Breakfast/ Dessert/ Dinner

November!

Happy November 1st!

Wow…I can’t believe the holidays are already upon us….this year has definitely been the craziest of my entire life and it just keeps on goin’! 😉

Sorry for not doing my specialty 1 a.m. post last night but I ended up meeting a friend for a beer then just hanging out and talking until really late and by the time I looked at my watch it was, like, 1:15 and yeah…..the computer definitely just did not open. And I totally forgot about setting my clock back! I’m a mess!

Last night for dinner I made a huge salad with organic greens that I picked up at a farm stand, local heirloom tomatoes, homemade bread and butter pickles (homemade from the farm stand, not by me hah) and a falafel sunshine burger…topped with hummus and hot sauce!

IMG_0330

On the side, I had a whole wheat arnold’s sandwich thin!

IMG_0322

Now, I’m sure I’ve done some sort of product review for these before but I really really love these. To me, they are the perfect little snack item to have in the house because each sandwich thin is only 100 calories and you can get really creative with the toppings. My favorite topping is chocolate peanut butter and banana. 🙂 The whole wheat ones almost have a sweet honey taste to them!

I felt so domestic as I stayed in and handed out candy to kids! I snacked on a little TJ’s trail mix so I wouldn’t devour the entire candy bowl 😉

IMG_0332

This morning I was excited for my first November bowl of pumpkin oats!

IMG_0348

Mmmmmmmm

I used:

  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup 1% milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
  • almond butter
  • maple syrup
  • sea salt, cinnamon

Today I’m doing these activities in this order: church, target, trader joe’s. And then tonight starts the beginning of a three day very special event that I can’t wait to reveal to y’all! I think you are going to like it….I know that I’m SO excited!!!!!!! 😉

***

And now, the ankle update!

I wanted to address this because I’ve been getting emails on the subject and instead of writing the same thing over a million times I figured everyone would want to hear it too and it would make a great discussion!

To answer some questions:

1. NO, I have not been exercising at all.

2. NO, I have not altered my eating or counted my calories since I stopped exercising.

3. NO, I have not weighed myself at all but I’m pretty sure I’ve put on about 5 lbs since moving to California….I know my body and while I still fit into all my clothes the same way, I just feel a bit “softer”. It’s not a horrible thing and I’m honestly not stressed about it at all because in the grand scheme of things it’s just not that big of a deal. I’d rather weigh 5 lbs more and enjoy my life the way I like to (by eating fine food and drinking aaamazing wine) rather than restricting myself and just eating carrots and broccoli. Life is meant to be enjoyed and savored, and for the first time in a long time, I am really enjoying life again.

I’ve had a really difficult time though not exercising. I mean, I really LOVE to break a sweat and get my endorphins pumping. As y’all know, my favorite form of exercise is yoga and I’d love to just be able to do yoga and run forever…which I’m sure I will be able to when I heal. However, I haven’t even done yoga in the past week because I was REALLY hurting myself and not letting myself heal. All those balancing postures and warrior ones just were not working for the ol’ sprain and finally I just had to relinquish control and give it up. Actually, it’s been quite humbling! For the first couple days I went a little stir crazy but now I’m just trying to be still and learn from this experience.

Since I’ve stopped, I’ve noticed that my ankle is feeling a lot better and the swelling is finally going down a little bit. I’ve started icing three times a day (I should have been doing this all along….) and really trying to just stay off my feet as much as possible. How has this affected my eating? I find that I’m not as hungry! Like yesterday, I had no desire for an afternoon snack. I haven’t cut my portion sizes down or restricted myself AT ALL but I definitely don’t have that same ravenous appetite that I did when I was running, say 10 miles. Obviously. Am I stressed out and worried about gaining weight? No, not really. If gaining a few pounds is the worst thing that happens to me then so be it. I can easily lose the weight when I am able to start working out again. There are soooo many bigger things out there to worry about. Like I said, I feel a little “softer” now…I’ve definitely lost some of my muscle tone and just feel out of shape, but I know that when I’m able to work out again it will all come back quickly.

Well, those was my Sunday morning deep thoughts. I’ve gotta jet!

You Might Also Like

  • Anais
    November 1, 2009 at 7:47 am

    You know what, we all have some set backs in life, and what matters is how we deal with it! You seem to be handling this really well and taking care of yourself 🙂 Hope it all starts to feel better really soon! Happy November!

  • Lindsay
    November 1, 2009 at 7:47 am

    Seriously, how did it become November already? This year….. has been insane!

  • Colleen
    November 1, 2009 at 7:49 am

    I hear ya girl! I was running the other day, tripped, fell, and took all the skin off my knee. Hobbling has been my only mode of exercise lately, and I’m just not worrying about it at all. These things happen. Although, sadly, having skinned knee at 28 is no easier than when you’re 8. HAHA. Wishing you a speedy recovery! *HUGS*

  • BethT
    November 1, 2009 at 7:55 am

    You’re smart to rest the ankle. My hubby sprained his a while back, didn’t rest as well as he should and three months later, it’s STILL hurting. Ankles are tricky. Good for you for just going with the flow and letting it heal.

  • Jen
    November 1, 2009 at 7:56 am

    This is my first comment on your blog (just started following it a few weeks ago), but I thought today was the perfect day. I love your thoughts on eating without exercising. If people eat to enjoy/savor food, and exercise because it makes them feel more energetic and strong, we would all feel better about ourselves. 🙂 Also, have you considered water jogging? Strap on a flotation belt and move your arms and legs in the deep end of a pool like you’re running. If done right, it’s a great cardio workout with the bonus of no impact on your ankle and built in low level compression.

  • Fancy
    November 1, 2009 at 8:01 am

    I know others have commented on this already….but can you post a picture of your Halloween costume for those of us who missed the pics? It sounds adorable….I’m sure you looked so cute! 🙂

  • Lizzie
    November 1, 2009 at 8:06 am

    I took last week off (on holiday, at home, submitted to resting ankle) and even after a week I felt all ‘soft’ (home cooking didn’t help, but it was so worth it! :)), jet lag and homesickness most of the week, and that was also a bit of a setback. I’ve had to change my goals for my race in three weeks. But I am learning the importance of pace, taking it easy and like you pointed out, ICE! Which I have been doing more of and that is helping.

    You have such a great attitude Jenna and it’s great that you have a cute new place, new friends, new church, fab new job to keep you energized as you rest – an oxymoron, but somehow it fits! Enjoy your Sunday!

  • Joelle (The Pancake Girl))
    November 1, 2009 at 8:07 am

    I’m glad you posted about your ankle.. thanks for being so open. I feel the same way, as I’m laid up right now because of having had surgery on my foot. There are more important things in life to stress out about, and all discomfort in temporary. Most important is to get your ankle back to normal!

  • Diana
    November 1, 2009 at 8:11 am

    Good thing your ankle’s getting better, glad you stopped the exercise for now. And you are right, in the grand scheme of things this doesn’t matter at all. You’re in a new place, enjoying yourself and new friends and new (and old!) foods. It’s definitely been a rollercoaster time for you, so when things get a little calmer, everything will be back to normal.
    Just have fun girl. 🙂

  • Andrea
    November 1, 2009 at 8:20 am

    I am a longtime reader but I haven’t really posted that much. I just wanted to let you know how much I truly enjoy reading your blog. It’s so amazing to hear someone who has just a down-to-earth and real approach to life. I have been suffering a little pain in my knee and calf since I upped my weekly running mileage and have been struggling with cutting back on physical activity to give myself a chance to heal. This may sound dumb but reading your words allowed me to take a step back and just be like…”It’s okay to let yourself take a break!” Thanks so much for allowing me to see that. I hope you heal quickly–but more importantly I hope you keep loving your life right now! Thanks again!
    Andrea

  • Abby (Abby's VeGaN Eats)
    November 1, 2009 at 8:26 am

    I love your outlook on the whole gaining weight thing.. I could not agree more. Life could be worse and the good thing is.. your ankle will eventually be all better!!

    Love Arnolds too.. esp when you make a sandwich and don’t want to taste “all bread”. YUM! 🙂

  • Katie S
    November 1, 2009 at 8:40 am

    You rock, Jenna. ‘Nuf said 🙂

  • Kat (Kat's Daily Plate)
    November 1, 2009 at 8:41 am

    I think its so important to take a complete break when you have to heal. I In the long run, you will be able to return to exercising more quickly and feeling stronger. Like you said, a few pounds in no big deal in the big scheme of things. Being good to yourself matters much more!

  • Estela @ Weekly Bite
    November 1, 2009 at 8:42 am

    glad to hear your ankle is feeling better…. AND that you are enjoying life! It’s so much more important to be happy then obsess about a number on the scale!

    Happy November 🙂

  • Rachel
    November 1, 2009 at 8:43 am

    Hear hear to that. Really hope your ankle gets better soon – sprains can be a real pain (no pun intended), but giving it the time makes a world of difference, especially if you don’t want this to happen again.
    FYI for any Canadian readers – after seeing these Arnold Sandwich Thins all around the blogosphere I was psyched to find these Whole Grain oneBuns by Pita Break http://ca.ozerybakeryinc.com/products/newproducts/onebun/
    They’re really versatile and esp. good as pre-run snack w/ almond butter & banana or veggie burgers! (p.s. I’m no way affiliated w/ Pita Break, it just bugs me when we can’t get some of the same products here in Canada, hello Chobani?)

  • Jamie
    November 1, 2009 at 8:44 am

    Jenna,

    I was working out with a trainer at one point pretty intensely and then hurt my foot to the point where I had to wear a boot and could not exercise at all. It was really really mentally and emotionally difficult but you are such a healthy person in general and looking at this big picture, you will get through this time of no exercise!

    One thing that helped me was swimming… maybe that is something you could try out at a local gym or something.

    Anyway, you are such an inspirational person to so many readers and I have LOVED watching you enjoy all of the California food/wine because you should be! That IS living!

    Jamie

  • Katie
    November 1, 2009 at 8:46 am

    I have been struggling with a lot of random things lately, and it was really nice to hear how you are coping with some of your struggles. I know bloggers don’t like to complain, but I really appreciate honest, open posts like this one. Very empowering! Thanks:)

  • Molly @thevegandorm
    November 1, 2009 at 8:48 am

    Wow, you have such a healthy and inspiring outlook! Congratulations on doing what’s best for you and not putting a couple pounds before your happiness.

  • Jenna
    November 1, 2009 at 8:49 am

    i am glad you are not restricitng and not worried about gaining a few pounds while you let your ankle rest! that is what your body needs!
    i like your thinking about you much rather be living and enjoying life 🙂 beause life is too short!
    can’t wait til you reveal your surpriseee!
    jenna

  • Gloria
    November 1, 2009 at 8:52 am

    Jenna, your thoughts are so true! There are WAY worse things out there than not being perfectly toned and in shape. The important thing is that you’re staying healthy, being true to yourself, and loving life… and I love that – so inspiring 🙂 You have so many amazing things to look forward to once you heal… like getting that road bike maybe?? We need more cyclists in the healthy blogging world!

  • Susan
    November 1, 2009 at 8:57 am

    The Arnold Thins would be so good if they just had a smidge less sugar! I find a lot of american breads way too sweet for me, which is weird, because i have a huge sweet tooth! Perhaps I should try a kind other than the whole wheat.

    Wonderful thoughts on your ankle. The world doesn’t end if you gain 5 lbs… especially if you’re happy! I injured my hip and couldn’t do anything but walk and swim for 2 months. I thought for sure I was going to put on weight, but my hunger decreased with the lack of activity. So it just evened out 🙂

  • Becca
    November 1, 2009 at 8:59 am

    Glad to hear you are giving yourself and break and not stressing about things!

    I have two request…

    1. Could you do a post on how to make the “breakfast cookie” that you made a while back? Made with oatmeal and stuff…

    2. You should do a post of your tattoos and what they mean 🙂

    Have a great day!

  • Island Girl Eats
    November 1, 2009 at 9:00 am

    You are so right! Who cares about a few pounds? Too many people get stressed out about weight gain, or ‘trying’ to avoid the sweet treats in life. I would rather enjoy my life (in moderation of course) then spend it weighing everything on a scale and depriving myself.

    Have fun at Trader Joe’s. I am soooo jealous!

  • MMiller
    November 1, 2009 at 9:03 am

    So glad you are taking the time to really heal! And as Suzy Toronto says…”Life is all about how you handle Plan B” Just love her sayings!

    And you are Rockin’ your Plan B!

  • Paul
    November 1, 2009 at 9:05 am

    Have you tried restorative yoga, like from a book by Judith Lassater? It consists of supported poses and it may seem like nothing is happening but it really is. I did a lot of it after some surgery and it was a good substitute for an active practice. Try looking it up on the internet; I’m sure there are some good sites out there.

  • christie, honoring health
    November 1, 2009 at 9:09 am

    Good for you for taking care of yourself. It sounds like you are really listening to your body and have a wonderful attitude. I hope you ankle is feeling 100% soon!

  • Alicia
    November 1, 2009 at 9:14 am

    Hi Jenna. I enjoy your blog. And I love your balanced great approach to eating. You eat typical normal foods. You eat healthy , you sometimes you eat processed, you eat out, cook in, have ice cream occasionally, splurge and just move on, experiment, enjoy the treats, its just so welcoming when I see so many examples in these times of extremes.
    You could gain 20 lbs and still be great and still work it out later down the road. Rest up girl!
    I have a question for you. I eat about 4-5 tbsps of almond butter and peanut butter a day, and I sprinkle seeds on a lot of stuff. Do you think this is overdoing the nuts and stuff (total of 4 tbsps nut butter and maybe at least one-third cup nuts and seeds). Thanks for any insights.
    Alicia

  • Cathy
    November 1, 2009 at 9:15 am

    You should be able to do mat pilates while your ankle is healing! Almost everything is on your back, stomach or side; and its really just yoga that works your core more. Hope it feels better soon!

  • Kim
    November 1, 2009 at 9:25 am

    Hi, Jenna, thanks for sharing your inspiring attitude towards not being able to work out. I think it’s a good reminder for people who may be stuck in that “all or nothing” mindset and beat themselves up when circumstances don’t allow them to keep it up… I sort of went through that during my various periods of living abroad, when I couldn’t always exercise. At first I felt so guilty, indulging in delicious food and wine and not running it off… then I realized, hey, wait a minute, I get to live abroad and eat delicious food! Softer or not, I’m going to enjoy it! 🙂

  • Chloe (Naturally Frugal)
    November 1, 2009 at 9:30 am

    Thanks for the update on your ankle & health Jenna! It’s great to hear that you’re not stressing about gaining weight or “eating too much” because that is such a waste of your energy & time. It’s also interesting to hear that your body has figured itself out and is saying “hey, I’m not as hungry because I’m not running a bajillion miles a day so I’m not going to eat”. I think the most important thing is to listen to your body, which you obviously do quite well.
    Hope you heal fast and are able to incorporate more yoga & other forms of exercise into your routine again!

  • Leah @ Simply fabulous
    November 1, 2009 at 9:33 am

    I really appreciate your honesty and your approach to healthy living! Thanks for addressing this! I was concerned about your ankle and I am glad that you are staying off of it! Life is meant to be enjoyed and fulfilling….5 pounds does not make or break you!

  • Katie
    November 1, 2009 at 9:42 am

    IF your enjoying life don’t worry. I love your positive outlook on life. So jealous of the TJs run I want one in KC badly. I go crazy without working out too because I enjoy it I try not to make it about weight loss it makes it lose the fun. I hope you get back to yoga soon.

  • Liz
    November 1, 2009 at 9:43 am

    Great attitude about your injury. When I broke my foot 2 years ago I was a mess because I couldn’t run. I put on about 10 pounds….but it all came off really quickly once it was all healed and I started working out. Also, I came back and got in even better shape then before. I hope you get back at it soon! And yay for the holiday season!

  • Lara
    November 1, 2009 at 9:49 am

    My foot injury has prevented me from normal workouts and walking for the past two months and I also found my appetite was waaay reduced compared to when I was really exercising. It is hard at first but I have come to accept it and enjoy the down time. I too worried about how I have gotten out of shape somewhat during this down time but there will always be time to build back up. Unlike you however, I I have had to take my caloric intake down or I would have gained. 5 lbs on your tall/lean frame isn’t much at all. 5 lbs on my short frame is a whole size and can’t afford to outgrow my clothes. You must have a great metabolism if you only gained 5 lbs from all the wonderful, rich food you have been eating and the wine combined with reduction of activity. Your attitude is inspiring.

  • Hannah
    November 1, 2009 at 9:50 am

    Thank you for your post regarding your ankle. That was EXACTLY what I needed to read after a rather rough morning spent facing where I am right now with my eating disorder.

  • Jessica @ How Sweet It Is
    November 1, 2009 at 9:53 am

    Wonderful outlook. It is a great thing to be happy with yourself and love your body – while still enjoying yourself in every possible way!

  • Olga @ Healthing It
    November 1, 2009 at 9:57 am

    That salad looks great! And I also love the wheat thins, they make a great addition to a tuna melt as well!

    Hope your ankle gets better and you’re able to exercise soon!

  • Tay
    November 1, 2009 at 9:57 am

    Well said Jenna!! I’ve been in the same boat with exercising and eating, and I also found that my hunger calmed down with no exercise. Sure, I was still hungry for meals, but not as hungry for snacks. And I could easily fill up on smaller portions. One main thing I noticed was that I wasn’t waking up in the morning ravenous!

  • Evan Thomas
    November 1, 2009 at 10:07 am

    “I’d rather weigh 5 lbs more and enjoy my life the way I like to (by eating fine food and drinking aaamazing wine) rather than restricting myself and just eating carrots and broccoli. Life is meant to be enjoyed and savored, and for the first time in a long time, I am really enjoying life again.”
    Amen to that!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes)
    November 1, 2009 at 10:21 am

    I hear you on the wanting to exercise but not being able to. When I injured my back over a year ago and then my hip recently and it was horrible. But I’ve learned to balance it and that a few weeks off will no hurt me. Glad it’s feeling better.

  • Andee (LAEasyMeals)
    November 1, 2009 at 10:22 am

    You have such a positive outlook on life, and you are totally right about getting right back on track once your ankle heals. It is better to let it completely heal then you can bounce right back! Life is all about balancing the setbacks with the positives 🙂

  • emily
    November 1, 2009 at 10:27 am

    Your hot sauce/hummus combos always look so tasty!

  • Emma
    November 1, 2009 at 10:34 am

    I LOVE YOU JENNA!
    🙂

    What you said is so, so true. Your positive attitude and outlook are so refreshing! I got my wisdom teeth out this summer and for a week or two my usual exercise routine was non existent. It was so hard for me, being quite active like you, and unfortunately I did freak out a couple of times. 🙂

    I really think it’s awesome that you aren’t freaking out about a couple weeks off like I was. Keep it up!!!

  • Allie
    November 1, 2009 at 10:47 am

    You are truly a healthy living instpiration- you have a wonderful attitude and outlook that is so often missing in women your age; i certainly did not have the insight you had at your age, and i wish i did, to enjoy and embrace life. thank you for sharing such a healthy attitude with everyone.

  • Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun)
    November 1, 2009 at 10:47 am

    I know how frustrating it feels to be sidelined with injury, but it is sometimes your body’s way of demanding a vacation from physical activity. Rest is a required part of maintaining fitness and healing!

    Your attitude about weight loss/gain is so awesome, reasonable, and healthy. I think being weight obsessed is far more detrimental to one’s health (and psyche!) than putting on a little bit of weight here and there. You look great, and your food has been so fun to watch since you moved to CA!

  • eatmovelove
    November 1, 2009 at 10:54 am

    I hate how people’s thought stream immediately jump to gaining weight or whatever when someone can’t exercise…I exercise for health and to feel good and think we need to get away from this body image thing. So, yes, I love your outlook 🙂
    Not to mention, you shouldn’t dramatically change your eating habits because you can’t run right now – your body needs fuel to heal your ankle AND for the busy life you lead.
    Food is meant as fuel, but also to be enjoyed and a social thing. There’s a stigma about that – but honestly sometimes you can just eat a cookie because it’s there y’know – and not because your starving 🙂
    Here’s to your ankle (from your on-line PT 🙂 )

  • Peanut Butter Bliss
    November 1, 2009 at 10:54 am

    dear jenna,
    i love you. haha seriously though, that last paragraph just touched me. I love that you say 5 pounds IS NOT THAT BIG OF A DEAL because life really is too short and its just not worth stressing over a couple of pounds. your enjoying your life and thats all that should matter. I respect you so so so much for that paragraph you have no idea.

  • Peanut Butter Bliss
    November 1, 2009 at 10:57 am

    im not sure if this posted but
    dear jenna,
    i love you! haha seriously that paragraph is just so so so meaningful!! I love that you mention 5 pounds is not worth stressing over as long as you are enjoying your life!! your a fabulous role model and I have SO much more respect for you than I already did. yay you 😀

  • Steph
    November 1, 2009 at 11:19 am

    I love your attitude! After an indulgent holiday yesterday, I wasn’t feeling my best this morning. After reading your post, you helped me remember what is important in this life and it’s not all about food/weight/appearance. Thank you for bringing me back to reality!!

  • Chelsea
    November 1, 2009 at 11:43 am

    I LOVE your post addressing these questions. As someone overcoming an eating disorder, your a total inspiration and perfect role model. All any of us should want is to be happy and enjoy our lives. Your doing just that girlie. Thanks for showing your strength and confidence to us all!!

  • angieinatlanta
    November 1, 2009 at 12:01 pm

    Jenna, I applaud your openness and honesty! And amen to enjoying life, even if it does mean a extra pound here and there!

  • Jaimejoy
    November 1, 2009 at 1:49 pm

    eatmovelove—–yes yes yes to everything you said! for god’s sake it’s five pounds, not a tumor or lump on the breast or something actually worth getting riled up over. why girls automatically think an issue needs to be made of it is the real problem, actually. seriously. we’re a lot smarter than that, aren’t we?

  • Stephanie (Surviving Chicago)
    November 1, 2009 at 2:08 pm

    I really appreciate and respect your perspective about your weight and eating habits since injuring your ankle. It is quite refreshing and I wish all women, including myself, could adopt that attitude.

  • Meghan@traveleatlove
    November 1, 2009 at 2:19 pm

    Yay for enjoying life! You are taking on a lot of amazing new things, and good food and amazing wine are very necessary!! I have the same letting go attitude toward weight. It took a looooong time, but it feels great to be comfortable and settled in your own life and skin!

  • Kristine
    November 1, 2009 at 2:23 pm

    Jenna,
    I just need to say that I am so happy that you are able to acknowledge that an extra 5 pounds is SO worth being happy and able to ENJOY LIFE. Life is way too short to obsess over a number (or a slight feeling of “softness”) haha! THANK YOU FOR THIS!

  • ari
    November 1, 2009 at 2:24 pm

    when you make your pumpkin oats, do you cook the maple syrup in with the oats or do you drizzle it on top when they’re done? i’ve never tried maple syrup on oats (weird) but every time i drizzle honey on top and mix it in, i can’t taste the honey at all! and i wanna taste the maple syrup!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca)
    November 1, 2009 at 2:54 pm

    I really enjoyed this post and your honesty! I can’t wait to hear about the 3 day event!

  • Gab*
    November 1, 2009 at 3:07 pm

    It’s great that you’re staying positive through your rehab, I think that’s half the battle! I cannot believe how fast this year is going, it’ll be Christmas before we know it!

  • simpledaisy
    November 1, 2009 at 3:37 pm

    Glad to see you’re not to hard on yourself for gaining a couple lbs!! I always gain at least 5 pounds in the winter and that’s with the same amount of exercise!! It is what it is:) Take care and i’m sure you’ll be up and running before too long~

  • Jen
    November 1, 2009 at 4:16 pm

    I love your attitude and enjoy the beautiful pictures you post of all your food. You’ve already inspired me to try a few new things. I enjoy reading about all of your adventures — thanks!

  • emily c
    November 1, 2009 at 5:18 pm

    You are an inspiration, Jenna! I love your attitude and your blog. I hope your ankle heals quickly – I’ve been there and I know how it feels! Blessings to you!

  • Katy @ These Beautiful Feet
    November 1, 2009 at 6:01 pm

    You’re awesome Jenna! I love your outlook on everything. It’s definitely most important to rest. Sometimes God puts us in a place where we have no choice but to rest because if we had it our way we wouldn’t! Hoping you heal quickly though and that you’ll be back and ready to return to yoga soon. 🙂

  • Katy @ These Beautiful Feet
    November 1, 2009 at 6:02 pm

    You’re awesome Jenna! I love your outlook on everything. It’s definitely most important to rest. Sometimes God puts us in a place where we have no choice but to rest because if we had it our way we wouldn’t! Hoping you heal quickly though and that you’ll be back and ready to return to yoga soon. 🙂

  • Morgan @ Life After Bagels
    November 1, 2009 at 6:40 pm

    Happy November to you too Jenna! I seriously cannot believe that this year is almost over. Mine has been super crazy too, but awesome at the same time, which I think you’re feeling as well . . .

  • Jessica
    November 1, 2009 at 6:55 pm

    You. are. so. amazing!! Keep taking care of yourself Jenna, your body’s going to thank you later! 🙂

    And you look absolutely gorgeous and i’m so happy for you! CA is definitely the best!! Good luck with the ankle sitch!

  • Jaya
    November 1, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    Jenna, once again, don’t stop being you! You are awesome and even moreso for addressing the kinds of things that cause us all to scratch our proverbial beards (or those of the men around us)!
    You know, I have been reading your blog for a while, and lately, the flurry of new faces, places and adventures has (for your readers at least) eclipsed any apparent weight gain and you are absolutely right, a great quality of life is the cornerstone of good health, so 5 lbs of dormant energy is no big deal..think of it as a great reserve for when you are all healed up and ready to rock. Still, it always feels good to be able to vent a bit about feeling soft, no matter how much we honor and treasure our bodies, it’s only natural (and healthy) to take notice when they change. Continue to honor the stillness, your heart and mind seem so well tuned for healing and happiness.
    Jaya 🙂

  • Tracey @ TropicalHappiness
    November 1, 2009 at 7:12 pm

    Isn’t it funny how we know what we *should* and *should not* do, yet sometimes those things are the hardest things to do? Also, I think we are all vulnerable to that bit of dread when it comes to those extra 5 lbs. But how you deal with it is all the difference- if you let those 5 lbs stop you from living, then you’ve fallen into the trap. If you are still healthy, and those five lbs are simply a result in circumstance, and you are still happy, then there is NOTHING to worry about! Also, you look fabulous… most of the time, you are the only one who can notice those extra few pounds. 🙂

  • meagan
    November 1, 2009 at 7:56 pm

    hey jenna! i didn’t read through all the comments so if this is redundant, beg pardon 🙂 i know you’re injured and are taking time off, but i wanted to recommend doing restorative or gentle yoga. restorative is yoga with tons of props–more for relaxation and emotional support and gentle is…well…i’ve never been to a gentle class where i didn’t sweat buckets. if they have some classes in the healdsburg area, i’d check it out…those times have taught me so much about my practice and myself.

  • Ilana
    November 1, 2009 at 11:13 pm

    try a Pilates mat class. done on the back and gentle on leg pains.

  • Ilana
    November 1, 2009 at 11:17 pm

    try a Pilates mat class. done on the back and gentle on leg pains.

  • Emily
    November 2, 2009 at 3:20 am

    I’ve been really ill the past 2 weeks and haven’t done ANYTHING in the past two weeks! I feel your pain. I’ve gained weight, but the worst part is just the inactivity. Luckily today and yesterday I have been feeling a lot better and I am hoping to get a work out in either tonight or tomorrow! Hang in there. What you are doing will make you get better faster so that you can do everything you want to when it’s better!

    Also: I’m so jealous!! That party looked awesome! 🙂

  • susan
    November 2, 2009 at 6:10 am

    amen!! i’m so glad you shared this and you’re absolutely right!! 5 lbs is not that big of a deal! i used to stress myself out about my weight fluctuating a few pounds, but it always avgs out at about the same place so what is the point of obsessing over it?! you have a really healthy attitude and i love your blog!! hope you have a speedy recovery! =)

  • diana(mymarble rye)
    November 2, 2009 at 6:57 am

    I totally feel you on the living life vs. eating healthy 24-7 thing. Your JOB consists of wine/food pairings so I understand how hard it can be. As long as you are happy and you do not have this guilt cloud over your head I’m sure you know what you are doing. BTW “jeans never lie” so if your clothes still fit I’m sure you are still beautiful!

  • Sassy Molassy
    November 2, 2009 at 10:12 am

    Great attitude Jenna! Glad you’re not ‘sweating’ about a few extra pounds and just enjoying life. You deserve it!

  • Christy
    November 3, 2009 at 11:52 am

    Hi! I have a question about your pumpkin oats — I’ve been seeing all these delicious looking recipes all over the blog world that include oats, some type of butter, fruit, etc. I just don’t know exactly how they are all prepared. What type of oats do you use? Cook them first and then add all the stuff and warm it up? Help! Thanks!