What a Great Last Morning of the Year

I was wide awake quite early this morning for some reason.  After resting in bed for just a little longer I got up and got busy.  My sister, BIL and SB met me at the gym this morning for a wonderful 1 1/2 hour workout.  I got in 6 miles on the bike again, 1 – 8 min mile on the treadmill and a 30 minute circuit workout.  I’m feeling good at the moment, but I am sure the feel good muscle aches will kick in before too long.  All worth it though.  I am already feeling better about myself.  It is amazing what a little exercise can do.

I also spent some me time in the salon this morning to get my hair trimmed.  The last time I got it cut back in July I got 10 inches cut off.  This time I just got it shaped and thinned out a little so it doesn’t look like such a ragtop. 

I also stocked up on some delicious veggies and fruits to get me back on track with eating right.  Why are groceries so expensive anymore…especially the good for you groceries.  At least I did save over $15.00 with my bonus card.

I’ve been enjoying reading everyone’s year reflections and new goals for 2012.  I am planning on taking some time this afternoon jotting down a few of my own.  It has been a great year and I am looking forward to what 2012 has in store for me. 

The most delicious chicken

I have to apologize....this is a blog about alot of things, and when I originally started it, it focused on running.  I'm sorry I haven't been blogging much about running.  I've been in a little bit of a running rut lately.  I just haven't had the motivation.  Other things bounce in front of running.  School is keeping me busy and exhausted and by the time it is done, I'm ready to crash. I will come back to running...I always do...please bear with me while I gather some motivation and get my butt back into gear.

I like to keep things focused on not only running and excerise here on the blog but also like to talk about a ways to keep healthy.  I've really been taking a look lately at what I eat and the food I prepare not only for me but for my Cowboy too.  I get frustrated with cooking healthy, good-for-you-meals, because they take too long however, I am finding many ways to still do that but shorten the time.

My in-laws got me the Wolfgang Puck 5-Quart Electronic Pressure Cooker last christmas and I have used it quite a bit.  Not as much as I can or should...I'm getting there.  One of the best thing about this cooker is that it cooks things fast and they taste so good!

This gadget combines steam, heat, and pressure--while retaining all the nutrients and flavor of food.  It cuts cooking time down by 70%.  Today I cooked two split chicken breasts (bone in) for 15 minutes in my pressure cooker with cream of chicken soup and it was so tender, moist and DELICIOUS.   Just melt in your mouth delicious.  You can toss all kinds of things in this cooker...you can even delay the start up to 9 hours for those away from the kitchen during the day.  I haven't had anything turn out bad and am always amazed at how quick and delicious the end result is.  I've even put in a frozen pot roast and had it done and on the table in an hour.  It's great for vegetables and soups too.

Just thought I'd share today, one tool that helps me cook those good and healthy meals quickly.  I served the chicken tonight with steamed carrots and rice and it was a hit with Cowboy - plus we have leftover chicken to make chicken sandwiches tomorrow for lunch!  Win-win!

QOTD:  What kitchen tool makes your time in the kitchen easier?