Green Vanilla Protein Balls

I am always inspired by the great healthy recipes I stumble across. This recipe has been adapted from the #movenourishbelieve blog from Lorna Jane. I love to have a look into my pantry and figuring out what I have can be whipped up into a treat for the week, from what other recipes I see or know. 

Green Vanilla Protein Balls 

1 cup almond meal (make your own in the food processor if you choose)

1 lg scoop of Vanilla protein powder

1/2 cup shredded coconut

2 tbs of Chia seeds

1 tbs of Spirulina (where the green comes from - if you're scared - omit, but it doesn't affect the flavour)

1 tsp of Vanilla extract (not essence)

2 tbs of peanut (or other nut) butter or spread (Mayver's peanut and coconut is my fav)

2 tbs of agave syrup

3 tbs of almond milk

Extra - 4 tbs of sesame seeds

Mix all ingredients except for the essence seeds. 

If the mix is too dry, add a little more almond milk. If too wet, add a few more chia seeds. 

Roll into balls and coat in sesame seeds. Put in the fridge for a minimum of two hours and enjoy. Best stored in the fridge. 

The great thing about these kinds of recipes is you can adapt it to what you have in the pantry. Choose a different flavour protein powder, use a alternative liquid sweetener, the original recipe used tahini instead of nut butter - it is your choice, combined with a little trial and error. 

I have done some calculations and these balls have approximately 70 calories per serve, packed with protein, fibre and omega 3. For me, a couple of these with a cup of tea are the perfect mid-morning hunger buster. 

Megan x

Fitness Motivation

At this time of year I always find keeping my fitness at its peak a little tough.The days are shorter, colder and we'd all rather sits inside beside the heater. I am not a gym member or attend group fitness classes (#lifeisagym) so I am in charge of my own motivation and commitments, so here are some of my tips to get you started or to stay focused and achieving your goals. 

Couch to 5k - This is great app to get you started. If you have never really run before it is perfect, as it starts you off walking and running in intervals. Within 8 weeks, 3 times per week, for 30 minutes you will be running 5km in one hit. My friend is currently working through this app and we will be completing Run Melbourne's 5km run as her first fun run. I am so excited and proud of her! 

150km before Christmas -  Last Christmas I was FLAT out at work (as I am every year - I'm a retail bunny). I was feeling really lazy (coming off running the half marathon in October and hadn't really run since then). I wanted to make a commitment to myself to stay fit during what is my busiest time of the year. It was five weeks to Christmas Day so I made the promise to complete 150km before Christmas. I gave myself a few rules: all running counted and any walk over 2km. I tallied each activity and tracked on average if I was in front or behind. I did run a bit behind at stages, but when I had the time I would run extra kilometres, or work in extra k's where I wouldn't normally (run or walk home from work). I ran my last 6km on Christmas Day to get me over the line. I actually felt this got me through the month - feeling fitter gave me more energy to get through some really tiring days, and all the extra exercise reduced my guilts on Christmas Day enjoying a bit of extra turkey and dessert. Set yourself a realistic but challenging goal to keep yourself moving,

30 challenge apps - I am currently working through three concurrently. Abs, push-ups and squats. Great motivators to keep you moving when stuck inside. Twenty days in I am starting to see results. Like with Couch to 5k it starts off easier and builds your strength and stamina to increase reps as you go. 

Sign up for a fun run - whether it be your first or your 21st fun run, by making the commitment to complete a run gets you into training mode. Most fun runs will also post training programs it organising run groups to help you towards your goal. It's not a race but I always want to complete a good time, and there's nothing more satisfying than posting about your best time. Run Melbourne is only one month away and the Melbourne is approaching in October, with other smaller runs scheduled between now and then.

Social media - There are so much inspiration and motivation out there in the world. You just have to follow the right people! I am following so many people on Instagram who inspire and keep me moving. Even posting things myself gives me a buck up to practice what I preach. Pinterest, Facebook and Tumblr are filled with pics and stories to get you thinking "If they can do it do so can I ...". 

So this are my tips to keep me moving....

But if you're looking for a little extra encouragement tag me in your fitness Instagram fitness posts @meganadores and hashtag #meganadoresfitspo I'll give you some extra fitness love. Nothing like some extra encouragement to keep you in line to achieve your goals. 

Megan x

Smoothies

If you follow me on Instagram you'll know I'm a smoothie addict. I will have at least one per day - I find they are a quick way to get plenty of vitamins and nutrients in one hit. And taste amazing! 

It's all trial and error and working with the ingredients you want... 

Bases 

Milks - regular, soy, almond (my fav), rice

Acai tea (chilled)

Coconut water

Yoghurt (watch for sugar/fat content)

Flavours

ANYTHING 

Fruits - strawberries, raspberries, banana, apple, pear, blueberries watermelon, mango, melon, pineapple

Vegetables - spinach, kale, lettuce, celery, carrot, beetroot, cucumber

Other - coffee, cacao, protein/whey powders, 

Extra flavour

Agave

Dates

Stevia

Vanilla paste (not essence) 

Nutrition 

Chia

Maca

Acai

Spuralina

Nuts (raw - almonds, cashews, macadamia, 

When playing around with your own creations ask first:

Where is the flavour coming from? (some things with dominate the taste others will simply blend with no effect)? 

Will all the ingrediates mix well?

Is it good for you? (Try not to load up on cheeky stuff like protein powder and cacao and use some fruit and added supliments). 

Just some of my favourite combo's:

Cacao/banana/almond milk

Mango yoghurt ice coconut flakes 

Espresso date almond milk

Watermelon ice acai tea

Berry spinach coconut water chia (breakfast staple)

Enjoy! 

Megan x

Banana pancakes with Berry Ice-cream

I have posted a version of this previously but have stepped it up on the nutritional (and taste) factor. Delicious - could be a breakfast or  dessert. 

Banana Pancakes

1/2 a banana 

1 egg white

1 tbs of chia

1/4 cup of almond milk

Soak chia seeds in almond milk (minimum 30 mins). Whisk egg white until it is fluffy. Mix mashed banana and chia/milk into egg white. 

Heat canola oil spray or coconut oil in a pan. Mix will make 3-4 pancakes. Flip once pancake is firm (2-3 minutes). 

Berry ice cream

1/2 cup of frozen berries 

2 tbs of organic yoghurt 

Dash of almond milk

(Extra flavouring optional - vanilla paste/ stevia/ agave) 

Place all ingredients into a food processor. Done! If it's a bit soft/runny pop it into the freezer for 10-20 minutes. 

I serve mine with a sprinkle of raw nuts and seeds for some extra taste and texture.

Enjoy!

Megan x

Sweet Potato Chips with Guacamole

Another favourite healthy recipe. A great snack or side dish, these sweet potato chips are delicious and so easy. I'm a bit of a no fuss kind of cook, so if there are too many steps I can't be bothered. But I have made these most nights lately, and I don't feel guilty given all the good vitamins (Vitamin B6, C, D, beta-cerotene, magnesium) and slow release energy.  

1 Sweet potato - cut into 5cm chips (leave the skin on)

2 tsp of chilli powder (you can use a spice of your liking ie paprika, garlic or coriander seeds) 

Canola oil spray 

Microwave or steam the sweet potato to start the cooking process (I microwave in a small amount of water for 2 minutes)

Drain and pat dry. Spread chips onto a baking tray to create one single layer. Give chips a very light spray of oil and sprinkle with half of the seasoning. 

Grill or fan grill (depending on you oven) for about 5-10 minutes or until they start to brown and crisp up. Remove from the oven turn all the chips give another light spray and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning. Grill for another 5 minutes. 

Serve with guacamole (avocado, natural yoghurt, lemon juice and chilli powder)

Enjoy!

Megan x

#meganadores

Lash Envy - eyelash extensions

One of my favourite indulgences (and addictions) is getting my eyelash extensions on a regular (maybe too regular). I started getting my lashes done when Angela, Lash Envy's founder, was running her salon from home. Since then they have expanded to a great salon in Oakleigh, (south east Melbourne) and many skillful technicians. The fact that lashes is all they do, might be a little boring and monotonous for them, but for their clients it means perfectly preened lashes applied with precision. All the staff are highly trained and are passionate about their clients getting the most from their lashes (always giving tips/advice/dos and don'ts). 

I have lately been getting a "natural" set refill, but opted for a fuller more glamorous look in a "full" set. Lash Envy also do "glamour" set for a look with plenty of wow and impact. I never have to wear mascara which is great because I'm pretty low-fuss when it comes to make-up, and they are put on so well people actually ask if they are real!  I can imagine what I would look like without them and don't really want to. I love them! 

If you're thinking of getting your eyelashes done, whether for a one off special occasion or just to give your current look a lift you have to book in with Lash Envy. If Lash Envy isn't within your reach, before you choose a salon do your research. Do they specialise in lash extensions? Are they self taught or have they done any specialised training? Do they have any pics of their work? Everyone's lashes (as I was educated by my technician Kryshina - who is a new and amazing member of the team) will wear and grow differently but if they are being applied well you're already a step ahead of the rest. 

Photo courtesy of Lash Envy Facebook page

Be careful! It's highly addictive.

Check out Lash Envy's Facebook page for more details and info or their website. 

Enjoy! 

Megan x 

#meganadores

Post cleanse recipe - Broccolini Mushroom Zucchini Stir fry

Broccolini, Mushroom and Zucchini Stir Fry

1/2 bunch Broccolini 

4-5 button mushrooms

1/2 zucchini (cut it length ways)

1 tsp of terryaki sauce (could be soy, hoisin or oyster if you prefer)

4-5 drops of sesame oil

Cut the broccolini and mushroom into thirds. 

Using a peeler, peel strips/ribbons of zucchini, including the skin, but not using the centre seeded part. 

With some paper towel squeeze the excess moisture from the zucchini (will hold together and cook better).
Mix terryaki with sesame and a tablespoon of water. 

Heat the wok and spray with Canola spray.

Add broccolini and mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add zucchini and cook for another minute or two, them finally the sauce and cook until the vegetable are to your liking.

Easy. Healthy. Delicious!

Finished product - looks good! tastes good!

Enjoy! 

Megan x

Pressed Juice Cleanse - Part 2

So my three day juice cleanse has come to an end, and can I say I'm feeling really great! I don't feel heavy or bloated, or craving bad foods. In fact I've just eased myself today into solid foods on just fruit and vegetables and a few nuts and seeds and I was worried I wouldn't have enough energy after the cleanse, but despite a long week at work I'm feeling ready to get back into my running training tomorrow. 

I'm not sure whether it is because I have completed a few cleanses before, or whether my diet has improved over the last few months but I didn't feel many adverse side effects this time around. These can include:

Headaches

Fatigue

Cold-like symptoms

Irritability (some say I stay the same during a cleanse - lol)

Skin breakouts

These are just normal reactions to a detox - your body ridding itself of all the toxins and waste build up, but can be minimised by lots of water and sleep during your cleanse. The benefits after outweigh these lows:

Reduced cravings 

Better digestion 

More energy

Better quality of sleep

Improved mood

Clearer mind

And my favourite: the motivation to make better choices in your diet. 

Tips: 

If you're not sure you can complete a cleanse, (physically or mentally) before you make the commitment, complete a small test first. Give up something for a whole week that isn't really good for you, that you probably have a bit too much of and replace it with something good for you. IE give up coffee and/or soft drink and replace it with herbal tea and lots if water, replace the unhealthy snacks (chips, lollies or high processed foods) with fruits and vegetables

Berry Glow - Can't wait to get stuck into
one of these tomorrow

If you:

A) have the will power to stick your test

B) feel better for making the switch

you're ready to do a cleanse or detox. 

Do your research. Your cleanse should be about a healthier you, not to lose weight, putting you on track to make healthier choices and get more from the foods you eat. Of course, Pressed Juices has worked well for me, but find cleanse that will work for you.

If you can, complete a cleanse with a friend. While your experience and results may vary, the support you provide each other will be invaluable. (Safety in numbers when temptation rears it's ugly head). 

I will post some post-cleanse recipes I'll be enjoying in the coming days, so stay tuned. (Follow me on Instagram or follow my blog via email for the latest updates).

Enjoy!

Megan x

Pressed Juices Cleanse

I am just finishing day 1 of a 3 day juice cleanse from Pressed Juices. 

I have done a few juice cleanses before but this is my first full program by Pressed Juices and so far so good. I've always been a big fan of Pressed Juices but I was concerned that the Cleanse juices weren't going to be as delicious as the ones I pop into to purchase most weekends. (Berry Glow has to be my fav!) Worry not needed - they are great and I am feeling fab! You get to choose your juices within the program (4-5 choices for each of the 6 juices), which is a terrific feature you don't get with many other cleanses on the market. Greens 2 one of choices (another favourite) so, winning!!!

Basic Cleanse - Picture by www.pressedjuices.com.au

A juice cleanse really isn't designed to be a weight loss process. It is designed around cleansing your body of toxins and waste. I use it to reset - when I'm a little run down and craving all the wrong things. I find once I have finished the cleanse I feel my taste buds are renewed and I have a new found love for fresh foods and vegetables and feel motivated to keep my diet as "clean" as possible. After a cleanse your body has the ability to absorb the nutrients from food more effectively so I want to reward my body with fresh food, and everything really does taste better after you cleanse, and no longer desire all the bad foods I know I shouldn't be eating.

Smooth Balance - coconut, banana and pomegranite

  

Preparing 

Getting yourself ready for a detox is really important. Plan when to do your cleanse. I find it easier during the working week where I am busy and not distracted or tempted to stray from the program. Try to do it when you don't have any major plans, ie dinners, parties etc - these will make it impossible. If you can convince someone to cleanse with it's even better - my boss is joining me this week so we are keeping each other motivated.

Do's

Start to minimise processed foods out of your diet days leading up to the cleanse (breads, dairy, basically anything from a packet). 

Ease up coffee, black tea, soft drinks and alcohol, so your body doesn't go in shock (not literally) from craving the caffeine and sugar. Drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated beforehand.

Don'ts

Don't eat like it's your last meal before your cleanse. It will only make you ravenous for food when you begin your cleanse. Easing into the cleanse will make it less of a shock on your body, but most importantly your mind. 

Will keep you posted on my blog how the remainder of the cleanse goes...

Check out www.pressedjuices.com.au

The website is loaded with facts and tips on their juices cleanses and juices and their nutritional benefits, and why cold pressed juices are the way to go.

Or pay them a visit in Sydney, Melbourne, Geelong or Adelaide (just opened this week). 

Enjoy! 

Megan x

Jet and my final drink of the day - Refresh 1

Triangl

Triangl Underwear and Swimwear

You would have to be hiding under a rock to not have heard of Triangl but just in case I thought I'd tell you all my thoughts about it...

I was introduced to the brand by one of my favourite bloggers Nadia Bartel (Chronicles of Nadia) last year and had to see what all the fuss was about. I ordered a pair of bathers and was hooked. The neoprene is flattering and edgy. I love that you can mix up the sizing, in tops and bottoms, which makes them fit even better. Added an extra pair to my collection before my recent trip to Bali. (I think Penny Wanderlust are my favs).

Photo courtesy of Imstagram.com

As soon as the Triangl underwear site launched in January this year I was online and ordering. Both "Lucie" and "Isabel" styles are comfortable and well cut. Sexy without being lacy and uncomfortable. I'm also conscious of how my underwear wears under clothing so these are perfect, with their micro mesh fabric. 

I have found their sizing guide to be really accurate, but they also have Live Chat on the website in case you need a little extra support (no pun intended). 

Their Instagram accounts are active to say the least, with regrams of gorgeous girls from all corners of the globe fashioning Triangl. But it does give you a good indication of the fits and styles of both underwear and swimwear, not to mention a little extra motivation to look your best when your purchases arrive. 

I have just placed another order. Can't wait for it to arrive!!!

Check them out at www.triangl.com.au

Or my style inspo at http://chroniclesofnadia.com.au

Enjoy!

Megan

Photo from Australia.triangl.com

Fun Run Etiquette

The Herald Sun Citylink Run for the Kids is this Sunday 13th April. If you are participating (not competing - you're only racing yourself) you should be tapering off on training and preparing your body for the day. (Think: hydration, rest and a few extra good carbs).

If this is your first fun run here are some tips of etiquette to make the run enjoyable for you and the some 40,000 other runners. 

1. Know your limits 

Start in the designated area that fits your time and ability. It's unfair to the quicker runners and not great for your self esteem if hundreds are passing you within the first few minutes (unless you sprint pass them up the grueling Bolte Bridge). Understand that the first few kilometres or so will be crowded and hard to get your rhythm so just go with it until the crowd disperses. If you have been training and preparing in the weeks prior you will catch the time up later.

2. Be aware of those running around you 

If you are running with a group try not side by side, blocking the road 5 people wide (not cool) rather in a file or group that will allow people to pass especially in narrow areas of the course. Sometimes a polite "passing" will help if you have to negotiate runners. R4TK organisers recommend not listening to music during the run - so you have more awareness around you. 

3. Let prams pass

I used to hate pushers of prams but I quickly learnt that most are extremely fit (and strong to be pushing an extra 10kgs along the way) and probably faster than you, so best you just let them through.

4. Keep moving though drink stations

Most people like to keep moving and we are all thirsty so move to the side or keep moving. Many go to the start of the drink station that is usually 10 to 15 meters long, but I will go towards the end where volunteers are ready to assist in your hydration. There's plenty for everyone!

5. Enjoy yourself!

Take it all in and be proud of what you are doing. Everyone has their own goal

Don't stress that you may lose some time  through the start or in the crowded areas, as you will most certainly gain it back through the extra excitement and adrenaline of such a great event.

Good luck to all those running on Sunday! Let me know if you have any other great running etiquette tips.

Enjoy!

Megan x 

Chocolate Almond Milk Smoothie Recipe

Chocolate almond milk smoothie 

My favourite recipe when the chocolate cravings get too much to handle. (Think crazy mad woman when they get really bad ) Full of protein and antioxidants and low on calories... Win-win-win.

250ml unsweetened almond milk

1tsp of raw organic cacao powder

1tbl of chia seeds

1tbl of coconut flakes

4-5 dates 

1 cup of ice

Throw it all in a blender and you're done!

Delicious! Perfect at settling those afternoon binges. Inspired by the extremely delicious Chocolate Almond Mylk creation by Pressed Juices (they do great work!) 

http://www.pressedjuices.com.au

Enjoy!

Megan x

Giving blood...

 Australian Red Cross Blood Service 

I donated blood yesterday, and I must say I'm feeling pretty good! A sense of satisfaction coupled with no side effects (I felt a little faint last time I donated).

#selfie while donating 

The first time I donated it was a bit of a lengthy process (questionnaire, health check, explaining the process) but the visits after the first one are easy and quite quick. I was all done and enjoying some free but less than healthy snacks within 30 minutes. Had to keep my energy and fluids up.

If you are eligible to donate I really urge you to. When you think about it all you are donating is your time (and a bit of courage if needles and blood freak you out),. It doesn't hurt (I promise) and the staff are always lovely, your well being is their primary concern and are so appreciative for what you are doing. Go online today to see if and when you can visit a donor centre.

http://www.donateblood.com.au/

You receive an donor card and adorable thank you letter after you donation. So cute!

Enjoy!
Megan x

Running

This week I adore....
Running

Run for the Kids #r4tk #r4tk2014 is fast approaching on April 13th.

I have been running for few years now. I started running to step my fitness up a notch. I always played sport and exercised growing up, but was never a born athlete so it was never a natural ability I posses. To say I adore running is a stretch, but the time I get to zone out with my thoughts, listen to music and the way I feel afterwards (aside from the aches and pains) makes it my regular past time.

“We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon.” – Emil Zatopek

My goal us to this year run a marathon. There... I said. It's out in the open so now I guess I have to do it now. Note I'm not starting from scratch, (crazy, but not that crazy) I have run two half marathons before. So, as my first warm up for the year, to get fun-run fit, I will be running the Run for the Kids - 15km run that raises funds for the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. This is probably my favourite run - the course runs through the Domain Tunnel and over the Bolte Bridge and around the CBD. This route is a real novelty, the only time these roads are closed for foot traffic only and you see Melbourne from new perspectives. 

15km course map

Steve Moneghetti, Australian marathon runner and R4TK ambassador sets a training plan for the 5km and 15km courses for those starting from scratch or getting back into running, that is published weekly in the Herald-Sun. In one of his first weekly training plans he wrote of how you are either walking or running and doesn't recognise jogging, as no matter how fast or slow you are going it is still running. I love this! It is an excellent reminder for all those giving it a go, to not be do hard on yourselves and that running is not easy and you should be proud of the effort you put in. I know I always am. We all have our own goals in running and I've always believed you are never really racing anyone but yourself.

Selfie after R4TK12 with Steve Moneghetti

“It’s very hard in the beginning to understand that the whole idea is not to beat the other runners. Eventually you learn that the competition is against the little voice inside you that wants you to quit.” – George Sheehan

My advise get out and do it! You don't have to run a marathon tomorrow or ever for that matter. It's not a race, so don't be disheartened by not running as fast or as far as others because you are better for it than yesterday and doing more than those who do not run at all... 

If you have any tips or need some motivation to get going drop me a line! 

http://www.runforthekids.com.au/
http://www.mapmyrun.com/

Enjoy!

Megan x

“Don’t bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. 
Try to be better than yourself.” -William Faulkner

Instapic after today's 15km run

Sunday Breakfast

This week I adore...
Sunday breakfast

Feeling a bit flat at the moment and it's these times when I fall back into bad habits.

I saw on Facebook (I think) where someone had made flourless banana pancakes (so I am not claiming this recipe as my own), though I didn't actually look at the finer details, and have decided to wing it.  Thought these would be a great way to convince myself I was having a cheat breakfast but without the guilt. 

Mix together:

1 banana 

1 egg

1 tsp of chia (my addition)

In a large frypan, spray with canola spray spoon batter into pan. Flip once cooked on each side when golden brown. 

I have served mine with a few raspberries and a drizzle of light agave nectar.

Berries balance the sweetness of the banana. For some extra crunch I will next time sprinkle some crushed almonds.

I have calculated this to be about 300 calories with the Canola spray, syrup and berries. When you compare that to a serving of pancakes with maple syrup to be about 600 calories (and this is without the protein and with the carbs) I know which one I will opt for.

The great thing about this was it was SO easy. It was mixed and cooked in less than 10 minutes! 

Enjoy! 

Megan x

Healthy Juices

This week I adore

Fresh and healthy juices

I have tried a few fresh juice detoxes in last couple of years. I find they they are a terrific way to get me back on track if my diet has gone a little wayward. Pressed juices are becoming more readily available in Melbourne. I popped into Pressed Juices on High st Armadale to try a few of their juices... Delicious! Berry Glow 1 & 2 are amazing (as warned in store I was I for a real treat - did not disappoint) and I was able to try before I buy with the Chocolate Almond Mylk and as soon as I tasted it, it was in the shopping bag. (Think dairy-free, healthy yet tasty version of a chocolate Big M). 

I miss the the freshness and getting all those nutrients in one drink once I've finished the juices, so since my last detox and have pulled out the blender and taken to making my own.

My favourite recipe right now...

2 handfuls of spinach 
1/2 cup of watermelon
100ml of SkinnyMeTea Acai tea (brewed and chilled - drink the rest later!) 
or substitute this with 100ml of pressed apple juice 
1/4 cup of raspberries or strawberries
1 tablespoon of chia
1/2 cup of ice

Optional
Mint leaves, lemon juice 


After my warm lemon water first thing in the morning I love this recipe, as I can enjoy it on my way to work or at my desk a little while later. While the weather is still warm, a little extra ice added once it has been blended keeps it cold and makes it extra refreshing.

I have tried a few fruit and vegetable combinations blending, rather than using a juicer, to keep in all the nutrients and fibre in the juice, and find it fills me up for longer. Spinach blends so well, so it packs in so much goodness without ruining the flavour or making it a chore to drink. You could interchange you favourite fruits but keep in a leafy option (kale is also soooooo good for you) and chia (rich in Omega 3 and high in protein and fibre).

If you need some extra inspiration, follow A Million Miles's on Instagram - she posts fantastic pics of her fresh creations and the recipes she has on her blog are fantastic #motivating #delicious



View A Million Miles blog

Visit Pressed Juices

Visit Skinny Me Tea






Enjoy!

Megan x

Flemington Racecourse

This week I adore...

Flemington Racecourse 

Today we attended the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes Day at Flemington Racecourse. It was a gift to my mum and her partner for Christmas - a four course lunch (Peter Rowland always do a fantastic job) in the Atrium in the Members stand with a great view of the track and races. Mum and Ray had a great day on the punt, my husband Robbie finished about even and I, well I stay away from the betting element (I hate losing!) We were there for the entire nine race card, but I love when a day at Flemington doesn't feel long as you are enjoying the racing, the food and surrounding to care about the time. Evidence of a lovely day.

Robbie is a Victoria Racing Club member so he is there for every meeting (literally - he hasn't missed a meeting in 4 years). I am there for most of those and I adore getting dressed up and having a fun day out. Flemington is such a great venue, and the variety in facilities and events the VRC put on for their 30,000 strong membership keep us coming back (cocktail parties, high teas and young members events, and of course the Spring Carnival).

Spring Carnival is an AMAZING time at Flemington, (my favourite time of year, better than Christmas) but the Autumn carnival is a terrific and underrated event on the Melbourne calendar. The racing is of a high quality featuring the Black Caviar Lighting Stakes day, Australia Guineas and Super Saturday at Flemington. But there is around a third of the crowds there, and lots of great activities on around the course. Think the fun, good weather and great racing without the queues to get drinks and to go to the bathroom. Winning!

This place has another special meaning... Robbie and I were married here over 5 years ago. Such a fantastic wedding venue! We had so many great photo opportunities around the course and convenience of our guests only having to attend one venue - a really important factor to us. This made Flemington a really easy choice for us. 

We were married in the Champagne Bar (was supposed to be the Parade ring - but a 16 degree day with wind and rain were not conducive of an outdoor wedding). Typical Melbourne in November. The reception followed in the Members Dining room, it has such a romantic feel with the blue velvet drapes and wood panel detailing, it is rich in history and romance. A wonderful day, we are lucky enough to be reminded of it every time we return.

I'm sure I will post on another great race day soon...

Visit Flemington Racecourse

Visit Victoria Racing Club

Enjoy!

Megan x

Golf

This week I adore...

Golf

"We learn so many things from golf—how to suffer, for instance." Bruce Lansky

Golf is a sport that can drive you insane or make you feel on top of the world. In the short time I've been playing, I too have developed my intense love-hate relationship with her.

It's a simple concept but difficult to master. Get the small ball into the hole in the fewest shots possible. Easy right?!? Wrong. That's not to say it isn't fun. As well, as the opportunity to spend four hours in the fresh air walking in beautiful surroundings, it can be a relaxing day (in between fits of rage after you have muffed a shot or lost your ball).

It has been said that the origins of its name came from:

Gentlemen

Only

Ladies

Forbidden

Clearly, I have chosen to not take heed from this chauvinistic acronym.

It is also a fantastic spectator sport. I've had the opportunity to watch one of the world's greatest Golfers, Adam Scott a few times, most recently in the World Cup at Royal Melbourne. His game is simple, yet powerful and inspiring to watch. And it doesn't hurt either that he is quite pleasing on the eye!

A few years ago, I swore that in my thirties I would give up netball and take up golf. Robbie kindly bought me a set of golf clubs and we started playing a few rounds here and there.

But then a friend introduced us to a social golfing group - UGLi - that plays public courses all over Melbourne (and beyond). Strange name I know, and while you could be correct in assuming it reflects out standard of golf at times it does have a deeper meaning - Unprofessional Golfers League incorporated.  UGLi golf is in its seventh season and Robbie and I have been playing golf with this fun bunch for about two years. It is relaxed and not (too) competitive and great thing about this group is that we all play at different standards but are able to play together harmoniously.

The green fees are usually a couple of extra dollars than what the course it charging - this is to cover the prizes up for grabs on the day, as well as the convenience of having your groups, cards and bookings all done for you. Well worth it.

So I've just finished a round of golf at Dorset Golf Course. A neat 18 hole course in the outer Eastern suburbs of Melbourne. While by itself it wasn't a challenging course, factor in 30+ degree heat and a wind gusts of over 50km/h you've got you're self a challenge. Took me a few holes to warm up, and certainly played a better back 9 than I did on the front. But by the end of the 18th I was really to call it a day - need to build up my golfing fitness, having not played in a little while (sounds a bit funny coming from someone who regularly goes running, but it truly is a different type of fitness).

Anyway, all are welcome at UGLi golf, whether it be one or two rounds, or sign up for the entire season fighting it out for the UGLi cup (Season Four winner was yours truly).

If your interested in playing a round with us you can find all the details on the UGLi golf Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UGLiGolf

Or email Ugligolf@gmail.com

Megan x

Trying something new

This week I adore...

Trying something new

Hi. Welcome to my new blog. Megan Adores.

Megan Adores is my new creative outlet to share with the world the things I love to do, to give my favourite things a voice for others to enjoy as well. I have enjoyed creative things all my life (craft, millinery, renovating and interior styling) but writing is something I have not tackled in a LONG time (Think: school/uni days over a decade ago), so I am really looking forward to putting pen to paper (or finger to iPad).

Some of the my favourite topics I will be writing about in the coming weeks and month are:

Golf

Races @ Flemington

Running

Online shopping

Diet and nutrition

Interior styling and renovating

Sport

...As well as some other new things I stumble across the way of my blogging journey.

So I hope you will join me, where I can share the things I adore, inspire you to try something new, or simply catch up on what I am doing in the best city in the world - Melbourne. I am not well travelled but you don't need to eat all the foods across the world to know how amazing chocolate is, right?!?

Enjoy! And feel free to drop me a line.

Megan x

The thing I adore the most...