Minnesota Running...

It has been hovering around 0 degrees for the last few days. In fact the current temperature is 7 degrees with a windchill of -13. Needless to say, it is hard to find motivation to run with weather like this. I hit the gym this weekend but I would prefer to run outside 10 to 1. So I decided to write my blog today about winter running essentials. Spending a little money now will make you more likely to get out when it is cold (because it won't feel so bad!).

1. Good running leggings. Make sure to get an insulated pair that will keep you warm. This pair is my favorite!

2. A reflective jacket. Running in winter means running in the dark for me since I leave for work in the dark and return as the sun is nearly set. After a few close calls with non-observant drivers, my boyfriend bought me this Asics one. It has a blinking light strip on the shoulder. Rather spendy but when you have a fabulous boyfriend, he doesn't mind. ;-)

3. Cell phone. Not only does it provide good music...but I have had a reoccurring dream that I am going to slip on a piece of ice and break my leg. No joke. So, in case of leg breaking or any other emergency, have a phone on hand!

4. Headband/Hat. I love my headband that I got from the Twin Cities 10K this year but pretty much any hat will do.

5. Running gloves. The cheap ones just don't cut it. They don't wick moisture or keep your hands warm enough. Sorry I have to link you to the men's version but it seems that Target has already sold out of mine for the year online. Check your local store!

Most of all...JUST DO IT. The worst part is just stepping out the front door, then it's all downhill from there.

Momma Louie's Granola

Granola with Greek yogurt is my absolute favorite breakfast. Quick, easy, and full of protein. I sticks with me all morning and is low in fat. Cha-ching!
But...store bought granola can be super unhealthy (think of breaking up a candy bar and eating it for breakfast). I can tried several brands but many times the healthier the granola was, the more it tasted like crap! So my mom sent some of her homemade granola and I haven't eaten anything else since.

This recipe can be used a "base" in which you can add whatever you like after it comes out of the oven. Dried fruits, different nuts, or in my friend Mel's book: chocolate chips. The girl makes a great point, mini-chocolate chips would be fantastic but I am a true purest in the sense that I don't like anything but the plain stuff. It is truly delicious on it's own and a small handful is perfect to curb a sweet tooth!

The recipe is rather simple but I take no credit. This is Momma Louie all the way...

Granola
3 cup oats (old fashioned)
1 cup almonds (slivered or sliced)
1 cup sunflower seeds

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
1/4 vegetable oil (or sunflower oil)

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the first three ingredients.

In your blender (or Magic Bullet, as my mom prefers) combine the last three ingredients. Pulse a couple times to mix the liquid into a paste. Pour over dry ingredients and stir well! Spread your granola on the parchment paper and throw it in the oven.

Bake for 1 hour  & 15 minutes...making sure to stir the mixture every 15 minutes. After removing it from the oven, let it completely cool before breaking it up and pouring it into an airtight container for storage.

I use a 1/4 cup as my serving every morning. One tablespoon equals 1 WW Point Plus so enjoy in moderation and eat happy =)

Let's give this a go...

A few days ago, while in the middle of a run, the thought hit me to write about my transformation from the "Cupcake Girl" to half-marathon runner. I didn't change much about my life but overall I am much healthier now than I ever have been and feel the need to share these little hints with other people.
My goal is to share my exercise hints, healthy-eating recipes and encouragement with the world in the hope of inspiring one other person. One. That's it. Just one.
I'm not a personal trainer, dietitian or blogger extraordinaire...nor am I trying to be one. Trust me, I'll stick to teaching 15 year olds. Much easier ;-)

So, let's give this a go...