Breakfast/ Dessert/ Dinner/ Exercise/ Fitness/ Lunch/ Product Reviews

April Showers Bring….Product Reviews!

Happy Tuesday!

Down here in Tampa we are having some major April showers! Actually, we have been under tornado alerts all day and I had to move my 3 mile run inside to the treadmill (gag). More on that later though.

First it is time for a protein packed green monster!

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In this delightful and creamy green concoction, I used:

  • 1 organic apple, cored and sliced
  • 1 frozen banana
  • big handful of organic spinach
  • 1 heaping scoop Sun Warrior Brown Rice Protein
  • 2 cups cold water

I was going to add cinnamon but I forgot! Anyways, I was left with 32 ounces of delicious smoothie that kept me satisfied all morning long!! LOVE that additional 15 grams of brown rice protein, by the way. Scroll down to read the whole review.

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Everyone at work thinks I have gone off the deep end, but I LOVE these big smoothies. However they always end up making me freezing and I have to wear the communal Publix sweatshirt that the managers wear when they unpack the frozen food.

Breakfast was right at 8:00 and was….oats! Obviously.

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Ooheee were these ever filling! I used:

  • 1/2 cup oats with 1/2 cup almond milk + 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 scoop Sun Warrior
  • tons of cinnamon and a pinch of sea salt
  • HUGE scoop (probably more like two….) fresh ground pb
  • 1 ENTIRE CONTAINER of blackberries!!

I couldn’t even tell the protein powder was in these oats…they were SO delicious and cinnamon & vanilla packed! Have I mentioned how much I looooove fresh blackberries?!

After work I noshed on a Clif Bar on my way home from work and on route to the gym…

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BLEH! This was awful. I used to like this flavor but not anymore. It tasted like pure sugar to me and I almost gagged. I really wanted a Mint Chocolate one but I can’t find them anywhere 🙁

As I said before, I had to take my weekly 3 mile maintenance run inside for a change because of the foul weather! I went over to the Y, set the treadmill pace at 8:50 and ran, ran away. Ugh! It was awful! I HATE THE TREADMILL!!!!!! I really, really do. I feel like these shorter runs are sooo much harder than my long runs…the whole time today I was staring at the treadmill clock and just wishing either it was over or I was outside. I think Tuesday runs are also harder because I am running AFTER I have worked a full day on my feet and been up since 3 AM. On Saturday mornings I am running first thing outside after a nice 8 hours of sleep. Sigh.

Regardless, I made it the three miles and afterwards I rolled around on the foam roller for quite some time. OUCH it hurt! I have a love/hate relationship with that little foam cylinder…..meh. I also cranked out 20 pushups before leaving. I feel like my pushups have improved 100% since starting The 30 Day Shred. Seriously! I have only been “shredding” for 2 weeks but already feel sooo much stronger and can crank out 20 real-time manly pushups like it aint no thang. 😉

When I got home it was time for another snack….courtesy of MixMyGranola!

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I had one serving of my signature Eat,Live,Run granola with vanilla almond milk and it rocked! Check out review below as well. This was nutty, sweet and filling!

I iced for awhile….got caught up on some emails and then started off making dinner!

I used fresh, organic butter lettuce (my new obsession):

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And a whole deliciously crisp orange bell pepper along with a super ripe tomato

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To re-make Ani’s raw tacos from her book, Ani’s Raw Kitchen!

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I LOVE THESE!!!! I made them a few weeks back and they were so good I recreated them tonight. The recipe couldn’t be simpler, too, and they are very very satisfying. I feel like a million bucks after this meal! The raw taco meat is made from almonds, walnuts, olive oil and spices and is so incredibly flavorful that I could just eat that with a fork. I almost did and had to stop myself! And wrapping the taco meat in these soft butter lettuce wraps is perfect (and perfectly messy!)—

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All together now with juicy watermelon on the side—

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Another view because it was SO pretty!

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And then yet another raw coconut lemon bar (also from Ani’s Raw Kitchen) for dessert—

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And now….product review time!

Sun Warrior Vanilla Raw Vegan Protein Powder

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I wasn’t sure what to expect with this stuff, seeing as I have never tried a brown rice protein powder before. However, I was VERY VERY pleased with this product!!! It did not taste “gritty” in the slightest bit, as some have some brown rice proteins may taste. Instead, it was creamy with a delicious vanilla flavor. No weird aftertaste, no clumps….just greatness! I am so happy that I took the plunge and bought this off Amazon because it now is my new favorite protein powder. It turned a green smoothie into a yummy, creamy shake and gave my morning oatmeal a delicious vanilla flavor. The only negative thing I can find to say about Sun Warrior is that it IS messier than other protein powders. Once this powder gets on your hands, it will get everywhere so be careful! Unlike whey, it has an almost “chalky” consistency (but not taste at all!) and easily gets on your clothes. Overall, I was extremely pleased with this and it definitely helped to keep me full and satisfied all work-morning long!

MixMyGranola!

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I was SO excited when I was given the opportunity to create my own unique granola mix! Of course, being the foodie that I am, it took about 45 minutes for me to finally get the “perfect mix” because MixMyGranola has SO many awesome options!!! I chose low fat granola base, hemp seeds, chia seeds, amaranth, goji berries and dried bananas. It was delicious and high in protein because of the hemp seeds. By mixing your own granola, you can avoid all the stuff you DON’T want to see on the back of the cereal box, i.e. sugar, high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavorings and anything you cannot pronounce. I loved being in control over my granola and love eating it, knowing everything in it is pure and good for me! 🙂

Tomorrow is swimming Wednesday! Let’s hope the weather clears up…almost halfway through the week, yall!

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  • Courtney (The Hungry Yogini)
    April 14, 2009 at 3:32 pm

    Oooh dinner looks so colorful and delicious. All of your eats look wonderful.

    This weather totally stinks although it’s probably a good thing with the recent water restrictions down in Tampa. My parents are loving it!

    Have a good night!

  • Shelly
    April 14, 2009 at 3:34 pm

    Oh I feel your pain with the treadmill! I just finished my first 10K race (on Saturday) and while I was training, I tried to use the treadmill on rainy days. I just can’t stick with it! My stride never feels very natural when I’m on it, and I’m honestly terrified of falling off of it! I inevitably give up and hit the elliptical instead, although I do feel that I get a better workout when I run.

  • Katrina (gluten free gidget)
    April 14, 2009 at 3:42 pm

    I think I am going to order that cookbook.

  • FoodsThatFit
    April 14, 2009 at 3:43 pm

    I must try that raw taco recipe!!!!

    Way to go with the run on the treadmill, I get bored to tears running inside as well! I’ve tried to distract myself by watching the t.v., but I have lost my balance one too many times not paying attention and had a few embarrassing slips off of the treadmill 🙁 Yea, I wasn’t blessed with great coordination 🙂

    Miss you my raw food loving, running, foam rolling friend!!!!

  • Marissa
    April 14, 2009 at 3:52 pm

    I have a love hate relationship with the foam roller too. Then I stand up and it’s like ahhh…. 🙂

  • Leanne
    April 14, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Glad you liked your new protein powder… What do you think of soy protein powder? I’ve heard mixed reviews on it.

    • jenna
      April 14, 2009 at 4:03 pm

      Leanne,

      To be honest, I try to eat as FEW soy products as possible. I love tofu and tempeh but when it comes to other processed soy, I try to deter. I have plenty reasons for this, one of which is that breast cancer runs in my family and I’m wary about the soy-breast cancer research. I try to eat foods that are as minimally processed as possible and while I do enjoy tofu and tempeh, I enjoy them in moderation and if there is an alternative (like brown rice protein powder) I will definitely go in that direction!

  • Jessica
    April 14, 2009 at 4:00 pm

    Running inside on the treadmill is definitely a pain, but glad you got through it Jenna! That monstrous smoothie looks delicious, I would have so much fun drinking it because I’m sure it lasts a while! Your lettuce wraps look great too!

  • Sarah (lovINmytummy)
    April 14, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    I love your snack-ilicious day. Big old meals are overrated. I’m assuming those raw tacos are not. You may have just sold me on a raw cookbook…who’d’ve thunk it?

  • Run Sarah
    April 14, 2009 at 4:17 pm

    I love the idea of the raw taco ‘meat’ – how yummy! I need to try that.

  • amethyst
    April 14, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    I’m with you, Jenna – running on a treadmill feels completely alien to an outdoor (real!) runner… 😉

  • RT
    April 14, 2009 at 4:20 pm

    Those raw tacos look amazing! I made crackers recently using similar ingredients (though not raw cuz I don’t have a dehydrator) but I will definitely have to try these soon.
    Love your blog btw 🙂

  • VeggieGirl
    April 14, 2009 at 4:23 pm

    HELL YES FOR SUN WARRIOR!!!!!!! 😀

  • Susan
    April 14, 2009 at 4:51 pm

    Ha, I had the opposite problem as you today. I ran 3 miles outside and was miserable the whole time! I missed the cushy treadmill in my climate controlled gym 🙁

    I definitely want to try that smoothie!

  • Foodie (Fab and Delicious Food)
    April 14, 2009 at 5:07 pm

    Thanks for the product reviews!

  • Michelle Hisae
    April 14, 2009 at 5:16 pm

    That protein powder sounds great! It’s a bit pricey, though. But I’m guessing it’s worth it!

  • Runeatrepeat
    April 14, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    I totally prefer running outside now, but I used to do it all time!
    I soooo want to try that My Mix Granola 🙂

  • Bec
    April 14, 2009 at 5:30 pm

    that smoothy sounds delic!

  • RunToFinish
    April 14, 2009 at 5:48 pm

    don’t forget to stop by for a fun honest foods giveaway!

    Hmm would butter lettuce work in the smoothies? I really disliked the kale, but was good with swiss chard. Seriously I try not to say much about them to people besides my bloggies because they just make these horrible faces!!

    thanks for the sunwarrior review…seems like everyone really likes it

  • Nicole
    April 14, 2009 at 5:51 pm

    Oooh, those raw tacos look amazing!

  • Shannon @ TheDailyBalance
    April 14, 2009 at 6:16 pm

    great product reviews — thanks!

    I also HATE the treadmill – I feel like a hamster! Now you get to see what us Midwesterners have to go through – we have had bad weather for MONTHS!

    those raw tacos looked simply delish!

    Have a great night 😉

  • Kristin @ Iowa Girl Eats
    April 14, 2009 at 6:20 pm

    WOAH! An entire container of berries!? YUM!

  • Victoria
    April 14, 2009 at 6:21 pm

    Granola looks great. Homemade is my favorite, but this seems awfully close!

  • Shelby
    April 14, 2009 at 6:26 pm

    Mmm, I absolutely love fresh berries on oatmeal. I’ve been known to down a whole container of blueberries in one sitting.

    I’ve got to try this protein powder!

  • Michelle
    April 14, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    Your raw tacos look amazing! I will definitely be trying that recipe!

  • zestycook
    April 14, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    Dinner looks amazing Jenna! That smoothie looks delish!

  • Laura (On the Threshold of Greatness)
    April 14, 2009 at 6:30 pm

    Thank you so much for the protein review! I’ve thought about ordering this because of the phenomenal nutritional stats, but thought it might taste like garbage. (I hated hemp protein!) After seeing positive reviews from both you and VeggieGirl, I think I’ll order a tub when I run out of whey protein.

    I know I don’t comment much, but I’m always reading your blog. You’re yoga story has encouraged me to look into my local yoga studio, and I hope to begin classes in two weeks. 🙂

  • K
    April 14, 2009 at 6:43 pm

    That Clif bar is probably my least favorite as well – just something not right about it! Those raw tacos however, delicious!!

  • brandi
    April 14, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    LOVE the big smoothie and the WHOLE container of berries? I need to try that 🙂

  • Haleigh
    April 14, 2009 at 7:06 pm

    The carrot cake clif bar is way too sweet!! Even for some one who has a major sweet tooth like me 🙂 I love all your snacks throughout the day and thanks for the product reviews!

  • KatieF
    April 14, 2009 at 7:07 pm

    I’m impressed by the raw tacos…they almost look like the real thing!

  • Lisa D
    April 14, 2009 at 7:08 pm

    Isn’t it funny how taste buds change? I like carrot cake Clif bars, but not as much as I used to. Thanks for the in-depth product review. I can’t imagine a foodie not LOVING mix my granola, but I also like just makin my own!

  • Sharon
    April 14, 2009 at 7:27 pm

    Great product review!
    and everything looks amazing!

  • Mara @ What's For Dinner?
    April 14, 2009 at 7:33 pm

    Butter lettuce is so amazing… I have to pick some of that up!

  • Heather McD (Heather Eats Almond Butter)
    April 14, 2009 at 7:36 pm

    Jenna,
    Raw tacos?!? I love it.

    So glad you’re liking the Sun Warrior – good stuff! It is a bit messy though, huh?

    I hope you enjoy your chia protein smoothie. Have a good Wednesday my friend.

  • Meg
    April 14, 2009 at 7:48 pm

    I used to love the carrot cake clifs too, but they are too sweet for me now too!

  • Adi (oatonomy.com - repaired!)
    April 14, 2009 at 8:00 pm

    20 man push ups?! That’s awesome!
    And the blackberries on your oats look so scrumptious. Mmm.

  • Kailey (SnackFace)
    April 14, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    Oooh now I want Sun Warrior! You make it sound wonderful!

    Sorry about the nast treadmill run. I can’t stand them either! You’re still a baller for running 3 miles after being on your feet all day.

    I adore the raw tacos AND butter lettuce. That is the best lettuce, I just have a hard time finding an affordable head of it here.

    Thanks for the great reviews. Hope you have a fab humpday!

  • SnowKat
    April 14, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    I have been seeing the Sun Warrior protein powder all over the blog world and realized today, after reading your post, it was time for me to get some to try out for myself. Everyone seems to love it & I can’t wait to try it out ! (I got chocolate – hope it’s as good as the vanilla you got.)

  • Kristi @ Sweet Cheeks
    April 14, 2009 at 9:12 pm

    Ok I need to get that raw recipe book! So many yummy things I want to try! Your dinner looks fabulous!!!

    Hope you have a great swim tomorrow!

  • Hallie
    April 14, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    Jenna, why do you use protien powder? I’m honestly just curious. I see so many bloggers using it in smoothies/bfast cookies. I think I probably don’t need it since I eat a fair amount of chicken/turkey/tofu and the powder is usually expensive. But sometimes I feel like I’m missing out on something? Does that make sense or do I sound like a crazy person 🙂

    • jenna
      April 15, 2009 at 1:10 am

      Hallie,

      I use it because I don’t eat a lot of meat and am VERY active. I like to get a certain amount of protein in every day and this helps me easily achieve that so I can build endurance and muscle!

  • Alison
    April 14, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Good looking oats. I love blackberries! I had a bunch today too.
    Thanks for the review of the Cliff bar. I almost bought that flavor the other day. Maybe I’ll hold off now. I’ll stick to the ones with chocolate.

  • Jessica
    April 14, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Hey chica! If you are looking for those Clif Bars (because they are kind of amazing), I ordered mine from here:
    http://www.vitacost.com/Clif-Bar-Energy-Bar-Cool-Mint-Chocolate-12-Bars
    They actually have a ton of great products (Jay Robb’s, flax seeds, organic beauty products and much more). Hope that helps!

  • Alisa - One Frugal Foodie
    April 14, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    Those blackberries are making me crave summer!

  • Caroline
    April 14, 2009 at 10:31 pm

    Ooh! I can’t wait for my copy of Ani’s Raw to arrive!

  • Fit Mommy
    April 14, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    Interested in hearing more about benefits of brown rice protein powder. Will check them out!

  • Ellen M
    April 14, 2009 at 11:47 pm

    Carrot Cake Clif Bars used to be my favorite, but I too ate one the other day after a long hiatus and found it way too sweet! time to pick a new favorite…

  • Kiki
    April 15, 2009 at 3:10 am

    Heya, first time commenting on your blog, even tho i’ve been a reader/follower for a few months now. It’s very refreshing to see your ideas, and your approach to life! Keep it up girl! X

  • emily
    April 15, 2009 at 6:30 am

    those raw tacos look devine!

  • Danielle
    April 15, 2009 at 7:07 am

    I can’t get over how good those raw tacos look!
    I can’t wait to see some sun but doesn’t look like I will today, hopefully you’ll get to!

  • Jenna
    April 15, 2009 at 8:03 am

    Your raw tacos look amazing!! I need to get that book!! 🙂

  • Nancy
    April 15, 2009 at 8:31 am

    I just placed a order for my own granola. I can not wait for it to come. The fun part was giving it a name.

  • Rachel
    April 15, 2009 at 8:51 am

    Are you still running with the Galloway method?

    • jenna
      April 15, 2009 at 11:57 am

      Rachel,

      Nope! I feel like I have graduated from the Galloway method and now I just run, run, RUN! 🙂

  • Emily
    April 15, 2009 at 10:15 am

    I hate the treadmill too – sometimes it feels like pure torture! I always end up changing the incline and pace to keep my mind occupied.

    Your raw tacos look so pretty and delicious – yet another addition to my “to make” list.

    Hope you have a great Wednesday! 🙂

  • Melissa (Nibbles and Wiggles)
    April 15, 2009 at 10:22 am

    <3 blackberries too… except for that one seed that always gets stuck in my one tooth. 😉

  • Danica
    April 15, 2009 at 10:44 am

    Time/mileage always goes so slow on the treadmill and so fast outside! Thanks for all the reviews – I am not sure what I want to try next now.

  • Jess
    April 15, 2009 at 11:11 am

    I hate the treadmill too. Playing with the incline and speed settings every few minutes helps break up the boredom, just make sure you don’t overdo it on a recovery run.

    Your love/hate relationship with the foam roller means you’re doing it correctly. 😉

  • Sandy
    April 15, 2009 at 11:20 am

    I need Shred advice. When I tried this before I didn’t know whether you do the workout daily or take a day off between workouts. How do you do the Shred?

    • jenna
      April 15, 2009 at 11:56 am

      Sandy,

      You are supposed to do it every day for 30 days. Now personally, I don’t do it every day but if you are strictly sticking with the program you are supposed to. I am using it just to really switch up my exercises during the week…I’m not trying to lose weight or shred myself to pieces.

  • skinnyrunner
    April 15, 2009 at 12:39 pm

    as always, your food looks amazing and so healthy too. ive always wanted to try protein powder but been afraid that id hate the taste and then waste all the money on a big jar.

  • Meg
    April 15, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    Those tacos look so delish!!!!

    I’ve been thinking about buying a protein powder, but couldn’t decide what to get.. this one sounds like the best choice!

    Hope the weather clears up!

  • Raw Wednesday + Nutty Giveaway! | Eat, Live, Run
    April 15, 2009 at 3:14 pm

    […] Comments « April Showers Bring….Product Reviews! […]

  • my brush with fame – EMERIL!!!! BAM! « Sarah Is Healthy
    April 15, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    […] I really need more protein in my diet (not doing tofu/soy anymore) and after reading Jenna’s review on Sun Warrior brown rice protein powder I think I will order some soon!  I just hurts to spend $42 on a tub of protein powder though […]

  • Tina
    June 3, 2009 at 4:31 am

    Great blog and photos! I’ve never heard of that make your own granola. how neat. I use sun warrior all the time too. Its my favorite. I get huge quantities of it because its cheap that way from http://www.dimondhealth.com. Happy early birthday! That green dress is beautiful on you.