Tuesday, June 30, 2015

The Weekend + Adding In A Bridge

Happy Tuesday friends and welcome to the last day in June!

Yesterday, I talked all about peaches, but today I'd like to fill you in on the weekend shenanigans!

I was able to add a bridge into my PT routine! My knee felt a bit shaky, but overall it was great to be able to do this exercise!!! Even better to do it at the beach :) 


#progress



Our weekend was simple and relaxing! It included plenty of beach time, which made my kiddos extremely happy...








They even shared a towel, which was pretty darn cute...




Feeling so thankful for my Mom helping with the kiddos (9 more days till zero crutches!!)






There is nothing better than a playground on the beach!! A little playhouse time, then jump in the ocean. #perfect. Uh, yeah - this was not my childhood! :)




I made an amazing salad (with peaches!)...





After church on Sunday, a Daddy/Daughter date happened (I also posted to my Instgram - follow along for more photos!!)...



I am going back to PT today and hopefully we will work out a plan of action of when the first run will be happening!! I know it will be baby steps: jumping on the trampoline, then five minutes of running and so on. I am learning to love the baby steps - it's all forward progress!

We as runners know the power of positive thinking. Whether you are trying to work through an injury, or training for a goal race, we have to stay positive to achieve our best!
Check out THIS great article from my friend Tina on having positive thoughts during a race.


Talk about staying positive!! I love this clip of the 800 meter final from the USATF Championships this weekend. Alysia Montano gave birth 11 months ago!! I am sure there were times she struggled with coming back from pregnancy, when most other runners were steadily training. She ROCKED this race! You can do anything if you believe...







Have an awesome day!!


What do you do when negative thoughts start to creep in your head?

Who is running a 4th of July race this weekend?!!
My kiddos are running the kids race and my friend is running the 10k on Saturday! She has been training hard for it and I am so excited to cheer her on! She has a really good chance of winning it!!

Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie

Monday, June 29, 2015

Whole Wheat Peach Muffins

Hello there beautiful friends! How was your weekend?!
We had such a fun weekend filled with sun and lots of fun. We have settled into summer, and it is absolutely wonderful. Everything has just slowed down just a bit and the kiddos are loving every minute. Swimming with friends, lots of beach time and just...hanging out!
Exciting running news ---> On July 8th, I go back to the doc and get rid of the crutches!! Woo hoo! It has been a long process - 10.5 weeks since my surgery. I will go places now, and people will say "Oh my gosh, you are STILL on crutches!" Yep! But I knew going into this, it would be a 12 week process of intense rehab. and beyond to get my total range of motion back. Anyway, the end is in sight! :)

I can hardly believe this was the last weekend in June already. July 1st is speeding our way on Wednesday, and then 4th of July this weekend!!
I can't wait to tell you about our weekend tomorrow in the weekend update!
But today, I want talk all about peaches and the yummy peach muffins I made on Sunday.

Ummmm... peaches. I love the smell, taste, and texture of peaches. I love that fresh peaches are a symbol of summer's glory. It is joyful to bring home a basket of peaches and think about what to create with them!



I was excited to make these muffins and can I be totally honest with you? I made a batch of peach muffins with almond flour on Saturday and let's just say...they didn't turn out the way I would have liked! Ha ha! Jerold tasted one and suggested I go back to the drawing board. Then Josh tasted one and said "Mommy, this needs a lot of work!" I am cracking up thinking about the memory. It was my first real "fail" at baking, and we all have to have one, right?







But, I bought tons of peaches and was determined to create a healthy, tasty muffin that would be perfect for breakfast (with your tea or coffee) or a snack. 
2nd time was a charm and I got the stamp of approval from the fam! Yay! I hope you enjoy them as much as we did. I really wanted to use only whole wheat flour for these muffins. I try to stay away from white flour as much as possible (sometimes when you are baking a cake or special dessert it can't be avoided!) and for these goodies I wanted them to be healthy, yet delicious.




Okay, I've blabbed away enough - let's get cooking!

Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl (whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar)...





In another large bowl, whisk the wet ingredients (egg, melted butter, whole milk)...





Then combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients...




Meanwhile, peel and dice 2 fresh peaches...




And add the peaches to the mixture...




Mix together lightly and pour into a 12 cup muffin pan and bake for 20-25 minutes...



Oh yeah! I would totally have one of these 60-90 minutes before a long run! #runnerfuel. You could also have one as a nice recovery snack with a glass of almond milk...


Whole Wheat Peach Muffins
By: Natrunsfar

Ingredients:

1 egg
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup melted (unsalted) butter
1 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 large fresh peaches (peeled and diced)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line 12 muffin cups

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, milk and melted butter.
Stir in the dry ingredients until fully mixed (batter will be lumpy). Stir in the peaches. Fill the 12 muffin cups and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Serve warm.


Have a happy Monday! I am linking up again with the fabulous Tina and Deborah for Meatless Monday! Cruise on over and check out their recipes and those of other great bloggers. I am sure you'll find something that you love. :)


What is your favorite summertime fruit?

Give me one highlight of your weekend!!


Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie


Friday, June 26, 2015

Friday Favorites!

Hello my friends!!

Happy Friday and the last Friday in June! I can hardly believe 4th of July is next Saturday. If you are looking for some fun ideas to celebrate, go HERE!

I am so excited about what I am loving this week!! Be inspired, be happy, be awesome. 

Here we go!


1. Amazing finish in the 10k last night!




2. This is so awesome! Looking forward to seeing the film!



An American Ascent - Film Trailer from Distill Productions on Vimeo.




3. Peaches are in season!!! I am looking forward to baking this weekend! :)





4.  THIS  instagram account!!




5. I can't wait to read this book - I love this author's books because they are 1. Set in my HAPPY PLACE and 2. Awesome indulgent beach reads!!





Have an amazing weekend!!!


Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Raceday Outfit!

Helllo my Friends!

Happy Wednesday and Happy Hump Day!!

I am super excited about my progress right now. Yesterday, I went to PT and immediately got on the bike. I felt SO comfortable riding! It was the first time since my surgery, that I felt normal. There was a lot of good energy in the room - my physical therapist and I were so happy about the progress I have made over the last couple of weeks.
I rode for 10 minutes today, but he told me I could start riding 15-20 minutes at a time!! Yay!
He also added to my growing list of PT exercises, and I can start doing the bridge exercise as well as the single leg bridge. Super exciting!
Then he went to work on my knee and it was painful. We talked about it and he said the pain was normal and we had to push through it. Tough stuff indeed, but I know the day is coming that I will be able to push, pull, bend and stretch my knee without any pain.



My quad muscle is like a floppy glob of jello right now. The muscle has disappeared, but we are doing so many exercises to strengthen those muscles. I know the hard work will pay off!

I made an amazing salad for dinner tonight!! I got home from PT at 5:15 and was in a mad dash to get dinner on the table by 5:30. I had an abundance of beautiful fruit and veggies from the market. So, I added black beans and hard boiled eggs for protein and it was a winner!!






I got so excited thinking about racing again. I haven't raced since the 5K turkey trot on Thanksgiving Day. I wanted to share with you my dream summer race outfit if I were racing this weekend!
Are you ready?


I would choose THESE shorts. I already have a couple of pair and I LOVE them. This color is so peppy, spunky and happy - very fun!






THIS super cute tank would pair nicely with the shorts...





THIS bra looks sooo comfy and I love the back...





I need a new pair of cool running sunglasses and THIS pair looks awesome - plus it's for a great cause!





I would have to race in my favorite SOCKS (in white)...







I love this HAT! I have a big head and it fits so nicely :)






I think I should upgrade my watch, don't you? (I have the basic 10 right now)






Although I am dying to try a bunch of new shoes, I think for this race I'll stick to the shoes I was fitted for last fall. I only got to put a few miles on them (they are patiently waiting in the box), but I loved them! This color would be so cool with the outfit, and it has been slightly upgraded since last year...







There you have it! My dream race day outfit. Something fun to look forward to!!


Do you have a favorite race day outfit?

What is your favorite running bra right now?


Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

The Weekend + A Small Running Update

Hi Friends! Happy Tuesday!
I'm excited to share our weekend adventure...

Sunday was definitely the highlight of the weekend!
Beautiful day...





To celebrate Father's Day and Summer Solstice, we went to one of our very favorite beaches in Malibu - El Matador Beach. It is a STUNNING beach and I highly recommend a trip! It is special for Jerold and I as we took our engagement photos there :)


The rock formations are so beautiful!


Here is what LA Weekly has to say about this incredible beach:

Best Beach for "iPhoneography": El Matador
Keep your eyes open for the tiny brown sign marking the beach, or you could miss this hidden gem between Broad Beach and Decker Canyon roads. El Matador Beach, north of Malibu, is famous for its ridged cliffs and massive rock formations. For years this beach has been a utopia for photographers and models, but lately, they're not the only ones enjoying the view. An Instagrammer's dream, El Matador is an excellent spot to capture photos of waves crashing along the rocks - which are great for making all your non-SoCal friends jealous. But be careful; you'll have a 150-foot trek down to the beach so make sure your wearing the appropriate gear. El Matador Beach Road between Broad Beach and Decker Canyon roads along Pacific Coast Highway.


It was a day filled with laughter and celebration...




I made a wonderful breakfast in the morning, and by dinner time I just wanted to relax and hang out with the fam! We stopped at Whole Foods and got our entire dinner and had a picnic on the beach!
There was lots of running around (for Jerold and the kids) ...






It was one of those unforgettable days...


#beachbaby



Let's talk about the running situation for a moment, shall we?

First, I am very excited about my new, smaller knee brace!!




It is lighter in weight and covers much less of my leg! I only have 2.5 weeks left of using my crutches!! I am now able to put 50% weight on the right leg, but I still have to use the crutches. I can drive, which is so awesome, but it is still a bit of a challenge going anywhere with SBG. I fear that if we are out and she wants to be picked up...
I am not able to pick her up and carry her around just yet.
Also, I am still not able to grocery shop, and I have to say that I miss it!!

PT: I am still going to PT 1-2 times a week and still working on all of the exercises. I can really feel a difference in the flexibility of my knee and I feel like I am getting stronger.
Sometimes I think about what a long road this has been, but it's already June! In some ways the time has flown by. I love that I can slowly ride the bike for 10 minutes at a time!
It'll be amazing to see where I am 3 months from now and 6 months from now - so much to look forward to!
But I am also loving this time - summer with my kiddos - and I don't want to wish it away.


The views are so amazing here! #nature


I had forgotten how difficult it is to get to this beach! I was getting some looks by everyone (and so many people wanted to help!) as I was making my way down the steep path and then all of the stairs to get down to the beach. I took my time and let the family go ahead. I knew I would make it one step at a time and you know what? I did! :)


What is the most beautiful beach you've ever been to?

Who is doing a speed workout today? (woo hoo!!)


Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie

Monday, June 22, 2015

Tomato and Broccoli Frittata

Ahhh, glorious summer!! It's officially summer!
Well hello my friends... how's it going?

I hope you had a wonderful weekend filled with celebration of Dads and celebration of Summer Solstice yesterday!
I will share our weekend events in my weekend update tomorrow, but today I'd like to share something else with you.

I have to admit I was tired this weekend. The first full week of having all 3 kiddos at home with me was so fun, but lots of juggling. Plus, I am still on crutches and can only put 50% weight on my right foot (Only 2.5 weeks left of crutches!!!), which can make some tasks tricky. I am thankful that Josh and Megan are at the ages (Megan turned 5 last Tuesday, and Josh is 8) that they are a huge help and very independent!

Anyway, I needed to plan what to make for Jerold's Father's Day breakfast. I wanted to make it special for him, and something that everyone would love. Something pretty simple to make that would be filling for the 5 of us. Have I at all mentioned that my kiddos eat like they are trying out for the 49ers?! I mean WHERE they put the massive amounts of food that they consume I have no idea.
I do know that I have to be equipped and ready to feed them healthy, substantial food at all times...





So I made this awesome frittata! This is really great any time - for a weekend brunch or make ahead and then reheat during the week. The reheat and eat later doesn't really work for me, because there is usually zero left! Ha! :)
This would also be pretty cool for dinner too!

Okay, sooo normally I have all of these pretty pictures of the ingredients and making the dish step by step. Today, I was in survival mode, because the kiddos were starving (although they already had been snacking on fruit!) and I was in full focus to get this ready. 
But. You are still going to love it :)

Tomato and Broccoli Frittata


Ingredients:

4 tsp. olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic
3 cups broccoli florets
8 large eggs
1/2 tsp. salt
2 cups organic tomatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 TBS. fresh oregeno

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425ºF. Heat 2 tsp oil in 12-inch skillet with oven-proof handle over medium-low heat. Add onion and garlic; cook stirring often, until softened and lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Wash and dry skillet.
Steam broccoli until crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Refresh under cold running water to stop it from cooking. Drain well and pat dry.
Blend eggs, salt and pepper with a fork in large bowl. Add tomatoes, cheese, oregano, sautéed onion, and steamed broccoli; mix well.
If your skillet is not nonstick, coat it with cooking spray (not necessary, if using nonstick skillet). Add remaining 2 teaspoons oil to skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Swirl to coat bottom evenly. Add egg mixture. Immediately transfer skillet to oven. Bake, uncovered, until top is lightly browned and set, 25 to 30 minutes.
There are several ways to serve this frittata: The simplest is to leave the frittata in the skillet and cut wedges from the skillet. To unmold the frittata, run a spatula around sides and lift frittata to make sure it has not stuck to skillet. If your skillet has sloping sides, carefully slide frittata onto serving platter. If you skillet has straight sides, invert serving platter over skillet. Grasping platter and skillet with oven mitts, carefully invert skillet. Lift off 

Along with the frittata, I made whole wheat pancakes and we had fresh fruit. Very tasty indeed!
Josh was very happy to display the final product!



And Jerold was super happy with his special breakfast in bed morning!


I have to share this beautiful sunset pic we took in celebration of Summer Solstice...


A perfect way to end a beautiful day!!
Once again I am linking up with Tina and Deborah for Meatless Monday! Goooo, check out their blogs and be inspired by awesome recipes!
Happy Monday!

What did you do for Father's Day?
Do you celebrate Summer Solstice?
Favorite breakfast food?

Happy Is Running Life!
xo,
Natalie

Friday, June 19, 2015

Friday Favorites!

Happy Friday Friends!
It's the 19th day of June, summer starts on Sunday AND it's Father's Day!
Can't you feel the sweetness of summer all around you?
We have been going to town on watermelon and strawberries lately, and my two older kiddos are finishing up a week of vacation Bible camp today.
I have been savoring the small moments, the sound of laughter from a rousing game of tag, popsicles in the backyard and sand...everywhere.
I am grateful, blessed and happy. I hope you guys are enjoying June as much as we are!

Okay, let me share with you the cool things that I am loving this week!


1. First up, I am so excited about this film! I have known the Harper Family for many years and Gus is a sweet friend of mine. Gus and I ran cross country in college, and he took me on a beautiful trail run last December. I can't wait to start running with him again. Gus is also a talented, wonderful artist, so be sure and check out his work!! This film is about his amazing brother Curt and it premieres at the end of June. Here is the trailer...





2. Whether you are flying off on vacation or going to the beach THIS beach tote is so pretty. I love the huge pop of color! I would carry this bag everywhere!





3.  I love THIS nail polish - great colors for summer!




4.  It's National Flip Flop Day!!






5. I LOVE THIS! DIY Flowers pots! They are so pretty and would add a wonderful pop of summer color to a room in your house. Super easy to make too :)




Bonus for the week: Just want to say a big Happy Birthday to Megan who turned five on Tuesday!!






Have a wonderful weekend!!

Happiness Is Running Life!


xo,
Natalie

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Fun Ideas For Fourth Of July!

One of the biggest highlights of summer is celebrating the 4th of July!
It really is a wonderful time of the year: summer is in full force, the weather is hot, and you can smell the BBQ in the air. 4th of July is the biggest holiday of the summer and it is so fun to celebrate!

Here are some fun ideas to add a little (or a lot!) of red, white and blue in your life over 4th of July weekend (it's on a Saturday this year - woo hoo!).

1. Making fun patriotic treats! Here are some great dessert ideas for the 4th!

4th of July wands! An easy, simple way to make a patriotic, healthy treat for kids and adults! 






If you remember my post from Memorial Day, you know how much I love this cake! I make it two times a year: Memorial Day and 4th of July. Come to think of it, I made it for Labor Day once also. Anyway, it is a labor of love, since the cake is homemade and you have to make two cakes. But, it's so fun and the cake tastes awesome! It's also fun to see who wants the raspberry piece vs. the blueberry piece. :)





This is another amazing dessert that I made on Memorial Day, and I think it is PERFECT for your July 4th celebration! I love that it is cold and refreshing!! Can we talk about the edible spoons? My kiddos loved this so much and it'll be a hit at your 4th of July celebration! Going to the beach, lake or park? You can pack up this dessert and take it with you! Make the spoons in advance, then pack the ice cream and sherbert on ice with disposable bowls - don't forget your ice cream scooper - and assemble when you get to your destination!




4th of July flag cupcakes are really fun to make too! Simply bake vanilla cupcakes with vanilla icing. Then add red sprinkles and pipe blue icing in the shape of a flag! These are great to make the day before your party.










2. Go to a 4th of July parade! This is one of our family's favorite things to do on July 4th. It is so, so fun and a great way to celebrate our's nation's independence.






And don't forget to shop for something festive and patriotic to wear! You can bet I'll be wearing the flag tee shirt I had on for Memorial Day! :) Are you following me on Instagram? You can see the cake and the shirt there too!


3. Run a race!! 4th of July races are SO fun - you get in a good speed workout before eating BBQ and delicious desserts and you feel like you accomplished something! Even if you don't go for a PR, it is just fun to get out there and celebrate the day!

July 4th 5k race last year! I got first in my age group :)


4. Make a delicious breakfast that will knock their socks off and get your fun day started right!
My kiddos were jumping for joy over this flag toast! Bonus ---> adding small American flags to your table, always makes it extra special :)




Make it red, white and blue festive!





5. Of course, what is 4th of July without fireworks?!




Here is a wonderful way to bring snacks while you watch fireworks (or the parade!)
I love this, because it is a fun, easy craft for kids! Grab some to go containers (think Chinese food) from a craft store and then decorate with stickers and ribbons. Fill with popcorn, pretzels or any fun snack!




2 1/2 weeks till 4th of July! I hope this helps you get the ball rolling on some fun celebration ideas!



Do you travel or stay home for 4th of July?

Ever ran a 4th of July race?


Happiness Is Running Life!

xo,
Natalie