The top 11 in 2011

The end of a year brings much reflection. As I look back upon my year in always seem to find a theme. This past year was a year for travels and firsts. So in no particular order, her are the top 11 moments of the year 2011:

1. Getting the gift of perfect eyesight! Thank you PCLI and Vision One! Lasik eye surgery is life changing!

2. Taking the family to Pheonix AZ. We loved our time eating and shopping all around Pheonix. And nothing can replace the time we spent with my Brother Larry and his family.

3. Watching Ruby and Macy in their first Dance Recital! Ruby was amazing, confident, and polished. Macy ran off the stage crying. haha

4. Taking a Valentines trip to Seattle, one of my favorite cities!

5. Running Ragnar Las Vegas with my amazing, inspiring, and talented friends. While competing with Brian and my brother Larrys team!

6. Going on a cruise to the Bahamas with my sweetheart, then exploring Disneyworld and Universal Studios.

7. Partnering with the Doctors of Proactiv to expand the Boise market with their new anti aging market! The best investment I made all year!

8. Watching Ruby begin Kindergarten! She walked in and never looked back. I cried a little. Bittersweet. So proud of her, so sad to let her go.

9. Running Sawtooth Relay with a fantastic team, which my husband Brian was on with me!

10. Going on my first 12 mile, 25 mile, and 30 mile bike races. And I was absolutely how shocked at how well I did!

11. Gaining the confidence to live up to my potential. Thru the love of my family and surrounding myself with amazing friends.

This year treated us well. Very well. But I cant wait to see what 2012 brings! Happy New Year!

The Easy Bake Oven

This afternoon it was time to open up some more of the Christmas gifts. I know what you are thinking, its the day AFTER Christmas! The truth is, we got way, way, way, too much stuff for our kids this year! In fact, they have some unwrapped gifts that they dont even know about! Yes. Unwrapped, and still in the boxes, hidden under and behind all the other loot that is littering my home! It looks like a toy store threw up in my living room! So anyway, we were opening some of the unwrapped gifts today so we could play with them. One item in particular was causing all kinds of squealing and excitement.....The Easy Bake Oven!

Could it be hereditary? Are my girls simply a product of there environment, as was I? The mere idea of making their own goodies in their very own oven! I chuckled to myself and reveled in the excitement swirling around me. Really, I still kinda feel the same way when I am cooking something new in the kitchen! And then I thought about my mom yesterday. She had made a new goody for Christmas (btw, my mom is kinda of famous in the inner circle. She makes the most delish treats every year! Really, she should sell them!) she was so excited about them she was practically shoving them in my mouth while I was washing dishes! This is years of baking and cooking, and creating, and she is still excited and giddy about food!

So again, I propose the question.....hereditary or not? I am not sure. All I know is that those treats you make in the Easy Bake Oven should be a lot bigger! Nickle sized cupcakes and dime sized cookies aren't going to go very far in our house! Not with all these foodies! But the kids had no objection about the size whatsoever! Baking with this little oven brought sheer joy, because it was something they could make all their very own.

I am sure it won't take long before the girls get bored of the Easy Bake Oven. But when in happens (and it WILL happen), I hope I am ready to have a sous chef or two! I am sure the tradition of "the love of cooking" will prevail!

Food Challenge Revisited

Three weeks ago I announced a challenge. A food Challenge. Fifty two ingredients I have never used. One per week. I took right to it, but couldn't follow up because my computer was on the fritz, and then the holiday hit and I just didn't get back to it.

The first ingredient was parsnips. I made a parsnip, potato, carrot mash. It was wonderful. The great thing about parsnips is that they can pretty much take the place of the starchy potato. I cooked it exactly the same that I would a potato. Peeled it, chopped it up, boiled until soft, then mashed it with some garlic, butter, and half and half. Delish.

I know that I used those parsnips a couple of other ways, but I digress. It was 3 weeks ago. Cant remember. I do know that I will be incorporating this spicy little veggie into our dinners more often!

This week, I am going to be cooking with plantains. The plantain is related to the banana family. It is starchy and low in sugar. It is used cooked or baked more often than it is raw. It is referred to as the pasta and/or potato of the Caribbean. Plantains are used more in savory dishes as a vegetable. It is longer and thinner than a banana, with a thicker skin. They are highly nutritious. High in fiber, potassium, vitamin A & C. And, they are a an energy booster because they are high in carbs. I think I will be making plantains chips, plantain mojo (to go with cuban beans), and something else.....so stay tuned.

Food Challenge!

Food is a big part of my life. I love to cook it, and I love to eat it! However, I can easily get stuck in a rut making the same foods or using the same familiar ingredients. Over and over again. Its time to mix it all up a bit. So, starting this week I am going to use an ingredient that I have never used before. I am challenging myself to use this ingredient in at least two recipes and then report back. I am hoping by doing this, it will increase my cooking skills, broaden my palette, and I think it will be entertaining! The ingredients will vary, I mean they have to! I have to think of 52 ingredients or foods I have never used! This could get interesting....very interesting! And maybe I should take this a step further and make a rule that it has to be healthy? Now that would benefit the whole family!

What is going to be the first ingredient you ask? I am going to start out easy for the first week, I am thinking parsnips. I recently saw a chef use it on a cooking show, and it peaked my curiosity. It is an ugly root vegetable that doesnt look appetizing whatsoever. The parsnip is related to the carrot, but is supposed to be sweeter and even a little buttery. And the good news, it is good for you! High in potassium, and a great source of fiber! Not sure exactly how I am going to use it yet, but I guess you will just have to check back.

THANKFUL.

It's that time of year, we look back reflect on our experiences throughout the last 12 months. Where has this year taken you? And what are you thankful for this year. The one word that sums up what I am thankful for this year is, "TIME".

My husband and I had lots of time together this year. Alone. Three lovely trips that I will always cherish. One thing that made it so marvelous is that I could be Brians wife and friend, and that was it. So often I get into "mommy mode" and forget to make each other a priority. These trips reminded us both of the love we share and how much we enjoy being around each other.

I am so grateful that I have two strong legs, and a set of lungs to carry me miles and miles. I spent a lot of time training. The results of the time spent were life changing. Sawtooth Relay, Ragnar, triathlons, and more. Taking the time for myself makes me a better wife, a more patient mother, and all around more pleasant.

Taking my daughter to kindergarten was heartbreaking, for me. For her it was the best day of her life! I followed her into the classroom, and she looked at me and "shoo-ed" me away. I was so not ready for our time at home everyday to be over. She is growing up so fast that I think I am going to blink and she will be in Highschool.

Nothing makes you appreciate time more than the idea that it might run out. My dad had a heart attack this spring. At one point the Dr's were using words like, "die", "emergency", and worse. Sitting next to my Dad in the hospital as he gave me the death bed talk was frightening. After a double bypass, he is spending his time trying to be as healthy as possible. After 2 months post operation he had walked 300 miles. I am so proud of him.

Life is fragile, and time is short. The way I spend my time is more and more important to me. Time at home being with the people I love is always my first priority. Outside of the home I need to surround myself with things and people that will bring me up, not tear me down. I am so thankful for all the things that have come my way this year and have allowed me to make memories. This life is a gift, and I hope to always remember time and what it means to me.

Running. The mental game.

Over 3 years ago, we went to visit my brother in Ohio. He showed us all around town and on the agenda was a 5k race in Pittsburgh. It was the Steelers 5k. My husband Brian decided about a week before the race that he should start training. I had a 4 month old baby and had been walking and jogging for a couple of months. I remember running with him there in Cincinnati. I did the walk/jog combo, while he ran circles around me (quite literally). I scratched my head and could not for the life of me figure out how he could just keep going. Even when it go hard. I would jog and as soon as I was uncomfortable I would stop. Come race day Brian ran the 5k in 25 minutes. I had a few minutes on my time than that and I was crushed with my performance. I promised myself I would never let myself feel that kind of disappointment again.

Fast forward 6 months. My new trainer Amanda took me outside to run (this was after I vocalized my desire to be a runner). We set out. I was right behind her, starring at her super fit, tight rear end the whole time. The entire quarter mile. Thats right. I could only run a quarter mile before I had to stop. Second time around, same thing. Third time, Amanda told be under no circumstances was I allowed to stop at this same point. I saw that spot coming up, I had to stop, I couldnt run another step, I was dying, I couldnt breathe. Amanda all the while was speaking encouraging words. You are strong, you can do this, yadda yadda yadda. Before I knew it I was passing this spot, and kept going. What the heck? Did I really?

I look back at these two moments all the time. Mostly when the run is hard and I think I cannot go any further. I remember how monumental it was when I discovered, it was all a mental game. I think about how hard the first quarter mile was. Then it was the first mile...and then the first 3 miles and so on. How amazing was the feeling when I pushed past the limit I had mentally placed for myself. How often are we placing limits on what we can do? All the time! The infamous General Patton said, "If you are going to win any battle, you have to do one thing. You have to make the mind run the body. Never let the body tell the mind what to do...the body is never tired if the mind is not tired".

Running is not the easiest sport, but it is one that anyone can do. If they want to. I give myself pep talks all the time while running. The body will inevitably feel tired at some point, but you have to push thru it. When you feel like it is getting difficult, and you are too tired to go on, tell your body the SHUT UP! You are physically capable of going the distance you set out to do!oWhen people tell me they want to start running, I tell them how successful they will be, if they want it. Because really, I am living proof. If you want to run, you can run. The operative word being "want". When I was running that first quarter mile, I never imagined I would have run a 10k, a half marathon, or even a Ragnar race. But everyone starts somewhere. Where will your somewhere be? And where will you let your feet take you?v

e to make the mind run the body. Never let the body tell the mind what to do... the body is never tired if the mind is not tired."

Can a Girl Have it All?

I remember back in highschool (a long time ago), as Juniors we had a writing project about what we wanted to be when we grew up. This assignment was super easy for me. I had my life all mapped out. It entailed college, moving to New York, getting married when I was 28, and working in the corporate world. For those of you who know me, this is not my reality. After college I got married, young, and I have two beautiful little girls. I am now a stay at home mom. This reality is far from my dreams that I had for myself, but it is a pleasant surprise.

There is not a day that goes by that I ever wish my reality was different. Ever. I love my reality. My girls bring me more joy than i could ever imagine. And my husband is driven, ambitious, and supports me always. I would be lying though if I didnt say that there is an inner business woman who kinda wonders "what if".

So what do I do with this? I love being a stay at home mom, but I also want to run a marathon, and I also want to be a business woman. Can we have it all? I think we can.

I spent the last year watching and supporting my friend Heather as I watched this dream become real for her. I have seen confidence ooze from her every pore. I have seen her speak in front of a large audience and even triple her salary. All the while we go on play dates and she is there still for her children in every way. So I decided...I want in!

And here it is. I mulled this over and over again. From every angle. It took a year, but I plugged my nose and jumped! Rodan and Fields. The two doctors that created the infamous Proactiv. They have developed an anti-aging line (exactly what I need). It is A-MAZING! Stopping or even reversing the signs of aging! Who doesnt want to look as young as they can for as long as they can? Well, I have partnered with them to expand their business in Boise and across the nation. The dream of having everything is now at my finger tips! I can be a mom, run my marathon, and even be that successful business women. So excited about this new adventure. And if it is anything like what I have seen, it is going to be an amazing ride!

Side note: If you are looking for an exciting opportunity to help grow a business, let me know. Or even visit my site to check it out! www.evelynmc.myrandf.com

Are you a RUNNER?

Why on earth do you run? Everyone's reason for running may be different. I never have considered myself a "runner" per say. But do I run? Indeed I do. I have several races now under my belt, over 700 miles so far this year. I am not telling you this to brag, but maybe to convince. I have never had the "runner physique" the "athletic ability" or the "love for the run". But things can change.

While pregnant with my second child I began to notice all the people running in and around my neighborhood. Being pregnant is not a great time to begin a new sport, but I remember telling myself, "Someday I WILL RUN"! When Macy was 4 months old I decided it was time. I was working out with a trainer (the best one ever) and running was a goal I vocalized with her. She encouraged me to start. And because she believed in me, I was able to believe in me. I didnt begin running to lose weight, I began to accomplish a goal that seemed unattainable. Fast forward 10 months later, and several 5k and 10k races later....I ran my first Ragnar Race (you will hear more about this later, MUCH more). And when I crossed the finish line I cried. For the first time I actually believed that I was a runner. And I had done something that I thought I would NEVER be able to do.

When people ask if I am a runner, I never really respond that I am. But I know that I could be. Frankly, I am not sure how to answer. I enjoy it (most of the time), I am empowered by it (always), but by a runners definition, I am not amazing at it. I run to clear my mind, to feel good about myself, and to push my own limits physically and mentally. I dont run for anyone else, I run for me!

Recipes that Change your life

Growing up, my mom was always cooking new and different foods. Foods from any culture. And every Sunday she would boast a new "heart smart" meal. Growing up with so many tastes and food culture has molded me into an adventurous eater. Have you ever had that jump onto the table and shout, "Halelluja" moment when trying something new? Or perhaps you have jumped out of your chair and done a little jig? If you have, you have experienced a life changing moment with food. Here are a few foods that have changed my life!

Grilled peaches with blackberry basil butter

Green Smoothie I tried a green smoothie at a party for the first time. It was surprisingly delicious and nutritious. The very next day I went out and bought this fancy shmancy blender. Now we make smoothies all the time!

Quinoa this super food has proven to be a great pasta and rice substitute!

All things sparkly.

I. Love. Sparkles! Bring them on! The more the better! Sometimes I wonder if it is the inner toddler that runs to the first sparkly sweater when I enter the store. But I confess, I cannot stop. Yesterday a great friend giggled and then told me, "only you could pull that off" when I showed her yet another new sparkly top. I cant help it, they make me smile, and i am gonna keep buying anything that makes me sparkly! Look out world, and put your sunglasses on if you need to! I am gonna shine!

Whats in a name?

I spend a small amount of time in the blogging world. It starts with one intriguing blog, then on the side bar a name catches your eye. A name for another blog. You click and read. Then you see another catchy name, and off you go! You can quickly be swallowed into the blogging world.

I have resisted long enough. It is about time for me to start my blog. But what to name it? I briefly looked up a website on how to start a blog. It suggested that I should find a theme to talk about and go from there. Theme? What if you want the freedom to talk about several things? All things that you love? Hence the title. Live. Love. Eat. Run.

Live. I believe it living well. To me this means quality of time. Spend it with the people you love, doing the things that you enjoy. I want to be the best Evelyn that I can be. So I surround myself with things that bring me up, not tear me down. I surround myself with positive things. There is no room for negativity here. Time is precious, and its the choices you make that determine the quality of the time you have.

Love. Need I say more? The Beatles say it the best in the infamous song "all you need is love". I love loyally, and deeply. I am a tenderhearted one that loves with every ounce. I give my love easily and except it unconditionally. When I find something or someone I love I want to shout it from the roof tops. I want to share the things I love with everyone. Dont worry, there will be more of this to come.

Eat. I like to cook, eat, smell, watch it on tv, I love food! I come from a family of "foodies". When we travel, food is a big part of it. When we party, food is a part of it. When we gather, food will inevitably be a part of it. I love creating in the kitchen and enjoying the final product with my family and/or friends.

Run. This word has changed my life. It is now a part of me, and no one can take that away. I worked hard and set goals for myself that seemed unattainable. When i did complete my goals, it was one of the proudest moments I have ever felt. Running makes me a better wife and mother. I am a better person because I run.