Breakfast

The Big Apple

October 3, 2010
By

I think I might be getting the hang of this taper business.  I am enjoying a quintessential fall Sunday in New England.  I started with an exceptionally tasty breakfast.

The apples are just too good to ignore.  I topped a simple batch of stovetop oats with hot, sweet, cinnamon apples.  They gave the usual banana a run for it’s money!  I love the sweetness of warm, cooked fruit.

It was the perfect way to begin an apple-filled day!  Today, I made the annual trip to The Big Apple.

This local farm is an attraction for everyone – children, family, puppies!

It’s sprawling with acres of apple trees, corn fields, and fresh vegetable gardens.  There were plenty of bright orange pumpkins setting the scene.

I’m not quite ready to carve a pumpkin, but bring on the apples!

Yes, please!  I love watching all the behind-the-scenes action on the farm.

The apple grader sorts the apples as the come off the orchard, while the bakers work to perfect their warm donuts.

As a kid, I always got a warm donut and a candy apple from The Big Apple. I broke tradition today, but that’s OK!  Kettle corn was calling me.

Fresh kettle corn was perfect for munching as I walked through the farm.  I loved watching the families, the little faces lighting up as they selected perfect pumpkins and ate homemade ice cream.

Happy Sunday!

What is your favorite fall activity? Fall is one of my favorite times of year, especially in New England.  I love the colored leaves, the apple picking, and the hot cider.  It’s a great time to be outside!

I Come Running Back

October 2, 2010
By

…with great news!  The stars aligned.  The weather was perfect.  And I ran….I ran so far away…Flock of Seagulls, anyone?  Anyone?  Maybe I do still have a shot on Don’t Forget the Lyrics!

I digress.  I’m just in a really good mood because I ran! The last two days were rest days because my foot hurt.  Hal said I should run 12 miles today.  I said I should run 10.  My friend was running 10 and I made plans to join her.  I had no low expectations.  I wore my favorite compression sleeves and supportive pair of Brooks.

I had no pain when I woke up.  That was a good sign!  I met Lolly at the gym.  I warned her that I might not make it.  I had my cell phone.  I planned to call for help if I needed it.

I didn’t need help.  I enjoyed 10 miles on a cool, crisp fall morning.

Total Distance: 10 miles

  • Mile 1 – 9:32/mi
  • Mile 2 – 9:18/mi
  • Mile 3 – 9:21/mi
  • Mile 4 – 9:25/mi
  • Mile 5 – 8:53/mi
  • Mile 6 – 9:21/mi
  • Mile 7 – 9:03/mi
  • Mile 8 – 9:02/mi
  • Mile 9 – 9:31/mi
  • Mile 10 – 9:20/mi

Total Distance: 1:32:50

Average Pace: 9:17/mi

I breathed a huge sigh of relief at the end of the run.  After my freak out last night, a strong run made me see this race as a real possibility.  I’m having a difficult time grasping the whole taper concept, but runs like this keep me energized.

Post-run, I was fairly aggressive with the stretch/roll/ice routine.  Preventative measures!  I have a few other taper tips up my sleeve, too.  I want to keep the body feeling good:

  • Wear supportive shoes. – Goodbye, flip flops!  Hello, Danskos!
  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
  • Keep runs short and sweet.  When in doubt, refer to the elliptical!
  • Harass the heck out of my friends and family. – You know who you are.  I owe you!
  • Eat clean and nutrient-rich foods.

On that note, let’s refuel!

How autumnal!  A bowl of pumpkin oats, eaten among the falling leaves.  I made sure to cover all the nutritional bases with this recovery meal:

  • 1/3 c. oats
  • 1/3 c. organic skim milk
  • 1/3 c. water
  • 1/4 c. egg whites
  • 1/4 c. canned pumpkin
  • 1/2 T. chia seeds
  • cinnamon
  • Toppings: Barney Butter and cranberries

I’m ready to put my feet up and relax the day away.  Maybe I overreacted…and gave you all a little taste of my craziness.  Regardless, I sincerely appreciate the positive vibes that were sent to my aching foot.  The power of positive thinking worked its magic.  Thank you!

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