DIY Mocha Honey Race Fuel for Marathon, OCR and Ultra Running

You can’t rev your engine and keep the proverbial pedal to the metal in a race without some quality fuel in the tank. Okay, that’s a lot of metaphor to chew on in one sentence. So, in straight forward English let me say, that for optimal performance, you need quality carbs before and during your marathon, obstacle course race, triathlon, ultra or other endurance sport. Mocha Honey Race Fuel

Far too many times, I’ve gone without much fuel on the course, I’ve attempted the alternative approach of “fat-loading,” or in a pre-bonk induced panic I’ve eaten whatever product was being handed out on the course.  I’ve found that my best chance for success is to toe the start line with a strong sports nutrition plan in hand, and this includes one of my many homemade race fuels. Today I’m sharing my recipe for Mocha Honey Protein Sticks. Read on to get the instructions: Continue reading

Twice Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites

‘Tis the season for side dishes and my Twice-Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites are little mouthfuls of yumminess, fancy enough for your holiday dinner yet an easy fix to pair with fast weeknight meals.  And, as a party appetizer, these personal-sized poppers vanish before you can set down the platter! Twice Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites

Something about a soft and tender baked potato that is so comforting, but often with all the other side dishes can be too filling.  Would you believe one of my go-to “carbo loading” meals at a nearby deli (a super-sized spud topped with broccoli cheese soup) inspired these cute little veggie-stuffed mini potatoes?  It’s true, read on to get the recipe! Continue reading

Baked Butternut Squash Dip

Holiday get-togethers are starting to gear up, from Halloween potlucks in the cul-de-sac to Thanksgiving gatherings, soon enough! When I need an autumn recipe that’s easy (but looks like I took some time with it) and healthy (but seems rich and indulgent), my blender recipe for Baked Butternut Ricotta Dip is a favorite to share.

Ranch Butternut Ricotta Dip bread in pan

Read on to get all the recipe details and find out my secret ingredient in this comforting, ooey-gooey appetizer. Continue reading

5 Ways Parents Can Exercise While Waiting at Kids Sports Practice

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, INC. and The Coca-Cola Company, all opinions are mine alone. #SnackHonestly #CollectiveBias

The fall season can take a toll on my daily workout routine, if I let it.  Busy back-to-school schedules, dwindling daylight hours, pre-holiday preparations and perhaps just a bit of laziness make it harder to keep to my regularly schedule sweat sessions.healhty snack active lifestyle

But, thank goodness autumn weather is perfect for exercising outdoors, so I keep my fitness clothes in the car trunk (along with Lorissa’s Kitchen™ and  Honest Tea® ) and make it a priority to move and groove wherever I might be in “wait mode” – like a one of my three kid’s many sports practices. Read on to find out five easy ways everyone from Soccer Moms and Football Dads can squeeze in an impromptu workout this way and also get a deal on the sponsor products. Continue reading

DIY Watermelon Beet & Chia Energy Blocks for Marathon

This post is sponsored by The National Watermelon Board. However, all opinions, ideas and enthusiasm are completely my own.

Almost six years ago, I started experimenting with making my own edible race fuel. There weren’t as many options on the market back then, and I also liked the control I had over ingredients and flavor when making energy gels, jellies and chews from scratch – not to mention saving a ton of money. Watermelon Beet Chia Energy Blocks

Today I’m sharing my recipe for Watermelon Beet & Chia Energy Blocks that are surprisingly easy to make and take advantage of the inherent health and performance benefits of the featured ingredients. Read on to get the recipe, nutrition info and details on how you can use these chews in your next marathon, triathlon, obstacle race or other endurance event.  Continue reading