Soup-er Sunday

Cheesy, I know.  But it's fitting!!  After a very long absence, both figuratively and literally, I'm back to the blog and Sunday Supper.  It's time.  Sunday, Nov 14.  Only this month, it's going to be a little different than in the past.  Since I have been sick, and am still recovering from this dreadfully exhausting thing called mono, I don't know that I can handle the full day in the kitchen that Sunday Supper usually requires just quite yet.  (Hopefully by December I will be 100%!!)  November Sunday Supper is going to be a soup extravaganza ... Soup-er Sunday!  And all of you will be bringing the soup!  Please bring your favorite soup to share.  Since there will be several to sample, no need for a large pot, enough to serve 4-6 will be more than enough!  I'll provide cheese and crackers, veggies and dip, cornbread, anything else I think of that goes with soup, and dessert.

If you will be attending, please let me know what soup you're bringing so I can do a bit of planning.  Thanks!

where has the time gone?!

To my faithful readers - yes, I am still alive.  Buried in work and training, but still alive.  2 more days until September 15 & the return to restful nights.  I found out this past Saturday that running many miles (18.22 according to my trusty Garmin) and working past midnight do not go hand in hand.  Awoke at 4 am to the sounds of the clubs on the next block spilling their late night drunken crowds into the streets only to find myself on the couch next to my computer instead of tucked cozily in my bed.  Awesome.

As soon as Wednesday comes and goes, I will properly update the blog.  Please stay tuned.

26 days 'til marathon Sunday!!!!

BLUEBERRIES

I was finally able to visit my blueberry bush today.  It was a long time coming, had been planned for at least 3 separate occasions prior to today in the past 2 weeks, and had to be rescheduled each time.  Work, sick dog, sick Angie, work.  As the season is nearing its end, it was really becoming do or die (or live without fresh blueberries from my very own *rented* blueberry bush)!  Approximately 4 1/2 hours in the car, roundtrip, and 1 hour of picking blueberries on a sporadically rainy Saturday, and I have 12 lbs of blueberries in my kitchen awaiting their fate.  Muffin, smoothie, freezer, cobbler, pie, glaze for salmon, or plain old eating straight out of the refrigerator.  Either way, I tell you, these are the BEST berries I have ever tasted!!  Joe's Blues, Moss Fennel Farms, Bangor MI.  YUM!!  Highly recommended if any of you ever find yourself in the market for a blueberry bush for a season or fresh berries shipped to you from Michigan.  Wonderful people, wonderful farming practices, wonderful berries.  Visit them!  Special thanks to the wonderful woman working there who took pity on my poor amateur-picking self and helped me pick berries in the rain.  I was the only visitor to the farm during the hour I was there today.  I'm guessing it was the rainy weather. But ... when you come all the way from Chicago, you absolutely tough it out and pick the berries you came for!

Pics of the farm, my blueberry bush and the absolutely delightfully delicious (& VERY good for you!!) blueberries!!

A picture worth a thousand words

Unbeknownst to me, a friend took this picture a few weekends ago on our sailing adventure.  I may be forever indebted to him.

I'm also very excited to announce that I, along with Mike's help and input, will be launching a second blog soon.  We haven't settled on a title yet, but it will be about his ironman training and this "little" adventure we chose to be on together.  Kona 2011.  Kona is the Ironman World Championship held in Kona, Hawaii each year.  He needs to qualify, I need to find a new bikini!  :)  Watch for the blog launch, we hope you'll join us for the journey.

Running behind

The past few weeks have been a bit hectic and I'm running behind on my "I Run" posts.  :)  This week will be a 2-for-1 deal.

If you have been following my blog, you know that I've been battling a foot injury the 4-6 weeks and haven't been able to run.  Not REAL running anyway.  I have been able to run on the anti-gravity treadmill at physical therapy.  Last week, I was cleared to begin gradually adding regular treadmill running back into my training.  This period of time has been difficult for me - mentally and emotionally.  It is extremely frustrating to not get my training runs in, to be forced to incorporate other types of training instead.  And then there is the mental challenge of staying positive during injury recovery when it seems to be taking so long, and battling the stress of knowing that time to marathon day is dwindling.  All of this brings to mind two of the reasons I run.

I run because I feel happier and better about life, in general, when running is a part of my life/routine.  I've noticed this more and more as I've gotten older.  Even if I'm only able to get in a few miles, I feel better.  This past Friday, I hopped onto the treadmill for my first regular treadmill run on this seemingly long recovery road.  I couldn't have been more excited.  Normally, I dread running on a treadmill.  But on this particular day, it was like a weight had finally been lifted from me.  Those around me even noticed the spring in my step.  Running is such a blessing in my life.

With my foot recovery going slower than I had hoped, I was not able to run the Chicago Rock 'n Roll half marathon this morning like I had planned.  My goal was to finish in an hour and 50 minutes in order to qualify for a start corral for the full marathon in October.  Within in the past week and a half, I had to come to accept that I wouldn't be able to run the half.  If it were the reason I was training, my ultimate goal, I would have run and I would have run fast enough to finish in the time I wanted.  BUT ... the half marathon isn't what I am training for, it was only a step along the way to the full marathon.  Sure, it would have felt REALLY good to run that fast since it is over 10 minutes faster than my previous half marathon time.  But, I have to be smart & think about the end goal rather than the instant gratification.  Those milestones can be met another day.  Right now, I have to focus on recovery and preparing for October 10.  Which, in a way, is a friendly reminder to count my blessings and not take them for granted.  I CAN RUN.  I am able to work through this injury; I will recover and complete the marathon. There are so many people who do not have the ability to do what I am doing.  I run because I can; I run for all those people who can not and with each new day that I lace up my shoes, I am thankful for this blessing in my life.

Sailing Lake Michigan

Last Saturday, the skies threatened rain as we waited to board our sailboat, but the storms went around us and the sun peeked out in time for us to enjoy the early stages of sunset as we sailed back toward the harbor.

Rather than learning to sail, as originally planned, Megan and I decided to charter a sailboat for our July Top 10 event.  It would be less time-consuming, less expensive, and less manual labor for us!  And possibly a bit more fun since it would allow us to invite a few friends and enjoy food and drinks as we sailed.  It was a fantastic afternoon "out to sea" filled with friends, music and laughter.  Not to mention breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline.  I highly recommend it!

I like big butts!

No, I'm not revealing something I look for in the opposite sex.  Rather, this is a quote from a random man (much older I would guess based on what Megan saw of him) who was sitting on the patio of a restaurant that Megan and I were leaving a few months ago.  Fairly upscale, trendy restaurant here in Chicago.  We had just dined there to celebrate the end of tax season for me, and as we were leaving, we had the pleasure of this outburst of .... approval???  I suppose if we were different girls, we might have been offended.  Instead, we looked at each other & Megan said "Did he just say 'I like big butts!'?"  "Yep."  We laughed.

Running does not leave me with a small backside.  It's more like a bubble butt.  Small chest?  Absolutely.  First thing to shrink when I start running a lot.  Small buns?  Nope.  More well-defined, tighter buns?  Yes. Small?  No.

But, you know, I'll take it.  Apparently guys like big butts.  :)

I run for the positive effects on my backside!  Haha!

blueberries

Last week, I got the crazy idea to rent a blueberry bush.  It seemed like a great summer adventure.  My blueberry bush is on a green farm in Michigan, Moss Funnel Farms, about 3 hours from Chicago, and as of last Thursday, it bears my name.  I'm so excited to go pick blueberries, I've been telling EVERYONE.  I talk about it daily.  No joke.  Thankfully, Megan, who co-owns the blueberry bush with me, shares my excitement.  She might be the only one who doesn't think I am crazy!  As of now, July 28 is the first day we will make a trip to the farm to visit our little blueberry bush and pick berries.  Blueberry picking outfits are definitely in order.  Mostly likely a floppy hat and something that I don't care if it is stained blue.  For some reason, I am picturing Megan and I covered in purplish-blue spots by the end of it.  Good thing the inside of my car is black!  There will be lots of laughs and plenty of pictures from the adventure, and we're already dreaming up all the things we can make with our blueberries.  Pie, cobbler, jam, muffins ... YUM!!  I'm preparing my kitchen for Blueberry Festival 2010.  It may call for covering the walls and floors in plastic.  We'll see how this year goes, we might be on to something ...  Either way, I have a hunch I'll be making a second trip in August!

As a sidenote, this will also be Megan's first trip to Michigan, an event worthy of documentation even without the blueberries! 

slowing metabolism

I think it's complete crap that metabolism slows as we age.  But, take my word for it, the claims are true.  In my 20's, I never had to worry much about how much I ate versus how much I got myself out the door and moving.  Then I hit 30.  And, boy oh boy, were my 30s ready to usher me right on in to a new world.  I'm fairly certain my metabolism ground to a virtual halt for a short period of time.  That is, until I noticed my pants were getting tighter and decided to take charge.  Not that I had been a coach potato before, but staying fit post-20s takes a more conscious and dedicated effort.  At least for me.  Interestingly, now that I'm in the routine, I actually feel better and look better than I did in my 20s.  Funny how these things work. I'll take 30-something any day.

I run because claims that metabolism slows after 30 are no joke!  And the satisfaction of looking better at almost 32 feels pretty darn good!

ladies who brunch

We've all heard of ladies who lunch.  And there are times when I really would like, someday, to be a lady who "lunches".   But, I really love brunch.  I'm pretty sure it's my favorite meal.  Probably because it usually happens on Saturday or Sunday, very leisurely, with friends, and of course a brunch cocktail or two.  A bit like Sunday Supper, it's more about the company - the conversation and laughter that tend to ensue - and the relaxing, stress-free nature of the event, than it is about the food.  Don't get me wrong, I don't like BAD brunch food, and I prefer a place with an above average bloody mary, but a restaurant would have to be really horrible before I would have an overall bad brunch.  So, instead of a lady who does lunch, I want to be a lady who does brunch.

If the past several weeks are any indication, I'll be pretty darn good at it!  Two weekends ago, Ali and Darcie were in town for Aly's pre-wedding girls weekend.  We enjoyed one of Aly and I's favorites, Harmony Grill, on Saturday morning.  You really can't go wrong with any item on the menu.  I say this despite only ever eating 3 different items.  Everything else looks equally amazing, but I just can't get past my favorites.  Maybe one of these days.  The real reason we love Harmony Grill, though, is the bloody mary.  Shocker, I know.  First of all, it's perfectly spicy.  Second, it comes with a skewer of salami, cheese, garlic stuffed olive, a pickle, and a stalk of celery.  Meal in a glass.  Excellent.  Finally, it's only $4.  For a pint glass.  This is no feeble bloody mary.  It's the real deal and one of my favorite bloody mary's in the city ... for the bargain basement price of $4.  Should you be so inclined, you can have 3 here for the price of 1 very average bloody mary at many other brunch spots in Chicago.  I recommend giving it a try.  Uh, not necessarily the 3 bloody mary part, I've never actually made it past 1.  

Back to my point ... Saturday - Harmony Grill.  Sunday - quite possibly my favorite brunch.  Bacon, egg and cheese on english muffin from my very own kitchen.  This all started back when Jill and Andrew lived in Chicago.  Every so often on Sunday mornings, we would convene in my kitchen for the king of all brunches.  Andrew would make a batch of his famous guacamole.  I would fry up some bacon and then fry the eggs in the bacon grease.  If you aren't already aware, this is the ONLY way to fry eggs.  Ok, obviously there are other ways, but those eggs aren't really worth eating.  Being from the South, Andrew was impressed & I am pretty sure, for this reason alone, this immediately became his favorite brunch as well.  Bacon and eggs done, toast the english muffin, add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack or whatever cheese makes your mouth happy, top with guac and maybe a touch of sriracha.  Perfection.

July 4th weekend brunch fell on Monday morning since it was a holiday.  Another fabulous brunch.  This time it was Orange, which is an old favorite that I haven't visited in many years.  An enjoyable reunion filled with food as yummy as I remember it, orange-flavored coffee, and many laughs with friends - Mike, Holly, and Sam.  A delightful way to start what became a wonderful Monday spent doing nothing special with someone very special.

Finally, just yesterday, I met Megan for brunch at Sola.  Thanks to a 1/2 mile swim, I was ravenous by the time our food arrived.  As usual, my eyes were bigger than my stomach, and I was feeling full after eating about one-quarter of the food on my plate.  But the food was simply too good and I managed to eat just over half of my plate, and for the second time in less than 16 hours, I was leaving a restaurant feeling like my stomach might pop.  (Thank you, HB - Home Bistro, for an amazing dinner on Saturday night!  The blackberry bread pudding certainly pushed me over the edge, but it was absolutely worth it, and I will do it again next time!)  Another fantastic Sunday brunch.  Good food and even better company.

So, there you have three weekends worth of evidence.  I think being a "lady who brunches" will suit me just fine.  :)

July Sunday Supper - July 25

I am struggling with accepting that July 4th has passed, so I'm not going to dwell on it.  Instead, I'm choosing to focus on fun things coming up this month.  July Sunday Supper!  The BBQ feast that was June Sunday Supper will be difficult to follow, but I'll give it my best shot.  Since it's my birthday month, July will feature one of my personal favorites - Cuban food and mojitos!  Ideally, hot summer day goes something like this in my mind:  poolside lounge chair, umbrella, mojito.  I don't have a pool, a lounge chair, or an umbrella to sit under, but I can make a pretty amazing mojito.  We'll have to imagine the rest ... feel free to wear your bathing suit if it will help!  :)

stress relief

I have a stressful job.  Yes, I said it.  Put it right out there for one and all to read and know.  Of course, it's not really a secret.  And when I say it is stressful, I don't mean that it provides a healthy amount of stress.  But it does provide me another reason to get out and run.  I run to relieve stress, to release tension.  I run to start my day on the right foot, to give something to myself before I give to everyone else.  Or I run at the end of a long day when I need to let go of frustration (and sometimes even anger), to give back to myself, to restore balance.  I run because if I didn't I would probably resort to other means of dealing with stress that are more harmful to my body than helpful or healthy.  I run because I choose (most days anyway!) positive outlets that make me feel good about myself and about life.  I run to be good to me.

It's "Between the Ears"

I've been sidelined from running again and am back in physical therapy.  It's frustrating.  For several reasons.  Running felt good, and I was feeling really strong.  It felt easy & fun, I was running fast (for me anyway!); and I looked forward to that time each day, either alone or with friends.  It's also frustrating because I WANT to run this marathon.  It's frustrating, but here's the thing:  I know I will run it and I know I will run well.  Being a runner requires a certain mental toughness.  That doesn't mean run through ALL pain; it means be tough, be smart, and be strong.  Not just in running, but in all things you must do in order to make it to the starting line.

Many people say "oh you're injured (again), maybe you're not meant to run a marathon".  As a runner, I've never thought of it that way.  There is a reason for the injury and I need to work on it.  Most likely building strength in the little muscles non-runners never know that they use everyday.  But the injury also provides an OPPORTUNITY to build on that mental toughness.  This is a fork in the road:  one path is to let the injury get me down & then struggle to return from it; the other path is to increase cross training, work on muscle strength, and fight the inevitable mental battle.  I'm choosing the "other path" and it is not easy for me.  Riding a stationary bike for 90 minutes makes me want to cry.  I don't bike.  But for every single one of those 90 minutes last Saturday, I told myself "I can do this.  I need to do this.  This is where I want to be.  It will make me stronger."  I finished the 90 minutes, and even though I felt like I needed one of those donut things to sit on for the rest of the weekend, I got back on the bike last night for another 45 minutes.  I didn't even mind it so much this time.  The next test comes tonight when I put on my swimming suit (and I'm not talking about the cutesy little bikini for heading to the beach!) and buoyancy belt and head to the pool for water running.  Later this week, I'll tackle something equally as dreadful to me as riding a stationary bike - swimming laps.  Funny thing is, by the time I get to the starting line of the marathon, I will probably enjoy biking and swimming!  Or at least have a solid appreciation for it.

I run because it forces me to call on my mental toughness; it builds on that mental toughness and makes me stronger.  That is amazingly powerful.  It reminds me again and again of the power of the mind and all that I can accomplish IF I CHOOSE IT.  Everyday in life we are faced with challenges that require mental toughness over all else.  Running prepares me for those challenges.

One of the inspirational people in my running world sent me a message last week that reminded me that most of it is "between the ears".  She's right.  And when the time comes, I'm going to win that mental battle!

BBQ Tasting

Summer isn't really summer without a good BBQ.  And when you're from Kansas, good BBQ is not something to be taken lightly.  Good BBQ is serious business.  I don't think I'm going out on a limb when I say that there was serious business going on last weekend for Sunday Supper.  After choosing recipes for the 3 types/styles of BBQ that I was going to serve and making arrangements to have Reid and Aly smoke two of the hunks of meat on their grill, I made my list and hit the grocery store.  I returned home with about 13 pounds of meat - more pounds of meat than people expected to attend! - and ingredients for the different rubs and sauces to match.  The menu:  Kansas City style beef brisket, Texas style beef brisket, and North Carolina style pulled pork.

The fun in the kitchen began on Saturday night.  Whipped up 2 different dry rubs (one for KC, one for Carolina) and a mustard-based rub for the KC style brisket, and then coated the pork in dry rub to refrigerate overnight.  Morning came early on Sunday.  5 am wake-up call.  Yikes!  I did mention that this was serious business!  Started making the BBQ sauce for the KC brisket, put both the dry rub and mustard rub on the KC brisket and returned it to the refrigerator to marinade, and then made the sauce for the Carolina pulled pork.  Since the Texas style beef brisket was going in the dutch oven instead of being smoked on the grill, it was definitely the easiest prep.  Coat meat in dry rub, place in dutch oven, whisk liquid ingredients together, pour over meat, place lid on pot & put into oven.  Easy as pie.  Next, bagged up all of the "supplies" for the KC brisket and Carolina pork and headed over to Reid and Aly's to give them instructions for the approx 6 hours of smoking which they had so kindly agreed to do for me.

I must say, the super long "serious" business day was worth it.  The BBQ was AMAZING!!  It's definitely going to be an annual event.  In fact, there has already been talk of renting a smoker next year!!  Maybe we'll go big and get a whole pig!  Nothing says BBQ better than a good old fashioned pig roast!  Until then .....

I run to support my foot doc!

It has been just over 2 months since my last visit to see my foot doc.  Apparently I have missed him.  Or my feet have missed him anyway.  I broke down and called today and scheduled an appointment for tomorrow.  Honestly, it's more of a love-hate relationship.  I really do like him, he's great.  But I hate that seeing him means there is something not right with my foot/feet.  Something that could require me to alter my training or prevent me from running for a period of time.  Not good.

Fortunately, as I mentioned, he is a great doc and I know he will take good care of me.  He'll have me running pain-free again as quickly as possible.  It's happened before and will probably happen again.  Add a knowledgeable strength and running coach to the picture and I'll be running fast and injury-free in no time.  Within 6 weeks of coming off my last injury, I had dropped 2 minutes off of my 5k time.  So you see, I am in good hands!

At times like this, I figure I must continue running as a favor to my foot doctor.  I'm keeping him in business!

Sundays

I love Sundays.  If you are reading this, you already know that, but I like saying it.  I love Sundays.  And so, it should come as no surprise that my new favorite book is Sundays are For Lovers.  It's more of a collection, really.  It is everything I feel about Sunday but have not put into such perfectly simple and beautiful words.  I'm not confident that I possess the ability or talent, though I might be inspired to try one of these days.  In the meantime, sitting on my balcony with a glass of wine and sharing this book with a special someone is part of my perfect Sunday.

Run for Fun

I'm a little behind on getting this post up.  Last Saturday, I spent most of my day sitting in a minivan with 4 other runners.  We'd been there since Thursday night, with the exception of a short stop at a hotel that night to catch some pre-race sleep, and then a few nap breaks during the day and night on Friday/Saturday.  This was the MC200.  2 vans, 11 runners, several cases of water, a case of gatorade, clif bars, trail mix, bananas, peanut butter and pretzels.  A few pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, and overnight bags full of running gear.  By the end of day 2, approximately 33 hours after starting the race and 1 rain delay later, our van was full of tired, sweaty, but still smiling and laughing people.  Only runners would do something this crazy and call it fun.  Despite the exhaustion, that's exactly what it was -- FUN!  And it is exactly why I run.

I run for fun.  Whether by myself or with a team, running is fun.  And it's even more fun when your times keep getting faster!  ;)

Here are a few pics from the MC 200.  I can't wait until next year!

new challenge

Life is about challenge.  The challenge of trying something new, getting out of your comfort zone, pushing yourself to new heights,  weathering the storm, facing fears, telling yourself "I can", and being open to the adventure.  I find all of these in running.

Training for my first full marathon is challenging - physically, mentally and emotionally.  I want the challenge.  Sometimes I crave it, I need it.  Because with each challenge that I face and work through, I am reminded of my strength and I am confident that I can do anything I choose.  Not just in running, but in life.

This week, I will set out on a new challenge.  I'm participating in the MC 200 relay.  The Madison-Chicago 200 is a team relay and one of the longest running events of its kind in the US.  The race supports Special Olympics of Wisconsin and Illinois and The Avon Foundation's "Need for Speed Against Domestic Violence".  Our 11-person team will start running at 8:00 am Friday morning in Madison, WI and make our way through 200 miles back to Chicago.  It will take us approximately 32 hours.  (We'll have a lot of quality time in a van!)  I will run 3 separate legs - 6.97, 7.65, and 6.50 miles - within a 24-hour period.  Preparing for this type of event feels like a different ballgame.  And I imagine the challenge of getting out of the van at approximately 5:00 am on Saturday morning to run my last leg after already running 14.5 miles and spending 21 hours in a van will be a tough one.  I also know I will welcome it.  I'm looking forward to the experience - the scenic course, the fun and laughter, the friendships that will be forged in our 2 vans over those 30+ hours, and of course, the challenge.  (I'll post pictures next week)

I run for the challenge.

inspired by

I'm often asked what inspires me when I cook, how do I come up with the ideas, recipes and meals that come from my kitchen.  Honestly, there is no secret and no real method to the madness.

First and foremost, I cook what I like, what sounds good to me.  Yes, that's right, my cooking is SELFISH.  If I don't like it, then I must really like you if I make it for you.  (I suppose I could also be swayed by cash!)  What I like, however, always seems to be evolving and changing.  Certainly some things are constant, but I feel it's safe to say my horizons continue to expand, my taste buds change, some things grow on me and others lose their appeal.  I have been fortunate enough to travel a lot in the past 5-7 years.  I've learned to enjoy many international cuisines and the spices that differentiate them.  Thai, Indian, Greek, French, Italian, South African, Argentinian.  I'm sure there are more.  The point is, once I started trying new things, I couldn't stop.  There is a whole world of amazingly delicious, fresh, flavorful and healthy food out there!  Make no mistake, there are a whole slew of extremely decadent & insanely fattening foods that I have loved just as much.  Fortunately for my waist line, my stomach doesn't usually share that love, so I don't eat them often and when I do, I savor each of my relatively few bites.

I read a lot of food magazines, books, cookbooks, websites and blogs.  My favorite food book right now is 'A Homemade Life: Stories and Recipes from My Kitchen Table' by Molly Wizenberg.  She also writes a blog, Orangette, which you can find a link to in the 'Blogs I Follow' section of my blog page.  She doesn't know me, but I think we would be great friends.  She has an incredible talent for writing about food and sharing the stories from her life that have made those particular foods/recipes memorable.  It's so real, I love it.

Often times, I have a craving and I search for a recipe to satisfy it.  Maybe there is one main ingredient in my mind, but it's just as likely that I have thought of a few things that sound yummy.  On a recent occasion, I was thinking of basil, goat cheese and strawberries.  So I googled those three words, read a few recipes, found one that I kind of liked and went to Whole Foods.  This particular recipe called for spreading a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese with chopped basil onto grilled flatbread before topping with strawberries and drizzling with balsamic vinegar that had been reduced to a syrup.  Sounds good, except grilled flatbread didn't excite me.  I wanted something with a hint of sweetness.  But only a hint.  I wandered the aisles looking for something that would do the trick.  After a good bit of time, I had nearly given up and was going to settle for the flatbread.  Until I was walking down the frozen food aisle on my way to checkout and spotted them.  Mini toaster waffles.  Yes, yes, YES!  Perfect.  Easy, bite size, sturdy enough to hold the toppings and just a hint of sweetness.  And, you know what, people loved them!

During my 10 years in Chicago and New York, I have eaten at hundreds of restaurants.  In fact, when I first moved to New York, I took a card from every restaurant I ate at that had them.  In case I gained significant pounds from my culinary adventures, I wanted something tangible to look at as proof of what had happened!  Luckily, if you can call it that, I also worked long enough hours on many days with no time for eating that somehow it balanced out.  Either way, there have been some out of this world meals along the way, and others that were relatively ho hum.  The foodie in me was awakened, and I began picking up on the "little things" that took a dish from ordinary to extraordinary.  I began to learn new flavors, to appreciate new combinations of ingredients, and to store these little nuggets of information away in the back of my mind.

My last great source of experience and inspiration is the oldest one, and although it may not be the most apparent, it arguably has the most influence.  Home-cooked meals - most often from my mother's hands, occasionally one of my grandmothers, and every once in a great while my father - every night at the family dinner table for the first 18 years of my life.  To this day, I still love going home to my Mom's kitchen and cooking.  And if it's summer, the first thing I want when I go home is for Dad to grill - probably a steak, sometimes a hamburger.  My grandma still makes the best homemade noodles.  When my grandpa was alive, he caught the best fish and the best fruits and vegetables I've eaten came from his garden.  Grandma B's cinnamon rolls were something you dreamed of and begged her to make when she came to visit.  I could go on.

I have fond memories of many foods, many places and the special people who have made me who I am in life and in my kitchen.  I wish for everyone to be so blessed, and I hope that one day, my kitchen can be a source of great memories for my family and friends, maybe even my own children.

city cowgirls and boy

If there was any doubt that I had fun, awesome friends, last night would have wiped it clean.  When Megan and I put line dancing on the Top 10 of 2010, I don't think we had any idea that we were going to get so into character -- cowboy boots, check; cowboy hat, check!  Or that we'd have friends whose boots were ready for a night out!

Megan and I started the night with a trip to Smoque BBQ where we proceeded to consume more brisket, pulled pork and ribs than advisable for two girls.  But, we did it in the most lady-like fashion possible, only briefly considering the bib style "tuck your napkin in your top" option, & thankfully, neither of us got BBQ sauce on our dress!  If you're in Chicago, love BBQ and have never been to Smoque, I highly recommend it.  Be prepared to wait in line.

Bellies sufficiently stuffed, it was time to get those boots scootin'!   Unfortunately, there was a line to get in at Houndstooth and Angie doesn't wait in line.  Alright, clarification - I will absolutely wait in line for food if I think it's worth it (ie - Smoque BBQ); I will almost never wait in line to get into a bar because experience tells me it is usually the opposite of 'worth it'.  Plan B - Carol's Pub.  Megan, Christy, Erica and I walked into "World Famous Karaoke" and pushed the number of people in the bar to just over 20 including the bartenders, waitress and karaoke dj.  Wow.  After a few rounds of video photo hunt, the bar started to fill up a little, Mike arrived and saved us from a leering man, entertained us and got the crowd going with his performance of Sweet Child o' Mine, and we managed a few steps of line dancing back in our corner of the bar.  All in all, fun night filled with lots of laughter.

Not quite what we had envisioned, but it will count for now.  We received a tip that Honky Tonk BBQ has a live band and people get up and dance during dinner.  It's on the "summer fun" list.  I think my cowboy boots and hat need another outing or two anyway!  And last I heard, Mike was on the hunt for a big belt buckle.  Thanks to Christy, Erica and Mike for being fabulous friends ready for a good time!  To be continued ....

favorite people

As I sat here at my computer trying to choose this week's reason from my "I run" list, I reflected on the day and my choice was easy.  Granted, on this amazingly gorgeous Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, many reasons come to mind.  It was a perfect morning for a run and there wasn't a single minute of my 10 miles with my own personal coach riding alongside me (there were only 2 of us who showed up for the training run this morning) that I wasn't thankful to be running.  But I chose this week's reason for the fun-filled hours that followed this morning's run.  It is not entirely different from last week's reason, however last week's focus was camaraderie while out running and this week's focus is on the friendships that become part of life outside of running. 

To fully appreciate the magnitude, I have to go back several years.  When I trained for my second half marathon (2005), I met a remarkable woman who has since become many things to me - real estate agent, role model and dear friend.  Beth was in the same pace group as 2 of my friends and I, and over the course of those sometimes dreadful winter training runs, she became a friend.  I moved to New York that spring, but we kept in touch occasionally.  Beth increased her training and running took its place in her life.  Work and travel took over my life and running took a backseat.  As I began considering relocating back to Chicago, Beth was one of the first people I contacted.  I was thinking about buying a condo and I knew she would be the perfect person to help me find my new home.  Even though I put my  buying plans on hold for a few years, she eventually did find me an amazing home that suits me perfectly.  But her contribution to my life doesn't end there.   I woke up one day in early January and decided it was time for running to take its place in my life again.  A few weeks later, Beth took me as a guest to a running class she had been going to as part of her training for the Boston Marathon.  We had planned to meet for a glass of wine that night, and I believe her exact words were - "Why don't you come to this core running class with me first.  The guy who leads the class is so enthusiastic, you'll love it".  What the heck, I gave it a try.  And Beth was right, I loved it.  Ok, in all honesty, I was so sore after that first class that I told myself I had 2 choices:  1) start going every week, or 2) never do that to myself again.  If you've read any of my previous blogs, you know I chose the former.  

Core Running led me to Chicago Fit ... which brings me back to today's reason that I run.  After this morning's run, one of the girls in the group hosted brunch at her home.  I'm not sure she planned for several of us to enjoy the better part of 5 hours eating, drinking, talking and laughing on her front lawn, but somehow that's how it turned out!  A beautiful day surrounded by great friends, all of whom I have met in the past 2-4 months, if not even more recently.  I could not have asked for a better day!

I run because some of my favorite people in life are those that I have met through running.  Beth continues to be a dear friend.  She has qualified for the Boston Marathon twice since we trained together all those years ago; I am proud of her and inspired by her, and I look forward to the day when I can run fast enough to train with her again!  As for Coach Mike, Beth was right, he is enthusiastic and full of energy, even at 6 am. He's also got some pretty sweet dance moves.  The rest of the gang - I can't list them all here, but I'm sure their names will find their way into the blog sooner or later - give me endless reasons to look forward to the several times a week workouts and make getting out of bed at 5 am everyday except Sunday less dreadful.  I love that they are already making their way into the memories that enrich my life.

simple joy

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to "cater" my first event when a friend hosted a fundraiser on his rooftop.  I put it in quotes because he says I catered the party, I say I helped him out by bringing a few dishes to go with the burgers, brats, etc that he was serving.  No matter what you call it, it was the first time I made more than a small amount of food for someone else's guests.  Feeding people is nothing new to me, but there is no real pressure in feeding your family and friends.  They will appreciate you for the effort even if the food isn't amazing.  Feeding someone else's guests is different.  You're putting yourself on the line.  The thought of a rooftop full of hungry people and bad food is a nightmare!  Thankfully, that wasn't the reality.  In reality, the food got several compliments, a few people asked for recipes, a few asked how/where I came up with my recipes, and at least one person asked why.

Why?  I love the question.  Subconsciously, it's something that has often rolled around in my mind.  But no one had ever asked the question, and I had not spent much time thinking about it on a conscious level.  Cooking and entertaining guests in my home was something that I enjoyed and I was content to let that be my "reason".  It's time to reveal the rest of the story.

I cook because I love food, I like trying new things and I like the challenge of making something at home that you would be "wow"-ed by even if it was served to you in a restaurant.  (As long as you can get past my imperfect plating skills!)  Equally as much, I appreciate the simplicity of a dish that requires few ingredients but can still impress your taste buds.  I like the creativity in throwing in a little of this or a little of that or taking a chance and altering a recipe just to see.  And I like learning to taste.  Not to just say "this is good", but to really TASTE.  To be able to identify what I am tasting and store those flavors and associations for when I may need to call on them when there is "something" missing from a dish.  There is such a simple joy in knowing and appreciating what I am eating.

I cook for other people because it gives me the opportunity to bring happiness, even if only short-lived, to others.  I was surprised (and delighted) by the reactions and compliments at the party a few weeks ago.  Considering the atmosphere in my home each month for Sunday Supper and the wonderful time my Mom, Grandma and aunts had when I hosted them in Chicago the past few years, maybe I shouldn't have been, but I was.  I'm not someone who likes being the center of attention and I'm not very comfortable receiving praise or recognition.  My greatest joy that night came from seeing all of the smiles, happy faces, clean plates and trips back to the table for more food.  Food makes people happy.  For me, there is simple joy in bringing happiness to people, and I am able to do that through something I find great joy in doing.  Isn't that what life is all about?

When the day comes that I am able to spend more time doing this thing that brings me such simple joy, I suppose I may have to thank my first "customer" with a hefty discount!  Thanks, Mike, for the opportunity and for asking the question.

June Sunday Supper - June 20

Yes, June 20th is Father's Day, but it got the most votes.  If you're not spending it with your Father, I'm sure he'd be glad to know you were enjoying great food with friends!

I have a feeling that June's Sunday Supper could become an annual event, so I'm going ahead and putting it out there -- 1st Annual BBQ Wars.  This year will feature BBQ brisket 3 ways - KC style, Carolina style and Texas style.  Bring your appetite and your favorite BBQ side.  Please let me know if you're attending so I will have enough BBQ.

common ground

There is something about heading out for a long run that puts you on instant common ground with other runners.  Sure, you are pounding the same pavement for minutes, possibly hours, on end, but it goes deeper.  There is a camaraderie amongst runners that lives in their heart and soul.  We all run for different reasons, but there is a mutual respect, an inherent support system, an instant friendship in being out there together.  I have been running with Chicago Fit, my marathon training team, for 6 weeks and with each week's long run, I get to know more people.  We start running and the judgements that often tend to cloud our lives drain into the pavement with the first few steps.  Everything else falls away, nothing else matters, we are all the same.  With each week, I add more friends.  I hear their stories and my life is enhanced.  Our support group grows.  I think of the bond of friendship that still exists with my cross country teammates from high school and I am no longer surprised by the new friendships filling my life.  I am grateful and appreciative of their simplicity and tenacity.  Every week, I am reminded that this camaraderie is one of the reasons that I run.  It is uplifting.  Nothing else matters, we are all the same.

what do fish, pork and fire in the hole have in common?

Sunday Supper!  Since I just got back from visiting friends (and making new friends!) in Texas, I figured I might as well bring a little of the cuisine and that cowgirl spirit to Chicago.

On the cuisine side, we had two types of tacos - fish and carnitas (pulled pork) - guacamole, and a black bean salad.  I am a big fan of fish tacos, but I must say, the pork was out of this world!  And, really, who doesn't love pork?!

Of course, no Tex Mex meal would be complete without homemade margaritas, a Corona or two, and a fire in the hole shot!  (see previous blog post for fire in the hole)  Look how excited these guests are to tip back their jalapeno!  Word to the wise - don't touch your lips to the jalapeno if you don't want that tingling sensation!

My "cowgirl spirit" shone through in my big, fancy belt buckle and cowboy boots!  Megan wore her new boots (thank you Texas!) too.  We might have discovered a few more proud owners of cowboy boots in the crowd.  Sneak peak into the future -- night out to involve line dancing and bull riding!  Yee-haw!

Thanks, friends, for another great Sunday Supper!

Little things

On my short walk to meet for today's long run, I was marveling at the beauty surrounding me and thinking back to all the times when running has allowed me to discover a new, deeper appreciation for all of the little things in life that we routinely take for granted.  It was a beautiful and sunny morning.  There is nothing like the peace and quiet of a city that is just beginning to come to life at 6:05 am on Saturday morning.  Suddenly, despite being in the middle of Chicago, I notice the little things that you might get anywhere -- birds chirping, the glare of the early morning sunshine, the slight chill that is wearing off as the sun rises, the smell of the trees and flowers in bloom.  It is often easy to forget these things when living amidst towering highrises, the constant hum of traffic, honking horns, blaring sirens.

I remember one particular Saturday morning run when I lived in New York City.  It was shortly after I had moved to the city and I was out for a short 3-4 mile run around 7 am.  I fell in love that day.  The side of the city I saw that morning -- quiet as could be, shop owners out hosing down the sidewalk in front of their shop, no cars in sight, smells of fresh flowers being set out at the bodegas -- was so quaint and charming, it was alluring in an entirely different way than the buzz of the city that bewitches so many.  The New York City that I miss is a NYC that I never would have discovered if it weren't for running.

Perfect thoughts as I set out on this week's journey.  I run because it allows me to discover a side to a city that I might miss otherwise; it re-awakens me to the little things, the amazing things, the beautiful things that are always here around us if we take pause to notice.  Running along the Chicago lakefront in the early morning hours of a beautiful sunny day never grows old.  A simply amazing & refreshing way to start a new day.

eating my way through Texas

Though I didn't write much about food while I was away, believe me when I say it certainly was not because I didn't eat much.  Holy cow.  We definitely erred more on the side of overindulging.  (Which could explain why I thought I might die at boot camp this morning!)  It was a week of eating and drinking like I have not had since .... well, possibly Argentina, but more likely back to South Africa.  6 months ago. I hope it's more than 6 months before I do this to myself again.  Don't get me wrong, it was all FABULOUS!!  Unfortunately, the detox is brutal once you hit the glorious 3-0.  You'd think I would have learned that in the past nearly 2 years.  Oh well, some things aren't worth remembering when there is so much great food to try in so little time!  :)

Dallas kicked off with champagne on the patio with Jill upon arrival.  I won't say exactly how much champagne, suffice it to say it wasn't only one glass.  Next up, a cute Italian spot (can't remember name), R&D Kitchen, Taco Diner, Nick & Sam's Grill, and Bolsa.  Then on to Austin for The Belmont, Muck n Dave's Texas BBQ (food trailer!), Hula Hut, Ranch 616, Hut's Hamburgers, Jeffrey's, and some other taco bar.  And I think I just gained another 5 pounds thinking about it all again.

I only have 2 pictures of the food.  I must have been preoccupied with other things.  Or a little fuzzy from the drinks that accompanied most of those meals.  But, hey, it was vacation - isn't that what it's all about?!

Here we have some mighty delicious Texas BBQ, straight from a food trailer.  And then fried oysters, two ways, at Jeffrey's.  Did I mention that they fry almost everything in Texas?

Trip was a blast, but glad to be home and back to my normal eating habits.  Wishing I had my very own scooter though!  (Thanks for taking me for a spin, Andrew!)

sisterly love

I come back to Kansas several times a year because even though Chicago is my home, Kansas will always be home in my heart.  My family is here, my foundation is here, cherished memories are here, and two precious little girls who can absolutely make my day and make me long for home all at the same time are here.  Spending time with them the past few days reminded me of the amazing bond of sisterly love.  Two perfect words to describe these pictures.

My two sisters and I aren't quite as adorable anymore so no pictures of the 3 of us this time.  But we are still known to all crawl into the same bed to talk when we're home together.  There's nothing else like it.  Love you girls!

Fire in the Hole!

Freshly-cored jalapeno filled with Tito's vodka, Paula's TX Orange and fresh lime juice with a Coronita chaser.  It's the official drink of Austin (last year, anyway), and we kicked off the night with one.  It was the beginning of the end, dancing ensued.  What a fun night in Austin!

Run to Remember

As I sit here at 8:45 am in running clothes, socks and shoes on the floor next to me, in my Austin hotel room, I am thankful for awesome friends who will get up early and run with me when I'm on "vacation".  Thanks JJ and Meggo!

When I decided to run the marathon this year, I wanted a reason bigger than me.  Despite the many charities affiliated with the Chicago Marathon, choosing my charity wasn't difficult.  I wanted a charity that had influenced my life so I chose to participate in National Hospice Foundation's Run to Remember.  I'm running in honor of my grandpa and to raise awareness of and support for hospice care.

Today marks the launch of my fundraising website.  To see my story, please visit the website and pass it along to your friends.  You can donate through my site or email me directly at akbezdek@me.com if you want to send a check.  Emails with your words of encouragement and support are also GREATLY appreciated!  If hospice care has touched your life, please share your story.  I would love to hear them & carry them along the way with me.

http://www.active.com/donate/runtoremember2010/ABezdek

Hello Austin!

Hit the trail again today, making the short (relative to my other days on the road this week!) drive from Dallas to Austin.  As I rolled into town, I looked down to the see the temperature gauge on my dash announcing a blazing hot 96 degrees.  Oh good heavens, what am I doing here?!  I think I started sweating at the mere thought of getting out of the car!

But, here I am .... and ya'll can't even tell anymore that I don't belong in Texas!  Look out Austin, it's girls weekend!

Bishop Arts Wine Walk

Free wine and discount shopping.  Yes, please.  Jill and her fabulous friends took me to the Bishop Arts District tonight for Wine Walk.  Boutique shopping, discounts and free drinks = girls night!  One shop was serving an apple-tini, which I would normally pass up, but since they matched my skirt, it was only appropriate for me to sample.  For the photo op.

Afterward, we went to Bolsa.  Great food, AWESOME drinks.  (Chicago friends - note I "borrowed" a drink menu so can make them for you!)  Many drinks with whiskey.  Yummy, yummy!

The Dallas girls have been great and welcomed me as one of their own.  Can't wait to visit again!  Off to meet Megan in Austin tomorrow - YAY!

rompin' around

Lesson learned:  Cinco de Mayo in Texas is a BIG deal.  No joke.  Jill and I had to arrive at the restaurant by 4 pm to get a table.  Being the trendy, classy ladies we are, we arrived in style.  You may not know it yet, but rompers are back in.  We romped it up, 70s style.  And then had a few margaritas.  Cheers!

guilty pleasure

Three letters.  B.L.T.  Bacon (surprise, surprise), lettuce, tomato.  On grilled texas toast, light on the mayo, it must be REAL mayo, and extra tomato.  I certainly won't claim that I have only one guilty pleasure - life is too short!! - but a well-made BLT is pretty darn high on the list.  The very best is with lettuce and tomato from grandpa's garden.

In a pinch, the BLT from Sonic drive-in will more than suffice.  First admission:  I ate one on Saturday on the drive from Chicago to Kansas.  (For those of you who don't know Sonic, I should tell you that they also have the best ice.  Yes, ice.  Call me weird, but I know several other midwesterners who stand behind me.)  Second admission:  my sister brought lunch home today and guess what?!  Sonic BLT.  YES!!  We hadn't talked about BLTs or my stop on Saturday.  When she asked if I wanted lunch, I said "sure, bring me whatever you are having".  Apparently some things run in the family.  :)

Two Sonic BLTs in three days ... good thing I brought my "traveling gym"!!

Run for love

By the time I finally arrived in Topeka today, I was having mixed feelings about lacing up my shoes.  After 10 hours in the car (driving from Chicago), I was ready to get moving, but 2 adorable nieces were waiting to see Aunt Angie!  Luckily, Addison was at the zoo and I was able to squeeze in a few quick minutes of bonding time with Caylee before she started to wail.  That was my cue to head out for this week's long run.  

For old times sake, I thought it might be nice to run around Lake Shawnee.  When we used to do this 6-miler in high school, it seemed soooooo far.  I have never run the whole thing since and was curious to see how it would feel.  It brought back many wonderful memories.  I don't know if it was the Kansas air or extra endorphins from that trip down memory lane, but I covered the distance in nearly the same amount of time it took me all those years ago.  Almost 1 minute per mile faster than my target long run pace.  Impressive!

This trip down memory lane wouldn't be complete without a hearty chuckle over what got me running in the first place.  I will never forget the day very early into our freshman year that my best friend approached me with this "great idea".  You see, she fancied this older boy.  He was on the cross country team.  She was going to join the team.  And she wanted me to do it too.  Being the best friend, I really had no choice.  I joined the cross country team and went to my first race 2 or 3 days later.  I had never run 2 miles prior to this race (ok, and I suppose I can't even say I did at this particular race since I had to walk a short amount); I only owned gym shoes at this point, "real" running shoes weren't purchased until the following week; and I wasn't quite sure I was all that fond of this sport.    Yet, over the course of that first season, I became a runner.  My relationship with running has lasted through the years; her relationship with the guy, on the other hand, was pretty short-lived.  She did, however, go on to marry a different guy from the team.  They are still happily married with two children.

It still makes me laugh, we must have been crazy!  Then again, maybe we had it right all along.  I'm certain I have a better chance of meeting the man of my dreams on a running path than in a bar.  Pretty good motivation to lace up those shoes!

Tex Mex May

Since I'll be spending a few days in Texas next week, I figured I would bring a little of that Tex Mex cuisine to Chicago after I return.  May Sunday Supper will be Sunday, May 16.  Food and margarita mix - homemade of course! - provided, BYOT (bring your own tequila) or beer.  See ya'll when I get back!

Brunch Wars & a Top 10 event

Today was about as perfect of a Sunday as a girl could imagine. I was out of bed before 7 am & out the door for a walk with Olive. Since I had no coffee in the house, we walked up to Peet's, the local coffeeshop, to enjoy a cup. This is where I admit that I LOVE sitting and enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee on Sunday mornings. Coffee tastes better on Sunday. I drink coffee daily, but Sunday should be different. Relaxed, maybe with a newspaper, but absolutely not rushed. This morning was even better. When Olive and I got to Peet's, we ran into a dear friend & began the day sipping coffee and catching up on the bench out front. Ok, fine, maybe I sound like I am 47 instead of 31, but really, there is nothing better than waking up on Sunday and enjoying the moment. Not hungover or groggy from a wild Saturday night.

On this fine Sunday, coffee was only the beginning. Megan and I went to Champagne Brunch at Bespoke, a group cooking "party" (or "brunch wars" depending on who you ask). There were approximately 20 people attending; you split into teams and prepare the dishes that will be enjoyed by all at the end. All the while, enjoying the BYOB of choice. As they pointed out before we got started, cooking is better with drinks. Who am I to argue?!

Megan and I chose the frittata station and had to chop a huge bowl of mushrooms. Such a large bowl that Meggo said she felt like this might be a little like prison.

Once we finished the mushrooms, we cracked many eggs into a bowl and whisked them, which we somehow turned into an event that dissolved us into fits of laughter. Maybe it was the champagne. Regardless, I highly suggest getting your hips into it the next time you are whisking.

Our station was also responsible for maple glazed bacon.  Heaven.  (Note this is bacon's second appearance in my blog.)  It wasn't a competition, there was no judging.  I'm pretty sure we all won when we got to sit down and eat!  The entire brunch was delish!  And I'm supremely envious of the women who run the company.

Capped off the day by icing my ankles with my "dream machine", a post-Boston marathon celebratory glass of wine with Beth, and a Top 10 event with Megan. Yep. April's Top 10 event - drink an expensive bottle of wine. We made a trip to the wine shop yesterday & picked up our chosen bottle. A 2006 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Lewis Cellars in Napa Valley. It was a monumental moment. The most money I've ever spent on a single bottle of wine. When we got back from brunch, we ceremoniously uncorked and decanted the wine. About 3 hours later, we raised our glasses and took the first delightful sip. Ohhh, it was good. Velvety smooth. Perfect ending to an "enjoy the moment" kind of Sunday!

eat fabulous food, then run

This week, I came up with my full list of 26 reasons that I run. Of course, I'm at liberty to alter the list at any point, but now the toughest part is choosing a reason for the week. When my alarm went off at 6 am this morning and the view out over Chicago was foggy with a potential drizzle, I immediately told myself "ok, Angie, you have 26 reasons, pick one and get out of bed". It may sound silly, but this is a powerful list!

So this morning I got up, put my running clothes on, and made the 5 minute walk to Core Fitness (running group meeting point) because I ate a yummy dinner out last night and then went ahead and had several delicious bites of carrot cake! This morning, it is time to BURN off a few of those calories!

I run because 2 1/2 years in NYC turned me into a foodie and I lost all desire to turn down an amazing dish because of its calorie content!

Probably not a surprise given that my initial reason for this blog is food! Savor each bite, then run!

tapas and sangria

I love tapas. It's a marvelous concept, small plates shared with the table. Dining with friends and getting to choose many dishes off the menu to try instead of only 1, LOVE IT! My favorite Spanish restaurant is Casa Mono in New York. It's not traditional tapas like you see at many of the typical tapas-style restaurants, but it is just what I imagine a small plates restaurant to be in Spain. It's small - the restaurant is small, the tables are small, the space between tables is small, you can see the kitchen and conversation rises all around you. Yes, it's small, but the ambience and the food are amazing. I would argue that they can take you from NY to Spain in an instant. I was fortunate enough to share each of my meals there with people who are very special to my life. There are times when good company can make the meal, and other times they simply add to the already delectable experience and make it even more memorable. It makes me sigh thinking about it.

The tapas style Sunday Supper in my home last night probably didn't transport anyone to a different country, but there were certainly plenty of tapas-style foods on hand to sample. I was a bit lazy this month on cooking and only made baked goat cheese with marinara. Not exactly difficult or requiring any culinary skill. We also had olives, spanish cheese, smoked trout spread, gazpacho, fried plantains, and cucumber-peach salsa. Can't forget the yummy kiwi sangria and cava sangria I whipped up at the last minute!

Thanks to all of my friends who stopped by to enjoy another Sunday Supper and brought so many yummy dishes to share!

I run ...

Yesterday was the official start of training for the Chicago marathon. I am both excited and nervous about the training. Excited because it's my first full marathon and because getting back into training over the past few months has made me really happy. Nervous because I'm already in physical therapy for ankle/calf injuries and now my knee has started bothering me again. Frustrating. Getting old (or older than 8 years ago when I trained for my first half marathon anyway!) is not fun; this is going to take a lot of time, effort, dedication. I might start logging the number of hours I spend doing things other than running -- ie. stretching and icing -- that will be necessary components of my "training" in order to cross the finish line. It won't be insignificant. Oh well. Most rewarding and satisfying things in life don't come without hard work and determination.

Of course, motivation can be a big help, and I know I will need a LOT of it during the next 26 weeks! I'm training with Chicago Fit and a recent weekly newsletter inspired me. Our coaches were asked to complete the sentence "I run ...." and their quotes/responses were shared in the newsletter. I started thinking about the many reasons I have chosen to run over the past 18 years. I'm actually a little alarmed that it has been 18 years. Freshman year of high school was a long time ago! Over those years, there have been long stretches when I didn't run at all; periods when I ran very leisurely, never running more than 5 miles at a time or entering a race; and periods where running/training was a main focus. Most aspects of my life today are very different than 18 years ago, and there aren't many things that were constant over those years. But I still run. Which is ironic because when I started, I didn't like it, and over the past 8-10 years, it as landed me in physical therapy every time I have decided to train for a race of longer distance than a 10k. So why DO I run?

Each week for the next 26 weeks of training, I'll post a reason. Some reasons will be simple and funny, and some will be introspective. Something to think about for the week and provide extra motivation when I need it during training runs (ummm .. or to get me up and out of bed at 5 am for a workout!). Join me for my journey & please add comments about why you run/workout/etc. I would love to hear from you!


I run ...

I run because I have never NOT felt better - physically, mentally, emotionally - after a run.

coloring eggs

Who doesn't have fond memories of coloring eggs as a kid for Easter?! A week ago today at about this time, Megan and I were discussing this very question. And decided that coloring eggs was an absolute MUST for the Easter brunch I was hosting on Sunday. Everyone colored an egg, except for Megan who colored somewhere in the neighborhood of 5!

Another wonderful Sunday, a buffet of great food, candy-filled eggs "hidden" throughout my home, some old friends, some new friends, and the grand opening of the patio to welcome Spring! (Even if Chicago weather hasn't fully welcomed it yet, at least Easter Sunday was a beautiful day)

As I cracked and ate hard boiled eggs all week, I kept wondering - is it safe to eat egg dye? In our attempt to have the most vibrantly colored eggs possible, we might have gone overboard. The insides were, at times, more than slightly colored. The impatience we have as children might not be such a bad thing when it comes to coloring eggs!

I hope everyone was as blessed as I and able to enjoy the holiday amongst family and friends. Happy Spring!

brush up on your flamenco ...

April Sunday Supper will feature Spanish Tapas. And a night of tapas would certainly not be complete without a pitcher or two of sangria! Sunday, April 18. Patio will be open for business, weather permitting. Stop by and help me celebrate my return to work-free weekends!

Kiss Me, I'm Irish

Maybe only a little bit Irish, but I'm pretty sure that's enough! In honor of St Patrick's Day, March Sunday Supper was all about the Irish. Corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, Irish cheese, Black and Tans, and shamrock cookies with, what else, GREEN icing!

And me in my green flashing lights Shamrock necklace. Christy wins top prize for best-dressed. She took the theme seriously. I LOVE a good sport!

Neither corned beef and cabbage, nor Irish soda bread have been a product of my kitchen in the past, so I was going to need some help. Thankfully, my dear friend Beth and her husband, Tom, have hosted a St Patrick's Day party at their house for years, and were once featured in Bon Appetit magazine! Beth kindly let me borrow the magazine and their recipes. I was in good hands!

After running the St Paddy's Day 5K (in a shocking 25 mins, 40 seconds!) on Sunday morning, I came home and got started on the bread. And I've gotta say, as much hype as I have heard about Irish soda bread, I thought it would be more difficult. Not too bad. I turned out 2 loaves in my purchased-for-the-event cast iron skillet (really I just needed an excuse to finally add it to my collection!) in just under 2 hours, including baking time. Beautiful. (I even received many compliments on the bread, including "you make the best bread!")

Next up, corned beef. My biggest "obstacle" of the day came when I realized that the nearly 5 lb corned beef wasn't going to fit neatly into any of the pots I had in my cabinet. Hmmmm. Seems when the recipe called for a "very large pot", that is exactly what they meant. Alrighty then, what's a girl with only a "kind of large pot" supposed to do?! I could pretend I came up with some really ingenious solution. But I'll be honest, I just crammed that corned beef in, covered with water and put the lid on! Based on the testimonials, it worked out just fine.

Cabbage, potatoes, carrots ... again, not a big enough pot to put them all into one, so I had to split into 2 separate pots. I swear, I am NOT one of those people who takes great pride in using EVERY pot/pan in the house, but this was starting to go down that path!

With food well under way, it was time to test out the drink situation. Megan arrived with a 6-pack of Harp and a 6-pack of Guinness for the black and tans. I was prepared with a very special, just for the occasion, purchase of Mr Turtle. The little guy who rests on the top of the pint glass and allows you to pour a perfect Guinness in the comfort of your own home. Maybe. First pour was no good. Second pour, still no good. I began to get a smidge upset. Mr Turtle was defective! He would have to be returned. Or ... could it possibly be our Guinness was "defective". Only one way to find out. Reid and Aly showed up with cans of Guinness. Test pour #27 (okay, maybe only 5) ... pour in Harp to approximately 2/5 full. Let sit to settle. Slowly pour Guinness FROM CAN over top of Mr Turtle to fill. BINGO. A perfect pour. Harp on the bottom, Guinness on top. Woo hoo!!! Definite cause for celebration!

Another wonderful Sunday in a home filled with love and laughter. I am so blessed! Tip your glass and dig in!

ps - In case you're wondering, no kiss. Luck o' the Irish wasn't with me that day! ;)


Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Belgian Beer Junket

March 13 was the chosen date for Megan and I to tackle our second "event" from the Top 10 of 2010. Several weeks prior, I had received a save the date for a Belgian Beer tasting dinner hosted by Perman Wines and X-Marx. (If you are interested in wine, visit Craig at Perman Wines. He is knowledgeable and unpretentious.) We were so eager to attend that before realizing it was only a SAVE THE DATE, I responded with a request for a reservation for 2. Oops! So we jumped the gun a little. Oh well! We wanted to make sure we got a seat, there were only 20 available!

The day before the dinner, we received an email with the address where the dinner would be held. Saturday night, catch cab (total nightmare given that it is the Saturday before St Patrick's Day & apparently the majority of Chicago is out drinking green beer), exchange nervous glances at the several turrets-style outbursts from the cab driver, and find way to designated address. Ring bell. Nothing. Hmmm. Ok. Ring again. Nothing. I don't think this is how this is supposed to go. We most certainly were not given instructions for a secret knock. Crap. Check address. Damn. The accountant wrote it down wrong. Yes, that would be me. So I transposed two numbers and we are standing at the wrong door. Thankfully, I messed up the last two digits, so we were just across the street and a few doors down. Haha!

Once past the rocky start, it was a fabulous evening! The food was absolutely amazing. See menu board in the pics for the menu. I ate every last bite. We started with a before dinner cocktail & an appetizer of fried pig ears. Yes, you read correctly. Fried pig ears. Just before Megan took her first bite, I tried to calm her apprehension (I swear my timing was unintentional!) with "don't worry, it's just fried skin". I thought she might spit it on me. Sorry, Meggo! Can't say I need to eat pigs ears again, but it didn't really taste like anything other than the spices that it was tossed in after frying. The six-course meal that followed was beyond words. See the pictures. And visit X-marx website for future events. I HIGHLY recommend attending one of their dinners; they have various themes. But ONLY if you are open-minded about food & not afraid of a little spice.

The beers that were paired with each course were yummy & 2 of them were inaugural pours in the U.S.!!!! HOW AWESOME!! All in all, wonderful evening, and interesting conversation. We were seated at the table with the husband and wife whose company imports the Belgian beers that were on the menu, and who were partly responsible for the creation of one of the beers that was making it's U.S. debut that night. Also with the editor of a Chicago foodie blog/website and long-term girlfriend of a very famous Chicago chef. Let me just put this out there -- as much of a foodie as I sometimes feel that I am, and as much as I know about Chicago restaurants, sitting at the table with these folks made me out to be a completely uninformed novice of a consumer. Way out of my league!

Enjoy the pics and broaden your horizons with an underground dinner. So much fun!


Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.