Today has been weird ....

Funk.

Just hearing ... BLAH.  BLAH.  BLAH. 

From anyone that I've come in contact with and from myself. 

BLAH.  BLAH.  BLAH. 

I'm going to be 40 years old at the end of May.  40 years old.  Truthfully,  I don't feel any different than I did at 20 years old.  Okay .. my face didn't feel like this physically at 20 years old.  I contracted Bells Palsy while pregnant with my oldest and have nerve damage and other symptoms hanging around from that.  Is this where I wanted to be in life?  What do I want to do with my life?  Where do I want my family to go from here?  What do I really want for my family?  Did I expect my life to be like this at 40 years old? 

There are many more questions rolling around in there.  Shouldn't a 40 year old have answers to these questions?  Shouldn't a 40 year old have some type of clarity?  IDK.  Maybe it is just the day.  Maybe it is the beginnings of a midlife crisis.  IDK. 

I came across these two pictures this afternoon ......

They didn't help matters.  AT ALL!  The top is Vacation 2011.  The bottom is Vacation 2012.  Other than my parents being gone and the kids are bigger .. nothing else is different.  Who am I kidding?  I don't look any different.  I feel different.  I feel like I look different.  Guess not.  I know the only person that really cares is me.  Maybe this is what I needed to find today?  Maybe not?  I know it bothers me.  And I'm really tired of talking about it.  Again, it is all just BLAH, BLAH, BLAH. 

More action. 

Less BLAH, BLAH, BLAH. 

Sad thing is this is the easy part of my day. 

Answering the first group of questions is the harder part. 

BLAH, BLAH, BLAH. 

   

Jennifer

A little random information about yours truly! 

1.  My name is Jennifer.  I was named after the song Jennifer Juniper by Donovan.  Momma was a big fan.  And yes, I have the song on tape! 

2.  I have in irrational fear of clowns and monkeys.  I'm a blast in the primate exhibit at the zoo.    And there isn't a chance in the world that I will take my kiddos to the circus.  With my luck there would be a clown with a dancing monkey!  THE HORROR! 

There is a back story ... back in the 70's they manufactured these little battery operated toy monkeys that banged cymbals together while their eyes and mouth opened.  My loving uncle, god rest his soul, thought I would love one.  Only problem was they came in many versions.  He choose one that when turned on not only banged cymbals but his eyes and teeth glowed red from a colored light bulb that was in him.  And he was dressed like a "little clown".  While I love my Uncle Dick with all my heart that was by far the WORST gift ever and it apparently scarred me for life. 

3.  I have 19 first cousins.  Maternal side, I am 3rd to the oldest out of the 7 of us.  Paternal side, I am 3rd to the youngest out of the 16 of us. 

4.  Stupid things make me laugh. 

5.  This is my before picture and it hangs on the refrigerator. 

6.  I like short hair.  That isn't correct.  I love super short hair.  Bald is no biggie for me.  The shorter my hair the more confident I feel.  I had always wanted to shave my head.  IDK why.  One day, back in 2002 while my husband was away, I pulled out the clippers and shaved my hair to a 1/4 inch length.  It was 100% liberating.  You learn a lot about yourself when there is nothing to "hide" behind.  Since that day, I've shaved it at least 10 times.  And yes, I did work at that time.  In a office setting.  Did I worry about what work would say ... not at all.  I can remember the woman who worked closest to me saying "You finally did it!" 

7.  I like working out.  I like being physical.  I like lifting weights.  I like being strong. 

8.  This is my family at their finest.  Yes, my husband always acts like a "goof-ball".  Seriously! 

9.  I have 10 nieces and nephews...in order.  Anthony (23) who graduates from Youngstown State University with a degree in Engineering this December!  Amanda (22) attending the University of Akron for nursing.  Nathan (21) a new father, working, and attending college.  Stephanie (19) attending the University of Akron for pharmacy.  Ashley (19) attending West Liberty University for dental hygiene.  Emily (12) attending 8th grade and playing soccer all year long.  Alyson (8) enjoying school and soccer.  Meghan (7) enjoying school and cheering her sister Emily.  Abigail (7) enjoying school and chocolate ... she LOVES chocolate.  And Jake (5) enjoying bothering his sisters, Alyson & Abigail, along with playing tee-ball and flag football.  The majors listed are what I knew of last .. we all know how majors can change.  And I hope all the ages are right!  They start to run together after a little while!  These are all in my hubby's side....he is 4th of 5 children.

10.  I love Sauconys for running.  Nothing else will do for my feet and legs. 



Future installments to come at random intervals!  LOL 

Misc Thanksgiving Weekend Pics

Just a hodge-podge of Thanksgiving pictures so far............

 

My kiddos pies!  Left is Muscles...he used blackberries that we picked a froze this year.  Right is Killers...she used blueberries. 

Out Tom before he went into the oven!  Yummy! 

Off to the East Palestine Turkey Trot! 

Support staff!  Other member went to the restroom .......

Grandma waiting for the awards ceremony.  Not only did she PR in 34:22 but she won her age group!

There Breretons' patiently waiting and clapping for all the winners........

Killers new skirt!  Who needs a $40.0 store bought skirt?  Made this for $11.49. 

She is THRILLED!  Now onto the other four!  Each and every single one is different! 

White Chili?

Yeah, this is probably an item that each and every single one of you have tried.  But surprisingly today was a first for the Brereton clan.  If I had to give it another name it would be "Glorified Soup Beans".  The kiddos wanted a different "soup" type dinner this weekend.  And they both love bean soups.  You name and these two will eat it.  I remembered that we had some ground chicken in the freezer.  I always have an assortment of dried beans.  I read a few recipes and thought well this is pretty darn easy.  Not rocket science by any stretch of the imagination.  And I've made regular chili more times that I can count. 

I set out with two pounds of Great Northern Beans.  Rinsed and cooked them until they were soft.  I browned the ground chicken with a little crushed garlic clove and sliced green onions.  Added that to the pot.  The kiddos wanted a few potatoes in it.  I put them in.  Peeled and cubed about 5 or 6 of them.  They also thought a little corn, grated carrot, and sliced celery sounded good.  What the heck?!  I added it.  Once all of the ingredients were in the pot, I covered with water and one box of Natures Basket Organic chicken stock.  Along with some salt and pepper!  Cook away! 

We were to have this last night for dinner but with me being gone all day...well...nothing was done to it other than continue to be heated.  It tasted pretty darn good as is.  But I added a little more chicken stock and celery.  Cook.  Cook.  Cook.  We placed it in our bowls and here is a picture .....

The kiddos thought that grated cheese sounded good as a topping.  I also added a little chopped green onions.  They loved it.  Hubby loved it.  Will be on the menu again.  This really could be done in many variations!  Easily could be done in the crock-pot.  And will try next time with out the potatoes.  I use potatoes in my regular chili sometimes.  It is just some a thing that my Dad always did and he said they ate growing up.  Someone once, rudely, commented that it must have come about from having 8 kids and not enough money to feed them.  Had to make it spread around is what they said about my fathers family.  This person was never invited back for dinner.  Was it my Grandmothers fault that her husband passed away?  I think not.  And I seriously doubt that was the reason for the usage of potatoes!

But that is a story for another day!  If you are a soup lover, by all means, give this one a try.  Served up with a little beer bread today.  But corn muffins would be excellent also.  Going to freeze the leftovers for later in the season.  I see this as a wonderful meal after coming home from the kiddos wrestling matches!  Dropped in the crock pot before we leave.  All ready for consumption when we return. 

What can a year do .. part 8

It is the 11th month and I'm only on part 8.  Better late than never....right?!  LOL

Here is my monthly number report.  Not gonna lie.  Still struggle with food.  Either eat way not enough or all is good.  I'm trying to log into myfitnesspal regularly but I so hate it.  Honestly.  I can't lie.  If you haven't already realized how much I hate it ... I hate it!  I don't like listing my food.  And trying to figure out what my workouts would be considered.  UGH! 

Done with the pity party.....

I have logged in more this past month than ever before.  I'm enjoying changing my "diet" up a little.  With wanting more calories, I have been consuming real salad dressing.  Kinda nice for a change.  I still stick with balsamic vinaigrette most of the time but I kinda like being able to throw a French or what ever in there every so often. 

Workouts have been going well.  I still enjoy Les Mills Pump.  And I've been "nose to the grindstone" about the Speedier 5K program that I joined.  Getting excited about next weeks race.  And the Crossfit workouts.  Well, they may kill me.  I'm not joking.  I have never had my chest and shoulders hurts as much as they did after one of these workouts.  More like torture sessions.  I won't stop.  I know the pay off is coming. 

So here are my pics for this month .... please excuse the non-cropping of the photos and my hat.  For some reason when cropped they become no longer available.  IDK why?  Me and electronic devices don't really get along. 

Honestly, do I look like I do what I do?  English was not my major.  Please don't judge me on that.  LOL!  I feel like I look like I do what I do!  And that is what is most important! 

This picture came up really big at first.  It made me realize something.  I do have one body image issue.  I am seriously gonna have "turkey neck" when I get older.  Nothing can be done.  I don't know a Grimm or Kuhar family member without a double chin.  Guess it could be worse.

Hubby wanted to take a picture of my kickin' calf muscles.  See the definition between the two heads coming out.  Really the only thing this picture shows is that I need lotion.  Badly! 

Last time around was on 10-10-12 and here are those numbers followed by today's ......

Chest  37 1/4
Waist  36
R bicep  14
L bicep  13 3/4
R thigh  23 3/4
L thigh  23 1/2
R calf   15 1/4
L calf  15 1/2
And the weight was .. drum roll .. has it ever changed?  190

Today .....

Chest 37
Waist  36
R bicep  14 1/2
L bicep  14
R thigh  23 1/2
L thigh  23 1/4
R calf  15 1/4
L calf  15 1/4
And the weight .. drum roll .. 187!  Shut the front door!  It moved!  It moved!  After 11 months of being 190 .. wow down 3 lbs!  Down in clothing sizes.  Down in measurements.  Still considered obese!  I could really care less what this number says. 

I feel great.  I plan to work myself right on into the holidays and through out.  No excuses!  No more excuses!  I may not always post but I always do the work.  If I don't .. I own it and I report it.  Some days, well, I feel like the shrinking lady.  I love seeing new things.  Like right now sitting here typing .. well .. I can see my triceps in the mirror.  I like it.  Yes, I am strange.  I feel good.  I feel really good.  And on Tuesday at Zumba someone asked me if I was a runner.  It felt really weird saying "Yes." 

If I could video myself dancing to James Browns .. I feel good!  I would.  Moving forward.  Head down putting in the work. 

We all know this series is gonna go past the one year mark.  I'm excited to see what comes of it all.  I'm anxious to see what comes in the new year.  One thing is for sure .. no matter what .. I'm already a champion!   
 

Comfort Zone

 

You know there are times where the comfort zone is amazing!  But honestly, sticking around the comfort zone isn't gonna make you grow.  So we have to make different choices.  Strike out in different areas. 

I started out doing Biggest Loser dvds.  Then walking was added.  Around the corner was P90X.  The list could go on.  One thing has rang true through all my adventures.  I'm usually alone.  I workout by myself.  I run by myself.  All at my own pace.  At my discretion.  And frankly, I kinda like it.  Comfort zone maybe? 

Then entered Zumba.  Honestly, it was my first foray into the workout world with others.  Yeah, I know we all go at our own pace.  And truthfully, I can be kinda quiet and hard to read.  But I stand there in "class" and listen to every ones conversations.  Yes, I do hold conversations sometimes.  I hear women complain about this person or that person.  I listen to work troubles.  I listen to relationship troubles.  I have excellent hearing ... and have been told this by many a Dr. 

One thing this class has shown me is why I like being on my own.  I don't hear any of that crap when I'm on my own!  Who am I gonna complain about?  Some of the time, I flash back to high school.  Yes, even as adults women seem to have "clicks".  And honestly, it drives me crazy!  But I will not give in.  I will not give up.  I will continue.  And today .. well .. I jumped out of the box again.  I invited some people over to workout.  Heck, I'll even go where ever they want to go. 

Get this!  Starting next Wednesday, I will be taking a RawFIT class at a local gym.  I'm jumping out there.  Putting myself out there.  You never know .. maybe I'll even make a friend or two.  Then maybe, just maybe, after the beginning of the year .. I'll really go out of the comfort zone.  Maybe I'll look for a running club or a running partner. 

That makes me nervous .... out of the comfort zone .... out of the comfort zone. 

Always a good thing! 

JJ Patsey Memorial 5K

Good evening!  Today was the first annual JJ Patsey Memorial 5K.  JJ Patsey was a young man that passed away from Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma on November 8, 1989 at the age of thirteen.  For the past 22 years, a scholarship has been awarded to a Lisbon graduating senior who plans to pursue a career in the field of medicine.  This young man was few years ahead of my brother in school and his father was a guidance counselor/vice principal at Southern Local schools where I attended ... back in the day.  His father has always been a runner and JJ was an athlete.  This race was started in his honor and they plan to run it yearly at the beginning of November.   

Upon hearing about this event, I knew it had to be a family affair.  Plus, not to lie or lighten things but registration was made for families.  The first participant was $13.00 and any remaining family members that competed were $5.00.  So, I quickly asked the Brereton clan if they were interested.  Hubby .. check.  Muscles .. check.  Killer .. check.  Forms were completed.  Check was made out.  Stamp was attached.  And off it went! 

Our plan going in was for my hubby to run with Muscles.  I would take care of Killer.  I deal with her complaining a little better than Daddy does.  LOL  Which meant that there were NO TIME PLANS FOR ME!  Then on Tuesday of this week, Killer informed me that she did not want to run.  I didn't give in easily but I wasn't going to argue.  She knows if she is ready and it was only $5.00 for a worthy cause.  And after running today ... I am so thankful that she didn't go for it.

On Friday evening, at wrestling practice, my son hurt his leg.  We kind of blew it off.  But now I'm wishing that we wouldn't have.  He was gimpy last night .. thought it would get better for this morning.  He was gimpy this morning .. said it didn't feel any better but wanted to go and run.  After a quick "parent meeting" .. we let him.  Never really getting a good feel for what part of his leg was hurting.

I set out to run a nice easy race and just enjoy myself.  Seriously!  I just wanted to see Muscles come across the line.  He had a time goal that he wanted.  Honestly, he wanted to beat Snows (my brothers fiance) Wineglass 5K time.  I know he can do it.  But it wasn't gonna happen today.  Maybe on Thanksgiving.   

RUNNER PICTURE! 



Start.  Not bad for a first time....several running groups and X-country teams. 

My cousin, Kristy starting her race.  Along side her is her friend, Dana. 

This was taken right before entering the football stadium to finish.  I wasn't really waving at the camera.  As I rounded the corner ... Hadley started crying.  I was yelling .. "As long as the bone isn't showing, you are just fine!"  I sat out for an easy little jaunt.  No time thoughts what so ever.  I didn't stretch a whole lot and after yesterdays Crossfit workout .. well .. my hamstrings and butt were hurting.  The race was off.  My Garmin battery died at the start line....this is becoming an issue.  As I passed my Momma and daughter it was tossed off to them.  No use wearing it if it doesn't work! 

At each mile, well 1 & 2, there was a timer spouting off times as you crossed.  We shot down the hill, through the square, and up a back street.  I knew my pace was faster than normal.  Honestly, I felt like I had a real stride.  As I ran by .. and no one else was around .. the timer looked at me and said 9:04.  WHAT!  WHAT!  WHAT!  I shockingly said "Are you sure?!"  To which she replied "100%".  New mile PR.  I had a quick thought of slowing down.  Even though I had no preset time goal .. once I was on my own .. 10:15 to 10:30 was what I wanted per mile.  But I felt good.  I kept at it. 

We rounded onto the Greenway Bike Trail.  A lot of it is in the shade.  It was wet.  Portions covered in leaves.  And there is a little mossy growth.  With one step...my front foot slid out in front of me.  My right knee extended.  UGH!  But I recovered .. basically felling like an ice skater but worried that I looked like an idiot!  As we rounded a quick turn around 1 3/4 miles, I thought about my guys.  I knew there was an approximate 200 yard section that I would be able to view them in....if they were there.  I turned the corner.  Ran 1/2 way up the hill.  And started to look.  Nowhere in sight.  I wanted to cheer for my little guy.  I made a Mommy decision and stopped running.  Heck, I stopped walking.  I waited. 

One minute.  Two minutes.  Three minutes.  Four minutes....these times are not exact.  It truly felt like 10 minutes!  There is an orange shirt.  Please let this be my hubby.  20 seconds.  30 seconds.  I started jogging again.  Yep.  There they were.  I yelled loudly for my little guy.  He just waved.  My hubby told me that Muscles was hurting.  I knew hills were coming.  That was the only way to get back to the finish line.  I told him to keep up the good work and that I would be waiting at the finish line.  Off I went!  Mile 2 ... 24:20 .. told you that I stopped dead.  Yes, I am aware that is a 15:00 mile.  All for my fellas .. well really one.  From here on out was basically an uphill run.  A few slight downhills but mainly uphill to the finish line at the football field. 

And here I am crossing the finish line in 33:50 something .. I don't remember.  And honestly, I will not believe the "official results" when they put them up.  Long story..........  Grabbed my coat.  Picked up an apple and water.  Waiting patiently for my fellas........time is clicking by.  Then here they come around the corner.  Yes, my hubby is holding his hand.  John told me that Muscles was really hurting.  I ran out to tell him good job.  He had tears in his eyes.  Maybe just maybe the "parent meeting" made the wrong decision.  But this close to the finish .. he wasn't gonna stop. 

Hubby and Muscles

You can do it Muscles....catch Daddy.  He looked at me here and said "I didn't beat Snow.  But I will next time." 

He didn't hurt bad enough to not pass up Daddy at the finish line.  They crossed at 44:09 and 44:11.  Muscles time was 7 minutes slower than his last.  The hills did nothing for his leg.  He really fights telling us what is wrong for some reason.  After much prodding .. he finally told me that it is his Achilles tendon area on his leg that hurts.  UGH!  Since Grandma opted out this time she was put in charge of Killer.  They became the official support staff.  Coats.  Timer.  Sign holders.  Cheerleaders.  You name it and they did it. 

Support Staff .. Killer and Grandma! 

My cousins son after finishing ... she didn't get a picture of his sister.  Ssshhhh don't tell her! 

My cousin and her friend finishing. 

Apparently during this race Killer and Grandma had a good conversation.  They made a deal to compete in this race next year.  Pretty sure they even have a bet.  At least Killer said they did. 



Just a Brereton family affair! 

The family that stays active together ... usually stays healthy together. 

Just happy to know that I'm setting a good example for my kiddos! 

Isn't that what it is all about?!



Ohhhh ... Roasted Brussel Sprouts

As quite a few of your are aware, I head off to the flea market on Friday mornings in search of fresh veggies.  As with every fall season, brussels sprouts are in full force.  Now, I am aware these are another love or hate veggie.  I love them.  The kiddos like them.  And my husband really will eat just about anything. 

Normally, I steam or boil them until just soft enough.  We don't care for mushy sprouts!  BLECH!  But I've been reading about people roasting them.  Thought that we would give them a try.  After looking up several recipes, I quickly realized that 99% of them are the same.  It is just what you sprinkle them with that might differ. 

I found a roasted brussels sprout and onions recipe in a Weight Watcher magazine that just came out.  Sounded easy peasy.  So, it was on tap for last nights dinner.  Here is the recipe ....

ROASTED BRUSSELs SPROUTS AND ONIONS

Prep 20 minutes, Roast 30 minutes, Serves 8

Preheat oven to 375*. Spray large rimmed baking pan with nonstick spray.  Mix 1 lb. trimmed and halved fresh brussel sprouts, 1 lb peeled fresh pearl onions, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg.  Put veggies on pan.  Roast for 10 minutes.  Add 1/4 cup sliced almonds; roast until tender, 20 minutes. 

Per serving ... 1/2 cup .... 77 calories and 4 grams fat. 

Hate onions ... use 2 pounds brussel sprouts and 1/4 cup chopped pecans. 

So, I went to work.  I thought these would make a great companion to roasted brussel sprouts and mashed cauliflower.  The top pic is my cleaned and split brussel sprouts.  The hubby and I will eat the onions but the kiddos it depends on the day.  So, I opted to leave them out of the equation today.  I did the olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.  Popped them babies in the oven.  And the wait began.  After 30 minutes they were nice enough for a fork to slide into them.  Here is what they looked like upon removal. 

As I prepped everyones plates .. well .. I'll admit to popping one in my mouth.  They smelled great! 

After realizing that I should have let it cool down just a little while longer, the chewing began.  As I stood there with that sprout in my mouth a thought ran across my mind .... WHERE IN THE HECK CAN I SPIT THIS THING OUT?  I quickly looked for a place to deposit my sprout.  Thank goodness the scrap bowl was sitting there.  I quickly removed the sprouts from everyones plate.  And went to work on another side dish.  One of the changes I've made along the way in my journey is don't eat something that you don't like. 

Sorry!  But I should have made the title ... How to ruin brussel sprouts! 

My hubby and daughter tried them.  Hubby said "eah".  Daughter reported "they're not that bad."  Not sure I'll give it another shot.  If I do this recipe will not be used.  If you decide to be adventurous .... let me know how it went. 

Good fuel .... Roasted Beets!

What a seamless transition!  Candy and cookies last night.  Roasted beets tonight. 

Okay, every single one of us has a love of beets.  You either love to eat them OR you love to hate them.  Seriously, I don't know one person that has ever said "Well, I kinda like beets."  It is either love or hate with the purple/pink little things!  I personally LOVE beets.  Will admit to consuming pickled beets regularly.  I have canned them for the past 14 years using my Grandmas recipe.  It is the best!  I get compliments all the time on it.  And have been asked many times for the recipe. 

I know people that just boil, clean, and eat.  That just never sounded appetizing.  But I had read many times about roasted beets.  People using them on salads.  As main dishes.  As side dishes.  I kept my eye out for some quality beets.  I'm kinda picky about them.  Wanted nice firm hard beet.  Finally coming across some at the flea market that I frequent. 

I looked up many recipes.  All had their little "quirks" to try.  I did my own type of thing.  Most call for you to scrub and clean off the stem and root.  Bake at ____ degrees.  Then easily peel the skin from them.  Well, I don't play that game.  Having dealt with beets for years .. I treat them like a potato.  I washed them off.  Then I use/used a potato peeler to clean them.  Yes, the skins come off easily the other way but I'm not a fan of messing with hot purple items that can and normally do stain ones hands.  Been there.  Done that.  I highly recommend using plastic gloves.  Just in case you missed it .. they can and will stain your hands if you do a lot of them. 

So, I peeled them.  Made an aluminum foil pouch and placed the beets in it.  Drizzled with EVOO .... very little.  Sprinkled with salt and pepper.  And placed them in a 375 degree oven.  The time is 100% dependent on the size of your beets.  I had two larger beets that were time consuming!  You want a fork to easily go into the beet. 

These were FABULOUS!  WONDERFUL!  SPECTACULAR!  Needless to say ... I LOVED THEM!  I had a little one early on.  I knew it wouldn't take long to cook.  It was spectacular and was really hoping they would all turn out that way.  I was not disappointed!  The following pic is probably the best salad that I've ever made.  I know that sounds strange.  Warm roasted beets, blue cheese, sunflower seeds, romaine lettuce, and drizzled a little french dressing.  OMG!  It was heaven!  See the steam coming off the beets?!

If you like beets, I highly recommend you play around with them this way.  I cut up the extra and placed in the fridge for future use.  I might just pop in the oven for a little bit to heat back up.  Next time around, I plan to cube the beets.  That will really cut down on bake time.  I might like good fuel.  I might not mind spending a good deal of time on it.  But if you can find a quicker way .. some of the time it is all good! 

Let me know if you give it a try!