Rest Day + Food Journal {3.29.18}

March 30, 2018 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

Hey friends!

This is going to be a food heavy post tonight! Today was an unscheduled rest day from running/working out. I have trained pretty hard since Sunday, and while my body feels strong and capable, mentally I needed a break.
Plus, a glass of wine sounded amazing! I don’t drink often at all… maybe a few times per month. And tonight I wanted to kick back with a nice glass (or 2!) of red wine.

Before I get into the wine, let’s start with breakfast, shall we?!

I ordered a soy + SF cinnamon dulce latte from Starbucks this morning. I normally order a black Americano but today I wanted something a bit different. Their SF cinnamon dulce syrup is on point when added with soy milk!

10 AM is when I typically eat breakfast. I have never been one to eat right when I awake. 10AM has always been the time I typically eat breakfast. Before I left for the office I scrambled egg whites with onion, spinach and red bell pepper and topped with cherry tomatoes. Once I get to work I place my container in the fridge and eat my eggs cold. I actually like them chilled!
On the side I toasted a few slices of sprouted bread and had half of an avocado.

Lunch was Pacific Foods butter nut squash (I love this one!), over some Jasmin rice and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper. I ate it with multi grain rice crisps and Lilly’s red pepper hummus. Super simple and very good!

I stopped by the grocery store after work to pick up some dinner things… like bread, smoked Gouda and wine! 😉 A little pre-dinner snack!

As I was walking around the wine aisle, I noticed these chicken sausages in the cold case nearby. It had been quite a while since I made them and they sounded delish!

More wine? Yes please!

Dinner was pretty simple but very good! Chicken sausage, steamed sweet potato, steamed asparagus and a little more bread. I added a little fresh ground Italian seasoning to my asparagus for an added pop of flavor.

I also picked up a pint of Ben and Jerry’s Americone Dream – my favorite flavor!!! Jordan’s too! So you bet I had some dessert tonight!

Rest day was a success! I feel nourished, happy and peaceful! Now it’s time to sleep!

Good night!

XxOo Tasha

breakfast · dinner · lunch · marathon training · running · Uncategorized

Grub + Training Plan!

March 29, 2018 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

Hi Friends! Happy Wednesday!

I did not forget about blogging! I am just trying to find my groove after months and months of not blogging 😉

Between working full time, taking care of little man, training/running/gym, and everyday life things, I am trying to see when I can actually sit down and whip out some posts!

I will say that if you want to see what I am eating on a more regular basis, head on over to my Instagram – this is my preferred platform for posting pictures and life happenings. I wish blogging was as easy as Instagram! HA!

Here are a few things that I have been grubbing on lately! And you may see a trend with these eats… CARBS! I am running more these days and trying to fuel myself with more healthy carbs.

Breakfast is my most favorite meal of the day! I seem to always take pictures of my breakfast 😉

3 egg whites with sauteed onion and red bell pepper, 2 slices of bread toasted and fresh cherry tomatoes.

Overnight oats with apple and peanut butter.
For the overnight oats I added 1/2 cup whole oats to one cup of unsweetened almond milk, a few table spoons of chia seeds, cinnamon and stevia. Place in fridge and I topped it with a chopped apple and a tablespoon of peanut butter in the morning before I left for work.

This may look or sound a bit unusual but it is one of my favorite combos!
I chop a few carrots, some stalks of celery, 3-4 medjool dates and add a dollop of nut butter. Easy and so delish! I typically add an apple but we were out so I added more carrots.

I had a mid-day dentist appointment so on my way back to the office I stopped at a local natural food store and picked up some quick treats. This made a great lunch! Multi-grain crackers, hummus, a chocolate Rebbl protein drink and a coconut macaroon bar.

This was one of my easy lunches – greek yogurt, stevia, granola, homemade oatmeal cookies and a few dates (I was going to eat these before an after work run but I ended up not being hungry)

And looking back at all of my food pictures, this was the only dinner picture I took! Dinner is a little hit and miss with me – usually I am snacking on a few things here or there or eating as I am cooking dinner for Jordan. I have gotten out of the habit of actually sitting down for a meal. I should probably get better at this! But for now this is how life is.
This bowl had a modge-podge of yummy things in it! Whole wheat pasta, chickpeas, leftover turkey burger patty, baby spinach, fresh parmesan, and a a mix of different herbs and spices. I remember being so RUNGRY (hungry after a run HA!) that as soon as I took this picture, this bowl of food was gone in minutes. And it was a BIG bowl!

And speaking of running, I have finally created a training plan for a marathon I am running in August!

My customized HalHigdon Novice1 marathon training plan!
To say I’m a little excited is an understatement. #nofear #allgood
The last time I was training for a marathon was over 5 years ago. I sustained a lower back injury that put me on bed rest for weeks. I was at a complete hault with no recovery time in sight. Once healed, I was so scared to run any distance over 4 miles that I completely took races out of my future.
Until this year.
The difference?
Weight lifting, conditioning, proper rest, a plan and patience.
And ENJOYMENT!
I have always enjoyed it, but I would be so critical of my time and how I felt during and after each run. Now I embrace my speed (or lack of), and embrace the flow of each run.
I am so excited for this year, this challenge and to see where my love of running will take me!

I am also encouraging Jordan to run with me on the weekends.

Here was his very first jog with me!

I will be updating my running here on the blog. But remember to head on over to my Instagram for more running and race updates!

Well, this is all for now! I am off to the gym to work on some speed running at the gym.

Goodnight!

XxOo
Tasha

breakfast · dinner · jordan · lunch · Uncategorized

The day after…

March 21, 2018November 7, 2020 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

Hi friends!

Just a quick post to show what I ate today! 🙂

I was pretty hungry this morning and my tummy was growling at me by 8:30. That is pretty early for me as I normally have my first meal around 10. But last night was leg night and I am ALWAYS more hungry the day after.

I generally stay away from meal / protein bars but I do have a small stash in my desk in case of emergencies. And I didn’t feel like eating my “real” breakfast so early in the day as I knew I was not going to be able to grab lunch until 2PM today.

So I enjoyed this Zone bar with my coffee this morning while checking emails.

Around 10:30 I enjoyed my actual breakfast that I brought to the office with me.

3 egg whites scrambled with a little coconut oil and spinach and fresh baby tomatoes. I make my eggs in the morning before work and then keep them in the fridge until I am ready to eat them. I actually prefer my eggs cold vs. hot!

I also had some oatmeal with chia seeds, cinnamon, stevia and natural peanut butter.

I was going to take my lunch at 2 after my meetings but I was pretty satisfied still from my two breakfasts; so I opted to stay at work and eat when I got home around 4:30. I will say by the time I got home I was pretty hungry and the ONLY thing that sounded good was a big salad!

This salad had a ton of chopped baby spinach, green cabbage, red onion, shredded carrots, a few kalamata olives, a sprinkle of fresh parm and ceasar dressing. I also had a side of flatbread crisps.

And to curb my sweet tooth, I had 3 dates.

Little man had a super-short, but super-cute recorder concert at his school – he had so much fun! And it was so fun to watch him and all his friends play instruments!

Tonight’s workout:

40 minutes speed-work on the treadmill + back/biceps

Question: What is your favorite “healthy” sweet treat? I love dates and dark chocolate!

breakfast · pancake

Protein Pancakes

March 30, 2016March 30, 2016 CleanEatingMama2 Comments

I will proudly admit that pancakes are one of my favorite breakfast foods! The warm pure maple syrup, the hot fluffy cakes… and the coffee! A stack of pancakes can really make a morning!

But I try to stay away from simple carbs, especially white flour. It can make me feel heavy and sleepy only a few short hours after I have eaten. This past weekend I tried to healthify my beloved pancakes by making protein pancakes. And while they are not EXACTLY like buttermilk pancakes, they are very tasty and really hit the spot!

Plus, they are a great way to get your much needed protein in first thing in the morning! If you are tired of eating oats with eggs, well here is the recipe you have dreaming of!

Protein Pancakes

Serves 2

4 egg whites OR 2 whole eggs
1 cup old fashioned oats (NOT quick oats or steel cut)
1 ripe banana
1 tsp pure vanilla
splash of almond milk, if needed (or any kind of milk)

In a blender, combine all of the ingredients except the milk. Blend for about 30 seconds or until the batter is smooth.

In a hot skillet, melt a dab of coconut oil (less than 1 tsp). Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the bubbles stop. Flip and cook the underside for about 2 minutes.

If needed, add milk to thin out if the batter becomes a little thick.

These pancakes will not rise like regular flour pancakes. But they will bubble. When the top of the pancakes did not look wet any more is when I flipped them over.

Top with berries, pure maple syrup or even your favorite nut butter! These pancakes are soft, moist and will keep you full for hours!

Enjoy!

XxOo Tasha

breakfast · kale · recipe · vegan

Greens for Breakfast

March 15, 2016March 15, 2016 CleanEatingMama1 Comment

Because some recipes need to be visited over and over.

As much as I love drinking my greens for breakfast, I happen to love waking up and sautéing onions, red bell peppers, garlic and kale for a change. Remember when you eat living food (plants) you will feel ALIVE!

1 teaspoon coconut oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
3 large stalks of kale, washed and ripped into bite size pieces (discard stalk)
salt and pepper to taste

In a medium skillet, heat oil on medium heat. Add onions, red bell pepper, garlic and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 4 minutes, or until onions have softened. Add washed kale and another pinch of salt and ground pepper. (I leave water on the leaves as this helps steam the kale and lets it become soft)
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and let cook for 5 minutes, or until kale has softened. Check often to make sure the onions are not burning – you can always add a few spoonful’s of water if more moisture is needed.
Serve with rustic toast, top with hot sauce and enjoy!

XxOo Tasha

breakfast · granola · recipe · vegan

Apple Pie Granola

November 9, 2015November 9, 2015 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

I am often asked how I create recipes.
Are you inspired from other recipes? Do you spend hours creating them? Do you go through a ton of trial and error?

Yes – I am often inspired from others. But what inspires me most are the smells of each season and what is readily available in my pantry!

No – I normally do not spend hours creating them. I am a realist, and I know I don’t have hours to be cooking in the kitchen, nor do my readers.

No – I tend to stay in my safe zone =) I HATE wasting food so I will make sure I know it will turn out great! And luckily most recipes do turn out!

My apple pie granola was inspired by my love for granola and all things apple/cinnamon! I was completely out of granola and saw a huge container of rolled oats in my pantry and thought I would throw a fresh batch in the oven! And the smell… HEAVEN!

Apple Pie Granola

3 cups old fashioned rolled oats
2 tablespoons cinnamon
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/4 cup flax seeds
1/3 cup chopped chopped almonds
1/2 cup finely chopped apple bits
a pinch of salt

Pre-heat oven to 350.

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until well combined.

Place on a large cooking sheet that is lined with parchment paper of a silicone mat.

Cook for approx 20 – 25 minutes – stirring every 5 minutes to help cook evenly.

Cool completely before placing in a large glass jar with a lid. Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.

XxOo Tasha

baking · breakfast · clean eating · cookie · dessert · vegan · vegetarian

Clean and Simple Breakfast Cookies

April 23, 2015April 23, 2015 CleanEatingMama1 Comment

What if I told you you can have cookies for breakfast? Awesome, right?! Well these cookies are nutritious, full of fiber and completely good for you! Waaaaay better for you than store bought cookies that are full of artificial ingredients, preservatives and GMO’s. Instead they are full of oats, bananas, nuts and seeds… and chocolate, if you would like.

And yes, I eat these cookies for breakfast. And snacks. And dessert. They are guilt free, animal product free, gluten free and 100% good for you!

Continue reading “Clean and Simple Breakfast Cookies” →

breakfast · recipe · smoothies

Simple Green Smoothie

November 20, 2014 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

With clean eating, simple is ALWAYS best!

This smoothie is simple and tasty, and perfect for breakfast! Full of protein, veggies and fruit, this is my go to smoothie for a busy work day or just relaxing on the weekend. And I always make extra for my son, too! He just loves them!

Enjoy!

Super Simple Green Smoothie
Serves 1

1 scoop of vanilla protein powder of your choice – I used Vega
1.5 cups of liquid – I used almond milk but you could use another kind of milk, water or coconut water
1 large handful of spinach or kale
1 teaspoon of nut butter
1/2 frozen banana
1/2 cup frozen mango

What is your favorite Go-To smoothie recipe?

breakfast · clean eating · dinner · lunch · workout

Clean Eats + At Home Workout

August 7, 2014 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

Hi friends!

Happy Wednesday! How was your day?

Oh man – do I have some goodies for you!

First – Let’s flex!

If you have been following me on my FB Page you have noticed that I am doing PiYo. And do I love it! PiYo is a mixture of pilates and yoga and was created by one of my favorite athlete, Chalene Johnson. PiYo is a a high-intensity, low-impact workout for a new kind of STRONG. Chalene Johnson took the very best Pilates and yoga-inspired moves and cranked up the speed to give you full throttle cardio, strength, and flexibility training—all at once. PiYo packs it ALL into each workout so you can build lean muscle mass—as you’re burning crazy calories.

And it works! I am getting more defined, stronger and leaner. It has done wonders! I do have a PiYo Challenge group for those that are wanting motivation and a community of supporters. Email me if you want to get started!

Tonight I did a great at home circuit thanks to Peanut Butter Fingers. It was pretty intense!

1 min jumping jacks
30 sec. jump rope
1 min alternating lunges
30 sec. jump rope
1 min mountain climbers
30 sec. jump rope
1 min squat
30 sec. jump rope
1 min. high knees
30 sec. jump rope
1 min pop squats
30 sec. jump rope
1 min burpees
30 sec. jump rope
1 min jumping jacks
30 sec. jump rope
1 min. mountain climbers
30 sec. jump rope
1 min counter top pushups
30 sec. jump rope
60 sec. plank
Do this circuit 2X!

I was a sweaty mess afterwards! It felt amazing!

EATS

Breakfast:

I had a LaraBar and some raw figs – figs are my favorite!

Lunch:

I am been craving my green smoothies! This one was super smooth and creamy. It was pretty amazing!

Vanilla protein powder, almond milk, a frozen banana, frozen mangos chunks and peanut butter. YUM!

I also ran to Trader Joes to pick up a few items that we were out of.

Baby spinach, frozen fruit and Vegetable Masala Burger – these are my absolute favorite!

Lara Bars, avocado, brown rice, coconut oil, beans and figs

Dark chocolate and organic Tempeh

Dinner:

This is my favorite dinner! Fresh cut veggies, almond butter, hummus and Mary’s Gone Crackers. I love fun dinners like these!

Did you workout today? I would love to hear about your accomplishments!

These are two of my favorite quotes that I live by every single day!

breakfast · clean eating · dinner · Food Journal · lunch

{Food Journal} 7.7.2014

July 8, 2014 CleanEatingMamaLeave a comment

Hi Friends! How was your Monday?

What a relaxing weekend! I hope each of you also had a wonderful weekend!

Yesterday I helped move all day – literally ALL DAY! – and I was SOOOO sore this morning! The best workout I have had EVER! I was sore in areas I didn’t think I could be sore in!

I was pretty tired still when I woke up… bring on the BLACK coffee!

MMMMmmmmm!

I made some overnight Chia Pudding last night and it was a perfect way to start my day!

I also added some dark chocolate chips to it… mornings are better with chocolate!

For lunch I had a sprouted tortilla with hummus and cut up carrots, apple and celery with natural peanut butter. I love these lunches! Simple yet completely satisfying!

Before dinner, I snacked on a Chobani yogurt with raw muesli.

Dinner was amazing! It was pretty warm in Seattle yesterday so all I was craving was a huge salad.

Arugula Chicken Salad
HUGE handful of arugula / baby spinach combo
dried cranberries
crumbled goat cheese
yellow onion
chopped chicken breast, chilled
dried basil flakes, salt and pepper
splash of EVOO

I also toaseted a few slices of sprouted bread and spread some Earth Balance on the toast.

It was such a perfect summer dinner! I ate outside on the deck with this handsome man…

I also changed my phone screens this past weekend. Do you find you get bored of the same screen? I have been loving pastels and pinks lately! I found both of these wallpapers on pinterest – pink chevron for my home screen and a pink anchor for my lock screen. CUUUUTE!!!