Often, when there is a decision or a choice to be made, I look for a sign while I am weighing my options. Sometimes it comes after I have made my decision, as it did this morning when I couldn't decide whether or not I was too sore to take a run. Yesterday's workout was pretty intense; enough so that most parts of my body seemed to be cursing my trainer this morning, including some obscure muscles that run along my side that I never knew existed.
I decided to go for it, figuring that the worst that would happen is that I'd have to stop and walk--and since walking is one of the single best things we can do for our health, a failed run would still have been a win.
The loop I take around my neighborhood is only two miles and, truthfully, I had only planned on taking it once anyway. A mile into the loop, I ran by this lovely sign. Fresh figs, yes, only $2.00 a dozen. These suckers were huge, too, nearly as big as a baseball. I don't know their variety but their flavor was rich and reminiscent of honey. Yes, I realize this roadside stand is constructed of cat litter bins and no, I did not eat the figs as I ran by.
Something really amazing happened to me when I saw this sign. Fearful that I would not be able to get home and gather up enough cash to beat other passers by, I ran fast. I don't know the last time I ran quite as quickly, but the promise of good food is always a great motivator for me.
Moments later I was digging through my purse, my dresser, the console of my car and finally my husband's wallet. My efforts produced four singles, enough for two dozen of these delectable goodies. I even saved a dozen for the next lucky passerby.
After eating two on the way home, I hit the kitchen and sliced two more. I sweetened 1/2 cup of homemade Greek/strained yogurt with 2 teaspoons of local, raw honey. Into the yogurt I added my favorite yogurt accompaniment: chia seeds. Chia seeds are nutrient powerhouses that swell up to ten times their size so they not only help the body with hydration and digestion, but help keep us fuller longer--all while adding a nutrient punch that includes omega-3s, calcium, fiber and protein. They gel up and give the yogurt a tapioca texture which I also love. You may have seen some recipes online for chia pudding. No matter how you get your chia in, it's good stuff.
Oh and I sprinkled basil on top because I have been obsessed with adding it to unlikely places lately. And because I have a ton of the stuff growing around my yard!
My post-run breakfast was rich in nourishment and tasted friggin amazing. It really is the simple things that make a balanced life so very rich.
Per serving, not including the figs I ate on the way home:
Look at all that honest, real food nutrition. It's a sure sign to love the foods that love you back.~
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