7Dec/100

Winter Boots

December 7th, 2010

The snow will not stop me!

Today is a wonderful day for a walk/jog, don’t you think?

I got my boots! And, I must say, they are all I dreamed and more. They are made by Keen, and they caught my eye at DSW because they were cute, yet serious. ;) “Withstanding up to -25 degrees F” sealed the deal. Since they didn”t have my size at the store, I ordered online. 65 fair dollars and two days later the adventure began.

They displayed their glory as I stepped into the previously intimidating snow piles along the yard and streets.

I was giggling as I enjoyed trotting around the snowy yard… just for fun.

Walk/jogs are safer now with snow traction. My toes are toasty. I am so thankful.

On my walk this morning I was thinking about how easy it is to stay inside and not realize what we are missing – the sun, fresh crisp air, exercise, and a mental break all in one!  I believe these simple breaks outside can help keep a perspective of the big picture of life.

The Psalms are filled with poetic description of the beauty God has made just for us.

Psalm 96:11 in the Message Bible reads…

“Let’s hear it from Sky,

With Earth joining in,

And a huge round of applause from Sea…”

I have learned that when God speaks, he is usually quieter than me.

My fitQuest‘s real challenge, then, is not to do more, but to do what matters.  Keeping my focus on what matters is the foundation I have needed to make time for things like exercise and healthy meal planning…  keeping life in this perspective is a lifelong Quest and not a one-time accomplishment.

I pray you see your life as an adventure to live and not a standard to ‘maybe achieve’ if you work hard enough.

You are made to star in the adventure of life God has planned for you.  You matter to God.

What matters to you?

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9Nov/101

Sprouted Bean and Turmeric Puree

November 9th, 2010

I like to keep some sprouted grains and legumes on hand for my spontaneous meal creations.

Sprouted beans!

This week I sprouted chickpeas, kidney beans, and white beans with things in mind like hummus, purée, and broth soups.

Tonight, I had purée on the mind, and I was imagining the taste of what I wanted – but I couldn’t put my finger on it. Google didn’t seem to have the magic answer, so I decided to start the purée by faith and see what would happen.

I cooked the sprouted beans in water until soft, then put them in the blender with some kefir. As I puréed the beans, I noticed something very important missing from my edible creation – color.

And then, the inspiration – turmeric!

Turmeric is tasty in small amounts, great for adding color, and boasts iron, vitamin C, and manganese. Just a half a teaspoon was the ticket to sweet victory.

I’m imagining this purée alongside beef, chicken, or tempeh…  or topped with prosciutto.

And if you’ve only been inviting parsley to the party for its good looks, you should know that its flavor brings balance to this dish, even in small amounts. ;)

That’s my inspiration, what’s yours?
I would be glad to hear your ideas and experiences with this or any other bean purée.

But, whatever you do…

Enjoy what you eat today!

Sprouted Bean and Turmeric Puree

Sprouted Bean and Turmeric Puree

(Remember, I am not a measurer! This recipe can be adjusted to your liking.)

Ingredients:

  • Sprouted Beans – About 2 cups (I used chickpeas, white beans, and kidney beans)
  • Kefir – about 1/2 cup
  • Olive oil – 1 tsp
  • Honey – about 1 tsp
  • Salt – 1/2 tsp
  • Turmeric – 1/2 tsp
  • Water – about 3/4 cup or enough to get your desired consistency.

Directions:

Place sprouted beans in a pot, add just enough water to cover the beans, then bring to a boil.
Turn heat down and simmer until beans are softened.
Rinse beans and put into blender.
Add all other ingredients (kefir, water, salt, olive oil, honey, and turmeric).
Purée, adding water until desired consistency.
(Blending time will vary depending on your blender/food processor…)
Taste and see!

BTW…
We enjoyed this purée tonight with a medium-rare lamb shoulder seared in the cast iron skillet… flavor fireworks!

Posted in Eating, Recipes | 1 Comment »

30Oct/100

A Piece of Toast – My Short-Lived Low-Carb Days

October 30th, 2010

I just ate a piece of toast and remembered the days I thought I may never eat bread again.

by "penguincakes" at Flickr

You see, in my fitQuest journey, I have encountered several “food predators.” One of them is the low carb theory.

I was exposed to low carb eating through magazines promoting Hollywood fitness secrets, by following “figure athletes” and bodybuilders on the web, and through regular conversations with people who had tried it.
I was looking for the magic silver bullet that would make me lean, strong and healthy.  If eliminating carbohydrates from my meals would make me shed the extra pounds from my thighs, then I would do it!

I tried it for about a month, and it was not fun…  in fact, it was miserable.
Any type of eating out or socializing was a challenge and a tease. I never felt satisfied after eating, and my experience with food cravings went to another level – you’ll understand what I mean if you’ve ever been there.

To make matters worse, at the end of that month, I wasn’t even any leaner, stronger, or healthier!

But here is why I am glad I tested this food “rule”:

  • As I learned to pay attention to carbohydrates, I found that I had been eating WAY more carbs than my body needed.  This helped me balance my nutrition after my low-carb experience.
  • I can now relate to those who have tried low-carb eating, whether it worked for them or not.
  • I learned that it is not a super-secret magic fat loss weapon, contrary to how I have seen it marketed.
  • I experienced a way of eating that did not feel natural or simple – which helped me recognize what did work for me once I found it.

I am so glad low-carb isn’t the magic cure – because if it was, I wouldn’t have just enjoyed my piece of toast (topped generously with almond butter and a drizzle of honey).
Oh the joy!  ;)

Now that I know that I can achieve and maintain a lean, strong body while still eating carbohydrates – even bread – I can add carbs to my fitQuest goodie bag!

How about you?

  • Have you lost weight while still eating carbs?
  • Have you lost weight while eliminating carbs?
  • What do you believe about carbs and fat loss?

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21Oct/101

Dancing with the leaves

October 21st, 2010

Have you gotten out to enjoy the weather today?

Here in Minnesota, we shouldn’t take for granted these precious days of sun and ice-free noses.

Today, I kicked myself out of the house and into the fall breeze of the late afternoon.  I went on what I call a walk/jog… and it was wonderful, the leaves were chasing me.  :)

Even though cardiovascular-based exercise is not my strength (I would much rather be in my living room doing pushups and squats), I was reminded how much a little time outside lifts my perspective on life.
It is so easy to skip the very things that we need.

With that in mind, I make it a priority to get outside and enjoy the fresh air every day – even if it’s only for a few minutes.
After all, we were made for the outdoors!

In addition to my indoor exercise, I know I need to be getting outside every week for exercise – even through the coming winter. Grr! I am bummed and excited at the same time – I know God is telling me it’s what’s best for me…  but it’s going to be cold out there!

So, now I have made my commitment public – and I have you to hold me accountable, one winter at a time.  :)

Now to go shopping for some snow boots.  ;)

Fall Wind by *clarity* at Flickr

Boots. :)

Posted in Fitness | 1 Comment »

16Oct/102

Connect! STWCI Ladies Expo – Special Note

October 16th, 2010

A special word for the ladies at the expo…

What a beautiful day!

I am sure you were as encouraged as I was by the resounding peace and joy that was present as we talked, listened and shared with each other on many levels.

I had so much fun meeting and talking with all of you.
As I remember your great questions and comments, I am so excited to share new quick recipes, as well as talk with you about eating, exercise habits, and overall nutrition.
Many of you expressed an interest in ideas for smoothies and other quick healthy meals – more are on the way!

The overall theme I felt from you was that God is whispering in your heart to pursue healthier eating and exercise habits.
Some of you have already made healthy changes in your life, and had great results to show for it!
You can achieve even more than what you imagine right now!

The post below is a recap of what I shared with you today. Let me know about your experience with these recipes and how you made them your own.
Think of recipes as inspiration – there is no need to follow them exactly, so adjust and make them your own as your creativity leads you!

Thanks for stopping by and thanks again to all the people who worked so hard to make the Ladies Expo happen!

I look forward to sharing more with you soon!

Posted in Eating | 2 Comments »

15Oct/104

Nutrition tips from superchick fitness

October 15th, 2010

Eating nutritious food is fun, simple, and essential!

Here are three ways to care for your beautiful body through nutrition today…

Frozen spinach rocks!

Spinach adapts to flavors well, so it can be added to meals you already like to make, like rice and pasta dishes. It is great as a side with sweet or savory spices. It is convenient, quick and affordable! It even tastes great in a smoothie!

Check out the three spinach recipes later in this post.

Fresh fruits and veggies are the original fast food!

Many of these nutrient packed foods come individually sized and are ready to eat with just a rinse of water.

Some quick nutrition choices that require no preparation are: apples, bananas, snap peas, berries, oranges, grapes, kiwi, peaches, and baby carrots.

Nutrition in your purse!

Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, granola bars, crackers, and cereals are other great choices that you can take on the go.

When choosing a pre-packaged snack like a granola bar, there are two important nutrients to keep in mind for a balanced and satisfying snack: PROTEIN and FIBER.

Look for at least 5g protein and 3g fiber per 200 calorie serving.

Spinach recipes!

Here are some of my favorite spinach recipes.  Experiment with adding spinach to your favorite dishes!

Sweet Side of Spinach

1 bag (16oz.) frozen cut leaf spinach
2 tsp oil
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup raisins
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp sugar or honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash of curry powder
Dash of cayenne pepper

Cook spinach and oil in saucepan over medium heat for about 3 minutes or until fully thawed.
Add everything else, cook 1 more minute, and serve.

Makes about 5 servings.

Berry Green Smoothie

1 cup frozen spinach
1 cup frozen strawberries
1 cup frozen blueberries
½ frozen banana
1 cup of milk
1 cup of water
1 tsp sweetener of choice

Add all ingredients in blender.
Pulse at first and work up to blending on high for about a minute or until desired smoothness.
Depending on your blender, you may have to add more liquid or shake it a little to encourage mixing.

Makes 1 large serving or 2 small servings.

Spinach Marinara

1 jar (25 oz) pasta sauce
1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach

Combine in a saucepan and cook uncovered over medium heat until spinach is evenly mixed in and sauce is slightly thickened.

Makes about 5 servings.

Health is not a destination, but a constant adjustment to the changes that happen to our bodies.
Enjoy the journey!

“Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and
be in health, even as your soul prospers .” 3 John 1:2

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Posted in Eating, Recipes | 4 Comments »

5Oct/101

An African Kale Tale

October 5th, 2010

Today for lunch, I knew I wanted to make something with a tortilla, the last egg, and some kale.

If you have not added kale to your pantry or palate yet, this may be a fun introduction.
Kale was a mystery food to me a few months ago. Then I found this recipe for Kale Chips. I was intrigued. Then I was hooked. That was the beginning of a friendship. We now meet every week or so to enjoy each others’ bright, yet earthy qualities. ;)

Injera at FlamingoI recently had the pleasure of enjoying East African food, particularly dishes served on a really yummy bread called injera. Injera is a spongy, stretchy, sourdough-y ‘bread’ that is flat like a tortilla but much larger. It needs a special plate!

If you have never had injera, I encourage you to find the closest Ethiopian restaurant and schedule a date with someone. We have a dear church friend who owns Flamingo, an Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant in Saint Paul – if you make it there your belly will be glad you did.  :)

I look forward to making this bread at home someday. We did some research, and it seems to be an art which requires special equipment… so it’s on our someday hobby list.

The fun part about eating with injera is that it serves as the eating utensil as well.
An edible spoon?! Of course that’s a great idea. And it really is lots of fun, too!
You tear off a piece and grab or scoop up some food and bring it to your mouth for wonderful mix of textures and tastes.

With my kale, my tortilla, and my egg I used inspiration from the African culture, combined with my craving for B vitamins – I mean an egg, and created a joyful and satisfying lunch I will not soon forget. I may have to have this again tomorrow – it was that good.

Recipe: Kale and Egg on Mock Injera

To Buy:

  • Kale – 1 bunch
  • Egg – 1 or 2 per serving
  • Tortilla – 1
  • Cheese – 1 tablespoon or so
  • Oil
  • Salt and pepper

To Do:

  • Pull kale off of stems and tear into pieces. Discard stems.
  • Wash and dry kale (I love my lettuce spinner)
  • Heat oil (I like olive, grape seed or sunflower) in a large pot or skillet on medium high with salt and pepper.
  • Add kale with a couple tablespoons of water and cover for a minute.
  • During this minute you can cook the egg(s) over easy and heat the tortilla.
  • Keep stirring kale until all is cooked. Will be slightly wilted and bright green.
  • Add more salt and pepper if desired.
  • Take the kale you will use and chop it into pieces.
  • Place a tortilla on a plate, add chopped kale to the middle, place egg(s) on top of kale, sprinkle cheese over egg(s). I like a little more salt and pepper over everything.

Enjoy breaking the egg yolk over the kale and biting into this crunchy and creamy treat.
But even if this isn’t on your menu…

…Enjoy whatever you eat today…

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Posted in Eating, Recipes | 1 Comment »

5Oct/100

A Mini Adventure

October 5th, 2010

I purchased too many ‘breads’ last week and now have these goodies to play with:

  • whole wheat tortillas
  • mini pita pockets (so cute)
  • sprouted bread
  • and ak-mak crackers

… on top of our very well stocked whole grain and legume pantry (which will serve us well for the next several ‘cool’ months. I mean freezing!)

So this morning I scan the fridge and my brain for fun resourceful ideas. Those mini pita pockets just haven’t displayed their full potential yet, so I’m kinda set on them. They usually break apart in any attempt to cut open and fill them-but toasting did the trick! I was able to get a clean cut and fill them with a scrambled egg delight. They held up nicely. :)

I whisked together one egg, red pepper and tomato pieces, dried herbs de provincial, and salt and pepper. I scrambled the egg mixture lightly, then melted shredded Toscana Parmesan cheese (it’s a creamier and sweeter version) over top as I toasted and cut the mini pitas.

Here you go!

I really enjoyed this warm breakfast.  I call them Toasted and Filled Mini Pita Pockets.
As always, the possibilities are endless! I can imagine:

  • a more filling version made with salmon and eggs.
  • a green meal of the day by adding frozen spinach or seaweed.
  • a healthy alternative to the egg McMuffin – add bacon or sausage topped with maple syrup! (Use vegan sausage if you want…  ;) )

You could double up the pitas by placing one open mouth over the other and create a breakfast calzone of a different sort!
I really do get excited about the endless possibilities of food!
Create your own mini pita adventure!

…Enjoy what you eat today…

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