HAP-py 4th of July!

I got my (holi)day started with a kick-butt workout! I’m repeating Gina’s 4-Week Summer Shape Up series this month, because I love it so, and today called for a reedick series of weight circuits and cardio bursts (I hate you squat jumps.) After a few indulgent days in a row, it felt good to work up a wicked sweat.

Then it was off to the grocery store to stock up on a few items for the upcoming week, before heading into work for a few hours. The museum I work for has special programs/activities for most major holidays and it was my turn to report for duty.

I was outside under the beating sun for the majority of my shift, rendering me hot, hungry and cough uber-cranky cough. I nearly cried with relief when I saw the following after walking in through the door:

Ben working on an early supper (beer in hand, natch,)

the umbrella open on the back deck, ready to eat said supper under,

(almost) birthday flowers sitting in a vase next to my seat,

and a Skinny Girl Margarita poured & ready to sip!!!

Yes!

Please!

Not two gulps later, we were ready to eat. Thank GOODNESS – I was starving!

Let’s see, what do we have here…

lightly grilled corn cut-off-the-cob,

roasted potato halves,

and Strawberry-Balsamic Grilled Chicken.

These chicken breasts were marinated in a mix of strawberry preserves, balsamic vinegar, EVOO, salt & pepper for a few hours before being grilled. I loved the sweet + charred taste combo!

Some fresh watermelon (and early birthday gifts!) ended the meal on a sweet note.

I’m definitely not a fruit-is-just-as-good-as-chocolate-for-dessert kind of gal, but this watermelon was just the ticket, and all that needed. So satisfying.

One refill and a hilarious birthday card later, I was my happy self again.

Love that guy – tie dye tee and all.

Kitchen duty calls,

Then it’s back to the deck to relax…

Hope you’re having a great holiday!

~~~~~

What’s your favorite firework?

My fave firework is the one that wilts down like a weeping willow, then crackles and glitters.