I am absolutely feeling the squiggly line going up and up and up. Too many vacations and parties! It’s time to get back on the salad train and lighten things up a bit. The good news is our weather is looking nice!
My vow to Mazen (and myself) this spring is I’m planning to take him outside every afternoon for at least 30 minutes so we can both run around. I’m hoping this little addition will keep us both healthy!
Hi French toast! Long time, no see. That would be IRISH SODA French toast! The best. Topped with sunbutter and served with orange.
Next up we have yogurt in a jar with lots of fruit (berries, banana) and some leftover hot oatmeal. A fun combo!
Keeping the variation going in breakfast, the next morning I had scrambled eggs with toast and jam and seared banana. Coffee in the ole mug.
Look at this beauty!! Whipped banana chia seed oatmeal with a puddle of Wild Friends nut butter drizzled on top. Takes me back to the good old days of oatmeal every day.
And last but not least, berry smoothie (shared with Mazen) plus some of the Cinnamon Chip Gluten X with melty buttah.
S: Soccer game – freezing cold in drizzling rain with no subs!! I played the entire game without a break on the bench and was pre-ty sore the next day : ) Had a great shot on goal too, but no goal yet…
M: Met a friend for a 30 minute walk downtown. A nice little bit of activity on rest day.
T: Around-the-world style at the gym. A little stairmaster, a little walking, a little lower body lifting. I did one of Erin’s routines and felt sufficiently tired when I went down to shower!
W: Athletic conditioning class that left my back and shoulders really sore the next day. We did less running than usual but lots of jumping and a fair amount of weights.
TH: Kettle bells class. Usually I plan a lighter workout the day after AC, but I was feeling like I needed a challenge so I went anyways. This was kind of a mistake because kettle bells always hurt me! I think I tweaked a part of my shoulder, so I won’t be going back to the class for a while, as much as I like it.
F: Cardio with BH&G and then upper body lifting with Erin. We modified and skipped any shoulder exercises but my shoulder actually felt pretty good.
SA: Rain all day, so I went to the gym late and did a quick cardio workout – light anticipating my soccer game on Sunday that ended up getting canceled due to more rain : (
I can’t wait to walk and run outside again!!!!!!
On to the lunch portion of the day –
First up was leftover split pea soup smothered in yogurt. I just love the combo of yogurt and hot savory creamy foods.
It’s been a while Mr. Sardine! Smoked sardine salad with carrots and celery mixed with curry powder, mustard, mayo and Greek yogurt. Served with toasty Irish Soda bread.
Mazen and I shared a box of mac and cheese for lunch one day. I added broccoli, peas and carrots for veggies. He liked it, but he didn’t love the macaroni. You’d think he would find it as delicious as I did! He did eat the broccoli…
Leftover panko cod from our Cook Smarts dinner turned into a fish taco with avocado, cheese, greens and yogurt. SO GOOD!
And more leftover fish – this time over a mixed salad with Dutch gouda, avocado and greens.
Sunday night dinner was roasted herby chicken with a big pan of roasted broccoli, mushrooms and carrots. Tuscan sourdough bread on the side.
And our Cook Smarts menu for the week!
M: Fish Sandwich with Kale Chips. You’re speaking my language Jess! The panko fish was SO good! Loved the homemade tartar sauce too. Bun was from Whole Foods for a change.
Mazen crunched his first kale chip!
T: Taco Salads!! With beef, jalapenos, cheese and loads of yoga-mole. This meal was waaaay bigger than it looks and I was uncomfortably stuffed when it was over.
W: Skillet Chicken with chard and salsa over roasted potatoes. This was a recipe we might not have otherwise made, but we both really liked it!
TH: Breakfast Burritos with black beans and egg. Topped with cheese and yogurt. Plus a tomato side salad.
foodandfarm says
Did you make the herby chicken yourself or buy it already marinated. I have some chicken (and herbs) I need to use up before this spring!
KathEats says
We buy it already marinated at the Organic Butcher. I just love their blend. It’s a lot of rosemary and thyme (I think)
Katie says
Everything looks delicious. Love the video of Mazen eating the kale chip. Do you find that Mazen is pretty willing to try new foods or does it take some convincing or encouragement? 30 minutes outside is a great goal to have that will certainly keep you both healthy in many ways. Just being outdoors playing (or working) together is so beneficial for families. I will be walking my kids to and from school today (and everyday that we can) now that the weather is nicer. A perfect way for us to spend time and be healthy together!
KathEats says
It’s really hit or miss!! Some days he’ll willingly try anything and other days he takes once glance and says “NO!” so I just keep offering with hope!
Melanie says
You’ve really inspired me to venture into the world of nut butters – they are so appealing! But so far it’s slow going for me. I really feel like all the “commercial” peanut butter I grew up on ruined my taste for what a natural nut butter is supposed to taste like! I can’t get past the fact that it’s not sweet and something is jarring about tasting the nut oils so prominently – sometimes I swear I detect a little rancidity, but I’m sure it’s just because it’s something I’m not used to. It’s like I need to taper down gradually, the same way I did with 2% milk to skim (now I can only handle skim!). Any suggestions on brands/ways for adjusting? Thanks!!
KathEats says
I think you need to keep looking for the right one! I have a list of favorites here. Almond and sunflower butters tend to be a little bit sweeter. The Whole Foods 365 Almond Butter is one of my favorites with no added sugars. I do add a generous pinch of kosher salt to my jar – it amps up the flavor and brings out the natural sweetness. I also don’t think it’s a big deal to have a little bit of cane sugar in your nut butters. 1 tablespoon usually has like 1 gram of sugar which is negligible in the amounts you’d eat nut butter (it’s 4 calories of the 100 in a tablespoon- most of the calories come from good fats).
Melanie says
Thanks, Kath! I will start trying those and also give the cane sugar addition whirl!
KathEats says
The most important thing is that you’re away from the trans-fats – there is nothing good about those! – and onto a more natural path.
Kaila @healthyhelperblog! says
Peas are a must for mac and cheese!! Delicious!!
Chelsea @ Designs on Dinner says
I, too, love topping mostly every hot meal with yogurt: soup, burritos, lasagna. Curry just isn’t the same without a big scoop of plain Greek yogurt. Your post has inspired me to make some kale chips again. Can’t wait to find them at the farmer’s market!
Katie @ Peace Love & Oats says
I like the idea of getting outside for 30 minutes every day. I’m hoping now that it’s slowly warming up here in Chicago to walk a mile each evening when I don’t already have something going on after work. Definitely a nice way to end the day!
Jeri says
My goal is to ride my bike every day when it stops raining. My pilates studio is down the street from the ocean front. So why not ride from there to the end of the boardwalk and back? Plus I am now finding more people who actually want to go biking with me.
s/n: Pilates instructor said he is starting to see the weight loss. I was so happy that I celebrated with a skinny iced coffee instead of ice cream like I used to do.
Jeri says
Ooh one more thing. One day can you do a “lesson” on salt/sodium intake? I had issue with “pms” last month before my weigh-in. They told me at first sign to try and cut out any extra salt intake. But I’ve also heard so many things about the different salts vs table salt and needing iodine that I am so confused now. Thanks.
KathEats says
Sure that’s a good topic. In a nutshell, watch out for high sodium processed foods like chicken broth, beans, canned soups and olives. Use a sea salt or kosher salt when cooking instead of iodized table salt, which has such a small surface area so it’s easy to over-do. Try to cut back on salting your food at the table too – most recipes call for enough in the recipe.
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
If he’s loving the veggies more than the macaroni, doesn’t sound like a bad thing! 😉
Ali says
I love that the weather is getting nicer and outside is now an option on most days. I think Aiden and I will have so much fun running around out there together! I see many trips to the park in our future.
Kavi says
I think my squiggly line has been trending updwards too! Your post is a good reminder to be more cognizant of what I’m eating. We’ve had a streak of 50 degree weather here in Chicago (that’s warm for us!) so I’m trying to get more exercise in as well.
Hannah @ eat, drink, and save money says
I’m always so jealous of your breakfasts. I have the hardest time getting mine together while entertaining and cooking for my 11 month old. He is just now getting to the point where he will entertain himself while I cook. I hope to make eggs again one day! You give me hope that I can cook and manage a child. Thanks 🙂
Kathleen Ojo says
I’m slowly but surely converting everyone I know to the cult of Trader Joe’s Sunflower Butter. So, soooo good. I’m also mighty jealous of that fish sandwich! I’m gluten free and happy about it most of the time, but every so often I get a mad craving for a sandwich on a big fluffy roll (not a strangely textured GF one).
Marisa @ Uproot from Oregon says
Wild Squirrel nut butter is now Wild Friends! I have the chocolate almond/sunflower seed at my desk for my oats 🙂
KathEats says
I always forget the name! I will always think of squirrels : )
Ali says
Hi Kath – I’ve been noticing that you have been putting yogurt on everything lately! Why yogurt and not something like sour cream? Is there a big difference in nutritional value for the dollops or do you just enjoy the flavor combinations better? I eat plain yogurt for breakfast often but cannot fathom putting it on top of savory dishes (one exception being very select Indian dishes).
KathEats says
I just never have sour cream on hand, so it’s easier to just buy one package instead of two. The yogurt I buy tastes like sour cream to me (Snowville Creamery full fat) so I can barely tell a difference!
Jackie says
I love the variation with breakfast you had! I often get stuck in a rut!
Kelly says
Mazen is just SO CUTE!!! His hair looks red in that video!!!
Emily @ It Comes Naturally Blog says
Mmm..it all looks so yummy and has left me fancying some soda bread!
Emily @ Life on Food says
Now that the weather is better I have been much more active into the evening and getting outside more. Love it!
Rebekah {aCricketSang} says
Mmmmm kale chips!
simple green moms says
looks like another great week! =) love the idea of adding veggies to mac n cheese!!
Elizabeth {Positively Healthy} says
Such a cute video of Mazen! 🙂 Loving all the meals and the variety!
Veronica says
I think it’s a great goal to get out for 30 minutes in the afternoon.
Have you every thought about getting a dog? I wasn’t a dog person until I got one, but now I get at least an hour of walking in a day, just because he is a high energy breed. The only downside is the 4-5 months per year when it’s either cold or rainy and he still wants to go out. But even then I know it’s good for me not to sit inside all winter!
KathEats says
The cold + rainy days are why I don’t want one : ) And I’m feeling like I have my hands full right now, but I agree dogs are great for encouraging outdoor walking : )
jen says
Agreed! I’ve always been a dog person, but after having kids it’s amazing how much the dogs feel like they make so much hair and extra work. Crawling baby and dog hair = yuck! Vacuuming twice a day = yuck! Dogs licking up dropped food under highchair = okay, I confess, that one us awesone as far as I’m concerned. But, After these two dogs we’ll be happily dog free until the kids are much older.
Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says
Oh my gosh, is Mazen’s hair trending red as he grows?!
I think I’m changing breakfast for tomorrow morning, those eggs and toast looked good!
Leah @ goodnightcheese says
I also can’t wait to go outside! Though the weather will be so nice you might not be able to get him inside after a half hour, haha.
Melissa says
Too.much.cuteness in that video 🙂
Keep offering – I think every kid goes through a picky stage, I know my 5 year old did, but now, she at least TRIES everything. We cooked squash, zucchini and asparagus the other night on the grill. She knows the drill – at least try it before you turn it down. I wouldn’t MAKE her eat anything, of course. She tried the squash – nope. Zucchini? Nope! Asparagus? LOVED it! Go figure! She’s an adventurous eater too though.
Tracy says
Mmmm Irish Soda bread is one of the best things about St Pat’s Day!
I have a feeling Mazen will warm up to mac n cheese eventually 😉
Keeley says
Hi Kath!
Happy to see you’ve been eating our nut butters! Just a friendly reminder that we changed our name and can now be found at Wild Friends Nut Butter (wildfriendsfoods.com).
Thanks! Have a great Wednesday 🙂
Keeley
KathEats says
Hi Keeley! Yes I’m so sorry. I have changed the text and updated the link. My brain has trouble because the squirrels were so cute!
Shel@PeachyPalate says
Lots of variety!! Looking forward to trying sardines and possibly chicken this week! Your meals never fail to elicit a craving/yearning! Ground Organic Grass fed Beef went down WELL in burger form! Definitely got to try one of your meatball recipes soon!
KathEats says
: )
Jennie says
What type of boxed macaroni and cheese do you buy? Thanks for a great post!
KathEats says
Annie’s brand
Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs says
I’m with you on the upward squiggly line — this week is all about refocusing! 🙂
Tess @ Tips on Healthy Living says
Wow, your meals look amazing– especially your breakfasts! That’s the one meal I tend to skip, but it really is the most important.
Alex @ Kenzie Life says
I’ve been savoring the last of my own irish soda bread. It’s just *so* good! I’ve been craving oatmeal lately, which is strange for me since the weather is warming up, but some apple cinnamon with a little drizzle of peanut butter just seems to hit the spot for a sweet craving or snack! Have a great one, Kath!
Lauren says
Do you feel that 30 minutes is enough time for a child to be outdoors? I would like to have more time inside to do things around the house, but my kids want and need to be outside and in parks for hours every day. Do you think Mazen will resist only 30 minutes? How do you get him back in the stroller when he does not want to go back inside?
KathEats says
Oh I don’t mean 30 minutes and that’s it – I just mean a least 30 minutes (between rain showers or before nap). Most days when he goes outside we’re out for an hour or more. It is hard to get him to leave the playground after any amount of time.
Lisa @bitesforbabies says
Love that video of Mazen enjoying his kale chips!! Too cute! Have you tried them with dill? I always add fresh dill to mine…it adds a pop of flavour without adding salt!
http://www.bitesforbabies.com/recipes/dill-pickle-kale-chips/
KathEats says
No I havent! Sounds incredible!
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves says
These Cook Smarts meals always look so dang delicious! I’m also diggin’ Mazen’s kale chip goatee 😉
Your workouts sound awesome too. I’m stoked to watch you in action on Sunday! And maybe see your first goal?? 😉
KathEats says
: ) I ALMOST had one last week – hoping this week is the one!
Alex Caspero MA,RD (@delishknowledge) says
That Irish soda bread french toast with sun-butter looks amazing! I love seeing all of your salad combos- I’m on the same boat with you… too many squiggle lines going up, up, up 🙂
Hannah @ Sprints & Scones says
Your Lately posts always give me inspiration for the next week. LOVE them 🙂
KathEats says
Yay thank you!
Beth says
From time to time, we make our 2 year old Annie’s Organic Whole Wheat Shells and I make it with yogurt instead of milk and he loves it that way. If I don’t use yogurt or get macaroni instead, he’s not into it. As a yogurt lover, have you tried it? Better nutrition and super creamy. I also throw in lots of veggies and he thinks it’s so funny when the peas get stuck inside the shells. I might also share the box with him now and again. 🙂
KathEats says
No but that’s a great idea!