Sun Struck + Europe

Whew! Saturday's long run of 14.5 miles after yoga really did me in. I think it was the combination of being sunny and warmer (and my legs already being a little sore prior) that really got to me. Clearly, getting back into this whole long run thing is going to take a while. 

My jaunt around Eugene took me through city streets, up hills, along a few gentle trails and along the river path. 

This look is called "tired."

Afterward, I made a quick stop at Trader Joe's for some groceries before heading home for fuel and a much needed nap. I don't know about you, but I used to resist naps like none other, until I realized how beneficial a short nap can be for my recovery and sanity. After 30 minutes, I felt much better. 

With temps reaching the 60s this weekend, the manfriend and I got out on not one but TWO bike dates! We found a few fun excuses to ride downtown and enjoy beer (Go Ducks!, close game) and pastries + coffee (just because). 

The earnings of the manfriend cashing in his change box on the dresser. 

*In all seriousness, I thought the manfriend might get $10 from all his change, so I was pretty floored when he came out of the grocery store with $50! Perhaps I should start saving my change for something I really want...

Travel

We also managed to book our Europe trip this weekend! You may recall that we have been planning to go to Europe for our honeymoon/1 year anniversary. I have been nervous to book the trip and honestly, just thinking about the logistics makes me nervous, but the good thing is we can plan as little or as much as we want in those three weeks. 

We are flying into London, then heading to Barcelona a few days later and making a loop around Europe before we fly out of Paris. It was a little tricky figuring it all out because we are also trying to fit in seeing the Tour de France for a day or so, but I think we can make it work. 

Other cities/countries we're thinking about are: Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre or Positano, Switzerland, Prague, Germany. I went to Europe in 2009 with my good friend Annie so there are a lot of places I'd love to see again, but also want to make sure this trip is unique.  

Thoughts? Advice?

For dinner tonight we made Yumm bowls. The local chain Cafe Yumm makes this tasty sauce and a variety of healthy bowls that we like to replicate at home. 

Ingredients: spinach, brown rice, kidney & pinto beans, mushroom, onion, red pepper, avocado, plain yogurt, cheese, salsa and yumm sauce

Not only is this dish simple and delicious, it's also nutritious and easy to adapt with whatever beans, grain or veggies you have on hand. 

What is your favorite food right now? Mine has been either avocado or frozen berries (can't seem to live without them). 

Interesting Reads: 

3 Reasons Why Women Should Lift, Peanut Butter Runner

The Myth of "You Can Never Be Too Careful", Allison Vesterfelt