Friday we had the Business Fraternity (Alpha Kappa Psi) of DU come up for a tour of the LOVE GROWN Facilities (i.e. the LOVE PAD) and to learn a little more about how this whole thing got started!

We began the evening with some ping pong, gave them the grand tour, gave some history and mentioned how the first idea originated in the Penrose Library at DU, and answered awesome questions.

This group was super stellar and really fun! When asked how old we were, we had them first guess..”25..26..” when we told the we are 23 and 24 we all realized how crazy it was to think that we weren’t at DU that long ago.

Huge shout out to everyone in AKP…YOU GUYS ROCK! Come back anytime!

The below was taken directly from the blog: A Dietitian on the Run:

*     *     *

“I learned a long time ago that the way we choose to fuel will affect all aspects of our lives. Specifically, fueling mindfully before and after a workout will get you results – farther, faster, stronger, healthier. It was a slow process, but I realized what does/doesn’t work for me. I also realized it is definitely not worth it to skimp on the things you love – balance is always there to be had.

One food I love, but rarely “indulged” in at one point: Granola!

What better way to get back in the groove, than with LOVE GROWN Granola, right?

Typically, you can look the Nutrition Facts of Granola up and down only to see high amounts of sugar, fat, and scientifically named ingredients that couldn’t be found in a kitchen. But, that’s not how Maddy & Alex do things.

Read their story; it’s not only fascinating that such young people have already created such a successful (and tasty) business, but it’s also fun amazing that their site is already full of their products, the LOVE GROWN lifestyle & Upcoming events!

{Sidenote: Clearly I couldn’t even wait for the Granola’s photoshoot to dig in. Nope, those bags up there have already been ripped open and enjoyed}

Every bag is FREE of all of the above, and FULL of Love; FULL of ingredients you could just as likely have in your kitchen.

But, trust me, it’s worth it to let them do the cooking.

The Cocoa Goodness? That one is going quickly. It is definitely my favorite. I had no idea dark chocolate could go so well with toasted oats. It makes for a “healthier” dessert choice: combine with plain Greek Yogurt and enjoy.

The Sweet Cranberry Pecan is a very close second! It fueled me through yesterday afternoon, as I worked and waited for RUN CLUB time!

Our initial group was small, due to some extenuating circumstances that kept a few of my fellow lulus from joining. But, I LOVE this picture and I love that it shoes where we started! A great 3 mile loop, keeping the pace where we could all run together.”

*    *    *

Read all of Heather‘s AWESOME blog and discover her awesome health tips and recipes!

We wrapped up our Texas tour with a BANG! First, I must express how incredible Kroger stores are! We were blown away. I walked into one that made my jaw drop…I immediately texted Jason and Alex and said, “Think Target, Kroger, and Whole Foods all in one!” The store was most certainly your one-stop shop! From bedding to organic produce (and Love Grown of course) this store had it all!

We embarked on the long journey home–just in time to be back for the chaos of preparing for EXPOWEST. As I reminisce on this first 2 week trip, I realize how quickly it flew by. I guess you could say, “Time flies when you’re spreading love!” From all the wonderful people we met to all the awesome students we spoke to, this first trip with Elby the Love Bus was stellar! To have the opportunity to spread the LOVE of Love Grown Foods on a national level is truly a dream come true…to talk to consumers and students about the importance of eating more whole grains and being able to pronounce every ingredient in your food takes us (as a nation) one step closer to making health less of a privilege and more of a right.

None of this would have ever have been possible without Kroger. They saw the need for more products like ours, and have given us the most incredible opportunity to spread the LOVE! As we continue to travel the country, we hope to reach more and more people and have the LOVE become available in more locations.

Getting back to Colorado was great…though I feel as if I have been hit by a train. Game on for EXPOWEST and our next trip to CA, AZ, and UT! Be sure to look for the LOVE BUS in a city near you!

 

The below is taken directly from Dorry’s Blog: Living With Healthy Hunger.

*      *      *

“…And last, but certainly not least, Love Grown Foods granola.

Love Grown Foods was started by Maddy & Alex, a couple who met while attending the University of Denver.  What draws me to Love Grown Foods, besides the delicious product, is that Maddy and Alex have created more than a healthy food company, they have created a movement.  The Love Grown Foods lifestyle says,

“Live Free. To be healthy is to live free. You are in control of your health…We believe that health is balance. In order to be healthy, find things that keep you active but that you also enjoy doing! Turn off your TV and LIVE FREE!”

I had the chance to meet Maddy yesterday as they were in Dallas on the last leg of their bus tour spreading the love across Texas.  She was so endearing and kind, I could have spent the whole day with her.  She was generous to give me a variety of all of their delicious granola for a brunch-time meeting yesterday at lululemon.

The granola was a big hit with everyone, and eaten with yogurt, fruit, milk, or just straight from the bag.  We sampled every flavor, and each was unique, fresh and flavorful without being overly sweet.  Cocoa Goodness was a favorite.  Surprised?

Then you also won’t be surprised that later in the afternoon, I couldn’t resist having more of the Cocoa Goodness with my afternoon apple snack.

Click here for locations where Love Grown Foods granola is currently sold.

You can get involved with Love Grown Foods on Facebook and Twitter.

This granola will be making an appearance in my kitchen, and on the blog, frequently.  I also wanted to note that all varieties of granola are made with certified gluten-free oats, for anyone who eats a gluten-free diet or has an intolerance to it.

What are some things that you love from this past weekend?

Are you a fan of granola?  Do you like it plain?  With dried fruit or nuts?

I love granola.  My favorite varieties are honey or agave-based (as opposed to maple syrup), so Love Grown Foods has me covered there.

What’s your favorite springtime flower?

I’m loving the daffodils.  They are everywhere in our neighborhood.  I also love tulips.

I’m off to run 9 granola-fueled miles.

~Bird”

 

*    *    *

 

Read Dorry‘s full blog on her site! She has fabulous goodies, information, and so many great things!