Donuts for Breakfast and the Power of Running

I think I need to institute a new Sometimes Healthy ritual for my Friday mornings: Semi-homemade glazed donut holes and coffee.

Is there a better combination?

Is there a better combination?

I can’t think of a sweeter way to start my weekend than with these pretty little babies. And, I can’t think of a better combination than coffee and donuts.

But, before I share the secret behind these delectable creations, I want to start your Fridays with a bit of running motivation. I’ve talked on this blog a few times before about a charity organization called Girls on the Run.

GOTR_2C_jpeg

Back in NYC, I volunteered with the organization, helping with PR and marketing, as well as participating in the 5K race as a “running buddy.”

Posing with my little running all-star, Makoyan.

Posing with my little running all-star, Makoyan.

I wrote about my experience on this blog and how inspiring it was to watch all of theses young women (3rd – 5th grade) finish a 5K with a giant smile on their faces.

For those of you that aren’t familiar with this incredible organization, here’s what you need to know…

Girls on the Run is a national organization aimed at inspiring girls to be confident and healthy through a unique curriculum that creatively integrates running. Throughout the 20 session program, these girls will learn important life skills, everything from nutrition to positive self-talk, while training to run a 5K at the end of the season. Each practice features a fun mix of interactive lessons and exercise, culminating in an end-of-the season 5K.

Girls on the Run, So much Fun!

Girls on the Run, So much Fun!

I was very excited to learn that a mother in the Hudson Valley had seen the value in this program and taken it upon herself to start a chapter for this region. I emailed her as soon as I moved here and have been working with the organization on marketing and PR ever since. I also had the opportunity to work at the 5K this past spring, and again, it was such a treat to see these young girls accomplish such an impressive milestone.

5K_collage

Since its beginning in 2012, the program has grown exponentially from just over 20 girls in the initial 5K to 100 this past spring. And, it’s looking like the fall season will be at least 130 girls.

Why does this excite me? Because, this year, after working with GOTR for 3 years, I’m finally going to be a coach of one of the teams! I cannot wait to meet the girls and hopefully to influence their lives in an extremely positive way.

Coach Hamburg!

Coach Hamburg!

Last night was coaches training, and it was just one of those feel-good nights. Listening to the women talk about their experiences coaching, I couldn’t help but be excited. There were even a few tears shed as one woman described empowering girls to think positively during practice by shouting out a compliment to them every time they finished a lap. As she described the impact that those simple words had on some of the girls, I definitely spotted a few watery eyes in the room…mine included.

As a “running nerd,” I feel so honored to be able to give the “bug” to girls at such a young age. Running is one of those tools that you can take with you anywhere – all you need is a pair of sneakers and some pavement. That’s what I love about it.

No matter where I go, the shoes comes with me. Oh, hello Boston!

No matter where I go, the shoes comes with me. Oh, hello Boston!

Running has played a large role in my self-confidence throughout my life. I find that whenever I am going through a difficult time, running is where I turn to help me work through my issues. With each mile, I gain clarity and confidence that I will make it through the tough times. There are times where I lose confidence in myself, and in those times, being able to run reminds me of all that I am capable of accomplishing.

On my way to finishing my first marathon in 2007...ignore cheesy head phones.

On my way to finishing my first marathon in 2007…ignore cheesy head phones.

I always say that if I had learned to run at a young age (instead of begrudgingly walking the mile, like everyone else in elementary school), I would probably be an even more confident person! And, that is why Girls on the Run means so much to me. These girls are just discovering who they are and how to deal with feelings of self-doubt and external problems, like bulling. Having the tool of running in their arsenal from the beginning will be invaluable to them as they navigate the difficult waters of growing up!

IMG_2946I hope to write about my experience as a coach throughout the season, so, stay tuned.

In the meantime, check out the secret to my little munchkins from this morning.

Semi-homemade!

Semi-homemade!

Oh, yes, that’s right my friends. These puppies are straight out of the box: Funfetti Vanilla Glazed Lil’ Donuts. I passed the box in the grocery store and just couldn’t help myself. While, I’m all about the homemade thing these days, sometimes, a girl has got to surrender to the cake box.

Can't.stop.biting.

Can’t.stop.biting.

If you’re having a bunch of people over for breakfast, this is the perfect thing to bake for the crowd. Simply mix a couple things, bake and dip. So easy. So delicious.

Now, after all this talk of Girls on the Run and eating so many lil’ donuts, I need to lace up those sneakers and head out for a run!

 

10 Thoughts on “Donuts for Breakfast and the Power of Running

  1. Girls on the Run seems like such a great organization!
    AND OH MY GOSH. You have no idea how much I love donuts with my coffee! I actually just had one 30 minutes ago haha! Love how easy your version is 🙂

  2. I had NO idea these existed! Those are my 2 most favorite things ever combined into 1!

  3. What??! I have never seen those bad boys.. they look delicious!

  4. Congrats Jamie on using your running talent and experience to do something so worthwhile- it truly is inspirational! Coffee and donuts is a combination ALMOST as good as chocolate and peanut butter.

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