Day 19

Today I went for a jog first thing when I woke up.  I typically don't ever exercise without eating something prior, but was hoping that maybe I could tolerate this run on an empty stomach.  Well, it didn't work.  Bummer.  I felt a bit lethargic and overall lack of energy.  I definitely need to eat before, even if it's just a handful of nuts or two eggs. Tonight I'm going to try dehydrating sweet potatoes and see how they turn out, because I'm hoping to use dehydrated sweet potato chips as fuel for my long runs!

Cooper and I did 3.7 miles in the 21 degree weather, then came in and ate leftover pecan crusted chicken, and had some walnut red pepper dip with radish slices, asparagus, and then some blueberries.  Here is my workout:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/143178716

I nannyed my cousins today, and had to take one of the triplets to a birthday party at a bakery where they decorate cookies and cupcakes, etc.  I definitely had a craving then for cookies and cupcakes!!!  Mmmm  Those are my favorite "sweet", for sure.  I will definitely be treating myself with some cookies when this challenge is over.  ;)  I was also having other cravings for yummy food- pizza in particular.  It's Friday night, and I just felt the desire to eat something "good".  Sure, the food I'm eating now is good, but not THAT kind of good.  haha 

My uncle and I decided that we will celebrate the end of our Whole30 Challenge with a night of Indian food!!  I think we should follow that with some ice cream, too!  ;)

I definitely think that I should plan my "cheat meals" when I go back to eating with a bit more slack. I also plan to record how the foods affect me- such as weight, skin, GI issues...things like that.  Then I will be able to know that I should avoid a certain kind of food, or find out which foods I would be ok with eating every once in a while- like dairy products or rice, beans, etc.

My family got Chipotle for dinner, so I decided that I would get some, too, even though it won't be "as good" because I can't get the rice, beans or cheese.  I got a bol with lettuce, carnitas, tomato salsa and guacamole.  It was good, but so not as satisfying.  :/

Here's something cool- I submitted my "story of persistence and determination" to "The Feel Good Lifestyle" website, which is a pretty cool website about "Inspiration, Energy & Strategies to Feel Good Everyday".  Check it out!!  Here is the link:  http://www.thefeelgoodlifestyle.com/feel-good-stories

For dessert tonight I'm having a bit of  "Coconut Chia Peel", which is actually a dehydrated package made for backpacking trips.  I bought it recently, so figured I would try it out tonight since I am craving something sweet.  The ingredients are dates, chia seed, coconut, banana, ginger and cinnamon.  It has a mild flavor, and a texture like oatmeal.  It satisfied my craving.  I'll save some for tomorrow night, too!  :)

I'm going to finish off the day by choosing recipes to make this weekend!