Tuesday, October 29, 2013

November Challenge

I love Run, Eat, Repeat. She is sassy and tells it like it is. She is also a BIG fan of watermelon, which I totally support. Every year, she does the Pile on the Miles challenge and this year, I decided to join!

The jist: set a goal of miles or minutes to achieve for November and then commit to it.
As you can see, I have committed to 50 miles this month! I don't think this will be too hard of a challenge but there is an awesome vacation to see my friend and a holiday thrown in there that might give me a run (haha) for my miles.

To help aid in reaching my goal, I registered for a great 5k already called Run for the Hole! Yes it is doughnut related but more importantly, all registration fees go to the Providence Cancer Research Center. They helped my mom by providing free wigs and accessories while she was battling cancer and I know how much they have affected others lives as well.

Another little helper in reaching my goal is my FitBit. This little device tracks everything and while I haven't been connecting it to the website that tracks my progress, I will start (at least) writing down my mileage per day. It has been so great to see how active I am (or am not).

Now, I'm just hoping the weather holds out until Sunday!

Friday, October 25, 2013

Lone Fir Cemetery


The Lone Fir Cemetery is iconic in Portland. I have always wanted to take a wander through the beautiful grounds but never found the opportunity. While driving around on Tuesday, I took a shortcut and found myself right next to the park. The day was perfect; sunshine, beautiful leaves falling, and a mild weather.


From the Friends of Lone Fir Cemetery:

"Lone Fir Cemetery is the final resting place for many of Portland’s historic residents. Lone Fir is Portland’s oldest existing cemetery. For decades, it was the only cemetery. A true outdoor museum, Lone Fir reads like a history book on many levels, from pre-settlement days to the waves of pioneer settlement, industrial development, changing social structure, more waves of immigrants of all sorts, Masons, Woodsmen of the World."








Friday, October 18, 2013

Friday Favorites

I am feeling strong and blessed this week. I am ramping up in energy and confidence and trying to get things in order. Despite not having a job yet, I am looking forward to networking with professionals in my area and also focusing on my health. I guess it is kind of that broken record, or, in other words, the never ending struggle to do what is best for us rather than what is easiest.

Boy, that was a bit heavier than I imagined! So, let's move on to some fun stuff!

Friday Favorites! 
1. The finale of Project Runway. I won't dare say any spoilers but, oh yeah, I am so excited with how everything ended. The clothes were GORGEOUS and I was so impressed by all four of the designers. And next up, the Project Runway All-Stars!

2. The new show, Million Dollar Shoppers, which airs right after PR. Has anyone seen this show? It is ridiculous and very indulgent. Basically, rich people are too busy to shop for themselves so they hire these people to give them a bunch of options for events or special nights out. I would think the advantage of being so rich is to be able to buy anything you want...yourself! But that might just be my poor person mentality talking.


3. Anthem Ciders. I first tried the traditional apple cider and pear flavor at the Portland State University Farmer's Market and was instantly hooked. These aren't too sweet and have a nice, crisp flavor. While at Hopworks the other night, they had the cherry cider on the menu and I couldn't pass it up. The cherry had a bit more sour note but was still very light and refreshing. Bonus that they are located just an hour away in Salem, Oregon.

4. The Fall. My absolute favorite season and I feel like I am rediscovering Portland with all of the great events happening. There is a pumpkin patch and apple tasting happening this weekend and a Christmas-themed 5k already in the works. We also have the perfect weather right now; cold in the morning and absolutely perfect, light sweater weather in the afternoons.


5. This professor's response to a student's less than intelligent (we assume) question.

6. This list that will make ALL of us feel a bit more normal. I especially enjoyed #7, 10, 27, and 36.

7. Elle the Pit Bull Named 2013 Hero Dog! No doubt that I love pit bulls and feel that they always get a bad rap and things like this, examples in the community like Elle, really help shine a positive light on the entire breed.

8. Tina from Carrots 'n' Cake did a great example of a WOD (Crossfit talk for Workout of the Day) and for some reason it finally made me "get" what Crossfit was! It seemed like a very basic, non-intimidating workout and also like it could kick your ass. I might try doing some home WODs and then eventually go to a box. (Oh, here's a proper Crossfit Dictionary to explain all these things!)

9. Giving a little shout-out to one of my favorite blogs, Dishing Up the Dirt. This husband and wife farmer duo show the hard work it takes to maintain their farm and also show you delicious and simple recipes. What I love most about the recipes is that they are seasonal, fresh, and seem like anyone could make them. Beet Pesto Pizza with Goat Cheese? Chanterelle Mushroom and Kale Salad with Lime-Tahini Sauce? Oh yum.

10. I don't know if I am allowed to "favorite" this but I hit 700 followers on my Pinterest this week! It may seem like small beans but if you remember, my goal was 1,000 by the end of the year. I don't know if I'll reach that goal but it is the little things in life that you have to celebrate as well. w00t w00t!

What is one of your favorites today?

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

This Week in Life

  • I may be addicted to baking cookies.
  • Finally donated blood. I think this is one of the easiest ways you can give and potentially save a life. Go to the Red Cross website for more information and to make an appointment.
  • Signed up for an introductory session to The Green Microgym (It is so very Portland). The membership is reasonable, there are two locations, and it will get me back in the gym. My session is just to get an idea if I like the vibe but hoping for good things. I am also considering a community center fitness center that also offers group classes. 
  • I am thisclose to paying off all my credit card debt. The prospect of that actually happening blows my mind a bit.
  • I have been to LensCrafters four times in the last month and I have another visit coming. My glasses are wonky and they are either too loose or too tight. I know, I know; first world problems. 
  • I convinced my friend to buy three pairs of shoes this weekend. He is a handsome, professional male and only had one pair of appropriate shoes. I feel like this is somehow a victory although he gets the reward of looking awesome. 
  • I made the BEST chili. The fact that it was healthy and vegan only makes it better.  

Monday, October 7, 2013

Let's Tweet






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