SFT

Granola, courtesy of Edible Education

2 Comments

A bowl of granola, yogurt & berries served in a ceramic bowl and eaten with a metal spoon.

Such basic creature comforts become an absolute treat while on the road; especially when you’re used to a breakfast of instant oats consumed from a tiny cooking pot with a plastic spoon. I present, courtesy of my lovely host Ann from Edible Education, an extra tasty granola recipe. Nourish your body and your soul!

Edible Education Granola

5 c. oatmeal

1 c. coconut flakes

1/2 c. sliced almonds

1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts

1/4 c. agave nectar or honey

1/3 c. pumpkin seeds

1/2 c. maple syrup – real

1/4 c. ground flax seed

1/2 c. warm water

1/4 c. butter, room temperature

1/2 c. dried cranberries

1/2 c. raisins

Combine all ingredients except the raisins and cranberries. Spread out on foil-covered sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until slightly browned. Add raisins and cranberries afterward and store in a sealed container.

255 Calories per 1/2 c., 12 g fat and 6 g. protein.

One small change at a time…

Leave a comment

During blustery and chilly days of bike touring sometimes you need to add a little cheer to your life. Such was the case for me while pedaling along VA hwy 360. I had stopped to refuel my snack supply at an isolated gas station and began chatting with the construction worker restriping the parking lot. The conversation began by running through the usual dialogue about where I was coming from/going to, sleeping arrangements and exclamations of surprise. Then he said, “Well, you must be pretty healthy then, huh? No drinking or smoking for you!”

I replied that I enjoyed an occasional adult beverage but didn’t smoke at all, ever. “My lungs are what keep me pedaling. I have to take care of my body.”

After a contemplative pause my new acquaintance looked up and said, “You know, usually I would have a cigarette right about now. But today? I’m not going to.”

I left him working diligently in that parking lot, perhaps contemplating quitting smoking and perhaps not. Either way, for at least that day there was one less lit cigarette in the world. This encounter was the exact motivation that I needed to put my head down and keep the pedals turning into the unrelenting headwind. Meeting this man reminded me that you never know who you will come across along the road or in life. Act positively, react with kindness and treat everyone with respect. Perhaps you will just change someone’s life.

Chain links for my ears

1 Comment

Style isn’t a major, or even a minor, concern while on a bike tour. I only have 2 wardrobe options and I don’t bring along girlie luxuries such as makeup, hair products or even a full-size towel. (Tell this to most 8th grade girls and watch their minds be blown.)

However one silly item has remained a constant – whether riding through a downpour, presenting to students or relaxing around a campfire: Earrings. After a day of riding when you’re exhausted, sweaty and probably pretty stinky, a nice pair of earrings is a cheerful addition to your demeanor.

Well, I received a very special new pair from Pedal Chic in Greenville, SC. These earrings are noteworthy not only because they are beautiful but also because they were hand-crafted by Ron, the shop’s mechanic. It turns out that the unassuming man who tuned up my bike and replaced the chain is also capable of artfully designing bike-related jewelry!

Chain links for my ears!

If you happen to find yourself in Greenville, please do stop by Pedal Chic and meet their wonderful and inspiring crew.