Cook&Go Culinary Studio

I was really excited when I got the invitation to attend Cook&Go because it would force me into learning something new to cook. The menu in my apartment is in desperate need of a refresh, the healthier the better. It's easy for us to fall back on what we know how to make and what's quick. Full disclosure: I am not usually the cook (more like the sous-chef), but I try! I figured attending would be a perfect way to expand our menu and have some fun while doing it.

A little bit about Cook&Go Culinary Studio: After several years of expansion in France, the NYC location (443 W 16th St between 9th and 10th ave) is the very first Cook&Go Culinary Studio in the United States. They offer workshops for anyone who is looking to improve their cooking skills, or who just wants to learn a new set of dishes (and eat them!) You’ll be cooking up individual dishes on the spot and be given the recipes to make the meals at home. At Cook and Go, you make the entire meal, not just a part of it.

Bonus? Everything on the menu for the night sounded delicious and I'd have a chance to make it myself!

Our menu was:

• Chickpea Burgers and Tahini Sauce
• Spinach, apple, carrot, ginger smoothie
• Raspberry filled shortbread sandwich

Like any awesome meal, we started with desert- making it that is. This is about the point when I realized I was way out of my league. I was a little overwhelmed at how fast it was going and wanted my dishes to be perfect. Once I let go of the fact I was not going to be the next Top Chef within 90 minutes, I started to enjoy myself. Our teacher was awesome, she made it an extremely laid back environment all while being extra informative. The company was great as well, but when is it not when bloggers are involved?! 

We moved on to the chickpea burger, who knew they were so easy to make?! It's definitely going to be added to the menu at my apartment! But even better than the chickpea burger was the Tahini sauce. None of us could get over how delicious it was! The list of ingredients for everything we made was so short, it's almost embarrassing that I hadn't thought to make it before. 

Next on the list was the smoothie, which was what I was looking forward to making most. I've been wanting to get a blender specifically for green juices for awhile and I think this was the push I needed. I don't know why I thought it was so complicated. I've been hesitant about making it because I'm not a fan of chunky or pulp, but it wasn't as bad as I thought. We used an immersion blender to make the juice; which I found out is usually used for soups, not so much chopping fruits and vegetables into smooth green juices. Honestly, I didn't mind the pulp as much as I thought I would. I'm pretty sure I need to get a regular blender now. 

Proof I did it!

The final products!

If this was a normal class, we would've packed up our dinner and left (hence, Cook&GO). When the weather's nice, most people take their dinner and eat it on the Highline, which is only a block away. I'd probably want to eat it ASAP instead of waiting to get back to Brooklyn, but that's only because I spend the last hour and a half drooling over the food. Since this was a private event, we got to eat there and I just couldn't believe how delicious it was. 

Brittany, Kimberly, Bridgitt, Our Awesome Teacher!, Carly, Me and Amanda!

This event was really great and I appreciate being invited. I'd definitely go back; it would be perfect for a girls night out or a date night. If you're interested in attending a class, which I highly recommend, use code BLOG14 for a 15% off. You can set up an account and every time you go, your recipes will be there.

Have you ever gone to a cooking class before?

I was invited to this event and enjoyed it so much, I wanted to share my experience with yall. I was not compensated or required to write about my experience. As usual, all opinions are my own.

(3 Things) in New Orleans

This past weekend was B's first time in my hometown. So, after the race, we spent a lot of time being tourists. It's always fun to make it a point to do the touristy things every now and then. It's fun see what's changed. Downtown New Orleans has changed a LOT since the last time I visited (a lot more commercialized and tourist friendly), so it was cool to see that. We really enjoyed our time and wanted to share with yall what our highlights were. . . so here are 3 things B really liked in New Orleans: 

The Beignets. The Cafe au lait. The Beignets. 

But really, the cafe au lait. I forgot how good coffee with chicory is and that was definitely the deal breaker for which beignet location we prefer (Morning Call's coffee is better in case you're wondering). I think I ate more beignets throughout the weekend, than I have my entire adult life. And I'm totally ok with that. 

The streetcar. 

The fact that the seat-backs actually moved depending on which way the streetcar was going, entertained her immensely.

This photo. 

You can thank my sister for this gem, as she decided to show B a bunch of my baby pictures. That's what I get for letting her visit with my family :) 

What's your top 3 things in New Orleans? 

Favorite thing about visiting your hometown?

(3 things) Nike Women's DC, Branding and Peppermint flavor!

For the few minutes you are here visiting my end of the information highway, let's pretend it's Thursday ;) because WOW has this week flown! 

The Nike Women's DC Half lottery happened this week. I was super excited when I saw the charge on my credit card- until I realized I didn't budget for all that money to be taken out. Ouch! There had better be a Tiffany's necklace at that finish line, is all I'm saying. I've been lusting after those necklaces since I started running; and I knew there was a reason I didn't splurge on one to commemorate NYCM (although, I ran the freakin' NYCM! I want a Tiffany apple!. .. when I have money again). Moving on. Our group registration name was Team Mean Girls and we are already discussing costume options. When this photo was brought up:

I knew we were all kindred spirits!

Fun Trivia- do you know what Nike Women's and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (at least it's awesome new logo) have in common?

A rockstar designer. 
I'm a huge fan of this lady's work, so no wonder I fell in love with both designs without even knowing who designed it. 

Speaking of being poor, another reason that I am right now keeps haunting me through the mail: Thanks, Cyber Monday. But my favorite purchase? (2) 8 packs of Peppermint Stick flavored Gu. Why isn't Peppermint-flavor a permanent seasonal flavor?! I'm looking at you Clifbar; bring it back and no one gets hurt!

What's up in your world?

(3 Things) post-marathon, the perfect running lip balm and family vacation

I will be very excited when my body starts to feel normal again. Right now, I feel sluggish and tired all the time. I can't remember if this is normal or a side effect from surviving on Apple Gorgonzola pizza and mexican food. What can I say? They're my favorite.
Don't hate. 

If your company has a health fair and CVS is there- get their chapstick! I'm a tchotchke fan (as if you didn't know already!) so I love collecting all the random crap I will never do anything with. But the chapstick is extremely useful! Nevermind that I also have an obsession with chapstick/ lip gloss, it's always good to have the promo kind for long runs- just in case I can't find one of my many NYRR brand. Their grapefruit flavor is THE best to run with- moisturizing with an SPF, plus it doesn't freeze in cold weather or melt in the heat; perfect texture all year round! The flavor/ smell is mild enough not to make you sick at mile 20. It's magical. 

But, as I've recently discovered, this CVS one is a close second (as long as you're a fan of coconut. It smells like summer!). 

I am very excited to follow along as everyone has a blast for the Wine and Dine half marathon weekend. Kudos to everyone who just ran NYC and are going- my legs are boycotting just at the thought! That race weekend is definitely on my radar, though- maybe 2015?

Truth be told, I have a family vacation to Disney the next weekend. A visit to Disneyworld not connected to a race?! Yup. I'm really excited because I've never been for the "Christmas" holiday. I can't wait to just spend lots of time with my family. I won't be traveling for the holidays, so this is a perfect substitute! We'll be going to Mickey's very merry Christmas party and stopping by to see the Osborne lights, just a few of the highlights! So, I will definitely be paying close attention to get a preview of what it will be like!

WoW Wednesdays: Eat first, then shower.

I fully support this tip! I'm a big fan of a post-run brunch if I'm in the city.

I also like to map the end of my run close to a bodega/ convenient store to grab a chocolate milk for the subway ride home. The Duane Reade at Columbus Circle is usually my go-to if I'm running in Central Park- I wonder how crazy it's going to be on Sunday? :)

(3things) winter coats, pecan pie Clifbars and an #awesomelyactive sweepstakes!

It's getting cold!! So cold, I almost wore my winter coat today. But then again, who am I kidding, I will try to find any excuse to wear it. It's a wonder I haven't tried to bust it out sooner. I never knew you could be so warm in a coat before this one! It's amazing. Although, it might be nice to not have to wear it for a couple of weeks. I am a fan of hoodie weather too. But it also means it's time to switch out my closet. I'm being super lazy about it, but it'll be a perfect distraction from the 2nd week of tapering. 

That, and I'm on a mission to find my favorite Gu flavor for the marathon. Last weekend, I took a trip to REI for the new Clifbar flavors and they were out of pretty much all Gu. Really? 

Speaking of Clifbars, I am super excited that it's special flavor time of year! Pecan Pie?! What? That's amazing. I was already a fan of Iced Gingerbread and I'm not sure how I feel about Pumpkin Pie yet. I just need them to release the Peppermint flavor and all will be well in the world. 

The fabulous ladies at Tampax have informed me they are partnering with three-time gold medalist and professional volleyball player Kerri Walsh Jennings for “The Kerri Walsh Jennings Active Experience” sweepstakes for a chance to play volleyball with Kerri in Manhattan Beach, California. The awesomely active grand prize includes a private training session with Kerri, two-night trip to Manhattan Beach for the lucky winner and three friends, lunch with Kerri, $1,000 in spending money and a year supply of Tampax Pearl Active. To enter, you can visit www.awesomelyactive.com. The sweepstake is from October 19 until November 3, 2013. So, you should enter! Full Disclosure: I am not being compensated to tell you about it. I just really love the #awesomelyactive campaign and wanted to pass along the information.

What's your favorite Clifbar flavor?

Epcot's Food and Wine Festival experience 2013

This was our first experience at Epcot's Food and Wine Festival and now I can definitely understand why it's such a must-do!

We decided to dedicate our last day in Disney to the festival (with a ride or 2 thrown in there). Spoiler alert: We got to try all the booths we wanted with time to spare even with a rain delay! We were only eating, which I'm sure helped get through. In retrospect, it would've been nice to have another day or so to experience even more and maybe get all the stamps on our passport. For the record, this was by far B's favorite day of the trip and I don't blame her. Who wouldn't want to spend the day eating and drinking around the world?

Our first stop was the Festival headquarters, aka the old Wonder of Life Pavilion, mainly because I wanted to go in and see what occupied where Cranium Command used to live (ps- is it weird to anyone else that the Making of Me theater was showing a film about fermenting grapes?!) and it was nice to get the overall feel for the event.

All of the demonstrations, seminars, book/ bottle signings and meet and greets for the festival happen here. If any of that interests you, there is an agenda and I believe there is an extra charge for most of the events.

There was tons of cute merch, too! 

There are kiosks set up throughout the World showcase in case you want to grab a souvinor, but this is where the majority of any and every thing Food and Wine was. They had really cute women's cut shirts and even branded trays with drink holders to make your experience even more convenient.

This is also where we picked up one of the gift card bracelet they recommend you use. You could also buy them throughout the world showcase and refill them pretty much anywhere that had a register. It makes it quick and easy at the booths instead of pulling out your wallet and credit card every time. There is a handy-dandy bracelet to keep it at your fingertips, literally. It's also quite helpful for setting a budget for what you're willing to spend- it can add up quickly, especially if you're drinking as well!

sidenote: The bathrooms in the pavilion haven't been "modernized", meaning there were actual faucet nobs with a heavy stream of water to wash our hands. This thrilled us more than I should admit. 

Once we got around to starting our journey of eating around the world (remember World Showcase doesn't open until 11!), there were some seriously threatening clouds forming. My strategy was to get to The American Adventure before the sky opened up. I knew we could hang out in the Chase Lounge until it let up. This meant walking while eating as well, which wasn't bad considering most of the tapas size portions were manageable.

Pretend you also see the Seared Rainbow Trout with Bacon and the "Le Cellier" Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle Butter Sauce. I totally forgot to get a photo, opps. Bad blogger.

Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet and Sour Dole Pineapple Chutney and Spicy Mayonnaise

Beef Empanda

Garlic Shrimp with Roasted Tomatoes

Lettuce Wrap with Roast Pork and Kimchi Slaw

OUR FAVORITE!!

Ravioli Di Formaggia all'Emiliana 
(Baked Cheese Ravioli with Creamy Beef Bolognese Sauce, Parmesean Cheese, and Melted Mozzarella)

We pushed our luck with trying to go past American before the storm, but instead were forced to back track. We made it half way to Japan, when drops started to fall. So, instead we ran back to America and managed to get a funnel cake before the sky opened. I'll be making a separate post about the Lounge, but it was a perfect place to wait out the weather. Since this is Florida we're talking about, it was a quick shower and we continued on our way. 

Teriyaki Chicken Hand Roll

Baklava

Lamb Meatball with Spicy Tomato Chutney

Originally, after New Zealand, we were going to go back the way we came (instead of making the full loop), but since we were passing by the Refreshment Port again (first time around we got the pineapple fritters), I got an Orange Dole Whip for the road. FYI, the pineapple is much better.

Since, I'm a master at time management (or at least I got extremely lucky this time!), we had to time make one more stop. Did you know about the Disney Chase Visa members photo area in Innovations West? I just discovered it. It's a separate area to get character photos but you never know who will be there. We got to get a picture with Mickey and Goofy in our medals. Another part of the perk is getting a 5x7 printed photo for free. It's a nice little bonus if you have time, I'd suggest it!

a photo of our photo

Then, all too soon, it was time to head to the airport to end our amazing trip. 

Have you been to the Food and Wine Festival? What was your favorite food? 

RunDisney Tower of Terror Expo, Pop Century and Splitsville

In previous runDisney races, there usually seems to be a theme surrounding the weekend. Marathon weekend was Africa. Princess was Carnival. This time it was Bowling. 

We ended up staying in the 1950s wing of The Pop Century Resort, which means our building was decorated with bowling pins, records, and transistor radios. It also means the bowling pin pool was right by our room. The one time, I really want to go swimming, I don't pack my suit! Boo. This was also the first time I've stayed on that side of the resort. It seemed really close to the main hall and transportation. 

After we settled into our room and ate in the hotel's food court, we headed over to the expo. Yes, you read that correctly. For the first time ever, I ate a meal before heading to an expo. 

It had just opened, and I almost wished we had waited. I knew it was going to be busy, even if it wasn't a "big" race, it was still a runDisney expo. Only the people wanting merch get there ASAP and as cute as it was (I loved the long sleeved tech I did it! shirt), I wasn't planning on buying any. 

We waited in line to get into the building and get our numbers, but by the time we had made a full loop of the expo floor, the lines were non-existent. The runDisney merch line was not that lucky. It wasn't the longest I've ever seen it (pales in comparison to Dumbo on one of the lighter days), but it was long enough for me not to stand in it for just the ToT 10 miler medal pin, which was the only must-have I wanted. 

I really like that Tower's expo is all in one place. The Bibs and the vendors were all on the same side of the complex. I get that they can't do that for marathon weekend, but it's still nice. The area was crowded in the beginning, but it never felt too crowded. It was a perfect space. 

We went back to the hotel to hang out for a bit and later headed to Downtown Disney for dinner. I really wanted to check out Splitsville and as luck would have it, we were seated right away! Since it was still a little early, the upstairs had just opened and we decided to sit up there. Best choice ever. It was quiet and intimate even as people were bowling around us. The bowling areas are split up into 4 or so lane areas scattered all around. It helps spread them out allowing for a bar area and smaller dining areas. As we ate, more people started to show up and I could see it being a very lively place to be as the night went on. 

The menu is pretty amazing, too. Sushi in a bowling alley? Don't judge it too hard, you might end up ordering it because it sounds delicious! Everything looked good to us and we couldn't decide so we went with a little bit of everything:

None of these things are anything like the other.

In retrospect, we should've just gotten a cheese or pepperoni pizza because the meat lovers was way too much! Surprisingly, I was a fan of the sushi roll (just wish there was more tempura in it) but my favorite was the french fries! Yum! 

Disclaimer: clearly, I'm not the poster child for best pre-race meals.

One of the walls by the kitchen

I really loved the details that went into the design for the space as well. Everything was well thought out and it just made my little designer heart so happy!

We were going to bowl a game, but by the time we finished eating, we were not in the mood to being doing anything the slightest bit active. We walked around downtown Disney- and by walked around, I mean back to our bus stop. It had already been a long travel day and we still had a bunch of action packed days to go!

What's your favorite thing to do at Downtown Disney? 

(3 things) Sweet potato tater tots, August and beautiful secrets

Tonight, my plans got cancelled. I was going to work on my social skills and gave a drink or two. Crazy, right?! Now the highlight of my night was geeking out with the Trader Joe's cashier over sweet potato tater tots. What what?! I know. You don't have to say it. But in all seriousness, I was kind of relieved. It's been a week! 

It's officially August! You know what that means?! #DumboDareChallenge is THIS month- or at least the 10k portion of it. If you're participating and haven't checked out the runDisney website for the 411, you are a slacker and need to get on this. They've uploaded the race courses, the waivers and the race programs! I will try very hard to keep the Dumbo talk to a minimum as it gets closer, but I can't make any promises. Not to put any pressure on it, but this race has been in the making for the past 2 years. I can't believe it's almost here. I'm too excited to sleep! 

Honestly, I'm also getting a little overwhelmed. A ton of people I know (IRL and Social Media) are going and I have no idea how to juggle getting to see everyone and getting to see everything. There just isn't enough time to do it all and that gives me anxiety. I feel like I want to create my own meet-up and everyone I know can come hang out with me for a couple of hours and be done with it. Sound like a good plan? Anyone else have this problem? How are you handling it? 

I will leave you with a picture from the 102 entrance to Central Park. I found out about this entrance when I ran the Pride Run in June and used it again for the Long Training Run last weekend. It's such a quiet and serene pathway (at least around 6AM), I feel like it's one of Central Park's beautiful secrets that many will never take the time to enjoy. 

What are some things that make you happy?