky so I could go to bed.
Feeling better now, still having flashes of pain, but nothing like how I felt earlier today. I'm hopeful that I wake up feeling like a new person in the morning...I really want to get my 5 Mile run in with the Stroller Fit ladies!
Also, I'm testing out different inserts than what I have in my other shoes. Nothing wrong with the other ones, the ones I'm testing are a much more cost effective option if they work out. I didn't want to run too far on untried inserts.
I figured a walk in them today would be a good first wear. 5 Mile Drive tomorrow will be a better test.
My day went downhill after the walk though. On the way home from Jodi's I developed a migraine. I haven't had one in a really long time, and it seems the longer I go between them the worse they are when I do get one. I almost had to pull over because my eyes were bothering me so much. Thankfully Mark was able to leave work early and take care of Sky so I could go to bed.
Feeling better now, still having flashes of pain, but nothing like how I felt earlier today. I'm hopeful that I wake up feeling like a new person in the morning...I really want to get my 5 Mile run in with the Stroller Fit ladies!
Sunday, September 23, 2012
16 Months Old Yesterday
I can't believe Sky is 16 months old already. She is so smart and funny and brave, and full of laughter, exploring, friendliness, and yes sass.
She makes me laugh every day and constantly amazes me with how fast she learns things, good and bad. (I may have to ban myself from watching football with her! Why do they pick up the bad words so fast?)
I'm still amazed that we were given such a precious gift. Our lives are so full of love and laughter and little girl fun. I'm so thankful for my life and my amazing little family of 3. Life is good!
She makes me laugh every day and constantly amazes me with how fast she learns things, good and bad. (I may have to ban myself from watching football with her! Why do they pick up the bad words so fast?)
I'm still amazed that we were given such a precious gift. Our lives are so full of love and laughter and little girl fun. I'm so thankful for my life and my amazing little family of 3. Life is good!
Twisting big girl slide all by herself.
Umm...with the static hair this almost makes her look scary.
She walked up tot he slide and instead of sitting down dove head-first! Was a little crooked at the bottom.
This is so much fun!
Run Support
This is not about what you think it is! Hahaha!!
Elya had her 1/2 today in Gig Harbor. She was filling in for a friend who was too sick to run and had not had an opportunity to train. So, some of her running friends got together and offered support!
Elya is coming off a broken ankle and this would be her longest run since the broken ankle. Shout out to her friend Michelle who started the race with her and ran all the way to the last 1/2 mile with her! Did I mention Michelle was also unable to train?!
I met them at the 6.5 aid station with the requested fresh orange slices peeled and separated for them, and ran the rest of the way to the last 1/2 ish mile. Michelle and I walked in the last 1/2 mile together and skipped the finish shoot/line. I didn't feel right crossing the finish line when A) I hadn't paid to be on the course and B) I didn't start the race from the beginning.
I also skirted around the aid stations to stay out of the way of runners who had paid to be there and didn't take any support from the stations. I ran with what I needed and was self-contained.
I only felt a little bad about running when not having paid...Elya wanted the support and she is my running buddy. She helped me get through my longest training runs for my 1/2. I wanted to help her and if her ankle did give her issues I wanted her to have peeps with her to either walk it out, or DNF and get off the course.
It ended up being 7.7 miles in 1:13:30...those girls rocked it. They had a whole 1/2 on their legs, I only had 1/2 of a 1/2 on my legs, so it felt super easy for me, which in turn made it really easy to hand out orange slices along the way, and carry conversation to distract from the painful stretches. It was actually the most care-free run I have done...it wasn't my race, I didn't have any pace goals or expectations. I was just there to run and offer encouragement and I loved it!
Having said that, I fell in love with the course, the support the volunteers offered and the local folks coming out to show their support. There were literally people cheering and yelling the entire way! And, more importantly it's a cause I believe in, so the Gig Harbor Run For Soldiers (supports suicide prevention for soldiers with PTSD) has now been added to my race schedule for next year.
Two 1/2's in one year...I know I'm out of control! I already decided I won't be doing a race a month again, it's a lot to keep up with. But, I can already see how next year is going to play out...4 to 6 races and perhaps all of them being 1/2's! It's a distance I have fallen in love with and I have some PR'ing to do!
Thank you to Mark and Sky who drove me to the mile 6 aid station and then went and waited at the finish line! I appreciate the support as does Elya!
Elya had her 1/2 today in Gig Harbor. She was filling in for a friend who was too sick to run and had not had an opportunity to train. So, some of her running friends got together and offered support!
Elya is coming off a broken ankle and this would be her longest run since the broken ankle. Shout out to her friend Michelle who started the race with her and ran all the way to the last 1/2 mile with her! Did I mention Michelle was also unable to train?!
I met them at the 6.5 aid station with the requested fresh orange slices peeled and separated for them, and ran the rest of the way to the last 1/2 ish mile. Michelle and I walked in the last 1/2 mile together and skipped the finish shoot/line. I didn't feel right crossing the finish line when A) I hadn't paid to be on the course and B) I didn't start the race from the beginning.
I also skirted around the aid stations to stay out of the way of runners who had paid to be there and didn't take any support from the stations. I ran with what I needed and was self-contained.
I only felt a little bad about running when not having paid...Elya wanted the support and she is my running buddy. She helped me get through my longest training runs for my 1/2. I wanted to help her and if her ankle did give her issues I wanted her to have peeps with her to either walk it out, or DNF and get off the course.
It ended up being 7.7 miles in 1:13:30...those girls rocked it. They had a whole 1/2 on their legs, I only had 1/2 of a 1/2 on my legs, so it felt super easy for me, which in turn made it really easy to hand out orange slices along the way, and carry conversation to distract from the painful stretches. It was actually the most care-free run I have done...it wasn't my race, I didn't have any pace goals or expectations. I was just there to run and offer encouragement and I loved it!
Having said that, I fell in love with the course, the support the volunteers offered and the local folks coming out to show their support. There were literally people cheering and yelling the entire way! And, more importantly it's a cause I believe in, so the Gig Harbor Run For Soldiers (supports suicide prevention for soldiers with PTSD) has now been added to my race schedule for next year.
Two 1/2's in one year...I know I'm out of control! I already decided I won't be doing a race a month again, it's a lot to keep up with. But, I can already see how next year is going to play out...4 to 6 races and perhaps all of them being 1/2's! It's a distance I have fallen in love with and I have some PR'ing to do!
Thank you to Mark and Sky who drove me to the mile 6 aid station and then went and waited at the finish line! I appreciate the support as does Elya!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Did You Know...
...that this
is about $4.50 less expensive than this (at Walmart)...
and after using both I can't tell a difference!
Given how much I'm running, and I put this stuff on before every run no matter how long or short, that is a huge savings! Contrary to popular belief 3 miles is enough to get blisters!!!
Oh, and lesson learned...hubby and wife should not share the same stick! And, you should probably have one for your feet and one for other areas. Mark's name has been printed on his in clear easy to read print, so that I won't steal it and use it without him knowing and share my girl funkiness with him. :)
Given how much I'm running, and I put this stuff on before every run no matter how long or short, that is a huge savings! Contrary to popular belief 3 miles is enough to get blisters!!!
Oh, and lesson learned...hubby and wife should not share the same stick! And, you should probably have one for your feet and one for other areas. Mark's name has been printed on his in clear easy to read print, so that I won't steal it and use it without him knowing and share my girl funkiness with him. :)
Friday, September 21, 2012
Shout Out
Ummm yes that is a Duathlon you see there. My sister is doing her very first Duathlon this weekend! I'm so very proud of her!!! Go Beth Go!!!
Ch, ch, ch, Changes...
Seems like change is in the air! Yesterday was summer, warm and sunny...today is totally fall! I love the sun, but I love running in fall weather way better than summer weather, so I'm not complaining. Plus it's football season, so I'm happy!
It seems Sky is on the change train as well. Naps are sort of all over the place. Some days not eating much, and others eating non stop all day long. I am pretty certain she is getting ready to grow a lot. She had 3 servings at breakfast, ate all her snack while on our run, and then wanted lunch at 11 and ate two servings. Has yet to take her 10 am nap...it's 12:13.
The only reason I care about the nap is I time my runs to end so we can come home, take a nap and I get to shower. But here I am still in my running cloths smelling like a goat while she is living it up having a dance party in the living room.
A positive change...letting me know she is done with meal time without tossing her food on the floor. She still has moments, but is doing so much better. That was driving me crazy!
Big change for me...I am not going back to the Y as planned. I suspended my membership for the summer to not only help save money and gas during the crazy gas price season, but so I could focus on running more. I have loved being able to run more and strength train enough to maintain my activity level.
Plus, my unemployment ends in Dec. and we have to make some changes if I'm going to stay home with Sky, which is what we both want. So, since I'm highly motivated to run and P90X it at home I'm totally fine giving up my Y membership. I actually really love just taking off running from my front door rather than load Sky and the stroller into the car and drive across town to the Y. It's nice that Ft. St. Park is within 8 to 9 running minutes from our house and offers miles and miles of running for me and play for Sky.
Had a nice easy pre-race run with Elya this morning. I will be catching her at mile 6 of her 1/2 this weekend and running her in the rest of the way. She is filling in for someone else and has not been able to train for this, so thought I would pace her to help out.
Gave this new Athleta top a test run today and love it! I wanted to save my money for the Seattle store opening the end of the year, but I couldn't wait (I only have a few long sleeve running tops and with the increased running I'm doing and in turn laundry knew I would need this long before the new store opens), plus I needed a new running bra (I detest spending $$ on bras!) So ordered this top and got fitted for a running bra...will not be posting pics of that though. :)
It seems Sky is on the change train as well. Naps are sort of all over the place. Some days not eating much, and others eating non stop all day long. I am pretty certain she is getting ready to grow a lot. She had 3 servings at breakfast, ate all her snack while on our run, and then wanted lunch at 11 and ate two servings. Has yet to take her 10 am nap...it's 12:13.
The only reason I care about the nap is I time my runs to end so we can come home, take a nap and I get to shower. But here I am still in my running cloths smelling like a goat while she is living it up having a dance party in the living room.
A positive change...letting me know she is done with meal time without tossing her food on the floor. She still has moments, but is doing so much better. That was driving me crazy!
Big change for me...I am not going back to the Y as planned. I suspended my membership for the summer to not only help save money and gas during the crazy gas price season, but so I could focus on running more. I have loved being able to run more and strength train enough to maintain my activity level.
Plus, my unemployment ends in Dec. and we have to make some changes if I'm going to stay home with Sky, which is what we both want. So, since I'm highly motivated to run and P90X it at home I'm totally fine giving up my Y membership. I actually really love just taking off running from my front door rather than load Sky and the stroller into the car and drive across town to the Y. It's nice that Ft. St. Park is within 8 to 9 running minutes from our house and offers miles and miles of running for me and play for Sky.
Had a nice easy pre-race run with Elya this morning. I will be catching her at mile 6 of her 1/2 this weekend and running her in the rest of the way. She is filling in for someone else and has not been able to train for this, so thought I would pace her to help out.
Gave this new Athleta top a test run today and love it! I wanted to save my money for the Seattle store opening the end of the year, but I couldn't wait (I only have a few long sleeve running tops and with the increased running I'm doing and in turn laundry knew I would need this long before the new store opens), plus I needed a new running bra (I detest spending $$ on bras!) So ordered this top and got fitted for a running bra...will not be posting pics of that though. :)
Verdict...It stays in place...I don't like it when tops ride up while running and
next thing you know your belly button is showing. It felt good no rubbing in bad places and looks cute. Thank you again Dad
for supporting my running!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Just Another Day In The Park
Had to share...I hope life can be like this for her for a very long time!
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for the Ellen show. Most days Sky is a dream, little miss easy as pie to be with all day. But, some days she is a little devil, I still love her, but some days she likes to test the limits to the max.
On those days when nothing is working, and I just need her to settle down and chill for a bit the Ellen show does the trick.
As soon as she hears the music she settles in on the couch next to me and watches. She gets up and dances when Ellen dances, and when she has Sophia Grace and Rosie on Sky is totally oblivious to everything else.
I don't use the TV often to parent, but when I need it I'm super thankful to have Ellen!
No cartoons for Sky...give her some Ellen once in a while and she is happy!
It doesn't hurt that her message is "Be Kind To One Another" which is one of my TOP things to teach Sky. I want her to be a kind caring person.
Thank you Ellen!
On those days when nothing is working, and I just need her to settle down and chill for a bit the Ellen show does the trick.
As soon as she hears the music she settles in on the couch next to me and watches. She gets up and dances when Ellen dances, and when she has Sophia Grace and Rosie on Sky is totally oblivious to everything else.
I don't use the TV often to parent, but when I need it I'm super thankful to have Ellen!
No cartoons for Sky...give her some Ellen once in a while and she is happy!
It doesn't hurt that her message is "Be Kind To One Another" which is one of my TOP things to teach Sky. I want her to be a kind caring person.
Thank you Ellen!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Park Time
Yesterday was a rest day. After the Chambers Bay hills Monday night, my legs needed a rest. So Sky and I chilled at home until after nap time, then headed to the park so Sky could walk it out.
Gotta stop and smell the flowers.
I climb all by myself.
Just a little break.
This morning got 4.01 miles in, including a big, big, big hill that didn't slow me down to a walk for once. I ran it, slowly, but I did it. I am still amazed that Sky is so content in the stroller. I held off on giving her snacks until the last mile. Just want to make sure she is able to sit without being bribed. It's an important skill.
I love Wednesday's...she spends a few hours with Grammy and Grandpy and I get a few hours to myself. After I run a quick errand for Mark I'm chilling in a coffee shop with my book!
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Recipe of the Week
I found a Wok cookbook, while cleaning out cabinets, that I have had for who knows how long. Since I have a wok I figured I should make use of it! My goal, a wok recipe a week until I have cooked all of the recipes that I think we would enjoy.
Attempt #1 = total success!!!
T = Tablespoon
t = teaspoon
Vietnamese Shaking Beef
Serves 4
5 garlic cloves chopped
1 T fish sauce
1 t brown sugar or palm sugar (I used brown sugar)
2 T peanut oil
1 lb boneless sirloin cut into 1 inch cubes
1 onion, halved and finely sliced
1 T rice vinegar
1 t sesame oil
2-6 green chilies, sliced crosswise (optional) - (I used 4, and cooked them with the meat but didn't serve them to be eaten)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Mix 4 of the garlic cloves, the fish sauce, sugar, a pinch of salt, and half the oil in a bowl, add the beef, and toss until well coated. Cover and set aside to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Put the onion on a bowl, cover with vinegar, and let stand for 10 minutes. Add the sesame oil, salt, and pepper and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a wok, add the remaining garlic, stir-fry for 1 minute, then add the beef and chilies, if using. Stir-fry or toss quickly over a high heat until the meat is brown and crisp on the outside and rare in the middle.
Transfer the onion and dressing to a serving plate and serve the beef on top or beside. (I served it on top of the onion).
Courtesy of Elsa Petersen-Schepelarn
I served this with rice and an Asian egg plant dish...really you could serve it with a fresh salad or other fresh vegetable to keep it light and not compete with the flavor of the meat.
Warning = if your wok is as hot as it should be you may get popped by oil and burned. I know why chefs wear long sleeves! I have 5 burns on my arm, one of them open raw skin that is killing me. :(
Attempt #1 = total success!!!
T = Tablespoon
t = teaspoon
Vietnamese Shaking Beef
Serves 4
5 garlic cloves chopped
1 T fish sauce
1 t brown sugar or palm sugar (I used brown sugar)
2 T peanut oil
1 lb boneless sirloin cut into 1 inch cubes
1 onion, halved and finely sliced
1 T rice vinegar
1 t sesame oil
2-6 green chilies, sliced crosswise (optional) - (I used 4, and cooked them with the meat but didn't serve them to be eaten)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Mix 4 of the garlic cloves, the fish sauce, sugar, a pinch of salt, and half the oil in a bowl, add the beef, and toss until well coated. Cover and set aside to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Put the onion on a bowl, cover with vinegar, and let stand for 10 minutes. Add the sesame oil, salt, and pepper and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a wok, add the remaining garlic, stir-fry for 1 minute, then add the beef and chilies, if using. Stir-fry or toss quickly over a high heat until the meat is brown and crisp on the outside and rare in the middle.
Transfer the onion and dressing to a serving plate and serve the beef on top or beside. (I served it on top of the onion).
Courtesy of Elsa Petersen-Schepelarn
I served this with rice and an Asian egg plant dish...really you could serve it with a fresh salad or other fresh vegetable to keep it light and not compete with the flavor of the meat.
Warning = if your wok is as hot as it should be you may get popped by oil and burned. I know why chefs wear long sleeves! I have 5 burns on my arm, one of them open raw skin that is killing me. :(
Monday, September 17, 2012
New Shoes
These beauties will be on my feet the end of the week! Same shoes I have currently, just different colors.
Thank you so much Dad. It will be really nice to have two pairs to rotate! I had fun ordering them today.
Chamber's Bay Loop
Michelle and I ran the whole loop, crazy hills and all. 3 miles in 32 minutes. Not bad at all considering how bug the hills are and how much they slow me down.
Mark biked it with Sky in the cart. She is so darn cute in her bike helmet it kills me every time I see her in it.
I will admit I avoid running the whole loop at all cost. Not sure why I got a crazy hair and suggested it today, but we did it, it's done, and I'm enjoying my beer and some MNF!
Keeping a close eye on one of my FF match-ups...this game determines who wins and it's gonna be close!
Mark biked it with Sky in the cart. She is so darn cute in her bike helmet it kills me every time I see her in it.
I will admit I avoid running the whole loop at all cost. Not sure why I got a crazy hair and suggested it today, but we did it, it's done, and I'm enjoying my beer and some MNF!
Keeping a close eye on one of my FF match-ups...this game determines who wins and it's gonna be close!
Sunday, September 16, 2012
3,420...
That was the elevation climb of the 1/2 my sister did yesterday! She started out running with her hubby, he was sick though and had to stop at mile 2, she decided to go it alone.
I am so proud of her!!! It's hard to run alone, it's even harder to do it while climbing 3,420 feet, knowing that you have to go back down 3,420 feet.
I'm proud of you sis!!!
I am so proud of her!!! It's hard to run alone, it's even harder to do it while climbing 3,420 feet, knowing that you have to go back down 3,420 feet.
I'm proud of you sis!!!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Running in Circles
That's how my day started. With Dad pushing Sky around the lake and me running, in the middle of the 15th annual Ft. St. Invitational mind you...lot's of "real" runners running around, 2.69 miles with a 9:11 average pace. My first mile was 9:02. I know that's not fast for some, but it is really fast for me for a first mile. I'm not a fast starter. I like to start slow like 10:30 or 11 ish and then speed up at the end.
One thing 1/2 training taught me...it all gets better after mile 4 and I am able to finish much stronger and faster than I start. My comfortable pace is 9:22, I feel like I can do that forever almost, I just can't do that the first 4 ish miles.
So to have a first mile at 9:02 and never go slower than 9:20 even for just 2.69 is pretty great for me.
After that it was home to spend the day watching college football and playing with Sky while Mark toiled away working on the bathroom.
Ended the evening with dinner on the deck while watching the USC vs Stanford game. I have started making a habit of watching whatever game Jodi's Dad is reffing (when I know what game he is reffing), it's just way more fun when I "know" one of the refs. I guess I actually do know him because I have met him several times. It helps me decide which of the many games to watch. And, I think he does a great job!
Inquiring minds want to know though Jodi...does your Dad prefer easy run of the mill games with an off-sides call or two, or does he find games like tonight with all the turnovers challenging and exciting?
Shout out to my sister and her hubby who had a 1/2 trail run today with some CRAZY elevation.
Shout out to all those running the You Go Girl event tomorrow! I'm thinking of you and hope it goes well!
One thing 1/2 training taught me...it all gets better after mile 4 and I am able to finish much stronger and faster than I start. My comfortable pace is 9:22, I feel like I can do that forever almost, I just can't do that the first 4 ish miles.
So to have a first mile at 9:02 and never go slower than 9:20 even for just 2.69 is pretty great for me.
After that it was home to spend the day watching college football and playing with Sky while Mark toiled away working on the bathroom.
Ended the evening with dinner on the deck while watching the USC vs Stanford game. I have started making a habit of watching whatever game Jodi's Dad is reffing (when I know what game he is reffing), it's just way more fun when I "know" one of the refs. I guess I actually do know him because I have met him several times. It helps me decide which of the many games to watch. And, I think he does a great job!
Inquiring minds want to know though Jodi...does your Dad prefer easy run of the mill games with an off-sides call or two, or does he find games like tonight with all the turnovers challenging and exciting?
Shout out to my sister and her hubby who had a 1/2 trail run today with some CRAZY elevation.
Shout out to all those running the You Go Girl event tomorrow! I'm thinking of you and hope it goes well!
Friday, September 14, 2012
The Joy of Cooking
The newest addition to my cook book library! I read it for over an hour the other night and can't wait to cook some meals from it.
Talk about a great tool! It is more like an encyclopedia than a cook book. There are diagrams on place settings for formal, casual, holiday dinning, a whole section on how to field dress wild game you kill, diagrams on how to truss a chicken, menus for camping/holiday's/cocktail party and on and on.
Did you know that when the first edition of Joy was published veal was less expensive than chicken?! Crazy.
It has been sitting out on the counter since I got it, and every time I walk by I feel the need to tough it and open to a random page and start reading.
I'm a kitchen geek I know...can't help it.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Thankful Thursday
I'm thankful Sky is at an age that she walks up and give hugs, kisses and cuddle all on her own. It makes me feel so loved and important in her little world.
When she was little I would just walk up and pick her up and she really didn't have much choice in it. But now, it's her choice. She is hugging and kissing and cuddling because it's what she really wants and that is pretty awesome!
Not that I don't still pick her up at random, but it's better when she initiates it!
Also, thankful for the summer weather we are having! Cool mornings and evening, but sunny warm days. I LOVE it!
When she was little I would just walk up and pick her up and she really didn't have much choice in it. But now, it's her choice. She is hugging and kissing and cuddling because it's what she really wants and that is pretty awesome!
Not that I don't still pick her up at random, but it's better when she initiates it!
Also, thankful for the summer weather we are having! Cool mornings and evening, but sunny warm days. I LOVE it!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Race-less In Lakewood
My race this weekend was in Wenatchee and since there is a raging wild fire, and air quality warnings I'm no longer running a race in Wenatchee.
The race director has not officially cancelled the race, but Dad and I have officially decided that regardless of an official cancel or not, it's not worth the risk. The current warning says that kids (Sky) and those with respiratory issues/sensitivities (Dad) should stay inside, all others should wear breathing masks while outside.
Even if the fire is contained or put out tomorrow or Friday there is still going to be smoke in the air and I really don't feel like exposing Sky to it, or breathing it in myself while pushing for a PR.
So, the race is off, but I will be showing support to my Stroller Fit Mommie friends while they run a 1/2 in Tacoma this weekend.
And, Dad will still get Sky time as he will drive over here instead.
So it all works out. Plus, I now get to run tomorrow and Friday, and Saturday if I want...I was not liking taking rest days leading up to the race!
The race director has not officially cancelled the race, but Dad and I have officially decided that regardless of an official cancel or not, it's not worth the risk. The current warning says that kids (Sky) and those with respiratory issues/sensitivities (Dad) should stay inside, all others should wear breathing masks while outside.
Even if the fire is contained or put out tomorrow or Friday there is still going to be smoke in the air and I really don't feel like exposing Sky to it, or breathing it in myself while pushing for a PR.
So, the race is off, but I will be showing support to my Stroller Fit Mommie friends while they run a 1/2 in Tacoma this weekend.
And, Dad will still get Sky time as he will drive over here instead.
So it all works out. Plus, I now get to run tomorrow and Friday, and Saturday if I want...I was not liking taking rest days leading up to the race!
Oops...
Sky's big adventure day in Canada.
Sky is none to happy with me that she missed sending Happy Grandparents Day cards to those special people she loves. We were in Canada and I didn't realize we missed it until we were home.
Please know that Sky loves each and every one of you, and the time she spends with you helps shape the lovely little girl that she is.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Whistler in Pics
We had a great time in Whistler! The weather was amazing, mid 80's to low 90's the entire time. That is pretty much unheard of up there this time of year. We made the most of it and were outside in the sun every day!
I managed to get two runs in. It's funny because I enjoyed them, had fun running while I was there, but both times was having GI issues to the point I was on the verge of crying. I even managed to get lost trying to get back to the condo, which only added to the distress. I know it's due to eating different and not keeping up the same pre-run ritual I have no matter how long or short the run is going to be.
The upside is Whistler is full of fit people that are pretty, so the eye candy was nice, and no bear on the golf course this time.
(not Whistler related but Mark and Sky biked while I tried to pace them during an afternoon run today. Chasing my babe and my baby are a great way to speed up! First mile was blazing, but I can't maintain that pace for too many miles.)
Thankfully we have a lot in common with my aunt and uncle when it comes to sports, food, and drinking. Basically all of it's good and needed in large quantities. ;)
It as a great week of fun, trying new places to eat and new foods and cooking some great, great food at the condo for dinner!
Here are some of the pics...check out this link for more: Whistler Pics 2012
I managed to get two runs in. It's funny because I enjoyed them, had fun running while I was there, but both times was having GI issues to the point I was on the verge of crying. I even managed to get lost trying to get back to the condo, which only added to the distress. I know it's due to eating different and not keeping up the same pre-run ritual I have no matter how long or short the run is going to be.
The upside is Whistler is full of fit people that are pretty, so the eye candy was nice, and no bear on the golf course this time.
(not Whistler related but Mark and Sky biked while I tried to pace them during an afternoon run today. Chasing my babe and my baby are a great way to speed up! First mile was blazing, but I can't maintain that pace for too many miles.)
Thankfully we have a lot in common with my aunt and uncle when it comes to sports, food, and drinking. Basically all of it's good and needed in large quantities. ;)
It as a great week of fun, trying new places to eat and new foods and cooking some great, great food at the condo for dinner!
Here are some of the pics...check out this link for more: Whistler Pics 2012
All of us: Sky, me, Mark, Uncle Paul, Aunt Candy. This was our first lunch on the first day.
Turns out a bidet is the perfect size for a 15 month old bathtub.
Love the Bucky Beaver face.
I figured once she was in it we should get a few cute pics. The germs/nasty factor already happened so why rush to get her out? I don't think the thing gets used often it was, and has always been, spotless.
So this was a lot of fun. Candy and Mark did a chopped basket for Paul and I since the two of us love to cook. They picked out Tiger Prawns, Canadian Bacon coated in Corn Meal, Ginger Beer, and Mango. After reviewing the ingredients we were allowed to pantry shop for what we thought we may need. The pantry was the local farmers market where we got 3 different varieties of beets, and corn on the cob and at the local Market Store we got rice.
We had everything else we used in the condo already. We came up with a Mango Salsa topped with tiger prawns marinated in ginger beer and garlic and cooked in the Canadian bacon drippings. Canadian bacon browned and then glazed with maple syrup caramelized in the pan, Rice cooked with the ginger beer and mango added at the end, and beets boiled.
The beets were pretty amazing as all three were a sweet type of beet and tasted amazing!
Oddly enough we were stumped by the Canadian Bacon. It was the hardest thing to work in, but it all ended up tasting amazing even if it didn't all totally belong on the same plate together.
It is really hard for me to cook without a recipe to follow, so this was completely uncomfortable for me, but so much fun!
First day in the village we hit the liqueur store and stocked up for the week. Yep, we got so much that we had to vacate Sky and fill the stroller, even the underneath basket was overfilled. It ended up being mostly wine which made me feel a little less white trash.
Sky enjoying the view of the golf course and the village from the floor to ceiling window in the living room of the condo.
So this was a theme for her...standing on grates, jumping on them, yelling at them, stomping her foot on them. This was hard for me because I have a completely irrational fear that if I step on a grate I will fall in. But I'm sucked it up and let her have her fun.
This was on the drive up to Whistler. Sky was hungry and ready to get out of the truck. We picked up stuff for lunch and found a fully fenced tennis court in the middle of a nice area. So we went in, shut the gate and let her run in out for a good hour. She loves just running around.
Wednesday night we went to the local brewery for the NFL opener. We were literally the only people in the place and had to request that the game be turned on. The staff was amazing though. As soon as they knew what we needed they hooked us up with a great table surrounded by TV's, and the service and food were great! We left during the 3rd quarter to get Sky back to the Condo for bed and leave before the under 19'ers get kicked out.
Just a couple of cute winos.
Sky was a champ the entire week. She spent way more time in her car seat than is her preference, missed naps most days, or took very short ones, and our eating schedule was all over the place. She even suffered through a nice, I mean REALLY NICE fancy dinning experience on our one big night out. She was charming and amazing the entire time. Not to say she didn't have her moments, but they were just little reminders to find her a place to run around and have some fun and or find her some food.
It was hard to come home because we had such a nice time, but now that I'm home It's nice to be in my own space enjoying the memories and pics.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Hello from Canada
The free internet in the condo has been down all week, so I have not been on line much. I did go into town long enough to set my FF teams though.
It's up and running now though...our last full day here. Go figure.
All is well, lot's of fun being had, weather is amazing!!! Mid to upper 80's, even 90's yesterday! Unheard of for here.
Ton's of cute pics to share once we are home.
Will be on the road tomorrow and I hope to be home in time for the Steelers game!
It's up and running now though...our last full day here. Go figure.
All is well, lot's of fun being had, weather is amazing!!! Mid to upper 80's, even 90's yesterday! Unheard of for here.
Ton's of cute pics to share once we are home.
Will be on the road tomorrow and I hope to be home in time for the Steelers game!
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Oh Canada
We are almost all packed and ready to go. Just have to pack the ice chest and last minute items in the morning and hit the road.
We are both ready for some phone and computer free time away.
We will not be sending or receiving any phone calls or text messages until we are state side again on the 9th.
I can't totally disconnect though. I am taking my laptop because I have 3 ff leagues to keep up with, and will be setting my teams Wednesday before the game starts (may do a quick mid-week post).
You know what I'm loving about this trip...I know I can run off all food/drink indulgences. (I'm actually pretty good on vacation...I don't like to go crazy because I don't like feeling like crap from food and drink I'm not used to.) This is my first vacation that I've been itching to run, in the past I have gone into it thinking if I get a run or two in great, if not I don't really care. I care this time. Whistler has miles and miles of amazing trails and paths and I'm so excited to get some solo runs in!!! I feel like I have put the hard running work in and now I get to enjoy some "vacation" runs!
I hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend and enjoys their week!
P.S. Have fun in Seaside Jodi!! Can't wait to walk after we are both back in town and catch up.
P.P.S. Amy I looked for you in the crowd while watching the ND game today, didn't see you but thought about you and how much fun you were having at the game! Hope you got some fun runs in on the Green Isle!
We are both ready for some phone and computer free time away.
We will not be sending or receiving any phone calls or text messages until we are state side again on the 9th.
I can't totally disconnect though. I am taking my laptop because I have 3 ff leagues to keep up with, and will be setting my teams Wednesday before the game starts (may do a quick mid-week post).
You know what I'm loving about this trip...I know I can run off all food/drink indulgences. (I'm actually pretty good on vacation...I don't like to go crazy because I don't like feeling like crap from food and drink I'm not used to.) This is my first vacation that I've been itching to run, in the past I have gone into it thinking if I get a run or two in great, if not I don't really care. I care this time. Whistler has miles and miles of amazing trails and paths and I'm so excited to get some solo runs in!!! I feel like I have put the hard running work in and now I get to enjoy some "vacation" runs!
I hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend and enjoys their week!
P.S. Have fun in Seaside Jodi!! Can't wait to walk after we are both back in town and catch up.
P.P.S. Amy I looked for you in the crowd while watching the ND game today, didn't see you but thought about you and how much fun you were having at the game! Hope you got some fun runs in on the Green Isle!
Snore Monster
There are three of them in the house at the moment. I was awake until 3am and finally gave up as nothing I tried stopped Mark from snoring.
Went out to the couch to find the parents dog snoring away sound asleep and could hear Sky snoring through the wall.
So what did I do...I watched a movie. Then watched the ND vs Navy game. Was kinda glad I was up early enough to catch the game when is started!
But, now it's only 9:16 and I'm ready for a nap!!! But, there is still a lot of packing to be done if we are going to leave for Whistler tomorrow, so after my 11am draft, last FF draft I have, it's back to packing and cleaning the house.
I hate coming home to a dirty house! I like to easy back into real life by coming home to a clean house and not having to do anything major. The best part is our condo has a washer and dryer so I can do all the vacation laundry the night before we leave to make coming home that much easier!
Went out to the couch to find the parents dog snoring away sound asleep and could hear Sky snoring through the wall.
So what did I do...I watched a movie. Then watched the ND vs Navy game. Was kinda glad I was up early enough to catch the game when is started!
But, now it's only 9:16 and I'm ready for a nap!!! But, there is still a lot of packing to be done if we are going to leave for Whistler tomorrow, so after my 11am draft, last FF draft I have, it's back to packing and cleaning the house.
I hate coming home to a dirty house! I like to easy back into real life by coming home to a clean house and not having to do anything major. The best part is our condo has a washer and dryer so I can do all the vacation laundry the night before we leave to make coming home that much easier!
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