Hello there. It feels like I haven’t talked to you in ages. Actually, since some posts were pre-scheduled last week it really has been a while since I’ve opened my computer to blog. Reading and commenting took a backseat last week too, for a few reasons I won’t get into now. Anyway, this past weekend was my fall break. The word “break” should be changed to “long weekend” because it was just Thursday and Friday (we have class today, Columbus Day), but I won’t get into that now.
Whenever I come home for these breaks I immediately snap in to relaxation mode. It’s like a light goes off in my head as soon as my feet touch ground in Tampa and my priorities switch from “getting through” to “recharging.” It means slow mornings, food galore, naps, seasonal activities and life-talks. Sometimes I think Tampa has magic powers, but really, it’s just me breaking my routine and taking time to cover the basics. It sounds silly but I’m not embarrassed that I need and cherish these short breaks from school.
Before I share some weekend highlights, a few orders of business:
- CONGRATS to everyone who raced yesterday! It will be fun to read race recaps this week.
- Be on the lookout for a post with my injury update this week. Spoiler alert: it’s not looking good.
Weekend Highlights
-Delicious food galore. My mom spoiled me and every meal was incredible.
Chicken and zoodles with an avocado, tomato, parsley and lime sauce
Acai bowl with KIND Healthy Grains, coconut flakes and blueberries
Acorn squash stuffed with pumpkin and mushroom rice. Not the best picture but SO GOOD.
-Using this lovely new Blentec (!!) that my mom bought. I had daily (sometimes twice daily) smoothies. I’m officially obsessed.
-A Saturday morning run replaced with a bike cruise along the water. Not the same, but at least the view was pretty.
-Experimenting with pumpkin carving. Instead of the typical “scary face” we tried to be creative. I really just wanted the pumpkin seeds.
-Daily cuddles with this cute face.
Now I’m back in 305 safely, thanks to my favorite travel companion.
*Linking up to MIMM*
You were right the first time–Tampa really does have magic powers :) Glad you got to recharge. It always surprises me how much I need a disconnected getaway every now and then. I feel the same way when I’m at my parents’ house for the weekend, away from work stressors. Have a great Monday! :)
Lindsay @ A Runnaroundd Life recently posted…oatmeal, hemp hearts & a giveaway.
Tampa is the best. I think Bayshore in particular works wonders.
All of your meals from your break look incredible! My favorite part of visiting home is my mom spoiling me with home cooked meals because 1) I don’t have to cook and 2) they are so darn delicious!
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…Clarkston Back Roads Half Marathon Training Week 4
Exactly how I feel!!!
Your Mom looks like an amazing cook! :-) Sorry about your injury– that stinks!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt recently posted…Weekend Photo Dump – Type A Blog Conference
I much prefer her cooking to going out to restaurants!
Sorry to hear about your injury…I don’t want to read that post :(
Gretchen recently posted…Weekend in Ohio Highlights
I don’t want to write that post :(
O no! I hope the little recharging weekend helped a tiny bit at least :(
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Cinnamon Glazed Pumpkin Doughnuts
It helped a lot mentally! Not so much with my foot…
I really think fall breaks need to be longer- I only get 1 day off (welcome to dental school) and I will still be busy with assignments, so I am not sure that i will even get to go home :( Your recharging weekend looks so nice though! Got to love when your mom cooks up some good food! That smoothie bowl looks amazing! I am a huge fan of smoothie bowls. I hope your injury gets better and you can be on the road to recovery in no time!
Kerri Mcgrail recently posted…The Ultimate Vegetable Crockpot Soup
Right? Why call it a break if it’s only a long weekend AND you still have assignments due? Hope you can take a little time to yourself over your “break”
I love moms who spoil their kids (I am a guilty mom) The best thing I ate this weekend was a salad from Pyros Pizza, it was so good. I am sorry about your injury, speedy healing
bakingrunner.blogspot.com
I love those moms too :)
That stuffed squash sounds so delicious. I’m glad you got some time to relax and recharge this weekend! Funny what a little time away from school can do :)
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…6 Ways to Have a Wonderful (Mon)Day
Just the change of scenery helped I think! But the extra love and food didn’t hurt.
I always used to get that sense of immediate relaxation when I pulled into my home station on a break away from university even if it was only for a weekend. Somehow deadlines and pressures just didn’t seem to matter (at least temporarily!).
Your injury situation doesn’t sound good- hope its not as bad as it seems xx
Charlotte recently posted…Currently… September 2015
Yes, yes, yes! Nothing else mattered when I got home. I didn’t open a book for homework at all.
I had the best lobster roll and french fries yesterday…I savored every single bite it was so good and buttery! Looks like a fabulous weekend and I love your cruiser…XOXO
She Rocks Fitness recently posted…You Have A Choice…Part V
Lobster roll = the epitome of a New England meal :)
I definitely recharge solo with a book.
I wish I could in a group— I have so many friends who do–but I CAINT :-)
CARLA recently posted…No, Im not pregnant and other embarrassing moments.
I can’t recharge in a group either…that’s the introvert in me!
Aw I’m glad you enjoyed your time at home!! I do the same thing. Not this weekend for obvious reasons, but when I’m home with no plans I really like to just relax and recharge the batteries. I’m in need of a day to do that.
Sarah @pickyrunner recently posted…Newport Marathon
You did exactly the opposite this weekend but ALL for good reason :) Hope you’re feeling well!
how wonderful you have a place like that ! where you just can switch into relax mode when you are there ! dont ever let them move ! i dont really have a place like that. thats probably a problem and why i have a hard time relaxing. home is not really a relaxing place for me since we are redoing our house and its an endless to do list project thing there. other than my bedroom which is already done and i do sorta exhale when i go in there from time to time. i hope the injury improves !
Trust me, I tell them not to move all the time! I moved a lot growing up so it’s really special to have a place like Tampa that feels like home.
I hope all is okay with you Emily. :( It makes me sad to see you’re in need of a recharge, but I am so so glad you are taking care of yourself. Mental health >.>.> everything else. It’s not easy to always take a step back, but it is so important.
If you need anything, I am always here! <3
Julia @ Lord Still Loves Me recently posted…WIAW: A Day in the Life of a Sophomore Resident Advisor
Thanks, as always, Julia :) Nothing a few good home cooked meals and cuddles with my dog couldn’t help. I’m glad I got that time at home.