Cupcakes :)

A couple of weeks ago I was asked to make cupcakes for a co-worker/friend's work baby shower. It has honestly been so long since I made cupcakes, and I couldn't tell you the last time I made them from scratch. I decided to go all out and try to make some vanilla bean cupcakes - who doesn't love vanilla bean. After some solid  research, I came up with this recipe from The Busty Baker. They turned out amazing. Not too sweet which created a perfect balance for the ridiculously sweet butter cream frosting that I chose to use from the Food Network. Needless to say, I will be returning to The Busty Baker for more guidance on baking.

Chobani Yogurt Pancakes

A while back I posted a recipe to facebook that I used at my sister's recommendation for Chobani Yogurt Pancakes. There is a Perfect Pancake recipe on the Chobani website, but based on the comments (and what my sister told me) the recipe isn't quite right. At any rate, the vortex of facebook's timeline sucked up my post and I cannot find it. So I re-created my own recipe! It's not in it's greatest form yet, but I used what I had on hand. We can make this healthier - suggestions welcome!

1 c.Whole Wheat Flour
1 c. Milk
2 smashed bananas
1 egg
1 6oz Chobani Vanilla Yogurt
1 tbsp Chia Seed


Serve with some turkey bacon and a Cup of Joe...perfect weekend run fuel!

P.s. My niece LOVED these so it's a good all around recipe.

Nike+

I finally bought the Nike+ sensor for my training. I'm pretty stoked because I have been looking at buying one of these for a while now. Hopefully the device meets my needs and expectations!

I'm so glad that there are options for people that don't wear Nike shoes to run. I cannot wear them, they are far too narrow for my feet. I am a little bummed that I have to order the universal case online to attach the sensor to my non-Nike shoes. Oh well, all in good time!

Newton Running Shoes

A couple of weeks ago, my mom declared that she was buying me and my sister each a pair of Newton running shoes. I have to admit that before she had said this, I had no idea what the big deal was, or that they even existed. I have always been partial to Asics, but I was totally sold on the Newton shoes and theory after reviewing the website and hearing my mom get so enthusiastic and excited about the shoes. You'll notice the size of the mid-foot location on the shoe, rather than the large heel that most running shoes have. I noted the difference right away just having my Asics sitting next to a pair of Newton's.

This is week two with the shoes and this morning I had my first set back: my legs were too sore to run. Last week I ran two miles and three different days. Let me just say this: they aren't kidding when they say start out slow. It is incredible how little I was using my calf muscles before. I'll be switching between my Asics and Newtons from now on - at least until I build up my muscles...

My mom then shared this link, and this link with me. I'm a little disappointed in myself for not doing my research! There is so much I have to learn about running still. I love that.


P.s. I'm still sold on Newton shoes and theory!

Christmas Gifts

I have dedicated myself to making crocheted Christmas gifts (not starting today-a while back!). That would explain my lack of attention to this blog. Have no fear readers, I will return. I have much to report on!

Pictures of gifts to come...after Christmas of course!

The squares are together!

After sitting on the back of my couch for at least a month, the squares for my niece's blanket are finally together! At first, I couldn't figure out how to do it, so I was discouraged and left them sitting. But last night I sat down with my book, determined to master it. I know, putting them together is truly simple. I'm not afraid anymore!

I joined the square motifs with a slip stitch which requires the use of a crochet hook (as opposed to joining with stitching which requires the use of a crochet needle). By using the slip stitch it creates a firm ridge on one side of the blanket, as you can see in the photo.

Now, for the border and finishing touches... much less intimidating for me!)

Stitch 'n Bitch

The invitations are ready, I just need to deliver them!


Brenda's first...

"Stitch 'n Bitch"!

Date: October 23, 2011
Time: 2pm
Place: My house

I will report back on how it goes (and hopefully blog in between now and then!)