tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77244320489262279042024-03-13T16:20:22.380-04:00Confessions of a City EaterA City Girl's Guide to Eating and LivingStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04493527210323265587noreply@blogger.comBlogger1459125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7724432048926227904.post-68709553567068760172015-02-10T09:48:00.001-05:002015-02-10T09:48:29.420-05:00Race Recap: Miami MarathonIt's been three weeks since the Miami Marathon and I told myself I wouldn't post about it until I was mentally over it. Truth is, I thought I was mentally over it after a week, but then the exhaustion and low motivation set in that was reminiscent of post-Chicago Marathon life. Marathons take a lot out of a person, both emotionally and physically, and the Miami Marathon was no different.<br />
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The Miami Marathon was actually a race I had been avoiding. I've done the half marathon twice in the past and was always afraid of the full because of the low crowd support and low number of participants that's really noticeable when the full and the half marathoners break off. I think I needed a race like Chicago to ease me into marathon running because the race is grand on so many levels and I didn't really feel or process those 26.2 miles with all the visual distractions. But, I knew I had to conquer Miami because that is my hometown race and the course is something I have ran so many times as part of my training for other races.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16247525227" title="IMG_5055 by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5055" height="400" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8568/16247525227_20392cdab9.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
So, come race day I had two goals: help pace a friend to a sub-2:30 half marathon and finish with a smile. Both goals were accomplished and I felt so proud of myself for having finished another marathon. It wasn't as emotional as the first, but it was still special because I conquered something other than the distance: my fear of running a "small" marathon.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16245757218" title="IMG_5057 by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5057" height="400" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/16245757218_35f9a85174.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16247525227" title="IMG_5055 by steppystar, on Flickr"></a> </div>
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I think they said that out of the 25,000 participants only 3,000 were running the marathon and you could really notice the difference during the second half of the race. The first half went by quickly as I had my friend with me and as there was so much to see between the runners, the crowd support, and the city itself. The second half of the race felt like the smaller, more hometown races I've done where you run through neighborhoods and there's always another running in sight, but never enough runners where you feel like you were in a "big" race. Does that make sense?<br />
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Either way, during the second part of the race I was so grateful that I did most of my long-run training alone because my brain knew that I if I had it in me to run 22 miles alone, I had it in me to run 13.1 miles alone. I chose to keep up the pace I kept during the first half of the race because I hadn't ran in heat in a long time and I wanted to be mindful of the needs of my body during a "hot" run (it was actually beautiful Miami weather). With that said, cold fruit and cold beer between miles 21 and 22 were the best thing ever.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16245757218" title="IMG_5057 by steppystar, on Flickr"><br /></a> </div>
My legs started to feel the pain of running the marathon around mile 20, but I just kept moving. It makes me laugh to think of all the things I said to myself during the race to keep myself moving. The biggest help for me is to always set a mark, or set my eyes on a person that I want to keep up with and possibly pass. Miles 24-26 were a blur, but I do remember that feeling of accomplishment and badassery when I finished. Very few things compare to the feeling you get when you realize that your body moved for 26.2 miles, regardless of the time it took you to cover that distance. <br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16247196889" title="IMG_5072 by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5072" height="400" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7455/16247196889_4946437974.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Anyway, much like my brain during the marathon, my brain right now is all over the place and all jumbled up from the experience of running 26.2 miles in my hometown. I don't think I'll do the marathon again simply, but who knows? I can tell you that I am looking to keep this race my annual tradition and I'm ready to be Miami Famous in 2016 again!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/16433423955" title="IMG_5109 by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5109" height="400" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7417/16433423955_09a2b6033f.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
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Now the focus is on training for my 50k Ultra Marathon in March! For more on my training and the ways I'm staying strong as I train, follow along on Instagram <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="color: #23abc4; text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;">.</span></span><span style="color: #404040;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
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</script></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04493527210323265587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7724432048926227904.post-64442508596436446032015-01-22T09:08:00.002-05:002015-01-22T09:08:23.893-05:00Polar Dash Race RecapI feel as if my 15-mile <a href="http://www.chicagopolardash.org/splash.html">Polar Dash</a> race was months ago. It was actually just two weeks ago, but with work and parenthood, the days zoom on by. I signed up for this race back in the fall thinking it would be a great race to push me into getting those miles in as I train for the <a href="http://www.themiamimarathon.com/">Miami Marathon</a>. What I didn't realize back then was that I wouldn't really start training for the marathon until the winter and this race would be my long run as I work my way up to 22 miles, instead of it being a "low" mileage run between two longer runs. Oops!<br />
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Anyway, come race day it is COLD outside. As in the temperature was in the teens and it felt like it was in the negative. I knew I needed to get the run in because my motivation would be very low to do 15 miles on the treadmill, so I layered up like I have never layered up before. I barely made it to the start line on time because my taxi left me and I ended up having to drive to the race. This was probably a blessing because it meant I was warmed up from having to rush!<br />
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The race itself was almost a straight shot along the lake and the miles passed by comfortably. My only complaint was that it was so cold my butt hurt for the first 5 miles of the race. All I could think about was my butt and the numbing feeling that wouldn't go away. It eventually went away and I was able to finish the race without feeling like my butt froze over.<br />
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While it was cold, I'm so happy I did the race and was able to push myself out of my comfort zone to get my miles in and stick to my modified training schedule. I felt so awesome and unstoppable after running this race. I also questioned my sanity a bit! It takes a little bit of madness to go out there and run in those cold conditions.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4SC-1gVnJw/VMEDq9EAQvI/AAAAAAAABZ4/v2_VS8MhKXY/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4SC-1gVnJw/VMEDq9EAQvI/AAAAAAAABZ4/v2_VS8MhKXY/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a> </div>
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<b>What I liked:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>The course was right along the lake. </li>
<li>The yeti at mile 7.5 was a fun break to the race. </li>
<li>The medal for this race was gorgeous. </li>
<li>Mile markers at every .5 mile mark, which I found helpful because the miles feel eternal for me when it's cold. </li>
<li>Having my packet ahead of time because I registered early.</li>
</ul>
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<b>What I Didn't Like:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><b> </b>Not the race's issue, obviously, but it was cold! I was happy when I finished because I was able to go to my car to heat up. I felt bad for those running the challenges and having to stay outside between challenges. </li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N5gZ7f5YMvk/VMEDq26yfiI/AAAAAAAABZ8/1JhTQNT9cDM/s1600/IMG_3940.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N5gZ7f5YMvk/VMEDq26yfiI/AAAAAAAABZ8/1JhTQNT9cDM/s1600/IMG_3940.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a> </div>
Running in the cold is a very humbling experience. Having ran in the extreme heat, I would say that running in the extreme cold is just as hard. It takes a lot of mental grit to get through runs in the cold and the heat.<br />
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I get to test that grit again this weekend with the <a href="http://www.themiamimarathon.com/">Miami Marathon</a>! I can't believe race weekend is finally here. My goal for this race is to enjoy it with all my friends that I haven't seen since I left Miami in July and finish with a smile. Wish me luck!<br />
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For more on my marathon weekend, follow along on Instagram <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="color: #23abc4; text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;">.</span></span><span style="color: #404040;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span>I promise there will be fun stuff on there!<br />
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Here's a secret: saying you want to run with me or miss running with me are two of the best things I could ever hear and will automatically make me want to hug you.<br />
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This race looked like fun and it seemed like a great way to get in the holiday spirit. I didn't have an ugly sweater so I sent my dad on the task of going to thrift stores to find sweaters. There wasn't much by the time he went shopping, but I'm still proud of my surprisingly heavy floral sweater. This race took me a little bit back because we did the race with my girls and the stroller (my girls were with me during my very first 5K). The difference with this race is that my oldest ran/walked most of it! I was so, so proud of that girl. She looked beautiful and strong running the course.<br />
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Aside from that, it was really fun seeing all the sweaters on the course. I must have bad taste because I didn't think any of the sweaters were ugly; they were all so much fun to me! But then again, I am the type of person who likes to wear character socks year round.<br />
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<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Running with my family. My dad is awesome and my Oldest makes me heart swell with pride. </li>
<li>Fast packet pickup.</li>
<li>Fun beanie. </li>
<li>All the sweaters. </li>
<li>Meeting up with Instagram running friends afterward. </li>
<li>Course on the lakefront. </li>
<li>Stroller- and pet-friendly course. </li>
<li>Free beer!</li>
</ul>
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<b>What I Didn't Like:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>That part of the course that went through mud and gravel? Not fun with a stroller. </li>
<li>Hot chocolate given out on the course was watery. </li>
<li>No medal (I know, I know, but I love medals).</li>
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Debating whether I want to sign up for a New Year's Day race or not. If not, then my next race is January 11th's Polar Dash. I've ran in 30-degree weather so I'm hoping it's not colder than that because I'm signed up for 15 miles! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;">For more on my running, follow me on Instagram </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="color: #23abc4; text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #404040; line-height: 18px;">.</span></span><br />
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</script></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04493527210323265587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7724432048926227904.post-11608859253413786182014-12-26T23:26:00.001-05:002014-12-26T23:26:59.672-05:00Race Recap: Grant Park Turkey TrotThis post should actually be called "Better Late Than Never" because the <a href="http://www.allcommunityevents.com/turkey_trot_Chicago/grant_park_turkey%20Trot_home.html">Grant Park Turkey Trot </a>was November 29, 2014. I signed up for this race on a last-minute whim because I figured it would be the only time I would actually be able to run a "turkey trot" since the race took place on a Saturday. You see, I refuse to run a race on Thanksgiving because that's my absolute favorite holiday and I love spending the day in the kitchen. My day starts at 7am and the food is ready for a late lunch (and even later dinner!). Running just isn't part of my plan for the day. What can I say? I love to run, but Thanksgiving is the exception.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the only picture from race day. Oops!</td></tr>
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I wasn't running this race for time. After Chicago, most of my runs have been about feel and just running to run. Training for a marathon is life changing in so many ways and, while I still have dreams of qualifying for Boston, I am more into enjoying the run and the time I get to myself to be myself. So, this run was all about enjoying the run and the crowd and finishing with a smile. I ran 10 miles prior to the race as part of my training for Miami Marathon so I was already in my running groove by the time the race started. Running on the lakefront is my favorite place to run, so I was happy we spent part of the race running there. Overall, it was a fun race and I'm happy I finally participated in a turkey trot!<br />
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<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The fleece is awesome. </li>
<li>I liked everything about the course, except for the last 1/2 mile or so that I felt like I just ran a circle. </li>
<li>Snacks at the end. </li>
<li>Hot cider at the end. </li>
<li>Reasonably priced. </li>
<li>Saturday event. </li>
<li>Chicago skyline on the medal. </li>
<li>The oatmeal sample they gave out in the goodie bag was the bomb. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>What I Didn't Like:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Packet pickup was a disaster. I have never waited as long as I did to get my packet. The wait was so long that Road Runner Sports was even raffling off items every 10 minutes. I still don't understand why the wait was so long. </li>
<li>Last 1/2 mile of the course because of the looping feeling. </li>
<li>Packet pickup. It was really awful. </li>
</ul>
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Next up, race recap for The Ugly Sweater Run! For more on my running, follow me on Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner">@thecookierunner</a>.</div>
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</script></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04493527210323265587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7724432048926227904.post-64508279095666652972014-12-08T00:42:00.002-05:002014-12-08T00:48:57.364-05:00Got My Fitness On: ClassPass Chicago Review<a href="http://confessionsofcityeater.blogspot.com/2014/10/getting-my-fitness-on-classpass-chicago.html">My month-long ClassPass membership </a>has come to an end and it's time to review this membership program. I originally wanted to try <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> because I liked the flexibility of membership in terms of the variety of studios included and because ClassPass has the almost-magical ability to centralize everything into one website. With that said, here are the pros and cons of <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a>:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M4EBF_B8f9c/VIU5eeIDZ5I/AAAAAAAABYA/8CR09FXNJ7Y/s1600/Picture%2B1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M4EBF_B8f9c/VIU5eeIDZ5I/AAAAAAAABYA/8CR09FXNJ7Y/s1600/Picture%2B1.png" height="185" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<b>PRO: CLASS PAGE/RESERVATION SYSTEM</b><br />
This right here is my absolute favorite part about <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a>: you log on, click on "classes," and every single class offering at every studio participating in ClassPass is right there before your eyes. To make it even better, you can filter the class search by time, location, and activity and you can reserve your spot in the class up to seven days in advance. Their reservation system is easy to use and I really can't say enough about how much I loved seeing everything on one page. After you register for a class, you are given the option to put the
class information into your calendar. As someone who, at times, feels
married to her calendar, this was helpful. <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> also does a great
job of sending confirmation and reminder emails for your registered
classes. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hErzrz93JjE/VIU5HpCt_hI/AAAAAAAABXQ/exGfFSbTJkc/s1600/IMG_0013.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hErzrz93JjE/VIU5HpCt_hI/AAAAAAAABXQ/exGfFSbTJkc/s1600/IMG_0013.PNG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>CON: CLASS PAGE</b><br />
The only hiccup I had with the classes page was that if I clicked on a class to read more about the class and then went back, I lost all my filters and the class page would revert back to the closest day to your search. So, for instance, if it was November 20th and I was looking at classes for November 23rd between 5:00pm to 7:00pm and I clicked on a class and tried to go back to my original search, I would lose all the filters and the search would revert back to November 20th or 21st classes.<br />
<br />
<b>PRO: CLASS PAGE</b><br />
Every class had a description and every studio had links to social media. If you clicked on a studio, it would show you the line up of classes at the studio for the week. If you clicked on a specific class, it would show you when the class was being offered again. There were even teacher bios for some of the students.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>PRO: RESERVATION SYSTEM</b><br />
You can plan out your whole week in workouts with <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a>. Before my first week of trying ClassPass, I spent Sunday night looking up different classes and planning out my workout. I loved that I was able to do this and actually became a little obsessed with checking <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> daily to see if there were any classes available during unexpected openings in my schedule.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_AzsozLSgc/VIU5HmF_bgI/AAAAAAAABXU/V5i3lqb7uKY/s1600/IMG_0014.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_AzsozLSgc/VIU5HmF_bgI/AAAAAAAABXU/V5i3lqb7uKY/s1600/IMG_0014.PNG" height="400" width="300" /></a> </div>
<b> </b><br />
<b>CON: RESERVATION SYSTEM</b><br />
The only thing I didn't like about <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> and, it has more to do with my lifestyle, than the membership itself was that your classes <b>must</b> be planned ahead of time, at least 2 hours before the class start time. Like I said above, I would have unexpected pockets of time open up and I was never able to take advantage of that free time with a class because I missed the cutoff for signing up for the class. I understand that ClassPass has to release the spots so that others can take advantage of the classes, but still. It was because of this that I wasn't able to take advantage of <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> as much as I would have wanted.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>PRO: CHECKING IN</b><br />
Checking in at the studios was easy peasy. I still had to fill out new student forms and sign liability waivers, but other than that, there was no delay in getting myself checked in and working out.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>PRO: STUDIO AND CLASS VARIETY</b><br />
With over 50 studios offering classes in everything from yoga to strength training, <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> offers you the best variety possible. I prefer yoga, so most of the classes that I tried were yoga-focused, but even so, there was so much variety of style and environment. I loved being able to preview and try all the different studios in Chicago.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kka88wsHQ6U/VIU5U_AMApI/AAAAAAAABXs/NxDItQ5y3Ew/s1600/IMG_0361.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kka88wsHQ6U/VIU5U_AMApI/AAAAAAAABXs/NxDItQ5y3Ew/s1600/IMG_0361.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a> </div>
<b> </b><br />
<b>PRO: CLASSES WERE AWESOME!</b><br />
What a great group of studios on <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a>. I took classes at The Dailey Method, Moksha, AIR, Body R&D, CorePower Yoga, YogaSix, Zen Yoga Garage, and Core Chicago Pilates and loved all of them. Again, I loved being able to take classes at all the different studios, instead of having to pay the $15-$20 per class I would have had to pay if I would have gone to the studios on my own.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>PRO: CLASSPASS PRICE</b><br />
You can't beat $99 a month price tag. Even if all you take is 5 classes a month, you are still getting your money's worth. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>BOTTOM LINE</b><br />
Whoever came up with <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> deserves a prize for coming up with a membership program that is able to attract a great variety of studios to participate and offer its members hundreds of classes a week. There were minor things that I didn't like, but it's not a deal breaker. <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> is made for the person who likes the studio atmosphere, versatility in their workouts, and accessibility to various environments and classes.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFzzTgbqo60/VIU5Uc2r3HI/AAAAAAAABXk/hXD74NaAbvI/s1600/IMG_0452.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFzzTgbqo60/VIU5Uc2r3HI/AAAAAAAABXk/hXD74NaAbvI/s1600/IMG_0452.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a> </div>
For more on ClassPass visit their <a href="http://classpass.com/">website</a>. ClassPass is currently offered in the following cities: Boston, Chicago, NYC, LA, San Francisco, DC, Seattle, San Diego, Portland, Austin, and Dallas. <br />
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<b><i>ClassPass gave me a complimentary month-long membership, but all
the opinions in this post, my review, and on Instagram, <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner">@thecookierunner</a>, are my own. </i></b></div>
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Then, I went to expo and that too threw me off because I was expecting a bigger expo, like the ones I've been to at Disney World. Don't get me wrong, they had everything a person could want out of an expo, but expo is like my playground and I love spending as much time there as possible and I was done with this expo after about half an hour.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ANlIyuLjIig/VG2g6GqN9wI/AAAAAAAABVI/VPr6jS7FZtw/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ANlIyuLjIig/VG2g6GqN9wI/AAAAAAAABVI/VPr6jS7FZtw/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of the things Disneyland has over Disney World is the proximity of everything. That's the perk of being a smaller park! From the expo, which was held at a Disney hotel, I walked through Downtown Disney and straight to the parks. There is one common area that has the entrances to both parks, California Adventure and Disneyland, and this is really convenient for moving between parks, which I did.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RbFYUbr6I5o/VG2g6tRouDI/AAAAAAAABVU/YHvZfHARu6I/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RbFYUbr6I5o/VG2g6tRouDI/AAAAAAAABVU/YHvZfHARu6I/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let me tell you, it was nice going through the parks alone and going through the lines fast as a single rider. I went on a few rides, but mostly I just walked around and enjoyed my mini vacation. What really wowed me about the parks was the "It's A Small World" ride. I can't even begin to describe how beautiful it was lit up and decorated. Seriously, mind-blowingly beautiful.<br />
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Now, on to the race. I'm glad to report that Disney races universally suck with their start time and my first alarm was set for 3:00am for a 5:30am start time. The race itself was ok and, after mile three, felt like a "regular" race. I say this because the first three miles are on Disney grounds and through the parks. After that, you run through Anaheim and Angels stadium and there are no more characters for photos. I know that not everyone does these races to stop and take pictures, but for me, stopping for pictures is part of the fun and part of what helps me get through the distance. I will say that there were a slew of superhero characters between miles 6 and 7 and military characters (where any of them real?) around mile 9, but they didn't feel like official Disney photo ops.<br />
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The wind. If you were at the race or spoke to people who ran the race, you know that the wind was no joke that day. If you haven't heard about it, then let me tell you. The weather was perfect for running in the beginning and was in 60s when the race started for me. About an hour into the race it got really windy. As in, I thought I was going to get blown away by the wind windy. Once the wind started, it seemed like it never ended and the entire time we were running <b>against</b> the wind. The wind was so strong that it even knocked down mile markers along the course. That definitely made for an interesting run! The reunion area was closed off because the wind was knocking things down so everyone was asked to leave as soon as they exited the finisher's area.<br />
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Finishing felt great and finishing always feels great. This race marked half marathon #15 for me and my first time traveling to another state for a race. I can see how taking "racecations" can become addictive!<br />
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<b>What I liked:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The race shirt is long sleeve and awesome. </li>
<li>Running through the Disney parks. </li>
<li>Meeting up with old friends and meeting new ones. </li>
<li>Finisher's medal. </li>
<li>Disney!</li>
<li>Plenty of water on the course and gels at mile 9. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rIY260F4pc/VG2g6DCMiWI/AAAAAAAABVM/SdAuqjoyLGc/s1600/photo%2B2-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rIY260F4pc/VG2g6DCMiWI/AAAAAAAABVM/SdAuqjoyLGc/s1600/photo%2B2-1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>What I didn't like:</b></div>
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<li>The course: again, it felt like a regular race after mile 3. </li>
<li>Expo: bib pickup and shirt pickup where in two different areas. </li>
<li>Start time: I'm a baby and like the extra hours of sleep. </li>
<li>The wind was crummy. </li>
</ul>
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Would I do the race again? I think so, but mostly because I would want to go back to California with the family and have them experience Disneyland, too. I could run other races, but the idea of running the inaugural race and continuing to run over the years (Perfect Superhero?!?) is so enticing!</div>
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My next race is The Ugly Sweater Run on the 29th. I'm debating whether I want to run a Turkey Trot this year so another 5k might be in the mix, too. For more on my fitness and running, follow my on Instagram <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">.</span></span></span></div>
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The week of the race I had been closely watching the weather because I knew that the biggest challenge I might face come race day would be the cold. Sure enough, temperatures for race morning were forecasted to be in the 30s. I had never ran in weather that cold so I didn't know how to prepare. I was laughing at myself as I pulled out all my gear the night before because I didn't think it was possible to run in so many layers. <br />
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Race morning comes, I get dressed, and head out for my run. It was so cold! I don't think I broke a sweat at any point during my run. Thankfully, I wore just enough layers to get me through the run. What struck me the most during those 15K was that I felt like I was running in the trails again. I didn't look at my watch and ran based on feel, but wow, I felt like I was running so much faster and harder than I actually was running.<br />
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Finishing felt amazing and getting my chocolate medal was the best part. Second best was the finisher's mug that was filled with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue, a banana, pretzels, rice krispy treat, and wafer cookies. I say that getting the finisher's mug was second best because it was so cold that the hot chocolate was only hot for about a minute and my fondue was more like those chocolate magic shells that harden on contact with cold ice cream.<br />
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<b>What I liked:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Smooth packet pickup. </li>
<li>Hot chocolate and chocolate-covered marshmallows at the expo. </li>
<li>Zip-up hoodies for participants. </li>
<li>Gear-for-purchase was awesome and I was all over the "will run for chocolate" shirts. </li>
<li>Prompt start time. </li>
<li>Most of the course was good. </li>
<li>Finisher's medal and mug. </li>
<li>Chocolate and marshmallows along the course. </li>
</ul>
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<b>What I didn't like:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>It was cold! </li>
<li>The last .5 mile was dreadful with all the little hills. </li>
<li>The course had some winding that I wasn't crazy about. </li>
<li>No medal for 5K finishers. </li>
</ul>
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Overall, fun race and, if you like chocolate, this is definitely a race to do. I'm still trying to get into a solid training schedule so I hope this weekend's half marathon will help get me back on course. For more on my running and to see all the fun I'm having this weekend, follow me on Instagram <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2DSaWMp01cI/VFmsxzub13I/AAAAAAAABTM/1Ed0hKXG_AM/s1600/IMG_3945.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2DSaWMp01cI/VFmsxzub13I/AAAAAAAABTM/1Ed0hKXG_AM/s1600/IMG_3945.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a> </div>
I decided to use the products as I've used all my other protein powders, in shakes and in my favorite protein bites. I like to drink my protein with almond milk so this is usually my first test of how good a protein powder tastes. I tried the HempPro70 with almond milk and nothing else to see if this protein powder was of the too-sweet or chalky variety. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was not too sweet nor was it chalky. This alone makes me want to continue using Manitoba Harvest because quick and easy protein shakes are a regular part of my diet and I hate those protein powers that are hard to mix and repugnant to drink when not mixed with other things. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keitOzFL03A/VFmsx3yowPI/AAAAAAAABTQ/40RgqfBO7YE/s1600/IMG_4025.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keitOzFL03A/VFmsx3yowPI/AAAAAAAABTQ/40RgqfBO7YE/s1600/IMG_4025.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The next test was the multiple ingredient protein shake, of which I made my two go-to recipes. The first recipe I tried was had almond milk, bananas, peanut butter, Hemp Hearts, and HempPro50. The best part of this shake and, I think, the reason I love it so much is because it has a lot of my favorite things and the ingredients come together to mask even the worst tasting of protein powders. The only difference I noticed in this shake was the extra nutty flavor from the Hemp Hearts. <br />
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The next shake I made was my "frosty" shake. This shake is the easiest shake I make and I made it with almond milk, a tablespoon of cocoa powder, HempPro70, Hemp Hearts, and ice. It tasted just like I hoped for and I got to enjoy my healthy frosty shake happily. <br />
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I used the HempPro Fiber in my protein bites and here is where you could taste the protein. It wasn't a bad taste, but it definitely tasted different than how the bites usually taste when I use a vanilla-flavored protein. Not that I was complaining because you can never go wrong with anything that has peanut butter and chocolate as ingredients!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUj3TgRn7B4/VFmsua0PjmI/AAAAAAAABS0/cNRwaGTwRlk/s1600/IMG_4147.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUj3TgRn7B4/VFmsua0PjmI/AAAAAAAABS0/cNRwaGTwRlk/s1600/IMG_4147.JPG" height="320" width="320" /> </a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgif8Lomo84/VFms1DqwZfI/AAAAAAAABTs/GzjZL21EHs4/s1600/IMG_4554.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgif8Lomo84/VFms1DqwZfI/AAAAAAAABTs/GzjZL21EHs4/s1600/IMG_4554.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a> </div>
What I liked the most about these products is that there was no funky aftertaste and that the Hemp Hearts were delicious to snack on just on their own. The biggest perk to this protein powder, however, is the fact that the protein mixes in easily, even in a shaker cup. Again, this is huge for me as on-the-go protein shakes are a normal part of my day.<br />
<br />
As an added perk, <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/">Manitoba Harvest </a>is offering everyone 20% off their products until November 30, 2014 on their <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/">website</a> with the code: <span style="color: #ff00cc;"><strong>HHSweatPink14</strong></span>. If you are into eating healthy and are a protein connoisseur or like to have at least three different types of protein in your home at any given moment like me, I encourage you to try this protein.<br />
<br />
<i><b>I received the <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/">Manitoba Harvest</a> samples as part of the <a href="http://www.fitapproach.com/">Fit Approach</a> campaign. All the opinions in this post are my own.</b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> For more on my approach to fitness follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">. </span></span></span><br />
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Thankfully for me, my friend (<a href="http://instagram.com/runningprado">@runningprado</a> on Instagram) caught up to me before mile 6 after being misdirected and led off-course for 1.5 miles and ran the rest of the race with me. I honestly do not know what I would have done without him. Running beside him for the second half of the race really helped the distance pass by quickly and get me to that finish line. I still finished in decent time (2:04), but it was a hard fight. The last time I struggled that much mentally was the trail run half marathon in June 2014 and, before that, my first half marathon in January 2013. Again, it amazes me how every run can be different, regardless of how well your training went. Great training leading up to the Chicago Marathon resulting in a time I only dreamt about and I still struggled with 13.1 miles two weeks later. Thankfully for me, I've gotten over beating myself up about time so I really was just happy about finishing and adding new hardware to my collection!<br />
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<b>What I liked:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Great course along the lakefront. </li>
<li>I loved the zippered jacket.</li>
<li>Fun medal. </li>
<li>Signing up at the Chicago Marathon expo was great because I was able to get my bib beforehand. </li>
<li>Finish line bag with an apple, chips, and candies. </li>
<li>Free beer!</li>
<li>Running with friends. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>What I didn't like:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Poorly supported course: My friend was misdirected for 1.5 miles and the first water station was over 2 miles into the race. This was probably the most disappointing part of the race. </li>
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My next race is the <a href="http://www.hotchocolate15k.com/">Hot Chocolate 15k</a> on November 9th. I am definitely feeling more prepared for this race! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For more on my running follow me on Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
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This girl is lighting up my day today. <a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2QjnA8gUWEQ/VFfULu3WogI/AAAAAAAABSA/zM9MUfjFh2Y/s640/blogger-image-2145362507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2QjnA8gUWEQ/VFfULu3WogI/AAAAAAAABSA/zM9MUfjFh2Y/s640/blogger-image-2145362507.jpg" /></a></div>
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The biggest problem I had been coming across is that because my hours can be a little erratic, it would be hard for me to commit to going to classes at one studio consistently. This past week alone I had three random slots open and, if I wanted to take a class during those times, I would have had to go to three different studios and paid three different fees. Not happening as I need all the extra money I can get for running events :)</div>
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Then, I remembered coming across a few posts on Instagram about <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a>, a monthly recurring membership program that includes unlimited access to certain gyms and studios. <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> is available in Boston, New York, DC, LA, and San Francisco and recently became available in Chicago. The membership offers unlimited classes a month, but limits the member to three classes per location. At first, you may think this is a drawback, but when you consider that Chicago has close to 70 studios that offer everything from cycling, yoga, Pilates, and strength training, you realize that the drawback is not having enough time to go to all the participating studios. </div>
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I was given the opportunity to review <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> so make sure to check back in 30 days for my review and follow me on Instagram <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></span></span>to know more about my <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> fitness journey. I can already tell you that I am excited about the studios <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> covers as most of them have been on my radar since I moved to Chicago and I am loving the monthly membership price as it is cheaper than most of the monthly memberships at the local studios. If you are too curious to wait for my review, head on over to the <a href="http://classpass.com/">ClassPass</a> website to learn more. Let the fitness exploration begin!<br />
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<b><i>ClassPass gave me a complimentary month-long membership, but all the opinions in this post, my review, and on Instagram are my own. </i></b></div>
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It has been 10 days since the Chicago Marathon. The race I had been training to complete for the past five months of my life. So much of my focus and effort was, with reason, on preparing for the race. I wish someone would have prepared me for post-marathon life. Now that I am not training for a race, I feel just a little lost with what my fitness goals should be. I'm crazy enough to even miss my late night runs on the track!<br />
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The week before the race I was in Canada for a conference and that was probably the best thing to happen to me because I was forced to taper. Kind of hard to run every day when you've only packed two workout outfits, right? I was still anxious about the race and my ability to complete the race. Things started settling for me when I went to expo on Saturday and picked up my bib. I was actually going to run this race! The night before the race I did the crazy thing of estimate my time. My goal had always been to finish under 4:30, but that night, with the numbers I saw, I realized that under 4:15 was within reach and, if I really pushed myself, a 4-hour marathon could be possible.<br />
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Even with that, I woke up race morning with the idea that 4:30 would be my goal and anything under that would be the sweetest cherry on top of this magnificently long victory lap. I did not make it in time to get in my corral (G) because Cati woke up early and was not too happy about me leaving to run a race, but I was able to hop in on corral H.<br />
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I started running at 8:18am and told myself that what mattered was how I felt, not the time on the watch. I saw my family in that first mile and was cheered on the rest of the way by friends and family through the Motigo app (best. app. ever.). Looking back, I remember the first half of the marathon so much better than I do the second half. I did the first half in 2:02 and was so proud of this time. Here I was, running comfortably and happily knowing I still had 13.1 more miles to go, and I still managed a 2:02 half marathon. This was just the bit of encouragement I needed to get through what I felt would be the hardest part of the race for me: miles 13.1 through 20.<br />
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Like I said, the second half of the race is a blur. I remember running, but I wouldn't be able to tell you where I ran, what I ran past, who I took water from, or the faces in the crowd. Once I hit mile 20, the mental pep talk began: 6.2 miles more to go, 60 more minutes of movement. That pep talk continued for every subsequent mile. When I saw the mile marker for mile 24, I almost lost it. I wanted to cry, explode, yell, anything to release the sense of pride that was building up in me. I WAS DOING IT. I WAS TWO MILES AWAY FROM BEING A MARATHONER.<br />
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Those last two miles were the most emotional miles of my life. Just thinking about those last two miles brings me to tears. I worked so hard, I sacrificed so much, and I worried even more and I was so close to seeing the payoff of all that work, dedication, and commitment. I kept telling myself to keep it together because I didn't want people to see me and think I was in pain and falling apart. I mean, I was falling apart in that the old me who thought she couldn't was crumbling away to make space for the new me that knew she could.<br />
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Crossing that finish line was amazing. It took every ounce of my strength to not stop right then and there and sob. I was so proud. In the days after the marathon, I likened the experience of running and completing the marathon to being pregnant and giving birth. The months of training were like the nine months of pregnancy, full of hope and preparation. Then running the actual course was the labor, a mixture of feelings and sensations. Crossing the finish line was the birth and that medal the baby. As with my births, I recall the feeling of being there and experiencing all the pain, but I cannot remember specifics for the life of me or remember just how bad the pain was during labor. This is exactly how the marathon was for me with fuzzy details and a real out-of-body experience.<br />
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Once the running stopped, it was as if the pain of the previous 4 hours rushed to my legs. I had heard others talk about lactic acid, but I was not expecting that kind of pain. I could still walk (although I was afraid to sit down), but any other motion seemed like murder to my legs. I tried to numb my pain through free Goose Island Beer and talking to my Instagram friends. I think what really helped me was the mile walk home. What didn't help was the giggling girls who seemed to only want to jump, climb, and sit on my sore legs. The day after the marathon was the worst on my legs, but the soreness subsided after three days. I waited longer to run (7 days) because I wanted to soak in the finish and take a break from the intensive running.<br />
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I finished the marathon in 4:07:32. So much better than I ever imagined for my first marathon. I finished with a smile on my face and with deeper connections to Chicago and the running community up here. I still prefer the 13.1 distance, but there is something so magical about 26.2 miles.<br />
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This post is long enough, so I will end things with saying that I cannot wait to run my next marathon! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For more on my running follow me on Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">With fitness on my mind, I jumped at the chance to review The Fitness Games, an app that aims at creating a social fitness community where you can connect with "workout partners" from around the world, share workout pictures and videos, and challenge your partners to workouts. I love the idea of this app as I'm one of those people who will randomly text people with "workout commands" of 10 squats or push-ups or other moves that can be done almost anywhere. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The app has four categories: strength, cardiovascular, full body, and cross training. Within each category, there are workouts at the beginner, intermediate, and expert level. Once you select a workout, you can challenge yourself, a friend, nearby, or worldwide. You can also create a workout, which might be the coolest part of this app. In this part of the app you can select pre-existing exercises based on the body part and, for those exercises, there are pictures and video tutorials. Taking it a step further, you can create custom exercises and upload your own pictures and video tutorials. Other features of this app are the feed section, where you can see the pictures and workout summaries (similar to Instagram) of your workout partners, the workout tracker calendar, and rankings (couch potato, gym rat, athlete, and rookie to name a few).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">What I didn't like about the app was that I didn't know how to use it at first in terms of finding workout partners and challenging them. That was honestly the only complaint I had about the app and<span style="font-size: small;">, once I played around with the app <span style="font-size: small;">so<span style="font-size: small;">me more<span style="font-size: small;"> and actually paid attention to the video tutoria<span style="font-size: small;">l all was good</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>. I love the motivation and the way you can create your own workout. One of the biggest challenges of working out and sticking to that lifestyle is motivation and accountability and this app is looking to address those shortfalls by connecting you to others, allowing<span style="font-size: small;"> you to challenge yourself, awarding points for workouts, a<span style="font-size: small;">nd giving you positive messages <span style="font-size: small;">after each <span style="font-size: small;">submitted workout. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I still have m<span style="font-size: small;">ore toying around to do with the app as my review for it came at the peak of my marathon training and my brain was only registering running. </span>The Fitness Games app has varying versions and you can buy <span style="font-size: small;">wo</span>rkouts for $0.99. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W38vikCggcU/VD3n1kA1WXI/AAAAAAAABQk/8HKjI9Y8bHY/s1600/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W38vikCggcU/VD3n1kA1WXI/AAAAAAAABQk/8HKjI9Y8bHY/s1600/FullSizeRender_2.jpg" height="320" width="188" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><span style="font-family: tahoma,verdana,segoe,sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"></i></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: black;">This post was sponsored by </span><a href="http://sweatguru.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7ff17c98a6907eed6c4e147b1&id=d76caf7bb0&e=0bd9dde683" style="color: #6dc6dd; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">The Fitness Games</span></a><span style="color: black;"> through my partnership with </span><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://sweatguru.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7ff17c98a6907eed6c4e147b1&id=ff7b032175&e=0bd9dde683" style="color: #6dc6dd; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Fit Approach</a> as a Sweat Pink Ambassador</span><span style="color: black;">.
I was not compensated monetarily, but was provided the Platinum Version
of the application for review. As always, all opinions are my own.</span></i></span></span><br />
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My cousin was able to switch his date too and we were both able to experience <a href="http://www.spartan.com/">Spartan</a> for the first time together. This would be my 9th mud run and my cousin's first so I was really hoping he would love these runs as much as I do (I need a mud run partner). Complete success! The <a href="http://www.spartan.com/">Spartan Race</a> did an amazing job at putting Sunday's event together. Checking in was easy and so was trying to change your time to earlier waves. The people were great and their course was stocked with volunteers. This is the first mud run I have ever done where volunteers were at the showing station looking out for open showers for the runners. The trails were no joke and I wish I had a watch so that I could have recorded the level of upness.<br />
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As expected, the running was the easiest part for me, even with those trails. I am proud to see that I have gotten stronger with my upper body. The mud was something else; this was definitely the thickest and most slippery mud I have even experienced. The obstacles were as expected with lots of climbing, but there was no way to prepare for that mud. As horrible as the obstacle was, crossing the mud mounds and ditches filled with water between the mounds, was probably my favorite obstacle. I don't think I have ever laughed so hard at myself or worked so hard to get myself out of mud.<br />
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<a href="http://www.spartan.com/">Spartan Race</a> hits you with the obstacles in the last 1/4 mile: rock climbing wall where you can't touch the floor, climbing up a slanted wall, straight rope climb, swim, wall climb, another slanted wall climb, and jumping over fire. When we first got to the race we watched people climb that last wall and we wondered what must have happened over those 4+ miles to make the runners look so worn and tired. Now I knew.<br />
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As soon as we finished, I felt so accomplished. I love doing these events because I feel like a complete badass. I feel strong and, really, just incredibly proud of myself for going outside of my comfort zone and trying something new. I was especially happy I did this event because I felt I deserved a good physical challenge after the mentally challenging week I had before the race. This race reminded me so much of how I felt after my first mud run that it has me dreaming of accomplishing the Spartan Trifecta (Sprint, Super, and Beast) next year. I also got to try Pumpkin beer, so that helped with my elation.<br />
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<b>What I liked:</b><br />
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<li>The camaraderie: I crossed the monkey bars on my cousin's shoulders. </li>
<li>The course was definitely challenging with those hilly trails. </li>
<li>The obstacles were challenging. Holy cow, were some of them hard. The hardest one for me was carrying a 65-lb stone. </li>
<li>Free beer!</li>
<li>Cool medal. </li>
<li>Easy packet pickup. </li>
<li>Lively crowd. </li>
<li>You could get your time as soon as you finished. </li>
<li>Finish line obstacles were perfectly set up for spectating. </li>
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<b>What I didn't like:</b></div>
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<li>I'm cheap so I didn't like paying $10 for parking and $5 for bag check. </li>
<li>I liked the shirt, I just didn't like how big it fit me. </li>
<li>Burpees, ouch! (I'm just being a baby)</li>
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Next official race is <b>THE CHICAGO MARATHON</b>!!!! I'm so over marathon training so October 12th can't get here soon enough.<br />
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I'll let you in on a little secret: I was the one that really wanted to go apple picking because I wanted to have a reason to bake with apples. Aside from eating them as is, I love just about every apple dessert in existence. Sure, I wanted the girls to experience apple picking because I had such great memories of my first time apple picking, but I also have even better memories of all the things I baked. The only glitch in this plan is that whatever I bake has to be something that comes together quickly and easily as time is short during the weeknights. Thankfully, most apple desserts come together quickly (I usually spend more time chopping apples than doing everything else) and I can put something in the oven to bake while we sit down to have dinner.</div>
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The first apple recipe of the season that I conquered was an Apple Walnut Bread. I chose this recipe because I knew I had all the ingredients and because I got a craving for apples and walnuts after seeing so many great recipes on Pinterest. I made minor changes to the recipe, used a Golden Delicious apple, and halved the recipe (below). The end product was so good! We ate slices of the bread with and without butter and I think I preferred the buttered slices because it made me feel like the fall season inside. Even more surprising to me was that Alex liked it; he usually doesn't like anything I've tinkered with to make healthier. </div>
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<b>Apple Walnut Bread</b></div>
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Source: Slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.onsuttonplace.com/2013/10/apple-walnut-bread/">On Sutton Place</a><br />
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1/2 cup vanilla Chobani Greek yogurt<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1 cup whole wheat flour<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1/4 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
2 Tbsp ground flaxseed<br />
1 medium apple, chopped<br />
1/2 cup chopped walnuts<br />
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Prepare one medium loaf pan or 2 small pans by spraying them with non-stick cooking spray.<br />
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Beat together first 4 ingredients.
Add the dry ingredients mixing well and scraping sides of the bowl.<br />
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Fold in the apples and the nuts.
Pour batter into loaf pan(s).
Bake for 35-40 min., or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.<br />
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Remove from oven and let sit and cool for 10 minutes. Serve and enjoy!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Follow me on Pinterest <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/steppystar/">@steppystar</a> to see what I else plan on baking with these apples. Also, give a follow on</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a> to see more about my Chicago and baking adventures!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yesterday was the first day of the fall season. After living in Boston for four years, fall became my favorite season of the year because I loved the kaleidoscope of colors, the cooler temperatures, and, most importantly, the flavors! I loved how the season was filled with hot chocolates, apples, pumpkin, cinnamon sugar, and butter. Now that we are in Chicago and the weather is becoming more fall-like (really though, what's summer weather in Chicago because I missed it), I find myself in that familiar place of wanting long walks outside and baking anything and everything with apples. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3878/15144646659_e836246bdf.jpg" style="font-family: inherit;" width="240" /></span></div>
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This past weekend we took the girls to experience a quintessential fall activity: apple picking! I had been researching different orchards beforehand and on Sunday decided we would be visiting <a href="http://www.jonamacorchard.com/">Jonomac Orchard</a>. This orchard was close to an hour and a half from home, but it seemed to offer the most bang for the buck and I liked that they didn't charge a per person rate for the apple picking.
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<span style="color: #222222;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15308341426" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3906/15308341426_836e5ba169.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />We bought a half peck ($13 for about 5 lbs of apple) and went to town picking Golden Delicious, Ruby Jon, and Jonathan apples. The girls had so much fun (we adults did, too) and I couldn't get over how cute they looked picking apples. Little things like this make me so happy we are in Chicago and able to give the girls such unique experiences. The best part of this experience was being able to eat the apples right then and there. We tried all three varieties and Cati determined "delicious golden" was her favorite. </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15144694470" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2942/15144694470_48fa81bc0a.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />After apple picking, the girls played in the huge Barnyard that had slides, haystacks you could walk on, a mini maze, a corn shed, and tricycles. Then, we had the crazy idea of doing the corn maze. This was fun at first, but then we couldn't figure out how to get out and our anxiety must have trickled down to the girls because Elina started asking for home and Cati started saying her legs wee hurting. The funny part is that our anxiety was due to wanting to get out before the girls started complaining and here we were instigating that! It was still fun though, but because it took us so long to figure out the first half, we didn't get to do the second half. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15144795988" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3916/15144795988_b66dec27dc.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Before we left I knew I had to get us apple cider donuts. The line was out the door by 1pm but it moved quickly. Everyone loved the donuts. I also bought a slice of apple pie and I wish I would have bought more as that pie had the best crust I have ever tasted. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15144839377" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2943/15144839377_477a50cdc0.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />It was such a great experience. The girls loved it and Cati has already asked if we could go back this weekend. We'll definitely be making another trip before the picking season ends in November. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<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://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15144658860" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2944/15144658860_6157234195.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See? Adults had fun, too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #222222;"></span></div>
<a href="http://www.jonamacorchard.com/" style="color: #222222;">Jonamac Orchar</a><span style="color: #222222;">d is located at 19412 Shabbona Road in Malta, IL. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">A half peck (about 5lbs) of apples is $13 and a full peck is $26. A half dozen donuts is $4.50, a dozen donuts is $7.95, slices of apple pie are $2.75, and a full apple pie is $12.95. Corn maze and barnyard admission is $10 for kids (2 and under are free) and $8 for adults. The orchard accepts credit cards, but not American Express and all the bathrooms are port-a-potties (Elina refused to use these bathrooms). My advice would be to try to get there early as it's less busy and the lines are shorter. However, as an adult it seems like a fun place to go later because of the live music and wine tastings. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">For more information visit their website </span><a href="http://www.jonamacorchard.com/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">http://www.jonamacorchard.com/</a><br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/steppystar/15331065312" title="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard by steppystar, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple picking Jonomac Orchard" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3840/15331065312_06206c7407.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Follow me on Pinterest <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/steppystar/">@steppystar</a> to see what I plan on baking with these apples. Also, give a follow on</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a> to see more about my Chicago adventures!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7g4DXBrTBs/VB0MFvmXKbI/AAAAAAAABOk/8zYs7NWTEg4/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7g4DXBrTBs/VB0MFvmXKbI/AAAAAAAABOk/8zYs7NWTEg4/s1600/image.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a meal that is always quick and easy for me. Since I started working, we've had more breakfast-for-dinner meals and, thankfully, no one is complaining! I saw this recipe for Sour Cream Pancakes on Pioneer Woman's website and knew I had to try it because (1) sour cream and (2) it's Pioneer Woman! The pancakes absolutely did not disappoint as they were soft and buttery. We ate all the pancakes in one sitting (!) because they were <i>that</i> good. </div>
<br />
<b>Edna Mae’s Sour Cream Pancakes</b><br />
Source: <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2013/04/edna-maes-sour-cream-pancakes/">Pioneer Woman</a><br />
<br />
1 cup sour cream<br />
7 Tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />
2 Tablespoons sugar<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
2 whole large eggs<br />
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
Butter, for frying and serving<br />
Warm syrup, for serving<br />
<br />
In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla. Set aside.<br />
<br />
In a separate small bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.<br />
<br />
In a medium bowl, stir together the sour cream with the dry ingredients until just barely combined (don't overmix.) Whisk in the egg mixture until just combined.<br />
<br />
Heat a griddle over medium-low heat and melt some butter in the pan. Drop batter by 1/4 cup servings onto the griddle. Cook on the first side until bubbles start to form on the surface and edges are starting to brown. Flip to the other side and cook for another minute. (Pancakes will be a little on the soft side.)<br />
<br />
Serve with softened butter and syrup.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Follow me on Pinterest <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/steppystar/">@steppystar</a> to see what's on my baking and cooking To-Do list. Also, give a follow on</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">!</span></span></span><div style="line-height: 18px; margin: 0px;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VWNFrCu1zUM/VBmVjqyT4pI/AAAAAAAABOI/5zTWxMG7JYQ/s1600/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VWNFrCu1zUM/VBmVjqyT4pI/AAAAAAAABOI/5zTWxMG7JYQ/s1600/image.png" height="317" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">I'm all about balance so to balance out my fitness post from Monday about my <a href="http://confessionsofcityeater.blogspot.com/2014/09/race-recap-chicago-half-marathon.html">record-setting half marathon time at the Chicago Half Marathon,</a> today I give you a post about cake. Not just any cake, but a Bailey's cake that Alex gave me the recipe for and requested I make. This recipe came highly recommended and I was happy to fulfill the request, especially since I have been baking more (mostly tried-and-true recipes).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Other than being a Bailey's cake, I really liked and appreciated how quickly and easily the cake came together. I was able to make a home-cooked meal and dessert in the same night and that makes me feel like such a champ!</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3o3Hj3VSSk/VBmVjomPi7I/AAAAAAAABOA/-5dbrn13d9k/s1600/image%2B(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3o3Hj3VSSk/VBmVjomPi7I/AAAAAAAABOA/-5dbrn13d9k/s1600/image%2B(1).png" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I will warn you, there's no denying this cake has alcohol in it. I even halved the syrup recipe (full recipe is posted below) and it still felt like more than enough syrup for the cake. I actually tasted the cake before putting the syrup on it and I think I liked it better that way. Alex, on the other hand, loved the cake and ate two not-so-small slices.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Better lighting the next day so you can see the layer of nuts.</td></tr>
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<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit;">Bailey's Irish Cream Cake</b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yields: 1 bundt cake</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Source: <a href="http://www.cooks.com/recipe/lp1bo5ak/baileys-irish-cream-cake.html">Cooks.com</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Cake:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1 cup nuts (I used pecans)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1 package yellow cake mix</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1 (3 oz.) pkg. Jello instant vanilla pudding</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">4 eggs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1/2 cup cold water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1/2 cup oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">1/2 cup Bailey's Irish Cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 20px;">
</div>
<div class="instructions" style="line-height: 20px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a tube or bundt pan. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sprinkle nuts on the bottom of pan. Combine the rest of the ingredients. Pour over nuts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake 1 hour. Cool cake completely. Prick cake and pour glaze over top and sides.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 20px;">
</div>
<div class="section" style="line-height: 20px;">
<div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Glaze:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 stick butter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup Bailey's Irish Cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 20px;">
</div>
<div class="instructions" style="line-height: 20px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Melt butter. Stir in water and sugar. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">REMOVE from heat. Stir in Bailey's Irish Cream.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Note: If using cake mix which includes pudding, omit pudding from recipe, decrease eggs to 3, and decrease oil to 1/3 cup.</i></b></span><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">By the way, I rediscovered Pinterest and I'm in trouble! Follow me <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/steppystar/">@steppystar</a> on there to see what's on my baking To-Do list. Also, give a follow on</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">!</span></span></span><br />
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had been meaning to post about it, but with the new job and learning
how to balance working full-time with parenthood and marathon training
has been no easy task. As always, I thought I was busy before!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QTruqDvzngE/VBe4fnJIDfI/AAAAAAAABNM/VaH5-lRasmI/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QTruqDvzngE/VBe4fnJIDfI/AAAAAAAABNM/VaH5-lRasmI/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyway, back to the race. I'm in the last third of my marathon training
and I've been running 5-6 days a week and averaging 45 miles a week. I
ran 10 miles the Saturday before the race and, including this Saturday
run, I was at 36 miles for the week so my expectations for a PR
(personal record) was low. I didn't know how my legs would feel come
race morning-would they feel tired, sore, or heavy? Also, would my mind
be into running strong and fast for 13.1 miles? With all this in mind, I
woke up race morning with the intention to treat this race as another
training run and, if I bettered my half marathon time of 2:04, then
great!</div>
<br />
The weather on the day of the race was spectacular. Or at least, it was
perfect running weather for the first hour or so of the run as the
temperatures were in the 50s. I knew that first mile would determine how
the rest of the race would go so I ran purely based on how I felt and
not by looking at my watch. When I saw that first mile was in the
8-minute range and I didn't feel like I pushed myself too hard, I knew
that as long as my mind held out, I would be able to get the sub-2 hour
finish I was hoping for.<br />
<br />
I fueled as I normally do, stuck to my run-walk intervals (1:30 run/:30
walk), and kept a mostly consistent pace. Even so, mile 9.5 is where I
began to struggling. I wasn't in pain and my body felt good, but for
some reason my brain started getting louder with the "you can't do this"
messages. I did the only thing I could do, which was to keep moving
forward. I was so thankful for my intervals because I forced myself to
focus on just running for a minute and a half, instead of just having
three more miles to go. I recovered by mile 11, but even so, I did
cadences that last mile to help me get to the finish line.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdnAkn2xdfQ/VBe4ge-0jqI/AAAAAAAABNg/nTXZvJ7-bfs/s1600/photo%2B5.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdnAkn2xdfQ/VBe4ge-0jqI/AAAAAAAABNg/nTXZvJ7-bfs/s1600/photo%2B5.PNG" height="320" width="258" /></a></div>
<br />
Crossing that finish line felt so good! Even better was realizing that I
smashed my previous time by almost 10 minutes! My official time was
1:55:20 and I could barely believe it. I was hoping for a sub-2 hour finish
but I was thinking I only had it in me for a 1:59 finish since my PR
times in the half marathon distance have usually gotten better by
5-minutes at a time between races I've ran for time. I'm still on a
runner's high from that race. To think that I ran my first half marathon
in 2:30 in January 2013 to this last one in 1:55 is amazing.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HASXDYCOnIw/VBe4gKVCXRI/AAAAAAAABNY/ZYA4ONHMQh4/s1600/photo%2B4.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HASXDYCOnIw/VBe4gKVCXRI/AAAAAAAABNY/ZYA4ONHMQh4/s1600/photo%2B4.PNG" height="180" width="320" /></a> </div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdnAkn2xdfQ/VBe4ge-0jqI/AAAAAAAABNg/nTXZvJ7-bfs/s1600/photo%2B5.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<br />
This race reminded me that if you train consistently, you will see
results. It also reminded me that most of the time, I'm my biggest enemy
and that the person I have to prove myself to IS myself.<br />
<br /><b>
What I liked about the race:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>
Packet pickup was quick and easy.</li>
<li>
Race day weather was perfect at first.</li>
<li>
Nice course. I especially liked the part that was on Lakefront Drive.</li>
<li>
Lou Malnati's pizza!</li>
<li>
Long-sleeve technical shirt.</li>
<li>
I really liked how they organized the groups. I was in corral G and,
based on other races, was expecting to start running 10 minutes after
the first group of runners left, but this wasn't the case with this
race. There was no wait time between corrals going off and I started a
little over 2-minutes after the first group of runners started.</li>
<li>
Motigo: this is an app where people can leave you messages that you get
during the race. There was a glitch and I got all my messages in the
beginning, but the idea behind this is awesome. If I would have gotten
the messages when they were intended, I would have been that person at
mile 10 crying and laughing.</li>
<li>
Plenty of water and Gatorade on the course.</li>
<li>Meeting Instagram friends, like @runningprado in person. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_6J-kcGjmE/VBe4fm8_AlI/AAAAAAAABNc/5ZdiOMjV52E/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_6J-kcGjmE/VBe4fm8_AlI/AAAAAAAABNc/5ZdiOMjV52E/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br /><b>
What I didn't like about the race:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>
I love expo and expo seemed small for this race for some reason.</li>
<li>
I didn't see any pace groups.</li>
<li>
This relates to all races, but I heard it more at this race: "it's ok,
you can do it" or "don't give up" or "you're almost there" from
spectators every time I was on a walk break. This is my fourth race in
Chicago and I am realizing that the run-walk method is not very popular
and people don't understand that my walks are intentional. I wish I
could have gotten more "you go girl" or "looking strong!"</li>
</ul>
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Next official race is Spartan on September 27th and I'm debating whether or not to sign up for the 20-mile run this upcoming weekend.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For more on my running and training for the Chicago Marathon, follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://cheesieschicago.com/"><b>Cheesie's</b></a><br />
<br />
Lunchtime in Lincoln Park. Cranky, hungry kids. I walked into the first place I could find that had no wait and that place was <a href="http://cheesieschicago.com/menu/">Cheesie's</a>. I knew it was going to be a winner because everyone in the family loves grilled cheese. What I didn't know was how cheesy the sandwiches were going to be. I ordered "The Melt," a grilled cheese sandwich with chicken, bacon, Thousand Island dressing, American cheese and Chihuaha cheese. All this on Texas toast. This was so good, but oh so bad. It was delicious, but it felt like the ultimate cheat meal for me. (<a href="http://cheesieschicago.com/menu/">Cheesie's</a> is located at 958 West Belmont Ave.)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.hoosiermamapie.com/">Hoosier Mama Pie Company</a></b><br />
<br />
A friend recommend <a href="http://www.hoosiermamapie.com/">Hoosier Mama Pie Company </a>and told me it was the best pie on the planet. Curious, I went on a trip with the girls and we ordered their apple pie and chocolate chess pie. The pies were delicious! I loved the apple pie and the girls tore up the chocolate pie. The apple pie had apple chunks in it and the crust was so buttery. The chocolate chess pie was creamy and had a cookie-like crust. After eating these two slices and leaving, I felt guilty for not grabbing a pie to go. I have been plotting a return trip ever since I swallowed the last bit of apple pie. (<a href="http://www.hoosiermamapie.com/">Hoosier Mama Pie Company</a> is located at 1618 1/2 Chicago Avenue).<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.maynestage.com/the-pub/">The Pub at Mayne Stage</a></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.maynestage.com/the-pub/">The Pub at Mayne Stage</a> is another place we just happened to dine at after an afternoon of walking around a local art show. They were still on the brunch menu and I indulged just a little and ordered their Steak and Eggs. This dish came with skirt steak, onion strings, black beans, potatoes, and two eggs. Everything about this dish was amazing. The beans surprised me a bit because I have never seen beans served with steak and eggs but I was pleasantly surprised. The steak was tender and almost made me wish I eat steak more often. I think, however, that my favorite part of this restaurant was the $2 mimosas. (<a href="http://www.maynestage.com/the-pub/">The Pub at Mayne Stage</a> is located at 1330 West Morse Ave).<br />
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<a href="http://www.mekatos.com/"><b>Mekato's Colombian Bakery</b></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mekatos.com/">Mekato's</a> is a bakery that a colleague recommended to Alex. Being Colombian myself and having a deep love for Colombian food, I was anxious to get out to this bakery. We went on a Sunday (free parking) and basically ordered everything they sold. What you see in the picture below are traditional Colombian foods like empanadas (turnovers), arepa de choclo con queso (corn cake topped with cheese), papa rellena ("stuffed potatoe" or fried pastry filled with meat and potatoes), and bunuelos (fried cheese balls). I was basically in love after the first bite. We cleared the table! This is another place that I can't wait to go back to so I can pig out again. (<a href="http://www.mekatos.com/">Mekato's</a> is located at 5423 N. Lincoln Avenue).<br />
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It's the beginning of the month and I'm already eager to get out and eat. I have a list of restaurants I want to try but I love the ability to go out with no plan and just stumble on something new. If you have any recommendations please let me know!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For more on my move to Chicago and my food-finding adventures, follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="color: #23abc4; text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="color: #23abc4; text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VgTXyiWjI08/U_-A42STd9I/AAAAAAAABMI/pZN7i-wWW2Y/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VgTXyiWjI08/U_-A42STd9I/AAAAAAAABMI/pZN7i-wWW2Y/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
First cupcake batch in the new city happened a couple of weeks ago and it felt so good to get back to basics with my baking. I started really baking in Boston and was a part of different baking groups that had baking challenges each week or each month. I was able to really expand my knowledge of baking and go outside of my comfort zone. Being in Chicago takes me back to that time when baking was so new and exciting for me. It's even better now because I have kids and I can really have fun with what I make, like the frosting for these cupcakes that were an orange and green (Go CANES!) swirl. This recipe is probably the best white cake recipe I've tried and I loved how easily it all came together; I spent more time on making the frosting than the cupcakes themselves! I make my frosting from scratch but I never measure it out and it's some combination of butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. <br />
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<b>Simple White Cake</b><br />
Source: <a href="http://m.allrecipes.com/recipe/17481/simple-white-cake">Scottosman on Allrecipes.com </a><br />
Yields: 12 cupcakes <br />
<br />
1 cup white sugar<br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
2 egg whites <br />
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a muffin pan with paper liners.<br />
<br />
In a medium bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder, add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Finally stir in the milk until batter is smooth.<br />
<br />
Pour or spoon batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until cakes spring back to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.<br />
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For more on my baking in the new city<span style="font-family: inherit;"> f</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">ollow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-il6BgqRR7I4/U_yTukV_nEI/AAAAAAAABLg/GjqvQziFX48/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-il6BgqRR7I4/U_yTukV_nEI/AAAAAAAABLg/GjqvQziFX48/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a> </div>
In seven weeks, I will have hopefully crossed the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. My training has been going well (minus a little IT band achiness a couple of weeks back) and I've gotten up to 18.5 miles but the thought of 26.2 miles still scares me. I'm doing everything I can to physically prepare and, now that I have gotten into a great groove with my commitment and dedication to my training plan, I'm starting to focus more on the nutritional aspect of my training. Really this just means I'm trying to eat a little healthier and working on constantly seeing food as fuel. This is not an easy task when you like to bake as much as I do. It's all about balance though as this recipe for protein pancakes proves: pancakes made with my favorite yogurt combo and topped with my favorite <a href="http://gonuttzo.com/about/what-is-nuttzo/">crunchy chocolate Nuttzo butter.</a> The pancakes were thin and full of flavor and a great alternative to my traditional pancakes that are delicious but rarely make me feel that "food as fuel" mentality. (Note: this recipe is for half the original recipe and was enough for two servings for me). <br />
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<b>Coconut Protein Pancakes</b><br />
Source: <a href="http://www.foodfanatic.com/2014/01/protein-pancakes-hearty-and-healthy/#ixzz3BVMmq5ts">Foodfanatic.com</a><br />
Serves 1 to 2 <br />
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1/2 cup old fashioned oats<br />
1 scoop vanilla protein powder<br />
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract<br />
1 Chobani Almond Coco Loco flip<br />
1/3 cup vanilla almond milk<br />
1 tablespoon honey<br />
1 egg<br />
1/4 teaspoon baking powder<br />
2 Tbsp ground flaxseed <br />
Desired toppings, like fruit or syrup <br />
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<div class="directions" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
Add all of the ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth.</div>
<div class="directions" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
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Heat a large skillet or griddle to medium heat. Spray with non-stick spray. Using a cookie scoop, scoop batter onto hot skillet or griddle, placing about 2-inches between pancakes. </div>
<div class="directions" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<br />
Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles start to form. Flip, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.</div>
<div class="directions" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<br />
Serve with desired toppings.</div>
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For more on my eating and training for the Chicago Marathon<span style="font-family: inherit;"> f</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">ollow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QXBHPbYwR9s/U_Qj1aQ8nKI/AAAAAAAABK0/zT4b1Xb7kP8/s1600/photo%2B1.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
I remember how clueless I was when I started running. I actually wore a drawstring bag that carried my keys, phone, and a large water bottle and I would later wonder why my back hurt so much. I've come a long way in the two years that I've been running and, while there is still a lot to learn, I'm happy that what started as a way to do cardio has turned into a life-altering passion. I went from having a few running items to a closet full of them (I currently have five pairs of shoes in rotation) and, as my love for running grew, so did my love for running accessories. <br />
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One of the accessories I love the most are headbands, especially with my hair that does this crazy sunflower thing when I get really sweaty. Headbands help tame the mane and help me feel really feminine, so I was pretty excited when Liz from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARoseSoSweet">A Rose So Sweet</a> asked for bloggers to review her headbands. Liz sent me her pink and gold chevron and I immediately tried it on and was impressed with how tight the headband felt. I have a shoebox full of headbands and none of them felt as tight as this one.<br />
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The headbands are all lined with velvet and are adjustable. I was still skeptical because I have lost two velvet-lined headbands in the past and have gotten used to wearing headbands with a clip to make sure they stay on my runs, but I was hopeful as I took this headband out for a 7-mile run.<br />
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I was pleasantly surprised when it stayed on the whole time and did not need any adjusting during my run. Still skeptical, I wore the headband for all my exercising the week I got it and the headband survived some intense yoga workouts, daily runs, and one extremely long 17.50-mile run.<br />
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To say that I am impressed is an understatement. This is the first headband I've ever worn that I don't have to worry about fixing or adjusting. The key for me was its ability to make it through my long run at my goal pace as I'm already thinking about what I want to wear for the Chicago Marathon. One of the last things I want to think or worry about on that run is whether or not my headband is going to stay put. This may seem silly, but I can still remember the races where I lost my headbands and how distracting that was for me (the headbands were not cheap!). </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6GX1LGk0t-8/U_QjNUWcyfI/AAAAAAAABKg/L7x4GACe1h0/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6GX1LGk0t-8/U_QjNUWcyfI/AAAAAAAABKg/L7x4GACe1h0/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a> </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARoseSoSweet">A Rose So Sweet</a> headbands are reasonable with the most expensive of headbands costing $9.50. The designs are pretty spectacular as well and I would quite literally love to own them all.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvhqjFsr5WI/U_QlAfEhjSI/AAAAAAAABLE/4xYkD2Hq0C4/s1600/Picture%2B7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvhqjFsr5WI/U_QlAfEhjSI/AAAAAAAABLE/4xYkD2Hq0C4/s1600/Picture%2B7.png" height="292" width="400" /></a></div>
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For more on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARoseSoSweet">A Rose So Sweet</a> headbands, you can check out Liz's <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARoseSoSweet">Etsy shop</a> and her Instagram page <a href="http://instagram.com/arosesosweetdesigns">@arosesosweetdesigns</a>. Because Liz is so nice and I recommend her headbands, you can use <b>COOKIERUNNER15</b> in her shop for 15% off through September 20th.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgQc3NlGI9I/U_QjNYmjKCI/AAAAAAAABKY/lZ1tteX5Rb4/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgQc3NlGI9I/U_QjNYmjKCI/AAAAAAAABKY/lZ1tteX5Rb4/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARoseSoSweet">A Rose So Sweet</a> provided me with a headband in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions in this post are my own. </i><br />
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For more on my running and training for the Chicago Marathon<span style="font-family: inherit;"> f</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">ollow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Confessions-of-a-City-Eater/137396159635189" style="text-decoration: none;">Facebook</a> and Instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/thecookierunner" style="text-decoration: none;">@thecookierunner</a></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> to find out!</span></span></span></span><br />
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I finally did it. I made a dessert that I grew up eating and it actually tasted just like the dessert my mom used to make. I grew up eating Arroz Con Leche and have great memories of standing by the stove in the kitchen watching the rice cook into a sweet and sticky dessert. The last time I tried to make Arroz Con Leche it took forever and my rice was hard so I gave up on this dessert. Then, shortly after moving to Chicago I went to my aunt's house and she made it and I was inspired to try again. I ended up making this recipe because it was so <i>simply</i> and simple is what I remember my mom doing with few ingredients. The end result was amazing and everyone in the family was singing my praises the day I made this Arroz Con Leche. Making this dessert was a reminder that traditions and culture are not limited to a physical place, but are actually something we can carry with us wherever we go.<br />
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<b>Arroz Con Leche</b><br />
Source: <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/arroz-con-leche--rice-pudding-">Taste of Home</a><br />
<i>Serves 4</i><br />
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1-1/2 cups water<br />
1/2 cup uncooked jasmine rice<br />
1 cup sweetened condensed milk<br />
Ground cinnamon, to taste <br />
<br />
In a small saucepan, combine the water and rice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.<br />
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Stir in milk. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until thick and creamy, stirring frequently.<br />
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Serve warm or cold. Add cinnamon to taste. <br />
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</script></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04493527210323265587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7724432048926227904.post-4834912135669953772014-08-13T02:12:00.000-04:002014-08-13T02:21:08.696-04:00Book Review: Jen Besel's Custom ConfectionsI was sent a copy of Jen Besel's book, <i>Custom Confections: Delicious Desserts You Can Create and Enjoy</i>, to review and, as usual, I am thankful for any reason to bake. Part of what really had me excited about the book was that it claimed to have recipes that were easy enough for kids. Now that my girls are older, especially Cati at almost 4.5 years old, they are very interested in everything that I do in the kitchen and are constantly asking to help add and mix ingredients. As soon as Cati saw the book she grabbed it, sat down, and started leafing through the pages. Right off the bat, the book's cover is eye-catching and I can't blame Cati for being immediately drawn to it.<br />
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The meaning behind the name, <i>Custom Confections</i> comes from Besel's view that <b>everyone</b> can make custom desserts. With this view, Besel has developed recipes with easy-to-find ingredients, short prep time, and shortcuts to creating showstopping desserts. The book is divided into five sections and includes recipes for everything from cakes to cookies to bars to popsicles to frosting. Like a good cookbook (or at least my favorite ones), there s a conversion chart and a list of tools that not only are useful for a fully stocked kitchen, but also for making the recipes in <i>Custom Confections</i>.<br />
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Aesthetically, the book is gorgeous to look at with pictures for every single recipe and fun colors and fonts. For the majority of the recipes you can lay the book flat on the counter and have the picture on one side and the recipe on the other. For someone who has baked as much as I have, it's always been a bit of a pet peeve when recipes are pages long and I have to flip back and forth to check the ingredient list and see where it matches up with the directions. Besel gives a one-sentence intro/commentary to every dessert, making you want to try every single dessert. <br />
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The only issue I had with the book was that the serving amount wasn't identified or clear. This is an issue for me because I usually cut recipes down so we don't have too many sweets in the house at a given time. <br />
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As part of my review I picked five recipes from the book. Recipes were chosen based on what I thought the family would like, tools I had, ease of making, and involvement of kids. The five recipes were Molten Caramel Cake, PB & J Cheesecake Brownies, Stained Glass Cookies, Stuffed Strawberries, and Ooey, Gooey Turtle Cake. <br />
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<b>Molten Caramel Cake</b><br />
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Eight ingredients, 10 steps, and about 20-25 minutes from prep to table. Cati was able to help with unwrapping the caramel candies, adding them to the batter, and sprinkling with sea salt. This recipe was, by far, the favorite for everyone in the family. I baked for 12 minutes, but my cakes (4) could have used an extra minute or two in the oven. The leftover cake was put in the fridge and reheated the next day and tasted just as good as it did fresh out of the oven. This dessert is perfect for the chocolate lover and I loved that sea salt was added as caramel-sea salt is one of my favorite combinations. I've made molten cakes before and, while they are one of my favorite desserts, I rarely make them because the recipes I have tried before have been too involved. This recipe solves that problem for me and now molten cakes will be a dessert that I make more frequently. <br />
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<b>PB & J Cheesecake Brownies</b><br />
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Nine ingredients, eight steps, and at least 40 minutes from prep to table. Instead of making an 8x8 pan of brownies, I made 12 brownie cups, quartered the cream cheese recipe, and added PB & J to half of the cups so that I could get a good taste of the finished cheesecake (plus, I'm not a fan of peanut butter in desserts). I also added a chocolate drizzle to the cups to make them look even prettier. The cups baked for 25 minutes and neither of the girls helped with the prep work for this dessert. The finished dessert was a hit and it was hard to get the girls to only have one for dessert. The brownie portion is made from a mix, but the cheesecake is made from scratch and, when baked, the cheesecake was smooth and didn't crack when cooled! The only thing I would change about this recipe is heating up the jam before putting it in the cheesecake mixture so that it mixes easier. <br />
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<b>Stained Glass Cookies</b><br />
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Four ingredients, eight steps, and about 25 minutes from prep to table. This recipe was probably the funnest one for the girls as they got to unwrap the candies, help break them up into small pieces, place them in the hole of the cookie, and decorate their own cookies. They even sat in front of the oven, looking in to watch the candy melt. Once the cookies were out of the oven I was surprised by how hard the candies were! For some reason, I thought the candies would melt and become more pliable, but once cooled, the melted candy became hard again. My mistake with this recipe was thinking I had cookie cutters when I went to buy the ingredients and not actually checking to see if I did so my cookies did not end up with the wide opening I would have wanted. </div>
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<b>Stuffed Strawberries</b><br />
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Five ingredients, eight steps, and about 20 minutes from prep to table. I made half the filling recipe and had enough filling to "stuff" a dozen small- and medium-sized strawberries. The girls helped with this recipe by eating the cut-off tips. The finished product was so beautiful that it was almost a shame to eat. But eat them we did, and I am so happy we did because the strawberries were delicious and I fell in love with the tart-tangy-sweet combination. We ate all the stuffed strawberries in one sitting so I would call this recipe a complete success. <br />
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<b>Ooey, Gooey Turtle Cake </b><br />
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Five ingredients, nine steps, 10 minutes prep, and a torturous four hours to table. I made half the recipe and refrigerated the cake to expedite the process. The girls helped with unwrapping the caramel candies and sprinkling the cake with the pecans. I will warn you now, this dessert is completely addictive and incredibly dangerous. This was the simplest of the recipes I tried and, along with the Stuffed Strawberries, one of the recipes that I think best exemplifies Besel's efforts at creating easy-to-make custom desserts.<br />
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<i>Custom Confections: Delicious Desserts You Can Create and Enjoy</i> by Jen Besel will be available for purchase September 1st, 2014 for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Custom-Confections-Delicious-Desserts-Create/dp/1623701368/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407910644&sr=8-2&keywords=jen+besel">$12.95 USD</a> ($14.95 CAD).<br />
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A copy of this book was provided to me by <a href="http://www.iwprgroup.com/">IWPR</a> and the publisher, <a href="http://www.capstoneyoungreaders.com/">Capstone Young Readers</a>, free of charge. The views and opinions in this review, however, are my own.<br />
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