Hi!
I had a pretty productive afternoon and even got time to roam around Barnes and Noble, one of my favorite Sunday afternoon activities. I enjoyed a lovely nonfat Awake Tea Latte while getting some writing done—
Pumpkin Spice Lattes are only two days away!!!!!!! Its not Fall until you enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte, so don’t you think for a second I won’t be at Starbucks early on Tuesday morning to get mine! 🙂 In the meantime, Awake Tea Lattes are a nice treat.
I love Sundays, don’t you? I just feel like going off on a tangent for a second here to gush about this day of the week. This evening around 5:30 I poured myself a nice glass of Murphy-Goode Liar’s Dice zinfandel and chatted on the phone for an hour with an old friend. Love that.
Anyways, I made a classic Jenna meal for dinner:
I pressed and then rubbed some tofu with a mix of canola oil (out of sesame oil!), rice wine vinegar, tamari, cayenne, sea salt, garlic powder and pure maple syrup. Then, I baked the thin slices at 400 for 15 minutes on each side. They turned out perfect as usual….golden brown, spicy and delightfully chewy. I haven’t been eating enough tofu lately…I need to start!
On the side I threw together some Mediterranean quinoa! This was very easy and delicious. I cooked quinoa with water and a pinch of sea salt and then when it was done and fluffy, I stirred in some feta, diced tomatoes (drained), oregano and calamata olive slices. It.was.so.good. Seriously…the hit of the meal—my dad loved it!
Green beans on the side!
Oh, and a coconut milk ice cream sandwich for dessert 🙂
My mood has pulled a total 180 throughout the course of the day. I mean, obviously I’m bummed I can’t run for a few days but I’m also so thankful that I CAN run to begin with. I’m running this race in support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and whenever I’m feeling down about my training and injuries, I just think of the real reason why I’m doing this and it puts it all into perspective. A lot of chemo patients would kill for the chance for an early morning run, whether its 2 miles or 8 miles. Some days are challenging but I know it will all work out in the end.
Finishing up a couple more looming freelance deadlines then reading more of James.
G’nite! Got a special post in the morning for y’all!! 🙂
Kristin
August 30, 2009 at 8:18 pmI love the way you put it – it really is all about perspective. 🙂
polly
August 30, 2009 at 8:19 pmJust catching up with you, sweet friend!! I LOVE sundays! I don’t know… just time to enjoy family food and JESUS. But shoot. You can enjoy those everyday, but sundays are just something special. I hope that the Lord brings a big open present for you tomorrow in the form of a fresh day, new energy for loving his kids (that’s us) and a brand spanking new way for you to SHINE as you do so brightly!! I guess, it’s like another day is another chance to love somebody like HE did. Without that wall of fear, but with an open heart seeing them where they are NOW. I LOVE THAT!!
By the way, been eating some STINKIN AWESOME apples! Went to the orchard today with my sis-in-law and we were chomping on them tonight with loads of homemade almond butter on each slice. It’s chili, apple weather here in Indiana! Jenna, fly up here and see me!! We’ll make an apple crisp! 😀
Love you, sweetie. XOXO
Meg C.
August 30, 2009 at 8:20 pmahh i love the pumpkin spice latte! they have it starting in sept? amazing. i will have to ask for it next time!
Rachael
August 30, 2009 at 8:24 pmThis is the first time I’ve ever commented on your blog. I just have to thank you for so much Jenna! I’ve struggled with an eating disorder for over 3 years now, but over the past few months I’ve been able to turn my life around, put on weight and start being healthy again. I really believe it’s in large part due to your blog! I’ve always looked up to your attitude towards diet, exercise and everyday life. You’re an inspiration for so many people, and for that, I thank you.
Rachael
xo
Evan Thomas
August 30, 2009 at 8:28 pmI’ve never tried a pumpkin spice latte, but the more hype I read about them the more I’m dying to try one
Shannon, The Healthy Beach Bum
August 30, 2009 at 8:29 pmAw Jenna don’t worry.. you will be running in no time! Just keep listening to your body. Things will get better! Thanks so much for the pumpkin spice update 🙂 Those things are sooo addicting. Fall is in the air for sure when those begin popping up in stores.. I can’t wait for Coffee-mate seasonal creamers.. and eggnog! Ok, I’m getting way too ahead of myself lol. Have a lovely evening!
angieinatlanta
August 30, 2009 at 8:32 pmI love your new perspective on things! You have such a great attitude towards life’s obstacles!
And I LOVE pumpkin spice lattes! I can’t wait!
Lizzy
August 30, 2009 at 8:32 pmso glad to hear that your feeling better girl! 🙂
Barnes and Noble is seriously my fav thing to do when i’m alone. Theres just so much to look at!
Megan
August 30, 2009 at 8:33 pmJenna! I’m so happy your day turned out for the best!!! God is so good. And Sundays are my favorite day too. To me Sundays are such a beautiful gift 🙂 ah so Tuesday is the day for pumpkin spice latte. Sooo excited for Tuesday now haha. Your tofu and quinoa look delish. I always Love your meals! I hope you have a wonderful night live!
Chrissy
August 30, 2009 at 8:33 pmLOVED catching up with you today! Cocktail phone dates should be at least a monthly ritual. Look! I’m not Lurking! Go me! haha love ya girl.
VeggieGirl
August 30, 2009 at 8:36 pmWonderful positivity, my friend – so glad that the day shaped up for the better 🙂
Good luck with your deadlines!!
Kristie
August 30, 2009 at 8:40 pmPumpkin spice latte… believe I’ve never tried one? NUTS. One of my fall goals is to get one asap!
I haven’t made baked tofu in ages. Ridiculous! Your tofu rub sounds awesome. I need to make some, I have a craving now.
Sundays are great 🙂
Kristen
August 30, 2009 at 8:42 pmFunny, I had quinoa for dinner too! It was my first time trying it and I really liked it 🙂
Rebecca
August 30, 2009 at 8:42 pmThat quinoa looks awesome!!
And omg, pumpkin spice lattes make me sooo happy. I’ve never had one but I LOVE everything Fall! I’ll have to get one!
Sammi
August 30, 2009 at 8:45 pmIm glad you’re feeling better!!
Im pretty sure you can get a pumpkin spice latte anyday of the year though! My boyfriend works at Starbucks and he told me they can make any drink you want even if it’s a seasonal one!
Jenna
August 30, 2009 at 8:49 pmI tried tofu for the first time last night, I am a big fan!
Pumpkin Spice latte? I didn’t know that existed. I’ll have to hit up my Starbucks soon for that one.
Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope
August 30, 2009 at 9:00 pmBarnes and Noble is definitely one of my favorite stores to browse in. I can spend hours just looking through the books and getting my Starbucks fix. HOORAY FOR PUMPKIN SPICE!!! That’s one of the few good parts about the fall and the cold weather. 😉
Maria
August 30, 2009 at 9:08 pmAwesome meal! I would love to make that tofu and quinoa someday 🙂
danica
August 30, 2009 at 9:20 pmI was just wondering why you avoid using Splenda? I don’t use artificial sweeteners either but my friend does and wanted to know if they are bad for your health. And that tofu looks AMAZING!
Courtney (The Hungry Yogini)
August 30, 2009 at 9:22 pmGlad you had such a nice end to your day…Sundays are so special! Especially now that fall is creepin’ in!
Can’t wait for those Pumpkin Lattes too =)
Meg @ Megzz Wins At Life
August 30, 2009 at 9:32 pmJenna, I am so glad your mood turned around that is such a great way to think about it. My mom is going through chemo right now and there are some days she can’t get out of bed!! We all sometimes take advantage of the little things in life.. I am guilty of it.. Sometimes when I get really upset with myself I think about all of the things my mom can’t do now that she has cancer and things start to look up!! You really have a lot to offer the world girl!! Keep you head high!!
Paige@ RunningAroundNormal
August 30, 2009 at 9:37 pmSounds like a great Sunday! I love Barnes and Nobles too 🙂 Did you end up getting anything?
Sorry about your blisters. As soon as they heal, you’ll be back and running in no time 😀
Cait (Cait's Plate)
August 30, 2009 at 9:42 pmYes – I LOVE LOVE LOVE Sundays! Especially productive ones 🙂
And I know! I’m counting down the days til Pumpkin Spice Lattes!!! 😀
I love those epiphany-put-things-in-perspective moments. They’re so great 🙂 I’m glad you found a way to feel okay about the time off. You’ll still rock the race 🙂
Leianna
August 30, 2009 at 9:47 pmPumpkin Spice lattes sound amazing!
adria
August 30, 2009 at 9:51 pmabout running: true story. there are so many things that we take advantage of. it’s important to be thankful and appreciate the little things too.
Whitney
August 30, 2009 at 9:54 pm😀 Smiles to 180 degree mood turns! Love those!
Liz
August 30, 2009 at 10:01 pmCan’t wait for the special post!
Mandy A
August 30, 2009 at 10:23 pmYay for the mood turn!!! So glad to hear that!
pumpkin spice lattes are only TWO days away? Oh no… and the week I swore off starbucks! LOL
I had the same dessert tonight 🙂 too good and only 100 cals… can’t beat it!
emily - eatventures
August 30, 2009 at 10:30 pmThat how I feel about seasonal lattes too – it’s not winter until I’ve had an eggnog latte!
kay (eating machine)
August 30, 2009 at 10:44 pmmmm that so delicious stuff is amazing! i fed some to my fiance and he didnt believe it was coconut milk!
Andrea
August 30, 2009 at 10:45 pmI can not wait for pumpkin spice lattes! There is something very necessary about drinking them when fall hits (or is about to hit!). I am also anticipating the gingerbread latte and the peppermint mocha! Splurging is so necessary for this season.
Hangry Pants
August 30, 2009 at 11:04 pmI cannot wait for the pumpkin spice latte!!! It’s stating to feel like fall – cooler and breezier – here in NJ already!
Brie
August 30, 2009 at 11:37 pmMy father died of leukemia and I’m so thankful for what you’re doing! Keep fighting the good fight, Jenna.
Caroline
August 30, 2009 at 11:45 pmOh man, you have no idea how happy your pumpkin latte announcement makes me. I can’t wait for the aromas of cinnamon and cloves to waft through the air…
Jenna
August 30, 2009 at 11:49 pmcan’t wait for the special post tomorrow!!!
WholeBodyLove
August 30, 2009 at 11:52 pmI live at least 4 hours from most of my friends. Those long conversions are so special! I love talking to old friends for hours. We always have SO much to catch up on because I never have time to sit and talk.
Kat (Kat's Daily Plate)
August 30, 2009 at 11:57 pmI love quinoa with Greek salad inspired ingredients. Such a great flavor combo!
Gab*
August 31, 2009 at 12:00 amThe Mediterranean quinoa looks delicious! I’ll have to give it a try.
Greta
August 31, 2009 at 12:19 amAhhh Pumpkin Spice Lattes rock my socks too! I can’t believe they come out so soon, where did summer go?!
muffy
August 31, 2009 at 12:34 amdinner looks great.
glad you have such a positive outlook on things girly!
-muffy
Sara
August 31, 2009 at 12:40 amGlad you’re feeling better. We all could use a dose of perspective every now and then. It sound silly, but my friends were jokingly comparing their FEET – of all things – tonight, and I finally threw in, “at least you have feet!” In other news, I need to find more coconut ice cream [sandwiches].
Emily
August 31, 2009 at 1:01 amI`m not much of a Starbucks fan (or a coffee fan), but there are a couple of speciality drinks that people have repeatedly recommended me to try. One that comes out in the winter (can’t remember at the moment) and the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Since there is a Starbucks about a 5 minute walk from work, I definitely think I`ll hit it up soon. Maybe when it gets a little cooler, so I can really get in the fall mood (even though it’s already almost September!).
Kate
August 31, 2009 at 9:45 amTofu dinner looks delish. Isn’t it awesome how a good meal can change your mood entirely? Family and food does it every time for me.
Caleb
August 31, 2009 at 11:44 amI am seriously excited about the Pumpkin Spice latte. Now that this is back I just may end up drinking more coffee than I want to be consuming. Gave up caffeine completely a while back, but recently started having it a couple times a week, and I just happen to have a coupon for a free beverage. Definitely using it on this!
MarathonVal
August 31, 2009 at 12:56 pmOh my, you just made my day about the Pumpkin Spice lattes!!! Fall is my favorite – the leaves, and pumpkin EVERYTHING makes me so, so happy. Thanks for the lift! 🙂
MarathonVal
August 31, 2009 at 12:56 pmOh my, you just made my day about the Pumpkin Spice lattes!!! Fall is my favorite -the leaves, and pumpkin EVERYTHING makes me so, so happy. Thanks for the lift! 🙂
Taylor
August 31, 2009 at 6:14 pmYESSS!!! I am so excited for the pumpkin things that come with fall! Pumpkin lattes, pumpkin flavored coffees, pumpkin ice cream….BEST PART!
Rebecca
September 1, 2009 at 12:38 pmJenna your mediterranean quiona sounds delish! This is a recipe I found recently that I love! Great for the fall too! A Mediterranean version of spaghetti squash! Yum!
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spaghetti-Squash-I/Detail.aspx * 1 spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
* 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 3 tablespoons sliced black olives
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Place spaghetti squash cut sides down on the prepared baking sheet, and bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a sharp knife can be inserted with only a little resistance. Remove squash from oven, and set aside to cool enough to be easily handled.
3. Meanwhile, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic, and saute for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, and cook only until tomatoes are warm.
4. Use a large spoon to scoop the stringy pulp from the squash, and place in a medium bowl. Toss with the sauteed vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and basil. Serve warm.