tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31733954720118182662024-03-19T15:01:31.804-05:00The Balanced BicyclistSeeking balance among life's fun adventures!The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-24319055226691811982011-06-26T21:55:00.000-05:002011-06-26T21:55:31.937-05:00Long Time No.. See?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm back!!</div><div><br />
</div><div>It's been forever since I've blogged, and I've been told by a few of you that I should keep it up. I just lost all of my motivation to blog for some reason. Oh well, life happens! I'm going to try to check in more often again :)</div><div><br />
</div><div>When we left off, I had just signed up for my first marathon! And well, training was awesome and so was the race.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Let's start with a recap of the trip!</div><div><br />
</div><div>This was Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, MN. We drove there on Thursday, 2 days before the race. We stayed in a hotel that was just about 2 blocks away from the harbor and were on the 11th floor where we had a great view!! .. when it wasn't super foggy!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Duluth was cold and gloomy while we were there. It was dry though on Friday, but they were calling for rain all morning on race day.</div><div><br />
</div><div>On Friday, we explored the town a bit, fed the seagulls, ate a Pizza Luce (my fave!!), and watched the 5k that went on that evening. All while I was trying not to fatigue my legs and while I kept obsessing over the fact that it may rain.. I was pretty nervous/anxious all day, but we still had a good time. Here are some pics..</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jCSjWCJoJr4_WR7o9uLrKiod0rRna6ZVubqcBVvEM6kQ4Lp3sqZeFwIRLrC_8_wHHrADtCfbt7dqd6hyphenhyphenXNHayKb3rI3-qScx-VWb0MMTAf1K_xQCfNXpBJIvBCFRleAh1nqAB543Ow/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jCSjWCJoJr4_WR7o9uLrKiod0rRna6ZVubqcBVvEM6kQ4Lp3sqZeFwIRLrC_8_wHHrADtCfbt7dqd6hyphenhyphenXNHayKb3rI3-qScx-VWb0MMTAf1K_xQCfNXpBJIvBCFRleAh1nqAB543Ow/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lift bridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYmYUwBgwU2QDZ_5ExOKLbUmWyk70eI7x1UJXFHvH5tK7EcWGNPwZsOd2_0AzZ-dOv7ptWe2aPHgDhYlX5SgTJHHlYVZfrAxOIJlMNcyfHepUtqfZnwkSxd9yZVZO4UYI-liNAWGxvA/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYmYUwBgwU2QDZ_5ExOKLbUmWyk70eI7x1UJXFHvH5tK7EcWGNPwZsOd2_0AzZ-dOv7ptWe2aPHgDhYlX5SgTJHHlYVZfrAxOIJlMNcyfHepUtqfZnwkSxd9yZVZO4UYI-liNAWGxvA/s400/DSC_0006.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved the seagulls! They were hungry :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDZkjsnS3YW3Pk5CJXJDDHbljTx4FKf-PSBE08IrQUx-lCBhCO7WwY9c3R6ok7bA6u6t5Pf36utkvHX73UDTci0ESqT185HynC3YbBJd3hRN4-F4qElXnlBqpj6SXXfiG95e-ef1LcA/s400/DSC_0018.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fog finally cleared in the afternoon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDZkjsnS3YW3Pk5CJXJDDHbljTx4FKf-PSBE08IrQUx-lCBhCO7WwY9c3R6ok7bA6u6t5Pf36utkvHX73UDTci0ESqT185HynC3YbBJd3hRN4-F4qElXnlBqpj6SXXfiG95e-ef1LcA/s1600/DSC_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcH3Uof8DPjuhwMbzh6bRtw9Z8Zk5MNDg8jURn46LEQ3I4QlQlrJvMkB0jxpNJGSjOI57JFsrCifRQoBKJgGMkAaROql0zwz9h5zA46fLHEO0SzGy8Qw6C2esu8Lpaw3t4NJJ0esvc6Q/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcH3Uof8DPjuhwMbzh6bRtw9Z8Zk5MNDg8jURn46LEQ3I4QlQlrJvMkB0jxpNJGSjOI57JFsrCifRQoBKJgGMkAaROql0zwz9h5zA46fLHEO0SzGy8Qw6C2esu8Lpaw3t4NJJ0esvc6Q/s400/DSC_0020.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was so pretty by the water.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMg3EirpDH2qO3t0e94nqOeKMlLUoCqPwhkpsf-IpD1g0aKEXFscl39uv7_j1HaRjfwEdRdBtIhzvzajW-m0PXbaDMF19IiKKNF2dEzaufRmnO6TWnff5OmsZdnaCeSSkGnQCmLtKiQ/s1600/DSC_0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMg3EirpDH2qO3t0e94nqOeKMlLUoCqPwhkpsf-IpD1g0aKEXFscl39uv7_j1HaRjfwEdRdBtIhzvzajW-m0PXbaDMF19IiKKNF2dEzaufRmnO6TWnff5OmsZdnaCeSSkGnQCmLtKiQ/s400/DSC_0027.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start of the 5K.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUro7J_PQkTnp_YwxO5GfcT-Ezo5JhD0mGXT2tsoP5ghhViOGqdAFLu8p6-5fEQjId9OP1BZCy_atHMwElXS64FWdoYNEF7j9N4CLqulBgEiJQyYYW7pGpNIR84Y324Vfg80nmPC7RCQ/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUro7J_PQkTnp_YwxO5GfcT-Ezo5JhD0mGXT2tsoP5ghhViOGqdAFLu8p6-5fEQjId9OP1BZCy_atHMwElXS64FWdoYNEF7j9N4CLqulBgEiJQyYYW7pGpNIR84Y324Vfg80nmPC7RCQ/s400/DSC_0044.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheering them on - the leaders were so fast! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Then we tried to find somewhere to eat that wasn't packed. We ate pizza around 2 because I wanted to have my large meal before the race earlier in the day so I would have more time to digest it. We ended up just having Subway, which was less-than-stellar, but it worked. I didn't want to fight the crowds anywhere!<div><br />
</div><div>That night I took a hot bath while enjoying some Gatorade (orange flavor, of course!) and reading Runner's World. Then I tried to go to bed around 9, but it was too hard. I didn't get there until after 10 probably, and I think I woke up every 2 hours or so. I ended up getting up at 3:45 am to get ready for the race!!</div><div><br />
</div><div>.... And that's where I'm going to leave off for tonight. Next post - Marathon Recap - Hopefully with some of the professional pictures I ordered :-)</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'll be back soon this time - I promise!</div><div><div><br />
</div></div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-69366239177671502592011-03-06T18:37:00.000-06:002011-03-06T18:37:39.383-06:00Broccoli Cheese SoupNot your mama's broccoli cheese soup....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqf33A2us_2Kn5B8qUD5ppCy6ecQ93x27cEe4V_y8cAqmlyWfe7R1sOAnVbI322qiR-AKKcIfFW9owtfyj7h2ZXc_A5NVsuP-gvFgddEdPQoY3sHTyihYbrKkngG81a4uqOargf8rNg/s1600/IMG_0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqf33A2us_2Kn5B8qUD5ppCy6ecQ93x27cEe4V_y8cAqmlyWfe7R1sOAnVbI322qiR-AKKcIfFW9owtfyj7h2ZXc_A5NVsuP-gvFgddEdPQoY3sHTyihYbrKkngG81a4uqOargf8rNg/s400/IMG_0142.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
More like a broccoli lover's soup! I LOVE the bright green color.<br />
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I followed <a href="http://pinkparsleycatering.blogspot.com/2011/02/broccoli-cheese-soup.html">this recipe</a>. It's not vegan, but it's very delicious! I can't remember the last time I bought cheese to cook with, so I think I'm doing well at lessening my impact on the environment, my body, and animals. Sometimes cheese is just delicious.... especially when paired with broccoli!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XyVmcxOoUtkJvm1JkGMVjusexb9Q8Y2AMqS3rEeZP2nlrki48sr2XctHO5N6FefeF4siB7BRYg1UtFF4XAfk14x9478H3Uq89pflSS1Rx_1Ry08t9Ei_o_D0mDgnnHg69oMUUKa1yg/s1600/IMG_0143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XyVmcxOoUtkJvm1JkGMVjusexb9Q8Y2AMqS3rEeZP2nlrki48sr2XctHO5N6FefeF4siB7BRYg1UtFF4XAfk14x9478H3Uq89pflSS1Rx_1Ry08t9Ei_o_D0mDgnnHg69oMUUKa1yg/s400/IMG_0143.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Served with a slice of Ezekiel bread. It's so good, and eating something this vibrant makes you feel good.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nutrition facts:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9tJ_9fW-9agc-KwwS-X7nzLjEF2tsA7um8vhsq_oKLrAXT5QKPBvnioddyD-q7bQ0rlM-LZpSBFeyUigCKJmjCwEUSuzg2bcJzYFBnE1vyU4HNDiwfP1Y1HooXaf2bY1uxp5KvYv6A/s1600/Broccoli+Cheese+Soup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9tJ_9fW-9agc-KwwS-X7nzLjEF2tsA7um8vhsq_oKLrAXT5QKPBvnioddyD-q7bQ0rlM-LZpSBFeyUigCKJmjCwEUSuzg2bcJzYFBnE1vyU4HNDiwfP1Y1HooXaf2bY1uxp5KvYv6A/s400/Broccoli+Cheese+Soup.png" width="280" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not bad for a cheesy soup. I got 5 servings out of this recipe.. I can't wait for lunch tomorrow!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And for dessert....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JO9BPgEk2WpDnWtGiEMMqLzKwXGdKMuuepj7nQGTFl-o0xDw4f_Sb7gFLuVc7eVY9v3Li_nbPn9IFmuOMrvCJGkt6xXiNxGSD43Hwnq8RxdBRT6HR_ai_z8lTGb8hjvsGLZyz55Z9Q/s1600/IMG_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JO9BPgEk2WpDnWtGiEMMqLzKwXGdKMuuepj7nQGTFl-o0xDw4f_Sb7gFLuVc7eVY9v3Li_nbPn9IFmuOMrvCJGkt6xXiNxGSD43Hwnq8RxdBRT6HR_ai_z8lTGb8hjvsGLZyz55Z9Q/s400/IMG_0148.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.thehealthyeverythingtarian.com/?p=14059">Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies</a>! Only one, though.. for now ;) They are very good; I definitely recommend them. Dillon and I had fun baking last night!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the marathon front I'm doing well - feeling confident and excited! Today was a cross train day, and Dillon and I went on an hour long walk in the snow. It was a nice change; Plus we went out to breakfast at Dunn Brothers, which was awesome. I love coffee and a muffin in the morning!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dillon and I plan on relaxing for the rest of the evening, which sounds great to me! I hope you enjoyed your weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-24653576418851173312011-03-02T16:30:00.001-06:002011-03-02T16:36:49.876-06:00Here We Go!No, I'm not talking about Bud Light. Ick.<br />
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A year or 2 ago I wouldn't ever imagine I would be doing this...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRd-AMaOOBAfSu81CDa7O9Vnhgj6xPFIPQcVj8ov-zP-xvJ-UzEsoymUoaJSGRIy7o8egGvLaWKiHwcX-FbA3R0def4KYBHbz56YUfNUKlwdFjTJEEMyM-Ps6CJ-olGjU-KfKwSVL7g/s1600/2011GrandmasMarathonEmailHeader.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRd-AMaOOBAfSu81CDa7O9Vnhgj6xPFIPQcVj8ov-zP-xvJ-UzEsoymUoaJSGRIy7o8egGvLaWKiHwcX-FbA3R0def4KYBHbz56YUfNUKlwdFjTJEEMyM-Ps6CJ-olGjU-KfKwSVL7g/s400/2011GrandmasMarathonEmailHeader.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I think I may be crazy - 26.2 miles is a long way!<br />
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But I can do it because I'm a strong, determined woman. Plus, I have a plan.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEika03cvC6TRXM_CyxuX2HD9yhNKagDXbK8wwjqJpsKWYQqeLxOHRBTZoEMWH8BbpceOll9JrOyBKWodUXgXyBRMhWD0Xtn53UXnXw3jFEbkTCZpidzuz-OTHQQuFvd5TuNKjFHByOtNw/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-02-28+at+9.51.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEika03cvC6TRXM_CyxuX2HD9yhNKagDXbK8wwjqJpsKWYQqeLxOHRBTZoEMWH8BbpceOll9JrOyBKWodUXgXyBRMhWD0Xtn53UXnXw3jFEbkTCZpidzuz-OTHQQuFvd5TuNKjFHByOtNw/s400/Screen+shot+2011-02-28+at+9.51.58+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks, <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/novices.html">Hal Higdon</a>, for your knowledge about how to get me through this challenge.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've also been hanging out on <a href="http://www.nomeatathlete.com/">No Meat Athlete</a> for some great advice. It's such an awesome site; I can't believe I haven't checked it out more in depth sooner. I even have one of their shirts!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm excited to document most of my journey to 26.2 here. Should be fun :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm off to get a <a href="http://www.nomeatathlete.com/foam-rolling/">foam roller</a>. See you later!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-13678652295015768402011-02-27T19:09:00.000-06:002011-02-27T19:09:44.544-06:00Recently...I re-discovered my love for oats and coffee (french press, please!).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTH-QJstB3sigXRY70ORphKJVRd2wEq6T88ov8I1v0U_j3wbTg-YJoiY9XZOSV3p00ORW-wwFI23_a4_Ztc5iE1WDA9Ybjqvau_M9RcUMqq5rMtPzmgqEAlZo0GyC6RDn-M9yHhHfPg/s1600/IMG_0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTH-QJstB3sigXRY70ORphKJVRd2wEq6T88ov8I1v0U_j3wbTg-YJoiY9XZOSV3p00ORW-wwFI23_a4_Ztc5iE1WDA9Ybjqvau_M9RcUMqq5rMtPzmgqEAlZo0GyC6RDn-M9yHhHfPg/s400/IMG_0113.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cuddled with my cute kitty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fmUR3oWusJpPalIXCG38YZavMf9Jp5Ae3PpJMyLlZBkRsj7Y6rARfSwg_TWrd2Hl82ZhPA9DcBavLBga7obSxXxnenSu4Oy1bHaa_Imjg9nnjxt-qCcWffhzQsWA1vWwd5uUAGnb8Q/s1600/IMG_0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fmUR3oWusJpPalIXCG38YZavMf9Jp5Ae3PpJMyLlZBkRsj7Y6rARfSwg_TWrd2Hl82ZhPA9DcBavLBga7obSxXxnenSu4Oy1bHaa_Imjg9nnjxt-qCcWffhzQsWA1vWwd5uUAGnb8Q/s400/IMG_0112.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drank green smoothies.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82hsNaeuY7OkEZkv8kNOSKm011NW1xIZhkMNNCO6WF4cKHRlsC2WxATtmKggLhYra9F-ZZHy2Dgv06O-o-BGFiGiEYWe-gvK2QES-OX9a73tz9YKAhm5fwZzkulSVKCMGRv8gyZsZyA/s1600/IMG_0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82hsNaeuY7OkEZkv8kNOSKm011NW1xIZhkMNNCO6WF4cKHRlsC2WxATtmKggLhYra9F-ZZHy2Dgv06O-o-BGFiGiEYWe-gvK2QES-OX9a73tz9YKAhm5fwZzkulSVKCMGRv8gyZsZyA/s400/IMG_0110.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Had a fun dinner date with friends! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprWT0A7HYNbg0PgrdleS8JJitIO7DbpYGGCRwGwjXxxU3QNkmGUVctDbJCiWUnnTTkc9uOvqd6OVmsJfDvpZsiqjcfzpW4F5cPslPMQJsSlJYwfsZCqnp7RNuGiD3O__IMBJY5YeHGA/s1600/IMG_0119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprWT0A7HYNbg0PgrdleS8JJitIO7DbpYGGCRwGwjXxxU3QNkmGUVctDbJCiWUnnTTkc9uOvqd6OVmsJfDvpZsiqjcfzpW4F5cPslPMQJsSlJYwfsZCqnp7RNuGiD3O__IMBJY5YeHGA/s400/IMG_0119.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Walked down by the river, in awe that soon all the land around it would soon be underwater.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6eADdUvyh_fAbR1NhAtJJn5ms5g9xnNFrtbUwgMZwCh6L1uStUvLLUOY4z_kOfwma3sYb9b2kyD1pYhfohUHxbkbdJo-GwcQsDt12tU7CJWM40tFQZbGDB_Haw82XbD0PwCKCCN28w/s1600/IMG_0121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6eADdUvyh_fAbR1NhAtJJn5ms5g9xnNFrtbUwgMZwCh6L1uStUvLLUOY4z_kOfwma3sYb9b2kyD1pYhfohUHxbkbdJo-GwcQsDt12tU7CJWM40tFQZbGDB_Haw82XbD0PwCKCCN28w/s400/IMG_0121.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Made wonderful granola bars, that are actually pretty nutritious, unlike most packaged bars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFGsII4kfRm9N75OvqcCHuvl4TD12w5St4kx8VCNgjrZRRVmbIplHZqp-5UwpR3bYl_x8vSpBv-E8voMTT5F8N9cRo95tlsG_gCiZFjUpPfuds_zEDg-9wLOdRsOyGT12ZVhq2sFI4A/s1600/IMG_0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFGsII4kfRm9N75OvqcCHuvl4TD12w5St4kx8VCNgjrZRRVmbIplHZqp-5UwpR3bYl_x8vSpBv-E8voMTT5F8N9cRo95tlsG_gCiZFjUpPfuds_zEDg-9wLOdRsOyGT12ZVhq2sFI4A/s400/IMG_0132.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients:</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup rolled oats</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup crushed Quaker Oatmeal Squares</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 cup chopped almonds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 cup chopped mission figs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 tbsp chia seeds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2/3 cup <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-to-peanut-butter.html">peanut butter</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 cup brown rice syrup</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/4 cup honey</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mix together dry ingredients, set aside. Mix together wet ingredients and microwave until it can be stirred smoother. Add wet to dry and mix. Line a square pan with parchment, plastic, or tinfoil, and press mixture into pan. Place in refrigerator to until bars stick together well, and then cut into 12 bars.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDp3NnpaO20XIc5il2y_KzDIGNT9IolfU22bY2D2RgkwmrdEUrTQK6fr5B1NDKeI2eAv6w-52t_HfwftsQ2NmeDSvg01x3thxXH5VCRKzpSfEUCOyUF6E3HLSmovliPSAyFpuEYWGTsg/s1600/IMG_0133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDp3NnpaO20XIc5il2y_KzDIGNT9IolfU22bY2D2RgkwmrdEUrTQK6fr5B1NDKeI2eAv6w-52t_HfwftsQ2NmeDSvg01x3thxXH5VCRKzpSfEUCOyUF6E3HLSmovliPSAyFpuEYWGTsg/s400/IMG_0133.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGwK7hLMpI3lYkE8adtGDo6l2mUHMtLf5VPuC5dZJw9vr7DD5mbNKdXFq1gFyTITfwo8sgdsg7OMHUPeqPqMpDTt34IVvyb4OD-yuBmxcbjg8ZLZTNweXFfvU5ExIRzkAc2loFAxzww/s1600/IMG_0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGwK7hLMpI3lYkE8adtGDo6l2mUHMtLf5VPuC5dZJw9vr7DD5mbNKdXFq1gFyTITfwo8sgdsg7OMHUPeqPqMpDTt34IVvyb4OD-yuBmxcbjg8ZLZTNweXFfvU5ExIRzkAc2loFAxzww/s400/IMG_0134.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yum! And the nutrition facts - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOq2FFm3htfVx6bw_5-krCwUbZnDar3lB5XiIUaYhTbamurI1ImznSsAtVNIkScmPhUzZTVArd_cLr7PXyvodt5DVpv9UMp-qrS2MCxnMMiIB_qyXOgn4SfTm7K9xjl_9FbsTTEDbmIw/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-02-27+at+6.50.59+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOq2FFm3htfVx6bw_5-krCwUbZnDar3lB5XiIUaYhTbamurI1ImznSsAtVNIkScmPhUzZTVArd_cLr7PXyvodt5DVpv9UMp-qrS2MCxnMMiIB_qyXOgn4SfTm7K9xjl_9FbsTTEDbmIw/s400/Screen+shot+2011-02-27+at+6.50.59+PM.png" width="280" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not too shabby! I just used whatever random ingredients I had on hand to make these, so feel free to sub whatever you like. Just make sure to have a good wet to dry ratio to keep the bars together. Much cheaper and healthier than store bought :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And with that, I'm off! I enjoyed a weekend of rest and fun, and now tomorrow I start my 12-week half-marathon plan! I can't believe it's only 3 months away. I'll share that soon :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you had a fabulous weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-20350193790497796742011-02-15T20:10:00.001-06:002011-02-15T20:12:17.490-06:00Catch Up!Hello Friends!<br />
<br />
Sorry about my lack of posts the past few days days... I've been busy! With what, you ask? I'm not sure, specifically. Just the usual cooking, working, reading, running, spending time with my lovely family, things like that.<br />
<br />
So instead of doing a day by day recap, I'll just show you some of my recent eats.<br />
<br />
<b>Breakfast:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6Hk5CwL_6_HzvOHKReyoIGtsamDqw6x0nT9MKEN9mnmh-lxbNiR6nX4Hnd4Af7b02WLxB_kKHXjYNjllOkOLfLs_rLZi_s6O9B3GgxcD7oANh466YSDz01q1xqV5uCc6-y6GTjiVzw/s1600/IMG_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6Hk5CwL_6_HzvOHKReyoIGtsamDqw6x0nT9MKEN9mnmh-lxbNiR6nX4Hnd4Af7b02WLxB_kKHXjYNjllOkOLfLs_rLZi_s6O9B3GgxcD7oANh466YSDz01q1xqV5uCc6-y6GTjiVzw/s400/IMG_0082.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Whole wheat pancakes with Nutella and banana - A delicious Valentines breakfast I made on Sunday and served to my hunny in bed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_4JA6I64dAV8mZ02KsC_902wh7mlWcu9vXOMbtYrQFBP2Nad3AcTu_O6wjh3HR1Mo95Tv0YvrFyH4gl7-sf_XIMmtsh9P76qFJwlzhByORcoMztHkxoepapT7AV2s9VRKikJOgwhaw/s1600/IMG_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_4JA6I64dAV8mZ02KsC_902wh7mlWcu9vXOMbtYrQFBP2Nad3AcTu_O6wjh3HR1Mo95Tv0YvrFyH4gl7-sf_XIMmtsh9P76qFJwlzhByORcoMztHkxoepapT7AV2s9VRKikJOgwhaw/s400/IMG_0094.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Valentine's Day breakfast - <a href="http://www.playinghouseblog.com/2011/01/self-frosting-nutella-cupcakes.html">Nutella Cupcakes</a> (made vegan, of course), blackberries, a clementine, and grapes. I thought a cupcake for breakfast was appropriate for a holiday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoi5JNL0TMCH8K18uyy26N9wznNT3qCkg1BSPC7zV6Zrl41TebnXZo5UpMgfT9Qm3SesZVIlapA1fuXimi_GTkKWuTrd2gcMLjvNsvlAJ-KgfIp8Dnv4XR4dWCDvOWNTBs8runxwFIw/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoi5JNL0TMCH8K18uyy26N9wznNT3qCkg1BSPC7zV6Zrl41TebnXZo5UpMgfT9Qm3SesZVIlapA1fuXimi_GTkKWuTrd2gcMLjvNsvlAJ-KgfIp8Dnv4XR4dWCDvOWNTBs8runxwFIw/s400/IMG_0099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today's breakfast - a grapefruit and kiwi. Much lighter than the days before, but very delicious!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Lunch:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSJ33qg_mbGo_60oZM40_400qYsmMg48dEstdVclq0c_yGL2oulqotuTbAQogrnYTqpuKjQEsVJ6Sjyt8ZgFkHfqQx8BbG7hzEiQHcjaPVPhp6PIXaosAyyTumNaJUiqwLrwtroPz0w/s1600/IMG_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSJ33qg_mbGo_60oZM40_400qYsmMg48dEstdVclq0c_yGL2oulqotuTbAQogrnYTqpuKjQEsVJ6Sjyt8ZgFkHfqQx8BbG7hzEiQHcjaPVPhp6PIXaosAyyTumNaJUiqwLrwtroPz0w/s400/IMG_0084.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Veggie sub and cheddar broccoli soup from Erbert and Gerbert's. Dillon and I went to walk around downtown on Sunday since it was nice outside, so we stopped there for lunch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI4bmG9tuDLFXOamqe-nCWeUIviyOJKWV7vsMl5NFJ02q1vsTUH_DW1-SbAXXn8cB_ZHPYXeRvdUdndH5x3rvoqdNY6ENGy2wc3x68CmWLerqMSyx4VtrZDVWGJuA6eS0OGKFcnnQmA/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI4bmG9tuDLFXOamqe-nCWeUIviyOJKWV7vsMl5NFJ02q1vsTUH_DW1-SbAXXn8cB_ZHPYXeRvdUdndH5x3rvoqdNY6ENGy2wc3x68CmWLerqMSyx4VtrZDVWGJuA6eS0OGKFcnnQmA/s400/IMG_0095.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hungryhungryhippie.com/2011/01/28/log-seitan/">Log Seitan</a> with hummus and kale on a sandwich thin with carrots and grapes was lunch yesterday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3DGFFYu5E5xfrS__vkxm3hYOgZwFlfMyJHUIe75Jb4jdhYFkU7jekgaAVVJXdt-WkLzTSTugfQsySXDdKvzoSN74MlvzFy-NutgRGdsPfRi8TIK5R2XrJVJyLjFgXn_qzXS2TZ8BFhQ/s1600/IMG_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3DGFFYu5E5xfrS__vkxm3hYOgZwFlfMyJHUIe75Jb4jdhYFkU7jekgaAVVJXdt-WkLzTSTugfQsySXDdKvzoSN74MlvzFy-NutgRGdsPfRi8TIK5R2XrJVJyLjFgXn_qzXS2TZ8BFhQ/s400/IMG_0100.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pretty much the same today as yesterday - just a wrap, not a sandwich.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Dinner:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsuhwgNJ3xF3msjy51A4OHFXxVaoN-0ZUy_6BcrZ6ZuTmcMLtCetJ2PLAw7YnVoR_jTiSckJGsEHsFZaNoJL6EPFt28M1G1WInIc3jqtKHenwius6_PHaDrKH7PPbMhTBcTEqxeAOkg/s1600/IMG_0087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsuhwgNJ3xF3msjy51A4OHFXxVaoN-0ZUy_6BcrZ6ZuTmcMLtCetJ2PLAw7YnVoR_jTiSckJGsEHsFZaNoJL6EPFt28M1G1WInIc3jqtKHenwius6_PHaDrKH7PPbMhTBcTEqxeAOkg/s400/IMG_0087.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">More seitan for dinner on Sunday with roasted broccoli and brussel sprouts. I made fish for Dillon because he wasn't approving of my weird hippy food.. haha :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlO4C3jsm0XunokSQxbPSXCvau2umIHVBExD7AjQOLFLAdbL-1y5Sm_Oy6dmpt2udVZVls8_Q8U2NzaCVi0SR8KHg1nnpOuwz9ndiQdC0ZTg-6tW0cPzQkHHu-wDk6QIPb1ocHxbFk7w/s1600/IMG_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlO4C3jsm0XunokSQxbPSXCvau2umIHVBExD7AjQOLFLAdbL-1y5Sm_Oy6dmpt2udVZVls8_Q8U2NzaCVi0SR8KHg1nnpOuwz9ndiQdC0ZTg-6tW0cPzQkHHu-wDk6QIPb1ocHxbFk7w/s400/IMG_0096.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yesterday's romaine with italian dressing and more seitan with hummus. Can you tell I'm loving the seitan? It's so tasty and full of protein!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzcg4trawvwSio9bNWkxYGYNv-ZFEWIIVN22YN3YfpOXeJEKKgQBuUVwgfFJ6ZNtupiZgKlnIDPoP7S0LPiGC8K3TbkGUAp-ylioWPWqaOb1vXYkriQvv34fESBJu9g0sloLXdoGrQFQ/s1600/IMG_0101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzcg4trawvwSio9bNWkxYGYNv-ZFEWIIVN22YN3YfpOXeJEKKgQBuUVwgfFJ6ZNtupiZgKlnIDPoP7S0LPiGC8K3TbkGUAp-ylioWPWqaOb1vXYkriQvv34fESBJu9g0sloLXdoGrQFQ/s400/IMG_0101.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then tonight was a veggie burger with more roasted veggies and berries. Dillon had a turkey burger.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Other Notable Things:</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK14Wn7tz-d9WmNHB5uwmU1n_2aI9hnNzwufVq2LuSzhLYKCHJsXU-Jem-IsB5y7Wj2IuHweC_t5uFS_Vp4_-YKTkhz2Le9pnFOWTpJu_8FjA3uBBBOdGBRNCP7iRWA3DFBedHj4nyMw/s1600/IMG_0085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK14Wn7tz-d9WmNHB5uwmU1n_2aI9hnNzwufVq2LuSzhLYKCHJsXU-Jem-IsB5y7Wj2IuHweC_t5uFS_Vp4_-YKTkhz2Le9pnFOWTpJu_8FjA3uBBBOdGBRNCP7iRWA3DFBedHj4nyMw/s400/IMG_0085.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A yummy Summit Pumpkin Porter enjoyed on my Sunday out with Dillon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sh3Akf6zYEqF9H1DRROo-pcSdNL5QdchNFCcZ-Sm0gtZmfokJtrTok1FSFOYQKzaznAOQgSjJVjNSlIKX7duEo4_UIp0-A4To6CiQ8reLbRChUnPizF3KSUwMDmiEMCyLSON4x-tiA/s1600/IMG_0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5sh3Akf6zYEqF9H1DRROo-pcSdNL5QdchNFCcZ-Sm0gtZmfokJtrTok1FSFOYQKzaznAOQgSjJVjNSlIKX7duEo4_UIp0-A4To6CiQ8reLbRChUnPizF3KSUwMDmiEMCyLSON4x-tiA/s400/IMG_0088.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These delicious <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/02/03/no-bake-chocolate-macaroons/">No-Bake Chocolate Macaroons</a>. Seriously so good - and I don't even usually like coconut! They are so easy and tasty!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55DIrV19490zn1N1R3fXNzUI33cKvoM0e5jh9OwR578ni7UqYcZV7AQq1rTI_VAAIHC-Juikn-MPqqvCoB6piKNtjQ1K-1ziS8H57TAe81Ey-Qk5_klA4S6BBRdqML8G9rApyuSyJ_g/s1600/IMG_0102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55DIrV19490zn1N1R3fXNzUI33cKvoM0e5jh9OwR578ni7UqYcZV7AQq1rTI_VAAIHC-Juikn-MPqqvCoB6piKNtjQ1K-1ziS8H57TAe81Ey-Qk5_klA4S6BBRdqML8G9rApyuSyJ_g/s400/IMG_0102.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful flowers Dillon sent to my work on Valentine's Day! I got roses and chocolate at home and lilies at work - What a man! I'm a lucky lady.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see, it has been a busy few days - but a lot of fun and full of delicious food! Weight wise, I'm still doing well. I'm hoping to break 150 by then end of the month, and I only have 1.8 pounds to go before then. I hope it will happen soon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you had a wonderful weekend and Valentine's Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-78915820047985620832011-02-11T22:31:00.000-06:002011-02-11T22:31:37.709-06:00From My Hunny<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A nice surprise was waiting for me when I got home!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpMnr-EJAWJmhFMVtCyfebaBfEV3z6iIoiMdbW1dzF-B7ywwdLzHPC_MJ4lZWQfVvVfDQXPCcBlQ8Myr1eRZs6BO0FFJkYqUV_5H7nT2-v-PkevyD_Ks4OWLsBaYqmWfk0I8n0juzdA/s1600/IMG_0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpMnr-EJAWJmhFMVtCyfebaBfEV3z6iIoiMdbW1dzF-B7ywwdLzHPC_MJ4lZWQfVvVfDQXPCcBlQ8Myr1eRZs6BO0FFJkYqUV_5H7nT2-v-PkevyD_Ks4OWLsBaYqmWfk0I8n0juzdA/s400/IMG_0070.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flowers ♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGishl7ohI_o6OL9C6QIigVSmoV9NO56GcSnc94_65ZUYlbg9RJq56isL4Sn5W-cP2dCESS0PbSaFDf9V7ISt4aYio_T6kLRw48rLUR-2DGYDCaCz0s4SPsO_e-zor7I0OGOZhdXF_g/s1600/IMG_0071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGishl7ohI_o6OL9C6QIigVSmoV9NO56GcSnc94_65ZUYlbg9RJq56isL4Sn5W-cP2dCESS0PbSaFDf9V7ISt4aYio_T6kLRw48rLUR-2DGYDCaCz0s4SPsO_e-zor7I0OGOZhdXF_g/s400/IMG_0071.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What a beautiful, thoughtful gift from my hubby :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqOoKQ99fEN5odBw-KcB5patDbSVsDOdksnL9vCA0-6ajorgYdOzo-k144dwglOiLD0rS8IrBo90oESiGL6hFxVKA0DKrOWYmCp1m02hqTP0cu2jhy3rOAaFUwrMiEkNKEOsxHSupsQ/s1600/IMG_0072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqOoKQ99fEN5odBw-KcB5patDbSVsDOdksnL9vCA0-6ajorgYdOzo-k144dwglOiLD0rS8IrBo90oESiGL6hFxVKA0DKrOWYmCp1m02hqTP0cu2jhy3rOAaFUwrMiEkNKEOsxHSupsQ/s400/IMG_0072.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flowers + Chocolate - I'm such a lucky lady!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We usually celebrate Valentine's Day early to beat the rush - and, well, I'm quite impatient! We had a hot date of getting our taxes done tonight, but tomorrow night we have reservations at the Hotel Donaldson downtown for a fancy, late dinner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love Valentine's Day, and I can't wait to get all dressed up for our dinner date tomorrow. I will definitely not be worrying about calories or anything - occasions like this are meant to be savored!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But the calorie counting is going well, and I feel like I'm making progress, slowly, but surely! We'll see how this weekend goes; I'm planning on making Nutella Cupcakes and maybe another baked good. Hopefully I'll be able to use some self control :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sorry no pics of food - my eats were pretty boring today. I'll try to do more cooking this week so I'll have some new things to share.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy Weekend! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-80104743707380922392011-02-09T20:46:00.001-06:002011-02-09T20:49:17.488-06:00Clear Your MindToday was a great day off! I read, ran, went to yoga, baked and cooked an awesome meal.<br />
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I haven't gone to a yoga class in so long! Today I went to the gym and ran for 45 minutes before going to yoga so I could get in some cardio and strength today. I should really go to yoga more because its challenging and relaxing at the same time.<br />
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One thing, though - I'm terrible at clearing my mind. I know I need to just be focusing on my breath and body movement, but I can't turn my damn brain off. I have this trouble at night too when I'm trying to go to sleep.<br />
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That just means I need to work harder at it, I guess. Try to take more yoga classes and take time each day to try to clear my thoughts. I think that would be something good for me to work on.<br />
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Anyway... On to the eats!<br />
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I work up really hungry this morning, so I had the usual x2.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIl4cTefjUISJW3O29QckPgjViKs20GockNq_GQZxLH_PrKJqgIyZ9Eanay348GpaWaG1NvVAn1W8HD8BUzx2Xnf8AYEbAKjdUZ5NjZ0y0m52baCD-YnCMMY3fcHT6VnCYkpHVYWZ1A/s1600/IMG_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIl4cTefjUISJW3O29QckPgjViKs20GockNq_GQZxLH_PrKJqgIyZ9Eanay348GpaWaG1NvVAn1W8HD8BUzx2Xnf8AYEbAKjdUZ5NjZ0y0m52baCD-YnCMMY3fcHT6VnCYkpHVYWZ1A/s400/IMG_0038.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I didn't go to the gym until around 11, so I took this as a snack while I ran some errands this morning.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3xjXWdrcyd1x_fsbgTN44qPrGIlRSGSvUW4w1mQ0VbVF5q-l08fRskSigWPZkpjo_F68SQ9_oHQIE9PkYn-9joT_WPg8xI_32iARpSTvMRbDT7RhrQOx3To3_9YhsRT_VR9BxAoF9w/s1600/IMG_0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3xjXWdrcyd1x_fsbgTN44qPrGIlRSGSvUW4w1mQ0VbVF5q-l08fRskSigWPZkpjo_F68SQ9_oHQIE9PkYn-9joT_WPg8xI_32iARpSTvMRbDT7RhrQOx3To3_9YhsRT_VR9BxAoF9w/s400/IMG_0040.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Green monsters are so pretty! This had about 3 cups of spinach, 1 cup of soymilk, 1 tbsp of <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/02/how-to-peanut-butter.html">peanut butter</a>, and 1 small banana.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then I was still hungry before my workout, so I had 1/2 of a Clif Bar that I picked up at the grocery store.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIgt0ps_02sGYWvExrWz1azmrn4hI-oMtpxS4GQt_R0F8Sp8_mrD8dvb8SlpQayvteTPhXFNX0XY6XhRV_Lgw_qKob-BjSwXARDQISOk-JPfwI9zb7_COKJ8Hk_RgESlHIoQxkHESUw/s1600/IMG_0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIgt0ps_02sGYWvExrWz1azmrn4hI-oMtpxS4GQt_R0F8Sp8_mrD8dvb8SlpQayvteTPhXFNX0XY6XhRV_Lgw_qKob-BjSwXARDQISOk-JPfwI9zb7_COKJ8Hk_RgESlHIoQxkHESUw/s400/IMG_0045.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>This is a new flavor, and I liked it a lot! Of course I do love bananas, so I figured I couldn't go wrong with this.<br />
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Then after almost 2 hours of working out and 910 calories burned, I didn't feel like cooking lunch - I just wanted to eat!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDk_Ng7pbzQRODSqbDCZYHxJ2UTBPQiqGcv1VY4cTVsN357eSE_NUNIPH_NBNdMdwoK4tRn7avu1nbztg_ofSDRHO5lmiL9iN4lPdQR4kU4LMnhajcudjPJUgypzCLcUYJuQaVZiDLzw/s1600/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDk_Ng7pbzQRODSqbDCZYHxJ2UTBPQiqGcv1VY4cTVsN357eSE_NUNIPH_NBNdMdwoK4tRn7avu1nbztg_ofSDRHO5lmiL9iN4lPdQR4kU4LMnhajcudjPJUgypzCLcUYJuQaVZiDLzw/s400/IMG_0046.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Chips, salsa, carrot, and pickles. Mmmm - a very random, but tasty lunch.<br />
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Then I was on to my baking.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQKK6aU-8onQL2nRQuRxjHeBLkQzBieTUrmYVsNkO0cc3734Ux7jKOvu8YZO8_9CFPt_K9KZY09PPfIV8p4WVGV7ANMLMrKveELKBySryFYFF7N6fbcTFeHl7CHx4bISWugAFR0aiIg/s1600/IMG_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQKK6aU-8onQL2nRQuRxjHeBLkQzBieTUrmYVsNkO0cc3734Ux7jKOvu8YZO8_9CFPt_K9KZY09PPfIV8p4WVGV7ANMLMrKveELKBySryFYFF7N6fbcTFeHl7CHx4bISWugAFR0aiIg/s400/IMG_0049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Dillon loves coconut, so I wanted to make him some macaroons. I decided on this recipe for <a href="http://hungryhungryhippie.com/2010/11/18/hippie-roons/">Hippie-roons</a> from the Hungry Hungry Hippie.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-t1GYCiF-LjwzEXVnOa6EWxmgeOiZPqSVQ6mzw0lN-n5t84ZDhtezO3Wv54Z-aYs4Zi4V5IwWp6wmp5qhQ5UnLuNeMYYziyOwA-Um7H8fHwYRYEHR3fMbFTme-cyWUxrBdfH9zyrtUA/s1600/IMG_0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-t1GYCiF-LjwzEXVnOa6EWxmgeOiZPqSVQ6mzw0lN-n5t84ZDhtezO3Wv54Z-aYs4Zi4V5IwWp6wmp5qhQ5UnLuNeMYYziyOwA-Um7H8fHwYRYEHR3fMbFTme-cyWUxrBdfH9zyrtUA/s400/IMG_0052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cyaMNKxVEgFniAp1tJOwmm86jsJLNr8Wywa9UXrWhAKSHBLTTO01WaLuo4TOBSHnPStbtzE_o-SgmWVcC3vzn0CJq0vxjOGEOmpph_m0aB23kZZdZUp35aEVhtS-2-hhVJ6XU9k7Ew/s1600/IMG_0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cyaMNKxVEgFniAp1tJOwmm86jsJLNr8Wywa9UXrWhAKSHBLTTO01WaLuo4TOBSHnPStbtzE_o-SgmWVcC3vzn0CJq0vxjOGEOmpph_m0aB23kZZdZUp35aEVhtS-2-hhVJ6XU9k7Ew/s400/IMG_0055.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They turned out a little flat, but still very good. I even liked them, and I don't even usually like coconut. Dillon was a happy camper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also made a fancy dinner today - Mushroom Risotto with Caramelized Onions from <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/02/08/mushroom-risotto-with-caramelized-onions/">Oh She Glows</a>. I've never made risotto before, and it was a process. It was so worth it, though! This is an awesome recipe. The only changes I made was I used brown rice, not barley as I didn't have any, and for liquid I added 1 cup of red wine. Check out Oh She Glows for a great description on how to make it - She takes much better pictures than I do! I just love her blog.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRrwXMKYTs491w5bi6BTciCaiWEDdMBvXcY0QRGruzbvUhhCG0qID9oaGmHAyY0ct8a0BOLi7i7G4MhCvGd6oNfjTtrItLtdYrFNba5gN2kzVqVAf_cBX3jiNvk5gXFYUjJyE5PJtOA/s1600/IMG_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRrwXMKYTs491w5bi6BTciCaiWEDdMBvXcY0QRGruzbvUhhCG0qID9oaGmHAyY0ct8a0BOLi7i7G4MhCvGd6oNfjTtrItLtdYrFNba5gN2kzVqVAf_cBX3jiNvk5gXFYUjJyE5PJtOA/s400/IMG_0053.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Working on this dish for over an hour was so worth it! The mushrooms were very flavorful and the caramelized onions made the dish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And one of the best parts was the nutrition facts - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNX6ih3da5HCBrdWbkL1fArJrOHCTyJv4h7D2Kjp7N03cp7lcIa4Ry9zRIsxzgDQiJUKM7QSYNNPandjwDNP5VsQN1OO8d-xb7T_veR5DPPHpUSwNWT5butpmCuoGAVMF7t_mkNIZaKQ/s1600/Mushroom+Risotto.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNX6ih3da5HCBrdWbkL1fArJrOHCTyJv4h7D2Kjp7N03cp7lcIa4Ry9zRIsxzgDQiJUKM7QSYNNPandjwDNP5VsQN1OO8d-xb7T_veR5DPPHpUSwNWT5butpmCuoGAVMF7t_mkNIZaKQ/s400/Mushroom+Risotto.gif" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Click <a href="http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=4+onions+%2B+5+tbsp+olive+oil+%2B+4+garlic+cloves+%2B+16+oz+mushrooms+%2B+1+cup+brown+rice+%2B+1+cup+of+red+wine">here</a> for additional nutritional information.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This dish made 4 servings, so that's only about 323 calories per serving. It was so rich and filling that you would never think that calories were that low! There's quite a bit of fat, but it's good fats from the olive oil.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I enjoyed this wonderful meal with a glass of Pinot Noir.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEHbcGPLrPExdxcepsu1c9_Wdm6hGTM9DhcvTt48fdgmdV9nGFD07TiiV5QPY-cfeMzYn8WzGz5nw_6OBEKo2ngJFiVkWXr8Q6osNyAj8j7ry2VYJUS5dLvljxUwlylNpJDA3jeq6xQ/s1600/IMG_0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEHbcGPLrPExdxcepsu1c9_Wdm6hGTM9DhcvTt48fdgmdV9nGFD07TiiV5QPY-cfeMzYn8WzGz5nw_6OBEKo2ngJFiVkWXr8Q6osNyAj8j7ry2VYJUS5dLvljxUwlylNpJDA3jeq6xQ/s400/IMG_0054.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>And I'm sipping a second glass now :)<br />
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I'm sure I'll have a snack later while watching Law and Order SVU with the hubs. Popcorn maybe? We'll see.<br />
<br />
It's back to the grind tomorrow for me. Hope you had a fabulous day!<br />
<br />
Hazel says Hi!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dhFPH2egaHxxAqnEmntsgqE-f4rvwqgPDKUBYZ9_MO9Wh9ZnaHh2tByNe9WYSE1Dd3S7TuMgWXJZJeeLEY7Bu_OnyMH_a3OI0WItnjelAzPhdo6AVLtCEyLxv4wWmxldaUwYgh1iLQ/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dhFPH2egaHxxAqnEmntsgqE-f4rvwqgPDKUBYZ9_MO9Wh9ZnaHh2tByNe9WYSE1Dd3S7TuMgWXJZJeeLEY7Bu_OnyMH_a3OI0WItnjelAzPhdo6AVLtCEyLxv4wWmxldaUwYgh1iLQ/s400/IMG_0058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-15600417065280502162011-02-08T20:43:00.000-06:002011-02-08T20:43:10.532-06:00My Day in FoodToday I had another pretty good day!<div><br />
</div><div>I took a much needed rest day from the gym, and woke up without my alarm! It always feels nice to wake up on my own :)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Breakfast was the usual.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNFNfdkAsFvuZHC-MNRT4rjQ0jHk0WIqKgKtYOI0Ui9qQXVu-tZpIMlvn3zlJQew6zfwkL-P7S0zm2dsFMr9WoAKTh1KqHwX3DF6kOPdOq0c0uw4Jtc8JK6lH4OR-vmyorXZbQLuYCA/s1600/IMG_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNFNfdkAsFvuZHC-MNRT4rjQ0jHk0WIqKgKtYOI0Ui9qQXVu-tZpIMlvn3zlJQew6zfwkL-P7S0zm2dsFMr9WoAKTh1KqHwX3DF6kOPdOq0c0uw4Jtc8JK6lH4OR-vmyorXZbQLuYCA/s400/IMG_0015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ezekiel bread with almond butter, banana, and cinnamon. Served with hot lemon water. I haven't had any coffee in almost a week! Not that I think anything is wrong with coffee, but I know I had been over-doing it with the caffeine. Hot lemon water is so refreshing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I enjoyed this while having some me time, blogging, reading, getting ready for work, etc..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then I had my first snack at work.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgnVUqS9uix8EfSs7fgVBwwbcRIDTN7bYmJ-J4jwS2YyhnpFD6MxyOF6m34mdN1pexGp1dl87t6Z5HvxsxKaKMh6LyvWo-Ub_O_azK7aXGJ6TtO_SmCSXKy-qf-Ixon8EYpBjUukSLQ/s1600/IMG_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgnVUqS9uix8EfSs7fgVBwwbcRIDTN7bYmJ-J4jwS2YyhnpFD6MxyOF6m34mdN1pexGp1dl87t6Z5HvxsxKaKMh6LyvWo-Ub_O_azK7aXGJ6TtO_SmCSXKy-qf-Ixon8EYpBjUukSLQ/s400/IMG_0024.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div>An organic apple and 12 almonds - which is half a serving. I eat a nut + fruit combo pretty much every work day for a snack. It's a great carb/fat combo that helps keep me satisfied. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Then before I knew it - It was lunchtime!</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99wnmQKJ20-70Lt9aHDPhOPf0UTeiifhIJED5eS8rUhYuPClx8-BVTt6Vpj34Q_q3GbaavqL5Kb0w9-XNCBzx3EUOkMZi_nvwNHzKIt4Otnu0KLxT4VHTODDS0pvO9yL9rGDmdTBRdg/s1600/IMG_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99wnmQKJ20-70Lt9aHDPhOPf0UTeiifhIJED5eS8rUhYuPClx8-BVTt6Vpj34Q_q3GbaavqL5Kb0w9-XNCBzx3EUOkMZi_nvwNHzKIt4Otnu0KLxT4VHTODDS0pvO9yL9rGDmdTBRdg/s400/IMG_0025.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 cups of romaine, 2 tbsp of light zesty italian dressing, 2 carrots, another apple, and a clementine. Lots of delicious raw food!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 hours later I had my last break and another snack.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-4NUbgO9-Wjuy7nXRX7itrqm87aqPAhJ1rYKMx2YgqA1xQ2RuMGMGcE3Gdzq-b0Q8xSqTkg8P-uZfmccA7hsf8WBr7KCYo15bMufAIpNIQghlXIuZOGwPacer8ubgQ8rXq8xc189PQ/s1600/IMG_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-4NUbgO9-Wjuy7nXRX7itrqm87aqPAhJ1rYKMx2YgqA1xQ2RuMGMGcE3Gdzq-b0Q8xSqTkg8P-uZfmccA7hsf8WBr7KCYo15bMufAIpNIQghlXIuZOGwPacer8ubgQ8rXq8xc189PQ/s400/IMG_0027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another clementine with the other 1/2 serving of almonds. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was so sunny outside!! I always pick the spot in the break room that's in the sun when I can. I miss the sun! It's been such a long winter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div>After I got home I was feeling lazy, so diner was pretty uninspiring.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeip7kHVXt6_402O8Pw-MwJa6wUq0Wl0Sq5mh-iTfH7SolPcOjwS_lwT4DWSfVQZERk8AzaEbljj9e3PxMISlAVNYM2lwpZH0tZx_-8rtVq93MERa2pFkJcxNDIE29WXvOFGJ1mo2nA/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeip7kHVXt6_402O8Pw-MwJa6wUq0Wl0Sq5mh-iTfH7SolPcOjwS_lwT4DWSfVQZERk8AzaEbljj9e3PxMISlAVNYM2lwpZH0tZx_-8rtVq93MERa2pFkJcxNDIE29WXvOFGJ1mo2nA/s400/IMG_0028.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A sandwich thin with 1 tbsp almond butter and 1 tbsp jam, some tortilla chips, and salsa (shared with Dillon, of course)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then I wanted something sweet - Banana Ice Cream!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglHohFwm_7Rjjk6649-MW8fTkV0htGH_2CjzDb-NS4Ly2vl67bkwRgfaBet0_TnQ5wSQ9ND4a_XOuvmbS81W1ghreRSifb0bgJK4kHPCIEZK0s5nsqJLG7yW6tLv0MVabPiZQT_1Xuw/s1600/IMG_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglHohFwm_7Rjjk6649-MW8fTkV0htGH_2CjzDb-NS4Ly2vl67bkwRgfaBet0_TnQ5wSQ9ND4a_XOuvmbS81W1ghreRSifb0bgJK4kHPCIEZK0s5nsqJLG7yW6tLv0MVabPiZQT_1Xuw/s400/IMG_0036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div>1.5 frozen bananas, 1 tsp cocoa powder, and a splash of soymilk. Process until smooth!</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9mQcn5yHju6OYt7LqxkJD_Xep7SZEgjvwGJxQJWyGZ_zt8GEL7a9MJceI_1xfj18zR_t-49yXy-GKpBliTzcX9wWquBrQla4_D_oIKvMtnoNrY0jVueU5aOeyhS6ra2SF5-rCuAXu4Q/s1600/IMG_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9mQcn5yHju6OYt7LqxkJD_Xep7SZEgjvwGJxQJWyGZ_zt8GEL7a9MJceI_1xfj18zR_t-49yXy-GKpBliTzcX9wWquBrQla4_D_oIKvMtnoNrY0jVueU5aOeyhS6ra2SF5-rCuAXu4Q/s400/IMG_0037.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's just like soft-serve! And only 100 calories - so much healthier and cheaper!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Calories consumed today: 1255 - I may end up having another small snack during Parenthood. We'll see if I get hungry again, but overall, a good food day for no workout!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Parenthood is almost on, so I'd better wrap this up. I'm loving my iPhone for taking these pictures. It's so easy. I just can't get enough of it :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have tomorrow off (Woo!) because I have training on Saturday, and I already have a list of things I want to get done. It should be a good, productive day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope you had a great day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div><div><br />
</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-87301733301510037142011-02-08T08:33:00.001-06:002011-02-08T08:33:59.295-06:00How To: Peanut ButterGood Morning!<br />
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The last time I made peanut butter I took a bunch of pictures to share with you! It took me awhile, but here's how you make fresh peanut butter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiO3gJPOCSHfze2UNiAYZgS6fluvyPToEzm_vbrabLqKuC0cpbxD0cPvgYxdL_b9x5kqqbzfNN1Lg1CH_lr7Pe8zDM1i05iSs8WXaRcOTGsVFHPUZ9VVBpL7rJMmJXxxd_2vnNmixNqA/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiO3gJPOCSHfze2UNiAYZgS6fluvyPToEzm_vbrabLqKuC0cpbxD0cPvgYxdL_b9x5kqqbzfNN1Lg1CH_lr7Pe8zDM1i05iSs8WXaRcOTGsVFHPUZ9VVBpL7rJMmJXxxd_2vnNmixNqA/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Put about 1.5 cups of roasted, unsalted peanuts into a food processor. I buy them from the bulk section of my grocery store.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYG4lD76IsMU5UcfyBX6ychiXw-b9tBqffVzqRRKhiux144bDOHnQoZJkajvYDFvWH1pbSyQ0b0wc4_x7EHkkkZd7Yez-KwV2JiIa9Qpz10uxmvUcL3ciMKBgAOgGNI5NEz1qM9WsWrw/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYG4lD76IsMU5UcfyBX6ychiXw-b9tBqffVzqRRKhiux144bDOHnQoZJkajvYDFvWH1pbSyQ0b0wc4_x7EHkkkZd7Yez-KwV2JiIa9Qpz10uxmvUcL3ciMKBgAOgGNI5NEz1qM9WsWrw/s400/DSC_0002.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Start to blend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xdJlMR-K6QS9ScjosI4ngXU8Wy8j8ZB9QvG_lg7mCJEfk13lbQAglPUOs2GXk_gvkdZjI_XtTXpi8z6GGKrQRMPaxbtS19OWD78HlnsXhYVC-0ScRPdrDzaavKx9xXH30AwyLXyxBA/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xdJlMR-K6QS9ScjosI4ngXU8Wy8j8ZB9QvG_lg7mCJEfk13lbQAglPUOs2GXk_gvkdZjI_XtTXpi8z6GGKrQRMPaxbtS19OWD78HlnsXhYVC-0ScRPdrDzaavKx9xXH30AwyLXyxBA/s400/DSC_0003.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It will start getting chunky - keep blending.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVJRNe01azKaxZkAKYMlQY90i4CkiXpPhgYCIA6tF4rszxb_sYXbZLg0UIyLo1EbehWpros82VTgdfv5H_XfvrWzh9BbsKunrXo792wJkVG4ugxdW8h3m4xjxr5OKVeeSeRGGVtPjhQ/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVJRNe01azKaxZkAKYMlQY90i4CkiXpPhgYCIA6tF4rszxb_sYXbZLg0UIyLo1EbehWpros82VTgdfv5H_XfvrWzh9BbsKunrXo792wJkVG4ugxdW8h3m4xjxr5OKVeeSeRGGVtPjhQ/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scrape the sides as needed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61sSCP0cPALQnGAKZ57tlq-n28N2zJmMgRlQweS5JIh1vJFd4hdlXLJccFwjD66bMwK13Ve5TU_PGk9AZ-KP9L4zBvCRoxASeRa2c7VB3ywt4U9VUus7Z8PyjZqZ6ZNJ4VRAJFzEnqA/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61sSCP0cPALQnGAKZ57tlq-n28N2zJmMgRlQweS5JIh1vJFd4hdlXLJccFwjD66bMwK13Ve5TU_PGk9AZ-KP9L4zBvCRoxASeRa2c7VB3ywt4U9VUus7Z8PyjZqZ6ZNJ4VRAJFzEnqA/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It forms into this big clump of peanuts - that's good! You're almost there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbMaDl9yLIH5in54btqV3HI59C7raIAk9JrChnmX_cSrPF4MUJ7jdZf1WxtTGuZI2wCUzlYUAHBAD9oikld8MmEpbNsMQVrzCGIXCnRwk4MlaJGBwegZGIoV2CAsBXB0d_u9tMbzq2A/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbMaDl9yLIH5in54btqV3HI59C7raIAk9JrChnmX_cSrPF4MUJ7jdZf1WxtTGuZI2wCUzlYUAHBAD9oikld8MmEpbNsMQVrzCGIXCnRwk4MlaJGBwegZGIoV2CAsBXB0d_u9tMbzq2A/s400/DSC_0006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Keep blending - you can see it's getting smooth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3QhcTLpUPV83VVhNv89iNr-Y1tiKeUIplkBwD3XOeyUXdnFRqceh_3OG-GQvLfFe94hkeNtKHD4_Xp-5vvwGAb7XOG6QBKiV3Ub_H6Qcl8AGP23h2W9iIItYbxpKn24lLIJ7l1XDDA/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3QhcTLpUPV83VVhNv89iNr-Y1tiKeUIplkBwD3XOeyUXdnFRqceh_3OG-GQvLfFe94hkeNtKHD4_Xp-5vvwGAb7XOG6QBKiV3Ub_H6Qcl8AGP23h2W9iIItYbxpKn24lLIJ7l1XDDA/s400/DSC_0007.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Smooth!! You can stop it to add a pinch of salt here if you like, and blend a bit more.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xWlFCzsPIn1rf3qEzY0ihFG2ySraYO28BIFq5X-BbN_Jv7HDtok-CF40LR-lTEwmmgZ6lsnJSZIIn-rUqqMEtVXJLCwG7svl9FKFN9EsXj992W3_z24itJyUkpHvvSUKU4a-MQ-lNw/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xWlFCzsPIn1rf3qEzY0ihFG2ySraYO28BIFq5X-BbN_Jv7HDtok-CF40LR-lTEwmmgZ6lsnJSZIIn-rUqqMEtVXJLCwG7svl9FKFN9EsXj992W3_z24itJyUkpHvvSUKU4a-MQ-lNw/s400/DSC_0008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All done!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDZgmamVTRMl6uAEVOsKYjya3U1vXZP-NZK_2QMbB13RZlZLutC1q1B3NY6v1Ntmd9hdzUrx415TExTsuhBfI0wZhAfQsaHOYuM3o5AifQEFE_4GaxWDP59Np1TESH8c72nikyNppvg/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDZgmamVTRMl6uAEVOsKYjya3U1vXZP-NZK_2QMbB13RZlZLutC1q1B3NY6v1Ntmd9hdzUrx415TExTsuhBfI0wZhAfQsaHOYuM3o5AifQEFE_4GaxWDP59Np1TESH8c72nikyNppvg/s400/DSC_0011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Make sure to keep blending until it gets nice and drippy like this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFk4H30JuGq-FZ49HllHJ2-TUF0xKFqkxUn48J9N2Xbs_AIP73HRG9X82eysBdI-6voTVSLgMlIeSYHJTMd3zph2doB3lCbtoFec8UznQ3lugWNcohOv0rnHeHfHP4jThOwaWFuCQzw/s1600/DSC_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFk4H30JuGq-FZ49HllHJ2-TUF0xKFqkxUn48J9N2Xbs_AIP73HRG9X82eysBdI-6voTVSLgMlIeSYHJTMd3zph2doB3lCbtoFec8UznQ3lugWNcohOv0rnHeHfHP4jThOwaWFuCQzw/s400/DSC_0016.jpg" width="330" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then put in a jar and in your refrigerator. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See? It's so easy. With peanuts, this whole process only take about 5-8 minutes. With almonds, it takes more like 12-15 minutes to get smooth, but it's the same process. You just need a bit more patience with almonds. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is way cheaper than buying natural peanut butter and a lot less wasteful! Plus, fresh anything is better than the alternative! I haven't bought a jar of nut butter since I started making my own. I make a batch every Sunday because we usually go through a whole batch each week! I'm a nut-butter-aholic, what can I say ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you later tonight for a recap of my day - Hope you make some nut butter!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-67327295078998265092011-02-07T20:58:00.000-06:002011-02-07T20:58:30.507-06:00Good Day!Its nice to start out the week with a good day!<br />
<br />
I had a great run and lifting session this morning.<br />
<br />
I was able to keep my eating well under control - I wasn't very hungry very much.<br />
<br />
Work was pretty mellow.<br />
<br />
I ate a BUNCH of fruit! 2 bananas, 3 clementines, 2 apples.... yum!<br />
<br />
I got my iPhone!!! My wonderful hubby picked it up from our apartment office and set it all up for me.<br />
<br />
The one little snag in the day was that I lost my car key - hopefully I'll find it at work tomorrow. Good thing is that we only like about 2 blocks from work, so Dillon was able to bring me my spare really quickly!<br />
<br />
And I made a fabulous dinner!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqrqbrBbX9aU7cXl3xaWD0gSQ5E4cAnwayUiilucueInOBpi2JG1-iWTesgcn822ZzKXYKMuyc-wWMd1VS5_8v4O7LegtpQhRTcKVR6UfqZufyK7iMy4t20IVwX5-8GmvCcbxtv3c4g/s1600/IMG_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZqrqbrBbX9aU7cXl3xaWD0gSQ5E4cAnwayUiilucueInOBpi2JG1-iWTesgcn822ZzKXYKMuyc-wWMd1VS5_8v4O7LegtpQhRTcKVR6UfqZufyK7iMy4t20IVwX5-8GmvCcbxtv3c4g/s400/IMG_0008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A delicious strifry! Photo taken from my iPhone.. not bad, eh?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5nVy3FdS7ldZCVWqlgpvwcxZ8f2ap72s5mlxjNLD5WJrsyn6OxYbPehR-bU3jzuM-gtZn0BKxO723D-Zm11mwKhC-1g5IPKTV3yeGWQhejxaxw03ank_wYmOT_zU0orRnS4tXa7t_Q/s1600/IMG_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5nVy3FdS7ldZCVWqlgpvwcxZ8f2ap72s5mlxjNLD5WJrsyn6OxYbPehR-bU3jzuM-gtZn0BKxO723D-Zm11mwKhC-1g5IPKTV3yeGWQhejxaxw03ank_wYmOT_zU0orRnS4tXa7t_Q/s400/IMG_0009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Serving it up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjvexNgb_A0gFHQBWtx2kYSlN7T7Htk0ZmphndHpNI98-zfeeCai6X94sAJ4LF0g2wrCqD442Z4A6-oWOedvlAe-dP-OXODIfGJYbrJgZtYELOrHeCRucAZ_Am58zQb-9pyRYzKllsg/s1600/IMG_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjvexNgb_A0gFHQBWtx2kYSlN7T7Htk0ZmphndHpNI98-zfeeCai6X94sAJ4LF0g2wrCqD442Z4A6-oWOedvlAe-dP-OXODIfGJYbrJgZtYELOrHeCRucAZ_Am58zQb-9pyRYzKllsg/s400/IMG_0011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Served over 1 cup of brown rice. So satisfying.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dillon found this cool thing you can do with <a href="http://www.wolframalpha.com/">WolframAlpha</a>. Just add your ingredients with "+" signs in between them, and you get this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtAwa0K-1_cpSJjI8R6ygLH8dXoaMviQ9xQYlRmcStQo61f2vCmO-XuH5Bi4deCyhC-_32BQ1rvnsKPFRk2r_Z2y19dIetmWCDNvj1FJdjssncZCNCPeQ2kN1DX24AM5DLPv49YUhvlQ/s1600/wolframalpha-20110207204054479.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtAwa0K-1_cpSJjI8R6ygLH8dXoaMviQ9xQYlRmcStQo61f2vCmO-XuH5Bi4deCyhC-_32BQ1rvnsKPFRk2r_Z2y19dIetmWCDNvj1FJdjssncZCNCPeQ2kN1DX24AM5DLPv49YUhvlQ/s400/wolframalpha-20110207204054479.gif" width="335" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nutrition facts! This made 3 servings, so 442 calories per serving... and you get all the great vitamin values and such.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dillon always discovers cool things like this - I should really listen to him more!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well with that, I'm going to go have him teach me more about my new phone!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Au revior!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-49770279857988405302011-02-07T08:41:00.000-06:002011-02-07T08:41:21.886-06:00Yesterday...The Packers won!!! ... And I over-did it food wise.<br />
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Remember when I said we were having trouble getting reception from Fox? Well not even 5 minutes into the game we lost it. The only way it would come in is if it was propped up strangely and I kneeled or stood in a certain place.<br />
<br />
Well that was not going to work, so we quickly walked over to one of our favorite bar and grills - Granite City, to watch the game. Luckily it was really slow there, and we had a good view of the game. Of course we ordered some food and drinks, even though we'd already had a couple drinks at home and had some of the Spinach Artichoke Dip I was excited about - which was very good!<br />
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3 hours, 1 football game, a couple soft pretzels, more beer, and half a cookie dessert later - I'm too full, and I knew I over-did it.<br />
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But you know what? That's ok. Its taken me so long to not feel guilty over times like that, but really - its ok.<br />
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I had a wonderful time with my husband, and indulged in some foods I don't normally eat. I'm human :) I did go over on calories (obviously..), but I used that as motivation to have a great workout today! I'm up on the scale a bit, but that's due to bloating, not real weight gain. It would be very difficult to gain 3 pounds in one day! I'm sure the bloat will go away in the next few days as I focus again on fueling my body with whole foods.<br />
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I guess the point of this post is to say that its ok to indulge sometimes; its not something to feel guilty about! I try to live by doing things that make me happy, and outings like this are fun! Now we'll always have good memories about this Superbowl to look back on.<br />
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Sorry there was no pictures today, hopefully tomorrow because today is iPhone day!! My iPhone will be delivered by 3pm today, so expect more meal pictures to come soon. I'm so excited :)<br />
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Have a great Monday!<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-88402357619511141992011-02-06T15:25:00.000-06:002011-02-06T15:25:39.241-06:00Superbowl Sunday!Go Packers!!!<br />
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I can't wait for the Superbowl, and especially to eat this <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/02/05/spinach-artichoke-dip-party-menu-planning/">Spinach Artichoke Dip</a> form Oh She Glows. It's dairy free and looks soo good! I can't wait to make it in an hour or so.<br />
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We're currently watching the Pre-Game show, mostly because we just spent like 30 minutes trying to get our antenna to pick up Fox, so now we don't want to change it! I hope it stays.. I really don't want to go to the bars because they'll be super packed, and I want to eat my dip!<br />
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Yesterday was a good day. Work was slow; my eats were good. I also had a great run/bike workout again in the morning. I won't do a huge recap, but here are my numbers.<br />
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Calories Consumed: 1575<br />
Calories Burned: 550<br />
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Still kind of on the low side for net calories, but I was listening to my body and it didn't tell me to eat more. I was satisfied at that. I'm sure that means one of these days my body will want more - and I'll honor that :)<br />
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Some food pics over the last day or so ~<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrQbXn5bE5Nsqw-6Tc-8zdfRep1n9T7uiQN2ksyYqpqdXbIEjfD45TOD-dARUhIMESOeeI83nIwlwsN1cU4HdtuIwxWbaFzIYFd19H2OBBzgSaKUt9ypknYKQQcn9HEdj5a1d-P9jeQ/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrQbXn5bE5Nsqw-6Tc-8zdfRep1n9T7uiQN2ksyYqpqdXbIEjfD45TOD-dARUhIMESOeeI83nIwlwsN1cU4HdtuIwxWbaFzIYFd19H2OBBzgSaKUt9ypknYKQQcn9HEdj5a1d-P9jeQ/s400/DSC_0009.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A Green Monster - though its not very green because I added blueberries. I had a similar one this morning. Eaten post workout both times.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had hummus, carrots, and pretzels for lunch yesterday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3_63J6xqcD0ZAc9RNcBO-rplkbrsQHLdofIsl45TR_WduVPGjma_dd0OQQZIms0StR-bFE9_whE4G_eqYOWq2fmnTI8f-PYe7R84G3pEnyC0YtstsdiDbq7E2bP2KjLv43QBG9v97w/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3_63J6xqcD0ZAc9RNcBO-rplkbrsQHLdofIsl45TR_WduVPGjma_dd0OQQZIms0StR-bFE9_whE4G_eqYOWq2fmnTI8f-PYe7R84G3pEnyC0YtstsdiDbq7E2bP2KjLv43QBG9v97w/s400/DSC_0002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night after work I enjoyed this delicious sandwich. I vegan grilled "cheese" - with Daiya vegan cheddar. My favorite kind of vegan cheese; you can hardly tell a difference!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveah7A-9a_6FzWIVUIz_o5XlHkIhPPqRf9fOaFD22rpWccsZhFFDbEChezb2i2hXRM4_vvle6IafzKjiIkcXwumg8rzwpzCTx67aAdG4YokJAM3k3qF27Y2apNIeF5nwwA08zTpj03Q/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveah7A-9a_6FzWIVUIz_o5XlHkIhPPqRf9fOaFD22rpWccsZhFFDbEChezb2i2hXRM4_vvle6IafzKjiIkcXwumg8rzwpzCTx67aAdG4YokJAM3k3qF27Y2apNIeF5nwwA08zTpj03Q/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was lunch today - Gardein Seven Grain Crispy Tenders, roasted broccoli, and Bell's Cherry Porter. All of this was so good! We don't eat meat substitues very often because they're still not very healthy, but once and awhile it's a nice treat. Dillon said you could definitely fool people into thinking they were real chicken strips. As for the Cherry Porter, it is very rich and cherry-ful - tasty, indeed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well I need to finish my food prep for the week and get going on my dip! Soon I'll be sipping some Rogue Chocolate Stout, eating spinach dip, and watching Packer football. I love Sundays :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope you have a fun evening!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-22264264357430321632011-02-05T10:05:00.000-06:002011-02-05T10:05:43.396-06:00Happy SaturdayHello!<br />
<br />
I hope your work week ended well. I had yesterday off from work, but I have to go in today. Oh well, I was very productive yesterday!<br />
<br />
I went for an hour long run outside! It was a lovely 28° and sunny - I had forgotten how much running outside is much better than on the treadmill. I can't wait for spring!<br />
<br />
I did other random errands and cleaning, and then Dillon and I went to our favorite beer place, JL Beers. Even though I'm trying to lose weight, I was able to plan for this outing, and I enjoyed 2 beers and shared an order of their homemade chip with Dillon. I'm a firm believer that I shouldn't have to give up stuff like that because I really enjoy it! I just need to work it into my plan, so I'm not going overboard.<br />
<br />
A brief recap of some of my eats yesterday:<br />
<br />
Calories consumed: 1670<br />
Caloried burned: 785<br />
<br />
Breakfast was the usual, toast, banana, and nut butter. - 285 calories<br />
<br />
During my errand running, I picked up one of these bars to hold me over until lunchtime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7vU8f_1wRbUy_vl47ZIEr9G3XAa6fWhnfx18XulQP-x2yRR7Z94XUuWyW-OE4kAfLUEVwNdPWU_Cp7TIFDojeXmderO2W0SRhxjUEBHngMpslEDUNvI3pNONX9hA-GQ4rra3KeSTVXA/s1600/hero_macrobar_peanutpro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7vU8f_1wRbUy_vl47ZIEr9G3XAa6fWhnfx18XulQP-x2yRR7Z94XUuWyW-OE4kAfLUEVwNdPWU_Cp7TIFDojeXmderO2W0SRhxjUEBHngMpslEDUNvI3pNONX9hA-GQ4rra3KeSTVXA/s320/hero_macrobar_peanutpro.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think this might be my new favorite bar! I don't like to eat too many bars like this because they are pretty high in sugar, but this one was quite delicious. It had 230 calories and 13 grams of protein! A good way to refuel my muscles after my run.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then I had a light late lunch -</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4ZL5tWWOX0v1tgbsPqHp6M-e74JMnEFA3U54XZ53suNeZ_PEcDT2-nkVsHB850u8aR2mhgoM8cbEGiuwkXAD1oTcH8zEvYB0vkcKYj9nN8s-lr6yaD7v6-24eC4uajxIIYcF8G-Vsw/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4ZL5tWWOX0v1tgbsPqHp6M-e74JMnEFA3U54XZ53suNeZ_PEcDT2-nkVsHB850u8aR2mhgoM8cbEGiuwkXAD1oTcH8zEvYB0vkcKYj9nN8s-lr6yaD7v6-24eC4uajxIIYcF8G-Vsw/s400/DSC_0006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Romaine with 2 tbsp of light zesty Italian dressing, Ezekiel bread with <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-favorite-hummus.html">hummus</a>, and 2 tbsp of dried cranberries for something sweet. - 237 calories</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then Dillon and I went to JL; I didn't take any pictures, though we talked about how when I get my iPhone (hopefully on Monday!!), I'll most likely take many more pictures because the camera is very good. There with 1 tall beer, Breckenridge Vanilla Porter, and 1 pint of Honey Weiss, along with about half an order of some homemade chips, I calculated it was about 753 calories. Not very healthy ones, but we had fun, and that's what's important!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Afterwards, we came home and watched <i>The Social Network</i> and shared an apple and some popcorn. Good movie - different than I expected, but it was entertaining. That snack was about 165 calories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was kind of on the low side for net calories yesterday, but I wasn't that hungry. I'm sure I'll make it up somewhere along the line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On a very happy note, my weight went from 155.8 on Thursday to 152.4 today :) I know weight fluctuates quite a bit, but I'm much happier with 152. I've never gotten any lower than that, so hopefully soon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Time to get ready for work once again! I can't wait for tomorrow for the Superbowl! Go Packers :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-15140256179289260362011-02-03T21:35:00.000-06:002011-02-03T21:35:37.660-06:00RecapToday was a good day! I felt better after declaring my new focus, and now I have something to really keep me accountable :)<br />
<br />
My food intake today was great! 1395 calories and no workout<br />
<br />
I didn't feel very hungry at all as I had planned out my snacks in advance so I didn't feel deprived.<br />
<br />
Here's what I ate today:<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Breakfast</b> - 285 calories<br />
1 slice of Ezekiel bread<br />
1 tbsp peanut butter<br />
1 banana<br />
cinnamon<br />
<br />
<b>Snack</b> - 140 calories<br />
12 raw almonds<br />
1 small apple<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lunch</b> - 240 calories<br />
1 cup romaine<br />
1 cup spinach<br />
2 tbsp light zesty italian dressing<br />
2 carrots<br />
1/4 cup <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-favorite-hummus.html">hummus</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Snack</b> - 140 calories<br />
12 raw almonds<br />
1 small apple<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Dinner</b> - 428 calories<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYzJWhf6O_M5sWcLRgFdMPu-DSHTHWWW8lHh2hd9WRR8V4QTaI6l642sphMVZaebF3DPppmC3C8kMgT4rSTFN0WiODfUCeIWXdfkJYsqNjjFN5oD4pkPdQIHBDGqHj3O3Q76yHwFq2g/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYzJWhf6O_M5sWcLRgFdMPu-DSHTHWWW8lHh2hd9WRR8V4QTaI6l642sphMVZaebF3DPppmC3C8kMgT4rSTFN0WiODfUCeIWXdfkJYsqNjjFN5oD4pkPdQIHBDGqHj3O3Q76yHwFq2g/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Amy's All-American Veggie Burger</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 sweet potato - sprayed with a bit of olive oil, sprinkled with salt and pepper, and baked at 425° for about 25 minutes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">organic ketchup</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 slice of Ezekiel bread, spinach, onion, and green pepper</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">medjool date (not pictured), for dessert :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Evening Snack</b> - 162 calories</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 packet of Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup of un-sweetened soymilk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like to eat a little bit every few hours, which I think really helps! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all today I feel like I did well. I drank tea this morning instead of coffee, and also enjoyed some cups of hot water with lemon - which is surprisingly refreshing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well I'm off to continue reading <i>Skinny Bitch. </i>I just started it today, and I'm loving it so far!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have a good night :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div><br />
<br />
P.S. I plan to have more pictures with these re-caps soon - things are still in transition!The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-63937322199010872592011-02-03T07:40:00.000-06:002011-02-03T07:40:17.320-06:00New FocusTruth? I've been struggling.<br />
<br />
With weight, that is. I've been gaining and losing the same 5 pounds for over 6 months now, and I'm sick of it. I hate complaining about something, and then not doing something to change it. So here it is, I'm going to start tracking calories to lose weight.<br />
<br />
My goal: 10 pounds by my 22nd birthday - March 30th<br />
<br />
Sounds do-able right? It would take me to the lowest weight that I can remember being - 145 pounds. I know ladies shouldn't share their weights, but I'm not ashamed of it! I've come so far, and just have a little more to go until I'll feel truly comfortable. Ideally, I'd like to be at 140 because that would put me right in the "healthy" BMI range, but we'll see how 145 feels.<br />
<br />
10 pounds seems like so little compared to the 40 or so I've already lost, but it seems like it gets harder the closer you get to that goal.<br />
<br />
Now I HATE counting calories. I only did it sporadically when I lost the first chunk of weight, but I'm feeling like I need some help and accountability this time around. I need to document what I'm eating so I don't graze throughout the day as much as I do now.<br />
<br />
Pretty soon - as in a week! - I'll have my new iPhone, and I think it will really help me stay accountable because its something I'm going to want to use all the time anyway, so I can use it to track calories as well as take some pictures of what I'm eating to share here.<br />
<br />
I don't want this blog to turn into a weightloss blog, but right now I need write about my journey, and this is going to be my new focus. I really find taking pictures of everything I eat to be quite tedious, but it might help for awhile. Of course I'm still going to be sharing recipes, meal plans, and such - I'll probably just be adding in longer day recaps of how my eating and working out went.<br />
<br />
It's going to take some getting used to, so expect to see some changes throughout the next week or so as to what I'm writing about. I really want to get rid of these last 10 pounds before summer and racing season.... so lets do this!!<br />
<br />
It's all about eating quality foods and moving more. Both of which I do, but I just tend to eat a bit too much of the good foods, and my workout habits have been improving a lot over the last month or so.<br />
<br />
My calorie goal is going to be about 1400/day - adding in about 200-250 on workout days, and a bit more if its a long run day. I don't want to be starving myself - my body needs fuel!<br />
<br />
And that's what food should be - fuel. Not something that helps you when you're bored or comforts you when you're frustrated. That's part of my issue, and I know I'll always have some trouble with that. But that's ok - It's a journey, and for this part I'm determined to break some of those bad habits!<br />
<br />
Enough rambling! I'll try to check in tonight with how today went.<br />
<br />
I hope you have a good day! It's almost Friday :)<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-33676585089897356642011-02-01T08:39:00.000-06:002011-02-01T08:39:12.164-06:00Green MonsterSound Scary?<br />
<br />
Its not - it is very delicious and nutritious!<br />
<br />
Since I got my VitaMix, I've found a new appreciation for this fun drink.<br />
<br />
Here is an oldie, but a goodie, combination.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB48P6idGXLVOo1bJ35yYRK-LMUtHXXGJbS0R4RnNozKEa-hethir7rQ-4edV2fXM0db8H5pGOqEs0wuQwOX3O6VW2ndTA1kcn6JkPHb_VjB8aFYAFMYDpdk-uOVfIOAL61sYzDECDw/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB48P6idGXLVOo1bJ35yYRK-LMUtHXXGJbS0R4RnNozKEa-hethir7rQ-4edV2fXM0db8H5pGOqEs0wuQwOX3O6VW2ndTA1kcn6JkPHb_VjB8aFYAFMYDpdk-uOVfIOAL61sYzDECDw/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
1 cup unsweetened soymilk, 1 frozen banana - I always have frozen bananas because I throw any that are getting too ripe in the freezer for later - 1 tbsp of peanut butter - homemade, recipe coming soon - 1 tbsp ground flax, 2 large handfulls of spinach.<br />
<br />
Put all ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth ~ 1-2 minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr2b1vvfImkIY9GQzQWLFqFZ2p-KrVGl6tJS8BFMzo9EW3ukJDTYuoL2KyyH6Ixte6b7r8tswdxanm_0TNKkmAafSS0oV9Zgzl_Kaa5XLTqIS0zBB-qIE8IfF6xJ8cJBTM2vE89X_Cg/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgr2b1vvfImkIY9GQzQWLFqFZ2p-KrVGl6tJS8BFMzo9EW3ukJDTYuoL2KyyH6Ixte6b7r8tswdxanm_0TNKkmAafSS0oV9Zgzl_Kaa5XLTqIS0zBB-qIE8IfF6xJ8cJBTM2vE89X_Cg/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Mmmm, green goodness! It looks strange, but its so delicious, and there are so many different ingredients you could use! Its fun to experiment, and its especially a great post-workout drink!<br />
<br />
Speaking of workouts, my last few have been especially awesome! I'm beginning to notice improvements in my running, especially in regards to speed. Its awesome to finally be able to see a difference!<br />
<br />
I've also been really enjoying using the stationary bike after I run. Today, for example, I ran for 30 minutes and then rode the bike for 20. I love the extra cardio without all the impact. And, well, I really miss riding my bike! I can't wait for Spring; I'm so over Winter.<br />
<br />
Well I must go get ready for work. Have a great day!<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-76080397225698256292011-01-30T16:17:00.000-06:002011-01-30T16:17:49.077-06:00My Baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZhTuBP8NcjRps8Fnur-tBhwsgYivc2QFLvuqA6K1sTheQ3uqVrSNzyaqdYpwZxRRollqGRjNGkYgv-Gn9Fm9Ai_4PPjuuCLlIUAlPW23UBbiu3e7-iNrA36dmTgb6gPqp6jx8FQVNA/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZhTuBP8NcjRps8Fnur-tBhwsgYivc2QFLvuqA6K1sTheQ3uqVrSNzyaqdYpwZxRRollqGRjNGkYgv-Gn9Fm9Ai_4PPjuuCLlIUAlPW23UBbiu3e7-iNrA36dmTgb6gPqp6jx8FQVNA/s400/DSC_0022.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I can't believe I now own one of these!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27ow9TRQ2hbU1aF0WE6kik7tHSc44z1SK09pIVOsg4BvghLJxHYEcFqvfnDDNlGqeVOPO1-ZqGIWh_To42J7Oc4aK2TtmqxHk-VIjKY2Syl7Av9YMEXJw_NnHt2dXKMfrbBW-r2uF_Q/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27ow9TRQ2hbU1aF0WE6kik7tHSc44z1SK09pIVOsg4BvghLJxHYEcFqvfnDDNlGqeVOPO1-ZqGIWh_To42J7Oc4aK2TtmqxHk-VIjKY2Syl7Av9YMEXJw_NnHt2dXKMfrbBW-r2uF_Q/s400/DSC_0020.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's so old-school, but I absolutely love it! It works so well! I had a Green Monster today and didn't have to chew any of it! A post with my favorite combination for GM's to follow soon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now to explain how I got it also explains why I've been gone for so long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unfortunately, Dillon's grandma died while recovering from open heart surgery on January 19th. This was her Vita-Mix that my family thought I would get a lot of use out of. So its a very special, totally fabulous blender. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She was such a wonderful woman, and I will think of her while I am blending away!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She also loved tea parties, so I got to take this home, too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuxaLdr31F8TE5vpROMvsW_iTW3POXZxKCfl-H0xiIUrkBEaQIDkxoV4OLXFqmZkxpo7JyfkgtEXyvo3K9OVrYDj3geWoD0e9INuvFjRfamK5diBePxxCu0dmQgpRnLt4a7bk5X7GzQ/s1600/DSC_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuxaLdr31F8TE5vpROMvsW_iTW3POXZxKCfl-H0xiIUrkBEaQIDkxoV4OLXFqmZkxpo7JyfkgtEXyvo3K9OVrYDj3geWoD0e9INuvFjRfamK5diBePxxCu0dmQgpRnLt4a7bk5X7GzQ/s400/DSC_0023.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Isn't it adorable?! She had so many teapots, that friends and family got to take one home with them if they liked. I thought this one was so cute, and it goes so well in my kitchen. We're trying to drink more tea, so this gives us even more motivation!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After we got home from being with the family the first time, Dillon's dad had a heart attack. Therefore we went back to Bismarck again, just about a day later, to be with our family. Three stents later, his dad is on his way to recovery at home... thank goodness!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now we're back in our Fargo home and are very happy to be here. Today we grocery shopped, cleaned, and did laundry. I hope this week we will be able to get back to normal. It's been a rough couple of weeks! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today I'm making my favorite <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/01/its-best-pizza-ive-ever-had.html">pizza</a> again for supper - except using 1/2 whole wheat flour and 1/2 all-purpose. Then we're going to watch the Pro-Bowl tonight! I'm sad football season is ending, but so happy that the Packers made it to the Superbowl! I can't wait for next Sunday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you had a fun weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-59534252160962738932011-01-18T08:36:00.000-06:002011-01-18T08:36:33.684-06:00Banana Cinnamon OatmealGood Morning!<br />
<br />
I did in fact stay cozy in my bed this morning instead of going to the gym. My plan was to get up and a yoga podcast, but I woke up with a headache. So I slept an extra hour and took some ibuprofen, and I feel a bit better.<br />
<br />
Since it's so cold outside, I thought today would be a good day for oatmeal! As I've mentioned before, I eat <a href="http://thebalancedbicyclist.blogspot.com/2011/01/workout-plan.html">this</a> pretty much every morning. Today I made oatmeal with the same flavors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3KSEDqQLD9bW1mvUKzYUXExmcNs6dhuUrBjkgxgaVSvAe2RmkbDvgy6SjM0vRsdgzxHRngfFP8x64htYS4EYG_5Ih9izE6bQhqlDVXc-N5GDtiELb_J85AAhrXBe6dXCstTRTAAz-A/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3KSEDqQLD9bW1mvUKzYUXExmcNs6dhuUrBjkgxgaVSvAe2RmkbDvgy6SjM0vRsdgzxHRngfFP8x64htYS4EYG_5Ih9izE6bQhqlDVXc-N5GDtiELb_J85AAhrXBe6dXCstTRTAAz-A/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>In the mix:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup old fashioned oats</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/3 cup water</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/3 cup unsweetened soymilk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 tsp brown sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tbsp peanut butter</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 banana</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cook the first 3 ingredients in a small saucepan and cook until bubbly. Add more liquid if you like soupier oatmeal. Then pour into a bowl and add toppings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloBRzZbnxBCj7mevy07mpPKXAHJG1ZNTTAwm2NQGKwS9Azvn3epQpZc8_H7fgVf9XWPj1w4bDpGapQdO72IxGDc8zsf8V6N9RNd_x1aSIoGUMpNU2uFQEB4c5Y0UO4CieAQA3HgjPRw/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloBRzZbnxBCj7mevy07mpPKXAHJG1ZNTTAwm2NQGKwS9Azvn3epQpZc8_H7fgVf9XWPj1w4bDpGapQdO72IxGDc8zsf8V6N9RNd_x1aSIoGUMpNU2uFQEB4c5Y0UO4CieAQA3HgjPRw/s400/DSC_0002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was very good! I did miss my toast combo, but I did enjoy this warm breakfast for a change.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well I must get ready for work. Have a great day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-35036993224544255012011-01-17T18:59:00.000-06:002011-01-17T18:59:18.045-06:00"Cheese" SauceHappy Monday, All!<br />
<br />
I had the day off today! I did some shopping, had lunch with a friend, worked on my resume while drinking coffee at Starbucks, and cooked. All in all a good day. I'm sad its almost over, as I now work 7 days in a row. Bleh - oh well. I'm sure it won't be that bad.<br />
<br />
On to my yummy supper! We bought a couple of russet potatoes yesterday on a whim, so I decided to make baked potatoes for supper tonight. I just wasn't sure how I wanted to serve them.<br />
<br />
Awhile back I made some delicious cheesy pasta sauce and remembered thinking that it would be good on other things. Things like baked potatoes and roasted broccoli.<br />
<br />
Cheesy Sauce from <a href="http://veganyumyum.com/2009/09/hurry-up-alfredo-vyy-cookbook/">Vegan Yum-Yum</a><br />
(I halved this today, but made the full amount when I used it as a pasta sauce.)<br />
<br />
1 Cup Soymilk<br />
1/3 Cup Raw, Unsalted Cashews<br />
1/4 Cup Nutritional Yeast<br />
3 Tbsp Low-Sodium Tamari or Soy Sauce<br />
2 Tbsp Earth Balance Margarine<br />
1 Tbsp Tahini<br />
1 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice<br />
2 tsp Dijon Mustard<br />
1/2 tsp Paprika<br />
1 Pinch Nutmeg<br />
2-4 Cloves of Garlic, optional<br />
Black pepper, to taste<br />
<br />
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Then either heat it on the stove in a saucepan if using it as a topping, or combine in a skillet with cooked pasta.<br />
<br />
Easy as that!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbNcaOnnuJIna4h9pplGc3p7HKbHa5jsMPJwgaa94s90JTBpARd6Fywi196ernfPM1z3y9WKrVOcH6mAygTCxuup8RkNG2LY19ckXYK29eXWorOtGoLk3sypykZaU4PDobwCyjvoF_g/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbNcaOnnuJIna4h9pplGc3p7HKbHa5jsMPJwgaa94s90JTBpARd6Fywi196ernfPM1z3y9WKrVOcH6mAygTCxuup8RkNG2LY19ckXYK29eXWorOtGoLk3sypykZaU4PDobwCyjvoF_g/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It thickens up pretty nicely while being heated. Make sure to stir quite often so it doesn't burn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTxIJfwF7UAT_EAyvgIPACNudCXWjBIAewm3paL198SslW7YhmsiI_KLEXCnCxedK_gKfjiPHlt7ZaA80RDaiJZTG4n8Pr51R-pXoT7Kl9KRYkrCdcfhcv3qplT13O9jpBqQI3f2l6w/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTxIJfwF7UAT_EAyvgIPACNudCXWjBIAewm3paL198SslW7YhmsiI_KLEXCnCxedK_gKfjiPHlt7ZaA80RDaiJZTG4n8Pr51R-pXoT7Kl9KRYkrCdcfhcv3qplT13O9jpBqQI3f2l6w/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Mmmm, a delicious and simple supper. It's a really good cheesy sauce, without all the fat and cholesterol that comes with real cheese. I topped my potato with some vegan sour cream and ground pepper, as well. The broccoli was roasted in the oven like we always do - with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 375° for about 10 minutes. Yum! A hearty and warm meal was just what we were hungry for - especially since it's barely above 0° outside!<br />
<br />
I think the sauce would also go well over rice or quinoa. I'll test that out by using the leftovers in a quinoa bowl tomorrow for lunch. I hope I won't be disappointed!<br />
<br />
I'm off to enjoy the last few hours of my day off. Tomorrow morning it's supposed to be about -20° real air temp when I get up. We'll see if I'm motivated enough to hit the gym, or if I'll just stay cozy in bed.<br />
<br />
Goodnight!<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-11861404126545189622011-01-16T20:05:00.001-06:002011-01-16T20:10:56.425-06:00"It's the best pizza I've ever had"Says Dillon after his first couple bites of the pizza I made from scratch for dinner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvShk5DrBr6xhC0oIoJXc6PJVbY9Zu_MsC1qy3Qe_VtHewzJj8XsRMH_-15H3Dzq_WjvBcu2COWIhA-sXIqrIAKCldacx4RjqBZlHHytUw7toZul114DrLC8_oME8UQi90WO_jeUXzg/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvShk5DrBr6xhC0oIoJXc6PJVbY9Zu_MsC1qy3Qe_VtHewzJj8XsRMH_-15H3Dzq_WjvBcu2COWIhA-sXIqrIAKCldacx4RjqBZlHHytUw7toZul114DrLC8_oME8UQi90WO_jeUXzg/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFOLhERLZm6H06zkvOet47uO1qG7lLe047stGXewnYPNA1hI3Bg8XSdwgCgs2CpF_KSgAYCYhBNKIIplVp2_Jb6WBgVSfx5mHi2loIaT4iCq8UcfqbPhUCPDfTjEyq17Xguz-JbR13A/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFOLhERLZm6H06zkvOet47uO1qG7lLe047stGXewnYPNA1hI3Bg8XSdwgCgs2CpF_KSgAYCYhBNKIIplVp2_Jb6WBgVSfx5mHi2loIaT4iCq8UcfqbPhUCPDfTjEyq17Xguz-JbR13A/s400/DSC_0003.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvBPJkK6fZsWcG7E9r5PnWLWhB3wl4NTe4j0JOHds_K8ByKlCShER2UNX5uSp_yJEQPS9T98waKlREFxwjqxUY9hiuMLFoECDWkmviAVl7tOOepFswt5est4YuoPip7SIgSv5FgF99g/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvBPJkK6fZsWcG7E9r5PnWLWhB3wl4NTe4j0JOHds_K8ByKlCShER2UNX5uSp_yJEQPS9T98waKlREFxwjqxUY9hiuMLFoECDWkmviAVl7tOOepFswt5est4YuoPip7SIgSv5FgF99g/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Look at that crust! Made from <a href="http://markbittman.com/8th-day-of-htce-pizza-dough">this recipe</a>. You really can't go wrong with Mark Bittman's recipes! The toppings included tomato sauce, kale, red pepper, onion, and dayia cheese. Mmmmmm</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And for dessert - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6VNzXSDYcPW99SVuyfLD6BjC9Js8grNuCch5Sjh2z2lesnYcnStPr6vSPgecUiErNzuyFBZAWnDUTWdaCifgOTT9c2MQYvmhkZ52RY-QTWzbfaHtRr6_HLPKaSOun7IWDPSgx44OBw/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6VNzXSDYcPW99SVuyfLD6BjC9Js8grNuCch5Sjh2z2lesnYcnStPr6vSPgecUiErNzuyFBZAWnDUTWdaCifgOTT9c2MQYvmhkZ52RY-QTWzbfaHtRr6_HLPKaSOun7IWDPSgx44OBw/s400/DSC_0008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Looks like cookie dough, doesn't it? Well it's much better for you than that! Here's what I used:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Dessert Hummus </b>adapted from <a href="http://www.thewannabechef.net/2011/01/11/peanut-butter-chocolate-chip-dessert-hummus/">The Wannabe Chef</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/3 cup peanut butter</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp maple syrup</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tbsp vanilla</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup chocolate chips</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>All you do is blend the first 4 ingredients together in a blender or food processor until smooth. Then fold in the chocolate chips.<br />
<br />
It tastes like peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough... but without the guilt that usually comes with eating a bunch of cookie dough! I know it seems weird, but believe me... it's delicious!<br />
<br />
I told you I've been a busy bee in the kitchen today; My food processor and I are exhausted!<br />
<br />
I'm off to eat some more of my dessert hummus. Good night :)<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-89406667324529011782011-01-16T12:47:00.000-06:002011-01-16T12:47:34.894-06:00My Favorite HummusHappy Sunday, Everyone!<br />
<br />
We ended up having a great day yesterday. I made a spur-of-the-moment decision to do this -<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxFXHbMa6YOItZ_oJYZLoe8A2q9GPQiNpWr5ZpALdCz74F8DrKmQymTjjxE21n1PpQ-PUkVzohZIBF5diZ2DeoqbtDVn4FZUUNxwoPZUOgsB_y7NjbIjsMA16ykZUQiMX4hziHmMoq5w/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxFXHbMa6YOItZ_oJYZLoe8A2q9GPQiNpWr5ZpALdCz74F8DrKmQymTjjxE21n1PpQ-PUkVzohZIBF5diZ2DeoqbtDVn4FZUUNxwoPZUOgsB_y7NjbIjsMA16ykZUQiMX4hziHmMoq5w/s400/DSC_0003.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got my nose pierced! I've been wanting to do this <i>forever </i>and the parlor where I've gotten my tattoos done was having a special and piercings. $10 for piercing and jewelry because they were training an apprentice. Lucky me, though, because the trainee was too busy, and I got the professional to do it for the discounted price! It was only a little painful, but Dillon held my hand so it was ok. It doesn't even hurt today. I just love it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This morning I got up to do a bit of cross-training after my long run yesterday. I did 30 minutes on the stationary bike and some weights. I need to make a point to do cross training so I don't get burned out from running.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then Dillon and I did our normal grocery shopping. I couldn't wait to get home to make hummus since I've been out for a few days. I make the same recipe every time because I just love it - so I thought I'd share it with you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>My Favorite Hummus</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ 1/2 cup reserved chickpea water</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 tbsp lemon juice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/3 cup tahini</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 garlic cloves</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">ground pepper to taste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZ3ucoHNKQ0iMojH5ykYosjOUEkaxWQ91Uar2T3RJtklyjUpVksq4M-DhYBJiSoRDwiSsxmi6pOGVGth3xHV2bL-s-0ZGZA9f9F282bzhvhn1OZS0cRUis_IniKgcbII8xhw2PsCp4w/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZ3ucoHNKQ0iMojH5ykYosjOUEkaxWQ91Uar2T3RJtklyjUpVksq4M-DhYBJiSoRDwiSsxmi6pOGVGth3xHV2bL-s-0ZGZA9f9F282bzhvhn1OZS0cRUis_IniKgcbII8xhw2PsCp4w/s400/DSC_0001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To start, drain and rise the chickpeas, but make sure to keep about 1/2 cup of the chickpea water to add to the mix. Then add all ingredients to the food processor, but use the chickpea water sparingly so you're able to adjust the thickness later. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN6YQIFbd1d-IbIv1OryZraj74miPm4VNeeuKo1kvw742tmFttKedtWcVJ5PTCLZsmG4IaOkd0FvueOcSu-JzJg20VgVsqTZk9A5sBh6V8Q2QVP3Qf-zeu28XtyGdMf-ipxef6qnC8Q/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN6YQIFbd1d-IbIv1OryZraj74miPm4VNeeuKo1kvw742tmFttKedtWcVJ5PTCLZsmG4IaOkd0FvueOcSu-JzJg20VgVsqTZk9A5sBh6V8Q2QVP3Qf-zeu28XtyGdMf-ipxef6qnC8Q/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then just blend, blend, and blend - scraping the sides and adding any more chickpea water as needed. I let it blend for a very long time, probably 5-9 minutes for so, because I like really smooth hummus.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgcAc5kbaci2RSX4zANJPxPBs1ywZ7HmYuU0FNy-2U9HY-TaYdTLh6y6beiZb8kUmfXpTA-WdjiPSvZh0Y-Hwdkpm1w_zRnHzFlooQGQoWGHpAFbRjeKwO62VxK0U1svFsKj7U7REqw/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgcAc5kbaci2RSX4zANJPxPBs1ywZ7HmYuU0FNy-2U9HY-TaYdTLh6y6beiZb8kUmfXpTA-WdjiPSvZh0Y-Hwdkpm1w_zRnHzFlooQGQoWGHpAFbRjeKwO62VxK0U1svFsKj7U7REqw/s400/DSC_0007.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Put it into a container, and then you're done! Easy as that :) It's garlicy and delicious! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This morning I also made peanut butter (sooo good), and pizza dough for later tonight. I've been a busy bee!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now I'm going to watch some more football with my love (and kitty!). Have a great day :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-67813113801447642972011-01-15T10:00:00.000-06:002011-01-15T10:00:34.249-06:009 Miles!This morning I ran about 9 miles in 1:40:00! While not super fast, it's still pretty awesome if you ask me.<br />
<br />
The half marathon isn't until May, so I think I'll be very ready for it! I think I'm really going to focus on speed during the week, and then on the weekends get 8-12 mile runs in most of the time. I don't like following a particular plan; I think it kind of takes the fun out of running. I want to run when, where, and for how long I want to run at that time! So I think this flexible plan should work very well for me.<br />
<br />
To prepare for my long run today, I devoured this last night -<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMX1TiKeR_QCu2ED5P35KbIyB6am4QJnicud_1FpSNkR2BodqGqtd9r58IkjRLPTVtcvrQtwqJZfgA9YffmOxDo_jpqX537XSf1BIctpNqf0yP43qRTw7zL_cKUe13JbXk7Z8Yz9cmg/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMX1TiKeR_QCu2ED5P35KbIyB6am4QJnicud_1FpSNkR2BodqGqtd9r58IkjRLPTVtcvrQtwqJZfgA9YffmOxDo_jpqX537XSf1BIctpNqf0yP43qRTw7zL_cKUe13JbXk7Z8Yz9cmg/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mac and Chreese with roasted broccoli! You've probably seen this before :) We were supposed to have this on Thursday, but we went to Granite City for dinner that night instead. Whoops!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night we also went to Dairy Queen for Blizzards. Not very healthy of me, but it's been so long since we've had actual ice cream - it was a nice treat. Treats in moderation, right?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We turned in early last night after watching an episode of The Wire (it's so good!) so we could be rested for our day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Right now I'm sipping this to recover from my run -</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr04TChyphenhyphen4aQ9Tq91uViaGTJWNLN2tI2gBJPub8ctzqjOrlRnVESDzBSncSPRv6rQWTHXJtY1EFdcslFf0dFY_w75LQJqTtilTsMwWhUAbmsYzXaW4I85uMRGu8cu57xNmCZ3iQWzU_A/s1600/DSC_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr04TChyphenhyphen4aQ9Tq91uViaGTJWNLN2tI2gBJPub8ctzqjOrlRnVESDzBSncSPRv6rQWTHXJtY1EFdcslFf0dFY_w75LQJqTtilTsMwWhUAbmsYzXaW4I85uMRGu8cu57xNmCZ3iQWzU_A/s400/DSC_0008.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>1 cup of unsweetened soymilk, 1 cup of frozen blueberries, and 1 frozen banana. Yum!<br />
<br />
Well I need to go get ready for the day! Our plan today is to get some errands done (recycling, pharmacy, etc..), go eat Indian food, and then probably head to JL Beers to enjoy some brew while watching football. Go Packers!!<br />
<br />
I think it's going to be a wonderful day. I hope yours is, too :)<br />
<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-87399554365754791102011-01-12T20:42:00.000-06:002011-01-12T20:42:51.350-06:00Roasted VeggiesHello Everyone!<br />
<br />
We made it more than halfway through the work week! Yay :) I can definitely feel that mid-week slump setting in. School started back up yesterday, and I'm so glad I just get to focus on work now. It's so nice to not have to worry about school work. I just do my job and come home with nothing I <i>have</i> to work on or stress about. It's a nice feeling!<br />
<br />
To fight off my mid-week fatigue, I made a bunch of roasted veggies for dinner! I cut them up this morning, so the only prep I'd have to do after work was season them. Our favorite combo of seasoning is olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Simple and delicious.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFCMqp9edguNTC9z2kuXQw4mP-XVI6hfQz57zAwz4EIvbJSFHPm04RMfexAfyGnPDEnY4wRx5o50NRznWxSNAg4b2urD8aL4Ct7WqFRLH7Hco3Wd0NK5ClFkBtP5twnrsAEFhnQuB9A/s1600/DSC_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFCMqp9edguNTC9z2kuXQw4mP-XVI6hfQz57zAwz4EIvbJSFHPm04RMfexAfyGnPDEnY4wRx5o50NRznWxSNAg4b2urD8aL4Ct7WqFRLH7Hco3Wd0NK5ClFkBtP5twnrsAEFhnQuB9A/s400/DSC_0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Dillon and I absolutely love roasted broccoli, and we decided to give brussel sprouts another try. This time I cut them into smaller pieces so they were able to cook better.<br />
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I roasted them at 375 ° for 15-20 minutes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlpKyeWMlRUAGXe0clGHIopZXoV4R6VDP16bXm2W3ISJ8yWClm4jIVYAXhnt0iMY2MGAQ_GEqRckfs1yMhr5szZxcd36Avw2ul9jemZBF9O3jG310p9Rw8y6KQUVbEocdpaG2QU07dA/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlpKyeWMlRUAGXe0clGHIopZXoV4R6VDP16bXm2W3ISJ8yWClm4jIVYAXhnt0iMY2MGAQ_GEqRckfs1yMhr5szZxcd36Avw2ul9jemZBF9O3jG310p9Rw8y6KQUVbEocdpaG2QU07dA/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Mmmmm, veggie perfection. We were loving the brussel sprouts this time.<br />
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While they were cooking, I made burgers to go along with them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYTETApEk-d7a_wM3w5hGWHN04knPSshEJ9jSqAAL6yDZVL8Uysqf3H3iRyJpbrOsCYKZJdx2zzRxiEurtKNAyZTD3BTQxhY0JE068qsV1cT3pINmW8WGXOq_gCtycZenwBsVw0gB_A/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYTETApEk-d7a_wM3w5hGWHN04knPSshEJ9jSqAAL6yDZVL8Uysqf3H3iRyJpbrOsCYKZJdx2zzRxiEurtKNAyZTD3BTQxhY0JE068qsV1cT3pINmW8WGXOq_gCtycZenwBsVw0gB_A/s400/DSC_0006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I pan grilled one of Amy's American veggie burgers (my fave!) and served it over Ezekiel bread with ketchup, kale, nutritional yeast, and onion. I made Dillon a turkey burger with the same fixings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This very satisfying meal was made, eaten, and cleaned up in less than 40 minutes. Success!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well I'm off to watch Law and Order SVU - it's one of the only shows I try to catch each week. I'm amazed that there have been soooooo many seasons of it, and yet it is still so interesting and entertaining. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~Kasey</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-67262332061938728172011-01-10T20:35:00.001-06:002011-01-10T21:41:39.726-06:00Taco SaladHello!<br />
<br />
I hope your Monday wasn't too painful. Mine went by pretty fast! I was very excited for dinner all day long. I make some type of taco dish every other week or so because it is so easy, quick, healthy, and delicious!<br />
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For this recipe, I was originally going to use some meatless ground for the "meat" of this dish, but the grocery store was out, so I used plain ol' black beans. It turned out wonderfully!<br />
<br />
<b>Taco Salad</b><br />
6 corn tortillas<br />
1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained<br />
cumin<br />
chili powder<br />
black pepper<br />
cayenne pepper<br />
tabasco<br />
lettuce<br />
onion<br />
salsa<br />
sour cream - I used Tofutti's vegan sour cream, you could also use plain greek yogurt<br />
cheese - I used Dayia's vegan cheddar cheese, but again, you could use any type you like<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 375°. Cut corn tortillas (I use a pizza cutter) into chip like pieces and arrange on a baking sheet. Coat with olive oil and salt to taste and bake for about 10 minutes. Check them frequently because they do burn pretty quickly. They should be crispy and just beginning to brown when they are done.<br />
<br />
While the tortillas are baking, drain and rinse the black beans. Then place into a skillet, and cook on medium heat. Use the spices listed to season the beans to your liking.<br />
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The beans should be done at about the same time as the chips. Then serve with your choice of toppings!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Cb5kcuuOWXlH3JbMxfSi4j9JoCppcyZDKjZnNkGW7zePz23lzeGkRJHCprCBkOXfpvozVDIpc7pdOlD1vZBY83dj2wUAaeOdI3K3R08QYOXZXjaEvQ2Ngj2C6ofNZJSRxf7NU09cwA/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Cb5kcuuOWXlH3JbMxfSi4j9JoCppcyZDKjZnNkGW7zePz23lzeGkRJHCprCBkOXfpvozVDIpc7pdOlD1vZBY83dj2wUAaeOdI3K3R08QYOXZXjaEvQ2Ngj2C6ofNZJSRxf7NU09cwA/s400/DSC_0002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Delicious! I like to assemble mine by starting with lettuce, then beans, cheese, onion, salsa, sour cream, and then the chips. I had this plate, and then another serving! Dillon loved it, too! We've never done a taco salad with beans before, and they were really good. Definitely one of my favorite meals.<br />
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I've always loved tacos, and they are just so versatile! Plus- this meal took only about 20 minutes to make, which is great since I don't get home from work until a little after 6:30.<br />
<br />
Well I think I'm going to do some reading before turning in for the night. I just picked up some <a href="http://www.cepsocks.com/cep-compression-running-socks.html">compression socks</a> (in hot pink, of course) that I'm excited to wear during my run tomorrow morning! I must be well rested to have a good run. I'll report back later with how I feel about them.<br />
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Good night!<br />
~KaseyThe Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3173395472011818266.post-71918366962880959612011-01-10T08:38:00.000-06:002011-01-10T08:38:04.564-06:00Meal Plan: Jan 9-15Here's what I'm cookin' up this week:<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>To Prep</b><br />
Roasted Chickpeas, Almond Butter<br />
<br />
<b>Sunday</b><br />
Dunn Bros<br />
Crock-pot Guiness Stew & Beer Bread<br />
<br />
<b>Monday</b><br />
Leftover Noodles w/Tomato Sauce/Leftover Stew and bread<br />
Taco Salad<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday</b><br />
Leftovers - Taco Salad and Stew<br />
On your own (most likely a big salad w/chickpeas)<br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday</b><br />
Salad with Chickpeas/Leftover stew<br />
Veggie Burger (Turkey for hubs) and Roasted Veggies (broccoli & brussel sprouts)<br />
<br />
<b>Thursday</b><br />
Veggie and Chickpea wrap<br />
Mac and Chreese* with Broccoli<br />
<br />
<b>Friday</b><br />
Leftovers<br />
Pizza<br />
<br />
<b>Saturday</b><br />
Passage to India - Lunch Buffet!<br />
Leftover Pizza<br />
<br />
As usual, I'll be sharing some recipes along the way!<br />
<br />
Hope you have a great Monday!<br />
~Kasey<br />
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*Yes, it's really called that! "Chreese" - like "Trees" - because it's plant-based. Get it? haha ;)<br />
<div><br />
</div>The Balanced Bicyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15705219202729221721noreply@blogger.com0