The joys of running and cooking

What a busy day!  I woke up this morning prepared for a non-stop adventure.  And amazingly, despite the rainy weather, I was in a great mood. Once I got Marsella to school 15 minutes late, I headed to the gym for a run on the treadmill.  It was pretty wet outside when I woke up so that’s why I opted for a visit to the gym.  Every time I run on the treadmill though, I am reminded how much I enjoy outdoor running.  There really is nothing compared to the great outdoors.  Being able to feel the freezing air on my face, hear the leaves crush under my feet, and greet the familiar faces of other runners is just amazing.  Nothing compares.   After I finished my run, I squeezed in a couple upper body exercises before I braved the grocery store.

 I had no idea how busy the grocery store got during the holidays!  Seriously, it’s just ridiculous!!  Christmas dinner is a week away but I believe everyone and their mother is attempting to get a head-start.  I ran in to pick up all I needed for the soups I was preparing today.  I made a Potato and Garlic soup and a Creamy Broccoli with Dill soup (from The Complete Vegan Cookbook).  The potato soup was specifically for two mommies that needed some extra help this season so I didn’t make any for us here at home.  Once I got home, I whipped us up some of the Broccoli soup.  My roommate seemed to enjoy it but honestly I felt like I had just thrown up in my mouth.  I know this is gross but everyone knows about that after-taste.  *gag*  I will never make that soup again!  I am just so thankful I prepared the Potato & Garlic soup for the church families today.  I feel like I spent all day in the kitchen but it was worth it.  I especially love being able to deliver a wonderful vegan soup to families that probably enjoy meat at least once a day.  To be able to share my love of a meat-free, dairy-free diet is wonderful.  I only hope that I not only can help others but that others will also realize that not every meal has to include animal products.

Back to running - Sunday is the free Holiday run put on by Fleet Feet.  It will be my friend’s first organized race.  I just know he will be addicted once he crosses that finish line!  This run was my first back in 2007.  I can’t believe I’ve been at this for three years.  Though I have encountered many ups and downs, these legs still carry me through!