Life can feel so crazy sometimes! I learned two things from parents that sustain me and allow me to slow down and take time. A love for food and gathering people together around the table and a passion for the outdoors. Both of these things make me who I am and provide me with a chance to be mindful and feel peace in my heart.
Running still plays a central role in my life; it brought me the love of my life, Rob. We met at the Trans Rockies Run in 2009 and never looked back. These days we both are running ultras and eating is always a major focus! People always ask: What do eat during a race? What do you eat the night before? What nutrition plan do you follow? Food is a constant obsession of busy, hungry athletes and a great meal always brings people together.
Through the years, I have found more and more joy in creating meals for friends and family. Eating a mostly plant-based diet since I moved out on my own at 19, my fondest memories have been cooking good food with good friends. We have cooked together in kitchens, on campfires and everywhere in-between. I love creating seasonal, healthy meals to share, love a good garden, and have a habit of spending way too much money at the farmer’s market.
It sometimes is quite an endeavor to fuel long adventures on the trails. My core belief is that food should taste good and I don’t shy away from decadent ingredients as a part of my life, but balanced meals with proper nutrients are important for health and performance. I enjoy finding the balance between indulgence and moderation with creative concoctions in the kitchen. I take pride in creating healthy and delicious meals to feed the frenzy!
feeding the frenzy 
Hi Christina,
My husband sent me a link to your blog after reading an article about Rob. We met him this past summer at the TransRockies Run. It sounds like we both like the same kinds of delicious foods (I’m also vegetarian and have been playing with different recipes). We are making a trip to Sedona this month to do some trail running and are spending a night in Flagstaff. I was wondering if you might recommend any good restaurants. Any recommendations would be appreciated!
I’m enjoying your blog. Thanks!
Karen
So glad you are enjoying the blog, TransRockies is great! It holds a special place in my heart 🙂 Such a wonderful time of year to play in Sedona I am sure you will enjoy it, if you want any trail recommendations as well let me know! As for restaurants in Flag a few of my favorites are:
Pizzicletta
Criollo
Pato Thai
Macy’s -great for breakfast and lunch
Coppa Cafe – breakfast and lunch, they do make dinner but I haven’t had it!
Tinderbox – I order off of their “sides” and “starters” menu they will also do a vegetarian plate
These places vary in price if you hit up their websites you can see what would work best for you, there are many other great places in Flag too depending on what you are looking for. One famous restaurant that I still have not been to in Sedona is Elote, it gets rave reviews from everyone I know! Hope that helps.
Thank you so much for the recommendations! I had a quick peek online and they look fantastic. I really appreciate you taking the time to share 🙂
We would absolutely LOVE some trail recommendations too!!!
Thank you so much!
Karen
A few highlights in Sedona for me are the Templeton Trail, Mescal Trail, the “Airport Loop” (much prettier than it sounds!) and the Vultee Arch/Sterling Pass Area. This mountain bike site has great descriptions of a few great loops to run that involve these trails and other great ones to try:
http://www.mtbproject.com/directory/166203/sedona
Looks great! Thanks so much for taking the time and sharing. We are really looking forward to it. If you are up this way, we’d be happy to repay the favour.