I have never been described as an athlete. At 48 years old I am honored. I also want you to know that I laughed rather hysterically at this. I threw in a picture to show my amusing athleticism. Enjoy. Recipe not included.

Daily Herald 1-13-09
Karen Hoag-Lifestyle Editor

Besides being a wife, mom and grandma, Orem's Pat Martinez is a student teacher, writer and athlete.
Presently, Pat is focusing on student teaching because she's so impressed with the students at Spanish Fork High School. She has five classes there. "The kids are wonderful, intelligent and dedicated to their education," says Pat. "I am very impressed with the feeling at Spanish Fork High. ...



"I recently sat poolside with a woman who said teenagers no longer had respect for education, but I was able to tell her my experience was different. Kids are still great in 2009."

She said substituting for a friend at Timpanogos High School a few years ago gave her the same great experience and "in part was what inspired me to go into education."

With English degree in hand, Pat returned to Brigham Young University for her teaching certification. "I will be 49 when I have my own classes," she says. "I would encourage women like myself, who have raised a family and have great experience with their children and other children, to consider this mid-life career change."

Pat and her husband, Tony, have four children and two grandchildren. One daughter, Paloma, age 15, is still at home. "Deciding to teach was, in part, to prepare me for when everyone leaves home," says Pat.

In addition to all these roles, Pat writes historical fiction. And Pat's personality really comes out when she talks about her passions: ocean and surf kayaking.

And yes, she cooks for her family. The basis for the dish she shares is quinoa (pronounced keen-wa), a high-protein grain available at health food stores or health food sections of most supermarkets.

"This is a tremendously healthy meal and can be made with any variety of vegetables," Pat says. "For the kind of demands and the kind of lifestyle I want to live, I want optimum nutrition.

"I like to make food that allows for flexibility and spontaneity -- what happens to be in the fridge or what is fresh from the market.

"My daughter requested this recipe just yesterday!"