Oven Beer Can Chicken

First of all, thank you so much for the sweet comments, emails, and notes about the changes taking place right now in our world.

It was definitely unusual waking up alone this morning for my workout. I’m accustomed to having a gym and commute buddy each day so it was a bit lonely. To avoid hitting the snooze button since I don’t have anyone to hold me accountable, I may have set my phone alarm for 5:40, 5:42, and 5:45. Success!

IMG_3349 (480x640)Due to a change in schedule with my trainer, I did my 3 mile run and spin today. There wasn’t a class that worked with my schedule so I just hopped on a spin bike and did my own thing for 20 minutes.

My legs felt a bit tight this morning after the workout so I spent a few minutes icing with vegetables because I’m classy like that.

IMG_3350 (478x640) The rest of my day was uneventful, other than the fact that I captured a picture of EVERYTHING I ate for the first time in ages. A few readers have requested that I make my daily food a more regular feature on the blog. I’m going to give it a try for a few days and see how I feel. I’m also definitely open to feedback.

IMG_3188 (478x640) Breakfast included oatmeal, banana, cinnamon, and 1/2 scoop of vanilla protein powder. I also enjoyed a cool and refreshing iced green tea on the side. Did you know that if you save your cup and you have a Gold Card, you get free refills at Starbucks?

My stomach was growling 30 minutes before we stepped out for lunch so I enjoyed my homemade fruit cup of strawberries and grapefruit.

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I tried a new salad combination today at lunch and loved the heartiness, flavor, and variety.

IMG_3367 (640x478) IMG_3369 (640x478) Today’s mix included grilled chicken, beets, baby spinach, 1/2 portion blue cheese, red onions, chopped tomatoes, celery, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. On the side I enjoyed Baked Ruffles.

I knew Bo and I would be eating dinner later tonight since I had an after work appointment, so I bit into a juicy peach around 4!

IMG_3368 (640x478)  My after work appointment was a facial!

IMG_3370 (640x478) IMG_3376 (480x640) IMG_3377 (640x478) Melissa makes fun of my spa obsessions but appointments like this are a great way to relax. Also, I wouldn’t say getting a massage once a month makes me an addict, but if it does, I’m okay with that.  I only get a facial once or twice a year so it’s a relaxing treat that also has wonderful side affects. In full disclosure, I’m working with Equinox to put together a special promotion for local New Yorkers but will also be doing a more in depth post regarding skin care and some of the things I learned today. The good news is a lot of the tips and tricks were free or very inexpensive!

The best part of the day though, was walking through the door to the smell of grilled chicken! Holy goodness! Who knew you could make beer can chicken in your oven?! IMG_3392 (640x478)

Tonight’s dinner included:

  • Butter lettuce salad with chopped tomatoes, red onion, salt, pepper, and Trader Joes Parmesan Ranch dressing
  • Beer Can Chicken made in the oven using our cast iron pan
  • Grilled squash and zucchini

IMG_3388 (640x478) IMG_3386 (640x478) IMG_3387 (640x478) IMG_3390 (640x478) Clearly it was a delicious dinner enjoyed by both of us.

Last but not least, a portion controlled dessert to answer my screaming sweet tooth.

IMG_3393 (478x640) Question: Do you enjoy the more thorough food pictures which document everything I eat?

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Fur Balls and Beer Can Chicken

After 10 sweaty miles yesterday morning, the day ended with a pretty amazing afternoon and evening.

Bo and I headed over to Theodora’s apartment around noon to walk Bailey and give him some love and attention while his mom rocked her first triathlon! IMG_3302 (640x478) IMG_3308 (478x640) IMG_3310 (640x478) How can this face not make us want a dog? While the feelings are definitely there, for now I think we’ll just be Aunt Ashley and Uncle Bo who spoil Bailey at every chance.

After a quick visit, we attempted to save money and take the subway out to Queens for a celebratory barbecue that Lacey hosted in Theodora’s honor. After waiting at 2 platforms for more than 15 minutes and then finally being told that the subways weren’t running out there, we caught the first cab we saw. This is how we felt at that point.

IMG_3312 (480x640) But, within 15 minutes we were enjoying amazing friends, food, and beer so our attitudes changed quite quickly.

theodoraashleytri (480x320)Theodora’s first tri experience may not have been all she had dreamed of but she sure as hell rocked it, especially the 5k, and was all smiles by the afternoon!   

Since meeting Theodora a year ago, Bo and I have not only been blessed with her friendship but also her great friends Shannon and Lacey. shannonlacey (480x320)

Our food for the afternoon was beyond my wildest dreams. Lacey singlehandedly put together a delicious, fresh, and healthy feast that we all thoroughly enjoyed. Seriously, who knew that grilled romaine was so delicious? I’ll definitely ask Lacey to share the recipes with y’all.

The menu included:

  • Grilled beer can chicken
  • Grilled romaine
  • Grilled corn on the cob
  • Foil grilled peppers and onions
  • Healthy pasta salad
  • Assorted beers
  • Italian pastries and cookies

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IMG_3314 (640x478) IMG_3317 (478x640) IMG_3318 (640x478)Theodora’s adorable mom was even there for the party and brought tasty Italian pastries for us to enjoy.

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Though the trip out to Queens was quick, I’d say we all had a blast. The fun continued for us since Shannon is a rock star friend who not only wakes up at 4am to support Theodora’s triathlon endeavors by providing door to door car service, but she also volunteered to drive us back into the city. Who cares if Bo had a date in the back seat with Bruiser, it was a hell of a lot better than trying to track down a cab in the heat or deal with the subway chaos.

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Bo and I are heading out to see Friends with Benefits but I’ll be back later with a recap of NYC Marathon Training week 2.

Question: What is your favorite healthy barbecue dish?

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