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March Favorite Things

     Hello all!  This is my monthly favorites post.  This is a random list of foods, events, podcasts, movies, fashion, makeup and anything else I enjoyed throughout the month.  Here are March's picks: 

Plantain Chips

     I couldn't decide if I liked these or not so I kept eating them. I've gone through 3 bags, so I think I have to admit I like these- a lot!  They are an addictive snack food!

Career Academy

    This is the place I did my online project management course from and was very impressed. I am not a huge fan of online learning or I was not, until I did this series.  I did the 10 course series in about 2 weeks and really felt like I learned something. Each course had a review quiz an interactive exercise. My favorite was the case study on the Challenger crash.  I got this for $99 as a Groupon and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in general project management knowledge. Completing the series does give you a certificate of completion.

Flat Shoes

     Now that i have a sit/stand workstation, I am wearing a lot of flat shoes. In fact, I bought a special pair just to keep under my desk. Yes some outfits just look better with heels, but flats always win! 

Cadbury Mini Eggs

     I refer to these as Easter crack. There is just something about the creamy chocolate in the crispy hard shells. I am not usually a milk chocolate fan, but these are irresistible. Just irresistible...

Reading Reviews- March 2014

The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
 

     This author has an amazing gift at historical fiction.  He tells a story and teaches you something. This story has both a past and present narrative and an interview with the author reveals he did this to breakup the sadness of the story. There is a twist in the story that reminded me of a soap opera, but overall it was well done.

Verdict: This is a very sad sad story, but it is a good one. This is the second book I have read from this author and am interested in reading more of his books.

 

The Telling Room by Michael Paterniti

 

     I may have been too busy to give this book a fair chance, but after reading the first pages I gave up.  It just didn't catch my interest.

 

Eat, Move, Sleep by Tom Rath

 

     This is a collection of advice the author has come across when researching the "best" health practices. There are 30 short chapters that give you suggestions you can implement immediately.  The advice is quite similar to what I have found to work for my health.

Verdict: Recommend. This is a easy and useful read that could change your life.

 

Sorry, not a lot of reading this month because I was working on project management courses.

Exciting News!

Happy First Day of Spring!  This blog is about get some upgrades:

• First, the website will be moving from Blogspot to Word Press. It will have a new beautiful design and its own domain name.  
• Secondly, the blog will expand its content to include reflections, recipes and rants. That's right rants, but they will be with a productive intention. 
•  Last but certainly not least, my sister will be joining me in writing post for the blog. Stay tuned for more from Rice Kracker Girls!

In the meantime, follow us on Instagram at RiceKrackerGirls.  We are heading out to Portland this weekend for food, fun and friends. Road Trip!

Sit/Stand Workstation

   

     I have a sit/stand work station!  Oh Happy Day!  Sitting all day long has been causing me a lot of pain and costing me a lot of money at the chiropractor. About 4 months ago, I asked my boss for a modification. It took an ergonomic review and 4 months of patience negotiation, but I finally got my wish.

    I have been using the new workstation for about 2 weeks and the improvement in my well-being was almost immediate.  After the first day, I could feel the difference- less low back pain.  I also feel my overall mobility has improved- moving hurts less.

    One thing that surprised me is the dose of standing. I thought I would sit for an hour and then stand for an hour. Turns out, standing for an hour is not comfortable. Right now I find standing for 20 minutes every hour is a good balance. I also try to move around a little bit while standing i.e. shifting weight between feet or just gentle rocking. 

     My co-worker's reaction has been positive and enthusiastic. There seems to be widespread awareness that Sitting is the new Smoking   "The more you sit, the poorer your health and the earlier you may die, no matter how fit you are."  Several have even requested their own sit/stand workstation.  I kinda feel like the trend setter.

     So would I recommend a sit/stand workstation? Absolutely!  This may end up being the biggest health improvement of 2014.  What do you guys think about sit/stand workstation?  Do you have them in your workplace?

Eggplant Lasagna

     I love eggplant and am always trying to find ways to add it into dishes.  Here I use it construct a pasta-less lasagna.  It is easy and tasty!

     First. slice the eggplant and soak in salt water for 5 minutes. This helps reduce the bitterness. Especially when eggplant is not in season and at its peak flavor.  Remove slices from water and drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on baking sheet and cook in oven for 35 minutes at 400 degrees, until tender.

     While the eggplant was baking, I prepared the marinara sauce . Since I had made this earlier, I was able to defrost a portion and add 1 lb of ground beef.  I also added some dried herbs (oregano, basil and rosemary).  I let simmer on stove until the eggplant was ready.

     Then comes the fun part- assembly. I put down a slice of eggplant and generously covered with marinara sauce. Then another eggplant, etc, etc. Make as many layers as you wants. I topped with some grated cheese.

     This is a hearty meal with extra credit for veggies via the eggplant and the sauce!

2014 CrossFit Games Open First Impressions

     The CrossFit Games Open is a series of 5 workouts over 5 weeks that people from all over the world do.  This year there are over 200,000 participants!   You do the workout, post your scores online and see how you rank.  This is my second year doing the CrossFit Game Open.  Last year, I found The Open to be an challenge and encouraging. 

     This year, I am two workouts in and just not feeling the same.  Perhaps because the last workout had chest-to-bar pull-ups, which I can not do. I did my best. I put on my oly shoes, snatched up the 65 lbs bar and did 10 beautiful overhead squats.  My 14.2 workout lasted a minute and then I was done. It was discouraging.  Fortunately, I was able to cheer others on and live vicariously through their chest-to-bar pull-up victories!

     I do not mind a challenge or hard work, as long as it feels like progress. So far, it feels like a grind. Regardless, I am determined to do my best with the remaining 3 workouts.  As long as they contain movements I can actually do, I will be happy. I hope by the end of the 5 weeks I feel like a better person. Fingers crossed.  If not,  I will work on my cheer leading skill :)

Roxy Receipes

     

     Roxy continues to enjoy her "real" food diet.  She is more loving and cuddly and so full of energy. She wants to go on walks on the bike trail every day!  My sister continues to make her food in batches and freeze them. Last month I posted the Chicken Chow recipes.  This month, I share the ground beef and pork ones:

 

Ground Beef Delight

Shredded or Cubed Beef- 4 cups

Lentils (Cooked)- 1.5 cups

Potatoes- 1.5 cups

Carrots- 1.5 cups

Beef Stock- 1 cup

Water- 1.5 cups

Porky Pie

Shredded or Cubed Pork- 4 cups

Oatmeal (Cooked)- 1.5 cups

Sweet potatoes- 1.5 cups

Apples- 1.5 cups

Chicken Stock- 1 cup

Water- 1.5 cups

All of these meals are made in  a crockpot and my sister insist if you add some salt they are delicious!  Some say Roxy is spoiled, but she is just very loved!

Hello March :)

 

 

     Happy March! Spring seems to already be here, though it does not officially start til the 20th.  I am quite looking forward to a new season. I've already put away the winter clothes and shoes and got out the lighter brighter wardrobe. I've got 3 big goals for March:

• Project Management Certificate

I've been flirting with project management for years and finally made the commitment and bought an online course. I am not a known fan of online learning, but that seems to be the most popular option these days. The course package has 10 modules and I hope to finish all 10 this month.

• Sit/Stand workstation

I finally got a sit/stand station at work!  I wrote a post back in November 2013 and after 4 months of waiting, this dream has come true!  I look forward to figuring the sit/stand ratio and reporting back on this.

• CrossFit Open

5 week of 5 workouts- I am nervous, but excited.  I had a plan to work on pull-ups and then the zombie flu struck. Weeks later I still don't feel 100%. I am totally not prepared, but going to do my best. 

   
     So those are my big plans for March.  What do you have planned for Spring?

February Favorite Things

Hello all!  This is my monthly favorites post.  This is a random list of foods, events, podcasts, movies, fashion, makeup and anything else I enjoyed throughout the month.  Here are February's picks: 

Dry Shampoo  

     I know I am so late on this one. I don't know why I was resisting,  I have longer hair now and I do not want wash, dry and curl my hair every single morning. Thank you to  my sister for giving me her Oscar Blandi dry shampoo powder.  It's a game changer for getting ready in the morning.

Alba's Kukui Nut Oil

     It is winter time and my skin is dry. Lotion was not cutting it, so I turned to a body oil. I love the sweet nutty smell. Smoothing it on moisturizers and relaxes me. I have soft hydrated skin- take that winter!

Eyebrow Threading

     Nothing make me feel more put together then when I get my eyebrows done.  A threading place open near my house and I got a Groupon. I actually did not like the first visit, but after a few times, I am sold on threading over waxing. The results seem more precise and I feel well-groomed.

Nuun 

     These are tablets you add to water to get for electrolytes and vitamins. I usually used these during the summer when I am feeling really dehydrated. The dryness of winter and being sick really made these come in handy.  They come in a lot of flavors, but my favorite is Grapefruit Orange. Check out the different flavors at http://www.nuun.com/

My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding 

     This is a TLC show currently streaming on Netflix.  I felt inspired to clean my house and get my nails done. These woman love rhinestones and really who can say not to bling?  I found their cultural advise to be almost all the opposite advise of my culture- and yet I really see how it can work either way. I feel like I learned something and was very entertained.  You should check the show out.

 

Radiant Orchid

 

     This is the color of 2014 according to Pantone.  I just like purple, so I am more than happy to celebrate it all year long! Per the Pantone website, this color reflects the mood of 2014 "An invitation to innovation, modern and versatile Radiant Orchid encourages creativity and originality. Imbued with a harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and its rosy undertones emanate great joy, love and health."

 

Hope you all are well and had a wonderful month. What were some of your favorites?

Reading Reviews- February 2014

Wonder Show by Hannah Barnaby

     This reminded me a little of The Night Circus, but it was less about magic and more about finding where you fit in.  This was the author's debut novel and she definitely has storytelling talent.  I read it in 3 sittings, but only because I was forced to do other things required by life :)

Verdict: I will be on the look out for more books by this author.

Your Network is Your Networth by Porter Gale

    

     I started listening to a new podcast "Glambition" and the author was a guest.  Something about the title of the book appealed to me, so I bought it (I rarely buy books).  Each chapter has short practical exercises.  I did find myself skimming through the "real life" stories because I thought they were rather extreme examples of success (i.e. woman takes a swing dance class and then choreographs the famous Swing Khaki Gap commercial).

Verdict: This book was just what I needed to help me examine what is up with my life.  If you like stories, this book is full of it.  If not, they are easily skimmed and there is an end-of-the-chapter summary so you can double-check you didn't miss anything important.

Why Men Fake It by Abraham Morgentaler

     The author is a medical doctor but he is also I really insightful person into human nature.  I was genuine surprised at how much this book about men explored gender issues in today's changing world. The doctor explaining medical stuff with stories and humor.  I listened to this as an audio book and found myself laughing out loud.

Verdict: Great read for men and woman. Bonus-turns out chivalry isn't dead.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

     This is a book about Germany during WWII and is narrated by the Grim Reaper. As you can imagine, he was very busy during this time and pretty depressed. I didn't like it or dislike it.  It just didn't stand out as special or unique.  I feel like I have read this story before.

Verdict:  The book is about to become a movie, so there is a lot of buzz about it. I mostly likely will not see the movie.

EZ Anatomy and Physiology by Barbara Krumhardt

     It was either this or the Anatomy for Dummies and I never like the Dummy books. This book was part of channeling my inner nerd and looked manageable compared to regular anatomy textbook. I liked that each chapter had quizzes with fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice and T/F,so you got to review the chapter material three times. Although, I stopped taking the quizzes after chapter 2 :)

Verdict:  I would prefer a cartoon version with songs, but this book is in definite second place.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

     I was fortunately to get this as an audio book, read by Tina Fey! It is an autobiographical tale told with lots of exaggeration and humor.  It is almost like a comedic version of Lean In(much more relatable), giving career and life advice to woman.

Verdict: Loved it!

Soy Sauce for Beginners by Kirstin Chen

 

     I read this based on a nods from Amazon reviewers.  I really disliked the main character and found the whole story stereotypical and unrealistic. For example, her friend sleeps with the guy she is seeing and she kinda strugs it off.  Ummm no... that is not how girl code works!

Verdict: It was like I was reading a different book then the reviewers on Amazon?

A Grumpy Cat Book by Grumpy Cat

 

     I do enjoy the Grumpy Cat on people Facebook's post, so I thought this book would be a fun read.  Do you know Grumpy Cat also has his own website, TV shirts and mugs!

Verdict: Grumpy Cat's owners are brilliant!

The Complaining Challenge

 

    
     After reading this article in the Glamour March 2013 issue, I thought I would give the challenge a try- no complaining for a week.  The author felt the challenge helped her reset her thinking and even influence those around her positively. Doing the challenge just didn't work out for me, because I discovered complaining does have some noteworthy benefits:

• Complaining fosters bonding. Hi my name is Rani and I am a sugar addict.  Turns out complaining about the cupcakes and cookies in your office gives you something in common with other sugar addicts and it creates a support system. I got a FaceBook message from a friend asking for help with the extra frosting that was in her fridge.  We share out sugar shame moments and get through them one cookie at a time.

• Complaining can facilitate productivity. I was talking with someone on the phone this week and mentioned I was getting over the flu, so was she.  We whined in solidarity for a moment and she totally went out of her way to help me with my request. 

• Complaining can start a friendship.  I've worked with someone for the past 3 years and have never really said more then hi. This week she had the zombie flu and I can empathize. So we have been checking on each other all week and have talked probably more than the entire time we've worked together.

• Complaining can encourage others.  I see this at CrossFit all the time. You see a workout and think that looks hard and then someone else bigger and stronger says "that is gonna suck" and immediately you feel better. Whew if they think it sucks, maybe I am not so weak.

     There was one situation this week in which not complaining was definitely beneficial. My co-worker announced she accepted another position and guess who would be getting a portion of her workload- me!  Perfect opportunity to not complain and so I didn't. I said "well if I have to do extra work, I am glad it is payroll." That helped managed my stress about the new workload.

     I think complaining is part of being human and if used correctly can really generate some positive social connections. I did try a few days of not complaining and honestly I felt insincere. Like I was being overly optimistic, almost to the point I was lying.  When it comes to complaining less is more, but some is good.

What do you think? Could you go a week without complaining? And would that be a good thing?

Bison Burgers

     What does bison taste like?  Not like chicken :)  It taste very similar to beef.  It is sweeter, lighter and not gamely.  It is good.I was thrilled to find ground bison at Costco!  So I made up some burgers:

Seasoning:

1 lb ground bison
1 tsp sea salt

1 tsp onion powder

.5 tsp black pepper

.5 tsp garlic powder

Preparation:

Mix ingredients together in bowl and form patties.

Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side

     For something a little extra I made a caramelized topping by sauteing shallots with honey and a dash of cayenne pepper.  Give the cows a break and try some bison. Yum!

Feeding the Inner Nerd

   

      Lately, my inner nerd has been longing to learn something new.  I tried to get into a Project Management class and that did not work out. So my next choice was anatomy. My inner nerd is random like that!  Turns out I will be studying both.

     First up, I got a Baron's EZ Anatomy and Physiology book.  I've tried studying anatomy before- even got the coloring book, but I could never stay focused.  This book is basic and has quizzes at the end of each chapter, so I should be able to do it. My goal is to get through all 23 chapters in February and then move onto Kinesiology. Kinesiology for Dummies is not yet published yet- I am not even kidding- I hope it comes out in March though.

     After missing the registration for an online community college class in Project Management, I found an online class through Career Academy.  I actually found it through Groupon for $99. The series of 14 classes are online videos and exams.  I have a year to complete and will get a certificate. So take that community college! Seriously, though I am excited. I have been wanting to get a Project Management certificate for several years and this seems like a a perfect storm of opportunity. Fingers crossed.

     Learning is my version of having a hobby. This is probably why I like to read so much. Also, my MBA is 5 years "old" now and I just feel like it is time for some new goals. Wish me luck!

Roxy Recipe- Chicken Chow

     

     

     Roxy is getting a culinary upgrade to real food! No more highly processed dog kibble. The vet found a heart murmur, 3 leaky heart valves and mentioned putting her on high blood pressure medication.  Rather than spend $$$ on heart meds, my sister and I decided Roxy's diet would change.  Diet changes work in people with heart problems- right?  I know this sounds expensive, but how much can a 7lb dog eat?

      

     My sister came up with recipes, made them in batches and froze individual portions. She swears if you add some salt, humans can enjoy it too. Here is a sample recipe:

 Chicken Chow

Shredded or Cubed Chicken- 4 cups

Brown Rice (Cooked)- 1.5 cups

Carrots-1 cup

Cauliflower- 1.5 cups

Peas- .5 cup

Chicken Stock- 1 cup

Water- 1.5 cups

Cook in crockpot for 4-6 hours.  .

     

     Roxy is thrilled to be on a real food diet! Her eyes light up at meal time.  It's only been 3 weeks but already she has increased energy and less itching.  Also, Roxy has become quiet talkative- this from a dog that hardly barks.  We got 6 months til the vet sees her again and we are hoping to a healthier and happier Roxy. 

     I'll be posting updates and sharing additional Roxy recipes. Do any of you already feed your pets real food diets?  If not, your dog really wants you to read these links and consider ditching the kibble.

• The Best Dog Food  
• Feeding Your Dog Real, Fresh Food
• My Dog Eats Paleo

Advice From a Sickie

     The flu is hitting California hard this year. Since December, it seemed people around me have been getting sick and then getting sick again and then sometimes again. Now it is my turn and still  sickness snuck up and surprised me? I am very good at denying that I am sick. I was excessively tired and had body aches (everything from my teeth to the arches of my feet hurt). Then I had to take Claritin for my "allergies."  It wasn't until my chest hurt from breathing, that I realized I was sick.

     Of course once you acknowledge it, the symptoms snowball!  So I have spent the past 7 days resting and trying not to get "more" sick.  This is a weird combination of symptoms: body aches, very cold, chest congestion, tired. Basically, my body is dragging, but my mind is sharp and getting bored from all this resting. Usually I can sleep sickness off, but not this time. This time is serious.

     I don't know how I manage to ignore that I am getting sick every time? I am writing this blog post in hopes I learn to pay better attention.  If I could go back to last week when I started not feeling good, I would take Vitamin D, get rest and drink some grass-fed bone broth. Instead, I pushed forward with my schedule, chastising myself the whole time for being weak.

     Health is the greatest thing and should be safeguarded.  So if you are feeling a little run down, give yourself some TLC. Experts say the flu season will go through February and March, so please take care of yourselves and each other. If you are sick, stay at home. We have to stop passing this flu around!  Hope you are all in good health :)

P.S. I did get the flu shot this year and I am still sick. So don't think you can slack off on self-care if you go the shot too.

Hello February 2014 :)

   

     One month into the new year already!  How are things going? Are you keeping your resolutions?  This year I didn't make resolutions instead I had a "themes" of Simplify and also to Be Deliberate. So I thought I would do a check-in on how that is going.

     Simplify has been quite easy. After months of being over-busy, I was ready to downsize my schedule.  I started making a daily to-do list (cause I like to check off items) to help get the most important things done.  One surprise is that you can do only the things on your to-do list and still be tired. I thought that doing only what is important would exempt me from that. Magically thinking- I know. Some days are still busy, but at least I know I am working on priority stuff.

     Be Deliberate has been a game changer in my stress level. Instead of worrying and worrying I think about what I have control over, make the best decision I can and then stop worrying about it. For example, I wanted to register for an online class but needed a special permission code from the instructor. I called. I emailed. No response. So I let it go and just accepted that it was not meant to be. Basically, I do whatever is in my control to change or affect my fate and I let the universe take care of the rest.

     Themes have been incredible effective at keeping me on track and bringing peace into my life. Sorry if this sounds a little new age, but it really works. I hope 2014 is treating you well so far.  How are you resolutions going?

Need a Quick Dip Recipe?

 

     I am not a football fan, but even I know Superbowl Sunday is coming.  If you need a  quick dip recipe, this post is for you!  It involves cream cheese and a sweet chili sauce. I got both from Trader Joe's. Simply blend the two together and you have a creamy, sweet and spicy dip.  Serve with pretzel chips or tortilla chips.   An easy and delicious Yum!

January Favorite Things

     Hello all!  This is my monthly favorites post.  This is a random list of foods, events, podcasts, movies, makeup and anything else I enjoyed throughout the month.  Here are January's picks:

Truffle Salt 

This is the perfect seasoning for soups, veggies, meat, anything really.  This flavorful finishing salt gives winter dishes a rich earthy taste.  During the cold months, I just keep it on the counter and add to everything.

Yerba Matte Tea

My favorite way to start a work day is to brew a cup of loose leaf tea, even better if it is Yerba Matte.  It gives you a caffeine and chocolate boost.  The loose leaf version, allows for multiple brewing, so I have up 3 cups of this a day.  (Of course, I still have coffee- this does not replace coffee!)

Whip Stick  from Lush Cosmetics

My lips are being wrecked by the cold weather and my usual chapstick is just not cutting it. Thank goodness for this lip balm. Did I mention I have the chocolate flavored one?  Yeah...that might have something to do with it being a favorite.

Welcome to Nightvale Podcast

I talked about this in my Favorite Podcast posts. I discovered it in December and in 3 days had listened to all 37 back episodes.  I can hardly wait for the 1st and 15th of each month now, to find out what happens next.  If you like dark and weird humor, give it a try.

Blackfish  

A moving and informative documentary on orcas in captivity. It focuses on the infamous orca,  Tilikum, who has been involved in the deaths of three people.  Orcas have always freaked me out, probably because they are usually called Killer Whales, but this movies does a wonderful job highlighting their intelligence and social bonds. It is a tear-jerker, but also thought-provoking. It is currently on Netflix, if you are interested.

Sactown Throwdown

This is the largest CrossFit competition in the Sacramento region.  Last year it was held in the dirt at the Placerville Fairgrounds, this year it moved on up to the Sleep Train Area. It was awesome to see CrossFit growing and cheer the CrossFit Centurion teams!

Icing on the Cupcake: 

Cupcakes!This is a local business, that unfortunately closed it doors this month. My sister and I went one last time to enjoy a freshly-backed gourmet cupcake, but they had already closed..  In honor of these delicious cupcakes, the monthly favorites posts will feature a picture of these beautiful treats. Miss you already Icing on the Cupcake!

That's it for January.  What did you enjoy this month?

Reading Reviews- January 2014

Becoming a Supple Leopard by Dr. Kelly Starrett

     I finally got this book for Christmas!  It is all about optimizing movement.  The book is a really nicely laid out with photos and explanations of common CrossFit movements. I really liked the first half of the book and read it thoroughly. The second half, I skimmed because it was about improving flexibility and I am pretty darn flexible.

Verdict: A wonderful reference books, which I will probably refer to for the rest of my life.

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri

     I almost stopped reading this book,but I am glad I kept reading. The beginning just didn't catch my interest.  It is a beautiful sad and happy story of a family and how they deal with the loss of a member.  How his memory haunts and really causes some people to not live out the rest of their lives to its fullest potential.

Verdict:  This author knows how to write captivating stories that leave you thinking, thinking, thinking.

 

The Light in the Ruins by Chris Bohjalian

 

     This book was kinda creepy. It starts with the perspective of a serial killer and then recounts war time situations.  It is a  very well structured story that intertwines two timelines.  It also has a mystery component and it was fun trying to guess who the killer was. 

Verdict: I really enjoyed it and could barely put the book down once I started reading it.  Reccomend (if you aren't squimish).

Whole by T. Colin Campbell

 

     This is Dr. Campbell's follow-up to the China Study, in which he reccomends a whole food plant based diet (no meat, no thanks).  However, I can agree with him that nutrition is one of the most important contributors to good health and that our current health system is really a disease management system. While he does discuss his diet reccomendation, the main point of this book is to call out the goverment, the media and pharmacuetical companies for hiding the truth.  Bottom line: good nutrition is a a better than any man-made drug.

Verdict: Dr. Campbell is 79 years old and in this book he just lays his opinions out and I do admire that.  Go Dr. Campbell!  That said, this book is not an easy read. I listened to it as an audio book and I only got through about half.

 

Rowing for Crossfitters by Marc Monplaisir

 

     I am not a good rower, so I thought this would help.  It doesn't actually talk about rowing, just how to use the rowing machine.

Verdict: If you have a rowing machine, all this information is probably in the manual. If you don't have the manual, you can figure it out without this "book."