All Things Loved - January

Here is January's edition of the things I loved this month:

Cliff Bars (White Chocolate Macadamia Nut)

My friend M was telling me about these and I had read about them on Skinny Runner so I thought I’d give them a try. I had picked this flavor out of all the kinds they have Cliff Bar because it sounded the most appealing to me. The first time I tried it, I was hooked! It tasted like a cookie to me. If I know I want to push myself on a workout (go for a long run or go for a run and do a video) I’ll eat one of these about an hour before I’m going to work out. Some of my best runs have been when I’ve eaten one before starting.

Shot Blocks (Cran-Raspberry)

I had originally tried the GU gels and couldn’t even take a whole one. There was something about the taste, texture and aftertaste I just couldn’t get over. Then I tried GU Chomps and they were kind of big, hard to chew (they’d fall apart into smaller pieces and be all over your mouth) and there was a weird after taste. So when I went to the grocery store to pick up a few Cliff Bars to try, I found these and thought I’d give them a try. I have only had the Cran-Razpberry flavor but I love them. They are smaller, easier to chew (almost like a fruit snack), taste great and don’t leave a weird after taste in your mouth. Not to mention the way they are packaged will make them so much easier to carry when I start running outside again.

JACKIE WARNER VIDEO

When I entered my team in the ½ marathon lottery I started thinking about ways to have a better race, time and overall experience. One of the things I came up with was to try and get stronger all over. So I found some of Jackie Warner’s workout video’s on Amazon to try. This was the first (out of the three I have) that I’ve tried. Its only about 30 minutes long and you do each move for a minute. The first time I did the video, I could barely do each move for 30 seconds and towards the end of the video 15-20 seconds was all I could do (with 5 pound weights in each hand). I made a goal to be able to do the whole video, without stopping, with 5 pound weights. I accomplished that task about two weeks ago. It was hard, and I still swear at Jackie and sweat like I’m in Arizona in the summer, but I’ve gotten so much stronger and my runs have gotten longer and easier and I’m not as sore afterwards. So not only am I getting stronger all over, but its helping me have better runs too.

LIGHT BLUE PERFUME (Dolce & Gabanna)

My SIL has this perfume and I always loved the way it smelled, so I bought some for myself a while ago to try out and have been hooked ever since. With rare exception, I don’t use any other perfume. I love that it has a light and clean scent and is never seems to be over powering.

MICHELE MINI URBAN WATCH

I have been looking for a watch for years; I wanted something that wasn’t to girly, but not to manly either. When I first started reading the Skinny Runner blog, I was going through old entries catching up, and she posted a picture and review of her watch and I got so excited! It was exactly the kind of watch I’d been looking for! It was a little bigger then a typical woman’s watch, but not manly. It can go with jeans and a t-shirt as much as it can go with business attire. I started looking around online and ended up finding the best deal on Amazon and got it last week. So far, I love it, and I love knowing I will always know what time it is, without having to dig for my cell phone or ask someone else.

The Yellow Lilly 

Another blog I read did a series of post on Etsy shops and one of them was for The Yellow Lily. I ordered one of the large pieces and it’s the perfect size for my earrings (except studs), necklaces and bracelets. Other than wishing there was one more eye hook on the bottom (I have two bracelets that take up an entire hook alone), I think it’s the perfect size.

My Nana

I love my Nana every second of every day (like everyone in my family), but about a week ago she sent me a card thanking me for all the support in her battle with Breast Cancer. She sent me a picture of her self, which I have it on my bureau, and look at it every day. It reminds me that she is strong, courageous and a fighter. Seeing that picture makes me smile and reminds me to be thankful for everything I have in my life. I can’t wait to put a picture of the two of us together next to that one.

I love you, Nana.

Running Obsession

So with my recent finding of the Skinny Runner blog, thanks to my friend M, I was thinking about running a lot and about my running "stuff" so I thought I'd create a post about it. As I was taking everything out to take pictures, I realized how bad my obsession really is. (As long as D doesn't find out, just how much I have, I'll be safe! haha) I'm going to break it down by self appointed catagories: accessories, shoes, support, tops and bottoms.

ACCESSORIES:
I use a certain type/kind of hair elastic. I'm neurotic about having my hair in a tight pony. I get it good and tight (aka: secured like no other) and then I don't have to worry about fixing it while I'm running for whatever reason (falling out, to loose ect). I use Goody brand "ouchless" (the two ends are glued together so there is no metal on it). As soon as they get to stretched out and/or break from pulling on them to much, they get tossed. Hence, the reason I have so many!



I also use a 'headband' to keep my sideburns and inevitable 'fly aways' out of my face and from driving me crazy. I have purchased quite a few different styles to try and find some that are tight, would stay on my head and not need constant re-adjustment (because it was slipping back and off my head). Unfortunately most of them aren't used for running anymore.



While on one of my frequent excursions to Dick's Sporting Good's, I found these amazing headbands. They are Nike brand, and come in a three pack (my teal one has mysteriously gone missing) for $9.99. On the back side there is a 'rubbery gel thing', that helps the headband grip to your hair. This keeps the headband tight around your head and from slipping back. I fell in love the first time I used them! I wish they would come out with more colors though.

SHOES:

I'm not sure how I found Asics brand or what made me try them, but when I first started running and training for the Relay in 2007, they were the shoe I had. Now they are the only brand I run with. I even have a certain style I prefer (I can't remember exactly what it is, I always bring one of my shoes into the store and say I want this brand and style).

SUPPORT:
When training for the relay, I was having a lot of hip pain/discomfort. I went to a chiropractor who figured out one of my legs was slightly longer then the other and that's what was causing the hip pain/discomfort. They suggested I get fit for a pair of custom orthotics, but after hearing how much they cost, I thought I'd try to find something cheaper at the drug store first. I found that the Dr Sholls insertsworked best for me. They end around the balls of you foot, just before your toes and are relatively thin, they don't make my shoes fit differently or tighter and aren't uncomfortable or very thick. and they make a huge difference. An added bonus is that they make my shoes last a little longer!





I may be in the minority on this one, but when I'm running, I want as little movement on top as possible. This spring I was went shopping at Tilton, NH outlets, and found these sports bras at the Champion store and I love them. I will not use any other sports bra now, they are amazing! They are tight and supportive but breathable so you aren't creating a sauna on your top half!

TOPS:
When I first starting running, I hated running in t-shirts and would only run in tank tops (aka -'wife beaters'). I hated being sweaty and wanted a top that wouldn't make me any hotter. But my arms would get chaffed (like rug burn) from the repetitive back and forth rubbing as my arms would swing so I needed to find something else. I recently found Under Armour t-shirts at Dick's for $19.99. They are light weight, so they don't create any extra heat, the seams never bother me, keep their shape and come in a ton of colors (more than what's below).

I've also acquired a few Nike t-shirts when they are on sale at Dick's. I'm a sucker for cute workout clothes! They are the same price as the Under Armour shirts, but are a little tighter and I find the white ones become a little more 'see through' then I'd like if I'm really sweaty. (I found this out the hard way running in NC in August, on the main road. It wasn't pretty.)



For outdoor running in the early fall, when you need just a little something more than a t-shirt, I love my Nike half zip (right). My mom got me the other one (left) from Costco for Christmas. I have yet to try it out, but it feels comparable to the Nike one, so I think I'll like it.



And when fall is in full force and you need something heavier to keep warm, I LOVE these Nike half zips. They have a light lining (almost like a fleece) which keeps you warm but never get to hot. They also have a hood and even though I've never used it, they aren't heavy and don't pull at the neck, which is nice. There is also a zip pocket so you can store a few small things.

BOTTOMS:
I LOVE these Nike shorts. Most of them have a little pocket on the right hip that you could store chapstick or a key in. They also have built in underwear, which makes wearing real underwear optional (I always wear underwear and don't have a problem with them interfering with the lining, bunching or anything like that). They are light weight, don't ride up, breath nice and come in a variety of colors.



When shorts no longer cut it, I like these Nike running capris (left) and tights (right).I didn't think I'd ever be one of those people caught dead running in spandex, however, my friend M convinced me to try a pair and I really like them. They are comfortable, tight without being to tight, and keep your legs at a good temperature. The capri's end just below my knee and the full length tights are lined so they are good for winter running and have a zip pocket above the butt and a zipper at the lower calf and go to the ankle. You can control the tightness (unzipped would keep them pretty loose, and probably flap around and all the way zipped would be like skinny jeans).



That's a lot of stuff / information and I'm not sure if anyone will find any of this useful, but I had fun.

All Things Loved - December Edition

I cannot believe December has come and gone, and 2010 for that matter. This year seemed to go by faster then any other year, it seems. As we close out this month and year, here is a look at some of the things I loved this month:

FRAME:
My parents got us this frame as a Christmas present and we love it! It's so unique, different and personal, and it didn't hurt they used one of our favorite wedding pictures either.

LOTION:
I found this lotion from another blog I follow. I had to stop at a few stores before I could find it, but let me tell you, it was totally worth it! This lotion smells amazing, is creamy and rich without being greasy and is a great lotion for dry skin / winter time. (Johnson & Johnson's baby creamy oil - aloe and vitamin E)

MAKEUP:

I used to be a huge fan of NARS blush. However, the last time I bought some, it had a lot more "illuminating specs" (aka glitter) that got everywhere (all over my face, hands and on other people who came in contact with my face or hands). So I went back to Mirror Mirror, a local makeup store, and asked for a blush that was similar, but without the "illuminating specs" and they had me try one by Trish McEvoy and I love it. It's the perfect color, stays on all day and doesn't have the dreaded glitter! And it comes in this cute case which makes it super easy to stash anywhere (purse, clutch, makeup bag ect).



NECKLACE:

I had debated for the last few weeks on whether I wanted a Pandora bracelet. I finally settled on the fact that I probably wouldn't wear it as much as other bracelets I already have, and they can get pretty expensive. I had also been looking for some sort of bracelet or necklace to represent the two major cancers in our families right now, pink and orange. When I was browsing the Pandora charm website, I found two pretty glass beads, one in pink and one in orange. I bought the two charms and put them on a plain gold chain and wear them to represent my Nana, Derek's Aunt J and Derek's Mom M.



MOTIVATION:

This one isn't entirely tangible or something you can see. At the end of November my sister-in-law R and I were talking about working out, finding the motivation to do it, staying consistent among other aspects. Through out the month of December I have found motivation. With the exception of this past week, because of a stomach bug, I've worked out 4 - 5 times a week all month and don't dread it as much. Last night I was reading some running magazines, Runners World and Running Times as well as reading the blog Skinny Runner, and found ways to keep my motivation going. It's got me looking forward to running again, how to improve my running and how to keep it fun and not make it a chore. I'm entering the half marathon lottery for the Burlington City Marathon tomorrow and up until last night I was on the fence about how I felt. I wasn't 100% sure I wanted to get picked, but I wasn't 100% sure I didn't want to NOT get picked. Now I know, I 100% WANT to get picked. (I'll be sure to update on this after I find out.)

Merry Christmas

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas filled with friends, family and love. Here are a few pictures from our first Christmas as husband and wife.

Books

THIS AINT YO MAMA’S BOOK #54 – Start a book exchange with my sister-in-laws.

My sister-in-law’s (SIL) and I all love to read and we each have quite an impressive personal library. We were talking over the summer and came up with the idea to start a book exchange between the three of us. But then G had little P early and B started school so we put it on hold until they each had a little more free time to read.

I have been talking to my SIL B about a quartet of books by Nora Roberts and she was excited to read them. I got the 4^th book in and finished it so I’m sending the whole series to her now that she’s graduated and will have some free time!

The Bride Quartet Nora Roberts
Set in the fun, fabulous and sometimes hectic world of wedding planning, follow the story of four friends and their struggles with life, love and family as they build their wedding planning company, VOWS.

Vision In White
Wedding photographer Mackensie "Mac" Elliot is most at home behind the camera, but her focus is shattered moments before an important wedding rehearsal when she bumps into the bride-to-be's brother...an encounter that has them both seeing stars.

Bed of Roses
As little girls MacKensie, Emma, Laurel, and Parker spent hours acting out their perfect make believe "I do" moments. Years later their fantasies become reality when they start their own wedding planning company to make every woman's dream day come true. With perfect flowers, delicious desserts, and joyful moments captured on film, Nora Roberts's Bride Quartet shares each woman's emotionally magical journey to romance.

Savor the Moment
Wedding baker Laurel McBane is surrounded by romance working at VOWS wedding planning company with her best friends Parker, Emma, and Mac. But she's too low-key to appreciate all the luxuries that their clients seem to long for. What she does appreciate is a strong, intelligent man, a man just like Parker's older brother Delaney, on whom she's had a mega-crush since childhood.

Happy Ever After
As the public face of Vows wedding planning company, Parker Brown has an uncanny knack for fulfilling every bride's vision. She just can't see where her own life is headed. Mechanic Malcomb Kavanaugh loves figuring out how things work, and Parker is no exception. Both know that moving from minor flirtation to major hook-up is a serious step. Parker's business risks have always paid off, but now she'll have to take the chance of a lifetime with her heart.

Music and Dust

SUCH RANDOMNESS THERE IS NO CATEGORY – #95 & #96

#95 Transfer itunes from desktop to the laptop

When my brother came home for Thanksgiving he helped me with my computer! He has an external hard drive and was able to transfer the songs I had in itunes on the desktop and transfer them to the itunes on the laptop. He also transferred all his music, some of which is from my dad’s awesome collection, and I now have over 3,000 songs in itunes!!!

# 96 Do something with desktop computer.

He also helped me clean it (it got pretty dusty in there from sitting so close to the floor for so long. So now I can give the desktop to my sister and brother-in-law. Apparently they can now get internet at their house and their desktop is old, slow and doesn’t work all that well; or fast. So when I go home for Christmas, I’ll bring my desktop and give it to them.

Food

FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD #94 - Make something from scratch

The past weekend I made a co-workers corn chowder recipe and after a little fumbling at first, it ended up coming out pretty good! And it was relatively easy to make (I took major short cuts and used canned carrots and potatoes) and took about 15 minutes to prep.

Here's the recipe:

**Disclaimer - following this recipe exactly will make enough to fill an entire crock pot so if you don't want that much, I'd adjust the recipe.**

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cutter
4 small onions (chopped)
6 cups cream style corn
2 cups boiling water
4 cups potatoes (chopped)
2 cups celery (chopped)
4 tps parsley
4 cups half n half
2 tsp salt
2 tsp pepper

Directions:

1. Cook butter, onion and carrots on medium - high heat until onions are tender. (This is a good time to get 2 the 2 cups of water going.)
2. Add potatoes, boiling water (to cook potatoes) and celery. Cook until potatoes are tender.
3. Add corn, half n half, parsley, salt and pepper.
4. Heat everything until its boiling, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

The longer you let everything simmer, the thicker the chowder will get. Its also a good idea to continue stirring everything so it doesn't burn/stick to the bottom of the pan.