Friday, September 30, 2022

September Books

Can you believe that reading wasn't my jam growing up?! Clif Notes were my best friends in high school - I'd "read enough" to get by for a paper or test, but other than that I did not enjoy the act of reading so never did it... like ever. Maybe I wasn't reading things that held my interest or maybe it was because it was "required" so I didn't find it enjoyable, but whatever the reason, I'm glad I challenged myself to add the goal of reading 17 books in 2017 (which turned into 88 books in 201777 books in 201867 books in 201966 books in 2020 and 67 books in 2021). In the last year or so, especially since going back to work outside of the house full-time, the majority of my "reading" has been through audiobooks since I don't have as much time to sit and read physical books (not to mention I walk to work and walk on my lunch break so have two-ish hours a day I can listen to something). Even still, holding a physical book is the bomb diggity and I hope to get back to adding more reading vs listening. Just like in years past, writing a monthly recap of the books I get through is a great way for me to both record what I'm reading and to stay accountable. So here are the books I finished in September:

  • My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman - Okay, so it has been a HOT minute since I have actually finished a book (or even started one). I haven't been inspired by any of the audiobooks I had seen on my Hoopla app and I hadn't made reading a physical book a priority (I could use the excuse that I haven't had time, but if I had time to scroll through social media I have time to read a chapter or two). Anywho, the hubby and I went to Hawaii to meet up with his dad so I had about six hours of uninterrupted time to just read on the plane (which was LOVELY!) so I was able to grab a couple books off my "to read" pile to pack for the flights. I have read a few of Backman's books and always enjoy them, so figured that would be the case with this one - and it was. This is a sweet story about a seven year old and her wacky grandmother. I thought it was a very creative storyline and loved how imagination tied in with reality throughout the adventures Elsa went on. I wasn't able to finish the whole book on the flight, but thankfully with jetlag the hubby and I stayed up a little later that first night and I was able to find out how the story ended. I would say that this wasn't my favorite of his books, but it still kept me interested the entire time. I would give it an 8 out of 10.

  • Nowhere Near First by Cory Reese - I read this one on the flight back from Hawaii. I love following Cory on social media and have been needing to "get around to" reading some of his books, so finally made it happen. He's a "back of the pack" ultra runner who always seems to be tackling super zany adventures. As I'm sure you can guess, not only do I love running and talking about running, but I love reading about it too and this book is no exception. I assumed the book would be amusing, but I didn't expect it to be so real/ raw. Although, if I really was to think about it, runners often are "oversharers," especially while running, so I guess it makes sense (please don't hear this and think it is a bad thing - I just know that a lot of runners talk about how while running a lot of the pretense is wiped away and will talk about everything and anything without a second thought). I appreciate all of the insights Cory shared and am already looking forward to reading the next book of his I have on my shelf (Stronger Than the Dark). I originally grabbed the book for the entertainment value, but stuck around for the vulnerability and positivity through struggle and adversity. I would give it a 9 out of 10.

  • Flash Fire by TJ Klune - After remembering how much I enjoy reading, I decided to scope out my Hoopla app to see if any good audiobooks had been added recently. I noticed that there was a sequel to TJ Klune's The Extraordinaires, so I thought I'd give it a go since I enjoyed the first one when I listened to it last year. I'll be honest, I didn't love it as much as some of TJ's other books (The House in the Cerulean Sea is in my top ten favorite books), but this was entertaining and kept me smiling. Normally superhero storylines aren't my go-to, but I love how down-to-earth and real the kids (and adults) seem. Also, I absolutely believe that representation matters, so I appreciate that this series has LGBTQIA+ heroes. (I also didn't realize there was a third story in the series, so hopefully it becomes available on my Hoopla app soon!) I would give it an 8 out of 10. 

With that, September has come to a close. My reading may not be going gang-busters like it has in the past, but I hope it never completely stops. If you have any suggestions, let me know! I'm always willing to add them to my library wait list! 

PS I created an Amazon list that includes all of the books I've read and would recommend to others. Check it out!

What's the best book you've read lately? 

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Eating Around the World - 2022 "Challenge" [September - Mediterranean]

I came up with a fun "challenge" for the hubby and I to tackle in 2022. You see, we try and limit our eating out to once a week (because I'm frugal like that ;)). With that said, we tend to stick to our tried-and-true favorites (you gotta make the most of those dining-out experiences, right?!). Well, that means we usually eat at the same two restaurants. Hear me out, I am NOT complaining, but I thought it might be a fun "challenge" for the year to try a new place once a month. To take the idea one step further, I thought we could try a different cuisine every month - that way we aren't just trying a new Mexican restaurant every month (because, let's be real, I can never turn down great chips and salsa ;)). Here's how it went:


[Originally this was going to be a single post, but blog readers said they preferred monthly, so ask and you shall receive.] 

January - Indian

February - Korean

March - Pizza

May - Mexican

June - Sandwiches

July - Breakfast

August - Thai

September - Mediterranean

I had come across Shaks Mediterranean Bistro on Yelp a while back but saved it for later since I thought it wouldn't be the hubby's jam. I was under the impression he didn't like Mediterranean food because every time they had it at work he would complain. When I suggested it he was all for giving it a go and explained his issue with the restaurant his office sometimes orders from. Come to find out, it wasn't an aversion to the food, it was more the fact that there weren't many vegetarian options so he was left with a side of hummus for lunch (which was not a "meal" in his mind ;)).). 

The name is an abbreviation of the family's last name - "Shakarjian".

Due to the pandemic and the inability to find folks to work at the restaurant, they've had to adjust their hours. We arrived at 3:55pm on a Saturday and although their website and Yelp page show they open at 12pm, they didn't actually open until 4pm. (Their website does say they had to change their weekday hours to 4pm, but didn't mention adjusting weekend hours.) Obviously waiting for an extra 5 minutes wasn't an issue, but was hoping this wasn't a sign of things to come. 

Once we were seated (they were doing construction on the bar area inside, so we sat out on the patio in a half shaded [for the hubby], half sunny [for me] table), we got our menus and dove in. I normally peruse the menu before we go (especially for new-to-us spots), but the hubby doesn't so he needed some extra time. I had already decided what I wanted before we even arrived, but figured I would take the time to double check just in case something else spoke to me ;)

As the hubby had experienced with the restaurant his office sometimes orders from, this place was also lacking in many vegetarian options.  It seemed as though the options were falafel (in either a salad, bowl or pita) or veggie kabobs. There were some starters/ mezzas that are meat-free, but I would say that much of the main menu is meat heavy. But don't you worry your pretty little head, we were still able to find some delicious options to devour ;) We decided to start with the Garlic Dip. Think of it like a garlic hummus with a little kick. Our waitress did warn us about the spice (it was more of a slow burn that would creep up on you), and although we smelled like garlic for the next 24 hours, it was so worth it!

The fact that we smelled like (and could still taste) garlic for 24+ hours afterwards was worth it ;)

The hubby and I both ordered the falafel - I went with the pita and while the hubby went with the bowl. Just like the dip, the meals were scrum-didily-umptions. I'd say the pita was pretty impossible to eat as is. I had to eat quite a few of the falafels with a fork prior to being able to pick up the pita (don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about how over-stuffed it was, more just pointing out that it wasn't handheld at first ;)) Note: I did order mine without tomatoes. The hubby's bowl came with a lot more veggies/ garnishes. Although he is normally not an "olive guy" he kept them on because he said that it would give him the "full experience". In the end he scooped off the olives and didn't eat them after all ;) 

Pita and french fries - probably enough to split into two meals!

Hubby's bowl (don't mind the half eaten garlic gip in the background ;))

Like I alluded to, the portions were EXTREMELY generous. I ended up putting a few of my falafels with the hubby's leftover bowl. [He ate it for lunch the following day with the remaining garlic dip and pita pieces.] We definitely did not leave room for dessert, so we might have to come again because the Mediterranean Hot Cheese Cake was intriguing. 

Overall we both enjoyed everything. We can see why this family has been a staple in North County for 30+ years (originally called The Armenian Cafe in Carlsbad for 27 years and then Shaks [an abbreviation of their last name] in Vista since 2018). I'll be honest, I don't know if we'll be back due to the limited veggie options, but if anyone is ever looking for a yummy blend of Lebanese, Armenian, Greek and Mediterranean flair, we'd totally recommend checking this spot out.

A nod to their previous restaurant in the back of the parking lot

When was the last time you tried a new-to-you restaurant?

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Walt Wednesday

Some people do a "Wordless Wednesday" post, where they simply share a photo or image, but I thought I'd make a little series out of my Wednesdays. And since I love alliteration so much, why not go with Walt Wednesdays (obviously everyone can use a little break from the seriousness, scariness and sassiness of life - and what better way to help put a smile on your face than with a cute wiener dog picture, am I right?!)... So, without further ado...

WALT WEDNESDAY!

When life gets overwhelming, how do you de-stress?

Sunday, September 25, 2022

Workout Recap - Week 39

Sunday, September 18th – 4 mile treadmill run (~40 minutes)

Monday, September 19th – 8 mile treadmill run (~71:52)

Tuesday, September 20th – 4 mile treadmill run (~34:10)

Wednesday, September 21st – Rest Day/ Travel Day

Thursday, September 22nd –  4ish miles

Friday, September 23rd  Rest Day

Saturday, September 24th – 17ish miles

Like I mentioned in last week's workout recap, the hubby and I were going to be out of town for vacation, so workouts were going to look a little different. Because we were staying in a new-to-us area of Kauai, I stuck to the treadmill for my runs since I wasn't super familiar with the area. (The hubby and I would hit up the gym for a quick afternoon session while the hubby's dad and his wife were at the pool.) Also, while we were in Hawaii my watch decided to stop working, so the treadmill was the best way to estimate my distance. When we got back I was able to stick with familiar routes or "Map My Run" to get an idea of when and where I should turn around (but I have no idea about pace). I haven't run "naked" in quite some time, so it was definitely an interesting experience (but hopefully my replacement watch arrives soon :)).

How were your workouts this past week?

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Walt Wednesday

Some people do a "Wordless Wednesday" post, where they simply share a photo or image, but I thought I'd make a little series out of my Wednesdays. And since I love alliteration so much, why not go with Walt Wednesdays (obviously everyone can use a little break from the seriousness, scariness and sassiness of life - and what better way to help put a smile on your face than with a cute wiener dog picture, am I right?!)... So, without further ado...

WALT WEDNESDAY!

When life gets overwhelming, how do you de-stress?

Sunday, September 18, 2022

Workout Recap - Week 38

Sunday, September 11th – 10 mile run 

Monday, September 12th – 90 minutes on the stationary bike

Tuesday, September 13th – 3.9 mile run for the hubby's 39th birthday

Wednesday, September 14th – 8 mile run

Thursday, September 15th –  4.44 miles of hills

Friday, September 16th  8 mile run

Saturday, September 17th – Rest Day

This week looks a little different because the hubby and I are going on a vacation so I swapped my long run from last week and my long run this week and then moved around a couple of my longer mid-week runs so I could have shorter runs while we are out of town. My longer runs are still having a bit more walking in them than I would like, but I'm hoping this weather (I don't know what satan's armpit feels like personally, but if I had to guess it'd be something like what we've been experiencing lately) will break and I'll start running stronger and more consistent in the coming weeks.

How were your workouts this past week?

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

Walt Wednesday

Some people do a "Wordless Wednesday" post, where they simply share a photo or image, but I thought I'd make a little series out of my Wednesdays. And since I love alliteration so much, why not go with Walt Wednesdays (obviously everyone can use a little break from the seriousness, scariness and sassiness of life - and what better way to help put a smile on your face than with a cute wiener dog picture, am I right?!)... So, without further ado...

WALT WEDNESDAY!

When life gets overwhelming, how do you de-stress?

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Workout Recap - Week 37

Sunday, September 4th – 7.22 mile walk/ run with a friend

Monday, September 5th – Rest Day

Tuesday, September 6th – 3 mile run

Wednesday, September 7th – 7 mile run

Thursday, September 8th –  3 mile run

Friday, September 9th  90 minutes on the stationary bike

Saturday, September 10th – 16 mile run

I'll be honest, the majority of these runs did not feel great. We are in the middle of a heatwave (and Hurricane Kay, turned tropical storm by the time it reached us, has not brought the relief that we were hoping it would), so my energy has been ZAPPED. It also doesn't help that I started my period - which is always extremely heavy and painful. I am taking my runs as they come (and whatever body shows up that day) and trying not to get too frustrated with the walk breaks that I've been having to add in once I hit those walls in my workouts. I keep reminding myself that A. I am strong, B. this weather will NOT last and it will only make me stronger in the process and C. I technically was starting over from what felt like ground zero after I broke my rib and needed to let the body heal from that and my 100-miler. I'm still putting in work, so although it might look different than it has in the past (or doesn't meet the expectations in my head), IT STILL MATTERS.

How were your workouts this past week?

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Walt Wednesday

Some people do a "Wordless Wednesday" post, where they simply share a photo or image, but I thought I'd make a little series out of my Wednesdays. And since I love alliteration so much, why not go with Walt Wednesdays (obviously everyone can use a little break from the seriousness, scariness and sassiness of life - and what better way to help put a smile on your face than with a cute wiener dog picture, am I right?!)... So, without further ado...

WALT WEDNESDAY!

When life gets overwhelming, how do you de-stress?

Sunday, September 4, 2022

Workout Recap - Week 36

Sunday, August 28th – 6 mile run

Monday, August 29th – 90 minutes on the stationary bike

Tuesday, August 30th – 2.69 miles of hill repeats

Wednesday, August 31st – 7 mile run

Thursday, September 1st –  3 mile run

Friday, September 2nd  Rest Day

Saturday, September 3rd – 14.14 mile run

Originally my Sunday run was supposed to be a "pace" run, which means I'm supposed to run at goal race pace, but I wasn't sure if my legs could handle it so I decided on a progression run (each mile gets subsequently faster). Well, around mile 2.5 my left quad started tightening up so I pulled off the gas and just finished the run. Since then it's gotten better, but I still haven't been pushing the pace and have been doing my best to stretch and foam roll whenever I have a minute. I'd much prefer to prehab than rehab ;) We are also dealing with a major heatwave right now (90s and high humidity AT THE BEACH!), so the end of the week was rough. For my Saturday long run I had a "strong" first five miles and then did more of a walk/run for the final nine... Even when I am starting my runs before 4:30am it is still in the 80s and 85% humidity - which is ZAPPING my energy. Here's to hoping the weather breaks soon so I can start feeling stronger/ more confident... 

How were your workouts this past week?