tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19678359185306772122024-03-12T20:03:06.485-07:00Runner Girlhillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-9541968578132352782009-10-12T08:21:00.000-07:002009-10-12T08:21:22.427-07:00Run Austin Run Half MarathonI ran the 1st Annual <a href="http://www.usaproductions.org/events/run-series/run-austin">Run Austin Run</a> Half Marathon in Austin, Texas yesterday. It was a great day in ATX for a run, cool and overcast. It was about 56 degrees and dry until about 9:10am and then it started to rain and it was cold for this Texan!! (As I have written in my other blogs, it was a long, hot summer!) But, I love the cold!!<br />
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The race also featured a 5K and 10K. The route was a grueling, hilly route around some of the most beautiful and hilliest neighborhood roads in Austin. I am very familiar with most of the roads because I have trained on them for many years, but I was not really prepared for the route!! I decided to run the race a couple days ago. I kept thinking of the <a href="http://decker.austinrunners.org/">Decker Challenge</a> while running this race. I am still trying to determine which is harder. Decker has longer hills and has a lot of wind on the course from the rural location. RAR had a lot of short, steep inclines.<br />
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I would recommend the race, it was in an easily accessible area of town and well marked and generally well-staffed. There were not of lot of race spectators, but I figure it was because of it being a new race. It was also beautiful and a distance we (ATX) need (and like) at this time of the year. I definately saw some kinks that need to be worked out, but that is because I am a race veteran. They needed more water stops between miles 8-11 ( I don't think there was one between these miles, just at 8 and 11). Also, the water stops were not well staffed and the water cups were filled too full. I really don't want to whine or gripe about this though because I think race volunteers are WONDERFUL!! I also saw at least two EMS trucks driving and watching the race participants (very cautious). I can't say a lot about the after party because I got cold and left quickly after the rain started. But, it did look like they spent a lot of time on the after party.<br />
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One more thing about the race that needs to be worked out. More time to pick up race packet!! The only time was between 10 and 5 on Saturday before the race. I had to have my mom pick up my packet for me because we were so busy this Saturday. Which I am sure many families are!!<br />
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I am sore today and ran the race in 1:41, not my best time, but ok for the course and training. As my daughter said, "you aren't even training Mommy, why are you running a race?" I placed 4th in my age-group. I am happy with my results and will probably run it again next year!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-58723168070970157432009-10-04T13:36:00.000-07:002009-10-04T13:36:29.856-07:00Garmin 205<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Ok, I am not going to say I am a gadget person or extremely "techy", but I love my Garmin and can't live without it!! Now I sound like I am speaking at Garmins anonymous. But, seriously, I charged my Garmin earlier in the week and saw it was charged. I then went to put it on and turn it on. Well.....it was dead...so dead...I kept on pushing the "on" button and nothing would happened. I plugged it back in, still no response. I was feeling doomed. I started feeling sad, and despondent, wondering how would I survive without it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I went on my bike ride, realizing all the great things my Garmin did other than tracking my miles and just got sadder. But, I also thought about where I bought it...<a href="http://www.rei.com/">REI</a>!! and decided to call them.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I always have known I loved REI! I guess you can guess what happened? Yes, REI said they would exchange my Garmin for a new one!!! and I would have done that, but they were out of stock at REI. So, I googled "dead Garmin" and found out there is a "soft reset". All Garmin users need to know this- push lap and mode at the same time. Well, that did the trick!! I went out for a run and was so happy!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Ha, the little things in life that make you so happy!! If my Garmin dies (really dies), I will try REI again! </span></span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-88261944139083252492009-09-28T20:18:00.000-07:002009-09-28T20:18:33.284-07:00Good Runs<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am striving to always do good, high quality runs!! I am not always successful, but I am trying!!! It is so hard to do. My running has always been an "outlet" or "me-time". So, I can just go out for a run and veg, but not all workouts can be "veg" workouts. During my high-quality runs, I really push myself to at least 80% of my max and don't veg. I do still get the good endorphins from these workouts, but they are harder to get motivated for, especially on my own. I trained with an awesome coach, </span><a href="http://www.gilbertsgazelles.com/gilbert_bio.php"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gilbert Tuhabonye</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, for a couple years and learned a lot from him. I still run with his group on weekends, but miss the high quality weekly workouts. I would really look forward to these workouts because I had a lot of new friends doing them. Now, I am doing these on my own, because of my "all over the place" work schedule.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you wondering why do high quality runs? Well, there are a lot of good reasons, even if you are a beginner or are not training for a race. Even as a new runner, running more high quality workouts, that change your stride and use different muscles will improve your running in comfort, ease, strength, and quickness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As a seasoned runner, training for races, speed workouts and hill workouts will improve your times and increase your fitness.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">So, remember hills, track, farleck and tempo...and long runs!!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-10506397254162174602009-09-20T18:37:00.000-07:002009-09-20T18:37:36.344-07:00Does Kombucha really do a body good??<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know about the kombucha, but I am trying it. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have tried <a href="http://www.monavie.com/Web/US/en/index.dhtml?r=1">Monavie</a>..I liked the taste and the idea of it. But, it was very expensive and I really couldn't tell it changed anything for me? I tried for 2 weeks first and even for a month.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Now, I am drinking Kombucha. It is still a little expensive. I tried <a href="http://www.synergydrinks.com/">Synergy</a> first, then <a href="http://buddhasbrew.com/about.html">Buddha's Brew</a>. I really like Buddha's Brew Ginger!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">But, now I have tried a friends that is locally made. I can't remember the name, but drank their Pina Coloda Ginger flavor. Good stuff and a better price than the stuff you find in the stores.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There are all kinds of claims of health benefits, including:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Restores hair color </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Thickens hair </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Dissolves gallstones Increases energy </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Lengthens lifespan </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Arterioscrosis/softens veins </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Speeds healing </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Lowers cholesterol </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Lowers blood pressure </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Increases blood circulation </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Eliminates wrinkles/skin humectant </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Improves menopausal symptoms </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Strengthens leg muscles </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Chickenpox /herpes zoster remedy </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Colitis/improves digestion/ nervous stomach </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Poultice for wounds/ulcers </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Cleanses gallbladder </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Lessens anxiety </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Levels glucose </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Protects teeth from cavities </em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Activates glandular system </em></span><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span></em> <br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">So, I am going to try it and see. I have been drinking it for a couple weeks now. Not every day, but on the weekends. I do like the taste!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-41082344820661251322009-09-17T06:52:00.000-07:002009-09-17T06:52:08.966-07:00The Importance of Rest!!!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am taking a rest day today! Enjoying my coffee and not going to workout! I have worked out hard this week and am sore! I have been a runner since my teen years and worked in the fitness industry since my early 20's. One thing I have learned is that your body needs a rest day! Since, I have started this (rest thing) I have not been injured from over-training. I have certainly taken tumbles down the trails, streets and stairs and gotten injured, but not from training. I always rest at least one day a week now!...no working out for one day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I know it is so hard to take a day of rest when you are a triathlete, marathoner, runner, swimmer, someone trying to lose weight or other daily fitness addict. You feel that it will derail your fitness or weightloss...or just throw you off your fitness regimine. But, that is wrong, especially, if you are pushing yourself 75-90% of your max and feeling tired...even if you aren't particulary tired- you need at least one day of rest from any kind of working out each week. Unless, you are an elite, but most of us aren't!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rest will help with your mental outlook, help your fitness level (yes!) and help your body recover (to prevent injuries). Cross-training on one of the other days you work out helps, too. Also, getting a good nights sleep helps training, too. Check out this article in <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-267--13281-0,00.html">Runners World</a> on sleep. There are more, I think you get the idea, but a good night's sleep is important, too!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-90994758327796727642009-09-16T10:56:00.000-07:002009-09-16T10:56:56.710-07:0020 Mile Ride Today!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I finally got on my bike today for a real workout! and what a day. It was 68 degrees when we were getting our the door to get to school this morning. I didn't get to ride until 10:00, but the weather was still awesome! I have been riding my bike to take Cams to school and back home, to work and just whenever I can for an errand or to the pool. But, have not worked out on my bike since early August!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made a loop from Lake Austin, up Exposition to Balcones over to Shoal Creek and back around Scenic to Lake Austin. It was very hilly, but I kept and avg pace of 14 mph with a max of 29mph...it was a fun and hard workout!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I tried something new last night! I tried <a href="http://www.campgladiator.com/">Camp Gladiator</a> boot camp. I am very picky about workouts, but would recommend this to anyone and would do it again! We did a lot of running drills, arm work and core work. I am sore today! It was a lot of fun, we even finished with "tug o war" and I happened to be on the team that won. What fun! I think that it is a good workout for runners and triathletes, too. We don't always have time to get to the gym for weights or core workouts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I just finished an awesome lunch!! It was a grilled sharp cheddar cheese sandwich with avocado and heirloom tomatoes on sourdough! Yum!! Awesome reward for a good workout!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-26874953151291430512009-09-14T11:14:00.000-07:002009-09-14T11:14:50.088-07:00Glucosamine and MSMI think that Glucosamine and MSM must be miracle supplements!! Seriously! If you follow my blog, you know that I injured my knee back in June (through a fall) and have had a hard time running after the injury because of the pain. Well, I recently kicked up my mileage and have had a "sore" knee after my long runs. It has been more like an over-worked knee than an injured knee though. I started thinking about my supplements and realized I haven't been taking Glucosamine and MSM because I ran out. Just bought some Saturday night and ran on Sunday morning (15 miles!) and didn't have any pain and don't today!! Yippee!! I feel like I could run today. I am going to take off though. When I got back into marathoning at 35, I noticed a little bit of ligament and knee pain and started taking Glucosamine and MSM. It worked the same way at that time, like magic.<br />
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Well, off to swim a mile at Barton Springs!...thinking about the Longhorn 70.3 now!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-45666232578970089682009-09-13T12:28:00.000-07:002009-09-13T12:28:29.111-07:00Fifteen Mile Run TodayWell, I am really loving all this rain. Normally, I love getting out in the rain when it is warm, but I have allergies and am lacking all my normal motivation!!! Yesterday, my girlfriends and I decided not to do our long run and save it for Sunday. It rained the entire day here in ATX. Somehow, I was having a hard time getting motivated for our Sunday run. Unconsciously, I unset my alarm and was woke up by Charlotte texting me that she just left her house. I was so deep in sleep that it took me about 5 minutes to call her back. She was late, too. So, we met at my house and ran to Exposition and met Maryanne and continued down to the trail. I didn't even think I would run 10 with them, but we got on the trail and got to I35, then decided to run further. I am so glad I did. I feel much better that I ran and ran long.<br />
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So, I get home ready to stretch and my little energizer "10 year old" bunny wants me to put on the <a href="http://yogatoday.com/">YogaToday.com.</a> and do yoga with her. Today's yoga was so core-intensive, that I had to quit early. It was still good and I got some good stretching, too.<br />
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I hope you got in a good workout this weekend!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-56717286354751454272009-09-10T14:58:00.000-07:002009-09-10T14:58:47.680-07:00Yoga!!!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have never blogged about how important I think Yoga is to a runner. I have been doing yoga for 4 years now, sometimes I am more consistent than others. When I was most consistent I had the strogest core ever. Having a strong core helps with fatigue and speed! It helps you to tire less quickly and to pump your legs faster for quicker turnover. There are other benefits, too, like stress reduction,toning of your entire body and increasing flexibility. I try to do some at home and some at a studio....and I wanted to pass on a great website I just found and recommend. It's called <a href="http://www.yogatoday.com/">Yoga Today</a>.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/Sql17R7dzFI/AAAAAAAAAX0/f-OKuqOyChY/s1600-h/cardsf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mq="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/Sql17R7dzFI/AAAAAAAAAX0/f-OKuqOyChY/s320/cardsf.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Another help for me has been these nifty laminated cards. You have to know a little about yoga to use this, but it helps aid your memory in your Yoga practice. Yes, practice is the word Yogis use...gotta love that...perfection is not mandatory!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I have practiced yoga twice this week and feel so much stronger and relaxed. I am going to try and keep it up 2 times every week. Wish me luck!!!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-79305609602407179112009-09-07T19:01:00.000-07:002009-09-07T19:01:08.512-07:00Running Lately<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope you noticed that I have cleaned up my blog! I have tried to get back into the blog mood for a few weeks, talking about healthy food. It hasn't been the greatest writing (sorry), but it is getting me back in the saddle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I got injured in June this summer (June 1st to be exact)! It was such a stupid injury and I think I had "runner's depression" after my injury for a couple months. I fell less than 1/2 a mile into my run! Downhill..on rough asphalt. So, I know you are wondering how...well, I just bought new running shoes and stuck my right foot through my left lace...while running! I slammed myself down onto my knees and skid. I could barely walk for a week and had road rash on my hands, knees, and left hip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">After, all the injuries healed, my right knee still hurt. It was the knee that took the brunt of the fall. It swelled up like a balloon on my kneecap. So, all summer, I have rehabilitated it. I have swam at Barton Springs and ridden my bike all summer. Even biking and swimming hurt for the month of June and a little in July. I am finally running...I started by running a couple miles every other day, but have now worked up to 14 miles. I am estatic about it. I am also back to running with my girlfriends. That was another thing I wasn't doing, it took so much thought to put my foot and my leg down, that I couldn't run with anyone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">So, I am getting through my injured runner depression and "running with joy" (thanks for that saying Gilbert!) again!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I am looking forward to fall running and fall races!!</span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-27846281141534067772009-08-23T10:33:00.000-07:002009-08-23T12:05:08.365-07:00Justins Nut ButterI am continuing some of my favorite healthy food secrets, it seems like I am on a roll. I think of food as fuel for running and training, and for feeling good in life! So, I just want to share some of the healthy things I have found.<br /><br />I have been eating and following <a href="http://www.justinsnutbutter.com/products.php"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Justins</span> Nut Butter</a> for about 3 years. I discovered it through reading my favorite <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">triathlete's</span> Blog (Desiree <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ficker</span>). I could only find it at <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Whole Foods,</a><br />but now you can find it at <a href="http://www.rei.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">REI</span></a> or <a href="http://www.heb.com/welcome/index.jsp">HEB</a> (local, here in Texas), which is awesome. I love to carry the little packets in my car or purse for a quick, healthy snack. I also pack them in my daughter's lunch with crackers or apples for neat and easy squeeze snacks. My daughter especially loves the Honey Peanut Butter. I love the Almond butter and I just saw that they have a new Hazelnut Butter, that sounds delicious!<br /><br />So, you ask "why have a nut butter or this kind for a snack?" Well, it is all natural, high protein snack without any fillers or preservatives. It tastes wonderful, too! <span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"><img src="img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" /></span></span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-63424325663643922452009-08-12T18:46:00.000-07:002009-08-12T19:05:07.938-07:00Beef???????So much to say about this and don't know where to start!! I had a friend I adore refer me to the Texas Beef Council Team. I checked it out and found out that they sponsor you in races. I thought great and didn't know much else about it until I did the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">webinar</span> today.<br /><br />I did learn a lot...I am a nutrition/fitness/health junkie....beef has a lot of health benefits. It is a powerhouse for protein. b vitamins and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">monounsaturated</span> fat. Monounsaturated fat is the good stuff!..think olive oil, avocados...and you should not be scared of fats....remember moderation. Being sponsored and powered by beef will be on my shirts that I wear in the races that they will sponsor for me and the team.<br /><br />Well, I posted my knowledge on Twitter and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Face book</span>, unknowing that it is a such HOT topic. I am not going to pretend that I have had my doubts about beef and watch how much I eat (but I do that with everything). But, in the last 10 years I have certainly ate more beef (and felt good about it) than I did in my 20's. I was advised my my doctor to eat more lean beef and meats in my 20's for protein (because I was lacking). I also craved beef when I was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">pregnant</span>...could not stomach my favorite fish-salmon! It was so hard and so confusing for my health-nut personality.<br /><br />Fast forward to the 2000's and I have read about how beef has heart healthy fat and grass fed beef has even more heart healthy fat the conventional beef.<br /><br />My motto is always "moderation"..here is a quote from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mens</span> Fitness that says that and more..<br /><br />* A three-ounce serving of lean beef contributes less than 10 percent of calories to a 2000-calorie diet, yet it supplies more than 10 percent of the Daily Value for nine essential nutrients.<br /><br />I hope you will do your own research and see that beef is not the "bad guy" that is is portrayed to be!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-29788899614024220412009-08-09T13:23:00.000-07:002009-08-09T13:52:22.031-07:00Miso MayoAs I write this I am enjoying my Miso Mayo with carrots!<br /><br />This stuff is so yummy and thanks to my daughter being hungry at Whole Foods, we tried it at a sampling! It is so good and better for you than real Mayo. You can use it as a dipping sauce (as I do with carrots), a sandwich spread, with tuna or in potato salad.<br /><br />So, what is it you ask???? Well, it is made of fermented soybean paste from Hawaii. Funny thing, I fell in love with Miso soup on my honeymoon in Hawaii!!! So, Miso Mayo is high in protein, vitamin B-12, and 8 essential amino acids. It is also a living, cultured food and low in sodium..Did I mention it is yummy!! or in my daughter's words yummerful??<br /><br />The Miso Mayo website also says that it has UMAMI (a japanese word for the 5th taste sensation. You need to check out the <a href="http://www.misomayo.com/">Miso Mayo</a> site to read about it...it also has recipes.<br /><br />One last important thing, it is vegan. I am not vegan, wish I could be!!<br /><br />You can purchase it at Whole Foods or <a href="http://www.misomayo.com/buy_miso_mayo.html">order it online.</a><br /><br />Happy Healthy eating!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-3492911771335435292009-08-02T11:40:00.000-07:002009-08-02T12:32:24.007-07:00Love Greek Gods Yogurt!My favorite foodie find of late has been the Honey flavored Greek Gods yogurt. I can find it at my local HEB or Whole Foods. I buy it by the large container (16 oz). It is great with fresh blueberries, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">raspberries</span> and cacao nibs or plain. I have to explain that I am not a yogurt lover, but I love this yogurt! I know that I should eat yogurt for health reasons (they say that yogurt helps build stronger bones, enhances immunity, lowers blood pressure, and may even have anticancer and weight-loss effects), but normally couldn't stomach it. Not anymore!!..Greek Gods is thick, creamy and decadent for yogurt!<br /><br />Just looking at the nutrition side, the sugars are much less in Greek Gods yogurt than traditional yogurt (even light yogurt). I compared it to Yoplait. It looks like the Fig and Honey flavored have the highest of the <a href="http://www.greekgodsyogurt.com/html/index.php">Greek Gods</a>, but most of their yogurts are lower in sugars.<br /><br />If you check out their site, they have a lot of recipes, too. Check it out and tell me if you agree or don't. I would love to hear about your favorite yogurt, too!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-21659727512732368822009-07-30T13:26:00.000-07:002009-07-30T14:08:17.039-07:00Sun Harvest Anyone?We are all looking for ways to save money and eat healthy, right? Well, I feel like I found a secret!<br /><br />First, I have always loved Whole Foods, Central Market and our local farmers market for fresh, organic produce. However, it is always pricey. The sales are normally okay. But, the sales prices at Whole Foods or Central Market just bring the prices down to level at my local fav-HEB.<br /><br />The other day, I was leaving a movie with my daughter and saw Sun Harvest...an old grocery that I used to frequent in the mid-90's...Yes, that long the mid-90's. I hadn't stepped foot in one in over 10 years. I stopped going because we moved to the suburbs and just forgot about it because it didn't make much of an impression on me.<br /><br />Well, it did yesterday!! Wednesday...they have double sale day..meaning they have two overlapping weekly sales going on...just like Whole foods, but better prices. I got blueberries for .99 a carton, red delicious apples for .88, pears for .88, Romaine lettuce .97 and Red leaf lettuce for .77. I am quoting the non-organic fruit and veggie prices, but the organic are good, too. The produce prices are unbelievable. I did check the rest of the store for milk and dry goods. They seem to be in line with most stores. The meat department also has incredible sales, too. But, I didn't try the meat and I don't want to recommend without trying.<br /><br />I am going to stop in again next week and see how it compares. You also get .05 off if you bring your own bag...just like Whole Foods!<br /><br />Check it out!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-65367286942727239112009-07-24T07:43:00.000-07:002009-07-24T07:52:41.307-07:00Summer Mornings at Barton Springs<span style="font-family:verdana;">I have been swimming at Barton Springs in the mornings before 9. It seems that everyone else in the city is doing the same, because it is very busy! There is a whole culture of Barton Springs early morning swimmers. I am amazed at how different it is in the early mornings compared to the afternoons when I take my daughter.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Everyone is so serious and alive with working out in the mornings. Mostly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">triathletes</span>, runners and older folks swimming with joy. The afternoons are more subdued and relaxed with a little bit of funkiness. In the afternoons, most people are just soaking themselves in the pool trying to cool off.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;">It is a wonderful jewel that Austin has! no matter what you want to do.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;"></span>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-3882151772551097162009-07-23T20:37:00.000-07:002009-07-23T20:40:49.190-07:00Summer RunningI have not been blogging lately!! I have been injured! and am still recovering! Is it because I turned 40 this year that it takes so long to recover!<br /><br />I have been injured since the beginning of June! I tripped while running and landed on my knees (but mostly my right knee). I have been running very sporadically and swimming a lot.<br /><br />I think I am in denial that I am injured! Is this a common thing for runners? Denial of injuries?hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-81130849376687456832009-02-07T19:56:00.001-08:002009-02-07T20:11:43.331-08:00Spring running!!Is it really spring? No, but it sure does feel that way here in Austin!! I am getting the spring bug...that means more training and planning for races. I just ran my favorite annual race- 3M half Marathon in Austin. Normally, (5 years in a row, except this year) I am getting ready to run the Austin Marathon. Not this year! Why...well a few reasons:<br /><br />1: Ran NY in November<br />2: Want to do something different, like a 1/2 Iron<br />3: Just couldn't get motivated!!<br /><br />So, I am running a few different races this spring and trying to talk myself into training for a 1/2 Iron this summer.<br /><br />On of the races is the <a href="http://races.zoomarun.com/austin/">Zooma</a> women's half marathon. I think it looks like a terrific race in Bastrop at the Hyatt Lost Pines. It is beautiful out there! Also, ARC (Austin Runners Club) is doing a <a href="http://daisy.austinrunners.org/">sprint running series</a> that starts with the Daisy 5K on February 28th. They are 5K and 10K's that motivate you to keep up your running this spring. One last race to think about, <a href="http://www.sanmarcosrunners.org/mbhm/">Moe's Better Half</a> this race is getting more popular and has a great reputation. It is by the outlet mall in San Marcos, TX. I have never run it, but have heard good things.<br /><br />I hope you check out some of these races!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-89081419633796871092008-12-07T19:32:00.000-08:002008-12-07T19:45:05.337-08:00Decker ChallengeI ran the Decker Challenge 1/2 Marathon today. I ran this race last year (as I have many years before) and had an awful race last year. The race is brutally hilly, always windy and it is either warm and muggy or freezing cold. The weather forecast for 2008 kept looking good - cool 38 degrees and no wind. It really worked out that way, too. I had an awesome fun race and a good running time.<br /><br />I carpooled with some of my Gazelle friends, Charlotte, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Christy</span> and Paula. We had so much fun meeting at 6:45 am to make our <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">trek</span> across Austin to the Expo Center. We all wondered what we were getting ourselves into, but all had fun anyway.<br /><br />I started my race easy, about a 7:30 pace. I wanted to start at a manageable pace and keep it. I ran an avg of 7:37. So, I was very happy with my pace. The many uphills slowed me down, but the downhills were good to make time on. My total time was 1:40 and I came in 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> in my age group. I was also happy with my placement. There is a very fast,<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">competitive</span> women runners in my 35-39 age group. I rarely place in the top 10!!! My friend Charlotte, got 3rd place in her age group 45-49 and received a cool running shoe medal with wings. A big CONGRATULATIONS to her!<br /><br />It was a great race!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-86516907934187204312008-11-03T11:51:00.000-08:002008-11-03T15:00:41.975-08:00New York MarathonCharlotte and I on the Staten Island Ferry!<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9XKV9_UTI/AAAAAAAAAOo/Y-PmF_8Vkq4/s1600-h/IMG00190.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264522324626854194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9XKV9_UTI/AAAAAAAAAOo/Y-PmF_8Vkq4/s400/IMG00190.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>Well, after going back and forth trying to decide if I was really doing this marathon I did it!!! AND I am SO glad.<br /></div><div>I flew up on Saturday morning at 7am with my friend, Charlotte, and flew back at 8pm on Sunday night! Sounds like such a short time, but we had a Blast!!! We met other Austinites running the marathon on the plane to NY and shared a taxi ride to mid-town where we stayed at the Yale Club. It was even fun riding the taxi...there was such an energy in the air. We saw flower and farmer's markets on the streets, pizza shops, china shops, and tons of yellow cabs. We arrived at our hotel after a very short ship from JFK. We then walked over to a little pizza shop and had a couple slices of pizza. We watched the locals hanging out in the pizza joint and enjoyed real NY pizza. We then walked over to the Hyatt to catch a shuttle to the NY Marathon expo. We picked up our race packets and looked around the expo and then headed back to the hotel. We then walked over to meet our friends from the airplane for dinner at <a href="http://www.giovanni-restaurant.com/index.html">Giovanni Ristorante</a>. The meal was tasty but not my favorite from our trip!<br /></div><div>We then headed home early (about 7:30) to get ready for the marathon and get to bed. We also watched Texas Tech beat UT. We were so upset!!! </div><br /><br /><div>We slept very good and got up at 6:15 for the marathon. Now for the real fun!! We then headed over to Grand Central Station, grabbed coffees and hopped on the subway to the Staten Island Ferry.<br /></div><div>Grand Central Station-I couldn't get a good picture of clock!!!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264523849637908514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9YjHE9UCI/AAAAAAAAAOw/6lzx9YzHfLA/s400/IMG00184.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div>The weather was crisp (37 degrees) and sunny. The ferry ride was beautiful. Here are a few pictures I snapped...<br /></div><div>My friend (and neighbor), Amy, who ran a 3:33!!!<br /><br /></div></div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264529798605959170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9d9Ytd8AI/AAAAAAAAAPI/nSgG8oc1f6c/s400/IMG00191.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><div>The Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264530111059831714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9ePksRq6I/AAAAAAAAAPY/VWg-0oI9FEo/s400/IMG00193.jpg" border="0" />Charlotte and I waiting in the runner's village for the marathon to start...<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264530496275560786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9el_u3OVI/AAAAAAAAAPo/6DjNHbZRCLI/s400/IMG00195.jpg" border="0" />Charlotte and Amy , right after we got off shuttle bus. There were so many port-o-potties!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264530332895439474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9ecfGAanI/AAAAAAAAAPg/OWbDYZlmEzg/s400/IMG00194.jpg" border="0" /></div><p>We finally started the race with a smile on my face. Charlotte and I started out together on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.<br /></p><p>This is view from the bridge...I ran over to the edge and snapped this!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264561068500334722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ96ZiJQOII/AAAAAAAAAPw/zetuvanHIDY/s400/IMG00196.jpg" border="0" /></p></div></div></div>This is my attempt to take a picture with my sweaty phone on the course. I was running through Williamsburg.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264562139668963474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ97X4jwYJI/AAAAAAAAAQA/djqAK4a0FA4/s400/IMG00198.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p>This is me after the race. I know I look hilarious. I was a little embarassed trying to take a picutre of myself!! AGH!!! But, I had a 3:38 finish time, with no goal in mind. I just ran for fun, so I was so excited!!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264563618104851378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ98t8KVu7I/AAAAAAAAAQI/2FWNwhjS3bs/s400/IMG00199.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><br /><p>After the marathon, Charlotte (who had a great finish of 3:47 with only one long run!!!), Amy and I walked through Central Park in a daze after we finished. We were also freezing. I think the high was about 44 degrees.<br /></p><p>Amy went back to her hotel. Charlotte and I tried to get on the subway unsuccessfully along with 30,000 other people!!! Charlotte and I then tried to get a taxi with no luck, so I talked her into riding a rickshaw. I had so much fun on the rickshaw, it was so crazy!!!<br /></p><p>This is our view from the rickshaw. Our driver was a college student from Istanbul, Turkey.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264566340264615650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9_MY_zXuI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/3aGFLxxzMwo/s400/IMG00204.jpg" border="0" /></p></div></div><br /><p>This is our view of Times Square from the rickshaw.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264567160042421522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YhduGSepyoY/SQ9_8G6D_RI/AAAAAAAAAQg/QsKYZ9tSDIA/s400/IMG00209.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>We then stopped at Starbucks for a coffee and then went back to the hotel and showered! We then went to a Japanese Restaurant called East and had sushi. It was so cheap!!! and good! This was my favorite dinner and my second was the pizza!</p><p>This was my favorite marathon by far and I can see why everyone loves New York City. It was so much fun!!</p>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-31934071499726216462008-09-18T07:17:00.000-07:002008-09-19T11:57:04.780-07:00Healthy things I have added to my diet...So, along with knowing the bad, you have to know the good. I have found a great juice/smoothie bar on Lake Austin Blvd. It feels like LA when you go in there.. it is called <a href="http://dailyjuice.org/">The Daily Juice</a>. My favorite smoothie drink is called the Hippie Chick. It tastes like <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">banana</span> bread. It has <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">bananas</span>, coconut water, almond butter,hemp seeds, agave <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nectar</span>, vanilla and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">yerba</span> mate in it. It is great after workout nutrition.<br /><br /><br />So, I know a lot of those ingredients sound very foreign. they did to me, too. But, I have started researching and using some of these "super foods" to enhance my nutrition. For instance hemp seeds (which are in the Hippie Chick smoothie)-have 80% essential fatty acids, amino acids as well as complete and highly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">digestible</span> protein. So, I have this as a post-workout healthy treat when I am in that neck of the woods!<br /><br /><br /><br />I am also adding <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">cocoa</span> nibs to my yogurt in the morning. Cocoa nibs are what is left over from the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">cocoa</span> bean after chocolate is made. It is also considered a "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">superfood</span>". It has a very high <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ORAC</span> reading (which a measurement for antioxidants). This site has some of the benefits of chocolate and <a href="http://www.health-benefits-of-dark-chocolate.com/raw-cocoa-nibs.html">cocoa nibs</a>. If you do a search, you will find that there are a lot of different ways to add them to your diet. I bought my package at Whole Foods.<br /><br />A yummy sounding recipe I found on <a href="http://projects.washingtonpost.com/recipes/2008/02/13/buffalo-steaks-cocoa-nibs-sauce/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">washingtonpost</span>.com </a>with <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">cocoa</span> nibs....<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Bison Steaks With Cocoa Nib Sauce</strong><br /><br />The Washington Post, February 13, 2008<br />Dinner in 20 Minutes<br />Cuisine: American<br />Course: Main Course<br />Features: Fast, Healthy<br /><br /><br />The bison steak medallions we used for this recipe are available at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">SuperFresh</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Wegmans</span>; Whole Foods Markets carry other cuts of buffalo, including flank steak and rib-eye.<br />The cocoa sauce complements the meat's rich, sweet flavor. Serve with a saute of mixed vegetables or wild rice and a glass of a chocolate-friendly zinfandel or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">syrah</span>.<br />4 servings<br /><br /><br />Ingredients:<br />2 medium shallots<br />1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br />4 6-ounce bison (buffalo) steak medallions, such as Great Range brand<br />Kosher salt<br />Freshly ground black pepper<br />1 to 2 tablespoon olive oil<br />1/2 to 3/4 cup zinfandel or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">syrah</span><br />1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth<br />1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard<br />2 tablespoons cocoa nibs<br />Pinch sugar (optional)<br />Several sprigs flat-leaf parsley<br />Directions:<br />Mince the shallots and set aside.<br />Sprinkle the cocoa powder on a plate; use it to lightly coat the both sides of each steak. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.<br />Spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking oil spray and place it on the middle oven rack; preheat to 325 degrees.<br />Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the steaks and cook for 2 minutes, then turn them over and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Both sides should have a slightly seared, chocolate-brown crust. Use tongs to transfer the meat to the baking dish in the oven.<br />With the skillet still over medium heat, add the shallots and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened. Add the wine and beef broth; increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 5 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by at least a third. Add the mustard and stir to combine.<br />Turn off the oven and transfer the meat to the counter to rest (an internal temperature of medium-rare should register 145 degrees on an instant-read thermometer).<br />Add the cocoa nibs to the skillet and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning; add the sugar, if using. Meanwhile, finely chop the parsley leaves. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the chopped parsley, stirring to combine.<br />Divide the medallions among individual plates and spoon the cocoa nib sauce over the top. Serve immediately.<br /><br /><br />Recipe Source:<br />From assistant Food editor Bonnie S. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Benwick</span>.<br />Tested by Bonnie S. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Benwick</span> for The Washington Post.E-mail the <a href="mailto:food@washpost.com?Subject=About%20the%20Bison%20Steaks%20With%20Cocoa%20Nib%20Sauce%20Recipe">Food Section</a> with recipe questions.hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-58725877744185245322008-09-05T12:02:00.000-07:002008-09-05T18:23:27.678-07:00Diet Soda IS BAD for you!Okay, so I have a soapbox and I am a admitted health "nut" :) So, there is something that really bothers me because it has no redeeming benefits to a person...at all. It is drinking diet soda (most people drink Coke). I did drink diet soda when I was in my 20's. Then, I stopped because I found out I may have cancer (and did, but that is another story) and wanted to rid my body of anything impure. After a while, I tried to drink real Coke-a-cola and (get this), I loved it. It tastes so good and it so refreshing. But, I limited myself to one a day, then one a week and now I rarely (maybe once a year) drink it. I feel so much better to order a tea or water now. I've read different health magazines, different newspapers and different web sites over the years and I hear nothing but bad things about diet sodas (and sodas for that matter)!<br /><br />Here are a few of the bad things about diet sodas:<br /><br />Cause weight gain - one article from <a href="http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20080211/artificial-sweeteners-increase-weight"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Web Md</span></a>, although I found a lot more<br /><br />Increased risk of osteoporosis in adults (this article is about kids- <a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/004416.html">Natural News</a>)<br /><br />Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes- <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/PersonalBest/story?id=3447205&page=1">ABC news</a><br /><p>I am sure I could find more. Our <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">society</span> is so <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">obsessed</span> with weight, why don't teach our kids to eat healthy and be a better role model instead of drinking Diet Cola. I have heard my daughter ask my husband why he drinks a diet drink. I think that our kids (boys and girls) should grow up with healthy body images and not think that they are fat and need diet soda because Mom or Dad drinks it.<br /><br />So, now you ask, what do you substitute for it. I know a lot of people drink it first thing in the morning, so you may need to find another ritual when first thing in the morning. I suggest drinking a hot or cold tea (Benefits of <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/01/23/BK.tea/index.html">tea</a>) or water with lemon.</p><p>Anyway, I hope you think about it!</p>hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-41705459260281822382008-09-04T11:43:00.000-07:002008-09-04T20:13:13.399-07:00Training and other random thoughtsWell, with school starting, my workouts have been taken to a new level and it is so much fun! I ran 5 mile warm-up before our Gazelles workout yesterday with Laurie. We ran about 8.5 minute pace. Gilbert had us do a circuit workout at Austin high and we did a few new strengthening moves. A few that I loved were jumping up (and back down) with both feet together, on a box that was 2 feet high, kicking a 6-8lb medicine ball with two feet while lying down and hopping 15 times on one foot with an 8 pound weight. That last sentence was describing 3 <em>different</em> exercises, if I wasn't clear :) We also did lunges, push-ups (the real kind!), superman (for your back), sit-ups and pull-ups. I also swam about a 1/2 mile at Deep Eddy afterward. I am a little sore today! All in all it was a great workout.<br /><br />I ran an easy 5 miles today. I teach my trail class at <a href="http://wildbasinfitness.com/index.html">Wild Basin </a>tomorrow, so we have a 6 mile run planned. I am trying to psyche myself into my Saturday (yes, I am already thinking about it) long run. I know it will be around 16-18 miles.<br /><br />I have started running my Saturday long runs with my neighbor, also a gazelle and a very fast runner. We ran 14 miles last Saturday. It was great! She has one gear though-fast! We ran 14 miles at a 8:15 pace! It was so challenging. She is great for me though, she helped convince me to try to qualify for New York and I did!<br /><br />Also, Austin has a new grassroots (as they call it) site to keep you informed about Austin running. <a href="http://www.keepaustinrunning.org/">http://www.keepaustinrunning.org/</a> It has local races posted, favorite running routes, info about the city council task force on road closures and much, much more. Check it out!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-4524917513621171072008-08-29T12:55:00.000-07:002008-09-04T11:42:12.668-07:00Back to Gazelles Workout!Well, with the start of the new school year, I have gotten back on track with my training. I ran with <a href="http://www.gilbertsgazelles.com/index.php">Gilbert's Gazelles </a>on Wednesday. We ran a 7 mile Fartleck, so it was one minute of speed and 1 minute of rest 10 times. It was a difficult workout for me, since I haven't done much speed workout all summer (3 months!). It was so hot and humid that morning! I did a Runner's conditioning class afterward and was totally dead, but still eeked out a 600 yard swim at <a href="http://www.deepeddy.org/pool.html">Deep Eddy Pool</a>. As you can imagine, I was pretty tired and hungry, but felt good that I had such a good workout.<br /><br />I so enjoyed getting back into my group of running friends. I love hearing about all of our kids in school and what has been going on.hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1967835918530677212.post-83715101321324900822008-08-24T17:09:00.000-07:002008-08-24T17:40:54.829-07:00Reason for choosing to RUN a MarathonEvery marathoner has been asked "WHY do you run marathons?" I have a lot of reasons, one of my reasons is that I love the feeling of the accomplishment. President John F. Kennedy's quote "We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard" sums it up. No matter how many marathons I have run, I still have a hard time getting myself to do my long runs, get up early for my long runs, do my speed work, eat well most of the time, and register (commit) to the race. It is so worth is after the long runs and especially after the marathon. I do not always run the race in the expected time (sometimes I surpass it), but it is always an experience that makes me feel so good afterwards.<br /><br />For anyone reading this that is not a marathoner, I have to say that I felt this way with the numerous 5K and 10K's that I did when I started running. I still enjoy the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">k's</span> and 10<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">k's</span> because it is still a challenge to figure out what pace to run and just get the whole race "right". My favorite race distance is a half-marathon. If you are trying to get yourself to work out (or run) <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">consistently</span>, you should register for a race a couple months out. It does wonders for your motivation and self esteem. Start out with a 5K, then go to a 10K and then a half-marathon. It is great to surprise and amaze yourself!!hillcountryfamilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16822938765380453446noreply@blogger.com0