January Rain

My biggest challenge in triathlon training will require me to revisit the running world. An activity that I once enjoyed, I have shifted away from high-impact exercise since injuring my knee. Returning to the sport, however, has its rewards. For instance, it has provided the opportunity to explore the city's neighborhoods on foot, presenting a new perspective.

A rare pocket of January sunshine

A brief reprieve from work on Saturday allowed me to celebrate Kyle's birthday at Katie's house in north Portland. It was a fun night of food, drinks, board games, and good company. Community!

I also recently attended a potluck hosted by Northwest VEG. Having just returned from Asia, Dr. Sharon Methvin gave a fascinating presentation about the paradoxes of religiosity, poverty and economy of animals in Nepal. The topic was eye-opening and served as timely insight into my next adventure; I will be spending the next month in Nepal to study yoga... to be continued!

Farm Spirit

A cool and rainy January brought snow to the Cascades; as expected, a cold front with forecasted snow set Portland in a panic. I stayed busy with work, taking on a new challenge at the hospital of learning how to manage total parental nutrition (TPN). TPN is a custom IV fluid used for patients with a loss of gastrointestinal function that cannot achieve adequate nutrition by oral or enteral means. This added responsibility allows me to work directly with nutritionists and dietitians, which is a step in the right direction as I gradually transition my career focus from pharmaceutical-driven healthcare to lifestyle medicine.

On the theme of looking ahead, I recently attended a yoga workshop hosted by my favorite teacher, Natasha. After practice at Yoga Pearl, our small group created vision boards based around our goals for the year ahead. It was the perfect opportunity to reflect on my priorities (i.e., self care and connectivity), and to tap into my creative side.

 

Over the weekend, Tom, Kyle and Katie joined me at Natian Brewery (#31) before heading to the Dour Fir Lounge. Chadwick Stokes is a talented musician/song writer, incredible performer and passionate human rights activist. He is a member of roots rock/reggae jam bands, State Radio and Dispatch. I have seen him perform in Pittsburgh, Boston and Chicago, and this show did not disappoint. Big fan.

Chadwick Stokes and the Pintos

Also this month, Tom and I celebrated our one-year anniversary. He surprised me with an extraordinary dining experience at Farm Spirit. This innovative establishment in southeast Portland offers a plant-based tasting menu that highlights the Cascadian bounty of the forest, farm, and field through seasonal, local dishes that emphasize the beauty of natural simplicity. I highly recommend taking a seat at the Chef's Counter for an interactive evening with a view of the action in the kitchen.

 

January Menu

Bread, Spread, Pickles & Broth

Beet Terrine, Juniper Marshmallow, Mustard & Mint

Parched Green Wheat, Jerusalem Artichoke & Radish Flowers

Romanesco, Sunflower & Seaweed

Broken Squash, Pumpkin Seed & Za’atar

Chanterelles, Mulled Wine & Roasted Quince

Warm Cheese & Crispy Crackers

Grilled Pears with Rosemary Ice

Buckwheat Cake, Pumpkin, Apple & Burnt Cardamom

Tea & Fun Candy

A New Decade

After spending a relaxing week at home, I felt rested and ready to kick off the new year. Upon reflection, I am overcome with gratitude for the many blessings that came in 2019. It was a beautiful year filled with positive memories; smelling the abundant tulips and roses, starting a new job, embarking on endless hikes and long bike rides, trying out climbing and surfing, building new and old relationships, hosting visitors, and traveling to Mt. Rainier NP, Yosemite NP and New Zealand.

Holiday lights at Portland International Raceway

I am optimistic about 2020, looking forward to several events, travels and goals. In terms of "resolutions" for the year ahead, my main aspiration is to enter the triathlon world (ultimate goal: Ironman). Pursuing rock climbing last year was a real joy, but I've decided to shift my focus in order to connect more with nature in the form of outdoor running, cycling and swimming.

The Grotto

  

In addition, I plan to make self care a priority. Living a healthy lifestyle through fitness and nutrition has been a growing passion of mine, but more recently I've come to understand that physical health is only one piece of a larger puzzle; just as important is one's mental health, which I believe, is strengthened through daily practices like mindfulness, stress/anxiety management, strong relationships, and good sleep habits. Potential ideas to maximize my health include regular massages and therapy. After all, in order to build my community and connect more deeply with the world around me, it all starts with self love.

 

Cheers to a new decade!