Behold the glory..

of pumpkin oatmeal. Words do not exist that describe pumpkin butter.

(Yes it has sugar. I was devastated when I read the list at the store. But then I read the nutrition information. 3 grams per 2 Tablespoons. That won’t be a problem.) And next to the pumpkin butter is the fabulous pumpkin granola. This stuff is good because it’s in bigger pieces so it’s perfect to go in oatmeal. If you have texture issues with oatmeal (who doesn’t???), then granola is my answer.

Look at that! It tastes like pumpkin pie. And even with 3 grams of sugar, it’s not too sweet.

This morning’s creation:

oatmeal made with 1/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of skim milk
pumpkin butter
pumpkin granola
flax seed
bee pollen.

A word about the bee pollen. If you’ve never used it, do your research. For people who are allergic to bees, use caution. For people who have severe allergic reactions of any kind, use EXTREME caution. Many myths have been proven and disproven about bee pollen and products like Royal Jelly. All I know is since I’ve been using it, I have not had one sinus infection (allergy related infections). Every September since 1996, I’ve had serious sinus infections that stay with me off and on until March or April. This year, I haven’t been to the doctor once. I’ve had some sinus pressure and sniffles, but nothing like what I have dealt with for years. Is bee pollen the ONLY thing I’ve changed in my diet in the past year?? HEAVENS NO! But I’m sticking with a few of my stand by ingredients like flax, bee pollen, and wheat grass. The other two are effective for energy, muscle recovery, and regularity. Stepping off my dietary soapbox now 😀

What better way to enjoy my pumpkin oatmeal than outside in the fall leaves enjoying a cup of pumpkin spice coffee with honey and watching our carved pumpkin? (No, it’s not doing anything, but it goes with the theme of the morning, so just go along with it..)

This morning, I’m participating in CrossFit’s Barbells for Boobs to benefit breast cancer research. I had my own scare with breast cancer last year. I went into surgery not knowing what I would hear or see when I woke up. As soon as I was able to open my eyes, the kind nurse told me “wake up, honey, ….it’s not cancer!” I was fortunate in that I had to worry and fret for one week from time of first drs. appt. to surgery. But during that week, I made my plans for if it was cancer. Unfortunately, millions of women..younger than me at 34, have to face that diagnosis. October is breast cancer awareness month. For many people, it’s a year-long awareness. Please get involved this month! October is almost over, but I bet many people have already donated, watched, or participated in something to raise more money for research.

This morning we will be doing the Amazing Grace Workout. It’s 30 clean and jerks (heavy lifting) for time. That’s a LOT of lifting. After, I’ll need some quick nutrition for sugar and muscle recovery.

My favorite..Mocha shake.