Be The Change | Till Then Smile Often

August 21, 2013

Weight Training Eats

Happy Hump Day!! I can’t believe it is already Wednesday but I am a little excited this week is halfway over! I also have to confess that I have thought long and hard about the half-marathon I am signed up for in September and I have made the tough decision to not race this year. I have been having a lot of pain in my right knee due to a previous injury and it is sucking the joy out of running. I dread running now versus enjoying it for the quiet time that it used to be. I hate to feel like a quitter but I need to to remember that if I keep damaging it, healing won’t happen. So it is still on my bucket list and hopefully I can still do a race next year. So will that goal out of reach at the moment I am going back to heavy weight training and HIIT workouts. So the following are my eats to help support the growing muscles!

Breakfast: – 1 scoop protein powder ~ 12-16 oz water and 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk ~ 2 teaspoon natural peanut butter ~ ½ banana ~ 1 tbsp of flax oil ~ ½ cup frozen strawberries (recycled image)

Snack: 3/4 cup of liquid egg whites, 1/2 a banana, 1 slice of Ezekial Toast and an Iced coffee.

Lunch: 4 oz chicken breast ~ ½ medium sweet potato ~ ½ cup Broccoli ~ ½ grapefruit with one packet of Splenda

Snack p.m.: 5 oz Chobani 0% plain Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of Sugar-free jello powder ~ 1 scoop protein in 12-16 oz of water ~ 5 almonds

Dinner: 1/2 cup of Whole Grain Brown Rice ~ roughly 1/2 cup of Broccoli ~ 4 oz of Kielbasa ~ topped with my Homemade Pasta Sauce. For the recipe click here.

So it is not that different from what I normally eat but I did add in a little more protein and a little bit of healthy carbs like sweet potato and brown rice.

What have you been eating?

August 20, 2013

Homemade Pasta Sauce

Last week Beth from Clothes and Cocktails share her Homemade Spaghetti Sauce and I mentioned that I hadn’t made mine in awhile. It took me 4-5 tries to get it how I wanted it to taste. So she suggested that I post my recipe this week. Please note that this is my basic sauce/gravy and that I will add things as needed. I don’t add meat to this sauce because I will use this sauce for multiple dishes so if I want to I will add meat and sausage later.

Ingredients: 5 – 15 oz cans of Contandina Sauce with Italian Herbs ~ 1 – 18 oz can of Contandina Tomato Paste ~ 1-1/2 cup water ~ 1 TBSP Garlic – chopped ~ 1 Cup Sugar – I use Truvia or Splenda ~ 1/2 Green Pepper cut in large strips ~ 1 TBSP Red Hot Buffalo Sauce ~ 2 TBSP Coarse Salt ~ 1/2 tsp pepper ~ 1/2 tsp onion powder ~ 2 Bay leaves

*NOTE: I am not a fan of green peppers cooked or raw, I add them for flavor only! So don’t be afraid if you don’t like them either.

Directions: Place all ingredients into a crockpot or in large saucepan on the stove.

Simmer on low for 4-6 hours. Stir and taste ever hour or so. Adjust as needed to taste.

If too sweet add a tad bit more salt or sugar. If too thick add a 1/2 cup more water. Once it is finished simmering replace from heat and remove the two bay leaves and green peppers.

It took me a few tries to get the ratio of ingredients correct, but even then I adjust almost everytime. Usually only a pinch here or there, but it depends on what recipe I am making. I have used this for the sauce in lasagna, on spaghetti squash, to baked chicken (really helps to tenderize it). This time I served it with 1/2 cup of rice, handful of Broccoli and Linguica.

Linking up with Jessica and Ashley.

August 18, 2013

Weekend of Rest? Yeah right!

Another weekend sadly comes to a close, though I have to say this one was extremely busy so I maybe actually be looking forward to the work week so I get to actually rest.

Saturday: I spent the morning shopping for the bathroom. I went to A.C. Moore to pick up a picture frame, Lowes to pick up some shelves, and Target for some bathroom accessories. After getting home I put the print that I got from Monorail Studios into the frame and hung the sand dollars with Command Picture hanging strips. bathroom-1

I had to head back to Target to return some of the stuff I got. It just didn’t coordinate how I had hoped but I did find some cute boots.

Then I got to putting the shelves up.

bathroom-2

I still have to find a few items since I am not completely happy with how it looks. I want a few more white colored accessories I just couldn’t find anything I wanted yet.

Since it took most of the day to finish, I spent the rest of the night putting everything away and cleaning my house. It seriously needed it since I have kind of neglected it the past few weeks. Then I spent some time snuggling with Seamus.

For some reason he is really drawn to this little mat by the door. It is really small but he tries really hard to fit his body on the whole mat but it doesn’t really work!

Sunday: I spent a little time in the morning with my coffee and some snuggles with Seamus.

He really is the best snuggler! I finished up the dishes, went grocery shopping, mowed my lawn, weeded my front flower bed, and cut the trees back that were overhanging the driveway. After all that it was a little bit of rest time. So sorry there are so many pics of Seamus but really that tongue hanging out was just too much cuteness!!

I took a 45 minute nap then did some food prep. I then watched a boat load of Lifetime movies while parking my butt on the couch! Man I was exhausted!

How was your weekend? Any fun adventures?

Linking up with Sami at Sami’s Shenanigans and Leann at Join the Gossip .

August 18, 2013

Sunshine Award and Following Up

So a few weeks ago I shared that I was nominated for the Liebster award and I nominate some of my favorite up and coming bloggers. Well … LaDawn from the Daybreak Bird decided to be cheeky and sent some follow up questions back to me. I deleted any duplicate questions.

1. Do you have any siblings? Yes both older Sister and Brother.
2. Favourite meal? I really like salad. I know weird but it’s true.
4. Do you have a go-to outfit? Currently a maxi shirt or dress, though I will add a scarf to any outfit.
5. Best book you’ve read recently. I read 2-3 books a week so it is hard to pick a favorite but Live Wire by Harlan Coben was pretty good.
6. A pet peeve. People who are always late.
10. How many cups of coffee do you drink a day? I limit myself to one.
11. What accomplishment are you most proud of? Completing 7 triathlons. Each one was tough and challenging but some people didn’t believe I could finish it and it was such an amazing feeling crossing that finish line.

Then I saw that Kim from Racing Bananas nominated me for a Sunshine Award!!

About the award:

The award is circulated to those bloggers to let them know that their posts brighten your day.

Rules: 1. Include award logo in a post or on your blog 2. Link to the person who nominated you – Kim at Racing Bananas 3. Answer 10 questions about yourself.

sunshine

1. Why did you start your blog? I really was inspired by reading other blogs and the connections that they made with each other. I love being able to document the recipes I have tried, crafts I have completed, struggles I have had in hopes that others will want to try them or share their struggles too.
2. What is your favorite way to stay active and why do you love it? I love strength training. Seeing how hard I can push my muscles and how heavy I can go.
3. Coffee or tea? Coffee for sure!
4. Favorite movie or all time? Really like Boondock Saints (its a little dark but Norman Reedus and Sean Patrick Flannery – nuff said) for light hearted Elf
5. What is your favorite way to stay active in the winter (if you live in a cold weather state?) I really want to learn to snowboard but for now weight training in the gym works year round
6. What is the best thing you’ve done this summer? This is kinda sad but I can’t think of anything. 🙁 It has been crazy busy but not vey adventurous.
7. What is your dream occupation (if money, school, etc wasn’t a factor)? I would open a Doggy Daycare
8. What is your favorite way to spend the weekend? My weekdays are super busy so I like to spend the weekends really low key, no schedule, nothing to do. This works out half the time, the other times I am scrambling to get a million things done!
9. Who inspires you? Everyone!! Some inspire me to be happier, some to workout harder, some to try something new and exciting.
10. What is your favorite quote? “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far once can go.” – T.S. Eliot

Thanks to LaDawn and Kim for showing some love! Hope this helps get to know me a little better. Hope my blog brings a little sunshine to your day!

Who inspires you?

What sort of adventures have you completed this summer?

August 16, 2013

These Five Things

Happy Friday!! I only had a 3 day work week but it still felt so long! Isn’t that always the way? Rushing to get it all done. Since Monday and Tuesday was all about my Bathroom renovation I didn’t have a ton of time to do all the regular house cleaning so I am way behind. Hopefully I will get caught up this weekend.

On to 5 on Friday where I share 5 things… any 5 things that I am doing, loving, want, basically whatever I want.

One. This bathroom renovation is almost done. I posted a few previews on Instragram, but for those who are not following me, here is Stage 1 of the renovation.

After Stage 1

I have some shelving to hang, a DIY project to update my Magnetic Makeup Board and some pictures and other small organizing items to put in the room.

Two. After Seamus had his annual vet appointment he needs to lose 1-2 pounds so I am taking him for a walk in the mornings. I am totally shuffeling my feet and rubbing my eyes the whole time but I do have to say I enjoy the quietness of the morning.

Three. This dress. I die it is so cute!! The Black and Tan is perfect for Fall.

Chic Shirt Dress

Four. I really do not like the arm bands for the iPhones. They tend to slide down my arm. I like my arms free so this is the perfect alternative.

Running Belt Tutorial

Five. It has been really hard to find a local stylist to cut my hair. I am a little particular about my hair as I think it is one of my better qualities. Needless to say my last expereince was not good and I almost left the salon before the cut was even completed. I went to a new salon based on a recommendation from a friend and I loved it!! She did exactly what I wanted and I am loving it so far! Not to bad considering I am not wearing makeup thanks to my painting marathon.

What five things are you loving?

Do you have a hairstylist that you love?

August 14, 2013

Not really Vacation eats

Considering that I was on a mini-vacation from Friday to Tuesday my eats were all over the place. Saturday was Seamus’ vet visit and I was on the road most of the day. Sunday we celebrated my cousin’s daughter graduation from High School and her basic training send off. Monday and Tuesday I spent all day painting and re-decorating my main bathroom. This made getting in my regular meals quite a challenge. Also I made it through the first two weeks of limited carbs so now I am moving on to a little higher carb count and finding the balance of the right carb zone my body can handle before it starts to gain. So you will see a little more good carbs added back in. Yeah for some fruit!

Breakfast: At Seamus’ vet appointment I found out he gained one pound over the year so he is going to boot camp. So morning walks are going to be added and our afternoon walks will be longer, so my lack of functioning in the morning means I am sticking with my trusty protein shake for now. For the recipe click here.

Snack: I am reintroducing my apple and walnuts or almonds for my midmorning snack. Oh, how I have missed my apple. (recycled pic, I didn’t have the peanut butter since I already had it with my protein shake)

Lunch: I had to grab a quick salad before getting back to painting. So the quickest thing to make is a salad with some pre-cooked chicken. I happen to really like salad so it is a win/win for me!

Dinner: This is my idea or not so “Parm” – Chicken Parm. I didn’t want to bread the chicken so I grilled some chicken with some garlic powder, onion powder, and italian seasoning. Then I placed the chicken on a pizza tray and added some low carb pasta sauce and a slice of Mozzarella cheese (fold in half and place on the diagonal to cover the chicken) then stuck under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until melted. Keep an eye on it, it goes quick!

I served with Steamfresh lightly sauced creamed spinach.

I am human and I have to admit I did have a slice of some Grasshopper pie that I made for the graduation party on Sunday. I have to say it was totally worth it. It is one of my favorites. It is Pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, and Cool Whip. For the recipe click here.

How do you eat on vacation? Do you splurge or do you eat the same?

August 12, 2013

Grasshopper Pie

I am not sure where this pie recipe originally came from but my Mom used to make this when I was younger. I love Pistachios so this pie is one of my favorites. It also is very easy to make so it is perfect to make when you are in a rush and not sure what to make. This Sunday I had a family get together to celbrate my cousin’s daughter. We celbrated her high school graduation and her send off to Basic Training for the Army. It can be mistaken for Key Lime Pie due to the color so I would suggest putting a tag if bringing to a party, once people knew it was Pistachio not key lime they were more willing to give it a go.

Ingredients: 1 (12 oz) can of Crushed Pineapple ~ 1 Box of Pistachio Pudding ~ 1 (12oz) tub of Cool Whip ~ Graham Cracker pie crust

Directions: Place the crushed pineapple and the pistachio pudding powder in a mixing bowl.

Place half of the tub of the Cool Whip in the bowl and mix.

Place the mixture into the Graham Cracker pie crust form.

Place the pie in the fridge for 2-4 hours or overnight to firm. When ready to serve place the other half of the Cool Whip on top and spread over the top. Serve!

What do you think, going to try it?

Linking up with Jessica and Ashley.

August 12, 2013

What Weekend

So I am a realy bad blogger and took very few pictures. I woulld feel guilty but I am on mini-vacation.

Saturday morning was spent at the Vet for Seamus’ annual visit. The appointment was at 9:45 but he didn’t get seen until 10:45am. It was crazy busy and Seamus was moping.

I then headed over to my Dad’s for a bit to say hello and so his dog and Seamus could play. Once back home it was a Netflix marathon of Orange is the new black. In between each episode I clean my bathrooms, did laundry, dishes and swept the floors. Relaxing but effective.

I then made a Grasshopper pie for my Cousin’s Graduation/Basic training send off, which is made with Pistachio pudding mix. It was something my Mom used to make and it is really quick and easy. Recipe coming soon.

Sunday I hit the pavement for a run, and I am trying out a few different fuel sources. I will keep you posted. I ended up getting these as Sports Authority since my Vitamin Shoppe seems to have moved. 🙁

As I was heading out for the Graduation party I found Seamus here:

SO needless to say i am glad I have today and tomorrow off even though I will be spending it prepping and painting my bathroom. Ugh!!! Also planning on getting in my long run today. Wish me luck!!

Linking up with Sami at Sami’s Shenanigans and Leann at Join the Gossip .

August 9, 2013

Waiting | Wishing | Hoping

Happy Friday everyone!!! I am so excited for this weekend!! I have a four day weekend!! I have to take Seamus for his annual vet visit on Saturday and my cousin’s daughter has her graduation party and Boot Camp send off on Sunday so it will be jammed packed full of activities. I am also hoping to get started on my bathroom redesign so be sure to come back for some before and after pics. Now on to what I am loving lately.

One. Did you see my post yesterday? It showed my Dead of the Dead makeup that I did for Halloween for the last two years. I think this year I need to come up with a new costume so the search is on. I know it’s only August but it’s time. Oh and decorations, yup I will be sure doing some DIY projects coming up. Like figuring out how to recreate this since there are no directions.

sorry, no directions or what was used, but super cool & creepy!

Halloween Decoration – Hands of the Dead

Two. With Halloween comes fall and let me tell you summer was a bit dissapointing due to the crappy weather so I am keeping my head up for fall. My favorite! So I am on the hunt for some new tall boots.

In love with Fall

Three. Did I mention that it is my Birthday at the end this month? Yeah it is. So I am wishing for…this candle, or a million bucks. Whichever comes first! 😉

Spiced Cider 6 oz. Mason Jar Candle - Slatkin & Co. - Bath & Body Works

Spiced Cider from Bath and Body Works

Four. I am hoping to hit my 6 miles for my long run this weekend. My training for the half-marathon has been pitiful and I only have just over 6 weeks to get ready. Eeeekkkk!! Hoping that these help to fuel this run and don’t make e sick. Trying to find a good fuel source. First up is the Clif Shot Bloks. I’ll let you know what I think once I try them.

Five. I am on the look out for some floating shelves for the bathroom and found some from Target. Not sure if they will work or if I need to keep looking.

Chicago Floating Shelf from Target

What are you loving lately?

Any runners have a favorite energy source for long runs?

August 8, 2013

I’d Like To Thank The Academy

Recently I was nominated for a Liebster Award by Sarah of Sweet Happenings. . The Liebster Award is given to up and coming bloggers with less then 200 followers and it also helps them gain some exposure in the blogging world!

The questions I was given to answer:

1. What’s your favourite season and why? I love the fall. I love the weather when it is not to hot and not to cold, and the chance to wear boots and scarves. I also love watching the leaves turn colors here in Massachusetts, it’s so pretty. It is also my favorite Holiday Season. I love Halloween and I always dress up to pass out the candy at my Dad’s House. Picture from last year’s Day of the Dead costume.

2. What’s your biggest fear? Snakes. They are just nasty.

3. Least favourite food? I really don’t like Seafood. I know being from the Northeast it should be illegal but I just don’t like it. Tuna is about all I can stomach.

4. Nysnc or Backstreet Boys? Neither really. I did like N’Sync more though back in the day.

5. Renting a movie or going to a movie? I so prefer to watch a movie at home. Being able to cuddle up on the couch in my pajamas is preferable.

6. What’s your favourite song at the moment? I am loving Miss Jackson by Panic at the Disco. I seriously play it like 10+ times a day. Check it out.

7. If you could live in any city in the world right now, where would it be and why? Since as long as I can remember I have been drawn to Texas. I just love Southern Hospitality and everyone I have met from there has been so genuinely nice. So Houston or Dallas but I would not move far from family so maybe when I retire or just for visits.

8. Tea or coffee? I am a coffee girl. Dunkin Donuts over Starbucks but I usually make my own. I used Sugar Free French Vanilla creamer and Truvia.

9. Favourite book? On the Road by Jack Kerouac – I read it every year. That generation knew how to live!! They were always on a Vision Quest for the soul. It speaks to me.

10.Most memorable trip? I would have to say our yearly trip to Christmas by the Sea in Maine. It is with my second Mom and my two best friends. Sometimes Grammy comes and their SIL. The more the merrier but most important it is a girls weekend. We get most of our Christmas shopping done and we get in the Christmas spirit and when we get together we laugh so hard and so often. It is the best time. Santa comes over on a tugboat too.

11.How would you describe your decorating style? It is so important to me to have a home that is inviting. No white rooms that are for display only. I stick to more Modern/Contemporary styles. I like simple and not a lot of clutter.

Here are the rules for receiving this award:
1. Answer the questions that the nominator sets for you, and then create 11 questions for the people you’ve tagged to answer.
2. Choose 11 people and link them in your post (must have less than 200 followers)
3. Go to their page and tell them.

The questions to answer:

1. What is your favorite color?

2. Favorite store to shop at (online or in-store)?

3. Favorite Holiday?

4. Fondest memory?

5. An item on your bucket list?

6. Place you most want to visit?

7. What is your favorite recipe/comfort food?

8. How often do you workout?

9. Celebrity Crush?

10. The wierdest food you have ever eaten?

11. Must Have Makeup Item

Thanks again to Sarah for nominating me! Here is to one more day till Friday!

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