Sophisticated Mama

Isn't it funny how as we age our tastes change? The fabric on the arm chair in the living room (I think I've mentioned it here before) that I loved when I had it made, now makes me twitch. Those shoes I thought were so cute that now live on the top shelf in the closet. Let's just let that one alone. Similarly, for years, softly cooked eggs made me shudder. Now, at the most random moments I crave them. The thought of Eggs Benedict makes me salivate. What's that about?

It's easy to attribute my adoration of the lovely runny egg to the virtues of my ladies and the gems they leave me everyday. But, I so vividly remember the first time I ate Eggs Benedict and distinctly remember feeling very sophisticated. Though it's many years, and a backyard flock later, I am convinced it's purely my heightened level of sophistication.

Okay, maybe not.

Anyway.....after the running of my third Shamrock Shuffle we were able to score a primo bar table at one of my favorite places on Michigan Avenue, The Gage.


A brunch and lunch menu - at one time. Good thing I had a bloody mary to help me through it. There were many, many delicious choices, including some of my old favorites, fries with curry dip, Scotch eggs and fried chicken livers. Doug chose a simple prime burger with bleu cheese sauce. It was fabulous. I ate....some...of it.


With all the lovely choices, my desire was clear immediately. Six words. Grits, Goat Cheese, Kale and Eggs.


At this point, I am at an utter failure for words. I know, hard to believe. Absolutely one of the most wonderful dishes I've ever eaten. Absolutely something I could make at home. Absolutely simple. Absolutely perfect. Absolutely worth every penny of $11.

Absolutely the choice of a romantic lady? Dunno.

Absolutely indicative of a sophisticated mama? For sure.

Kool and the Gang fan? Not so much.

Shamrock Shuffle 3x

Again this year Doug and I ran the Shamrock Shuffle 8k. Again, this year was a training/just for-fun race for Doug. Again, this year was weeks of fear and anxiety based upon the thought of being unable to reach the end. Rationality tells me - every year - that I'll finish yet each race is a new fresh hell.


It was a great drive to the city the morning of the race. Even though we left a bit later than usual and Doug barely made it into his corral I had plenty of time. It took forever for the race to start for the those of in the race corrals equivalent of nose-bleed seats. I think I had been running for 15 minutes when Doug began calling to see if I was done yet. Yeah, I wanted to hurt him.


But alas, as proven by the lifting of the Michelob Ultra (insert icckky face here) I crossed the finish line and was celebrating with a breakfast beer and a banana.


It's always fun and exciting to be in the city, especially on a perfect day. The people watching was great, the views clear, the sunshine divine, the company exceptional.


Too soon we were on the road home....


Already I've committed to running a 10k in June.


Again, a fresh new hell.

What's wrong with me?

What Was I Thinking?

I began running again shortly after the first of the year. I really enjoy running but as with many things sometimes it gets pushed to the bottom of the list. After I...(do the impossible)...I'll run. Then, of course, when life gets busy, it's the first thing to go. Coming off a 2 week break I climbed back on the treadmill yesterday.



Doug and I plan to do the Shamrock Shuffle again - so much fun. It's also good for my heart, cholesterol level, overall fitness blah,blah,blah.....

I kicked around doing a half marathon a few years ago. It would be the perfect accomplishment as I entered my 40's. As often happens (so nice to get to know myself as I grow older) I was afraid and talked myself out of it. Fear can really get the best of me but I put it in the guise of other things - time, bodily pain, toilets need to be cleaned. Convenient, eh?

Several weeks ago, Doug forwarded the email for a half marathon . I hit the link and signed up, without debating. This is the year I'll be out there. I've shared it with anyone kind enough to read. Now I am committed.



What was I thinking? I am scared to death.

A Story Problem

What do you get when....

You take 7 Cross Country Runners

and add....

2# of tortilla chips
1 1/2# grilled chicken
1# cheddar cheese
1 quart homemade chili
A bowl of guacamole
A pint of sour cream
2 cups of homemade salsa
2 cans of refried black beans
1 can whole black beans...



Absolutely nothing....

Shamrocks, Tacos and Beer

For the second time, Doug and I ran the Shamrock Shuffle. Doug has been a runner for years. Confident for years I'd never be a runner, must admit I've enjoyed my recent attempts. It's something Doug and I can do together - even if he crosses the line before I do. Finishing a race has perks beyond that great feeling of accomplishment, too.

Last year the Shuffle was run in several inches of snow and slush. This year, the snow stopped just before the start but it was overcast and freezing. So, why subject myself to this?

The really, really bright green shirt? No.


The neat number pinned on my really, really, bright green shirt, then hung on the garage fridge? No, that's not it either.


Pretty much it's the beer.


It is the beer this shy running stud is toasting - even if it is crappy ultra-light. When crossing the finish line, the refrain heard over and over? Many - all including the word "beer". It's always socially acceptable to drink beer following a run - even if it's 10am.

Frustrated by crowds in our favorite post-race spots, we searched elsewhere for seats to rest our weary bones and grab a bite. We lucked into a gem when we happened across Flaco's Tacos. This quaint and casual taco joint was just what we needed.



Bright colors, cool decor and empty seats.


Nachos with homemade chips.


These delicious fish tacos for only $2.25 each!


And, of course, beer.


The perfect way to celebrate my Irish-Mexican heritage.

Well, at least the perfect way to spend a Sunday.