Blood, Sweat, and Cupcakes.

21 Day Vegan Challenge

2011-10-21T08:48:00.000-02:30

Hi Folks!

Today marks the first day of my 21 Day Vegan Challenge!

First of all, I'm not doing this with a group or following a plan. I decided after an over-indulgent week, this week past when Hughie was home for a visit, that I needed to get my act together. My running mileage per-week has gone WAY down and I've allowed myself to eat a few things [~~bacon~~] here and there that I wouldn't usually eat, in return I've gotten a little... soft.

So, the plan.

Well... I don't really have one.

I ideally would like to stay between 90 and 100% vegan for the whole 21 days, however, I'm not going to feel defeated or quit if I slip.

I was a strict vegetarian for many many years and currently follow a flexitarian diet sans red meat, so I'm hoping the transition to vegan will be gentle.

Any advice?

Take care,
Alanna

Wildflower Honey Pumpkin Muffins

2011-09-20T14:54:00.000-02:30

I love the Fall.

And it's just around the corner. In fact, here in Newfoundland we are already having beautiful, crisp, sunny days.

Don't get me wrong, I love summer. But this summer was a total dud, where we experienced mostly grey, dull, rainy days.

And Fall has so much to offer. Beautiful colors, crunchy leaves, sweater weather, Thanksgiving, warm comforting meals, scarves, Halloween, and Pumpkin!

What's your favorite thing about Fall?

So, trade in your summer dress for a cozy sweater and appreciate all that is Fall!

Wildflower Honey Pumpkin Muffins
Recipe adapted from 'The Joy Of Cooking'
Makes about 1 1/2 Dozen Muffins

Ingredients:

1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour [feel free to use only all purpose]
1 Cup All Purpose Flour
1 796ml Can Pumpkin
1 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
1/2 Tsp Salt
1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
1/2 Tsp Ground Cloves
1/4 Tsp Nutmeg
1 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Cup Canola Oil
2 Large Eggs
3 Tsp Vanilla
4 Tbsp Wildflower Honey [or any honey you prefer]
Sesame Seeds [optional]

Method:

Preheat over to 350

In bowl, combine all dry ingredients except the brown sugar.
In another bowl, combine all wet ingredients and brown sugar.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet and combine, do not over-mix.
Spoon batter into greased cupcake tins and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 30-35 minutes, this would also be great baked in a loaf tin.

You can thank me later for just how intoxicating these make your home smell :)

Take care,

Alanna

A Little Bike Grease

2011-06-27T11:08:00.002-02:30

It has been raining in my city for over a month, literally.
Everyday there has been rain except for a day here and there!
So, I've really had no training at all to blog about, my runs have been on the treadmill and my riding has been on the trainer. That said, the bike is all tuned up and ready to go!

There is just something about having bike grease under your nails :)

On the baking front there has been an exciting new addition! A brand new, shiny, red, kitchen-aid stand mixer! More about that later!

What have you guys been up to? How is the weather in your little part of the world?

Toffee Bars

2011-05-03T13:36:00.000-02:30

Tomorrow I am going to visit the mister in Halifax for a few days.
Since he is being starved of my sweet treats while we are living apart it's only fair that I whip up something to soothe those pangs during my visit, right?

Enter 'old school' toffee bars!

I found this recipe in a Betty Crocker cookbook from the early 1950s and it is about as easy peasy as it gets. But don't think easy equals bland. These bars are a mix between buttery shortbread, sweet toffee, and comforting chocolate chip cookies.

Toffee Bars
*Adapted from Betty Crocker

1	cup butter, softened
1	cup packed brown sugar
1	teaspoon vanilla
1	egg yolk
2	cups all-purpose flour
1/4	teaspoon salt
1 1/2	cup milk chocolate chips

Method
Mix butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk with wooden spoon. Stir in flour and salt, you can get your hands in there if you feel like it. Now, the actual recipe calls to top the fully baked bars with the chocolate chips and smooth them out so you have a layer of chocolate but, I decided to just mix them in with the batter like you would a chocolate chip cookie.
Press into a 9x9 inch glass baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.

Let cool on a wire rack and start winning hearts :)

Royal Wedding Cupcakes

2011-04-28T12:43:00.003-02:30

I don't know how it happened but I have somehow been swept up into the Royal Wedding madness! I blame it on my Royal watching friends, the fact that I live under the Commonwealth, and of course Kate Middleton's keen fashion sense :)

I've been invited to several tea parties on Friday to celebrate the Royal wedding so I thought it would be a good occasion to use the cute tea cup cupcakes holders that I received as a Christmas gift.

But what to fill them with?

Earl Grey cupcakes with Marmalade buttercream of course!

Earl Grey Cupcakes
1 cup salted butter, room temperature
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup milk
2 bags early grey tea
Few drops of vanilla

Method:
1. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition
4. Add a few drops of vanilla, you don't want vanilla to be the prominent flavor.
3. Whisk dry ingredients together (open tea bags and empty each into the dry ingredients)
4. Add dry ingredients and milk to wet mixture alternately ending with flour, be sure to fold in gently.
Back at 350 degrees for 19 minutes or until toothpick is removed clean.

Marmalade Buttercream
3/4 Cup Unsalted Butter, creamed
Add 1/3 Cup Milk and 3 to 4 Cups Powdered Sugar alternately to butter
Add 3 to 4 Tbsp of good quality marmalade
* Careful what piping tip you use, the orange rind can block up small tips.

So throw on an apron and your most outrageous fascinator and start mixing!

Cupcake Marathon 2011

2011-03-24T18:05:00.001-02:30

So, I just found out about the Cupcake Marathon this morning, I think I can get in the Half Marathon distance within the next couple of days!

Am I too late? I haven't gotten confirmation of my registration yet. Here's hoping :)

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup'cakes'!

2011-03-13T11:26:00.001-02:30

If you haven't noticed already my little blog has been hanging out way more on the cupcake side of thing, then the blood and sweat side of things.

Well, that's because it's winter here. Now, while some of you may be lucky enough to be enjoying a nice mild winter with very little snow, going on Donut Runs, or even enjoying summer on the other side of the world! I am surrounded by the white stuff! So, I've been banished to the treadmill.

Don't get me wrong, I've been running lots! It's just nothing to get excited and report back to you guys about. There's only so many photos of a treadmill control panel one can take.

So, instead I share with you more baked goods!

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup'cakes'

For the cupcakes:
1 Cup [Vanilla] Sugar
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 3/4 Cup Flour
3/4 Cocoa Powder
1 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
1 1/2 Tsp Baking Powder
1/2 Tsp Salt
2 Eggs
1 Cup Milk
1/2 Cup Veg. Oil
2 Tsp Vanilla
1 Cup Boiling Water [This step makes all the difference.]

Method:
Sift dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat with a mixer for about two minutes. Add boiling water and beat until just blended.

Bake at 350F for 19-20 minutes in lined cupcake pan.
Yields 24 Cupcakes.

Peanut Butter-Buttercream
3/4 Cup Butter [softened]
3-4 Tbsp Creamy Peanut Butter [like Skippy, I wouldn't go natural here but you could try]
1/3 Cup Milk
3-4 Cups Powdered Sugar [depending on how thick you want your frosting]
2 Tsp Vanilla

Method:
Beat sugar and milk into the butter and peanut butter, making about three additions of sugar and two of milk. Mix in Vanilla at the end.You may have to play around with how much peanut butter and powdered sugar depending on the desired consistency. Pipe onto cooled cupcakes.

Finally, top with mini peanut butter cups and watch your friends drool :)

Vanilla Bean + Sour Cream Pound Cake

2011-02-06T18:31:00.001-03:30

Weekends are my favorite time to bake, more specifically Saturdays.
Sleep in a little + Cup of hot tea + Quick run + Baked goods = Bliss!

So yesterday morning I threw on my favorite apron and started mixing.

Vanilla Bean Sour Cream Pound Cake
Recipe from Bon Appetit

3/4 cup plus 1 T all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
3/4 cup sugar

1 1/4 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

1 large egg
1 large egg white
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream*

*I would add a little less if I make this again. Just a little too much for my taste

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Butter and flour a metal loaf pan, butter that sucker good!

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt.

3. In a large bowl combine sugar, butter and the seeds of the vanilla bean.

4. Beat until smooth, light and fluffy.
5. Add in the egg, egg white, vanilla extract.
6. Beat until it thickens, about a minute and a half, then add the sour cream and mix for another minute.

7. Add the flour mixture and beat until just Incorporated.
8. Pour the batter evenly into prepared loaf pan.

Bake for 50 minutes or until it passes the tooth pick test!
Let sit in pan until cool. Drizzle with a vanilla glaze or leave it plain. Whatever you prefer!

Enjoy!

And the winner is!

2011-02-05T11:19:00.000-03:30

Jess over at Blonde Ponytail!

Congratulations Jess! I'll be getting your $55 CSN promo code to you today!

Thanks to the rest of you who entered! There will be another chance to win soon!

Alanna

CSN Giveaway!

2011-02-04T07:39:00.000-03:30

I'm extending the CSN Giveaway by one day! The winner will be picked randomly tomorrow!
Click the link, there's still time!

It's a Boy!

2011-01-31T20:51:00.002-03:30

A girlfriend of mine from back in high school is expecting a little boy in just a few weeks and had a small shower for family and friends yesterday.

I took the opportunity to whip up some cupcakes!
I went with my favorite chocolate cupcake recipe and a simple vanilla butter cream. I added some homemade marshmallow fondant teddy bears for a little extra cute.

If you're interested in making your own fondant [which tastes a whole lot better than the store bought stuff] I'll be posting a recipe a little later this week.

Moist Chocolate Cupcakes
1 Cup [Vanilla] Sugar
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 3/4 Cup Flour
3/4 Cocoa Powder
1 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda
1 1/2 Tsp Baking Powder
1/2 Tsp Salt
2 Eggs
1 Cup Milk
1/2 Cup Veg. Oil
2 Tsp Vanilla
1 Cup Boiling Water [This step makes all the difference.]

Method:
Sift dry ingredients into a mixing bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat with a mixer for about two minutes. Add boiling water and beat until just blended.

Bake at 350F for 19-20 minutes in lined cupcake pan.
Yields 24 Cupcakes.

Easy Peasy Vanilla Buttercream
3/4 Cup Butter [softened]
1/3 Cup Milk
3-4 Cups Powdered Sugar [depending on how thick you want your frosting]
2 Tsp Vanilla

Method:
Beat sugar and milk into the butter, making about three additions of sugar and two of milk. Mix in Vanilla at the end.

These are my go to cupcakes, they have never let me down. If they could, they probably wouldn't say the same about me.

Still time to enter my CSN giveaway!

Oops!

2011-01-29T21:16:00.000-03:30

Shit happens...

Keep calm and carry on!

Don't forget to enter my CSN Giveaway here!

Apple, Goat Cheese, and Honey Tart + CSN Giveaway!

2011-01-28T12:09:00.000-03:30

So comforting.

If nothing else this recipe will fill your home with the most amazing scent of butter, apples, and honey... so good.

Pastry can be a bit of an endeavor but in the end I find it actually quite rewarding, especially when your friends ask for seconds!

I received this beautiful Le Creuset tart dish from CSN last week so it was a great excuse to bake something indulgent.

I am so happy with this dish I received from CSN and I'm excited to be able to offer you a chance to win a $55 gift code to use on anything you like from CSN. They have lots of great stuff for your home like flat panel tv stands, cookware, yoga mats, and endless amounts of other stuff! Check it out!

To enter all you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling me what you would use the $55 for at CSN! Also, post this giveaway with a link to this post on your own blog and let me know about it in a comment below for an extra entry!

I'll be choosing a winner at random next Friday (February 4th, 2011).
This giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian readers only.

I based my recipe loosely on this recipe from Los Angeles Times.

Modifications
- 4 medium Gala apples
- Regular honey
- Vanilla sugar
- Sea salt

If you have a little extra time this weekend this recipe is definitely worth a try!

Vanilla Sugar.

2011-01-26T15:17:00.000-03:30

I love vanilla.

Don't get me wrong I also love chocolate, in fact I may very well be a chocolate addict. But there is something about vanilla, it's warm, sweet, and makes everything smell pretty much perfect.

I usually use vanilla extract for my baking but when I'm creating something where vanilla is the predominant flavor I think it's essential to use vanilla beans. However, vanilla beans can be expensive so if you decide to splurge and spend the money on them don't throw out the pods after you scrape them!

Make vanilla sugar!

It is so easy to make and adds the most beautiful flavor in baking where granulated sugar is used.

Vanilla Sugar
3 Cups Sugar
1 Vanilla Bean
Large Jar
Simply throw your vanilla pod and sugar together in the jar and let it sit for a week. You can also use a full vanilla bean, just scrape the seeds out and throw them in with the sugar for an even more intense vanilla flavor!

Your kitchen will smell amazing!

My new buddy!

2011-01-15T11:22:00.000-03:30

Guess who came to stay with me a couple of days ago!?


Running Cupcake!

I can't even tell you how excited I am about this little guy! [I keep referring to it as a boy even with the pink hair and ipod. Boys can wear pink too!]

Big thanks to Rad Runner for offering such an awesome giveaway to her readers! and Blame The Moon for creating such amazing art! If you haven't already you should check out both of these blogs, their great!

I even got a little note with my cupcake...

So sweet!

This little guy will be coming on many a run with me I think :)

So, what name should I give my running cupcake?

Mad Men Salad

2011-01-12T18:06:00.000-03:30

Well, I'm slowly getting settled back in at home and that means getting groceries and cooking.
While we were in Florida, Hughie and I visited an organic market. This was something that I had been looking forward to leading up to the trip. We don't really have an organic market in St. John's where I live, we barely have an organic section at our local grocery shops so this was quite a treat! One of the things I purchased while there was anchovy paste in a tube.

Today I was thinking about different ways to incorporate the paste into my cooking and caesar salad was at the top of my list. I've never made my own caesar salad dressing, that is, until today.

Recently I was watching Rachel Ray, not a common occurrence but I'll tune in once in a while, and Christina Hendricks was her guest. She showed Rachel a ceasar recipe that she makes all the time. Now, I've watched the first season of Mad Men and I know that I might get some crap for this but, I didn't really like it... I'm sorry!

It didn't keep my attention and I found it so... slow. That said, the style in the show is fantastic and I really liked the character of Joan, I mean who doesn't love a curvy red head? :)

So, in honor of Joan Holloway I made this Mad Men ceasar salad.
Adapted from this recipe.

Mad Men Ceasar
1 Bunch curled leaf lettuce (or whatever greens you like)
2 T Fresh lemon juice
1 Clove minced garlic
1 t Anchovy paste
1 Egg (boiled for 45 seconds)
Dash Worcestershir sauce
2 T Olive Oil
Generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese
Mix all ingredients together, slowly whisking the oil in last.

If you have some crusty bread around cut it into small chunks and toss with Olive oil. Throw in a hot pan and crisp them up for quick croutons.

I would consider my first ceasar dressing attempt a success!

Do you like to make your own salad dressing?

Back Home.

2011-01-10T11:13:00.000-03:30

Hi guys!
I've been traveling all over for the past three weeks and I just returned home last night.
On December 22nd Hughie and I spent the day at the St. John's International Airport after our flight got delayed several times and then canceled.

We were lucky enough to get a flight to Toronto that night, spent the night there and left for Cleveland the following morning. We spent an hour in Cleveland and then jumped on a plane to Florida, finally, where my parents picked us up and we drove two hours to their home to spend a sunny Christmas with them.

The first few days of our stay were beautiful, warm, and sunny! We spent Christmas day sailing in the gulf of Mexico watching the dolphins play. It was perfect.

Merry Christmas!

Not to mention the wonderful gift my Uncle surprised me with! I'll let you know why it's so special in a minute.

We enjoyed so much wonderful food cooked by my aunt and mom, and also ate at some really great restaurants!

Pureed squash, risotto, and fresh panko crusted scallops and shrimp!

It cooled off a little during the last few days of our trip but that didn't stop us! We still spent time at the beach and shopped till we dropped!

Of course I treated myself to some foodie gifts!

Tomato paste in a tube was my favorite find!

We said so long to the sun and headed back to Newfoundland to unload and repack for Halifax.

Now, I haven't mentioned it yet on the blog but Hughie accepted a great job in Halifax and will be living there indefinitely. Considering I am still completing my Masters I wont be joining him. However, we truly love each other and have been together too long and care too much for each other to let a little ocean get it the way of our relationship! There will be lots of visits and skype, it's only a hour and a half flight after all! (I may sound optimistic and light now, but you should have seen me at the airport yesterday... oh boy.)

Have any of you done long distance?

We spent the last 10 days driving across Newfoundland, taking a Ferry to Nova Scotia and then finally getting Hughie settled into his new home. He is in a great area and there is a Italian market and bike shop just around the corner :)

Road tripping with a little Bowie

I couldn't leave without giving Hughie a little sugar (mind out of the gutter friends). I made sure he had enough chocolate chip cookie dough to tie him over until our next visit!

I got back late last night after a delayed flight and have so much to do before I get back to classes on Tuesday.

I hate to say it but the only running I did in the past three weeks was to the fridge, around the shopping outlets, and one very very short run with Hughie in a beautiful park in Halifax. I did however buy some new running shoes so it looks promising!

I'll leave you with my favorite photo from our trip, oh la la!

Hughie frolicking in the sun!

How was your holiday? Are you back in the swing of things?

Santa's helpers!

2010-12-20T17:03:00.000-03:30

Hey guys!

It is getting crazy busy trying to get everything ready for our trip on Wednesday but I wanted to share my cakepops with you!

I'm invited to one of my best friend's annual Christmas party tonight so I thought I'd whip up something sweet. I originally set out to make milk chocolate turtle fudge, but after three failed attempts [which I'll tell you about in another post!] I let the scorched chocolate win and moved on to these cutie ~~pies~~ pops!

Aren't they sweet?!

I followed Bakerella's cakepop instructions and had a really fun time making them :)

This will probably be my last post before we travel to Florida so hopefully I'll be able to post from down south!

Happy Holidays!

The cutest, bestest, cupcake giveaway!

2010-12-15T12:44:00.000-03:30

Running Cupcake!

Could this be more perfect? It represents my two all time favorite things! Cupcakes + Running!

Rad Runner is hosting a super duper awesome giveaway! If I sound giddy and excited it's because I really am! I just can't get over how great this little guy is!

And if you think he's cute, check out the rest of Blame the Moon's amazing art!

So, as much as I want this guy I thought you should all have a shot at winning him too! Enter here!

Let the holidays begin!

2010-12-10T13:10:00.000-03:30

Hey guys!

12am last night I dropped my final paper in my department's mailbox and officially finished my first semester of graduate studies! It was a scary and stressful semester but I made it through! Now I can finally relax and start enjoying the holiday season, there is lots of baking and ~~boring treadmill~~ crisp morning runs to be had! Not to mention Hughie and I will be leaving for Florida on the 22nd to visit my parents! I'm looking forward to getting a little sun in the dead of winter :)

Garlic
The last time we talked I had a bit of a crisis on my hands, an abundance of garlic. So I took Small Town Girl's advice and cooked up some 20 clove garlic! It.was.amazing.

I some how lost half of the pictures I took while cooking so you can enjoy the visual stimulation of spices in a bowl and a pan full-o-buttah!

Who doesn't like admiring butter anyways?

You can find the recipe I used here!

And since we're on the topic of butter...

I made these red velvet cupcakes for a university potluck and they are YUMMY!


Oh...helloo.

I followed the recipe from Cook's Illustrated and added a couple extra Tbsp of Cocoa.

What are you up to during the holidays?

Alanna

Garlic Crisis.

2010-11-26T11:45:00.000-03:30

CSN Stores

After winning a CSN giveaway over at Everyday Foodie I've been trying to decide what the heck I should use my gift code on! These guys sell everything, and I mean everything! From sling backpacks, furniture, home decor, to kitchen supplies! I think I'm going to use it towards some sort of kitchen utensil but I can't decide. What do you think I should use my CSN win on?

[It's not all about me, I'm hoping to be able to offer you guys a giveaway soon too!]

Moving on...

Friends,
I need your help! You see, I eat a lot of garlic, so when I was at the grocery store a few weeks ago and noticed they had large garlic braids I threw one in my cart full of excitement and continued on my way.

Well, it turns out I don't eat as much garlic as I though I did and I still have the full braid sans one head.

So, what I need from you guys is your best 'chock-full-o-garlic' recipes, and I'll do my best to document them on the blog! I'll try anything, aside from red meat [except for bacon, mmm bacon].

Happy Thanksgiving to my American readers! [even though I'm a day late]
And, if you're heading into that Black Friday madness, be safe!

Alanna

Family Folklore

2010-11-17T13:22:00.000-03:30

I've mentioned on the blog before that I'm completing my Masters in Folklore, and recently I was assigned to complete a photographic essay for one of my classes. The only restriction was that it had to be something of interest to folklorists, of course the foodie in me took over.

Being in part a foodie blog I thought I'd share it with you guys, however, I'm going to leave out the captions that I included in the course essay.

Since I can remember my father has been baking tea buns using the same recipe that my great grandmother created herself when she was first married, it's a simple and comforting recipe and one I intend to recreate throughout my life as well.

Do you have any recipes that have been passed down in your family?

Side note: My wonderful boyfriend Hughie let me use his DLSR and helped me with the technical stuff :)

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2010-10-26T22:11:00.000-02:30

Hi bloggy bloggers!

If there is something you should know about me it might be that I ADORE Halloween!
I enjoy the whole month of October... wearing tights, crisp air, red and orange leaves, horror film reruns, pumpkins, and little dead running around!
I usually go out of my way to make a fun costume but the last couple of years have been so busy with my final undergrad year and now my first Masters semester that I haven't had a chance to plan anything.
Although I may not get to dress up this Halloween and spend some time with friends I do plan on celebrating, I'm planning a spooky themed Halloween dinner for Hughie and I!
The menu is coming along and I'll be sure to photograph the festivities and share it with you guys!


Halloween '09

I haven't had much time to do anything lately but school work, however, I did take some time last week to bake up some cupcakes for my departments Folklore society bakesale, these bad boys are likely to induce intense sugar rush!

German Chocolate with Vanilla Butter cream

Have you been baking any spooky treats? What are your plans for Halloween?

Entering a new phase.

2010-09-13T10:40:00.000-02:30

Friends,

It has been a while and I've completely neglected you, don't give up on me yet :)

I've just started my Masters graduate program and I have a knot in my stomach that doesn't seem like it's going anywhere soon. It's exciting and completely nerve wrecking all the same.

Once I get organized and ease into things a little more I hope to start blogging regularly again.

My running has suffered a little as well but I managed to get in a quick two miles this morning (still on restricted distance due to injury) and hopefully I can't get back to running regularly ASAP.

For now I'll leave you with the cake I baked for Hughie's birthday, which is today!
He deserves the very best in everything, but for now he'll have to settle for a silly birthday cake and lots of hugs and kisses :)

Take care,

Alanna

Vacation!

2010-08-14T10:02:00.000-02:30

Well hellloooo!
First!
[Geek Turned Athlete] is having a Silver Maple GIVEAWAY!
Geek Turned Athlete is one of my favorite blogs, she never fails to impress me with her seemingly endless energy and determination! and now she is hosting an awesome giveaway! Check it out here!

Yesterday marked my last day of work for the summer before I start my Masters program in September, it feels great to have two and a half weeks of me time before I jump into the next two years of my life. I don't think I've mentioned it oh the blog but I've worked in a Folklore archive for the past two years. I spend my days researching and listening to old interviews with interesting people.


I still use a switch board, sadly not for phone calls


It took a while getting used to all the equipment, but I love it

On the training front

I've been cycling up a storm, indoors. I'm a wuss and there are no bike lanes in my city [they are currently being implemented however] so I don't like to ride without my cycling bodyguard Hughie, enter Indoor Trainer.

Cycle Tacx

I bought this second hand for an obscenely great price and and thrilled with it! It took some tinkering with but I got it all set up and ready to go!

I had to change out my back wheel, I had recently put on some thicker tires so I could do some unpaved trails without blowing out a tire or falling to my death :) So I had to take off the back tire and put my skinny road tire back on.


Bike dirt

There is something about working on my bike and getting dirty that I love, it makes me feel accomplished, even if I don't know what I'm doing!

The trainer itself is a little loud once I really get going but it's smooth and I love it! hip hip hooray!

Hughie is doing a 90km ride for the provincial lung association today as we speak! Quite the endeavor, I'll be going to meet him at the finish line later today but first I'm going to watch 'Julie and Julia' (finally!) and bake some cookies to surprise the mister with at the finish.

Tomorrow we are going to a Blueberry Festival! There is going to be a 3ft pie along with a pie eating contest, think I could win!?

Until next time,

Alanna

A runners body.

2010-08-01T16:41:00.000-02:30

Hi guys!

I hope everyone is having a relaxing weekend, and if you've participated in a race/event I hope you're having an extra relaxing weekend :)

While I was hanging out today with a friend I was reading through some of my running magazines I hadn't got a chance to really read since I bought them a few weeks ago and I was amazed at how many articles there were on weight loss. While I understand that us runners have to be fit and healthy to do what we do; and many new runners start running for weight loss, I am surprised at the great emphasis that is put on being thin.

Making sense?

Runners come in all shapes and sizes, we don't all look like Kara Goucher that's for sure but I see it all the time around the blog world, women striving for that "runners body", what does that even mean?

I'm not a size two, I'm not 115 pounds, but in a race I've beat the pants of girls who were.

Please, don't get me wrong. I'm not insulting anyone who is either or those things, I'd probably have a much easier time finding jeans if I were a size two! All I'm saying is that we are all different.

Don't strive for a runners body, strive to run an extra mile, or a negative split or a PB and take the body that that goal gives you.

I've had several friends who have achieved great weight loss goals and still constantly beat themselves up about an extra few pounds that they can't shed or the fact that they just can't change what their mama gave them, instead of focusing on how far they've come and what that body of theirs has achieved.

I'm not skinny, I'm not fat, but I am strong. I take great pride in knowing that my "thick" legs and my booty will take me where I want to go, including across that finish line.

I know this is a little out of character for my blog but I felt slightly inspired to comment on the subject. Our bodies are amazing, and they are all different, take pride in what they can do first and foremost.

and on that note, I love this Nike campaign.

Until next time,

Alanna

Two weeks today.

2010-07-26T17:21:00.000-02:30

Hi guys!

Today marks the two week mark, two weeks since I was told I had a stress fracture and couldn't run for at least two weeks. This morning I was dead set on running this evening, just one mile, starting from scratch. But, after talking with Hughie briefly on the way to work I've decided to take a few more days off, he made the important point of just how much worse I would feel if I hurt myself further and had to take even more time off.

So, we wait just a bit longer.

I have been having a really hard time this past two weeks without running, I knew it was going to be rough but my whole mood has changed, I'm sluggish and a little down without my nightly run to look forward to. Yesterday was the Tely 10 race that I had to drop, the weather was great, record numbers registered and I missed all the fun. Yesterday was a roller coaster of emotion, I felt completely off the entire day, I just couldn't shake it. It's fascinating how much one can truly take for granted something that means so much to them. There were days pre-injury the very last thing I wanted to think about doing was running and now all I think about and want to do is run... humph.

Don't think I've been shut in and sulking for the past two weeks however!

I took another cycling day trip to Bell Island and didn't get rained out! It was a great day riding in the sun!

I bought a bicycle trainer! and a Garmin bike sensor! Now I can bring my cycling inside when the weather turns and hopefully build my endurance.

and the highlight of the past couple weeks, Sea Kayaking!

This past Saturday Hughie and I and 8 of our friends set sail with a tour group in two man kayaks!


Our friend Will captured the excitement!


Cute Starfish!

A map of our journey!

Thousands of Mussels! Not actually from our kayaking trip, but another adventure to Flat Rock recently.

Hughie has a lot of great pictures from the Kayaking trip that I'll share with you when he uploads them and so on. I had such a great time, I was completely comfortable out on the water except for a small incident with a cave which Hughie will never let me forget... I may be slightly claustophobic. hehe!

That's all for now, I have some products that I'm going to review for you asap!

Stay tuned,

Alanna

It could be worse.

2010-07-12T20:39:00.000-02:30

Hi Guys!

Well, last time I mentioned that I was having foot troubles and was worried about possibly having a stress fracture. I went to my doctor this morning and after a jumble of different physical tests I got some good and bad news.

The Bad: It is a stress fracture.
The Good: It is a minor stress fracture.

I was told that I can't run, at least for a couple weeks and then I have to build up from a mile or two, at a slow pace. It was hard to hear, especially two weeks before my Tely 10 race and some smaller races that I had wanted to participate in.

I was having a lot of doubts about the race coming up so soon but I still had it in the back of my mind that I was going to get out and do it, now I have no choice but to drop it.

I'm definitely suffering from mild injury depression today but I'm looking on the bright side, this will give me a chance to work on my cycling :)

My doctor said I was really lucky I stopped running when I noticed the pain because it could have been a lot worse! So, lucky me!

At least it was a great weekend.

Saturday my friend Robyn and I spent the afternoon soaking up the sun and the park! Even with sunscreen on I acquired a little sunburn but I'm taking care of it.

Yesterday Hughie and I decided to go on bit of an adventure, to Bell Island. Bell Island is a small Island located off the coast of Conception Bay, about a 20 minute drive and 20 minute Ferry ride away from my house. It was a beautiful day so we loaded up our bikes on Hughie's new car bike rack and off we went.

Without a car (and just our bikes) it was only $1.75 for each of us to go to and from the Island on the Ferry, what a cheap adventure!

We boarded the Beaumont Hamel Ferry and set sail!

I hadn't been on a large boat in quite some time, it was exciting! Our bikes enjoyed the ride too.

One end of the Island in the distance!

The bad news is when we got over there our beautiful day turned to pouring rain. We ran from the Ferry to the local Fish and Chips place and ordered some dinner and waited to dry off. Needless to say we didn't get any cycling in, unless you count to and from the Ferry and restaurant.

Defeated by the rain.

Hughie snapped these photos.

Even with the rain and not getting to cycle it was still a lot of fun! I love little adventures!

So, here is to future adventures and coming back a stronger, better and injury free runner!

Take care,

Alanna

Training Pause.

2010-07-08T19:19:00.000-02:30

Things have been really busy!

I started a new job position this week and my days have been flying by. My training has been next to non-existent (which I feel terrible about) and I'm having strange pains and numbness in my big toe on my right foot, of course I'm fearing the worst... the dreaded stress fracture. I'll be seeing my doctor on Monday, hopefully I get the green light to keep on running, until then I'll be cross-training.

So, I hate to be a bore but I don't have much to update you on.

When all else fails, bake cookies!

I'll be back in action soon, promise!

Take Care,

Alanna

Triathlon Itch.

2010-06-28T14:09:00.000-02:30

Hello!

It was quite the exciting weekend!

Friday was a cross-training day, I did a hot and sweaty 60 minute group ride class and then spent the evening relaxing on the couch with the mister. Saturday morning we woke up to a beautiful day and I whipped up some chocolate chip and blueberry pancakes, I used the pancake recipe from the joy of cooking but forgot to take a photo of the final product. Fail. We had them with some strawberries and real maple syrup, yum!

After Hughie had taken his bike out to run some errands he returned home and we got ready for our first run together! I was so excited I completely forgot to capture the moment on film, so I'll have to get a picture next time.

It was a really hot afternoon and we set off to run some trails at the neighborhood park. We ran an easy 2.5 miles and walked around a bit, overall we covered 4 miles. It was so nice to have him out there by my side and he did so well! He enjoyed it too!

Later that evening we went to a friends house to enjoy some good company and maybe a few too many beverages, which didn't lend itself well to getting up early the next morning to go cheer on our friend Keith at his first triathlon.

We dragged ourselves out of bed around 7am and made our way to the Tri location, what an exciting event! I've never been to a triathlon before but the atmosphere was excellent and everyone seemed to be excited to be there!

It was a chilly morning and I was glad I wasn't the one in the water, the event was sold out with 200 participants.

I had the most fun watching everyone run for the finish after the 5k, there I am with the red hair, clapping my heart out!

Keith did great in his very first Tri. Looking strong the whole time!

The big finish!

All photos courtesy of TriNL.

It was so much fun, I now have a serious itch to train for my first Triathlon next year!

I skipped my long run yesterday because I was so tired so I'll be heading out for a nice long one this evening.

Take Care,

Alanna

Head over to Shut Up and Run!'s blog to enter a great giveaway!

A new running partner.

2010-06-22T11:43:00.000-02:30

Training: 6 Miles, 52 Min.

Hello bloggies!

I had a great weekend, it was completely laid back. Friday morning I did two classes at the gym, the first was a body active group which KILLED me, it was my first time taking the class and it took every last bit of energy I had to get through it. It was a class based entirely around weight training and full body work, I was shaking like a leaf!

I thought about skipping the group ride class the was right after it but I had already set up my bike and put my towel and water bottle on the bike to save it, so why not!

I could barely hold myself up on the bike for that 60 minutes. After I left I couldn't raise my arms above my chest, I haven't pushed myself that hard in quite some time.

Later that evening Hughie and I had supper at our favorite Indian restaurant and made a little trip to our local running room. Hughie is a cyclist, and that's that. I've teased him off and on about coming for a run with me sometime but he had no interest, at all.

Until a week ago, we were talking about my race coming up in just over four weeks and how I'm feeling a little behind in my training and all of a sudden he said he would train with me!

This is a big deal ladies and gents, a BIG deal.

He's a keeper :)

He had a foot mapping done and bought his very first pair of running shoes!

I can't wait to run with him, it'll be a whole new running experience.

While at the Running Room I picked up a new hydration pack, a Camelbak. It's very small, only holding 1.5 liters of water. It'll be great for those longer runs and hopefully it doesn't chafe, my only worry.

I also bought this pineapple Gu, which didn't go down so easy,

Also, over the weekend I baked some cupcakes for the 'Sparks' of The Girl Guides of Canada's for their 100th anniversary. They were a hit and were apparently gone in minutes :)

Today is suppose to be a rest day so we'll see how it goes, maybe another installment of 'The Joy of Cooking June'?

Yum in my Tum + Happiness in a Bag!

2010-06-15T20:39:00.000-02:30

Training: Monday, June 15: 60 min Group Ride.

Well, I've cooked up my first random dish from 'The Joy of Cooking' for 'Joy of Cooking June!' I wish I could tell you that it was something fantastically intricate and gourmet but it just wasn't. I sectioned out the recipes section of the book and flipped the pages and threw my finger down on page 575, 'Japanese Steakhouse Ginger Dressing'. It really couldn't get much easier than this, throw everything in a food processor and there you go, all done.

I have to say, it was super simple but super yummy! I had it over a bed of mixed spring greens and avocado, on the side I had some maple salmon (mix real maple syrup with two T shallot and pour over, broil for 8 minutes).

So, this dinner was REALLY easy but was extremely satisfying. Hopefully I stop on something a little more interesting for my next 'Joy of Cooking June' installment :)

Today I received a much anticipated and anxiously awaited package at my door!

oh, Lululemon, how I love you! You're pricey, but you're worth it!

Upon opening my package I realized I ordered the ninja running package. Black shirt, black pants, black socks! Oh well, black always looks good right!?

My Lululemon gear always fits well and lasts and lasts through all my sweaty work outs, and I don't know about you guys, but for me it's absolutely essential to be comfortable while running.

Modern Racer Tank
Run: Empower Crop II
W Ultimate Running Sock

That's what I received in that wonderful white package, I'm excited to try it all out tomorrow.

That's all for now!

Alanna

The Joy of Cooking

2010-06-10T17:33:00.000-02:30

Training: June 9, 60 minute group ride (spin)
June 10, 3 miles (tempo)

Well it's been a slow week on the training front. I woke up with an extremely stiff neck/shoulder on Monday which made it really uncomfortable to run, so I didn't. Then, on Tuesday I woke up with the existing stiff neck and a very sore hamstring, even though I had a rest day the previous day.

I blame these two ailments on two things:
1. I need a new pillow, the one I have now is just terrible.
2. I decided it was time to take the 'injury prone' part of 'injury prone runner' out of my subtitle for the blog. I have been injury free since last May (pulled hamstring which wasn't all that serious) and thought it was time to just be a 'runner'. I did this on Sunday... coincidence? :)

So, I took two rest days and eased back into it with a group ride which stretched out both my neck and hamstring nicely.

Now, onto FOOD.

Last month I finally picked up my very own copy of 'The Joy of Cooking', it was a good day. I've spent some quality time browsing the many recipes but have yet to try anything out. So, I've decided for the few weeks left of June I'll pick one recipe randomly a week and try it out! No, I haven't seen 'Julie and Julia' (little known secret, my first name is actually Julia; not Alanna, but I've been called Alanna since birth) yet but maybe I should check it out for inspirations sake, and the fact that I adore Meryl Streep!

I've also been asked to whip up some special cupcakes for a charity event coming up so I'll keep you posted on those!

Take care!
Alanna

Race Anxiety.

2010-06-06T21:32:00.000-02:30

Training: 2 Miles (Tempo/Hills: Lots of Knee Pain)

Last night I had a strange dream that seemed as though it spanned across my entire nights sleep. I dreamt that it was race day for the Tely 10 that I'm currently training for, but instead of a 10 mile race it was actually a full marathon. In my dream I had a half an hour until race start and I couldn't find my favorite running shorts, I couldn't properly explain to my boyfriend how and when to mix my Nuun for when I ran past him during the race, couldn't find my luna bar, hadn't slept and I was extremely under trained. I arrived at the start after the race had begun and I was way behind that pack trying to catch up, super fatigued and panic stricken. What a nightmare.

I woke up in the middle of the night and my chest was tight and I felt such anxiety. This morning Hughie (the boyfriend) told me he thought I was running in my sleep!

The truth is I think this dream was simply a reflection of the anxiety that i'm currently feeling. May was a crazy month and I should have been training much harder and consistently than I was, for this reason I have been fairly stressed about being ready for my race.

I keep thinking how disappointed i'll be if I don't beat last years time. It's such a silly thought that's interfering with just enjoying my runs. I need to just relax and not worry about a new PR.

Just.Relax.

Friday evening Hughie and I enjoyed some delicious Indian food at our favorite local restaurant 'International Flavors'. It is a restaurant owned by the sweetest 'take no crap' lady who cooks just one meal, the most amazing one meal mind you. :)

Today was the first sunny and warm day that we've had in a while so the boyfriend and I took advantage of it by spending the afternoon in the park, we picked up some subway and ate it in the sun!

I became quite fond of this little guy, just so handsome, hehe!

Pictures courtesy of the mister

While at the park I also discovered an old/new (to me) trail that I can't wait to run/bike on!

Take care,

Alanna

Bringing the baking back to the blog.

2010-06-04T13:08:00.000-02:30

I sometimes forget about the "cupcake" part of 'blood, sweat and cupcakes'. I bake, a lot! Yet, I always forget to blog about it. My confection of choice is the cupcake, to me there is nothing more perfect than a tiny little cake topped with a pillow of sugary goodness. A good cupcake can change your life, in my opinion :)

However, I like to bake all kinds of things! Today I received a request from my Dad for a muffin that included blueberries, banana, and peanut butter. Easy Enough!

Peanut Butter, Banana, Blueberry Muffins:

2 Large Overripe Bananas
6 oz. Vanilla Yogurt
1/2 C Peanut Butter
3 T & 2t Egg White
1 t Vanilla
1/3 C Sugar
1 C Whole Wheat Flour
3/4 C All Purpose Flour
2 T Chia Seeds
Dash of Cinnamon
1 t Baking Soda
1 C Fresh Blueberries

They came out so moist! With no milk or butter!

Yesterday evening the mister and I took a trip to The Outfitters, a local outdoor equipment shop. I was in the market for a new hydration pack I could use while running, I have one that is great for cycling but too big for running. To my dismay they didn't have what I was looking for. I did however pick up some running essentials.

Body Glide, Orange-Ginger Nuun, A handheld North Face water bottle, and Cliff Shot Blocks: Lemon-Lime and Cran-razz. I got the Cran-razz for a dollar because they had recently expired... I wont be eating those before an important run!

I've only tried Nuun once before in its original flavor, I'm looking forward to trying this one out.

Do you have any running must haves?

Stick to the curb.

2010-06-02T08:44:00.000-02:30

Training:

Monday, May 31: Two runs; 2 miles / 4 miles.
Tuesday, June 1: Rest day / Serious house cleaning and grocery shopping :)
Wednesday, June 2: Cross Train; 30 minutes with Jillian Michaels.

Hi Friends,

So, we left off with me telling you about my sidewalk vs. road situation. I wasn't sure who to call about it, I had a hard time finding a proper phone number for the community service / city council department so I did what any runner looking for local running information would do, I called the Running Room. Sure enough, I'm suppose to be on the sidewalk except during a sanctioned race. They did however say without saying that if you're not running with a blindfold on and have a certain amount of sense then it's usually okay to run on the street curb, using your own good judgment of course.

So, that's that.

The weather still hasn't completely let up, it's the beginning of June and we were issued a frost warning. I mean, come on!

That's all for now,

Alanna.

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Visit Jolene over at Everyday Foodie to enter her awesome Stevia giveaway!

Sidewalk confusion + Bike ride.

2010-05-31T09:40:00.000-02:30

Training:
Friday, May 28th: Rest day.
Saturday, May 29th: Bike ride, no time or distance recorded.
Sunday, May 20th: Run 50 minutes, forgot Garmin at home. (no distance recorded)

Hi friends!

I spent this past weekend out of town and my training and nutrition went at least half way out the window! Aside from a leisurely bike ride on Saturday the extent of my exercise was flipping things on the BBQ and walking to and from the campfire to the cabin for another beverage.

It was nice to ride around the roads of Bellevue and not have to worry about much or any traffic.

It was a nice little bike ride. We travelled along both paved and unpaved roads, my tires are a little thin to be comfortable on loose gravel but it was pretty well packed down and I didn't have any problems. It was a little muddy in some areas but nothing and I mean nothing compared to Lisa's weekend ride over at Bike Bake Blog!

It was lovely!

We returned to town around 4pm yesterday evening and I knew I had to get out for a substantial run. I geared up and set out. Now, as a runner you must make a decision when road running weather to run on the pavement or the sidewalk. Legally you're suppose to run on the sidewalk but I find the constant tilt of the sidewalk to wreak havoc on my ankles so I do run close to the sidewalk on the street and am very conscious of my surroundings. Yesterday however I decided to run on the sidewalk, there was quite a bit of traffic around the time I set out and thought it would be the best decision.

I was trucking along and noticed a horn beeping that seemed fairly close, I looked and to my surprise saw two men in a community service van on the other side of the road trying to get my attention. I took out my ear buds and acknowledged them. The driver yelled "If you're running you should get off the sidewalk!" I said "Excuse me?" and he repeated it again. Confused I replied "I thought I was suppose to be on the sidewalk!" Driver: "No, not if you're running, there are people walking, you shouldn't be on the sidewalk!"

Still confused, I agreed and stepped off the sidewalk onto the road and went on my way.

Several minutes later I was facing oncoming traffic, and one car which incessantly blared their horn at me to get off the road, I assume.

I know for a fact that my city rules that runners stay on the sidewalk, while most don't. I prefer to run on the road so if the rules have changed, fantastic. But I don't think that's the case. I'm going to get in touch with someone today about what happened and see if I can figure out just where I'm suppose to be!

Over and out,

Alanna

A. Wicks, B.A

2010-05-27T09:42:00.000-02:30

Training: 3 Miles: 35 Minutes

Well, it was a strong run this morning and it felt great! And now I'm right back on track with my training schedule for the Tely 10.

The past week has been hectic and my training went straight out the window. It was a long weekend here in Canada last weekend and I was out of town. Meaning I was away from the treadmill which wouldn't have been a problem had I been in town but the roads were narrow where I was staying and people tend to drive like maniacs for some reason during the holiday weekend, therefore and no running for me.

On top of the weekend off I had a crazy Tuesday, I convocated!

It was a long, very warm ceremony but I have to say it felt really good after many years of hard work to finally walk across that stage. Now, on to my Masters!

May has been a crazy month!

I've mentioned on the blog that sometimes after I run I suffer from extreme bouts of sneezing and a runny nose that last anywhere from an hour to two days. The symptoms are very similar to that of allergies except this happens all year round. I recently went to see my doctor about the problem and he didn't seem all that sure of what it could be, he advised me to try a Neti pot. The idea of a Neti pot is a little strange so I purchased HydraSense, it's similar to a Neti pot but the solution (sea water) comes with it and it's disposable. The next time my sinuses act up I'm going to give this stuff a go.

I'll keep you posted, I mean who doesn't want to keep up with how well my sinuses rinse out? right?

My bike is all tuned up and ready to ride for the summer, just need some sunshine!

Take care,

Alanna.

1,000 Words: Cycling Trip '09

2010-05-19T18:54:00.000-02:30

Looking forward to what this summers trip has in store.

New born Garmin.

2010-05-17T10:32:00.000-02:30

Hi bloggies!
Last monday was my 25th birthday and I was a very spoiled, lucky lady!
I received a Garmin forerunner 405 from my parents. It was a total surprise and I was thrilled! Garmins are pricey and my student budget most likely wouldn't allow for one until I finished grad school. Speaking of grad school, I also received my official letter of congratulations of undergraduate degree completion and will officially be starting grad school in the Fall.

Garmin!

I'm so happy! It almost feels like I have a new pet or a new born! HA! I think i'll have to give little new born Garmin a name.

The weather here in St.John's, NL has been terrible! We always get more than our fair share of rain and fog in the Spring but it has been non-stop for the past month. I guess that's what you get when you live on an island in the middle of the Atlantic.

My wonderful, handsome mister surprised me with some mini bike tour essentials.

A sleeping pad.

A sleeping pad chair converter.

and A camp stove!

I'll have to take some picture of the new gear to show you soon.

The evening ended over a nice meal with my parents and Hughie and a giant piece of cake!

Delish!

Tely 10 Training:

Well, I thought things were going ok. I mean I knew I had lost a lot of my endurance over the winter but my easy runs felt fine, I should have known better.

Yesterday called for a long run but it was cold and raining out so I took to the treadmill.

Miles 1 & 2: Everything felt fine, I kept it nice and easy for the first two miles, had a yogurt before getting started and thought that would be enough to get me though, mistake number one.

Mile 3: I picked it up and drank a lot of water, mistake number two.

I was aiming to run at least five miles, not a long run but any more on the treadmill makes me a little crazy.

Mile 4: Took it up to 7.5 MPH which felt great, kept drinking water, mistake number three.

Mile 5: Dry heaves and vomit (sorry). Fail.

It was terrible, I felt light headed and no one likes to throw up. I assume there were several contributing factors that lead to vomit.

1. Empty tummy.

2. Way too much water.

3. Out of shape.

That last one hurts the ego. I've got about nine or ten weeks left to get ready for the Tely which means I seriously have to pick it up a few notches.

I'll let you know how it goes!

Alanna.

Quick Update!

2010-05-09T11:44:00.000-02:30

Hello all!

This is going to be short and simple, this weekend i've been celebrating my 25th birthday which is tomorrow. It has been a wonderful weekend so far and the boyfriend surprised me with a camp stove and sleeping pad (plus converter to make the sleeping pad a chair) for our bike trip later this summer. We spent friday night with friends and had a lovely fancy schmancy dinner out last night, mmm mmm good.

This past week I started training for the Tely 10 and will be updating more frequently about the progress I'm making leading up to the big day.

Also, check out Skinny Runner's GU giveaway for a chance to win a boat load of GU!

Happy Mother's Day

Alanna

Signal Hill + Sharkies

2010-04-27T17:30:00.000-02:30

Hello!

Well, the weather here in beautiful Newfoundland has been has been a total energy suck lately. It has been rainy/fogy/cold and grey for about three weeks straight with the occasional sunny day break, yesterday was one of those days!

A sunny day is cause for celebration, and celebrate I did with a run/hike. This little sunny day celebration took place on Signal Hill which for those who don't already know holds a lot of historic value!

History Lesson!

The final battle of the Seven Years' War in North America was fought in 1762 at the Battle of Signal Hill, in which the French surrendered St. John's to the British under the command of Lt. Colonel William Amherst. Lt. Colonel Amherst renamed what was then known as "The Lookout" as "Signal Hill," because of the signalling that took place upon its summit from its flagmast. Flag communication between land and sea would take place there from the 1600s until 1960.

also,

On December 12, 1901, the first transatlantic wireless transmission was received here by Guglielmo Marconi in an abandoned fever and Diphtheria hospital, which has since been destroyed by fire.^[1] The transmission originated from his Poldhu Wireless Station, Cornwall.

Now you know!

My friend Robyn and I started the run/hike at the bottom of the hill and worked our way up!

We followed the green line all the way around the hill, it's a fantastic trail, although there are a few scary parts where you sort of have to feel your way around a rock face with the ocean crashing beneath you! Makes for a better adventure.

Starting at the bottom really allows for a brutally painful run up the hill (which feels much more like a mountain) I had a couple sharp pains in my hamstring that I injured last May during a sprints drill but other than that I felt great... until the very top when my hamstring decided to spasm out. No biggie.

Looking out through the narrows of the harbour at the bottom of the hill.

It was a beautiful day and there wasn't a need for bulky clothing which was great! I needed the Vitamin D.

Blue Skies!

It was so great to get out and get some fresh air but let me tell you, these stairs can turn the most content individual into a sniveling whiny baby...

About halfway up after running two steps at a time I was pretty sure the lactic acid building up in my legs was just going to make my calfs explode into pieces, what? That happens, right?

Once we made it to the top a victory high five was in order and then commenced the wheezing, snotting and chugging of water. Beautiful. I should have gotten a picture of the view from the top but I was too busy sneezing and snotting. Which brings me to my next topic of conversation!

I have this issue after I run sometimes, I don't know why it happens or how to control it... no, I'm not talking runners trots...

About 50% of the time after I run outside I have huge fits of sneezing and a runny nose for anywhere from two hours to two days. I've questioned allergies but it happens all year round, not just pollen season. It's really a bummer and makes me think twice about taking my runs outside. Help!

Now, on to a couple products which have made my runs a little better recently.

Sharkies!

These are fantastic! First, there is something you should know, I love sharks and someday I will swim with them... it will happen. Now, onto the snack. I've never been one for Gu's or shot blocks or energy gels but these really helped. I ate half a pack before a 5 miler a few days ago and the rest of the pack before yesterdays Signal Hill run/hike. I didn't have any digestive problems and they taste great. The organic section at my grocery store only sells this flavor but I'm sure the others are just as great.

Sennheiser Headphones!

These bad girls just stay where they need to! The wires/cords are lengthened just right to wrap back around your neck and they come with a few different sized interchangeable rubber discs to create a custom fit in your ear! Perfection! I've got to thank the mister for this one, it was a good festivus last year.

Well I think that's enough yammering on for today, I'll leave you with my delicious dinner! YUM

Honey Sesame Chicken

Until next time,

Alanna.

Punk Rock Racing in the Park!

2010-03-21T19:47:00.000-02:30

Hi Everyone!

So, I know I'm a bad blogging gal and my posts are a little more than sporadic but the truth is you'd get pretty bored if all I wrote about were how my runs on the treadmill went and what happened on 'celebrity rehab' while I was trying to make it through mile 7 [kidding (sort of)] :)

Yesterday was the first day of Spring! While I didn't do anything to celebrate my wonderful mister went for a group ride with some people from Ordinary Spokes which is a bike collective here in my little city of St.John's. I can't wait to get out for a ride soon!

Picture taken by Matt from Newfoundland Fixed Gear.

And today I got out for my own celebration! I beautiful 6 mile run in the park. It was also the first chance I had gotten to try out the running hat Ron over at Punk Rock Tri Guy sent me, if you haven't read his blog you should, he gives the most hilarious race recaps you'll ever read. He has started up a great racing gear shop called Punk Rock Racing that you should really check out! I don't usually wear hats while running unless it's the middle of winter but this hat felt great, kept me cool and kept the sun out of my eyes! It also makes you feel just a little bit faster and badass.

I took this after my run and intentionally covered up my red, sweaty face. Note: Hat also good for going incognito!

It's a beautiful day and the park was so peaceful and calm. I expected to have to maneuver around a lot more people but I managed to show up around supper time while most people were at home enjoying a nice hot meal, you know... like normal people.

It was about 4 degrees celsius and the sun was shining, I maintained a pretty good pace and my body temp stayed fairly cool the entire time. I stopped to feed the duckies a tiny bit of feed I stuffed in my pocket before I left home and it didn't last long! They moved so fast I didn't get a chance to snap a photo but here is the pond.

I love my local park and keep meaning to take advantage of how close I live to it more often! It's a great place to get away in the middle of the city. I ran all over the park on all of the trails I could find but a lot of them still had snow patches where there was shade so I had to be extra careful but it was a fun little adventure!

It felt great to get out in the sun and run on some soft trails, I did notice the toll winter has taken on my legs, the treadmill just doesn't cut it when you're looking up from the bottom of a big ol' hill. Hopefully this will kick off a great season of training.

Happy Spring, have fun!

Alanna

Quick Update.

2010-01-30T10:55:00.000-03:30

Hello!

I haven't posted anything in a real long time, things have been a little hectic.

So, just a few things:

-I've been running consistantly but I can't say I've been embracing the elements. I've been sticking inside even though the weather has been pretty great. I need a kick in the bum!
-Plans for this coming summers bike trip is in the works, it's something to look forward to when the winter blues start to kick in.
-I'll be baking cupcakes for a Cupcake inspired art show comming up called "Get Baked!"

These guys mights make an appearance at the show along with lots of other glorious cupcake art!

Tiny Cheeseburger Cupcakes!

So, I promise to do a real update real soon!

Hope the new year is treating everyone well!

-Alanna

A Runners Wish List

2009-12-01T16:52:00.000-03:30

So, tis the season of giving and I thought why not make a post about some awesome gifts for any runners on your list.

When it comes to running we are a pretty minimal group of folk in comparison to other athletes and sports, with the exception of highly priced Gamins and designer running gear all we really need is our two legs and a pair of running shoes! (even that is up for debate)

But who says we can't be a little materialistic once in a while? There is lots of great stuff out there for runners from films, literature, gear and so on and I thought i'd make a little list of my own.

Yak Trax

I recently bought my own pair of these bad boys but haven't been able to use them yet due to the unusually mild weather we are receiving her in Newfoundland. But they seem like they are the answer to falling on the ice while you're out running. There are two versions of Yak Trax, 'walker' and 'pro'. The 'pro' version is more suited to running. I think these are a great gift for anyone on your list who lives in an area with snow and ice, they don't have to be a runner! No one likes to slip and fall on their bum.

Born to Run

This is a fantastic read for anyone who is interested in the running of other cultures. Christopher McDougal studies the Tarahumara tribe who run incredible distances without being any worse for wear at the end.

Recovery Socks

I personally don't own a pair of these socks but I have read countless blogs that praise them and talked to a few runners who say they can't do without them now. You can wear them while running or after a long tough run to decrease recovery time, and they also come in a nifty green color :)

Spirit of the Marathon

I also do not own this film, maybe this is just my personal wish list, teehee. But, I have seen the trailer and every time I watch it, it makes me want to run my bum off. I bet it's a pretty good flick.

The Runners Rule Book

I would love to read this. There is a chapter on "Hitting the Wall", 'nough said.

A Running Gift Basket

These are kind of neat, but it would also be just as easy and a nice personal gift to put one together yourself! Go to your local run shop or outdoors store and pick up some energy gels, socks, body glide, a new runner's world, and whatever other running nic nacks they might have!

Those are just a few ideas!

Now, if only I could start my own Christmas shopping but alas I must prepare for my presentatin in the morning!

Take care,
Alanna.

The Green Monster.

2009-11-21T19:33:00.000-03:30

Hello all!

So, something big has happened...
It's big.
It's green.
It's powerful.
It's intimidating.
It's DELICIOUS!

It's the Green Monster, and I recently worked up the courage to mix one up for myself and down it. It's the perfect running fuel and I love it. Mix one for youself!

This one consisted of:
-1 large handful spinach
-1 banana
-1/2 honey crisp apple
-1 cup vanilla almond milk
-1 large dollop vanilla yogurt

This seemed like the safest combo for a newb like me. om nom nom!

So, the winter running has yet to commence but I did receive my Yak Trax in the mail and am dying to try them out.
Not that I'm complaining, I'm very content with the dry roads and mild-ish days. I've gotten some great long runs in and my coldout tights have been keeping me comfy and cozy!

The next organized run I have coming up is a Resolution run on New Years Eve. Should be a fun 5k and a great way to end a year of great running, even if I didn't get in as much running as I would have liked.

That's all for now,
Alanna

ps: This cracks me up!

Winter Running

2009-10-24T20:46:00.000-02:30

Hello!

So, it's that time again. Everyone is talking about the end of the season, and I still feel like it hasn't really started. It wasn't an overly successful season for me and I only ran a couple races. With the combination of the summer university semester and working a full time research position I was left with a lot less running time than I would have liked. Not to mention I was trying to incorporate cycling into my schedule and train for a small 10 day bike tour.

So, I am left feeling like I still have a lot of road running left in me before I am banished to the mill. That being said, I have decided to run outside this winter... gasp! For a lot of runners in warmer climates this might not seem like anything out of the ordinary, I on the other hand long for the luxury of being able to run and cycle 365 days a year. Unfortunately I live in very beautiful yet VERY cold province, where the winter weather always wins and I end up running inside, or not at all. I don't have the nerve yet to attempt to cycle outside (plus I actually really enjoy spin class) but I am going to tackle winter, head on.

In preparation of this new venture I've made a couple purchases:

Descente Cherryvale Hoodie

Descente Coldout Run Tights

I love MEC!

I'm hoping these two pieces will substantially help me stay comfortable along with the other run clothing I have.

My main worry however is staying off my ass.

I'm not sure how to dress my feet. From what I've read wool socks and regular running shoes should do the trick but how do I stop from slipping all over the place? After searching around the tubes I've come across YakTrax. These things seem perfect! There is even a video of people running around with them on an ice rink. I'm a little worried about them hurting my feet after a few miles but it'll hurt a lot more wiping out on the ice, which i'll most definitely do. :)

Whatever it takes, I will get out there and run!

There is it, my mission statement.
I know I still have a lot to learn about winter running and it might kick my ass but I'm going to at least try.

Happy Halloween all! (my 'Thriller MJ' pumpkin and I)

Enjoy the fall season while it lasts!

-Alanna.

Think Pink.

2009-10-05T18:01:00.000-02:30

Hi!

Sorry for the delay in posting since my first post. I've been a busy bee with the start of a new university semester. But even with all the stress of new classes, text books the price of two months groceries, trying to figure out grad school plans in my head and trying to dodge every first year who sneezes without covering their schnoz I have been running semi regularly, which is a plus.

Yesterday morning I ran the Run for the Cure 5k.

It was a great little 5k and I set a new PR at just under 25 minutes, and for a great cause! Although it was cold and drizzly and I haven't been able to stop sneezing since. That's something that happens to me quite often after a run, I sneeze, a lot. Anyone else?

I recently finished "Born to Run: A hidden tribe, superathletes, and the greatest race the world has never seen" by Christopher McDougall.

I loved it!

I wont say too much about it but it certainly made me want to try out some ultra running some time in the future, the very distant future.

Alright, I'm going to keep this sort simply because I should be studying. I do however plan to write some longer 'themed' blogs, maybe on runners lingo, trends, and of course... injuries.

- Alanna

The new girl.

2009-09-14T16:45:00.000-02:30

Hello!

So, writing an initial blog entry is somewhat intimidating but lets keep it simple. I had been thinking for a long time about starting a blog for the sole purpose of having a running log with a little flair, but I’ve never been good at keeping a running log, so that idea didn’t last. After looking around the blog ‘world’ a little bit I realized the blogs I enjoyed reading the most were combination blogs, blogs about several different topics, but not too many so that it really just turns into a bunch of unrelatable personal clutter. So my blog will consist of a combination of my adventures in running, cycling and baking.

Cycling
This past Spring I purchased my first ‘adult’ bike. My boyfriend (and partner in crime) had purchased a Giant FCR2 and started riding for the sake of it, not just commuting. After hearing about his day trips around the province and a little push from him to get a bike of my own I decided I would. After buying a couple of second hand bikes that either turned out to be junk or just didn’t feel comfortable I purchased my very own new bike, the Giant FCR 3.

We took a bike trip along the Irish Loop just a couple of weeks ago and it went wonderfully, aside from a couple of hitches with my gears which Hughie (the boyfriend) quickly fixed and got out of the way. More about that later.

Running
Oh running. Mine and running’s relationship has been a long, bumpy, painful, wonderful, fulfilling road. If you yourself have or have had a relationship with this demanding and moody vixen you’ll know that she expects a lot out of her partner and if you plan on having a long lasting relationship with her you better be ready to give her everything you’ve got. That everything includes your free time, you social life, your mornings, your evenings, your muscles, your joints, your toenails, your sanity, and so on. But if you’ve ever filled up your Ipod with songs you’d roll over and die of embarrassment if anyone knew you were listening to them (we’ve all got them), tied up your running shoes, took a few breaths of excited anticipation and ran until your couldn’t feel your legs anymore then you know that while running can be a cold bitch, when things are good, they’re really good. She has the potential to make you feel like you’ve never felt before, like you and her could take on the world… and win.
That being said, I get injured. I get injured a lot. My feet turn in when I run, I get excited and push too hard, I hit pot holes at the wrong angle and twist the way I didn’t know possible, I heal spike when I run down hills, I can’t blame her… I have to work on my own issues for our relationship to work.

I took some time away from running and about two years ago started running seriously, sporadically but seriously. This past summer I trained for a half and it was great.

Baking
I’ve always loved baking. Even before I could bake I would watch my grandmother bake and love the way all those plain ol’ ingredients could make such a delicious and beautiful dessert.
I love cooking and baking just about anything but Cupcakes is where my heart is. I love the way they look, the way they taste and all the different things you can do with them.
There isn’t much else to say about baking really. I love it.

It makes me happy and in the back of my head there is this idea that if the whole academics thing doesn’t work out that maybe someday I could own a little bakery of my very own, and if I can’t have a bakery I’ll still bake the best cookies in the neighborhood. lol

So, this seems a little all over the place but hopefully I’ll find some clarity in my upcoming entries.
I’ll be keeping track of my progress with cycling, what I learn, and all the things along the way that come up when you start to incorporate something new into your life. I’ll rant and ramble about running, my daily runs, any races and all new injuries that occur, because they will. And I’ll post pictures of my baking adventures so we can all drool in front of our screens, teehee.

Until next time!