I’m participating in the Run for your Lives Zombie 5k in October and started training for it on Sunday. I thought I was going to die on Sunday after my 2 1/2 mile walk/run. This body isn’t familiar with the word exercise, and it totally took a beating on Sunday. My face was red, I was out of breath, my feet and legs were throbbing, and I felt a little nauseous. Not good. Not good at all. My brain was reprimanding me, “Why did you stop exercising? Look what it has caused you.” Stupid brain. I know! Hush, now!

After 3 days of running, I’m finally getting back into my groove. My running intervals are beginning to out weight my walking intervals, which I’m taking that as a good sign. I purchased myself a new pair of Brooks running shoes that were custom fit to my feet at Charm City Run. They actually watch you run and custom fit you with the proper shoes. How cool! I tend to fall heavy on my heal, so they fit me with a shoe to balance the way my feet hit the ground when I run. They’re bright, verging on neon, purple. At least I won’t get run over if I’m running in the dark.

I also needed some new running clothes, so I went out and purchased some brightly colored gear. Hey, I never pass an opportunity to shop. What can I say. This gal loves to shop. I even bought myself a Camelbak so I don’t have to run with my water in my hands. It’s super annoying to have to hold a heavy water bottle while you’re trying to focus on jogging (and for me, not falling over).

Whew, those are some brightly colored shoes. I’m also hoping to run off the seven consecutive days of ice cream . I may have over indulged a little a lot!

I decided to fill by body with some nutritional meals and snacks for a change. You know, fruits, veggies, whole grains. All of the things that my body isn’t used to. I’m hoping it won’t reject my new diet. Fingers crossed!

I know what you’re thinking, “But Jennie, what about all of the baked goods and yummies?” Don’t worry, I’m still going to be bringing you things like donuts and cupcakes. I would never be so cruel as to cut you off cold turkey. That’s just mean. Just because I’m running doesn’t mean I’m not going indulge in a piece of cake. Besides, isn’t there a rule that states exercising cancels out eating a piece of cake? You know, even Steven. The rule of physics or something? Either way, I like that rule, and I’m sticking with it. Point is, there will still be cake! Does that make you feel a wee bit better?

Today I made you a recipe inspired by Jessica at A Kitchen Addiction. She made a creamy salsa pasta that I tweaked to my taste. It’s delicious and good for you.

I used a double roasted salsa from Trader Joe’s in this dish. It added a nice smokey flavor to the pasta. If you don’t have a Trader Joe’s in your area, feel free to use a fire roasted salsa.

I added lots of fresh veggies. The red pepper and corn added a touch of sweetness, while the jalapeño and green pepper added some spice.

I also added big chunks of cubed chicken breasts to the pasta. Here’s a handy little kitchen tip for the busy cook. Place a few chicken breasts in a crock pot and add a 1/2 cup of chicken stock, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 5 hours. Cool the chicken. Either shred or cube the breasts. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. It speeds up the meal making process and creates an extremely tender piece of chicken.

This dish is full of healthy veggies, tender pieces of chicken, gooey cheddar cheese, and protein packed black beans. If you love a spicy dish, you’re going to love this meal.

Since this dish is healthy, I indulged in two helpings.