For some reason, whenever I work out, the only thing I feel like eating afterwards is fruit or something light and fresh. But as you're supposed to consume protein packed foods when you work out (most of which are heavier things like meat and nuts) I've struggled with getting my protein in.

Most protein drinks contain dairy (something my body's not really okay with) and can be filled with sugar and not so amazing flavors. So I decided to make my own smoothie of protein goodness that I can sip slowly and actually stomach before or after a workout.


I started off with some cooked oatmeal and a banana.
Banana helps replenish your energy after your workout while the oatmeal helps for the rest of the day with slow releasing energy as well as fiber and protein.



I also added a teaspoon of baobab powder, and small handfuls of goji berries, and cacao nibs each. All of which are awesome superfoods. And for protein I added a good handful of walnuts. This could be subbed for hemp seeds or other sources of protein.




And then I added some frozen berries to cool the smoothie down and give the smoothie color and the nice fruity taste I usually crave.


Blend into a pretty color :P


Tada.   You'll notice I made far too much.... that's what comes from not measuring things...

This is the non-alcoholic side, there are so many local vendors and causes here. Vinçe and I almost adopted a dog from a animal reacue center, until we realizes we couldn't... x.x


An airplant magnet garden.




Some of the most beautifully well-made pottery I've seen.


I want this camper van so much...



Some of the most amazing wood and bone work I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. There were a few handmade boje guitar picks that were amazing... And also kind of odd.




Lots of local soaps and beauty products. These were probably the best smelling ones to my taste. Too often homemade/natural beauty products are limited to sort of "granny scents" such as patchouli or sandal wood (No offense). I much prefer fresher scents like lemongrass and fruity sage.


Some alpaca products, which were soooo soft. I almost bought an alpaca hair tie but then I remembered how often I lose my hair ties...


My weakness... cotton candy.



"It looks like little troll hair!" 90s kids, anyone?


Michael and Grace.


I fully intend tk buy one of these cigar box guitars sosomed, particularly the one second from the front.




Cello rocker. He was so awesome. I'm pretty sure he was singing his own original songs.



Headed to the ruins.


You could hearthe party from far away.


The Brew Fest. I'll reassure you that we all stayed very sober and we all drove home safely.



Some very impressive leather goods.


Part of  me really wants one, to satisfy my inner LOTR nerd.


The bands were really quite good, one guy played Tiny Dancer and Somebody to love. I was so happy.



I'll be back Ruins Park. Maybe for Oktoberfest o.o



I did end up getting a small haul of books. A couple of which are cookbooks. Which I might start cooking throuh on this blog! A little "Julie and Julia" style series. Let me know if that sounds good to you!

Michael Vo

It's not Summer without our annual hiking trip, although it's not quite the same without Sam here. This trip actually just started out as a little photographer's expedition, without any long walks or anything. I was just supposed to be there for the experience, and to stand or sit places in case they needed some subject matter in their foreground.


But, as it turns out, what was supposed to be a very short walk from parking lot to destination, turned into a 1 mile hike, to and from, said destination. We didn't realize the road that took us directly to the place would be closed that day.
This wouldn't normally be a problem if we weren't on a time schedule, almost literally racing the sun. We had to make sure we could get there in time for "the golden hour" to take some good photos and be back in the car before dark.







There's Willis, aka KGFX Designs, aka Bboy Katana.



As the light went, the pictures got moodier, and moodier.


In the words of my dear best friend, "wow, he even makes your derp face look nice." Something I agree with whole heartedly. I was not prepared for this picture.

On the whole, if you're up for the walk and you're into some light urban exploration, I would definitely check out Conoy Township in Bainbridge. The river walk is also great for bikers and runners. BUT make sure you do your research first! It is a Nature Preserve so check to see what's open that day and what is acceptable behavior in the area. Keep yourself and your community safe!