That Crazy Sweet Potato Lady

Well, Snow Day numero dos (2.5?) is now coming to a close, and I’m spending it lounging on my sofa watching “The Biggest Loser” as it snows some more over the D.C. area.

El Nino, seriously- what is your deal?

I was actually pretty busy today- not exactly a relaxing day off of work being lazy. This was primarily because when faced with the possibility of being snowed in yet again after having  already  been bombarded with snow,  people suddenly begin to feel a little paranoid, and that includes m-e. Or so I’ve noticed at least. I’ve launched into full out survivor mode. It’s like every task has some emergency feeling attached, and your pantry has to be filled to the brim, immediately, before we’re all stuck snowed in again for God knows how long. And, as a result, I’ve become the crazy sweet potato lady.

Meh..

Let me explain. So, I love me a good sweet potato, probably more than the average girl. It’s on my list of fav foods, right below pancakes I would say. It’s that important to me. As a result, when I don’t have a good stock in my kitchen, I literally get a little nervous and feel the need to restock. Considering the state of the weather around here, I’ve gotten extra hoarder-ish with my food supply, hence my feeling of urgency for picking up another bag of taters this evening at Trader Joe’s.

But listen, I’ve got a bone to pick with YOU, Trader Joe: Why the so small sweet potatoes? Where’s the love? Some of the guys in the bags at the store are literally teh size of my thumb. Who could eat that and be satisified?! I want a sweet potato teh size of my head, and while we’re at Joe, how’s about you give me the ability to select whatever and how ever many sweet potatoes I want, like you do with the Yukon Gold variety? One word- discrimination.

Okay.. potato rant over. This is why I’m not allowed to be shut-in for excessive chunks of time due to foul weather; I go stir crazy.

As I mentioned though, I was out and about today, plunging through the snow, decked out like the Marshmallow Puff Woman. Homegirl’s from Las Vegas- I don’t mess around with cold weather. In other words I’ve routinely been wearing two pairs of socks and three layers of sweaters under my parka and earmuffs. Yes, I’m that girl, in a sea of people wearing a Northface fleece and galoshes. To each their own, right?

The weathermen had forecasted snow starting around noon today, so I got up supa early to hit the gym. Now, as you may recall, I’d mentioned a couple weeks ago that I decided to freeze my gym membership before i moved here. Well, as of  yesterday afternoon, I have unfrozen it, and I’m very happy about that decision. It’s too darn cold to be running outside for me; running, in my opinion, is supposed to be a happy experience and something I look forward to, and I do NOT enjoy being out in the cold. No ma’am. I’d been utilizing my work’s gym for the past couple of weeks, but they have awkward hours and are closed when, well, the federal government’s closed and fyi- that’s pretty often lately. I’d missed getting my sweat on regularly, so even though I don’t really like the gym itself all that much, I’m glad to have a fully functioning (and heated) gym at my disposal now.

Walking back home to shower before my errands today (like my TJ run), I discovered that snow now comes in a variety of colors.

Greeeeen!

I’ve also seen blue and pink… Apparently the salt to melt the snow now comes in a Crayola pack of colors. Kind of awesome.

Anyways, I was out literally the whole day, til dinner time, so I was pooped and starving. I had bought some ground turkey at TJ’s to make a new recipe, but decided to save that recipe for manana. I instead had a simple roast beef and roasted pepper sandwich, accompanied by a brocc/cauliflower mix and itty, bitty sweet potatoes (duh).  Unpictured, so sorry!

This may have been the most random post I’ve compiled yet.. but there you have it. I’ll be back tomorrow with not one but TWO cooking projects, as I have yet another snow day (!) to play in my apartment as it continues to snow. Have a happy night!

A Two Potato Sort of Day

Happy Monday you all!!

I have today off from work because the federal government is closed due to the D.C. blizzard. So if you need me or President Obama, we’re on vacay, obviously.

Just thought I send out a little HELLO from the snowy banks of your nation’s capital.

I had serious cabin fever yesterday, so I decided to venture out and explore. It had finally stopped snowing, so Sunday seemed like a good time to get a nice walk in. It was a little tricky, but so gorgeous. At first I wasn’t sure if my idea to take a walk around twon would actually work out- the snow was up against my apartment building door and you could barely trudge down the stairs on my porch.

I decided to head about mile down Massachusetts Avenue to CVS to print some pics and get a couple of essentials for a Valentine’s gift for pen pal (top secret- details to be disclosed after V-Day.. I’m sure you understand!), and then to the bookstore. The snow drifts are almost as tall as I am you guys- and I’m 5 ft tall! It was kind of surreal to observe D.C. in this state, with people in their parkas, ambling along in the middle of the street alongside the few cars brave enough to attempt the roads.

Let’s just say walking around was sort of like being on an Arctic obstacle course. I kept sinking into snowy holes, and there was basically one path on every street to plow through in single file line behind the other people wandering about.

I actually got a ton done yesterday! I even picked up some more juice and (soy) milk, since the weatherman predicts more snow manana. (!)

By the time I’d gotten back to my apartment, it was perfect timing to relax with some more  of the “I Love Lucy” marathon (she carried a 25 lb hunk of cheese on a plane, masquerading it as a newborn- I was dying), get hardcore domestic and vacuum/dust my apartment, and  worked on my top secret V-day project in between cooking up din.

Dinner, my friends, was just a grilled chicken breast with some broccoli and cauliflower, preceded by a lovely little salad dressed in TJ’s balsamic vinegarette. I usually only use balsamic vinegar, but this dressing’s pretty tasty in small doses.

Romaine with tomato and roasted peppers.

Bad cell phone pic, lo siento.

Oh, and because it was just one of those days, I had not one, but two of my beloved sweet potatoes.

Yes, that was not a typo. I ate two potatoes last night, mostly because a. I love them, and b. the ones form Trader Joe’s are  each about the size of my ear, and I like extra large sweet potatoes. Don’t skimp on my yams, people.

I’m off to wrangle up some breakfast- I’m haaangry this morning, before heading out for some errands I would usually be unable to do during the week. And maybe a little gym time?

Have a great day loveys!

Snowtorious B.I.G.

That, my bloggie friends, is the view from my bedroom window. I used to be able to see my street and creep on my neighbors across from me, but no more. Now just a blanket of white.

We got almost 3o inches! It just stopped snowing about an hour so ago. Someone needs to tell Mother Nature or El Nino or WHOEVER to chill the heck out. It’s now freeeezing (not that I’ve been out of my cozy apartment at all today), and supposed to be snow a teensy bit more on Tuesday.

I was majorly productive today though, woo!

Let’s see… I did a boatload of laundry, worked on a Valentine’s gift for pen pal (who’s coming Thursday!), cleaned up my room and organized my closet which was basically a disaster zone since I’d arrived a few weeks ago, did a little more reading, and watched a fantastic I Love Lucy marathon- love her!

I also decided to try and be more active than just the occassional up and down from the sofa to the kitchen, so I brought out the beast.

You know, I’m far more in favor of working out outside or in a gym or… anywhere that’s not my apartment… but this 30 Day Shred dvd is great in a pinch. The only thing that drives me nuts is Jillian’s facial expressions. Anyone else notice how it sort of looks like someone had advised her to look friendlier she should try that ol’ “make love to the camera” suggestion… but it instead ends up looking like she wants to maul you from your t.v. screen?

Maybe that was just my interpretation..

Anyways…

I decided since I was stuck indoors, I’d take this evening to actually cook something new and different. I decided to make some peanutty noodles and tofu, and it actually came out surprisingly good!

I used brown rice spaghetti noodles from Trader’s Joe’s, as well as pre-seasoned savory tofu because, well, cooking tofu makes me very nervous after a failed attempt last year that tasted like white death, pre blogging days.

I made a quick peanut sauce with:

~ 1 tbsp + 1 tsp of peanut butter

~ 1 tbsp soy sauce

~ dash of sugar

~ cap-full of lemon juice

The recipe I used was based thinly off of a mix of Ellie Krieger’s peanut sauce, and this one, but portioned down for una chica.

I think I could have used a tiny bit less soy sauce, and a little bit more sugar. Otherwise, pretty good! I couldn’t find a small enough saucepan, so I put the ingredients in a little tupperware and microwaved for 30 seconds before adding to a skillet of sauteing tofu and veggies- brussel sprouts, onions, mushrooms, snap peas, and brocc, as well as the cooked noodles. And it was vegan, to boot.

(Ignore the tacky blackberry quality photo- camera’s d-e-a-d.)

Me gusta! I’m not going to lie, I’m pretty impressed with myself for doing this, even if I do think the recipe could benefit from a few tweaks. Although really, I’m impressed anytime I do something more elaborate than scramble eggs or flip a pancake in the kitchen. Baking doesn’t count here.

BUT, there’s the unpleasant part leftover to deal with- the pan.

Ewwww.

Things got a little too sticky. And burnt. Few noodles got left behind in the process… Meh. That’s soaking now… for who knows how long.

Now I’m looking for something sweet to balance it all out- know of any chocolate shops that deliver in the D.C. area during a blizzard??

I’m off to watch some Saturday night t.v., which , to be honest, I have no idea what is on during a Saturday night. SNL maybe later? Hope you’re all having a fab night! Catch all tomorrow, hopefully more defrosted…

SNOWmageddon

Oh heeeey- it’s me, that pancake-eating blogger that keeps falling off the planet the last month? Hi! Nice to see you all again! I hope you aren’t all toooo mad at me.. I’ve been trying to situate myself in this new chapter of my life, and the growing pains didn’t leave much blogging time, or at least not for the quality blog posts I like to leave you all with.

So if you could see me, I’d be on my hands and knees begging for your forgiveness. Don’t make me go on a pancake-strike… Things will get ugly.

BUT ANYWAYS, here I am, enjoying the lovely temperate D.C. weather and working the 9am-6pm gig day in, day out. Oh wait, something about that statement is incorrect.

That was my street last weekend.

This was the Capitol on my snowy walk home from work today, at NOON.

What did we learn from those two photos? Oh that’s right, that the people who told me D.C.’s weather was mild were FIBBING. It’s  flippin’ cold, and has been snowing- a LOT.

This weekend in particular is supposed to be CRAZY. Apparently D.C. is about to pummeled with snow from Mother Nature, with almost 30 inches threatened by the weathermen around town, all of whom seem to get some sort of twisted joy out of having some big blizzard to spice up their usual newscast.

The words SNOWpacolypse, Snow2K, and SNOWmageddon are a couple of the fab terms being thrown around lately, coined in a matter of two days to describe the incoming storm. People get creative when told they’re  told Mother Nature’s about to kick their butts.

Sooo as i mentioned, I was released from the office super early today, for fear of the snow… Even my gym was closed, so no workout for this girl, despite the fact that I’d packed my gym clothes! Now, in case you couldn’t tell, I sort of feel like people are being a wee bit overdramatic, acting like we’re going to be home-bound for the next millennium. Alas, I do love me some half days (goes back to elementary school during holidays), and it gave the perf opportunity to restore my blog’s rep.. so I’ll take it!

And besides, who am I to make judgments- I’m just a girl from Las Vegas who thinks 60 degrees is a little chilly.

Needless to say, I spent the rest of my day snacking, watching some mindless T.V., and catching up on some light reading.

Ah, Self… much unlike the political clips I read on a day to day basis at work.

Fun fact-  I actually get a free subscription to this mag because the Editor is a member of my sorority. How bout them apples, eh?

Actually, there was a really great article that I felt was fitting for me right now, at this point in my life.

“Live Your Dream Life.”

Pretty enticing title, no? Basically the article elaborates on the notion that you must life the life that is best for you, choosing the path that fits you personally and will fulfill you the most.

I’ve been thinking about that exact concept a lot lately actually, as I’m trying to figure out which way I want my life to go, career wise here in the short-term, and even into the long-term and the overall larger picture. As you all might remember, I’m here in D.C. interning on Capitol Hill while I continue to seek a full-time position. I do enjoy my internship, but it’s without a doubt helped shift my mind toward my future in a very real way, causing me to stop and reflect on what I’m looking for in life, and ow I what I hope to gain from a career.

Which reminds me of a great quote I read the other day that I wanted to share with you all!

“We must be willing to let go of the life we’ve planned to have the life that is waiting for us.”

****

Alright, now I suppose it’s a good time to start talking about some eats, don’t you think??

Let me just preface by saying I was warned by multiple people (thanks, Mom and Meg.. and every single resident of D.C.) that I should stock up my pantry before the blizzard hit, esp since I get hungry after not eating for two hours, forget being snowed in for two days. Now, I have lots of random goodies overflowing my cabinets already (multiple jars of peanut butter, oatmeal, granola, pancake mixES), plus sweet potatoes, fruit, and frozen veggies up the wazoo, so I was not really that concerned.  Nevertheless, I took the sage advice of those cold weather vets surrounding me and marched myself to the market last night, where I had the fun opportunity to stand in line for 25 minutes at Safeway, waiting to be checked out.

The most popular items that the panicky people were hoarding like children with Halloween candy?

1. Frozen pizzas.

2. raw chicken breasts.

3. Sliced bread.

Hmmm, not what I was expecting, but okay. I also saw a lot of milk and matches.

I, however, bought things like popcorn, an acorn squash (my first ever!), fruit, and (more) sweet potatoes.

Apparently I’m not very good when faced with the task of preparing for a potential natural disaster. Yay, perishables!

OH, and I bought some canned soup- Yeah! Did I redeem myself?

Now, in the spirit of the multitude of frozen pizzas I saw at the checkout line last night, I actually went over to the mini mart up the block from my apartment and picked up this guy.

little bent, still good...

And look kids, no cheese! Love you, Amy’s!

I had half the pizza (because being snowed in make you hungry!) with some broccoli. So gooood.

Might I not forget to mention these babies who were a delicious find at Trader Joe’s last weekend when I was desperately hunting the aisles for some plain graham crackers (which I didn’t find at TJ’s btw, so sad).

Chocolatey Cats Cookies For People

… and yes, the tub really does include the line “for people.” Probably a good thing… These cookies are actually not a bad substitution for my beloved graham crackers! Reminds me of teddy grahams, or -better yet- Annie’s Graham Bunnies. Try them!!

Alright, I’m off to watch a  bad Tory Spelling movie on Hallmark, and watch as the snow continues to fall outside my window. Unfortunately I forgot my camera charger at home back in Vegas (major blogger fail), so all of my pics are going to have to be snapped on my cell phone til my mama mails it to me. The cam’s battery is running out of juice..

Have a great night bloggies! I hope you all have wonderfully exciting things planned for your weekends!

Anyone else ever been snowed in?? How’d you pass the time?

What Is Past Is Prologue

Hi you guys! The prodigal blogger returns!

I know, it’s been like a whole week since I last posted. With Christina here last weekend, and then work starting on Tuesday, I have been in a bit of a whirlwind, just trying to come to terms with it all. There’s a lot of newness in my life, that of which has to unite with the parts of me that remain unchanged.

Good news- I’m loving my job! When you get to walk past this historic building every night, glowing in the moonlight, what’s not to enjoy?

Pretty, huh? Add a chilly wind, and it’s like you guys are walking home from work with me.

I’m a smidge stressing because I know I need to find something permanent to segway into when this internship is done, but at the same time I’m not too concerned, all things considered.

As you may recall, Christina was here visiting me last weekend… we had a blast, but what else is new.

the best!

I mean, let’s consider this for a sec- what kind of girl travels to another city just to cheer up her bummed friend and make sure she doesn’t feel lonely in her new place? You got it dude- that girl. There’s a reason we’ve been best friends since kindergarten.

And please note the orange-shirted woman behind us… Let’s just say she accosted Christina in the ladies’ room to brag about her sexy legs, and how former President Clinton once hit on her. Hmmm.

Anyways, we literally traipsed across the entire District of Columbia by foot while Christina was here. Let me assure you, I am a great tour guide. We braved the annoying all-day rain and chilly temp on Sunday and walked basically 360 degrees around D.C. Christina had never been before, so obviously I had to show her the hot spots! You know, like the Library of Congress (closed, boo!), the Capitol (including the building I work in), the National Archives, the Smithsonian Air and Space museum, and the National Mall, which -fyi- is not full of department stores.

Want a picture montage? Okay, since you asked nicely.

a pop-up map of D.C.

That one’s for you, penpal.

the National Archives.

“What is past is prologue.” Great quote, don’t you think?

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

I underestimated  how far it is from the White House to Lincoln’s lap, btw.. it’s pretty far, in case you’re wondering… especially at night… in the dark… after having walked around for over five hours already. Whoopsies.

***

I just want to touch quickly on the subject of moving… It’s hard! The adjustment, settling in, etc. Major changes, some which you don’t even realize are occurring happen almost daily, and you have to learn to adapt.  I’m still getting used to everything in my new home, including a new roommate, bed, neighborhood…. you get the idea. It’s sort of weird as well because though I do know people in D.C., including my best friend, everyone is scattered around, and naturally already involved in their own routines- not to mention I don’t know that many people. Add in some outside worries about other parts of my life, and you get some frustrated feelings. It’s taking a lot of getting used to, but I’m trying to not rush things like the old me would have in the past. I’m allowing myself time to adjust slowly, and soak it all in.

Nothing has to be perfect all at once, and sometimes perfection is highly overrated.

I’m off to bed, but I hope all’s well in blogland! I am going to work on getting back on regularly blogging schedule my dears.

PS. Please continue to keep all the folks down in Haiti in your thoughts, including the U.S. military and volunteers helping out.

You Can Fed-Ex Anything

Well hello bloggies! I have been MIA, but only because I was moving my booty over to Washington, D.C.!

Check out my sweet new neighborhood!

the Capitol!

Can you see that white thing in the background? I snapped that in the cab on my way from the airport to my new apartment- it’s the United State Capitol. Basically my next door neighbor.

Since I’ll be working on the Hill, I have a sweet walking commute to work- just a mere 15 minute leisure walk. I love being able to walk everywhere, reminds me of New York in that aspect.

My life has been a wee bit overwhelming this past week. I’ve learned a few gems I thought I’d share with you all, as part of my welcome-back-after-being-absent-for-a-week blog post.

1.  You can Fed-Ex pretty much everything.

I arrived in D.C. with 4 suitcases packed with… my life, in clothing/shoe/book form. Everything else has arrived in spurts via boxed deliveries. Probably I could have Fed-Ex -ed myself over here. And can we talk about how jolly my Fed-Ex man is? Great guy, even though he called me at 7 am Friday to tell me he was bringing more boxes (and no, I do not know how/why he has my phone number…).

2. D.C. is darn cold.

Yeah it’s south, which I’d convinced myself meant it wouldn’t be as frigid as New York City. I lied to myself.

There’s a pond over on the west side of the Capitol in a park that was so frozen solid that birds were chilling on top of it, like feathered ice skaters (minus skates… although that’d have been hilarious). I passed by during my run Thursday afternoon, which reminds me…

3. Running is SO cathartic.

I’d forgotten how great it is for making life’s road bumps just feel so much better in the grand scheme of things… It was super nice out for a change on Thursday, so I grabbed the opportunity and ran a (slightly rough) 4 miles, largely uphill, around my new neighborhood. I needed a chance to explore and sort out my life within my head, and running combines that quite nicely for me. I then walked another half of a mile.

I really want to find some nice runnings paths, too, as well as maaaaybe join a running club?

4. It’s always good to be prepared, like any Girl Scout would tell you.

…Not that I was ever a Scout of any kind, but still. The transtion here was slightly easier because I had already done such things as made arrangements with doctors, gotten in contact with friends who live in the district (HELLO, BEST!), and even scoped out the nearest Bikram yoga studio.

Oh yes I did! And it’s within walking distance, holler. I’ve already gone once, and embraced the fab new student welcome month package… I heart discounts.

In addition, since I’d gone ahead and cancelled my gym membership before I left, I decided to put my tush in gear and invest in some cold weather running gear so I’d have zero excuses for making it out the door for a run whenever the urge strikes.

I bought some running gloves, an earmuffs headband, long sleeved dry wick shirt, and running tights from the folks at City Sports.

Like Nike says- Just do it.

5. There’s a new, seemingly random, bag tax that’s been introduced into the district…

Confused? It started in January, and basically means that nowhere in D.C. can you get a plastic or paper bag for your goods (clothes, groceries..a toaster, just sayin’) without paying a nickel ( .05 cents) per bag. Apparently it’s to raise money to salvage the local Anacostia River which is in gnarly shape, but most cashiers I’ve spoken to don’t seem convinced the money’s actually going to where it’s supposed to.

I am shocked NYC/Mayor Bloomberg hasn’t jumped onto this bandwagon yet.

Luckily when I went to Trader Joe’s this evening with Meg (my best friend from high school who works right outside the district), they gave us a free cloth bag. I can add it to my collection…

the top one was the freebie.

And btw, any D.C.-ers out there- is it just me or is Safeway way more expensive than Trader Joe’s?? I bought more at TJ’s tonight than I did at Safeway when I first arrived, and the bill was half the price.  Yet another reason Trader Joe and I are meant to be.

6. Life cannot be planned.

I constantly forget this you guys! You’d think I’d realize that gem by now, but somehow I always get caught slightly off guard with that realization that my plan is not necessarily the universe/God’s plan. Keep in mind that nothing is ever definite and therefore each tiny moment we have with each other are special and dynamic in their own right. I say this because yours truly was supposed to be on a Florida weekend vacay visiting pen pal as I type this…

on new year's eve.

His career (he’s military) sent him on an unexpected trip, however, and so our visit was indefinitely delayed… Hopefully he will be back soon because I miss him bunches, and he’s currently incommunicado. Another reason my run was oh so necessary.

Hmm, I wonder if I could Fed-Ex myself over to visit him… Just kidding!

****

Sorry for the lack of foodie pics- my eats have been super, duper random and sporatic, but I promise more soon! I am kicking myself for not photographing last night’s din at this great Asian restaurant, Sticky Rice ,that my sweet new roommate brought me to, but I’m sure I’ll be back again… had some delish tempura tofu with terriyaki-soaked veggies on a bed of soba noodles.

Now it’s time for a three day weekend, woooo (even though my life is a big weekend currently since I haven’t started work yet)… Christina is coming up on a spontaneous weekend trip tomorrow to visit me/cheer me up since she knows I hadn’t expected to be in town. I’m so grateful for wonderful friends.

Nighty night!

Ps. Let’s keep the people over in Haiti in your prayers please, to include all of American military and others there helping the relief effort..

Pajama Party

So I’ve been a bum today, on purpose. I decided that since I’m moving to D.C. tomorrow, I was going to use my Saturday to savor my last 24 hours at home. Sometimes you need to be a scrub and enjoy lounging around. As a result, I’ve spent the entire day in my pajamas (I’m not kidding), with the extent of a brief outing outside for a run.

I started with some pancakes, pretty standard.

Hard work but somebody’s gotta do it. Eventually I decided it’d be nice to enjoy some warm weather for the last time til about, I don’t know, April maybe, so I went for my run.

4.5 miles in the gorgeous Las Vegas sunshine.

I ran this in about 43 minutes, and then swung back around to my house to pick up my dad to walk another mile. I am very happy about this run. I honestly felt like I could keep going, but I didn’t want to push it and hurt myself, since this was the longest run since getting back into running post-surgery.

Post-run (after stretching extensively because homegirl is paranoid about getting some lame injury again), I had some strawberries with almond butter.

no utensils required.

Btw, strawberries are supposedly good for repairing muscles after exercising.

I’m trying to figure out how I can smuggle this not nearly finished off glass jar of almond butter in my suitcase tomorrow. Too bad this stuff has to be refrigerated.

I also made a pretty bomb sandwich after my shower and returning to my pjs- turkey, tomato, lettuce, and leftover sauteed peppers and onions on a wheat Arnold sandwich thin.

This is a very food heavy post, as you can see.  :-D

Mainly because for the most part, all I’ve done today is… eat.

****

And finally, a quickie review of the Dear John by Nicholas Sparks:

I read the entire thing yesterday.Yes, I’m a pretty quick reader, but really it’s just a fast read. I really enjoyed the story, although by the end I felt like life had been sucked out of me/I was sobbing loudly and obnoxiously. I would definitely say I liked the first half of the book better.. but you’ll just have to read it yourself to know what I’m talking about. It brings up a lot of great questions about true love, withstanding the test of time and life’s interference.

This reminds me,  I sooort of want to join a book club. (What can I say, I was an English major.)

Okay, I’m off to… do more nothing. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and next time you hear from me I’ll be in 30 degree weather singing “Hail to the Chief.” (I mean, probs.)

I’ll leave you with a quote: “Be present in all things, and thankful in all things.” -Maya Angelou.

Anything you all would like see changed or added to the blog? Any particular subjects you’d like me touch more heavily upon, or maybe even less so? I’m open to suggestions.

Pancakes Yes, Gym No

Woohoo, Friday already?! Say it ain’t so! Seems like it snuck up on me this week.

I had meant to go workout earlier before I have to rush to an appointment today, but unfortunately I missed my alarm clock. Ironically I was just talking to Pen pal about how I never sleep through anything. Boo…. but nothing a few good pancakes can’t cheer up, right?

i will miss this pancake pan.

Btw, the secret to keeping the initial pancakes warm while you’re making the rest…

( Covering them up with a dishtowel. )

Yum.

This week, being the beginning of the New Year, has inspired me to make some… changes. Not too many, but ya know.. a couple to keep me honest.

For example, I did what oh so many people do around the first few days of January- I cancelled my gym membership.

Oh, wait.. that doesn’t sound right. Yeah well, I like to be unconventional. I decided that starting out in D.C., I really can’t afford due to both a gym AND a Bikram studio to practice yoga, and right now I feel like I am called more to yoga. The gym has sort of been boring me for the past few months, and I really love the way hot yoga makes my body and mind feel. Plus, it’s closer to my new apartment on the Hill. I actually just froze the account for 6 months, so should I feel the need to cease and desist with this new plan, I’ll get my booty back to the gym on the double.

Do any of you other gym-goers ever feel bored or trapped working out at the gym?

I used to love working out at the gym most days, but I now I’m just sort of.. over it. Not over fitness or being healty or in shape- don’t misunderstand me. Just the whole gym routine. Plus I prefer running outdoors, and that I can do anywhere… supposing I don’t freeze my butt off in the dropping D.C. temperatures.

On a related note- I move in TWO DAYS TO WASHINGTON, D.C.! Gahhh!!!

I’m so excited, yet simultaneously trying to resist from freaking out. As I’d mentioned, my job is currently a bit temporary in nature, so I’m going nuts in my spare time sending out apps and trying to find other positions for after my time on the Hill runs out. Cross your fingers!

In other news, I *think* today will be the final day of last minute errands… I even found some cute clothes for work (new black flats, woo!), and a cookbook!

Looks pretty good! I was in the bookstore for a looooong time- I wanted to make sure I picked the right one… Thanks for all of your recommendations!

Ooh, and I picked up this new book by Nicholas Sparks!

Looks to be a tearjerker, let me tell you… That Sparks.. I’m only about 5 pages in, and I’m already a little sad reading this baby. I believe the premise is explaining the meaning of love (fitting for the writer of The Notebook, eh?), chronicling the relationship of this couple (one of whom is in the army) and how the two wrote letters back and forth to each other every day while he’s away at war.

I’ll let you all know how it is…

Anyways, I’m off to start the day. Have a great Friday you guys!

My Life Has Become One Big Errand

Going off of yesterday’s happy list, I thought I would share this quote with you loveys- I love it!

“Someone once asked me what I regarded as the three most important requirements for happiness. My answer was: ‘A feeling that you have been honest with yourself and those around you; a feeling that you have done the best you could both in your personal life and in your work; and the ability to love others.’” -Eleanor Roosevelt

What do you think?

So on that note, happy Tuesday! I had a bit of a restless night’s sleep, waking up to various things such as Macy’s calling to confirm the delivery of my new bed over in D.C. (woo!). I decided there was nothing I needed more than some oats to get the day moving along, so insert banana oats here!

Not that best picture quality this morning, hmm… Sorry about that!

Notice what my bowl is sitting on top of though? Yep, IHOP is having it’s annual All You Can Eat Pancakes Week! LOVES IT. I don’t even really like IHOP that much (pancakes are bit to sweet/leave an aftertaste), but if anyone’s going to be on the receiving end of an all you-can-eat-pancakes line, it’s going to be me. Looks like I’ll have to head to one soon before leaving L.V. on Sunday.

Speaking of which, I never realized how much stuff accompanies a big, life-altering move until now. We moved one time cross country when I was 10, but at the time I was just along for the ride… I thought living amongst boxes and packing peanuts was fun. Now, however, it’s all errands and bustling around the city. The tailor, the mall, the bookstore, the dry cleaners… you get the picture. I am le tired.

In case you’re wondering- no, I haven’t packed yet. EEEEK!

But I did have time to make a trip to In-N-Out Burger, muy importante before moving to D.C.

The standard for me: burger with ketchup only, plus lettuce, onion, and extra tomato.

It’s basically a sin to leave the west coast without eating one.

****

Oh, but before I embark on some MORE errands (and a movie with mama), let me share my fab 4 mile walk from yesterday morning with you all! Here are some highlights.

There are some trails that line the perimeter behind my neighborhood and overlooking the local wash. Very desert terrain-ish, eh?

There’s also a railroad, and the tracks cut into the back trails behind my neighborhood. Looks kinda cool I think..

At one  point near the railroad tracks, I walked over an overpass above the wash in my neighborhood, and spotted a collection of tumbleweeds. I almost busted out laughing to myself; I mean, how desert can you get?

Where’s the Roadrunner, right?

After walking the trail, I looped back around and walked along the street a few blocks up from my neighborhood where it’s really shady, with lots and lots of pretty trees. At one point, I almost stepped on this guy!

A pomegranate! I got super excited, even though a. I’ve never even eaten a pom before, and b. I never even realized they grew out here in Las Vegas. The purple juice was peeertty.

Oh my goodness you guys, and when I was almost back to my house, I went past where the trail in my neighborhood starts (also over part of the local wash), and saw this insanity.

Um, why is the water pouring out of the wash tunnel fluorescent green?? Should I have the EPA on speed dial right now or something? So freaky. I suddenly felt like I was living in Eerie, Indiana. (Random- anyone ever watch that Disney show as a kid?)

Ooookay, time for me to head out the door. I am also on a hunt to find a great new cookbook and some running gloves for outdoor workouts in the D.C. frigid temps, besides continuing to organize my life. Hope you all have a marvelous day.. Carpe diem!

Anyone else ever moved cross country?  And any cookbook recommendations for simple, quick, and relatively healthy?

Apparently Butter Is Flammable

Last night I learned a lesson- you should not put  butter in the microwave to soften while still in its wrapper… you MAY see sparks. Just saying...

I was microwaving buuuttah because I’d promised my daddy that I would bake him a yellow layer cake back during Christmas, and never got around to it because we’d already had plenty of sweets hanging around the house. I’d never actually made a layer cake from scratch before (cheesecakes, however, I’m boss), so this was an adventure. After a LOVELY short run (little over 3 miles around sunset), I found a recipe online and, after making the usual Pancake Girl tweaks to it, I got busy!

Did you know yellow cake is yellow simply because of the butter and egg yolks? I did not. Plus, this batter was thiiick- but smelled amazing!

I poured the batter into two 8-inch round cake pans, and they baked up in a 350 degree oven beautifully golden in just shy of 35 minutes.

See?

Okay, so here’s a trick to flipping these badboys out of their pans, in case you want a tip– once the cake has cooled, place a plate on top of the cake, then flip. Easy peasy.

Not easy peasy, however, is frosting the darn thing. Ugggh.

I used Betty Crocker Rich and Creamy Chocolate, because I wasn’t in the mood to make my own frosting last night (though I’ve actually done it before, with a lil help from Martha). Let’s just say frosting was a… labor intensive process. Had I been alone in my house there probably would have been some swearing occurring.

won't win any "pretty cake" awards.

Yeah, not the most attractive thing I’ve ever made, but nevertheless, 3/4 a container of frosting later,

and I was done. Whewww…

The verdict?

According to my taste testers, delicious, and better than a box mix! YAY!

Anyone want some cake? I bet I could think of a couple people..

****

Today is a busy day folks! Lots of pre-moving errands, plus a super long walk, planned. The walk is because I want to enjoy the Vegas outdoors without running for a third day in a row, and though I’d love to also do some Bikram yoga, I’m in super-save mode til I get workin’ in D.C. (Making good on my resolution!)

I made some warm and gooey almond butter-covered oats this morning, mainly because my house is freezing for some reason.

Lots of banana too, naturally.

I also want to take a cue from another blogger, and write out a happy list, i.e. what makes me smile and that I’m grateful for at this moment.

1. Pancakes.

2. Great friends and family.

3. Pen pals.

4. Laughter.

5. A new year, new adventures.

6.  Good health.

What’s on your happy list?

Speaking of happy- many of those on my list were captured on New Year’s Eve. Usually I think New Year’s Eve is overrated and that people put too high of expectations into it, but this one was a blast, filled with great laughs,

me harassing pen pal, clearly.

unncessary handicapped hotel bathroom, tub used for other purposes.

people I adore,

me and miss Annie, partners in crime.

We met up w my good friend Laura in San Jose on NYE Eve.

and lots of champagne.

Oh, and crowns, courtesy of the Disney Princess collection, aka a mandatory in my mind. Yes, I’m internally 10 years old. What’s New Year’s Eve with a crown I ask you?! So as you can see, I forced everyone to wear one (yes, more people than just seen here in these pictures); I’m a pink crown pusher.

And lastly, what would any night be without one of my creeper, paparazzi style photos of a random person?

some kilt-wearing man in the bar, NYE Eve in San Jose.

You know you enjoy these.

But seriously, the best New Year’s I’ve had yet! San Fran is gorgeous, and I wish I’d been able to spend more time exploring the city… maybe next year?

Have a great day everyone! xo