Adventures in Pulled Pork

Before I moved to Orlando and tried 4Rivers Smokehouse- I was not a BBQ fan. The California version of BBQ is a sad piece of grilled chicken with some Hunt's BBQ sauce poured on top. So when I tried 4Rivers after much hesitation, I fell in love. So much so, they catered my rehearsal dinner. They have even inspired me to try to make my own BBQ. So here is my adventure in pulled pork- which turned out amazing!

I picked up a 2lb boneless 'Boston Butt' at my local Fresh Market

I made a simple dry rub (the sauce is for later) and rubbed it on the meat after first applying some olive oil. to the roast.

Here is the meat ready to go- it doesn't need a lot of seasoning, I don't always measure, but the mix was about 2 tbs total. I popped in my slow cooker with half a cup of water on low

After about 6 hours it was looking and smelling amazing!

I drained the water, shredded the meat and put it back in the crockpot on high for the last two hours- and it was ready to eat.

I wish I had a plated photo, but it was so delicious I couldn't wait to eat it! (and neither could Gareth!)

Sneak Peek!

I had a lovely Labor Day weekend in Crystal River about 90 miles from the City Beautiful on the Gulf Coast. I have so many photos to go through, and lots to tell you about- but here is a sneak peek of our latest adventure!

Celebrate!

This week my family had two reasons to celebrate; it was my mom's birthday and she also officially passed her make up artist exams for Clinique! Hooray!
To celebrate these milestones, we went out to dinner at one of my favorite local restaurants El Bodegon for some tapas and wine!
Above is a little showcase of my mom's birthday outfit and my gift to her, a subscription to Birchbox!

Birthday Party by thecitybeautiful 

Winter Park Boat Tour

I love to show Orlando off to visitors. It is 'The City Beautiful' for a reason. One of my favorite local loves is the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Every time I have family visit, I take them on The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour- it's a great way to learn about the Orlando area while having fun! You can even see Rollins College where we had our engagement photos taken!  Here are a few pics from my last jaunt down the chain of lakes!

View through the Venetian Canal

Taking my father in law for a trip across the chain of lakes

 

 

 

View the of Kraft Azalea Gardens from the boat

Macarons Macarons Macarons

Macaron Obsession!

I recently ordered this adorable macaron tinket by from Chambre De Sucre through my Birchbox and now I am obsessed. It is just too cute, it really makes me want to eat a macaron everytime I take it out to grab my vitamins.

In Scripps Green, of course!

I was all too happy to find out there is a macaron bakery right by my house in Winter Park! I think the universe is trying to tell me something. . .

Le Macaron 216 North Park Avenue --Better stop by and check it out!

From Le Macaron

Summer Trends I love!

I rarely have time to shop, but I have been inspired by a few different summer looks. I think I might have to reward myself when I reach a few workout milestones!

Mint and Pistachio Hues

Tribal Prints

African Prints for Work!

Maxi Skirts and Dresses

Nautical Stripes

Statement Jewels

Be sure to check out  The City Beautiful's Pinterest to see what else inspires me!
What summer trends are you loving? Let me know!

Welcome!

 I hope my inspiration can be your inspiration!

Thank you for joining me on this journey !

This blog is all about a healthy lifestyle in Orlando- the city beautiful. 

Here you will find inspiration for delicious food, a bit of style and travel, and of course--local fun.  Feel free to share your ideas, I hope you enjoy my recipes, photos, and tips! 

A bit About Me

 I'm a newly wed who loves to travel! I have been fortunate to spend time in Europe, Central America, and Africa. I love to try new things and am constantly inspired by those around me. I am passionate about food, seeing the globe, and learning about my local community!

My husband is my rock, and he drives me to be a better person.  His zest for life and health has opened a whole new chapter in my life that I want to share with the world.