Random Bits & Pieces

I wasn't able to post yesterday because I was TIRED! Woody and I got on the list to see David Gray perform at an auditorium in the Financial District as part of the PBS series - Live From The Artists Den Monday night. It was an awesome show and I'm so glad we went! He played for almost two hours straight - hits and songs from his new album Draw The Line that came out last fall. We saw him perform at the Beacon Theatre last winter, to a sold out crowd of 2800 people. Tuesday night, there were 500 people at most. It's so great to see fantastic artists in small venues. The vibe is so intense and the music even more beautiful. The episode will air this spring. If you haven't seen the series yet, check your local listings to see when it'll be on. They put great artists in interesting venues and the production quality is fantastic.

Today marks one year since I had my surgery. Again, I am incredibly thankful for my health, my supportive family and friends and all the things I've accomplished in the last year. I look forward to feeling even better a year from now and for the opportunity to follow my dreams and to have the time and ability to set goals for myself that I will accomplish!

Last night I made kale again. Yep. I think I may be addicted to it. This time it was a simple idea I threw together, not knowing how it would turn out. It turned out pretty well though, if I say so myself. While I steamed the kale, I diced a large sweet potato and baked in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning half way through. After 15 minutes I drained the kale, added in the potatoes, a bunch of cherry tomatoes and garlic. Kept that over heat for a few more minutes and then served up with a few pine nuts on top (I had no idea pine nuts are so expensive!).

I'm participating in a Post Holiday Cookie Swap, hosted by Steph over at Steph Chows, and received a package in the mail from Lisa (we were paired because we have the same name!) who lives in Napa! Lisa is the first person I've met who lives in Napa, so it's been cool getting to know her through our emails. She's a fitness instructor who loves the outdoors, backpacking, birdwatching, enjoying nature and living healthfully. She and her fiance are busy planning their March wedding and building a house! She sent me these great bite size cookies. Woody and I had to try them last night. Soooo good! I'll be sending her some cookies on Monday (I'll be baking over the weekend) and will show you the results. We agreed to keep the number of cookies exchanged on the low side and make them a bit healthier than the normal cookie. I LOVE the challenge!

I also participated in a gift exchange hosted by Morning Runner and Tall Mom, which was lots of fun. I met Alisa, who lives in Portland (another west coaster!). She's a tri-athlete and a great inspiration. Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures to share, because we ate the oranges (from her family's backyard) before I could get the camera out! She also sent me a bag of Moosemunch (Harry & David is a Washington company). Great stuff.... we just have to be good about not eating it all at once! If you haven't read these three blogs, go check them out!

I added jumping rope to my workout this morning! It has literally been over a decade since I jumped rope last, but I know it's a great workout, so I've decided to add it to my list of fitness goals for 2010. Woody gave me a jump rope for Christmas, so I broke it out this morning before I got on the elliptical for 55 minutes. Started out a little rough, but I got one series going that lasted 44 jumps and another that lasted 86 (with shorter ones between). Not too bad for my first time, I don't think! It got my heartbeat going right away and I could really feel it affecting all my muscles, even my core when I pulled in my stomach muscles. I feel like I have more energy this morning than most! I'll add this to my routine on Tuesday and Thursday for now, adding a third day in a few weeks. Is jumping rope part of your routine?

Okay, off to work. I hope you all have a great Thursday!!