Fitness Friday no. 21

| The Bee Life

Guys & Gals. How are we doing? It’s Friday yet again and we have one more week of September left before it’s October, woah!

I will admit heading into month 10 of 2016; I was hoping to have made better progress and be more consistent with my workout routine. I know for any of you who are keeping up that I am sounding like a BROKEN RECORD, I know.  Anyone want to just shake me and yell, JUST DO IT ALREADY?? Yeah, me too.  But since joining the professional world, finding that balance and continuing the same level of work I used to put towards my body and health has shifted drastically.  And from that perspective I have not been happy.
fitness-friday-no-21-the-bee-lifeI will also be the first to admit I have not been nearly as proactive as I preach or want to be. I could definitely be more proactive… I WILL be more proactive.  The statement above rings true for my mentality lately, I’ve been able to find a million excuses to justify why going home after work or not waking up early and telling myself I’ll do it later. In fact I started off with an excuse of work/life. Being fit, and healthy IS important to me, lazy is just getting in the way. Not to mention, I am pretty sure I am stressing myself out more about not working out than I am actually working out. Not proactive. Not helpful. No good.

Here are ways I plan to be proactive this fall!

Fall 2016 Goals:
– 2-morning workouts a  week
– 2-lunch workouts a week
– Weekend walks/runs/Barre3 on rainy days
– Continue to eat better

Already Planned:
– 5k scheduled for mid-October
– Gym membership purchased
– Weight Loss Challenge with B – starting Oct 1st

Here’s to pushing through, getting off our asses and pushing ourselves to be the people we know we can be and being happy with ourselves at the end of the day in all aspects.

Avocado Eggs – The Recipe

| The Bee Life

I’ve always seen the pictures on Pinterest of eggs cooked in avocados, and thought two things:

1. YUM
2. That looks like too much work

Well I was right about only one of those statements, YUM.  These guys are super easy to make so follow along and prepare to be amazed and so happy you tried something new.

What You’ll Need:
– Ripe Avocados (a little squishy)
– Eggs
– Muffin Pan
– Any other toppings; sriracha sauce, bacon bits, tomatoes,  onion… the options are endless.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Cut your avocado in half and remove the pit.  Next scope out more of the center to create a little nook for your egg.
  2. Place your eggs in the muffin pan so they rest and are secure, then crack an egg into each of your avocado halves. The egg will probably overflow a little bit, that’s OK.
  3. Add any seasonings or extra toppings, carefully, and then place carefully into the oven. You’ll want it at 450 and you’ll cook for at least 15 minutes.  Once 15-minutes is up check to see if it’s still gooey, if so, throw in for another 2-minutes, you might have to repeat this a few times – at least we have too.
  4. Let cool and then scoop out of the skin or eat from the skin and enjoy! It’s great by itself or enjoy on a salad like we often do for dinner.

We usually make these for dinner but these would be awesome with a side of bacon and some toast on a weekend morning and a warm cup of joe!

Enjoy!

Travel: Kansas City

| The Bee Life

This past week I was in Kansas City for a company wide retreat with my new marketing firm.  One thing I don’t typically bring to my blog is my work life, which is intentional *smiles*.  So to keep it brief on the work stuff; in short this retreat was an eye opener in a lot of ways.  Which is good.  So please enjoy my KC highlights!

KC Highlights:

  1. Hotel Sorella in the Plaza: I am a bit of a hotel snob, however, this place definitely did not give me much to complain about, or anything at all. It was modern and beautiful and had a great restaurant and rooftop pool area.
  2. The Guild: This is where we spent most of our time on the retreat and it’s a beautiful event space.  If I lived in KC, I would probably want to get married here.  The chandelier is a statement, not to mention the room is finished with black and white subway tiles with an open industrial feel.  They also had an amazing outdoor space that had strung lights over the sky – it was perfect.
  3. Time With Coworkers: Since I was with most of these people for nearly 3-days straight, I first, got to meet a lot of people I’ve worked with for the last 3-months and second, I got to have some one-on-one chats with people when it’s normally all business. Working with people across multiple time zones in multiple countries and states as definitely been an adjustment so I truly appreciated the more personal time and chats to get to know my coworkers.
  4. Being A Part of Something Great: I am pretty sure I hit the jackpot with my new company and I am excited for the opportunities that I have and the future. Transitioning has been a bit harder than I thought so it was great to feel inspired and hopeful that this is truly something special.

    Kansas City is a cool city and I hope one of these work trips I’ll be able to be a little bit more of a tourist and explore more parts of the city. All-in-all, it was a good trip, but it was great coming home to Moz and B and sleeping in my own bed.  I’m feeling recharged and motivated for the start of this new week!

Manhattans – The Recipe

| The Bee Life

It’s Friday my friends, and the nights are starting to get cooler – so I’ve got the perfect, classic drink for all of you – Manhattans.

Manhattans hold a special meaning to my family, it’s become our little family staple drink in order to remember my Grandma, Marilyn – it was definitely her drink.  Manhattans are a bit strong, depending on your level of taste, but oh so good once you acquire a taste for them.  I’m going to share my recipe – although I feel like there are a few variations you can do to mix it up.

What You’ll Need:

1. Whiskey – I prefer Makers Mark
2. Sweet Vermouth
3. Cherries
4. Bitters – Optional
5. Ice

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Directions: First get lots of ice cubes in your glass, get a shot glass (big or small) and pour in your sweet vermouth – 1 full shot.  Next pour in equal amounts of the Makers Mark, from there you can add a cherry or two for garnish and a splash, or pour of cherry juice. I don’t like adding bitters, but is definitely on some recipes. As you can see I even have Manhattans recipe napkins that were an awesome find at Marshalls – but have a totally different recipe.

Once you’ve mixed your drink to perfection and give it a good stir, be sure to cheers before taking your first sip! And if you have nothing to cheers for, cheers to Marilyn!


Cheers to Marilyn!

#EmnBWed – September Update

| The Bee Life

It’s about that time for another check-in on our wedding planning… or, surprise, surprise, lack thereof. When I was planning ahead for this post I had ideas on what I would share, hoping to share progress and real updates, but, that didn’t all go as planned, alas back at square one. So instead of forgoing the post and not having any true updates (besides what I am about to share), I wanted to share my experience in case someone else is  going through the same thing as they plan their wedding or in case someone experienced what I did, and can share a word of wisdom or two.

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photo cred: www.timothy-logan.com

I’ve heard the nightmare stories of wedding planning, although most of those happen closer to the wedding or in the planning steps of actuality – not during the hypothetical talks of ideas or wants….  all I can say is that if it gets worse (the opinions, guilt and lack of support, mainly from family) then I am quitting and throwing in the towel. Right. Now. Most people who know me, know that being stubborn is one of my finer qualities, *winks* and I bet would be surprised at the ease of me giving up, but just the decisions or debates around hypothetical’s is exhausting… it’s defeating.

I hit a breaking point over the weekend.  I told said person I am no longer discussing “the wedding” with them, until further notice. And only in that moment was said person, acting to be “OK” with everything I have been saying since day one. Nope, sorry, don’t believe it.

I have been joking and throwing out the idea… to well, everyone about eloping to try and warm them up to the idea, because… well… I’m pretty <f88k88> serious about it.  What I see in other weddings is that it becomes quickly about everyone beside the bride and groom. And in my mind, that day, the wedding, is just strictly that – all about the bride and groom. I want that special moment, that commitment, strictly between B and I.

At this rate, we won’t be getting married until 2019… (if it’s not eloping)… so I guess I’ve got awhile to figure this whole wedding thing out.  Wanting to be different in the way things are done, is not always the easiest way – especially if you’re the first one to do it.

I just want easy and simple – classic and elegant – me and B.

Cheers to being different!

Missing out on other wedding updates? Catch-up with:
Wedding Woes || Our Engagement Pictures || #EmnBWed – The Date 

Fitness Friday no. 20

| The Bee Life

TGIF!

With the “final” days of summer coming to a close, we need to soak up as much fresh air and beautiful weather as possible.  One way to do this is putting a twist on the normal workout routine, you’ll be able to be in the gym for the next 5-6 months. Here are some final ways to spread out into your weekends and enjoy that summer sun and have a few last adventures under our belts.
fitness-friday-no-20-the-bee-life

Kayaking
Don’t have a kayak of your own? Look around for local parks and services that allow hourly rental, hit up the water on an early morning and get a nice arm workout in.

Walking The Dog
Getting out with your pooch as much as possible before the cold snowy days comes is key. Not only are you helping your pup but you’re helping yourself.  If you can pick a spot to take your dog, you can kill two birds with one stone – this past weekend B and I went to Whole Foods with Moz, a little bit of a farther walk for us but we got to sit out and enjoy some breakfast as a rest.

Biking
Biking to a store or restaurants can be a great way over the weekend to get active while you’re checking things off on your to-do list.  Don’t want to deal with the traffic find some trails in local parks to get a more scenic view.

Urban Walking 
We live close to the city, but a smaller city in comparison to NYC or Chicago.  So on the weekends, especially in the mornings it’s quiet and perfect. So getting some extra adventures in and a change of scenery, the urban kind, by exploring new parts of the city can be another way to enjoy the weather, your city and get some extra steps.

Golfing
Without the cart.  Get your steps in and work on that swing all at once, this is a great way to relax enjoy the weather and also get an unconventional workout in, carrying a set of clubs for 18-holes or even 9 will definitely get you tired out.

Corn Hole Tourney
This may not be the most active way, but it’ll get you outside, working your arm muscles and socializing with friends.  Set-up an impromptu corn hole tourney with friends on a sunny afternoon, losers take a lap or have to do a set of push-ups, maybe even put some money on it to make it more competitive!

How are you enjoying the outdoors and getting exercise in too?

Travel: Jackson Hole – Part 3

| The Bee Life

Sick of all the amazing photos of beautiful scenery and food from our trip? Me either. This last recap is for the must see photo stops beyond the millions of other stops you can make along the way.

Oxbow Bend
This is on the north end of Jackson as you’re headed out to Jackson Lake Lodge or Yellowstone.  Not only does Oxbow Bend have great views of Mount Moran, but you can also bet on seeing some wildlife around there, particularly a grizzly or moose.

Jackson Lake Lodge
JLL is a great place for a nicer dinner and drinks especially if you want to be wowed by an amazing view of Mount Moran and the stunning range it belongs too.  Again, another great spot for animal watching especially early morning or in the evenings the floor to ceiling windows allow for nearly unobstructed views.

Jenny Lake
You’ll find that this is a popular destination for new and seasoned visitors.  Whether you’re stopping at a pull off to capture a peak of the lake, jumping on the ferry to cross over, or renting kayaks to paddle along you’ll have stunning views of Teewinot and Mount Owen.  This time around we went the kayak route which can be rented right at the boat dock and it was awesome.

Moulton Barn on Mormon Row 
This is one of the most photographed barns mainly because of it’s stunning views of the Grand Teton not to mention it’s iconic structure.  Since I first went out to JH, Moulton Barn has definitely risen on the map and is more “commericalized” with an outhouse, parking, and even a bridge to be able to walk over and get up close to the barn.  When we first went out the property seemed sacred only being able to get only as close as the fence would allow (below 2009 vs. 2016).  It’s definitely changed over the years, but still a must-see.

2009
2016

Schwabacher Landing
If you do an image search “Jackson Hole Wyoming” one of these iconic pictures of the Grand reflected into water will turn-up.  Most famously shot early mornings at sunrise you’ll be up before the sun to get this shot.  We did that on our last morning, got up early and waited until the sun came up to grab the perfect shot with the pinks on the tips of the mountains.  If you walk the trail further you’ll be guided to another marshy area full of beavers! Definitely a stunning shot that looks nearly fake in photos.

Jackson Town Square
The center of Jackson is cornered with four elk antler arches, huge arches that you can walk under and they stand in their glory day and night. It’s often sometimes hard to get a clean shot in front of an arch due to the tourists walking around and even snapping their own pictures – going early mornings or later in the evenings usually has a smaller crowd.  If not offer to snap a couples photo and have them take yours, in and out!

In Jackson, pretty much anywhere you drive will have stunning views of the Tetons or the foothills, it’s incredible how much beauty is packed into one space.

Questions on JH or just visited? Send me your pictures @mmariebee or leave a comment below!

ICYMI:  JH Recap #1 – Hikes || JH Recap #2 – Food || #EmnBtoJH – 2014

Travel: Jackson Hole – Part 2

| The Bee Life

Since this week is super rough after an amazing trip last week, let the JH recaps continue. This post is all about all the yummy food we ate and the dranks we drank!  There are definitely more places to visit than what we covered this past week, but none the less the spots we picked were pretty tasty too. Enjoy!

Cafe Genevieve
We had seen this spot on an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, so we definitely wanted to check it out, it did not disappoint. We ended up at this spot twice for brunch and were introduced to deliciousness AKA pig candy. The pig candy was a game changer, especially when paired with a Bloody Mary.  Oh, and you can buy it online too!  Not only was the atmosphere quaint and cute, but the service and staff was exceptional and the food was great. I went with the Biscuits with Canjun Gravy while B had the Snake River Farms Corned Beef Hash and the Cajun Eggs Benedict, all so good.

Snake River Brewery
The beers are great and it’s supporting local business with delicious food too.  We started with the beer sampler, which in and of itself is worth getting because of the presentation.  We then ordered the pretzels and cheese dip, ohmygawd. I ordered the bison burger, because when you’re out west it’s kind of a necessity to get a bison burger. I definitely over indulged but it was the good kind, plus you forget when the atmosphere is fun and tunes are cranking.

The Deck @ Piste
AKA happy hour at nearly 9,000 ft. AKA one of the most stunning happy hours you might ever go too.  The free gondola rides start at 4:30 and from there the 10-minute or so trip takes you up to The Deck.  The drinks are delicious and the views don’t stop it’s a win-win combination for good conversation and a good time – not to mention live music too!  We were able to get this happy hour in twice while we were in town.

Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is a staple in downtown Jackson.  It’s marquee is a photo stop day or night, but you must be 21 to enter this bar!  It wasn’t until 2-years ago that I finally got to visit the bar.  It’s rustic decor is just what you would expect, and yet the most known item at MDCB is the saddle bar stools. We enjoyed some cocktails and grabbed dinner at the bar, they have a Steakhouse in the basement, but we opted for chicken fingers, burgers and fries. *smiles* It’s definite a must-stop in JH.

A few other spots we visited were the Mangy Moose, E Leaven, Thai Me Up, Smokin’ Iron (awesome patio) and Moo’s Ice Cream. We definitely got to enjoy a lot more food since we stayed in town so we were closer for brunching, lunching or sipping, all of it within walking distance too!

Cheers!

Travel: Jackson Hole – Part 1

| The Bee Life

Happy Tuesday and start to a short week after a longggg weekend.  I was lucky enough to have a super long weekend and was vacationing all last week in one of my favorite spots ever – Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  The last time I was out in JH was two-years ago, which was the first time B got to experience the magic and beauty of the Grant Tetons, he feel in love too.  To share the love of my trip, and in case any of you are planning a trip or looking for your next vacation spot, here is Part 1 of our trip, focusing on the hikes we took throughout the week!

Taggart Lake Trailhead
Level: Easy – Moderate | Distance: About 3-miles
You can access Taggart Lake once you enter Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) from the Moose Entrance Station it’s one of the first stops that is clearly marked as you head north.  It’s definitely a popular spot and you’ll run into fellow hikers and tourists, throughout this hike you’ll be stunned and amazed at the Grand Teton as you keep getting closer and closer.  Once you get to Taggart Lake you can definitely relax in serenity and soak in the views of the Grand. If you’re looking for more views and a little longer of a hike from Taggart Lake you can go a little further and reach Bradley Lake, if you’re looking for something more challenging you can also head to Ampitheater Lake from the Taggart Lake Trailhead.

Geraldine Lucas Cabin
Level: Easy | Distance: 2-miles
Geraldine Lucas was a pioneer for her time and the second woman to ever climb the Grand Teton (at 58-years-young).  She was mostly notable, unfortunately, for being a divorced single mother,  not only was she divorced and a single mother but she also attended college, in Ohio of all places. She retired out in Jackson Hole in 1913 – she acquired nearly 160 acres for her homestead.   The property was later owned by Harold Fabian, and the property is now commonly referred to as the Lucas-Fabian Homestead.  This trail is a bit tougher to find – well currently, but the park service is finally getting this on the map with marked trails and signs (as it’s currently a bit of an adventure to find).  Again off Teton Park Rd., you’ll want to look for The Climbers Ranch road and drive down the road past the first driveway, over a bridge and park to your right in a little pull off. The Cottonwood Creek Trail to the homestead starts there. You’ll again reach stunning views of the Tetons once you reach the 11-house homestead, Geraldine picked a killer spot.

Two Oceans & Emma Matilda Lakes 
Level: Moderate – Hard |  Distance: 4-11 miles
This hike was a random pick by me, mainly because of the name, Emma Matilda, a nickname my mom calls me.  You’ll get here by taking 191 and continuing onto 191 at Moran Junction, from there follow the signs to Two Oceans and Emma Matilda, after entering the park. The hike around Emma Matilda Lake is about 11-miles. The hike from Two Oceans to Emma Matilda is about 4-miles depending on how much you explore, Two Oceans is about a 6-mile hike, so you’ve got a lot of options with this spot. Although this is prime bear country so be sure to make noise while hiking (wearing a bell or clapping) and be sure to have bear spray! We did not see any grizzlies, unfortunately, but this is definitely one of the less traveled trails. The views however once you reach Emma Matilda from Two Oceans is unbelievable and definitely worth it. Our hike was cut short from some thunder and rain, but still totally worth it.

Although we only went on three hikes throughout the week, they were all different from when we were last out in JH. It was fun getting out and exploring and seeing as much of the beauty as we could up close and personal.  There are so many hidden spots and treasures in GTNP, and these are definitely a few of them!