Supergirl's Blog

Sunday Favorites

2013-05-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

This is a Sunday in a very long time that I'm not out running. It feels weird but also good to sleep in and not worry about my mileage.

My favorites this week are a bit crafty. I think I'm feeling the crafty mojo even after my sweater debacle. Enjoy!

1. reds, 2. blues, 3. 1,280 one-inch hexagons, 4. Horses, 5. Some deliciousness from a beautiful shoot day with the dream team @jossherd73 & @schonnemann, 6. Food Revolution Day! These beauties are courtesy of the Meringue Girls #FRD2013, 7. Molly's Sketchbook: Simple Four Square Quilt, 8. i sorted the stars by color and realized that i made two stars with the same fabric, so i got to make one more., 9. Hamburger at home. #hammayburgers @nathangale testing the new #ABeautifulMess iPhone app too!, 10. linen doilies!, 11. Brown Butter, Sweet Potato Blondies with White Chocolate, Dried Cranberries, and Pepitas. blogged!, 12. Cauchy calls again, 13. More of this, please, 14. _MG_5211, 15. Missing the ox. Missing the burger. Missing our friend. Missing what was. #latergram, 16. Breathtaking Oahu. #Hawaii, 17. in progress :: Narragansett, 18. in progress :: Narragansett, 19. Sleeveless On A Beauty, 20. week two hundred & five, 21. Hello, there! #pigeon #Waikiki, 22. Our beautiful, strong, loyal boys., 23. shop till your bike drops, 24. HipstaPrint, 25. Spring

Riiiiiiiiiipppppppp.....

2013-05-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

My local yarn store recently had their yearly yarn sale and so I decided to pick up yarn for Molly's 2 year sweater. Molly even selected the color, purple. Once I got the yarn, I decided that I should just knit the sweater now so that I wasn't rushing when her birthday neared. I started the sweater on our ride up to Vancouver.

I carefully swatched, nailed the gauge and measured Molly's chest (21"). With all the details on my side, I cast on for the 2 year old size which should come out at 25" so perfect! room to grow! I knit on the sweater for most of the trip. I got all the way to the shoulders! I felt victorious! Only the sleeves and hood to go! This was going very well!

I decided to try the sweater on Molly. And that is when the sad trombone sang its song. The sweater was already tight on Molly's shoulders. I checked my gauge again and I was spot on. I checked Molly's measurements again, yep, still 21" chest. I look at the directions. Hmmmmm.....so I decided to rip. I'm going to make the 4 year old size and hopefully it won't be huge. But if it is, that means there will be room to grow! Now of course I need to go and buy more yarn.

Kale Basil Pesto

2013-05-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

We recently visited some friends in Canada. The wife is a fantastic cook and always has great ideas for getting more super foods into our diets. She made dinner for us one night and made a special meal for Molly and her son. It looked simple enough, some pasta with some pesto sauce on it.

Molly inhaled it and tried to eat all of her friend's food too. I asked my friend what she had put into it because I was sooooo making this when we got home. She said that she buys pesto at the store and adds some kale and walnuts to it before freezing it in small batches.

I pondered this recipe for the rest of the week, we were on vacation. One of my former co-workers used to make HUGE batches of pesto every summer and then give out jars at Christmas. These were coveted jars of pesto. My parents used to steal my jar if they saw it in my fridge. The pesto is that good.

When we got home, I poured through my email and found her recipe. I knew that I wanted to change it though so I could add in the kale and walnuts. I made a few other tweaks to the recipe and I have to say that it is GOOOOD! Molly and I enjoyed the pesto in our eggs this morning and I can't wait to have some fresh pasta with pesto for dinner.

I was thrown back a bit to Molly's puree days as I froze the pesto in the Tovolo Perfect Cube Silicone Ice Cube Trays. I forgot how useful these trays can be though. I think I'll be using them to freeze fresh herbs from my herb garden, chicken broth, concentrated syrups, etc.

Kale Basil Pesto
makes 4 cups

Ingredients
6 cloves of garlic, peeled
4 cups packed fresh basil
1/4 cup parsley
2 cups steamed Kale
2 cups Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
1 cup toasted pine nuts
1 cup walnuts
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups olive oil (more or less)

Directions
1. Toss the garlic into your food processor and pulse it for a few seconds.
2. Add the basil, parley, kale, cheese, pine nuts, walnuts and salt to the garlic and pulse the food processor again.
3. Slowly add your olive oil through the spout until the pesto is smooth. Scrape down the sides and run again for about 15 seconds.
4. You can either spoon your pesto into clean canning jars or into ice cube trays to freeze. I bought out my silicon ice cube trays from when I made Molly's baby food and used those. I spooned the pesto into the trays and then thumped them on the counter to level them out. Then I wrapped them in foil overnight. Once the pesto was frozen, I took the cubes out of the trays and put them into ziplock bags. Now I have 1 ounce cubes of pesto ready for pasta, chicken, pizza or eggs!

Pinterest Thursday - Knitted Bunny

2013-05-16T13:00:00.003-07:00

Thank you so much for all the great advice last Thursday. I will be making your suggested pins starting next week. I have some materials to gather first!

This week I decided to tackle the Bunny from a Knitted Square. I figured it couldn't be too hard. Ha! Those were my famous last words. Note: I've seen this pinned all over with a link to a Japanese site. I decided to Google and found the original source. I've cleaned up my pins to direct to the proper site.

I started with a knitted square out of some leftover angora. I cast on 28 stitches on size 6 needles and knit until my square was as long as it was wide; about 5" x 5". I watched Call the Midwife while knitting the square which made everything more delightful. I love that show. If you are not watching it, you need to start.

I then sewed a running stitch of matching yarn through the middle of the square. I folded the square in half to find the center, rather than guessing. I tied a knot in the end of one side of the yarn.

Then I completed sewing a triangle, using running stitch, through the top of the square.

Next I tugged on the yarn and started pulling the square together. Like magic, it started looking like a bunny!

See the ears?

I next stuffed the head before using mattress stitch to sew up the body. I stuffed the body before sewing it all up with some poly-fil. I feel like I either over-stuffed or under-stuffed because I'm not 100% in love with my bunny. He needs something but I'm not sure what.

I added a ribbon to give him some flair and I may re-do the tail but all in all a fun project! This is going to be part of a baby shower gift that I'm putting together. The baby won't care at all that the bunny isn't perfect!

The Wednesday Links from Around The Web 5.15.2013 Edition

2013-05-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

Best Gas Station Fill-up Ever!

Angelina's Medical Choice

A Message to Abercrombie

Capital T truth on being an adult

The Mother is REVEALED!

Oooooh Canada!

2013-05-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

After running the Vancouver Half Marathon, we went on a vacation around British Columbia. We stayed in Vancouver for a few extra days to visit friends. Molly and their kid were very smitten with each other. There were hugs, shoves and kisses as per the normal course for an almost 3 year old and an 18 month old.

Our friends had us over for dinner two nights in a row which was a delight! Lindz is an excellent cook and their house gave Molly plenty of room to get her wiggles out. The hotel room was constraining her wiggling.

Lindz also took us to the beach, Spanish Banks which was awesome! It was low tide so we were able to go really far out and the kids looked for crabs. The 3 year old was unfortunately pinched by one. He had the saddest look on his face when he was re-telling us the story; one which he shared quite a few times as the crab pinching was traumatic.

After leaving Vancouver, we headed via ferry to the Sunshine Coast to stay up in Halfmoon Bay at Rockwater Secret Cove Resort. The Sunshine Coast is a beautiful place and a wonderful place to hike, relax, bike and take in the beauty.

It was still early in the season so our family hike to Smuggler Cove was unfortunately cut short due to excessive water over the path.

Molly hiked most of Smuggler Cove by herself which made me really proud of her. It also meant that we wore her out which is our goal every single day. We don't always attain it but when we do, it is a thing of beauty.

There were a few areas of the hike that Scott ended up carrying Molly on due to safety concerns. The bridges didn't have railings on both sides and Molly is a curious child. The swampy water was not something I wanted to dive into so I could fish Molly out.

Toward the end of the hike, we decided to put her in the Beco Gemini so I could carry her the rest of the way. In typical toddler fashion, this led to a breakdown and photos by her mean parents. Luckily I was able to calm her with some bouncing and singing but really Molly just wants to run free and doesn't understand why sometimes her parents don't want her to run free.

Overall the hike was BEAUTIFUL! I wish we could have made it all the way out to the cove but the water was getting deeper and the hike-around was down a steep cliff which felt impossible with Molly.

On our way back, we ran into a local who suggested that we head down to Sargeant Bay Beach where we could enjoy our lunch and Molly could run wild. The beach was beautiful and we saw an Eagle resting on the beach. It was HUGE!

Molly spent her time collecting pine cones and rocks at the beach. She had a delightful time. We ended up eating our lunch in the car as the weather turned while we were at the beach and it was chilly. It was a gorgeous beach though and we're thankful for the local who gave us the tip to go there.

The resort had a beautiful looking pool so I decided to take Molly swimming. She loves swimming and I thought it would be a fun activity for all of us. The pool was glacier cold though. Molly didn't seem to mind but after about 10 minutes, my teeth were chattering and I was covered in goosebumps. Brrrrrr!

After a few days on the Sunshine Coast, we headed up to Whistler. We arrived at the ferry a bit too early so Scott spent the hour wait, teasing me about my promptness. We did not miss the ferry so he can thank me for that! In fact, we were the first car on the ferry and had a great view.

BC Ferries have kids play rooms and they are GREAT! Molly had some time to play with other kids and run off some of her energy. We needed her tired for the drive up to Whistler. Luckily we wore her out and she slept most of the ride up the mountain.

We spent one quick night in Whistler but it was fun. They have some really nice activities for kids and a nice park. We spent a lot of time on the swings with Molly. She likes to yell, Wheeeeee! as she swings now which is adorable.

Once we arrived in Whistler, we enjoyed some Gelato which meant that Molly enjoyed it all over her stroller and outfit. Scott and I were a bit neater and didn't smear ice cream all over.

After leaving Whistler, we stopped in Bellingham to visit Scott's cousin. She's attending university there and we wanted to take her out to dinner. It was so nice to see her and to watch her with Molly. They have a great time together.

We arrived home late on Friday and the cats greeted us with excitement. I think they were even happy to see Molly. They had a great time with their cat sitter but they love Scott so much and miss him when he's gone. We are now settling back into the everyday and getting back to a healthy diet. There was a lot of grease and chocolate consumed on the trip but it was tasty.

Ran Like a MOTHER!

2013-05-13T13:36:00.001-07:00

I started my second Mother's Day with the Run Like a Mother 5K and it was so much fun! Two of my friends from PEPS also did the race and they also had a blast. The course was all terrain from concrete to gravel, dirt and even a wooden bridge over a stream. We covered it all.

My morning started out with a breakfast of eggs and toast made by Scott. We then headed over to Warren G. Magnuson Park for the 5K. The parking was tight but since this was a small race, we were able to quickly find it and then locate my friends.

Scott and Molly headed off to the park and I headed to the start line. The atmosphere at the start line was full of fun. There were all types of Moms there from Mother/Daughter teams, stroller sets and even some pregnant runners.

I started out the run with my friend, Teresa. We sprinted away from the start and I quickly knew that I had started out TOO FAST! I tried to keep up the pace but then panted to Teresa, "GOOO (gasp) AHEAD (gasp)!" After she ran off, I slowed my pace but kept running. I wanted to try to run the entire first mile but that didn't happen. The first mile felt SOOOOOOO LOOOOOONG! Laurie commented on that too. I think after running 13.1 miles a week before and then not doing anything at all for the rest of the week, my legs were not ready for the first mile.

I got to the first mile marker and felt strong. I pretty much ran the entire second mile which felt great. As I approached mile three, I wanted to walk but a volunteer (a young teenager) would not allow that. He yelled, "YOU CAN NOT WALK PAST ME! YOU MUST RUN!" It was just the motivation I needed. I kept running.

The signs along the course were getting more motivational as the finish line approached. At about 2.9 miles, two girls sprinted across the field toward their Mom who was just in front of me. They said they were going to run their Mom in. It was the sweetest thing ever.

I run toward the finish line and one sign made me laugh. It said, "The finish line is near and so are your kids". My friends and I later commented that the sign might not be the right motivation depending on how your kids were acting that day.

Scott and Molly were waiting for me right before the finish line so I made sure to look super fast as I ran by. I'm not sure that Molly was impressed with my running. I think she just wanted to be back at the park in the swings. It still is nice to have two such dedicated fans cheering me on when I run.

I came in around 43 minutes and learned that the first finisher came in around 17 minutes. WHOA! Go Momma! That is zooooooom impressive.

I found my friends after the race at the playground and we chatted about the race. Then Molly, Scott and I headed to Top Pot Doughnuts for some doughnuts. Heck, it was Mother's Day and I ran a 5K. I was having a doughnut. It was a good one. My friend Laurie was also there. Molly mooched some doughnut off Laurie before settling in for her own very large doughnut. The kid was hyped up on sugar! It is a good thing she doesn't get doughnuts very often.

After enjoying our sugary feast, we headed home where Molly took a 2.5 hour nap. After she woke up, we enjoyed dinner with my brother, SIL and their baby girl. It was nice celebrating my SIL's first Mother's Day with her. Molly loved seeing her cousin who is growing up so fast! She's working on crawling and I suspect she'll be there soon. Molly is going to love her mobility.

Sunday Favorites

2013-05-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day! How will you be spending this day? I'm running the Run Like a Mother 5K and eating donuts. Enjoy my favorites while I do this!

1. week two hundred & five, 2. Hello, there! #pigeon #Waikiki, 3. Our beautiful, strong, loyal boys., 4. shop till your bike drops, 5. HipstaPrint, 6. Spring, 7. I cut and chop, she dumps it in. #shrimpstirfry, 8. pour le plaisir, 9. Untitled, 10. IMG_1426, 11. Sideways Shawl, 12. on my desk..., 13. Untitled, 14. Just some more swoopy hair is left., 15. 5 Days in May, 16. View from the orange corral. Ready to run! #bloomsday #spokane, 17. I took an epic hike with @cliftonburt yesterday evening., 18. Aloha, Oahu! Waz up?, 19. Currently: Waikiki Beach. #jellyfish, 20. progress on my hexagons..., 21. day 124/365, 22. IMG_16121, 23. Everything is awesome. Hella Vegan, 24. Finished my Sideways Shawl at #NESCBWI13 !!, 25. Soprano Rebecca L. Hargrove

April Photo a Day

2013-05-11T08:14:00.000-07:00

I'm a few days late showing this but here are my April Photo a Days. I'm continuing on with May! I get all of my photo prompts from FatMumSlim. Come join us!

1. Play #fmsphotoaday Molly and I play a lot!, 2. Blue #fmsphotoaday this blue bowl used to hold decorative pieces. Now it is yet another container for toys., 3. Starts with A #fmsphotoaday Apples and Avocados, 4. This happened today #fmsphotoaday Molly discovered the train table at the pool., 5. Something Good #fmsphotoaday My wee cherry tree is in full bloom glory!, 6. Air #fmsphotoaday Playing in the fresh, cold air this morning., 7. Dreamy #fmsphotoaday, 8. On my plate #fmsphotoaday we had buffalo chicken salad for dinner., 9. Tiny #fmsphotoaday my wardrobe only has the tiniest bit of color., 10. A Place #fmsphotoaday At the doctor's with the whiny sick child., 11. Detail #fmsphotoaday, 12. In The Middle #fmsphotoaday Kato always lies in between Scott & I after Molly goes to bed., 13. View from my bed #fmsphotoaday there always seems to be a cat butt in my view., 14. Water #fmsphotoaday, 15. Alone #fmsphotoaday I am never alone anymore but when I am, I knit, read and catch up on Ravelry., 16. Favorite Color #fmsphotoaday I don't really have a favorite color but if I did, it might be pink!, 17. Busy #fmsphotoaday Molly is a busy, busy little girl., 18. Hello #fmsphotoaday oh hai!, 19. Button #fmsphotoaday Selecting buttons for Molly's re-do sweater., 20. On my mind...#fmsphotoaday, 21. Fire #fmsphotoaday This Liesl Cowl is on fire!, 22. Blur #fmsphotoaday Molly was a blur of energy at gymnastics today., 23. Time #fmsphotoaday Tonight was my monthly happy hour with my PEPS ladies. It was time for a beer., 24. Someone I saw today #fmsphotoaday I saw Miss Molly all day. She was full of vigor and toddlerness., 25. Life is ... Fun and Messy! #fmsphotoaday, 26. Childhood #fmsphotoaday is playing in the sand on the beach., 27. Earth #fmsphotoaday secret kitty!, 28. My Sunday #fmsphotoaday Ran 8 miles then came home to this adorable child who was full of adventure!, 29. What I wore #fmsphotoaday it was chilly today so I bundled up with my new Lucy sweatshirt, 30. Glasses #fmsphotoaday I need to wear my reading glasses more.31. Not available32. Not available33. Not available34. Not available35. Not available36. Not available

Favorite Salad Recipes

2013-05-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

The sun has arrived here in the Pacific Northwest in the last week and I have really started craving some salads!

I've been checking out all the food blogs for their salad suggestions and I'm addicted to the Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad from Gimme Some Oven.

I can't wait to make the Fig & Frico Prosciutto Salad with Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette from Iowa Girl Eats

And I'm also looking forward to trying this Strawberry, Avocado & Tofu Summer Salad from Daily Garnish. Though let's be honest, I'll probably sub chicken for the tofu.

What are some of your favorite summer salad recipes/tips? This salad hungry girl needs them!

Pinterest Thursday - Need Your Advice!

2013-05-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

With so many cool things on Pinterest, I'm having a hard time narrowing down which projects to do next and this means that I'm not actually doing any of the projects. I'm just pinning like a mad woman and making lots of plans in my head.

I've narrowed down my choices to the following and I'd like to hear which pins you think I should take on next! Let me know in the comments or on Twitter. Feel free to suggest your own pins!

The Wednesday Links from Around The Web 5.8.2013 Edition

2013-05-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

The Fiber Factor This is the coolest contest! If you aren't watching, start now!

50 Best Restaurants in 2013

High Speed Chase over a stolen iPhone

What it was like to photograph the Punk scene

Why LOL is actually a useful phrase

Quiet Moments

2013-05-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

The quiet moments are rare with a child but they are such a delight. These are a few of mine from the past few weeks with Molly.

Vancouver Half Marathon Race Recap

2013-05-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

After 4 months of training, it is all over. I'm thrilled for the race to be done and I'm so happy with how I did. This may have been my slowest half marathon but I had great mile times and felt really good on the course. I felt so cheerful the entire time.

I woke up at 4:45 am, full of nerves and anticipation. I got ready and headed down to the lobby to meet some friends at 5:50. I ended up meeting another runner and we both walked to the SkyTrain station together. It was her first half marathon and I next saw her at mile one when she zoomed past, yelling "Hello Rebecca!" I can get behind that enthusiasm!

I met my friend at the train station and off we went! I was nervous about taking the train out to Cambie and finding the start but there was nothing to worry about. Everyone else on the train was going to the exact same place. I guess the train isn't a busy place at 6 am on Sunday morning. We had a long walk from the station to the start but it was a good warm-up for the race.

Laurie and I spent some time trying to use the porta-potties along with the other 10,000 runners. At 6:55, we gave up and headed up to the start line.

The race officials had said there would be corrals for the start but we lucked out and there weren't. I was thrilled because Laurie and I were in different corrals and I really wanted to start with her. She's a lot faster so I knew that would be the last time I saw her but I wanted to at least have the thrill of crossing the start together.

The race start was delayed by about 10 minutes but we finally were off! I crossed the start at 7:25 am and flew down the course. The first few miles were downhill and my legs were enthusiastic about that. I had a few 13:16 miles which were faster than any of my training runs. It's amazing how you go faster in a crowd of 10,000 people than you do alone. The buzz of the crowd pushes you. I ran straight for the first mile and a half. I usually run for 5 min and walk for a minute but I saved that for later. I just felt like running and so I did.

Molly and Scott found me around mile 5. Molly giggled when she saw me. Scott snapped some goofy photos and they both cheered me on. Then I was off again! The course started out in Cambie and curled around to Chinatown and through Yaletown before heading into Stanley Park. The city streets were full of people cheering. They had the best signs. My favorite was "Go! Stranger Go!" and "Your Mom and I are so proud of you".

Vancouver is a beautiful city to run through and I love how you go from city to forest on the same course. Stanley Park was a welcome respite due to the heat. It was a hot day and I've been training in 45 degree weather. 65 feels super warm when you are not used to it and out running. The clear skies and sunshine was very welcome though because I've done races in the rain and those are miserable.

I finally used the port-potties around mile 10 and text Scot to let him know I was 3.1 miles away from the finish. By then, Scott had met up with some friends. One of them had run the race in sub 2:00! Our friend's kid is almost three and got to meet Molly at the finish. He is now smitten with Molly. She thought he was pretty darn awesome herself. So while the kids were having a lovefest, I was still ambling along. My miles were getting a little slower. I had a few 14:01 miles and then my longest of 16:12 at mile 11. Mike 11 was hard for me. I just wanted to be done and I was tired. My legs felt like lead and I got a little dizzy. I walked, snacked on my sports beans and drank more water. At the next water stop, I chugged some Gatorade. Then I felt better and started running again.

The chute at the finish was looooong. You could see the finish arch in the distance but it never felt like it was getting closer. The crowd along the chute was great! They cheered! Yelled out our names (our bibs had our names on them) and pushed us on. It was so appreciated at that point. The woman marathon finisher flew past me at the very end and I was impressed!

I couldn't find Scott and Molly at the end but I had gotten a text from them cheering for me so I watched that and then texted that I was heading to our meeting spot. I grabbed two bananas (I had been dreaming about them since mile 6) and a water and started walking. I got to our meeting spot but couldn't see them. I didn't trust myself to stop so I texted that I was going to the hotel and like a robot kept walking. Scott called me when I got to the hotel and they were at the finish so I headed back. It was on,y a few blocks and I think the walking helped. I met up with the group and they led me to food. Halfway through our meal, I realized I was supposed to text Laurie about lunch. Oops!

I texted Laurie and they were having lunch. She completed her race in 2:18 and I was so happy for her! What a great birthday present to herself!

All in all, I enjoyed myself and had a great time. I'm thrilled to be done with this race and don't really care that it took me a lot longer to finish than my friends. We all had a great time and we all covered 13.1 miles. My legs are still telling me about their adventure. I plan to rest them this week. Then I'm running a 5k on Mother's Day because it sounded like fun.

Race Stats:
3:18:30 Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
1:34:50 Halfway (6.5 miles)

Sunday Favorites

2013-05-05T06:06:00.000-07:00

Today is RACE DAY! While I'm out running 13.1 miles, enjoy a few of my favorite images from Flickr this week. And if you can, please send me some good running vibes!

1. please summer, 2. rob's hanging out with oli today so i'm stitching up some stars., 3. more star parts. i've got about 300 half square triangles ready to be sewn up., 4. Was supposed to go to yoga, but I was late, so I ended up at @onepennyblack & this amazing Danish just "fell" into my mouth!, 5. Sadly, this is actually organized chicken-scratch., 6. Light at the end Of, 7. Gathering ingredients to make spaghetti carbonara from @lucyknisley 's book Relish. I am loving this book., 8. BEST MAIL DAY: a scrumptious plummy infinity scarf handknit by @daphneadair! A million thanks to you, D! <3 a="">, 9. Untitled, 10. reid vs tub time, 11. Untitled, 12. Coifing., 13. Home., 14. Dumpling Party Day! Dumpling by Naomi., 15. Saturday morning coffee table. On today's agenda: finishing this sleeve! (And laundry.), 16. Train delays, 17. the Diva is done with her photoshoot, 18. Happy Day of The Donut on Flickr! #PicTapGo, 19. Ice Kitchen, 20. Chinese Chicken Salad taco topped with crispy chicken skin, 21. Coco chewed through the leash I got him last year and broke it. Today, my dad repaired it. It looks like new. And tomorrow the three of us will go on a roadtrip to the beach. See what I mean, @lcd_n? His awesomeness is legend., 22. Day 2275, 23. Today is ANZAC Day, and my fellow Kiwi @ladyeclaire and I baked Anzac biscuits to commemorate the day (and to feed to our workmates!) ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and Ne, 24. Untitled, 25. Untitled

Race Ready

2013-05-04T07:04:00.000-07:00

After 4 and half months of training, tomorrow is RACE DAY! My bag is packed.

My shuffle is charged. My heart rate monitor is ready to go.

My race belt is packed and stuffed full of Gu and Jelly Belly Sports Beans. My Nuun tablets are ready to go.

My breakfast is ready! I'll only eat one of these but I like to have a selection when I travel.

My shoes and socks are packed.

And my running outfit is ready to go. Now to get my nerves under control and do this race! Wish me luck tomorrow!

Avocado Green Smoothie

2013-05-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

I've been experimenting with smoothies in the search for non-dairy veggie goodness. I've thought about using coconut yogurt but I'm not really a fan of it. I've also thought about soy yogurt but that is even less desirable to me.

On my last long training run, I mentioned to my running partner that I wasn't sure how to replace the yogurt in my favorite smoothie recipe because I liked how creamy it made them. She suggested subbing in avocado. I asked on twitter and people chimed in saying avocado in a smoothie was delicious! My friend Amanda even sent me her favorite recipe. I was intrigued with this idea and so I made a smoothie with avocado this morning. Yum! Even Molly liked it.

Avocado Green Smoothie
makes 3 smoothies

Ingredients
1 avocado
1 cup frozen berries
1 frozen banana
1 cup almond milk
2 Tablespoons almond butter
4 cups spinach

Directions
1. Place all ingredients in the blender (or food processor if you discover that your blender has a leak!) and blend until you have reached the desired consistency.
2. Drink up and say Yum!

Pinterest Thursday - Chalkboard

2013-05-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for chalkboard paint and anything painted with chalkboard paint. I love this pin because it is easy, fun and includes chalkboard paint!

I didn't have any spare logs laying around (and really who does?) so I bought a cheap wooden frame thingy from JoAnn's. Next I spray painted the entire thing blue before taping out the center and painting that with chalkboard paint.

And that was it! The longest part of this project was literally waiting for the paint to dry. I spray painted the piece one day and then did the chalkboard paint the next day.

Now to just find the perfect place to hang my new masterpiece.

The Wednesday Links from Around The Web 5.1.2013 Edition

2013-05-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

Bricoleur Knits and my favorite place, The Nederlands

Big Sibling's Big Influence: Some Behaviors Run In The Family I think about the big sibling's influence a lot. Scott and I are both the older sibling and we hope that Molly will get to be a big sibling one day too. But where will that leave her younger sibling? Will they be "doomed" to follow in her footsteps? Better make them good footsteps then!

What it feels like to be bad at math I've always been bad at math and it has always bugged me. I want to get the problems easily. I want to be good at it.

I'm Gay, an NBA star comes out and I think this is AWESOME!

Do we need to stretch?

Sneak Preview at the Zoo

2013-04-30T16:56:00.001-07:00

The Zoo offered a sneak preview today of their brand new exhibit, the Bamboo Forest Reserve which features Sloth Bears and Asian small-clawed otters along with a fun play area for children. My Mom, Molly and I attended the sneak peak and had so much fun!

We arrived shortly before the 1:30 pm opening and stood in a very long line that lucky moved very quickly. Once inside, Molly snagged a sticker along with my Mom (everyone wanted stickers!). We made our way over to the Asian small-clawed otter exhibit where there was a huge crowd. We were able to get a great look at the elusive otters by patiently waiting for them. They darted out and then quickly darted back into their den. It's as if they didn't know they were the featured exhibit today. Or maybe they did know and just didn't want to be seen.

We next moved onto the Sloth Bear exhibit where we saw a very nice area but NO BEARS! They were being extremely sloth-like and hiding. Sneaky bears. We will just have to see them on another visit.

Molly and I checked out the new nature play area but it was really for older kids than Molly. It is a lot of fun but I think Molly felt overwhelmed. After checking out the play area, Molly and I got a photo with a GIANT OTTER. We almost had a re-enactment of Santa Claus but luckily we were able to avoid an incident and got a few fun photos.

We then took our time exploring the rest of the zoo and Molly conned my Mother into buying her a stuffed animal. She's getting quite good at the stuffed animal con.

Molly fell asleep on the way home and is now enjoying an epic nap. I think it was a very good outing! I can't wait to explore the new exhibit on calmer days and to see all the animals when they are finally in their new homes.

Sunny Days

2013-04-29T14:23:00.001-07:00

Last week, we had a few delightful days of SUN, SUN, SUN! Today the sun keeps peeking out and then hiding again so I've been entertaining myself with the photos I took of Molly at the beach last week.

We live about a mile from the beach so I try to go there often. Unfortunately we usually have to drive because between us and the beach is a formidable set of 317 stairs. The stroller does not handle that many stairs gracefully.

A few weeks ago when I was at Target, I spotted a cheap bucket and shovel set. I snatched it up and threw it in the car. I'm so glad I did because when I got to the beach, I realized that Molly needed some toys. Unfortunately though the shovel was quickly destroyed but I think we got our $1 of play out it. I ordered a new, sturdier shovel today. Hopefully it will last longer than an afternoon.

Everyone in Seattle was at the beach last week. It was a wonderful 70 degree day that deserved some beach time. There were volleyball games going on, tightrope walkers, doggies and a super nice couple that played catch with Molly. They tried to teach her how to toss a baseball and found her to be very entertaining. I was grateful for their kindness when they noticed Molly watching their game of catch and decided to include her in their fun. The sunshine really brings out the best in people.

Sunday Favorites

2013-04-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

Today is my last long run before the Vancouver Half Marathon. We do 7 miles today and I'm excited to get it done because that means in just 7 days, I'll be running my race.

Here are this week's favorites!

1. the Diva is done with her photoshoot, 2. Happy Day of The Donut on Flickr! #PicTapGo, 3. Ice Kitchen, 4. Chinese Chicken Salad taco topped with crispy chicken skin, 5. Coco chewed through the leash I got him last year and broke it. Today, my dad repaired it. It looks like new. And tomorrow the three of us will go on a roadtrip to the beach. See what I mean, @lcd_n? His awesomeness is legend., 6. Day 2275, 7. Today is ANZAC Day, and my fellow Kiwi @ladyeclaire and I baked Anzac biscuits to commemorate the day (and to feed to our workmates!) ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and Ne, 8. Untitled, 9. Untitled, 10. Organizing and Kitting, 11. Corinne's Thread: Craft Apron, 12. lots of browns and yellows, 13. July 2012, 14. Untitled, 15. fresh! new! fun!, 16. potholder swap 2013, 17. photo-1, 18. Is This "Love"?, 19. Bunny, 20. IMG_9898, 21. #peaness!, 22. indeed, 23. Spring craft trends!, 24. Boston Cream Pie, 25. week two hundred & three

Goals!

2013-04-27T07:28:00.004-07:00

I've been trekking away at my 8 in 2013 Goals and they are coming along swimmingly!

As a reminder, my goals are:

2 cross stitch patterns (Woodland Sampler and Wee Little Stitches Star Wars people)
2 quilts (One for Molly and finish up my Pinwheel Quilt)
2 knitted projects (a Year in Temperatures scarf and my Smitten Advent Calendar)
2 photography challenges (Fat Mum Slim's January Challenge and something else that I really need to decide on)

I have been busy working on my Woodland Sampler and my Week Little Stitches Star Wars people but have recently gotten distracted by my Springtime Sampler! I'm almost done with the Star Wars people and have decided to make a quilted pillow out of the cross stitch.

I have done nothing with my quilt goal. My basement is still in disarray which makes quilting difficult. I am however having a crafter-day with my friend today so I'm hoping to make some progress.

My knitted projects are going very well! I knit almost everyday on the Year in Temps scarf and am working on my Smitten Advent mittens in between other knitting obsessions.

I completed one of my photography challenges - Fat Mum Slim's January Challenge but have not yet decided what my other photo challenge will be. I have however kept up the Fat Mum Slim Photo Challenges. You can see them here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/reebeckisupergirl/collections/72157633352801240/

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Bites

2013-04-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

I have an unabashed love for macaroni and cheese, especially the kind that comes in a box. Yes, the kind with the powdered cheese and all. However as I've aged (not so gracefully), I've come to really love homemade macaroni and cheese. Molly also has a deep love for pasta and cheese, as do most toddlers so I decided it would be tasty to make some macaroni and cheese. However because I'm now a Mother, I felt that I needed to add some nutrition. One of the other Moms at the pool told me that she adds roasted butternut squash to her kids pasta. Delicious!

This recipe makes a fair amount so I decided to spread the love by making it into mini bites. I think this would be fantastic as a party food or just you know as lunch. The other great thing about this dish is how freezable it is. Make a big batch (double it if you'd like) and freeze for a rainy day. I love doing this because I honestly do not feel like cooking everyday but I always want homemade food. This way I get the best of both worlds as does Molly.

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Bites
Makes 24 mini bites

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
3 Tablespoons flour
2 cups warmed milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup monterey jack cheese
salt and pepper
pinch of freshly ground nutmeg
pinch of cayenne pepper
1 cup roasted butternut squash, mashed
2 cups uncooked macaroni

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni in boiling water for approx. 10 minutes or al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter in a thick bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Slowly whisk in the flour and cook until the roux is frothy and pale. This should take about a minute.
3. Slowly add the warmed milk to the roux and whisk until thickened, approximately 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the salt, pepper, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Stir until thick.
4. Whisk in the cheddar cheese and monterey jack cheese until melted. Slowly add the roasted butternut squash and stir until combined.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and combine.
6. Place a tablespoon or two of the macaroni mixture into each mini muffin tin.
7. Bake for 18 minutes at 400 F.
8. Cool in the muffin cups, remove and serve.

17 Months with Molly Pop

2013-04-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

You are a true kid now. My baby is no more. I now have a bonafide kid! And you are a busy, busy child.

This month has been full of fun activities, lots of swimming and stroller sitting while Momma runs. Soon I'll be done with my half marathon and your days of stroller sitting can lessen. You do love our Tuesday runs around Greenlake though so I plan to keep those up. You check out ALL THE DOGGIES and I get some good exercise in.

This month also brought your first ear infection. I took you to the doctor because you kept grabbing your ear and saying, "owie". Your canines have also been coming in all month! They finally broke through this week. Come on teeth! Come in!

Recently you started saying, NO! NO! NO! in response to our questions. We've been asking you silly questions just to stump you and it is hilarious even if all the NO's are not hilarious.

You started gymnastics this month and LOVE it! You were so tired after your first class that you collapsed in a little heap. This is a great way to burn off your energy! Today you were trying to find your hop and I think gymnastics is going to help you find it.

I also documented a Day in the Life of Molly Pop this month and I'll be doing this again. What a fun way to really know what a day in your life is like!

We've gone on a few hikes at Carkeek Park and Discovery Park. I hope that as the weather gets more sunny and less rainy that we'll be able to do lots of hikes. You love seeing the nature and I love the walking.

You also had your very first overnight away from Daddy and me. We missed you but did enjoy having the weekend alone. You spent the weekend with Grandma and Grandpa B. They were quite tuckered out from the experience but have agreed to take you again in August and October so we can attend some weddings. I suspect you are going to have so much fun on these overnights!

Your vocabulary is coming along. You are saying more and more words everyday and finally know the cat's names - Tato and B (Kato and Mel-B). You can usually tell me what you want to eat for lunch (usually cheese) and still love, love, love the water. I'm going to get you a life vest this summer so that we can go to the beach and be safe. You are so drawn to the water that I must enforce the wearing of a life jacket. We are also signed up for swimming at the outdoor pool in Magnolia all summer. That is going to be lots of fun!