I’m an all-or-nothing kind of girl. Go big or go home. Anything worth doing is worth doing well.
I’d rather have 3 meals a day than 6 small ones – because I want each meal to feel special.
So last night, planning out tomorrow [today] in my head, I considered my options:
- Get up and run first thing, which means I’m stiff and hungry
- Get up, eat a big breakfast, and run last minute, pushing my punctuality
- Get up, eat half a breakfast, relax, run, eat second breakfast
Just call me a hobbit, because I chose #3. I normally don’t like to split meals in two, but sometimes it makes so.much.sense!
Plus, today I was torn between Great Harvest Warrenton Cranberry Orange and Lynda’s granola, so this way I got to have both 🙂
First breakfast was upon waking, I had a toast of Cranberry Orange (which is 100% whole wheat!) Topped with jam and Nuttzo!
After about 30 minutes of digestion, Matt and I left on a run.
We ran on a new pathway through the woods for part of the run. It’s always wonderful to get in a little earth time first thing in the morning.
We covered just under 5 miles in about 50 minutes.
Second breakfast!
Featuring Lynda’s Granola!
Pablo and Lynda accidentally changed the recipe on Lynda’s granola and now it has HUGE clumps of oaty goodness. My new favorite cereal!!!!! I hope we can make this at our store too with their secret technique!
Served over kefir, which was an amazing creamy combo
Served with a sip of coffee. Still reducing!
We have a noontime lunch meeting, which we are biking to, and then at 3PM event where we’re giving out bread. I probably won’t be back until after dinner! Lentils are defrosting from the freezer to serve on this busy day.
xoxo
Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin says
I’ve never tried Kefir before but noticed it was on sale this week at my grocery store… maybe I’ll pick some up! I always split my breakfast up so it takes longer to eat. Good for you for pounding out 5 miles!!
Holly @ The Runny Egg says
Cranberry orange bread sounds delicious!
And I do what you did this morning — eat a little, run, eat some more!
Hope says
Cranberry orange bread looks so good! I love thick the bread looks! I need to get to GH as soon as possible to try some of these breads that you keep posting about 🙂
Christie {Nourishing Eats} says
I have a ginger granola recipe on my blog that clumps! The secret ingredient for me is brown rice flour and a little extra liquid. I am working on a clumping peanut butter granola recipe now as my current recipe is a non-clumper 😀
Linda says
It’s pretty obvious that you get a TON of free goodies from your readers and companies, and that obviously cuts down on your grocery bills. Items like granola, gourmet peanut butters and the like are expensive! As such, it makes no sense for the majority of people who don’t have the benefit of freebies to spend $$$ on the organic goods you so tout. I eat conventional fruits and veggies and am just as healthy as you.
KathEats says
Nobody said you had to buy a thing!
Linda says
Yes, but you encourage it.
Candice says
You can make both granola and your favorite nut butter for much less of the cost of the grocery store. I buy oats and nuts in bulk for that reason. Sure it might not be the same as the fancy store bought stuff, but that way you can tailor it to the flavors you like!
Baking 'n' Books says
Good point Candice. Also I don’t buy these things, but I don’t feel Kath “encourages” it. She just shows what she eats!
Do you run everyday Kath?
Linda says
Glad you have oodles of time to do that. But as someone who works full-time, then has to squeeze in a gym workout, spending time with my husband, reading and sometimes cooking, making my own food just cannot fit in.
Linda says
Sorry that was for Candice, just for clarification.
JenATX says
I dont have the time to make my own granola or nut butters either. I just buy them when I can or buy really generic brands.. which is part of the reason why I read Kath’s blog; I can drool over her beautiful food products & food creations. If it bothers you though I know of a TON of bloggers with full time jobs & you might enjoy reading those. One of my favs is my good friend from college over at Letsbehealthyandhappy.. check her out! 🙂
Linda says
Thanks Jen– I will look into hers– I’ve had a hard time finding food bloggers with full-time jobs who are more relatable!
Jessie Kessler says
I agree!
Missy says
Last I was aware, we all have free will. To do/buy what we want. Maybe you should try it sometime, exercising the skills that most adults possess – that of restraint…
Missy says
That was for Linda…
Linda says
I do exercise restraint often Missy. In fact I do it every damn day. You don’t have to get nasty b/c I point out a good point— that KERF gets tons of freebies thereby enabling her to buy expensive produce and other goods. In turn, she encourages others who don’t have her means to follow her lifestyle.
Candice says
Yes, but you don’t need to put others down in the process. Kath does what works for her, and I do what works for me. You are free to do what you want too. And I also work full time as a renal dietitian, part time as a photographer, exercise daily, cook dinner, and participate in many activities. It takes me 15 minutes to make granola that last 2 weeks. Not that much time.
Linda says
That 15 minutes can be spent making lunch for the next day. And I’m NOT putting anyone down, just pointing out that freebies add up to more $$$ for gourmet goodies. Stop being so KERF-defensive!
Jenn says
Well, it is her blog…
Linda says
Yes, hers, not yours
Jenn says
You’re wasting a lot of time on here where you could be making granola.. lol
Rebekah says
Ha, this reminds me of the Daily Show bit where they did a CRIBS for teachers. Check out this blingin’ jar of peanut butter and this designer granola made with solid chunks of gold and blood diamonds! Kath, you are livin’ larrrrrrge.
Kori says
Jenn-You’re hilarious and also have an excellent point.
Linda-There is absolutely NO reason to attack Kath or anyone else because you cannot afford the same foods as them. There is also NO excuse to curse on KERF either. Find another blog that suits you, and stop reading this one. Case closed.
Bri says
My goodness this discussion turned nasty rather quickly! I’ve found that pretty much anything is doable, it’s just a matter of figuring out if it’s worth the hassle to you. Linda, you can definitely do the glamorous organic foods for cheap throug bulk bins at high end grocery stores. I go every 2 weeks and spend $20 or less (usually less) each time. Also, some places are just easier to eat local and organic in than others. I live in California and can get cheap, local produce year round while my mom in MD only gets it 6 or so months of the year. But it sounds like you’ve got a routine that works for you and that’s pretty much all that matters.
Linda says
“Damn” as a curse? Gimme a break.
Bronwyn Coyne says
That cranberry orange bread looks delicious. And I love the bowl/glass from your granola + coffee, where are they from?
KathEats says
They’re Bodum brand
Lisa Fine says
I agree – the presentation with those two glasses is really beautiful.
Michelle says
Was going to ask about the bowl/glass myself … sooo cool!
Christina says
I love the consistency and yogurt-y taste of kefir! And what adorable placemats!
faith says
I did the run-breakfast sandwich yesterday morning, 2/3 of my bowl of oats, run, scrape the bowl. It takes a little forethought, like you said, but it’s a good way to go.
Marie says
Hi Kath
Just wondering about those “frozen lentils” – are they precooked? I usually just store mine dry, then boil them up as I need them. I’m wondering if you generally freeze the already cooked lentils and, if so, how well do they dethaw?
thanks!
KathEats says
They’re a recipe I made a while ago and froze – just like you’d freeze a soup or casserole. I’ve never done it before, but we’ve thawed soups many times and they work great. You can just stick in a hot pot and heat
Marie says
thanks! And speaking of lentils — you should try Angela’s Ultimate Lentil Loaf recipe (oh she glows). I always make 2 loaves so that I have one to freeze, and the dethawed and reheated loaf still tastes great!!
KathEats says
Oh fun – I’ve been craving a loaf of some kind!
lynn @ the actor's diet says
i love clumpy granola. i just want clumps!!!
Ash @ Good Taste Healthy Me says
I typically eat a piece of toast before working out and then have my actual breakfast after my workout. It works out nicely. I have to eat before I work out, otherwise it’s a total waste of time.
Kayla @ Fitter Than Choc says
I tried the second option once, and ended up in a really bad state during my run. I think I would have opted for the third option too. I can’t help but wonder how you can make such a simple slice of toast look so delectable.
Ally (Girl V Food) says
Lately I’ve been doing option 2, ’cause running before breakfast just makes me tired and super hangry for the rest of the day. Like I’m eating just to catch up on my calories and not eating for leisure. But usually I prefer option 4: Work out in the afternoon! 🙂
Elisabeth says
I wish I could figure out which option I prefer… I work third shift & find it very hard to figure out when to exercise…
Kayla @ Fitter Than Choc says
Perhaps you could exercise before you head off to work? Apparently, I read somewhere that it is better to work out during late afternoon.
Justeen @ Blissful Baking says
I usually eat several small meals/snacks every day. I’m really indecisive, so I like to have a little bit of this and a little bit of that! 🙂
Heather (heathers dish) says
While you’re giving out bread you wanna send some to Colorado? 😉
Lucy @ The Sweet Touch says
I love the chunky clumpies (is that a word?!).
Also want to try that kefir stuff, it looks interesting!
Freya (Brit Chick Runs) says
I love dividing meals in two, and actually like to eat lots throughout the day – cos eating is fun! :p But by the evening, I do like 1 big meal – it’s comforting and sends me to sleep 🙂
Have a fab day!
Laughter-Loving Stacy says
Nice! The option you pick is the way I go. Like you said, it just seems to make sense!
Amanda- The Nutritionist Reviews says
I agree with your all or nothing philosophy!
Katie says
I usually eat my breakfast during the week similar to how you did today… a good piece of toast with some nut butter before I work out so that I don’t get sick and then usually yogurt or a smoothie (or a yogurt smoothie ha) after I get back home. But I do agree about making each meal feel special, so I much prefer the days on the weekend when I can enjoy a big, leisurely breakfast.
I have been seriously wanting to try Great Harvest Bread since reading about it on your blog forever ago, but there isn’t one within a reasonable driving range of where I live now. However, today I decided to look and see if there are any locations near where we’re moving to (Honolulu) and was so excited to see there are two!! I can’t wait to try it.
Whitney says
I find it interesting that you prefer three larger meals over 6 small meals. I enjoy “grazing” throughout the day and never like to feel stuffed so I go with eating a small meal/snack every 3-4 hours. Did you study this in school to become a dietician? I’ve always heard that eating small multiple meals is good for your metabolism as well. Would love to hear your thoughts! Enjoy your day! 🙂
Kori says
I am currently an undergraduate in nutrition but will be going into graduate school for my M.S. in Public Health Nutrition. I worked with a doctoral student last year, and her study was on eating frequency and weight loss. She defends her work this May, so I will hear her explain all of her findings then. As of right now, I do not believe there is any research that definitively states which is better. I choose to graze, but it is ultimately up to your lifestyle. I hope this helped answer your question some. 🙂
KathEats says
I’d love to hear what her research says. Everything that I have heard says it doesn’t matter how or when you get calories – it’s the total calories that matter.
Kori says
I’ll definitely let you know once I get all of the details! 🙂
Whitney says
Thanks Kori! Would love to hear the research as well! 🙂
J3nn (Jenn's Menu and Lifestyle Blog) says
I love that round spoon! SO cute. And I’m with you on bigger meals; even though I eat smaller meals on occasion and graze all day now and then, I still prefer and enjoy LARGE meals way more.
I got Lightroom 3 last night! *squee*
Carla says
I love the pretty spoon, where did you get it… Anthropologies?
KathEats says
Grandma!
Maryann (The Balanced Bean) says
Thats so funny, I am typically an all or nothing person except for with my meals! I have to have my small meals throughout the day, because I get hungry every two hours, even after a huge meal!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat says
That granola looks great! Another one with ENORMOUS clumps is Nature’s Path Love Crunch – it’s got dark chocolate, strawberries and raspberries too!
Abby says
100% whole wheat cranberry orange bread?! lol! This girl is sold! 🙂
Estela @ Weekly Bite says
That bread looks AMAZING!!!
Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope says
Couldn’t agree with you more. Life has to come first, and food just needs to fit in the best way possible! Plus, you got to enjoy two fabulous breakfasts this morning! 🙂
Morgan @ moments of mmm says
Is the cranberry-orange bread a staple at all GH’s or is a store by store choice? I want some now!
KathEats says
A lot of the stores make it, but not all. Put in a special request!
Mama Pea says
We swear by second breakfasts. I think they should be mandatory.
Namaste Gurl says
I ran this morning, too! Must’ve been us bloggers thinkin’ alike 🙂
I usually just take off when I run in the morning, I can’t wait! And running on a full stomach doesn’t sit so well…
Melissa says
I prefer to run on an empty stomach–otherwise, there’s no telling what might go on during the run 🙁
Kudos to you on reducing the coffee. I just can’t (won’t?) do it!
Amanda says
mmmm 🙂 both of your breakfasts have me drooling! hehe!
Natalia - a side of simple says
This post reminded me of the scene in LOTR when Merry and Pippin realize that Aragorn probably doesn’t follow their routine of second-breakfast, elevenses, lunch, afternoon tea, etc. 🙂
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey says
I’m a eat 6 meals a day kind of girl because I like to graze all day. I usually eat a decent sized bowl of oats for breakfast, but then always want a snack 3-4 hours later!
Kristi @ Hiding in Honduras says
Love that big bubble shaped spoon!
Stacey says
I love big clumps in granola, i will purposely pick em out. What does kefir taste like? i have seen it at the store but never purchased it. You have strong tastebuds how would you describe it?
Linda says
Kefir tastes like sour cream aka Greek yogurt.
KathEats says
It’s like yogurt – similar to plain yogurt or the drinkable yogurts
Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife says
kefir is AWESOME. My mom has changed us all 🙂
Sheila says
Have you ever tried raw milk qephor (kefir)? At first I was a little nervous about raw milk, but it really tastes great and is good for immunity and those that have leaky gut (or even lactose intolerant) because of the enzymes. This is the company I get it from at the farmers market here in CA: http://organicpastures.com/products_qephor.html We also get butter and beef from them sometimes as well.
Cindy says
Those granola clumps look amazing!
Meg says
That granola looks fantastic…and the way you described it…wow. I want some…now. Haha 🙂
Enjoy your day, Kath!
Khushboo says
I don’t like splitting my breakfasts up! It’s my favourite meal of the day and I rather enjoy it fully than in parts. This eating before v after workout is a dilemma which I hv occasionally! I tend to eat half a banana w pb and workout immediately (doesn’t take mch digestion) and them come home and eat a proper, hearty brekkie which always tastes extra delicious! Endorphins+oats=a great start to my day!
Mary @ Bites and Bliss says
Umm, two breakfasts are wayyyy better than one!
Katelyn @ Chef Katelyn says
Is that wheatgrass?! Whatever it is, it is beautiful! Slash orange-cranberry is one of my favorite combinations of all time, I love the sweetness with slight tartness! So fresh:)
Stacey (The Home-Cooked Vegan) says
Eating two breakfasts is fun! I love having a big “snack” before a run and then coming back for the real deal 🙂 Those breads sound like they are worth coming back to!
Hope you have a productive day 😀
Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen) says
Whether I eat small meals or big meals I always make them special. I like them to all be events. The two breakfasts look perfectly delicious! I hope you’re having a great day Kath!
[email protected] says
haha interesting about your eating philosophy and ‘go big or go home’ 😛 I can’t just eat 3 meals though! I get shaky and weird haha. So I have to regulate how I eat often–you don’t get funky withdrawals? 🙂
Melomeals: Vegan for $3.33 a Day says
I’m the same way.. I’d rather have 3 meals than 6 smaller ones.. I tried that several months ago and it just left me feeling like I was snacking all day.. and never really satisfied, even though I was never physically hungry
Jessica @ The Process of Healing says
I’m so jealous of your bread.. not even joking 🙂
Kate (What Kate is Cooking) says
I had two breakfasts too! Sometimes one just doesn’t cut it 🙂
Jennifer (The Gourmetour) says
Kath,
Your snack/2nd breakfast looks DIVINE. Yum!
The number one thing to remember is to eat when you’re hungry. It doesn’t matter if you just had breakfast and hour and a half ago, if you’re hungry your body’s telling you something, so eat!
You always set a great example!
Allie says
Mmm a split up breakfast sounds pretty yummy 🙂 Hope you have a good day
Graze With Me says
I love those glass coffee cups – we had a couple that came with our french press and being the klutz that I am, I found a way to load them in the dishwasher that made them EXPLODE! (Pinched between two other mugs/glasses.) If you wash them in a dishwasher be sure to give them plenty of room. 🙁 I miss mine.
KathEats says
Yikes! I’ve put them in the dishwasher before but explosions scare me!
Kiran @ KiranTarun.com says
Frozen home cooked meals, my favorite way to unwind after a hectic day!
Allison @ Happy Tales says
I’m all about listening to my body when i’m trying to figure out when to fit in a run in…(ie before a big breakfast or after a smaller one…) Typically I like to do it before so that I can just relax afterwards!
Lisa (bakebikeblog) says
oh yummo indeed!
Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin says
I could never eat 6 smaller meals a day either. I would feel so unsatisfied!
Averie (LoveVeggiesAndYoga) says
You have an action packed day! By now, east coast time, it’s probably done. Hope everything went off without a hitch!
🙂
SillySavage says
This is such a great blog. After seeing all these beautiful photos of your food and cute linens I’m actually going to start using some of my cloth napkins and table linens that I was storing because the were “too pretty.” Thanks.
Emma (Namaste Everyday) says
i like half and half breakfasts, you get to engage in the fun twice!
Emily @ Savory and Savage says
That granola looks great – I love granola with big chunks.
Alaina says
Loving the clumpy granola!
And I’m big into splitting up breakfast too. It’s my favorite meal of the day. 🙂
Hannah says
Ooh, secret granola technique! I want to ask what it is, but I guess there’s a reason you call it secret…
UC says
If you will reconsider the urinal then I’ll find a UVA student to be a bathroom attendant. They could also pass out mouthwash and hand out paper towels. You’d be the first GHB with an attendant.
KathEats says
You know, that sounds like JUST the kind of job I had in mind for Karen!!
stephanie says
I liked your breakfast yesterday, bread with granola topping. I would have never thought of such a combo, but will for sure try it now!! Yum and thanks for sharing!!! Did I hear you say cutting down on coffee?
Katie G. says
Kath, all of the bread looks amazing! I wouldn’t be able to control myself around all those delicious fresh loaves! I could eat bread all day, every day! Cranberry Orange…drool!
AdiFey says
I second Heather’s comment! Colorado would LOVE some bread!! :))
Good Decision. I have to follow my meal plan, which means I have to have breakfast (it’s a big one) within an hour of waking. BUT I usually work out in the afternoons so I don’t have that problem too often, thank goodness. I can’t work out on an empty stomach either…its a complete waste of time
Good luck on cutting back on coffee! I had to do that about a month ago, super tough! I don’t know if you drink yerba matte at all but it really helped me