Long Time, No Post!

I intended to post much sooner than now, however school has kept me pretty busy! I have tried many new recipes, but alas, have missed several days in my challenge. No worries, I will still make 30 vegan recipes, it will just take me into October.  Of the recipes I have created this month, my favorite are the enchiladas with potato kale filling, shiitake udon with home made seitan, gumbo, and udon curry.  There have been several epic fails, including a phyllo pie with kasha (which I have discovered I don't much care for), and mistakes from two attempts at gourmet bean chili (the first one over-cooked & became dog food while the second one over soaked and became refried beans).  The third attempt at gourmet bean chilli succeeded, and the only reason it is considered gourmet, is because that is how the jar of free beans I received from my friends was labeled.  Nothing fancy about the chilli itself, I was just glad I finally made a decent batch! My almond cookies were ok - But only the batch I gave to my cousin were very soft. The rest were best dipped in tea or coffee due to the crunchiness. Also, the baked beans were alright, but a bit overpowering for more than a few bites at a time.  Best served as a side dish rather than an entree!

School is going well.  I have awesome teammates, but I do miss my last team. At least I get to see them and catch up at Friday seminar.  This semester is going by so fast - before I know it, December will be here and I'll be finished! I am learning so much. This program is very cool, and I am thankful I get to be a part of it.  I am excited for the day I receive a position and a classroom, because I am learning so much to implement!

I am still training for the Pirate Plunder on October 7th. I am running more than 2 miles at a time now. Although, I've been having sinus issues the last few weeks & the reduced air quality from all the wildfires around the valley certainly do not help my running! I'm also striving for daily yoga practice, even if my sessions consist of just 6 repetitions of sun salute. Hey, you need to start somewhere!

I will endeavor to post more regularly.  I appreciate all your support!

Barriers Breached!

Today I breached two barriers I've been working towards overcoming: I ran 2 miles and I weighed in at under 150lbs! I don't remember if I have ever run 2 miles straight, and the last time I weighed les than 150lbs was probably well over a year ago. Fortunately, my two goals of training for the Pirate Plunder and reducing my body fat ratio go hand in hand! I'm not overly concerned with what the scale says, however the 'healthy' weight for my 5'3 frame is closer to 130lbs according to the BMI, however dated. I look at it as a good indicator, but the true test of fitness for me is if I can keep up the exercise and healthy eating. Along those lines, two more days do my vegan cooking challenge have seen me toasting pitas and creating an udon curry, mostly from scratch. My dinners are delicious, fairly nutritious, and an adventure to prepare. Plus, my co-teachers are usually intrigued by what I unpack. Just wait until my 30 Days of Bentos challenge! Thanks again for all your love and support!

Back From Summer Break...

     In my last blog entry I announced my intention to bring balance back for my mind, body, and soul.   I committed to at least weekly entries on my blog, detailing my adventures and progress, and although I am remiss in my weekly entries, I have been making progress!  Although I took a short hiatus from training in Jui Jitsu, I am still preparing for the Pirate Plunder (4 mile obstacle course race in October) - today I ran for two 8 minute segments with a 5 minute walking break in between.  I am continuing to eat vegan, and have lost an average of 1lb per week! Additionally, I have decided to do a 30 Day Challenge each month.  This month: 30 Days of Vegan Cooking, where I will try a new recipe for each day this month - but more on that later.

     I visited Jamie in Colorado Springs in early August. It was the anniversary of his ordeal. He is still healing, and continues to improve.  Physically he is healed.  Mentally, spiritually, & emotionally, well those take more time and care for everyone. But he has tenacity, and he will accomplish his goals.  I will cheer him on every step of the way because I have absolute faith he will succeed. 

     The last bit of summer vacation was spent with my cousin Kristina, my sister Bridget, and friends at the Washington Midsummer Rennisiansce Faire, which was cathartic as I went last year right after learning of Jamie's injury. I am so grateful for my cousins' support as well as family friend Trek, Susie, another dear cousin, and her friend Mike who was a wounded warrior and helped me understand some of what Jamie would be going through. I am blessed to have so many people that love me.

I started school again, co-teaching 6th grade reading at Toppenish Middle School and I am really enjoying it! My core teacher graduated from my program last year and is amazing! Our principal is supportive and wonderful - I am looking forward to how much stronger of a teacher this experience will help me become.

Ok - so the 30 Day Vegan Recipe Challenge: so far I made my first ever lasagna (absolutely excellent) using recipes from my Veganomicon, including a cashew 'riccotta' and a marinara sauce; as well as a basmati rice & lentil dish. Yes, that's only 2 and today is September 3rd, but I'm counting the lasagna as two - it was a lot of work but SO worth it! Stay tuned, and thank-you for all your love and support!