5.31.2011

R.E.A.D.


This summer I have become a woman of many talents. Among my weekly schedule: classes, internship and several jobs. However, I'm loving every moment of it all. Tomorrow starts our summer sessions of class so lots of prayer need there.
But today I wanted to share another experience in my life: teaching a child to read. I'm an avid reader. On a good day or even bad, provided the book is good, I can spend the day curled up with a book forgetting the world should even exist outside. I try to read a little bit of everything. Sometimes I am more successful with the task than others but I make the effort to borrow from my best friend since he is more diverse than my typical tastes.
In my adventures though I found myself presented with a task I've never done before. Today I was able to help a child read. Now, I've been the typically babysitter who pops in a movie, chases a child outside or colors until I can't see straight but I have never gotten to teach someone to read before. It was such an incredible experience. There is that moment when the child understands that the world sounds like and the excitement is pure joy. 
I have quite a few things that I want to do in my life some day but I do hope that a piece of that is teaching because that moment was beyond incredible. 



5.26.2011

Barre?


Boredom. It can be a frequent identifier of my view of my workout. I just get bored. Videos? I can turn those off. Running? I can just stop. I am the queen of finding an excuse to JUST NOT DO IT. Nike wouldn't appreciate that I imagine. 
Well today I decided to check out Grand Jeté, a locally owned barre fitness facility in Mountain Brook. I loved it! Granted it kicked my butt and as my roommate pointed out the jello legs will only be worse tomorrow, however, I still loved every moment of it. I was entertained, which is important for the queen of excuses and boredom.
Now, I know everyone can't afford to but if you have time give the class a try. Most places offer a free trial class. Scope out the website, grab a friend and a find a time that works for you. Some places even off a student discount (what will I ever do when I'm not in school). 
But whatever you decide to do, try something that works for you. If you love to run, run on! Swim? Be the next Michael Phelps. You can do it. Me? Well I may just have to try a bit of everything to keep entertained. =)

5.11.2011

Baked Zucchini

One of my new favorite dishes. =)

Baked Zucchini Sticks
Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 3 • Serving Size: 1 zucchini  Old Points: 1.5 pts (sauce extra) • Points+:3 pts
Calories: 121.9 • Fat: 2.4 • Carbs: 21.0 g • Fiber: 6.0 • Protein: 6.7 g 
  • 3 medium zucchini sliced into 3" x 1/2" sticks
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1/3 cup seasoned whole wheat bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • cooking spray
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • salt
  • fresh pepper

Quick Marinara Sauce
Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 6 • Serving Size: 1/2 cup • Old Points: 1 pt • Points+: 1 pt
Calories: 51.5 • Fat: 0.8 • Carbs: 9.0 g • Fiber: 1.1 • Protein: 0.1 g  
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes (I like Tuttorosso)
  • 1 small bay leaf
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • salt and fresh pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425°.

In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute until golden, being careful not to burn. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, basil and bay leaf. Stir and reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer about 20 minutes.


In a small bowl, beat egg whites and season with salt and pepper. In a ziplock bag,place breadcrumbs, garlic powder and cheese and shake well. Spray cookie sheet with cooking spray and set aside.

Dip zucchini sticks into eggs then into bread crumb and cheese mixture, a few at a time and shake to coat. Place the breaded zucchini in a single layer and spray more cooking spray on top. Bake at 425° for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.Serve with 1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping.


5.10.2011

Sweet melody

It's finals week so life is a bit crazy but I wanted to share a few musical choices that have been getting me through it this week.
1. Poison & Wine - EP
I keep hearing them in movies and television shows. If you haven't yet check them out.
2. Glee: The Music Presents The Warblers
Always a good up beat tune. Plus I've been listening to their version of Rolling in the Deep. Love!
3.Carry On Wayward Son
This album features my favorite classic rock song: Carry On Wayward Son. 
4. Chasing Cars
Always a calming album.
5. Rumours
Thank you Glee for reminding me of this album.

Enjoy the music. =)