SPRING FAVORITES | Food | Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature’s Bakery

This post is sponsored by Blue Diamond Almonds
SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery
Blue Diamond Sriracha Almonds. When I was pregnant with Edith I must have gone through about five bottles (maybe more) or sriracha. I was obsessed with having it on everything and just couldn’t get enough. While it’s almost three years (yes my baby is turning three in three weeks) since I was pregnant with Edith my love for sriracha shines on. To say I was eager to try the new Blue Diamond Sriracha Almonds was an understatement and let me tell you they do not disappoint.
SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery
These almonds have a nice spice to them without being too over the top and they are bold, savory and have just a bit of a nice vinegar tang. We brought these hiking with us last weekend and between the three of us (Edith included) we finished off 3/4 of the tin. We would have finished off the entire tin but we had to practice a little restraint since we had brunch plans but oh it was hard.

These are a great hiking snack, moving snack – ooo these would be so good tossed into some popcorn with a little vegan butter and nutritional yeast – and these would be great for a cocktail party. Basically these are just good. I know I’m rambling but they are. 
SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery
Tidbit Food Farm & Gardens. I am embarrassed to say how often we head to this food cart pod (and how many more trips we already have planned) but after the first visit we were hooked. The first time we visited we had vegan waffles, ramen and salad – all were so delicious. On our last trip we got an amazing vegan burger from Earth Burger and oh the fries and the smoothie – they were so good. We also went back for another salad from Garden Monster; a bit on the pricey side but so good (try the vegan ranch). I love the layout of this food pod, all the vegan food options and the location. Tip: If you can’t find a seat grab your food to go and head one block down to the park. 

SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery

Tidbit Food Farm – Earth Burger

SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery

Tidbit Food Farm – Salad Monster

Nature’s Bakery. I figured I should end my food favorites with the snack that we don’t leave home without these days. We have been devouring Nature’s Bakery fig bars for the past few months. We received a stock for our snack dates over on Naturally Family and we have been eating them ever since. I have to say I was a fan of these bars before we received samples but we got to sample the soon to be released gluten free bars and OMG they are simply amazing. 

SPRING FAVORITES | Food |  Sriracha Almonds, Tidbit Food Farm, Nature's Bakery

The regular whole grain bars are delicious but the gluten free bars are soft and moist and oh so good. I’m thinking I need to go get one to snack on right now just writing about them. They are a fan among everyone in our family and our snack date groups. Just so good. 

What foods are you loving right now? 

My First Floating Experience | Float On Portland

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This past Saturday Neil and I headed to Float On, a sensory deprivation float tank center here in SE Portland, for our very first floating experience. I’ll admit I was pretty excited but I also was feeling pretty anxious as well. The thought of closing myself in a tank, in the dark and just floating there really freaked me out however the benefits which include deep relaxation, stress & pain relief where pretty enticing. 

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Screen Shot 2015-05-17 at 8.32.28 PMOnce we arrived I tried to calm my nerves by reading the Beginners Guide to Floating over and over but after the fifth time I was just making myself more anxious. So I put it down, grabbed a cup of herbal tea (caffeine is not recommended 4-6 hours before floating) and just tried to relax until it was time to float.   
FloatOn-5Once it was time to float Neil and I were given a little tour of the float rooms. We had rooms 1 and 2– the ocean float rooms which are taller and have a light as well. Neil was lucky and got room #2 the room with the star lights on the ceiling of the tank (see photo below). 
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Once we were walked through the steps of floating and I realized just how in control of the situation I was I began to feel less anxious. It also helped when I found out the float tank only contained around a foot of water. 
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Now it’s time to actually float. I put in my ear plugs which transported me back to my childhood when I had tubes and had to wear ear plugs to swim. Anyways moving on. 
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I showered (check out the lighted shower) and then it was time to hop into the tank. I chose to bring in the neck noodle just in case I wanted to use it to support my neck (and I did).

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photo credit http://floathq.com/

I climbed into the tank, closed the door, took a deep breath and turned out the light. I instantly felt super relaxed just floating there. Neil and I both agreed that while floating we felt both heavy and weightless at the same time. Being in the dark wasn’t strange at all, I actually found it completely relaxing and it wasn’t until I started feeling a little stuffy that I really noticed that I was closed in; you really just lose all sense of space. When I started to feel a little stuffy I felt around, grabbed the handle and popped open the door just a crack to let in a whoosh of cool air.

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photo credit https://www.facebook.com/floatHQ

So what did I do while I floated? Nothing really. I just floated and I spent some time focusing on my breath. I actually thought that I would spend a lot of time thinking and brainstorming but instead my mind just calmed down and I really didn’t think about much at all. I just completely relaxed. I thought I might fall asleep as well but I didn’t, I just floated there with my eyes wide open until it was time to get out.

As I said above you lose all sense of space (unless you drift towards a wall and touch it) and you also lose all sense of time. I will admit I started to feel a little bit anxious towards the end because my life seems to revolve around the clock. I start my morning trying to help Neil get out of the house in time for work and then the day revolves around nap times and meal times so not knowing how much longer I had made me want to jump out and check my phone -and I almost did. It wasn’t because I wanted to be done but rather because I had no idea how much time had passed. In the end I didn’t jump out to check my phone because seconds later the music came on signaling that my float was over and it was time to get out, shower and be on my way. 

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The above photo is a perfect image of blissed out Neil. Seriously we both left in a positive state of mind. We were relaxed and just felt absolutely amazing. 

Would I float again? YES! I would definitely float again and I think that the next time I will most likely be even more relaxed because all of those (silly) little anxieties I had won’t be there. I think knowing that I could get out of the tank whenever I felt the need (ie. just feeling uneasy, needing to go to the bathroom, get a drink of water, ect.) really made me feel in control and okay to do the float. Once I actually started the float I was kicking myself for not trying it sooner, especially when I was pregnant. I mean seriously what could be better than essentially feeling weightless while pregnant. Plus I truly believe water is a magical thing that just makes life better.

After floating I was thinking about how often I turn to water for therapeutic reasons for myself. I take a shower when I am feeling anxious or frustrated or a bath when I am feeling sore or just need to relax. I give the kids a bath or we do some sort of water play when they are cranky. So really floating is just another level of these things and when I think about it that way it makes so much sense to me why people love to do it. 

Have you ever tried floating? Would you like to? 

*Disclaimer: Float On provided Neil and I with free floats. I was not required to write a positive review and I received no compensation for this post. 

WIAW: Rawdacious | Portland, OR

Rawdacious PDX

This week it’s all about the cheesecake; specifically gluten free and vegan cheesecake from Rawdacious here in Portland. 
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Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit the Rawdacious kitchen to see where all the magic happens. Little did I know until about an hour before going that I had actually tried these delicious cheesecakes before at some of my favorite Portland restaurants. So that being said I was even more excited to try some new flavors. When I arrived Jenn, the owner of Rawdacious, presented me with three mini cheesecakes to sample.  While we chatted away while I stuffed myself silly with the most insanely delicious gluten free and vegan cheesecakes.  

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I sampled the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Northwest berries and cream and a chocolate one that I am forgetting the official name of. Of the three the PB one was my favorite but I already knew this because I have enjoyed it before at Sweet Hereafter and The Bye and Bye. I actually had no idea that cheesecakes at these two places where from Rawdacious but now I do and so do you!. My other absolute favorite from Rawdacious is the seasonal pumpkin cheesecake that I had last Fall at Canteen (see photo here).

Rawdacious PDX -11Anyone want to go in on this Matcha With Coconut Cheesecake? Rawdacious PDX-5

All of the cheesecakes are naturally vegan and gluten-free without a soy base. The raw base of the cheesecakes is made from organic cashews, homemade organic almond milk and organic coconut oil. The cheesecakes filled with quality organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. You can read more about the cheesecakes here.

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These beautiful and delicious handcrafted cheesecakes now come in mini sizes as well and can be found at Alberta Co-op, People’s CoopFood Front Cooperative and this summer you can find them at the St. John’s Farmers Market. You can also find them at a few other shops and restaurants around town including two of my favorites Prasad and HarlowRawdacious PDX -2

Not interested in venturing out for cheesecake? You could always have Postmates (if you’re lucky enough to live in the radius) deliver a 4-pack of minis or even a whole cake right to your doorstep. Rawdacious also takes special orders and does catering and would be perfect for a wedding or your next party ; Edith has already requested a few mini’s for her birthday (I don’t know who’s more excited me or her). Until then I’ll just have to find excuses to pick up a slice or mini when we are out and about.

Which flavor of Rawdacious cheesecake would you like to try? The Lemon Fig is at the top of my list and the Coffee With Cream & Fudge and ….well all of them really. 

*Disclaimer: I was invited to visit the kitchen and sample the cheesecakes. I was not compensated in any way for this post. I just simply can’t tell you enough about how insanely good these cheesecakes are. 

Fit In PDX | Therapydia Portland

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I am registered to run a race in just four weeks, but the truth of the matter is that it’s just not going to happen. I’m feeling pretty disappointed because it was the first race I ran after having Edith and it would have been the first race I ran after having Alder. But alas, my right side just isn’t happy. So, instead of running the race I’ve been going to physical therapy and working on getting stronger so that I will be able to run the six other races that I am registered for (so far) this year. 

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Honestly, I am kicking myself right now. Despite knowing that I should go and being encouraged by my physical therapist friend, Catherine, it took me months and an invitation from Therapydia Portland before visiting a physical therapist. After just two sessions, I’m already starting to feel stronger. Although these first two sessions were gifted (full disclosure, per FTC rules), Clinical Director Jason Villareal, DPT, ATC and PT Tech Nikki of Therapydia Portland have won me over and I’ve made my third appointment (that I’m fully responsible for).therapydia - biz card

For my first therapy session, Jason started with an evaluation of my troubled area (my right knee up to my hip) and checked the symmetry and flexibility of both of my legs. Once that was done, Jason got down to work on my knee doing some work on the leg as well as applying some heat therapy. Once my knee and side were warmed up Nikki, the PT Tech, guided me through and had me perform the exercises that are going to help strengthen/”fix” my right side. Below you’ll see Jason kindly modeling what I considered to be the most challenging exercise that I need to do. Basically I need to do a controlled squat with a band around my legs down on to the box and then stand all the way back up and repeat. 
therapydia stretch

Session two involved evaluating my progress over the past week, a running analysis (I’ll blog more specifically about this next week) and going through all of the same exercises again. Honestly, half way into my first session I knew I would be going back and continuing to go back until I am back to regular running. I am already noticing a difference and am learning what I need to work on. Right now there is no running going on just lots of exercises and gliding (fast walking). With the support and help of the Therapydia Portland team I know I’ll be back at it soon and hopefully I won’t just be back to running but I’ll be a much better runner.

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Jason and his PT tech Nikki are warm, welcoming and knowledgeable making it an easy decision to go back. Whether you are experiencing a running related injury (like myself) or another injury, sports related or not, this office is worth a visit. Therapydia Portland is centrally located at East Burnside and NE 28th in the Laurelhurst neighborhood. Street parking is easy to get and free. Also the office has early morning and later evening hours meaning you shouldn’t have a problem finding an appointment time that works for you. Learn more about Therapydia here.

Therapydia Portland 

2808 E Burnside St
Portland, OR
97214
US
Phone: 503.477.4802
Fax: 503.477.9395
 

Hours
Mon: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Tue: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wed: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thu: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Fri: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Not in PDX? Head on over to therapydia.com to find an office near you. 

Race | Bridge to Brews 2015 | Terrapin Events

Bridge to Brews - Brews Bridge to Brews - little runner Bridge to Brews - post kids race Bridge to Brews - see alder Bridge to Brews - i'm the man Bridge to Brews - beer lagunitasRace season has officially started at the Ingalweather house! We were up bright and early Sunday morning in route to Neil and Edith’s first races of the 2015 season the Bridge to Brews 8K and Kids 1/2 Miler.  

The kids race was on the small side and a bit over priced $12(!!) but Edith had fun once she started running so it was worth it. After Edith’s race we watched the start of the 8K/10K race to watch Neil cross the starting line. I was pretty impressed with the organization of the race and how quickly everyone got across the starting line. Once Neil passed us it was time to find coffee while Neil did the hard work for running over the Fremont and Steel Bridges. We made it back to the finish line and watched as the runners crossed the finish line and finally Neil crossed as well. 

After the race we headed to the post-race beer festival which included a beer mug and give drink tickets. Side note if you ever do this race get your ID checked and bracelet before you start the race so you can avoid the lines. Since it was 9:30am and I didn’t just run a race I passed on buying my own cup and beer tickets but I did steal a few sips of Neil’s beer. 

Once Neil had finished his beers and bowl of soup we headed out to lunch and then home for an unsuccessful nap time. On our drive home Neil and I discussed doing this race next year and hope that we can figure out a way for the both of us to run it. 

Next of big race on Neil’s agenda is The Helvetia Half  and we have five fun run 5K’s already planned as well. As for my race I am working with a physical therapist right now but I’m not sure that it’s going to happen. I may or may not decide to walk the course but we will see (side note more on PT next week). 

Did you race this weekend? Any big races planned this year? 

PDX Fit | Lorna Jane Bridgeport Village

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I have to say my very first postpartum outing sans tot and husband (Alder came as he is attached to da boob) couldn’t have been better. A solo(ish) outing to try on new workout clothes without chasing a toddler? Yes please!

I was running a little late because rain + Portland drivers = slow as molasses so I called to let the ladies know I was running late. Alisha was nice enough to take my size and pull some outfits for me so that they would be ready when I arrived. Well thirty minutes later I finally arrived to the beautiful Lorna Jane Bridgeport store and was greeted by Alisha and Alisha. 

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I was familiar with Lorna Jane prior to my style session and followed Lorna Jane on social media but had never tried the clothes myself. I have read tons of reviews and features on other blogs but I honestly have never taken the plunge into buying anything because from everything I had read Lorna Jane isn’t known for having clothes that fit plus sized bodies. Now this 3.5 month postpartum body is far from where I want it to be but I’m working at it so I honestly debated canceling my session all together because I didn’t know if I could handle not finding any clothes that fit me. In the end I decided that I just needed to go and if nothing worked I’d at least leave with an outfit that could be my goal outfit and a better understanding of the company. 

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Well let me tell you ladies I was pleasantly surprised to find that there were many items that did work really well for me especially bottoms. I had a little harder time with tops because well I’m a little top heavy right now due to nursing but I did find some great tops that worked and honestly rather than leaving with an outfit that would be a goal outfit I found an outfit that I feel great wearing. I also left with a greater knowledge of the Lorna Jane and the philosophy behind her brand; oh and a list of items that I want to go back and buy. 

Lorna Jane

While I ended up finding three different outfits that I loved I decided to go with the one below and add the other two outfits are on my ‘to buy list’. 

Lorna Jane Outfit

The Outfit I was Gifted: 

Amy F/L Tight

Sophmore Sports Bra

Top- Similar

(THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!)

So Lorna Jane isn’t only about cute workout clothes for women it is also about creating community and inspiring women to move, nourish and believe in themselves. One addition to the Lorna Jane Bridgeport store that I can’t wait for is the Active Living Room. Lorna Jane Bridgeport will be hosting two FREE classes per day in their active living room. Eventually they hope to have more classes including pilates, yoga, bootcamp, barre and so many more fitness classes as well as nutritional classes. The Active Living Room is set to open in late December and you can bet I’ll be back for classes which inevitably means that my wallet will be emptied as well (I mean I need to go back for those two other outfits). 

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Until the Active Living Room opens I’ll be trying out the workout from the Lorna Jane Active magazine and the Move Nourish Believe website. Have you checked out the Move Nourish Believe website yet? Seriously one of my favorite sites for to go for workout, recipe and lifestyle inspiration. You can check out my favorite posts and quotes from Lorna Jane on my Pinterest Board. LornaJane-BridgeportVillage-MOVENOURISHBELIEVELorna Jane Workout

Have you ever been nervous to do something to find yourself pleasantly surprised? Have you ever tried Lorna Jane clothes or checked out the Move Nourish Believe Website? 

Instagram: @lornajaneactive
Google+: +Lorna Jane 
 
Disclaimer: Via my Sweat Pink ambassadorship, Fitapproach invited me to a Lorna Jane style session and I was gifted a complimentary outfit in return for this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Whole Foods Market // Greenway // Tigard, OR

Who loves Whole Foods? I know I do. I love the shopping experience, the store layout, the friendly staff and the quality of food. When we lived across the street from Whole Foods you could easily find me there a few days per week and now even 9 months after moving to a new home the rare time I visit our former local Whole Foods I have staff members who remember me (that’s how often I was there).

WFMGreenwayOf course when I was invited to a media sneak peek of the new Whole Foods opening in Tigard, OR I had to go and check it out. The store is opening up tomorrow (May 21st) and let me tell you this store is pretty awesome. While it has some of the same features as your standard Whole Foods it also has some different things you won’t find at every Whole Foods or at least at the ones here in the Portland area.

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Can we talk about how beautiful these signs are? Seriously!

They are also hand drawn/colored local artists.

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Check out the awesome bulk area.

Plus they have their own nut butter grinding station.IMG_7605 IMG_7609

With the most amazing chocolate hazelnut nut butter.

Seriously you have to come to this store just for this one item alone. We were lucky to sample it and Edith may have sneaked an extra sample or two.IMG_7611The wine and beer section was pretty impressive and had me longing for a nice glass of red or crisp white (I am counting down the weeks -10 more if you’re keeping track).

IMG_7612 Another awesome feature is beer on draft and you can buy growlers! There are going to be four local beers on tap ready for you take home. For the wine lovers there will be growler fills for a few different wines as well!IMG_7617Check out the sandwich options. For my vegan friends doesn’t that reuben sound insane? Neil and I are already making plans to stop in and try one out when the store officially opens.
WFMGreenway SandwichesFor my coffee, smoothie and/or juice lovers there is a bar just for you at this Whole Foods. Also something I learned (probably old news) but non-dairy milks DO NOT cost extra for coffee drinks!!IMG_7624Okay I saved the best for last. Check out this insane outdoor seating area. Seriously so beautiful! I have never seen anything like this before and if I lived just a little bit closer you can bet I would be here regularly to work and/or relax. I didn’t get a good interior shot but the inside sitting area is pretty awesome as well and has as really communal feel which is great for larger parties.WFMGreenway Beautiful Outside AreaOkay so that is my sneak peek for you of the new Whole Foods Greenway in Tigard. I am hoping to head out tomorrow for the grand opening which is at 9am and take advantage of all the grand opening deals. Who’s with me?

Whole Foods Market- Greenway
12220 SW Scholls Ferry Road
Tigard, OR 97223