TRUE LOVE

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Last night I came home late from my hair appointment and DH had dinner ready. I was expecting leftover frozen chili and a grill cheese sandwich because I was going to eat light so I could get in a run, well the DH had other plans.

I came home to new york strip smoked to perfection on the grill, baked potato, fresh peas, italian bread and a blueberry muffin for dessert, wow all for me. I was so grateful that he cooked and that he did it all on his own, but I certainly did not feel like a big meal, however I couldn't disappoint him since he had put so much TLC into the meal. We ate, dinner was absolutely superb. I was feeling really full but I knew I had to get my run in, so I piddled around for about 45 minutes before I headed out the door.

DH stopped me and said it was too dark and dangerous for me to go out for a run, so I was really gonna blow my stack since I had this planned already and I was bound and determined NO ONE was gonna stop me. I mean after all I am a grown woman, and I've been running at night plenty of times, so why should now be any different.

I said... you could go with me, well right away I figured the answer would be OOOHH HECK NO, but he asked how he could possibly keep up with me while I ran. I suggested he get the beach cruiser out and go with me riding the bike. And again I figured this was going to end in another OOOOOHHH HECK NO, but to my surprise it didn't.

He got the bike out, put a flashlight in the basket on the handle bars as a makeshift headlight and off we went. I got in four miles with DH blazing the trail in front of me, sometimes riding beside me and then following behind me. That my friends, is TRUE LOVE. Someone who hates exercise was out making sure his wife was safe from the boogie man, being the protector, and I think he really wants to just spend time with me. Sooo sweet.

It sure was nice not having to watch all around me, I felt so much safer with him with me. I asked if he would mind doing it again, he didn't say OOOOOHH HECK NO, but he didn't answer anything, so I'm taking that as a YES. Only two more weeks of training before the big HALF, so I'm pretty confident I have my own private security for my runs for the next two weeks. Thanks Hubby.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

KIKI0531 10/28/2011 7:21AM

So sweet. What a guy you have there !! Nice blog - very uplifting. Report Inappropriate Comment

REDSHOES2011 10/27/2011 10:51PM

Warm fuzzies when someone takes the time is wonderful.. xx Red Report Inappropriate Comment

DDOORN 10/27/2011 10:21PM

How wonderful to have the best possible company of all! :-) Don Report Inappropriate Comment

SUEAZZI 10/27/2011 9:07PM

So sweet!! Report Inappropriate Comment

MADKAPKID 10/27/2011 4:01PM

I like the story...and the outcome. A happy ending. Sounds like you have a very supportive husband...woo hoo! Have a joy fileld day, Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

1HOTMAMA2BE 10/27/2011 1:26PM

Ahhh...what a sweetie! You are truly blessed, my friend!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

BILL60 10/27/2011 1:20PM

We're not all "beer sucking creeps". Some of us have class and like to spoil our ladies. HOOAAA!! Report Inappropriate Comment

NATPLUMMER 10/27/2011 11:40AM

Yes, that is true love :-) Report Inappropriate Comment

LAURELSPARK 10/27/2011 11:12AM

What a great story! It's nice to hear that your hubby is in your corner. Report Inappropriate Comment

SAMI199 10/27/2011 10:46AM

He is too sweet! True Love- Report Inappropriate Comment

ELAINEROSE5 10/27/2011 10:34AM

Oh how sweet!!! I feel so much safer when my husband goes with me too. I noticed last time we ran that there is a sign on the path that says to not go on the path alone... We want to see pictures of the new tiger haircut! Report Inappropriate Comment

JLITT62 10/27/2011 10:17AM

Absolutely true love! What a sweetie! And thanks for my goodie & reminding me I have chili in the freezer . . . will be perfect for lunch! Report Inappropriate Comment

DGIBSON02 10/27/2011 9:59AM

Sounds like a sucker to me, lol. You know i'm kidding. Report Inappropriate Comment

MARGARETW36 10/27/2011 9:32AM

I love this. What a great story. Thanks for sharing! Report Inappropriate Comment

The 3 T's - Turkey Trot Time

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

(Google images)

I can't believe it's almost Turkey Trot Time. Where has this year gone. Sent in my registration yesterday for the Burgettstown Turkey Trot.
www.bhsturkeytrot.com/trot/index.asp
?content=1

Our family lives in WV so we visit every Thanksgiving, and last year I decided to try the local Turkey Trot. It was raining horribly that day so the people that were supposed to run it with me cancelled but I still ran. This year I am happy to report that both my son-in-laws will be running in the Gobbler division and my granddaughter will be running with me. Yeah, family fitness fun.

If any of my fellow sparkers are close by, please join us in the fun, would love to meet new people. It's a fun, hometown event. A great Thanksgiving tradition.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

JLITT62 10/27/2011 8:51AM

We actually have 3 locally! Couldn't squeeze it in last year with the 1 1/2 hr drive to my folks . . . probably same story this yr. But I'll probably still get a run in, like I did last yr! Report Inappropriate Comment

JAMER123 10/26/2011 9:07PM

I will be here cheering you all on!! Have a great time and lots of fun!! Report Inappropriate Comment

SAMI199 10/26/2011 7:40PM

Have fun-very cool your family is running with you! Gooble-Gooble. Report Inappropriate Comment

DGIBSON02 10/26/2011 12:40PM

I looked up your granddaughters age group and the winner last year was 45 minutes. She will blow that Waaaaaaaaaay out of the water. If nothing else, she will be the tallest person in the 9-12 age group, lol. Report Inappropriate Comment

NATPLUMMER 10/26/2011 11:58AM

Yay!!! Have a good time. Wish I was running one this year....maybe next. Report Inappropriate Comment

ELAINEROSE5 10/26/2011 11:53AM

I'm not sure how close that is to me, but we are thinking of going to my sisters for Thanksgiving. She has just started running too and wants to sign up for a 5K in her town. It would be her first. I think it would be fun. My daughter should be ready for her first also and of course, my hubby would probably run too. We are just waiting to see what my sons schedule is for that weekend and hope they give him a bit of a break. Have fun!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

POSITIVE_ONE 10/26/2011 11:19AM

I wish I was close by but not sure it is worth the trip from Texas. Have fun!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

Shoulda had a V-8

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

I know this is probably very silly to admit, but I have never tried V8 vegetable juice before. Wanted to share that I LOVE IT, wow I should have tried this a long time ago. Having a cup of V8 with my yummy salad for lunch today. Got get those veggies in any way I can, need lots of energy for amping up the miles this week preparing for my first half marathon.

What's something you have never tried until recently?

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

BILL60 10/27/2011 1:07PM

In my house I am "Mikey" because I can eat anything except raw clams. So, I'm often the house guinea pig for new foods. Report Inappropriate Comment

DDOORN 10/26/2011 2:21PM

I've left brussel sprouts alone since childhood always assuming I wouldn't like them. Recently I decided to "double check" my tastebuds...nope: STILL don't like 'em...lol! Don Report Inappropriate Comment

ELAINEROSE5 10/26/2011 12:02PM

This will sound silly too, but I had it in my mind that I didn't like nuts. I wouldn't eat them or anything with them in it. (Stubborn!!) Every day I would be low on my fats and Spark always said to try and incorporate nuts if you're low on fats. So I decided to give them all a try. With the calorie count being so high, I wish I didn't like them so much! I have to get out my measuring cup, fill it up, put the nuts away and then eat them. I also have found that the little individual nut and fruit packs from Trader Joes are perfect and easier for me to control my portions. PS I Love V-8 Comment edited on: 10/26/2011 12:03:05 PM Report Inappropriate Comment

SAMI199 10/25/2011 8:35PM

V-8 does have a low-sodium version-I'm not sure if it is low enough...I do like it. (lol) Report Inappropriate Comment

WONDERWOMAN 10/25/2011 5:02PM

That's funny. Personally I'm not crazy about V8 - would rather eat my veggies. My new like that I used to hate (or at least thought I did) is avocado. Now love, love, love it. Report Inappropriate Comment

RAINBOWMF 10/25/2011 4:19PM

Too much sodium in it for me plus I like to eat my real veg. Sorry just my opinion. Report Inappropriate Comment

GROEDER 10/25/2011 2:11PM

V8 is really great!!!!! I try anything new that I can find. Recently had lamb for the first time. I am glad I tried it and also glad I didn't care too much for it, at what it costs per pound. But I DID give it a try. Report Inappropriate Comment

DGIBSON02 10/25/2011 1:51PM

v8 is better mixed with vodka, roflol Report Inappropriate Comment

JLITT62 10/25/2011 1:49PM

I tried some of DH's fried conch; does that count? I'm pretty adventurous when it comes to food & try new stuff all the time. I think V8 does have a fair amt of sodium, but not sure about that. Good luck with those last long runs! Report Inappropriate Comment

MADKAPKID 10/25/2011 1:45PM

V8 is one of those things that snuck up on me. I used to not like it...now..I LOVE it! IT is great for cooking with too....as the base for soups and things like that. YEP.....I am a V8 kind of gal now. GLAD you like it too....its Sooooo good for us. Have a joy filled day....Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

NATPLUMMER 10/25/2011 1:34PM

I love V8...but I also love tomato juice. I can't think of anything new that I've tried...I guess I'll have to find something. Report Inappropriate Comment

Cooking with SPARK

Monday, October 17, 2011

I tried a new recipe from the SPARK cookbook, Broccoli and Cheese Soup. Turned out excellent, DH even loved it and ate the leftovers for lunch the next day. I will be making the turkey sausage bean stew tomorrow in the crockpot. Hopefully that will be just as delicious.



Only 178 calories per 1 cup serving. Yummy yummy, will definitely be making this again, and probably a double or triple recipe for freezing.

On an unhealthy note, just had to add this pic for all you sweet lovers out there. Ran across a colossal apple fritter at Shoppers Market in Northern Virginia. I had to bring home some for hubby, anyone have a guess on how many calories in that gianormous baby, LOL, we won't go there. I had a few BITES for dessert. Looks like something off the show "Man vs. Food". Holy Apple Fritters Batman !!!!!

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

KIKI0531 10/21/2011 10:54AM

My girls and I love broccoli/cheese soup. Will have to try the recipe. How is the grandson of yours ?? Report Inappropriate Comment

SUEAZZI 10/19/2011 9:27PM

I've never had an apple fritter... they look deliciously dangerous LOL... Report Inappropriate Comment

PARKERB2 10/18/2011 6:57PM

YUM!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEAMANDARUN 10/18/2011 11:33AM

Looks yummy! Report Inappropriate Comment

2HAMSDIET 10/18/2011 9:19AM

Thank you for the recipe review it sounds good. Even the sight of the "evil" apple monster make my heart hurt.Oh my good think it didn't have a calorie count on it. Report Inappropriate Comment

DDOORN 10/17/2011 3:37PM

We love playing with different SP recipes and have a whole bunch of regulars we use. Fritters...ugh! Downed WAY too many of those in the bad-old-days! Don Report Inappropriate Comment

JLITT62 10/17/2011 12:05PM

Sadly, I could probably eat a whole fritter myself . . . and then have a headache AND be sick to my stomach. I admire your willpower! And thanks for sharing your recipe review. Report Inappropriate Comment

DGIBSON02 10/17/2011 10:39AM

It just looks that big because you have small hands, lol. Those are actually calorie free fritters. Report Inappropriate Comment

MZSLYDE01 10/17/2011 10:14AM

OH MY - We get pictures today.... YIPPEEE... Looks great. I love the color of it when it was finished. I bet it was good. So healthy too. You're fall festive setting is nice. I love it. Those fritters don't even look good after my weekend of eating....YUCK LOL Report Inappropriate Comment

MADKAPKID 10/17/2011 10:13AM

I LOVE broccoli and cheese soup...and the pictures make me want some. Have a joy filled day, Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

NATPLUMMER 10/17/2011 10:11AM

Not a fan of broccoli and cheese soup but it looks like. I like them both separately but not together. Besides DH hates cheese. The stew sounds fab. Let me know how it turns out. The apple fritters probably have about 800-1000 calories. Report Inappropriate Comment

A slug, a snail, a bum

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Just wanted to briefly update you on the latest happenings (not much to tell) and to let you know I'm still a Spark-aholic, just been a very busy week at the office and haven't had much time to SPARK. I've missed you all.

I've been feeling like such a slug this past week, no exercise at all unless you count mowing the grass and food shopping at Walmart. My toe is healing nicely, thank goodness, but doc said at least one week with no running, so Monday I will be back at it to finish up my last few weeks of training for my upcoming half-marathon. I hope being on haitus for a week doesnt affect my running game. Can't afford to be behind.

I've been eating within range and eating healthy (95%) during this past week and that feels great to be able to say that, since I'm definitely lacking in the exercise department.

I've used this past week off from exercise to catch up on a lot of things that get neglected like.... housecleaning, food shopping, meal planning, gave dog a bath, have dinner with my Aunt Pat who is visiting from NY, etc. It was nice to catch up with all that, but I am ready to get back into the groove. Weird how your body feels without exercise. I know it affects my mood and energy levels. Can't wait to get those endorphins pumping.

Three day weekend coming up for me, going to visit my BFF. Hoping the three hour drive to Northern Virginia is not a traffic nightmare, keep your fingers crossed for smooth sailing.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

VBPARROTHEAD 10/22/2011 8:09PM

Hope the trip was great and traffic wasn't too bad! Report Inappropriate Comment

SHARON10002 10/17/2011 9:27PM

I live in Northern Virginia, too, and yes, the traffic can be a nightmare at times. Our bodies can benefit greatly from a little R&R and I know yours will be ready and rarin' to go! Comment edited on: 10/17/2011 9:29:55 PM Report Inappropriate Comment

IMSMILEY88 10/17/2011 1:04PM

I hope your toe is healed up and you are back to running! Thanks for the comment on my HM photos blog. I had to drop by and say 'hi', and I'm impressed! You've done FANTASTIC!!! (And, guess what? We're the same age! I'll be 42 next year, too!) How is training for your HM going? This is your first, right? I hope you are having a fantastic time! I completed HM#2 a week ago & am now training for HM#3 in November! Have a great day! Report Inappropriate Comment

DDOORN 10/17/2011 9:57AM

Sounds like you're making the most of a tough situation. You'll be Sparkin' soon enough! :-) Don Report Inappropriate Comment

JLITT62 10/14/2011 5:17AM

I think you'll find the rest from running actually makes you stronger - and mowing the lawn is definitely exercise! But I hear you on how frustrating it is not to be able to get those endorphins. Report Inappropriate Comment

DGIBSON02 10/13/2011 3:12PM

On the road again!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

BEACHGIRLKIM 10/13/2011 2:05PM

I'm glad your toe is healing and you'll be back to your game in no time. I'm from northern VA, good luck with the traffic. I'm so glad to be away from that! Way to knock out that list of TTD :) Report Inappropriate Comment

SAMI199 10/13/2011 10:42AM

It must be hard to be side-lined-you work so hard...Good Luck with the traffic in Nothern Va-one of the main reasons we moved-insanity-lol. Have fun with your friend! Report Inappropriate Comment

NATPLUMMER 10/13/2011 9:51AM

It does sound like you've been busy. I think you should be okay with the running. Just take it a little slower when you do your first one. Report Inappropriate Comment