Healthy Recipes: Apple Cinnamon Protein Balls

Before my early morning runs I always want to give my body a little boost of protein to hold it over until breakfast. All people are different but for me I feel sick while working out with a full stomach. So I always keep my freezer full of little baggies of protein balls and have one or two before I head out.

I decided to create a new autumn version of the pre-workout treat, Apple Cinnamon Protein Balls. 

Here is what you need:

1/2 cup of peanut butter

3 1/2 cup rolled oats 

* I use any oats that are on sale and you don't need to cook.

3/4 cup apple sauce

1/3 cup maple syrup

2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp ginger

Mix all ingredients together. Roll into balls. Put into little bags and put in freezer. Enjoy!!

*If your mix is too wet, add more oats or put in fridge for a half hour. Then roll.into balls. If too dry add more peanut butter.

Beach: Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Every summer I always try to make a trip up to Salisbury Beach, which is about an hour north of Boston. It only costs $9 for the day. The part I enjoy the most is that since there is a long drive way before you enter the parking lot you don't hear any traffic just the sounds of the ocean. A peaceful way to spend your day reading or just relaxing. 

There are restrooms, changing rooms, a playground for children, and picnic areas. One thing you will want to do is make sure that you pack your own food. Since there is no where close to walk to. 

There is a beautiful boardwalk that leads you to the beach or a lookout deck. 

The beach is open all year. The summer hours Memorial Day thru Labor Day are 8AM-10PM. If you would like more information go to: www.salisbury-beach.org

Fitness: Motivation

I am training for my first half marathon and everyday (especially on long runs) I need a way to keep me motivated. So every night I find a new quote to write in my fitness journal and every morning when I wake up I see it and know that I am able to push myself to my goal. Here are some of the quotes I have found that pump me up. Hopefully they can do the same for you. 

Travel: Land of Nod Vineyard & Winery

A couple weeks ago there was beautiful weather, my family and I decided to go try out a winery that we have never visit before. We headed out to the Berkshires of Connecticut to Land of Nod Vineyard & Winery. 

The Land of Nod is on a rural country road that reminded me of traveling through Ireland. When you arrive you pull up to a small barn next to a historical 1700's home. Outside of the barn you are able to enjoy wine and snacks (You have to bring your own snacks. We picked up a sub and some chips.) on the outdoor deck.

Inside we were able to taste fout different wines Bianca, Ironmaster Reserve, Raspberry Wine and Chocolate Raspberry Dessert Wine. They all were great, especially the dessert wine which I would definitely buy for a holiday. The wine tasted fresh and was a great tripe for the end of the summer.

If you would like to check it out here is the address:

Land of Nod Vineyard & Winery

99 Lower Rd

East Canaan, CT 

(860) 824-5225