Thursday, January 11, 2007

Snow Day Number Two

This is the view off my front porch. I know it is nothing compared to what other parts of the country get, and really, even what we've gotten in the past. But this is what it is today - compact snow and ice on the roads, schools closed and the college is closed. It's a balmy 27 degrees out and I just came in from my run. Another five miles, in about 1:06 again. I guess I'm just slow in the snow. I ran up the new road to the college again, this time following another set of tracks. I thought it was hard work running through the snow, but couldn't quite figure out why. Is it because there is a kind of resistance, like running in sand? Or because I am placing my feet carefully so I won't fall? No matter, it was beautiful and quiet and peaceful. I don't think we are supposed to get any more snow, but the cold temps are here through the weekend.

I have been on a cooking kick lately - comfort foods for the stormy weather. Last week I made the guys stew - from scratch and including meat. I made myself a separate pot with veggie broth and veggie meatballs as the base. Then I cooked them a roast (bought it pre-marinated) with red potatoes, Caesar salad and green beans (I had lentil loaf). Last night was homemade lentil soup - vegetarian. Oh, was it good! I think tonight will be french dips with the leftover roast on ciabatta rolls. (I have a veggie burger and cheese on mine, and I buy a packet for the au jus - there is not a single mention of beef in the ingredients). This always happens when it gets stormy in mid-winter. Unfortunately, as soon as the weather start to lighten up, so does my urge to cook. I really don't like to cook in the summer - it's too hot and sounds like too much work.

Tomorrow is a rest day, and I'm not sure about Pilates. I don't think Eric will be available to go to the Y with me, and I am such a wimp on icy roads. I guess I should call in today and find out what the policy is...

17 comments:

Anonymous said...

wow, how beautiful and peaceful.

(and i LOVE cooking in the winter!)

Legs and Wings said...

Really great photos. Nice. Oh, and it is good to run on snow once in a while because it works your muscles in a different fashion. I ran on an icy sidewalk yesterday and I feel it today in my ankles and shins. Of course, you have to be careful as I'm sure you are.

And, the food smells good from here!

Unknown said...

I think it's hard work more due to worrying about where you place your feet and watching for ice. I try to stay in the fresh powder and preferably off the cement where there will be ice, but this is not usually possible for much of the run. I am going to go make a run to the store and pick up movies and snacks with my backpack. I'll feel like a real adventurer.

Wes said...

I've seen some beautiful pictures of the show out in the NorthWest, including yours. That's awesome. It's going to be 70 degrees here again this weekend, and I'm wonder where is Ole Man Winter?

Emily said...

Beautiful pictures!!! Hopefully we will see you this weekend.

Darrell said...

It sure is pretty and the sky is so blue.

Anonymous said...

Michelle- Could I come and eat at your house? I am in no mood to cook, altough I did feel comfort foody last night and made something I only learned about after having kids and Pual's mom cooked for us...tater-tot casserole. It has meat, so it's not for you. I liken it to hobo stew cooked in the campfire wrapped in tinfoil. Sure was good and hit the spot! Got my wish today, though school cancelled, I would have preferred two hour late start. Snow is beautiful today, though very cold! Running was perfect. See you Sat. won't drive to the track tonight.

Anne said...

Yes, those snow scenes are a beauty...Is it me, or does something sound funny about "veggie meatballs"?!

susie said...

I don't think that's so slow for snow! Good for you...
Anytime you want to come cook for me, come ahead! You've made me hungry:)

Olga said...

Gorgeous picture! I love snow and no wind. I agree with Rob on "why".

Joe said...

Great pix, Michelle...the sunshine on the snow makes it spectacular!

Running on snow is slow, I think, mostly due to the poor footing. You just can't push off well...add it up and it slows one down a lot.

The best thing in the snow is just to get in the miles and not sweat (obsess??!!) over the time. AND enjoy the view if you can run in the sunshine!!!

Hope Eric is enjoying working from home!! Your cooking will surely help him enjoy being at home!!!

Anonymous said...

First of all, you're making me hungry. I was about to steam some zuchinni and make some mac and cheese. How boring am I? :)

The snow looks great. I kept wishing for a snow day. We got flakes, but nothing worth writing home about. :) But, boy is it cold now! Yikes!

Happy running/eating! :)

Sarah said...

Can you come over and cook for us? : ) ; )

Pretty pictures! We finally got enough snow this morning to close the schools but its nearly all gone now.

Ryan said...

What a great way to enjoy the weather, nothing beats some good old home cooking after a snowy run. Have yourself a nice weekend.

matt said...

i want to move to where you guys live. that is so beautiful...hmmm, i need to convince my wife now :)

Sarah Elaine said...

Nice photos!

There is something comforting about being inside near the warm stove when it's cold outside, eh?

That reminds me... I was going to make chile con carne today...

Anonymous said...

Love the pics! And, I'm sure glad you have the snow and we don't!