Slim People in Progress

10.68 miles today!

I finally broke the 10 mile barrier!  Today's training run was 2.5 hours and I got in 10.68 miles in that time. I had to do a bit of walking and my left knee is swollen and in pain, but I'm very happy that I finally got beyond 10 miles.  I never thought in a million years that I would run 10 miles.

It was a spectacular morning in Santa Monica. We ran along the promenade through Santa Monica, Venice and then along the jetty, which I think is in Marina del Rey.  Then back the way we came. My running buddy and I made our own route and rather than going up to Ocean Ave., we continued along the promenade past the Santa Monica pier to the end where the path turns into a bike path. Then back to our starting point.

Here's the route if you're curious.

Heirloom Tomato and Watermelon Salad

I just stumbled on this wonderful sounding recipe on A Chef's Notes blog. Considering the ingredients, it can't be more than 1 or 2 points per serving.  Also, I've never heard arugula called "rocket" before, but what do I know, except that I love arugula!

Heirloom Tomato, Watermelon & Rocket Salad

Tomato and watermelon does not necessarily sound like a good match, but they actually play off well together, providing the tomatoes are more on the smooth, rich and sweet side and not the overly acidic store bought tomatoes. Paired with the nice peppery compliment of fresh Rocket (arugula), some good olive oil, vinegar and a nice Zinfandel or even Chardonnay and you have a great dish.
Recipe Created by Chef Kevin McKenzie

Ingredients

Assorted Heirloom Tomatoes        4each, red & orange
Watermelon                                to taste red & yellow
Rocket (arugula)                          2 bunches
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fruity        3 Tablespoons
Cabernet Vinegar or Vin Cotto      3 Tablespoons
Sea Salt                                      to taste
Cracked Black Pepper                  to taste
Basil                                           six each torn leaves

Method

Slice tomatoes and watermelon attractively and arrange onto separate plates

Toss rocket with torn basil and enough vinegar and oil to coat.

Place attractively in center of plate, covering the tomatoes & watermelon

Drizzle salad with remaining olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.

Weight Watchers Smart Ones: Chicken Quesadilla

Have you tried the new Chicken Quesadilla from Weight Watchers Smart Ones? Being a Mexican food junkie, I just had to try it.  Not bad, especially when you add some spicy salsa. It's very cheesy and has enough chicken to make it feel substantial.

Be warned though...there are TWO servings in the package and EACH serving is 4 points. That means if you eat both quesadillas, you're eating 8 points.

Weight Gain may be caused by genetics

Can genetics affect how you gain and lose weight?  Connie Bennett of Sugar Shock Blog looks at a study by the Monell Chemical Senses Institute that discovered a genetic defect in the liver may impair the body's ability to burn fat.

If you're prone to obesity, it may be genetics that's working against you.

International Myeloma Foundation Public Service Announcement

In support of those who are suffering from blood cancers, I'm posting this public service announcent for the International Myeloma Foundation.  This week in our TNT training, we move up to a 2.5 hour run on hills.  I continually remind myself that the discomfort of running is nothing compared to the pain and fear I suspect those with cancer suffer from.