My friend Jesse loves PF Changs.  He has a Warrior Card and receives discounts because he dines there so often.  He’s borderline obsessed.

Last night Jared and I had the pleasure of dining with Jesse and watched him work his Changs magic.  He listened to my dinner requests, but did all of the ordering himself so he could assure that his favorite dishes made it to the table.

Pork dumplings.  I wasn’t a fan.

Mmm, lettuce wraps.  One of my favorites.

Family style meal!

I can’t eat at PF Changs very often.  Too salty for me!  I’ve been guzzling water all day.  But it’s fun once in a while, and always allows for some good leftovers!  (I had chicken and broccoli for lunch this afternoon.)

And I never turn down an opportunity to go out for dinner and drinks!

First time trying Luna’s chocolate cherry protein bar. I noticed the subtle cherry notes. But it seemed to have more of a protein taste than the cookie dough flavor. Meh. Not a huge fan.

You win some and you lose some. And the bar was free so it’s all good.

Last week I had the opportunity to tour one of FritoLay‘s factories.

I toured the Beloit, WI plan, which opened in 1973.  Beloit produces Lays, Ruffles, Cheetos, Fritos, Doritos, and Tostitos: 600 million bags per year!  The plant operates 362 days per year and uses 500,00 potatoes per day.  About 85% of those potatoes come from central Wisconsin.

My day began with a 3 hour bus ride from Chiacgo, IL to Beloit, WI.  I heard a rumor that the drive was only supposed to take an hour and a half so I’m guessing we might’ve taken a few wrong turns.  Caitlin organized a CatchPhrase tournament to pass the time.

Once we arrived at the plant and received our badges, we were lead into a conference room.  Everyone listened to a brief history of the Beloit plant.  They’ve been undergoing impressive changes to become more environmentally friendly and have even reduced their water natural gas, and electricity usage each year since 1999.

We were split into groups; I was part of Group 1 so I toured the plant before lunch.  Before beginning the tour, everyone had to don hairnets, goggles, and ear plugs.  We also had to roll a lint brush over our clothes to pick up any dust and stray hairs.  As a final precaution, we walked through a wind chamber to blow ourselves clean.

My small tour group (just 4 of us and a guide) started by learning about packaging.  We saw rolls of bags being filled with chips and sealed together.  We then saw bags being packed into boxes both by machine and by hand.  Boxes are often reused 10 times before they’re recycled!

We moved on to the Perfect Chip testing area.  There were lots of signs with photos and information about what makes the perfect chip or other Frito Lay product.  Of course there were samples on hand for us to enjoy!

We took a peek at the Frito machines and learned how Cheetos are made.

Unseasoned Cheetos.  I ate one; I don’t think I was supposed to.  It wasn’t tasty.  Bad decision.

Flavored Cheetos.  Super hot and spicy.

We enjoyed samples that were still warm from the machine.  Even though I didn’t like the flavor, it was a fun experience to eat a freshly made Cheeto.

We learned how tortilla chips are made.

Corn is mashed and mushed and formed into a paste.

Molds are used to create specific tortilla chip shapes.

It was overwhelming to learn so much information amidst the loud sounds of the machines.

Tortilla chips being formed and baked…then sent to packaging.

Fascinating!

And finally, we learned how potato chips are made.

It only takes 3 ingredients to make regular Lays potato chips.

1. Potatoes
2. Oil
3. Salt

The potatoes (most picked that morning) are washed and peeled.

And then they’re sliced into chips.

The chips are coated with oil and baked.

Finally, the chips are seasoned with a little bit of salt.  Yum!

When we finished touring the plant, I couldn’t wait to tear my hairnet off.   But it was a great tour and I learned so much fascinating info.  Definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity!

After Group 1′s tour, we were treated to lunch and a presentation by one of the dietitians that works with FritoLay.  I was going to try to cram all of my FritoLay information into one post but it’s way TOO much.

Hold on to the edge of your seat because Part II and the RD’s information will be posted later.  Hopefully sometime tomorrow afternoon! 

For me, healthy living is about appreciating the simple things in life.  Some days are too busy and I get caught up in everything I have/need/want to do.

But I appreciate keeping it simple.  So that’s exactly what I did today!

I slept late.  Then I stayed in bed some more.  Snoozing, “meditating,” talking on the phone.  Relaxing without feeling guilty about it.

I had cereal for breakfast.

Then I had PB&J for lunch.

I got a massage.

I explained why I had come in for a massage and asked for extra attention on my shoulders and my lower back/hips.  Super relaxing, but it killed when she touched my shoulders.  Seriously, SO much pain.  Must be from all of those hours spent hunched over the computer.  But it was worth it because I feel so much better now.  Plus whenever I would start to think that it would’ve been nice if she had massaged my neck a bit more or that my feet could use some TLC, the masseuse would move to the exact spot.  We were on the same wavelength.  I’ve gotta start saving my pennies so maybe I can enjoy another massage in 6 months.

Then I spent 20 minutes on the stair master.  The REAL stair master.  The one where you have to climb actual stairs!  Wow, definitely harder than it looks!  I worked up a nasty sweat, especially since I was still covered in massage oil.  When I sat down on a mat to do crunches, I left oil marks from my legs.  Good thing there were wipes nearby so I could clean up after myself.

I went shopping at the Copley Square Farmers Market.

Peaches, nectarines, corn, cucumbers, mixed greens, and flowers all found their way into my shopping bag.

Produce in tow, I stopped in the Boston Public Library to have a look around.

Even saw a wedding rehearsal in the courtyard!

Now I’m going to take the dog for a walk.

Amazing and exciting day? No.  Memorable? No.

But I lived in the moment, took care of my physical and mental health, and made myself happy.

*What do you do to boost your spirits?*

When you hit the gym for a workout or a group fitness class, you spend most of your workout watching yourself in the mirror.  Gotta make sure you’re performing each exercise properly!  It makes sense that since you’ll be staring at yourself in the exercise mirrors for at least an hour,  you’ll want to look halfway decent.

I’m not a fan of working out with a full face of makeup.  Gross, greasy, might even contribute to more zits.  But between working at a gym and exercising regularly, I like to look pretty without looking overdone.  I want to look in the mirror while lifting and watch my form without grimacing at my reflection.

I think I’ve finally perfected my Gym Time Makeup Routine!

First I apply lotion to my face and neck.  I always use a lotion with SPF because I never know how much time I’ll be spending outside and I like my skin to be protected.

Then I apply concealer under my eyes.  Especially on the days when I need to be at the gym by 8 am, I notice dark circles.  If I could get 10 hours of sleep every night, I’d be SO happy.

I also apply a product around my eyes at bedtime.  I’ve found that this makes a big difference in the morning.  Much less makeup needed because there’s less that needs to be covered.

I never ever leave the house without curling my eyelashes!

I use the tiny blush brush or my own angled brush to add some color to my cheeks.  Not too much because as soon as I start exercising, my face will turn bright red.

I finish my Gym Time Makeup by applying eye liner and mascara.

I use “Ice Black” eye liner because the dark gray color makes my eyes stand out without looking too intense.  If I wear black eye liner to the gym, I feel overdone,  like I look like I’ve done my makeup to go out for a night on the town.

A few coats of black mascara adds the finishing touch!

My makeup routine may not work for everyone, but it’s the best thing that I’ve found when I need to spend a day at the gym, both behind the front desk and on the treadmill.

(When I’m just hitting the gym to workout, I usually skip a few steps but I wanted to show you guys my overall process.)

Doing my makeup before leaving the house helps me feel more put together and puts my mind at ease: I’m ready to take on the day and also get some exercise.  And since I always use waterproof products that won’t clog my pores, it’s ok if I work up a sweat.

*Do you ever wear makeup at the gym?*

Research and Development?

Nope, Ray and David.  As in Ray Lamontagne and David Gray.

Breakfast was Oats in a Jar.  Lunch was the same wrap as yesterday.  Dinner was a bowl of cereal.  I don’t have photos for you.  I didn’t exercise today.  Sorry to disappoint!

But I do have photos from the concert!

The Bank of America Pavilion is located on Boston’s waterfront.

Heading into the BoA Pavilion.

Mmm, that’s good pizza.  Good thing he opted for a 2nd slice!

Getting beer and wine at the Tea Party Pub.

BoA Pavilion, pre-concert.  It took a while for the place to fill up.

My outfit: a blue Chambray sundress and black leather flip flops.  Cute, comfortable, and perfect for mid-August.  Only a few weeks left to wear my summer attire.

Ray Lamontagne performed first.  Two different groups of people came in late and asked me if he had played “You Are the Best Thing.”  Nope, he saved my favorite song for the last during his regular set.  Ray’s entire performance, including the encore, was awesome.  He has such a unique, raspy, and emotional voice.  I could listen to him sing all day, though he’d probably lull me to sleep after a little while.

It took a little while to switch instruments, but the crowd went crazy when David Gray took the stage.  Before tonight, I was only familiar with “Babylon.”  Now I can say I’m a true fan.  He was a great performer and combined upbeat numbers with relaxing love songs.

I’ll probably spend my morning downloading some new music from i-tunes!

It’s been a crazy summer.  While it’s been tons of fun, I’m SO glad that things are calming down and I get can back to “normal.”

And “normal” apparently includes trying to prevent Miles from peeing on my flowers.  I’m doing a good job, huh?

I need to tend to my tiny Marigolds that are finally starting to bloom.

I also need to figure out what to do about the jungle garden that I planted a few months ago.  I didn’t leave enough room between rows of vegetables and now it’s a tangled mess of vines.  And still no produce!  Oh well, at least it’s served as a vibrant green yard decoration.

Getting back into the swing of things also means turning my day dreams into realities.  Jared and I had our 1st official meeting to discuss my blog redesign.  Natalie and I will be discussing future business ventures as soon as she gets back from Jamaica.  I need to get things done now, while my motivation is high and distractions are low.

On a side note, I went to see Despicable Me last night.  Fostering my child-like, creative side.  I think it’s a must see, especially in 3-D.  I love the little yellow minions that have important roles throughout the film. So funny and really cute, weird looking creatures that sort of resemble Twinkies. 

After the movies, I rounded out my evening with a delicious cheeseburger from UBURGER.  Mmm, I love their special burger sauce.

I shared an order of fries with Jared.  Dipped in lots of ketchup!

However, I went easy on the fries.  I was too busy being in Burger Heaven!  Mmm!  ::drool::

Since we walked home from the movie theater, the burger and fries didn’t really seem like a late night indulgence.  Walking home was helpful in digesting before going to bed.

There was a bit more drooling and indulging when I passed by the Louis Vuitton store in Copley Place.  I might’ve mentioned to my someone special that I’d love a “Speedy” handbag for my birthday.  Even though I know that’s not gonna happen this year. 

Oatmeal for breakfast, the wrap in the previous post for lunch.  Nothing fancy.  I had a busy morning at work.

This afternoon I was thinking about skipping my workout but my conscience got the best of me.

What?  You don’t imagine that your conscience looks like an inquisitive Welsh Corgi?

I hit the treadmill for a 20 minute run.  I ran at 6.8 mph until the 18 minute mark.  I cranked my speed up to 8.4 mph for the final minute and a half.  I was surprised that 8.4 mph wasn’t that difficult, especially after 2 miles of running.  I could probably maintain that pace for a little bit longer if I really push myself.  Maybe next workout!

After my run, I used the foam roller.  I always make sure I stretch and get rid of my lower body tightness.  I also did a small circuit of posture exercises.  Followed by foam rolling round #2!

I was tired and got stuck taking care of household chores all evening.  I have a busy “To Do” list for the rest of the week.  It’s nice to be at home and get things accomplished!

*What’s on your list of things to do?*

Thank you Jared!

I can now blog directly from my phone. Finally! Not the latest technology… But I’ve never been one to stay on top of tech trends.

I’m SO glad I decided to attend the Healthy Living Summit.  I learned a lot of new things.  Ate a lot of delicious food!  Met some great new friends and reconnected with old ones.  Explored Chicago.  Toured the FritoLay Factory.  Tweeted.  Talked about healthy living and blogging!

Since you can find HLS recaps on 200+ food and fitness blogs, I’m just going to share some of my favorite photos from the weekend.

Ready to go running on Friday morning.

Inspiration for Kelly Clarkson’s Behind These Hazel Eyes?  I spotted this giant eyeball as we rushed from the L back to our hotel before the cocktail party.

Open Sky cocktail party at LaSalle Power Co.

Bloggers enjoying the Open Sky cocktail party.

Andrea, Sara, and me!

Cocktail party appetizers

HLS Roommates: Becky, me, and Leslie

Healthy Living Summit 2010!

I attended:

• Fueling for Fitness: Perform Well and Recover Quickly from Your Workout
• Healthy Entertaining: Learn How to be a Great Hostess While Maintaining Your Healthy Lifestyle
• The Ups and Downs of Pressing Publish: Getting Real About the Blogging Community
• Stop Staring Over Your Shoulder: How to Avoid the Self-Comparison Trap

Cutest little notebook.  If this was yours, let me know where you got it cuz I want one!

Blogger feeding frenzy!

A healthy breakfast.  I went up for seconds and devoured a bowl of oatmeal topped with brown sugar and fresh fruit.

Quaker snack break.

All of the HLS food was fantastic.  I especially loved the quinoa and the cheesecake!

Yup, we all take pictures of our food.

Blogger panel discussing the ups and downs of blogging.

Katie‘s emotional blogging story.  Starting a blog can create so many wonderful life changes.  Great way to end the conference!

I left the 2010 Healthy Living Summit with tons of swag, pages of notes, and lots of memories from an amazing weekend with my very best “blends.”

I’m NOT a morning runner.  I’m not a morning anything.  I despise waking up early.  I could curl up under my covers for hours after the sun begins to shine.  Maybe I’m lazy.  Maybe I just need lots of beauty sleep?!?

But when Leslie set her alarm so she could go running at 6:30 am and Becky planned to run at 7:15 am, I knew there was no way I could stay in bed.  Becky and I joined Angela, Caitlin,  Freya, Megan, and Jess for a 4 mile walk/run.

We followed the bike path along the water.

Nice, easy pace with lots of chatter and laughter.  Definitely my favorite way to work out!

Action shot!  Wearing my “will run for cupcakes” bondi band and sweating like a beast!

Gorgeous scenery made the run go by even faster.

I love spending time with my cousin.  It’s great that Becky and I have bonded over blogging.  As if we weren’t practically sisters before, now we have one more thing to share !

Plus running with friends always renews my passion for running.  It’s such an enjoyable activity and helps me clear my head.

I would’ve loved jog through Chicago for more miles, but we had to head back to the hotel.  Too bad cuz my legs were feeling great!  (Okkk, but when I stopped running I felt a little bit nauseous.  It was HOT out.)

Friday was a super busy day!  I went on a tour of the FritoLay Factory!  I can’t wait to write a post about everything I learned.  But right now I’m having some trouble taking the tour photos off of flickr.  If anyone has any suggestions on how to copy them, let me know.  Otherwise I’ll just wait for my computer savvy boyfriend to help me out.