Hello there! My name is Amanda and I am just another girl who loves to run. 😊 I started running when I was 14 years old and I do not plan on ever stopping! I am a former DI cross country runner who graduated in spring 2014 with a BA in Biology, a Master’s in Education in spring 2016, a post-baccalaureate certificate in Nutrition in spring 2020, and I graduated from my dietetic internship with Be Well Solutions in June 2021. I officially become a Registered Dietitian in December 2022!
Currently: I am 30 years old, a practicing Registered Dietitian, and living the city life with my husband + cat Bria (we adopted her in April 2020). My husband and I are high school sweethearts. We got engaged at the Chicago Marathon in October 2016 (he ran and I spectated).
Then, we got married in July 2017 at a beautiful garden venue. I am learning how to navigate life while making my marriage, health, happiness, and hobbies a priority.
Some of my passions include running, fitness, veganism, healthy food, and healthy living. I also like coffee, matcha lattes, tea, dark chocolate, concerts, reading, cooking, baking, crafts, and Netflix. Life is all about balance. 🙂
I am vegan. I went vegetarian in 2013 and then vegan in May 2018. My love of veggie foods and running/exercise inspired me to make this website! I hope, through this website, to share some of my passions and nutritional knowledge! Then, in the process inspire others to live healthier lives! 🙂
Photo Credit and Disclaimer:
The wedding and engagement photos were taken by Melissa Smith of MAK photography. The rest were taken by myself, my husband, friends, or family. You cannot use or edit photos anywhere on this website without first contacting me.
Fueling Veggie Athletes 
As a former Chicago resident, your lakeshore photos bring back memories. Also a black bean lover – one of my favorite soups to make. Thanks for the follow.
You’re welcome! 🙂
Which is your favorite black bean burger recipe? I really liked a black bean quinoa slider with sriracha sauce but always looking for something new.
Here’s a link to one of my prior posts with my favorite black bean burger recipe.
I’m not a huge fan of spicy things so if you like spicy I’d add more chili powder than what the recipe indicates. Enjoy. 🙂
I wish I liked running but it doesn’t agree with me, my hips, shins or breasts.as I feel like I have to hold them in place. I am more of a yoga person. Hot yoga in particular. Best of luck with your blog. I as m also a lover of black bean burgers.
Aww, well yoga is awesome too! I’m just starting to get into it. I’m not very flexible, but maybe one day I will be! And thank you! 🙂
I ran cross country (in high school) too! One of the toughest things you can put your body through! Gosh it was tiring
Awesome! Running is tiring, but definitely one of my favorite activities! I miss it right now. 😦 I’ve been injured for the past three months, but my physical therapist is letting me slowly go back to running in the next few weeks! 🙂
Oh my goodness we have so much in common! I ran D3 XC in college and I have a Spanish and Education degree. Wish I was good enough to run D1! Nice work girl 🙂
Oh my gosh, that’s crazy! 🙂 I love finding other runner’s blogs. Are you currently a teacher? Also, aww thanks you are too sweet!
Me too! Reading about experiences of other runners is so helpful and inspiring. I actually have a semester left of student teaching (I got to do it 3 times… elementary, middle and high school), but I just taught summer school in a school district near me. It was amazing!
Exactly! I love reading other runners blogs. 🙂 Wow that’s crazy you have to student teach three times! What grade were you with your summer school? Also are you getting a master of education degree or just finishing up your undergrad degree? I student teach just once (for high school) and I will be doing that next March!
I’m getting a BA right now. I’m doing a foreign language, so that’s why I have to do it 3 times. I was with elementary students (1st-5th). What college are you at (if you feel comfortable sharing)?
Hey I just got your email! Let’s continue our conversation there instead of here. 🙂
I wish I ran Cross Country in school. I didn’t start running until March of 2014. Better late than never!
Exactly! I’m glad you discovered running last year. Thanks for following my blog! 🙂
Thanks for the follow! I totally love your site – I’ve read loads of your posts today and find your stories really inspirational. Keep it up!
Thank you so much, that means a lot to me! I look forward to following your blog too.