Dude, Where's My Appetite?

I was pretty much a waste of space after the half marathon on Saturday — I tried to nap but couldn’t keep my eyes closed, so I curled up in a blankie and watched college football all afternoon. I kept waiting for my appetite to flare up, but it just never happened.

Runners, is this normal?

I forced down a tortilla with some jelly and a bowl of applesauce, but it sat like a rock in my stomach all day. I was bummed, because leading up to the race, I kept telling myself “every mile equals a piece of cake/pizza/insert junk food in here.”

Luckily, I started to get grumbly around dinnertime and decided on some nice sloppy barbecue to celebrate my hard work. That made someone a very happy boy.

We decided to try out 4 Rivers Smokehouse, which recently opened, promising the best BBQ in Central Florida. As big Dinosaur BBQ fans (it cracked us up that so many of you recognized Luke’s shirt here!) The line was out the door, which is always a good sign. And the menu boasted pulled pork, brisket, cornbread and much more. Another good sign.

I guess I should apologize now for anyone who found this blog by searching for Vegan Week. I may not eat a lot of meat, but when I do, I DO.IT.UP. It took us a while to read the menu and make out choices, especially because we were distracted by the fun of taking pictures in an enclosed, small space.

While we waited, one of the owners offered us a taste of brisket, which sealed the deal.

Lucas got a brisket sandwich with sides of mac and cheese and corn, and I got a pulled pork sandwich, on a baguette with mustard, with fried pickles and collards on the size. Luckily, we both like to share.

I think we both regret not getting those bacon-wrapped jalapenos. There will be a next time. Also, because neither of us went for dessert, and I think that might have been an oversight.

What a time to lose my appetite! The sandwiches were great, especially because the meat was smoked and came with some great, spicy sauces.

I came home, finished off my jelly bellies and passed out on the couch.

On Sunday, the ol’ appetite was still M.I.A., so I had some unpictured oatmeal with a side of housecleaning for breakfast. Got a box of baked goodness out to a special bidder, who helped raise money for Healthy Ashley‘s bake sale:

And had a Hugh Jass for lunch. Mmm.

Wait, something’s missing.

That’s better! After lunch, the husband took over the kitchen, although he had a sidekick.

And once the boys were done, I got to work, making a recipe that became an INSTANT favorite: Yuca Empanadas, stuffed with Plaintain Black Bean Mess and served with some sauteed yellow squash.

So good, and it made a ton! I nom nom nommmed one for lunch today. Mmmmm…

What’s the best BBQ you’ve ever had? My family has a dream to start a barbecue, honky-tonk music dive bar, and I’m curious to know what you think makes for good nomming!