tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65609778387089181852024-03-14T00:43:00.406-07:00Shine SweetlyHealthy vegetarian cooking, crafts, friends, laughter, knitting, pictures, fitness and coffee!Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-55484644165604721842013-02-26T09:53:00.004-08:002013-02-26T10:08:04.845-08:00Got Milk? Homemade Coconut Milk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I was making the transition from a vegetarian to more plant strong vegan diet - cow milk was one of the first (and most easily) things that I eliminated from my diet. Ya'll should know that I don't really like to preach <i>but </i>milk squeezed from some artificially inseminated cow who had her baby calf taken from her, but is then given who know what hormones and drugs to keep her lactating for as long as possible - so that I can enjoy a splash in my morning coffee?? Yes, strangly I had a very easy time giving up this morning ritual in place for one of the many yummy alternatives available.</div>
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Over the last few years I have tried several types of milk alternatives. Soy, coconut and almond remain my favourites. Recently I learned that some of the stabilizers added to these milk alternatives can irritate the tummy. If you drink the regular dairy products don't relax yet- you are included in the stabilizer party. </div>
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Carrageenan is extracted from red seaweed (sounds harmless enough) and is used in many dairy and milk products as a stabilizer and thickener. Unfortunately, studies dating all the way back to the 1960's have shown carrageenan to be linked to gastrointestinal diseases. As someone who suffers from a 'sensitive belly' I am always on the look out for food additives that may be adding to my problem.</div>
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The long and short of it......I doubt there is any reason to run in a panic around your home throwing away everything that contains carrageenan. However, next time you are shopping for dairy products or dairy alternatives, maybe compare ingredient lists of various brands and select those that do not use carrageenan.</div>
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For more information on foods that contain carrageenan follow <a href="http://www.cornucopia.org/shopping-guide-to-avoiding-organic-foods-with-carrageenan/" target="_blank">this link</a>.</div>
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One sure fire way to know exactly what is going into your milk.... make it at home! I avoided doing this forever because I thought it would be difficult and messy. I was wrong. This is really easy - fun even. AND it is the best tasting milk I have ever had. </div>
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The best part is you can completely adjust the ingredients and ratio to water to suit your preferances. I will give you my base recipe - but remember to adapt it to your tastes. Thus far I have only played with using almonds and coconut to make my milk. My favorite is actually to do a blend of 50/50 coconut and almond. The pictures below just show a coconut version. I also doubled the below recipe because I know how quickly I can slurp this stuff down :).</div>
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Homemade Nut Milk</div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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1 cup unsweetened coconut shreds (or almonds - soaked and rinsed for <i>at least</i> one hour prior)</div>
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3 1/2 cups filtered warm water (can use more or less to adjust thickness of milk)</div>
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<u>Optional Add-ins</u></div>
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1tsp vanilla extract OR 1 vanilla bean scraped</div>
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1 tsp cinnamon</div>
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small pinch of salt</div>
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sweetener or choice - agave, maple syrup, stevia, dates etc- to taste</div>
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Directions:</div>
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Combine all ingredients in blender and blend on high for several minutes. While blending, gently place cheese cloth in a strainer and position over a bowl (see photo below).</div>
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Slowly pour blended mixture into strainer and let sit for a few minutes (I normally clean-up the kitchen while my milk strains aways). Wash your hands! Gently lift the edges of your cheese cloth and 'hand milk' the remaining pulp. This is the fun part so do not skip- you will be leaving a lot of yummy milk in the cloth if you do!</div>
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Milk will be warm but you can do a taste test here to see if you would like more sweetener or flavors.</div>
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Ready for the step by step photos?? </div>
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It's go time!</div>
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The turbo speed is a little intense!</div>
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All ready with my cheesecloth, strainer, bowl trio!</div>
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Mmmm, so creamy!</div>
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Squeezing the bag. If your mind is going to funny places, you are not alone....</div>
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Silky smooth coconut milk. Tastes even better if you let it get cold! If your bowl does not have a pour spout, I <i>highly </i>recommend pouring the bowl of milk back into the blender before trying to pour into a mason jar or other container.</div>
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Got Milk?</div>
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-89389797526935996262013-02-19T12:01:00.002-08:002013-02-19T12:03:24.807-08:00South of the Border Rice Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am seriously missing the flavours of summer. I think this winter is harder for me than ever before because last summer was my first year growing my own edibles.... to go from eating fresh from your garden tomatoes, basil, cilantro, blueberries and more to the more tasteless store bought veggies of the winter variety is a fairly rough transition..... </div>
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But hey - the countdown to starting some seedlings indoors has begun.....</div>
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A couple of foods still seem to be attainable in the winter and pack the great flavours of their summertime brothers. Lime and cilantro are two friends I can count on to whisk me into a summery daydream.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>South of the Border Rice Salad</b></span></div>
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I mixed up this salad in less than 10 minutes one day just using what I had on hand. I happened to have some leftover cooked rice in the fridge so I used that.... the following weekend I made the same dish but with quinoa instead of rice... both were fab!</div>
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Ingredients</div>
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11/2 cup cooked brown rice (or quinoa)</div>
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1 cup frozen corn, thawed</div>
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1 cup black beans</div>
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1 large avocado, diced</div>
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1 cup tomatoes, diced</div>
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1/2 small sweet onion, diced</div>
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro</div>
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Zest and juice of 1 lime</div>
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Fresh ground pepper and sea salt to taste</div>
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Directions:</div>
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Mix all ingredients together. If storing, make sure the avocado gets its share of the lime juice to help prevent browning.</div>
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In other news.... my ZumbAtomic class is in full swing at The Peak in Hayden! I will soon be starting a couple of additional classes through Hayden Parks and Rec also. I am having a blast with this classes and learning a lot by interacting with all these new young personalities....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRLdvoyHO3xH2s9QpV2TpbSFkl7LZUggJvgCtjlT8Jw1Jf4iFzCyRkZFluY0hA4MMqLW0pQq8qdI0wzfzyuJU2wRRI-D4Ji7tqVQMppJNpXp47fL7tZcTVeJzu5cX7vrJbs0S6mBsE10/s1600/0001K8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRLdvoyHO3xH2s9QpV2TpbSFkl7LZUggJvgCtjlT8Jw1Jf4iFzCyRkZFluY0hA4MMqLW0pQq8qdI0wzfzyuJU2wRRI-D4Ji7tqVQMppJNpXp47fL7tZcTVeJzu5cX7vrJbs0S6mBsE10/s640/0001K8.jpeg" width="412" /></a></div>
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Here is a lil video sneak peak of the first class!!</div>
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Stay warm and eat citrus fruits - they taste great this time of year and are sunshine to the body!Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-75067875114018256962013-01-14T11:00:00.000-08:002013-01-14T11:06:02.808-08:00Fabulous FarroAre you ready for another yummy grain recipe? How about a soup that gives you a big nutritious hug as you slurp it down?<br />
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Say 'helllllo beautiful' to White Bean and Kale Farro Soup!<br />
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At Costco the other day I came across a large bag of Organic Italian Pearled Farro.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did you know that Farro is the original grain from which all others derive? Farro fed the Mediterranean and Near Eastern populations for thousands of years. Somewhat more recently, Farro was the standard ration of the Roman Legions that expanded throughout the western world.If it is good enough for those men in 300 - it should be able to get me through a Strong class! :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One serving of Farro packs in 34g of complex carbohydrates, 6g of protein, 5g of dietary fiber and is rich in antioxidants. It is also a very anti-inflammatory food.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best news is that it is delicious and was worked into the soup very easily. The hardest part of making this soup was trudging through the snow to harvest some very hardy kale.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spy with my little eye...</span></div>
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Get in ma belly- you amazing little green super food!</div>
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White Bean and Kale Farro Soup</div>
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Makes 8 servings<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ingredients</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 tablespoon olive oil</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 cup mushrooms, minced</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Braggs Amino Acid, 4-5 sprays</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 sweet onion, diced</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">2 medium carrots, sliced</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">6 garlic cloves, minced</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> salt, to taste</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 cup white beans, rinsed (I used canned chickpeas)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">8 cups of water</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 vegetarian bouillon cube</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 fresh bay leaf</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 cup farro, rinsed under cool water</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1 bunch kale, de-stemmed and ripped into chunks</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">½ to ¾teaspoon red pepper flakes</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Black pepper in a mill</span></div>
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Directions: Saute onions and garlic in OO until onions are translucent. Pour onions and garlic into large slow cooker (crock pot). Saute mushrooms in onions juice and Braggs Amino Acid for 5 minutes. Add to slow cooker.<br />
Add all other ingredients to crock pot, cover and cook on medium for 4 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Before serving season to taste with salt, pepper or more red pepper flakes and remove the Bay leaf.</div>
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Hour 0</div>
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Hour 2.5 on High</div>
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Are slow cookers not magical?</div>
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In other news, I was lucky enough to go snowshoeing for the first time! While the short cold days do wear me out sometimes (I am writing this blog post to procrastinate going outside and shoveling yet again), the beauty of the area I live in still takes my breath away.</div>
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Let me leave you with a couple of pictures from my North Idaho adventure. </div>
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If you live in the area and ever want to hike, run, cross country ski or snowshoe, please leave a comment and lets make a date!</div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-6527868111787760342013-01-08T09:50:00.002-08:002013-01-08T09:50:58.227-08:00Eggplant Bulgar Pilaf and Winter HikesObviously my new years resolution was not to blog more consistently. <br />
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I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and were able to enjoy some time with family and friends. <br />
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Now its back to reality! No more washing several ginger cookies down with a glass of So Delicious Egg Nog (don't look at me, I would never do that). No more messy house with glitter and tinsel in the strangest of places. No more crying while running on the treadmill because you just love that Christmas song your listening to that much.<br />
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The gym is busier than it has been since October and people all around are jumping back on the healthy bandwagon. It can certainly make things a littler easier for those of us who try to live a healthy lifestyle year round. I have been meeting with a lot of new people at the gym lately and part of that initial meeting is to talk about nutrition. One pattern that I see ALL the time, is well intentioned people trying to eat healthier and loose weight by restricting carbohydrates. Unfortunately, it seems that 20 years ago Dr Atkins instilled a fear of carbohydrates in us that would last far too long. I don't want to turn this into a crazy big blog on the different types of carbohydrates and why good complex carbohydrates are essential to your health- so let me cut right to the chase. The more complete, unprocessed and whole you can get your carbohydrate the better- and about 60% of your calories should be coming from these carbohydrates!<br />
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When I talk about whole grain carbohydrates I don't necessarily mean whole grain breads and pastas. While these foods are not evil and certainly better than their white counterparts, I am trying to get even grainier! Think oats before they have been turned into oatmeal bread, think qunioa, barley, millet, farro, rice, bulgar, wheat berries, and kasha. These grains are nutrient powerhouses filled with great complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein and depending on the grain, a whole slue of other nutrients. <br />
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While most of us do not have a millet recipe right at the top of our heads, many of these grains are easier to incorporate and cook with than you would imagine. My goal is to spend my next few blog posts sharing recipes incorporating one of these <i>grain</i>ular powerhouses.<br />
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Eggplant and Bulgar Pilaf<br />
(Makes 6 servings)</div>
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This pilaf is great served warm but also makes a yummy cold pilaf salad the next day. Feel free to add in vegetables that you prefer or have on hand and season to your taste- next time I'm going to add mushrooms.</div>
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Ingredients<br />
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1 cup bulgur (see Note)<br />
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided<br />
1 pound eggplant (see Tip), diced<br />
1 medium onion, diced<br />
1 large carrot, peeled and shredded<br />
2 large cloves garlic, minced<br />
2 tablespoons tomato paste<br />
2 Roma tomatoes, diced<br />
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning mix<br />
3/4 teaspoon salt<br />
Freshly ground pepper to taste<br />
1/2 cup vegetable stock (optional- I did not need)<br />
1/2 - 1 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley or cilantro<br />
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Preparation <br />
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1. Place bulgur in a large deep bowl, add enough warm water to cover by 2 inches, cover and let stand for 1 hour. Drain; set aside.<br />
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2. Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add eggplant. Do not stir for the first minute; then cook, stirring, until beginning to soften, 4 to 5 minutes. Push the eggplant to the sides, making a well in the middle for the other ingredients.<br />
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3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in the middle of the pan. Add onion, carrot and garlic. Do not stir for 2 minutes; then mix all the ingredients, including the eggplant, and cook, stirring, until the vegetables are soft, 3 to 4 minutes.<br />
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4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Make a well in the ingredients again and add tomato paste to the middle. Do not stir for 30 seconds; then turn the tomato paste over and cook for another 15 seconds. Add the drained bulgur, tomato, oregano, salt and pepper; stir well to combine. Heat through. If the eggplant is not completely tender, stir in broth, cover the pan and simmer until the eggplant reaches your desired tenderness. Remove from the heat; stir in parsley (or cilantro).<br />
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Tips & Notes<br />
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Note: Bulgur is made by parboiling, drying and coarsely grinding or cracking wheat berries. Bulgur just needs a quick soak in hot water for most uses. Look for it in the natural-foods section of large supermarkets, near other grains. I get mine from The Flour Mill Natural Foods in Hayden.<br />
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Tip: If you’re using large, common globe eggplant, which can be more bitter than other varieties, salting beforehand can reduce bitterness. To salt: Place prepped eggplant in a large colander and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour before using. Rinse well with cold water.<br />
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Nutrition Per serving: 214 calories; 10 g fat ( 1 g sat , 7 g mono ); 0 mg cholesterol; 29 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 5 g protein; 9 g fiber; 357 mg sodium; 533 mg potassium.<br />
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Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin A (64% daily value), Vitamin C (62% dv), Magnesium (17% dv), Potassium (15% dv)<br />
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I find that I get a little more sedentary in these colder months. In the summer I am gardening, running, riding my bike and generally just moving more. I try to remember that all types of weather can be enjoyable to get outdoors in - some of the funnest runs I have been on have been in the pouring rain. That being said I am not a fan of running on ice - however, a snowy hike is right up my alley. I finally <strike>forced</strike> enticed Thor into going on a winter hike with me - we ended up having a great time and I took a couple of photos to share with you!<br />
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What are your favourite ways to get outdoors in the winter months?</div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-14419151219239411582012-10-22T14:35:00.001-07:002012-10-22T15:04:27.626-07:00Pumpkin Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I missed my Silent Sunday post this week but here is the picture I would have posted had I made it to a computer..... </div>
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Eeek! Talk about "Happy Halloween"! This spider found a new home in my shoe and had to be coaxed out by the brave and rugged Thor. I did actually take this photo though - anyone who has known me a while knows that I must have come a <i>long</i> way to get this close to this spider! I have since learned that this is a Cat Spider (his HUGE back looks like a cats head- the points are the ears) and is non-poisonous and beneficial in the garden for killing insects. They create beautiful big webs and do not like to venture indoors. Thor and I decided not to kill this guy and set him out in a home away from my shoes.... </div>
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I am going to be wearing large gloves next time I'm pick up leaves....</div>
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Good thing we had a warm and hearty dinner to sooth our souls. I created this Pumpkin soup from a variety of recipes. It was the perfect combination of savory and sweet, light and filling and healthy and delicious. </div>
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<b><u>Pumpkin Soup</u></b></div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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1 sweet onion</div>
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1 clove garlic</div>
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3 lrg carrots, diced</div>
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2 stalks celery, diced</div>
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4-5 whole cloves</div>
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3 cups pumpkin puree</div>
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6 cups vegetable broth</div>
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2 tsp cinnamon</div>
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pinch of nutmeg</div>
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salt and pepper to taste</div>
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1/4 cup canned coconut milk</div>
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2 tbs pure maple syrup</div>
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In a large pot, saute onions and garlic until onions are translucent. To make the recipe oil free, I sautéed in a splash of the vegetable broth. Add carrots, celery and cloves and continue to cook until carrots are fork tender. Add the pumpkin and vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Remove cloves. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until lumps are gone. You can also do this by transferring your soup to a blender or food processor. Return soup to a light simmer. Taste and add cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and pepper to your preferance. Stir in coconut milk and maple syrup. Serve immediately or store in the refridgerator. </div>
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I would assume this soup will freeze well though I have not yet tried it.</div>
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Garnish with a dollop of coconut cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XjtBrHP203_LKywa_8qn8hLY0_sG2yxlT3Y0yJsiU95qEz7m9T8RCS9xIBDBcJJHTtpV1sF1hKqOzwtlXkcfgSFm91otjsgaXbiBd5FwIHC4orRDaN9CQLI2i4UfM7SSYa2YXvugWns/s1600/DSC03395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XjtBrHP203_LKywa_8qn8hLY0_sG2yxlT3Y0yJsiU95qEz7m9T8RCS9xIBDBcJJHTtpV1sF1hKqOzwtlXkcfgSFm91otjsgaXbiBd5FwIHC4orRDaN9CQLI2i4UfM7SSYa2YXvugWns/s640/DSC03395.JPG" width="450" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Tenn Sense Shout Out!</span></b></div>
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I wanted to finish todays post with a blog shout out to a fellow blogger, leader, amazing mother, army wife and friend. Her name is Amy and her blog is <a href="http://tennsense.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tenn Sense</a>. Amy writes about her family and their day to day joy, pain, successes and struggles as an army family, away from 'home' and raising a beautiful daughter with special needs. Tennyson was born very early (I think I remember Amy saying she was a little over 2lbs) and has had to fight many battles already just to live and interact in the same world as the rest of us.<br />
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Every time I see a new blog post up from Amy, I am so excited to read it. Not only because Amy is sharing a special peak into her amazing family, but because Amy shares this peak in such a beautiful and honest way. I have known Amy since high school and I knew very quickly after meeting her that this was one tough lady who did not hold back and was not afraid of saying how she felt, but I had no idea that this would transfer into some of the most beautiful writing I have ever read. There's no poetry, no fancy word choices and no flashing colours. Its just real.<br />
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Take a few moments to visit Amy and her <i>growing</i> family over at <a href="http://tennsense.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tenn Sense</a>. I know that you will be glad you did.<br />
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Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-23778226084199908642012-10-18T09:03:00.001-07:002012-10-18T09:05:18.947-07:00Baked Pumpkin OatmealFall is officially here. While I deeply mourn the loss of warm days, fresh heirloom tomatoes and sun kissed skin - there is a soft spot in my heart for the robust flavours of cinnamon and nutmeg. I could eat fall inspired foods morning, noon and night - in fact many days I do. My favourite way to kick-off a crisp fall morning is with baked oatmeal. While baking my oatmeal will never fully replace the gooey stove top version in my life, I do enjoy it as a little mid-week switcharoo.... I'm <i>wild...</i><br />
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You could bake many versions of this oatmeal- Apple Pie, Berry Cobbler, Banana Nut Butter etc....<br />
My favourite is Pumpkin Pie.<br />
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<b><u>Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal</u></b></div>
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Ingredients:<br />
1/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats<br />
1/3 cup pumpkin puree<br />
1/3 cup almond milk, unsweetened (or milk of choice)<br />
1 tbsp maple syrup<br />
1/2 tbsp chia seeds<br />
1/4 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
pinch of nutmeg and salt<br />
Optional Add-in: raisins or walnuts<br />
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Preheat oven to 380 degrees. Mix together all ingredients in an oven safe ramekin or bowl. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until firm. You can broil the top crust for an additional minute if you wish. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a splash of almond milk or a dollop of coconut whipped cream! (From my <a href="http://www.sammy-jane.blogspot.com/2012/10/im-backwith-chocolate-cake.html" target="_blank">chocolate cake recipe</a>)<br />
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I foresee many more pumpkin recipes in our near future.... today I will be baking my <a href="http://sammy-jane.blogspot.com/2011/10/whole-wheat-vegan-pumpkin-muffins.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Spice Muffins</a> for by Friday Biggest Loser muffins! 4 weeks of everyone weighing-in and turning in their homework! Go Team!</div>
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-67137331505534009512012-10-14T20:55:00.002-07:002012-10-14T20:56:01.191-07:00Silent Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-71907149914743618732012-10-13T14:35:00.001-07:002012-10-14T07:19:28.516-07:00I'm Back...With Chocolate Cake!!!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I must have composed my next blog post two dozen times in my head. My last post was in June and it seems like yesterday and like a lifetime ago all at once. I am not under any false pretense that my blog was an important part of anyones lives, though I know that there are a few of you out there that do read very consistently and I thank you for that. I think that I am the one that likely missed my blog posts the most. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Too me this is a type of diary and a social and creative outlet unlike any other. I feel held to a high standard to be as honest and forthright with my blog writing as I am when I talk to myself. Maybe that is why I have not blogged in a few months. While some exciting and great things have happened, there have also been events that maybe I am not ready to put to <strike>paper </strike>keyboard. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Maybe that is OK. Maybe I can share what I wish to share and let the rest come out naturally on its own. I have so missed this ritual and am so happy to hear the clicking of keys once again as I type this. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of my big motivations to return was a delightful recipe that I received many requests for. I knew that writing up the recipe on my blog and posting was the easiest way to share and so here I am. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This past month I launched a new nutrition program from my home called Plant Strong. This is something that I have wanted to do for a long time and I finally decided just to go for it. The program was a great success and I was so pleased with the amount of interest and support that this program received. I limited my first group to 8 people since we would be meeting in my home and I wanted to make sure that I got a chance to really get to know each person over the course duration of 4 weeks. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Each week I provided a nutrition lesson, Plant Strong recipes , recipe samples and a cooking demonstration. I think I can speak for the group when I say that we had a fantastic time and we all learned so much from each other. For the final week, I asked to group to bring their own Plant Strong dish and recipe to share with the group. I was so blown away by the yummy foods that came into my kitchen from carrot soup to pizzas to golden flax seed bread with coconut whipped cream. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The dish that I prepared for the group was of course a dessert..... anyone who had read my blog before knows that I have a terrible sweet tooth. The person who has read my blog before also knows that I don't just bake sweets the 'normal' way....</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Chocolate Cake With a Plant Strong Secret</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Inspired by <a href="http://www.chocolatecoveredkatie.com/">Chocolate Covered Katie</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Ingredients:</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/2 tsp baking soda</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/2 tsp salt</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1 tsp baking powder</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">2 tbsp ground flax</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/3 cup pure cane sugar</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/4 cup sugar replacement (stevia) or more sugar</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1 tbsp pure vanilla extract</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">2 loosely-packed cups frozen cauliflower, thawed completely but not cooked (Or omit and sub 1 cup canned pumpkin, if cauliflower is too weird for you. I cant wait to try the pumpkin version )</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/2 cup milk of choice. For pumpkin version, use just 1/3 cup milk </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">3 tbsp unsweetened applesauce</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Preheat oven to 350F, and grease an 8×8 square or 9 inch round baking dish. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl, and mix very well. Combine all liquid ingredients and the cauliflower in a food processor and blend until super-smooth, so there are NO lumps whatsoever.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Pour wet into dry, and mix until just combined, then pour into prepared pan and bake 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool completely.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">If making a double layered cake like I did, double the ingredients and bake in two round 9in pans.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Avo-Yum Chocolate Frosting</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><br />Ingredients:
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">2 avocados<br />
1/2 cup raw agave or sweetener of choice (I LOVE making date paste)<br />
1 cup cocoa powder<br />
1 tbs vanilla extract<br />
a tiny pinch of salt</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Feel free to play with different additions.... instant coffee grounds, coconut, cinnamon, mint extract etc....</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Coconut Whipped Cream</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Ingredients:</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1 can full fat canned coconut milk (placed in refrigerator at least overnight)</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1 Tbsp sweetner of choice (agave, sugar, maple syrup or stevia work well)</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">1/2 tsp vanilla</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Open can of coconut milk upside down. Pour liquid into a container to be saved for future culinary uses. You will be left with the “solid” coconut milk on the bottom. Scrape in a large bowl and beat on medium/high with an electric mixer until light and fluffy and soft peaks form. Add-in sweetener to taste and vanilla. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">A great recipe to get creative with- add flavors of choice such as mint, coconut, almond extract etc...</span></span></div>
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<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Assembling the Cake</span></u></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I spread my vanilla Coconut Whipped Cream on one of the 9 in cakes and then gently placed the 2nd cake right one top. I frosted the whole cake with the Avo-Yum frosting. I placed dollops of the Whipped Cream around the top of my cake and sprinkle coconut shreds on top for a special touch.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">There is a lot of work to be done on the blog..... my 'Recipe Archive' is a mess and my 'About Me' and 'Contact' is completely out of date... </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">But for right this moment, lets just eat some chocolate cake.</span></div>
Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-41622743297649580042012-06-04T10:45:00.000-07:002012-06-04T10:46:28.438-07:00MORE Banana Nut Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPN5cQjcuHkLaURNnzJK78Vll4GHvHY3fmwqRgbid3WzzR3dSmxpTbEM08NtTX-8fTfJBCnN4F8uGELYWtG4OoleBSxlr6xXW-LtnpQVx8nf-pKVEU8-_qn9_usE9L53Pp34VnWBw7Ck/s1600/DSC02733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPN5cQjcuHkLaURNnzJK78Vll4GHvHY3fmwqRgbid3WzzR3dSmxpTbEM08NtTX-8fTfJBCnN4F8uGELYWtG4OoleBSxlr6xXW-LtnpQVx8nf-pKVEU8-_qn9_usE9L53Pp34VnWBw7Ck/s640/DSC02733.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know that this is not the first time I have posted a Banana Nut Muffin recipe. Maybe not even the second time.... BUT how do you not love turning too old to eat bananas into sweet healthy treats. With this recipe I decided to try and go so healthy I would feel good about eating these for breakfast.... no sugar, no butters, no oils. Leave that stuff out and bring on the yummy factor.</div>
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Banana Nut Muffins</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 cup oats</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 tsp baking powder</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 tsp baking soda</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">2 tbsp unsweetened apple sauce</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1/2 cup maple syrup</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">2 tbsp flax seed powder + 4 tbsp water</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 cup mashed banana (about 3 bananas)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">6 tbsp nut butter (I used a mix of walnut and almond, but any nut butter is fine)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">3/4 cup water</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">2 tsp vanilla</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">2 tsp cinnamon</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">1 tsp nutmeg</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b><u>Directions:</u></b></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Mix flax seed powder and water, keep it aside.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Combine all the dry ingredients and mix well.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">In a separate bowl, stir oil and nut butter. Now add the mashed banana, flax seed and water mixture, 3/4 cup water and mix well. Pour the wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix till everything is combined. Add the spices and lightly mix in. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Spoon them into greased muffins tray - regular or mini sized work well.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degree F for 20-25 minutes or till the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_RShgbLY7Gw2SK8SmbCg5Z91leCSzQWN36IURfZTBciQ9U8sggG2-HVZStUx_O_MhjuGmzJg_-WjOhnuIumg7uMLuMMSPixVM_6QSThAqqoWlQIb9T_F9orXE6AWzbRZtdb1vR6_E9E/s1600/DSC02731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_RShgbLY7Gw2SK8SmbCg5Z91leCSzQWN36IURfZTBciQ9U8sggG2-HVZStUx_O_MhjuGmzJg_-WjOhnuIumg7uMLuMMSPixVM_6QSThAqqoWlQIb9T_F9orXE6AWzbRZtdb1vR6_E9E/s640/DSC02731.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Are you sick of pictures taken around my yard yet???? If you are now might be a good time to stop looking... BUT there is an awesome Iris picture to come.... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsllwPe5Xji8VhGmYPFF-yxSeGDohmGbVouaj_Ifj6YJr4yGMcs2Zxsb4itxtgJuRkvbxrytyuPJknYSaUmk4w4Wd6zxnWacPr5aV5FRJZ6og25KP4NhRoJ_DjGpNpH64MaSOw3tBbWE/s1600/DSC02738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsllwPe5Xji8VhGmYPFF-yxSeGDohmGbVouaj_Ifj6YJr4yGMcs2Zxsb4itxtgJuRkvbxrytyuPJknYSaUmk4w4Wd6zxnWacPr5aV5FRJZ6og25KP4NhRoJ_DjGpNpH64MaSOw3tBbWE/s640/DSC02738.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Enjoying the colours of Spring.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELrOMZdHtvROBhSPkgsNpsX5Ga8ZZlZ2GzZUYCXd50juoMRIcZrFTtwkqr7cX9Bouswd2Gg6QlIu6RXXp0Bgca0ljheFHTtgFiV-7TjSi03TZfhdUD3SL7VA7wdl52A8kZd11-Fzi_FE/s1600/DSC02697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELrOMZdHtvROBhSPkgsNpsX5Ga8ZZlZ2GzZUYCXd50juoMRIcZrFTtwkqr7cX9Bouswd2Gg6QlIu6RXXp0Bgca0ljheFHTtgFiV-7TjSi03TZfhdUD3SL7VA7wdl52A8kZd11-Fzi_FE/s640/DSC02697.JPG" width="596" /></a></div>
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I am smitten with these Iris's!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhar7tuf56iGyn8pGeDREyjaMnoumJWazIFrzJNwJrFr2SwCHJcf5kDyWWvcCF5mdevrJff0agSi9lhhTW04tfwywU7IF52xlu_RApt5vhc3DD9dHFYs6-l8IftSPTPuOKJ5ZD0_wD4AFY/s1600/DSC02712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhar7tuf56iGyn8pGeDREyjaMnoumJWazIFrzJNwJrFr2SwCHJcf5kDyWWvcCF5mdevrJff0agSi9lhhTW04tfwywU7IF52xlu_RApt5vhc3DD9dHFYs6-l8IftSPTPuOKJ5ZD0_wD4AFY/s640/DSC02712.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This might be one of my favourite pictures... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTYXp23cqVxUuEgLxlFnBIqKr8AMfEReDgI-UgE32QLMeO7Axgn0Ohm2P61ATGSlQPgTTjvTGLOplmqJS9tUpDzIokVwqdSc_ZIxD9zQL4zPGcoLE7ip7bFc47M-RpzzZob8VWhln1zc/s1600/DSC02705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTYXp23cqVxUuEgLxlFnBIqKr8AMfEReDgI-UgE32QLMeO7Axgn0Ohm2P61ATGSlQPgTTjvTGLOplmqJS9tUpDzIokVwqdSc_ZIxD9zQL4zPGcoLE7ip7bFc47M-RpzzZob8VWhln1zc/s640/DSC02705.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just love these pinks and greens.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZvablbIVhAxfW90EwvrfG6_MM2DYYF05hqos_7EpZHMcS3ONlyWv5o5AT2c1m31RoYoewmLTj0AVc2qPkeUg7a1xJ0mTlZiboRIWnhyBruiffgEapE99FTYXmhl8l0XyYh6IsE-oByQ/s1600/DSC02715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZvablbIVhAxfW90EwvrfG6_MM2DYYF05hqos_7EpZHMcS3ONlyWv5o5AT2c1m31RoYoewmLTj0AVc2qPkeUg7a1xJ0mTlZiboRIWnhyBruiffgEapE99FTYXmhl8l0XyYh6IsE-oByQ/s640/DSC02715.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Green tomatoes! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadRFsnviTlSevTetoEJl6D4yxhZ0KGiuJHGLBUQZJK32uxt4P7I8R40Ul-exInI7NtO6y6toY74dzyEjQz5Tw7GIY2czQ7F_tTGvLs3AaHCwGiu8abZ6wiDS5W1HyKrBOUXPGAoyPAco/s1600/DSC02719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadRFsnviTlSevTetoEJl6D4yxhZ0KGiuJHGLBUQZJK32uxt4P7I8R40Ul-exInI7NtO6y6toY74dzyEjQz5Tw7GIY2czQ7F_tTGvLs3AaHCwGiu8abZ6wiDS5W1HyKrBOUXPGAoyPAco/s640/DSC02719.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My veggie patch is coming right along.... Do you like the weed that is front and center there?!</div>
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-76367519276434752802012-06-01T18:01:00.001-07:002012-06-01T18:03:19.575-07:00Guacamole!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UpTC4ajGUCkwwwo2tUW3XdQXAsy-HYeITHg6WYjFO8NZrORDC6YEh4sNKwuG2dDG5grs0tJbCM4ua1FHK3zO7OJsbonq9PUQ4SUCjsrOV6gVMHTcfALg8aqfOS9pk456KoQfIQg_190/s1600/DSC02692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UpTC4ajGUCkwwwo2tUW3XdQXAsy-HYeITHg6WYjFO8NZrORDC6YEh4sNKwuG2dDG5grs0tJbCM4ua1FHK3zO7OJsbonq9PUQ4SUCjsrOV6gVMHTcfALg8aqfOS9pk456KoQfIQg_190/s640/DSC02692.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Guacamole! </div>
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Considering my deep passionate love for avocados I can not believe that I have not yet made guacamole. I think that I just end up eating them straight from their shell and have not taken the 5 minutes to turn them into this amazing little side.</div>
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So easy and super addictive. Lets just get to the recipe..</div>
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<u>Ingredients</u></div>
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3 ripe avocados</div>
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Juice of 1/2 lemon</div>
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3 cloves of garlic</div>
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2 TBS Salsa</div>
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2 TBS fresh minced cilantro</div>
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1 TBSP fresh minced mint</div>
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1 tsp cumin seeds</div>
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salt and pepper to taste</div>
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1. Just mix it all together! I Mashed 2 of the avocados and left one of them diced so I would have some nice chunks in there. </div>
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2. Try not to eat the entire batch in one sitting.... at least share it!</div>
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3. Have fun with this recipe... next time I want to roast the garlic..... yum!</div>
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Avocado Fun Facts!!</div>
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*Did you know that avocados contain all 18 essential amino acids. These means that they are a complete source of protein all on their own! As an added bonus they also contain fiber, which make those muscle building blocks even easier for your body to digest and use!</div>
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*Avocados contain healthy fats that help your body boost your HDL's or "good cholesterol". These help the body fight free radicals and prevent diabetes.</div>
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*Avocados are anti-inflammatory! Thanks to the power house of nutrients contained in these green wonders. Serve this guacamole to your family members who suffer from arthritis.</div>
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*Avocados are also know are 'Crocodile Pears'.</div>
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*The portion of the avocado closest to the skin in the most dense in nutrients. Be sure to scrape this part clean with a spoon!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0se_MU6Uy-7ef-tjbC9CD2J5HLuFZ8OtlD9qW0KRTeMlFTdhVzQWqWys24ypoZBqBCAlQPCKkiTDeQB-enskOTUKFyclFO6-yde_vGnJH0dL7YahjKOz3bYGITyF_p9AsD2x1y1NqbOc/s1600/DSC02687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0se_MU6Uy-7ef-tjbC9CD2J5HLuFZ8OtlD9qW0KRTeMlFTdhVzQWqWys24ypoZBqBCAlQPCKkiTDeQB-enskOTUKFyclFO6-yde_vGnJH0dL7YahjKOz3bYGITyF_p9AsD2x1y1NqbOc/s640/DSC02687.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-38005471535752686482012-05-31T12:26:00.001-07:002012-05-31T12:28:16.753-07:00Hello June!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JmkwVxZOG_fSm263tg3x2YH2c0TJpZDkgMpkkt-tOSHuLxWrov6SfUERwvaENGog2CoTHFcTAQOnKT00DovLCCpv-V_qyuDlbo7PdmhiaolxKr30chiVHHTehGPg-Z2txciFj3nZ8OU/s1600/DSC02671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JmkwVxZOG_fSm263tg3x2YH2c0TJpZDkgMpkkt-tOSHuLxWrov6SfUERwvaENGog2CoTHFcTAQOnKT00DovLCCpv-V_qyuDlbo7PdmhiaolxKr30chiVHHTehGPg-Z2txciFj3nZ8OU/s640/DSC02671.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you like the new background?? It is part of my attempt to re-inspire my blogging consistency.</div>
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Boy, I can not believe we are nearly half way through 2012 already! It has been a bit of a whirlwind year for me thus far but also a good year.</div>
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I am so excited that summer is arriving and I can not wait to explore more hiking, running, biking and other fun adventures in my new town of Hayden. </div>
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This last weekend we took the short drive to Sandpoint, ID. A cute little town surrounded by </div>
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Lake Pend Oreille.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhYW8ByPC799iQ4Tk8HxZBDiNVEhR8sPZMu__MNYhSeXXJiTaGRYsnTDfybuBET-_BgjIXp2yMxiFIE9vOp4-8CBAIhDYUTjB1AJuBliONJr5dzfavSAWRJyi_0tMP71dIDV2uEzQg2Y/s1600/DSC02681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhYW8ByPC799iQ4Tk8HxZBDiNVEhR8sPZMu__MNYhSeXXJiTaGRYsnTDfybuBET-_BgjIXp2yMxiFIE9vOp4-8CBAIhDYUTjB1AJuBliONJr5dzfavSAWRJyi_0tMP71dIDV2uEzQg2Y/s640/DSC02681.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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How darling are Thor's parents!?!?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIe7rBWRt6kFTWwvK91joCBvk_S87PiAezHT0U6tYhYg-oAwLfgqwB61qUC201w4ZOYxHJp5G5dS6F2hgjZVk_cs7l62NxUdLrLU85_9Q8Iw-8N_OEcX5AfykA91RoBAV95YSMRW2fAs/s1600/DSC02679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIe7rBWRt6kFTWwvK91joCBvk_S87PiAezHT0U6tYhYg-oAwLfgqwB61qUC201w4ZOYxHJp5G5dS6F2hgjZVk_cs7l62NxUdLrLU85_9Q8Iw-8N_OEcX5AfykA91RoBAV95YSMRW2fAs/s640/DSC02679.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I have been spending A LOT of time in my yard, prancing about, attempting my first veggie garden and weeding like a maniac. Here are a few of my favourite shots of the garden.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWN8HZDpLP_E9oVHQagq3QQZEfpcruivcxOfxwWEBFE7L6SPv87iI2gBirJlQzXEvF41EXbW2WJMipneZiPqybiIGZEzS75qBdFI-ObOSRVQCAUmqDUBmx3hyphenhyphen23B66hfJL9aw9r49CqyQ/s1600/DSC02639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWN8HZDpLP_E9oVHQagq3QQZEfpcruivcxOfxwWEBFE7L6SPv87iI2gBirJlQzXEvF41EXbW2WJMipneZiPqybiIGZEzS75qBdFI-ObOSRVQCAUmqDUBmx3hyphenhyphen23B66hfJL9aw9r49CqyQ/s640/DSC02639.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZj_MHKSrPgfgI5k8wrCT3DtgwWVjM4KD7uvlW2ZZkfBTHZegepEo6eZGejhu4VUbqYYomhX4L-2VGrTMQFzPKhPahLmAzJNgrQBPg2jQCQmujAhk_e6h9-LapfEVK7CC3hpr7DduQgJs/s1600/DSC02645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZj_MHKSrPgfgI5k8wrCT3DtgwWVjM4KD7uvlW2ZZkfBTHZegepEo6eZGejhu4VUbqYYomhX4L-2VGrTMQFzPKhPahLmAzJNgrQBPg2jQCQmujAhk_e6h9-LapfEVK7CC3hpr7DduQgJs/s640/DSC02645.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPWVnT1qJ8wLxWpc-3OluQFInyvjiaq_4h9McQOqjZu-uUIyR3oAV2UQ3WhskdAcLCPxJX2bz-Uqt2omdmASutG4fi63XQpkGGWHSdPEUbe43zeCqEj2l5y2833hk6BWrmwUi3QIfd94/s1600/DSC02673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPWVnT1qJ8wLxWpc-3OluQFInyvjiaq_4h9McQOqjZu-uUIyR3oAV2UQ3WhskdAcLCPxJX2bz-Uqt2omdmASutG4fi63XQpkGGWHSdPEUbe43zeCqEj2l5y2833hk6BWrmwUi3QIfd94/s640/DSC02673.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The list of edibles I am attempting to grow this year....<br />
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Carrots<br />
Beets<br />
Spinach<br />
Kale<br />
Arugula<br />
Sugar Snap Beans<br />
Shell Peas<br />
Lettuce<br />
6 Varieties of tomato plants<br />
Red, purple and yellow bell peppers<br />
Jalepeno<br />
2 Varieties of eggplants<br />
Zucchini<br />
Strawberries<br />
Herbs - chives, mint, rosemary, sage, parsley, cilantro and coming soon basil<br />
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Well I may have bit of more than I can chew (pun intended). It actually makes me a little nervouse to look at that list! <br />
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This is my first ever veggie garden so I am planning on a huge percentage of failure and experimentation! That way I can only be pleasantly surprised....haha.<br />
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A little note, I have a new love affair cooking up with Tazo Focus Tea. Orangey and chocolatey. YUM!!!<br />
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<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="208" data-width="208" id="rg_hi" 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" 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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-70159620628098001342012-05-27T08:50:00.001-07:002012-05-27T08:50:43.028-07:00Nutty Potato SaladOnce again, lets skip the whole "Its been a long time - so much to catch up on!" thing and just get right to the blog post....<br />
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As you likely know, I am living in a new house this spring. The lady before me did a wonderful job with planting a beautiful array of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers and I am having so much fun watching things come up from winter hibernation. Check out these two photos below that had less than a month between them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAjsFZ5wSq-mQlKXL_yznYlMcuPPtaLDNY3nUtmw1oqhxXUSkwB10iqM0FNLHj4CXn3sGPEJeBJGufIg6GRr5I3Fz-8S2jzWTERYMccWq4qIoIZSRi-cebo_8u2-zPs3VOHdED2whDV0/s1600/DSC02491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAjsFZ5wSq-mQlKXL_yznYlMcuPPtaLDNY3nUtmw1oqhxXUSkwB10iqM0FNLHj4CXn3sGPEJeBJGufIg6GRr5I3Fz-8S2jzWTERYMccWq4qIoIZSRi-cebo_8u2-zPs3VOHdED2whDV0/s320/DSC02491.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2cMLDojFdNnLqf5HJh6BSSeUVGh2u4g7e2p5XKmwZ_KjWCPgVYr5-gDtW3O0XAr0UCG2V_PCDcMGWsHh05_OUIKzlQHWIEOZVPLxa8v6sotcK47qR8ezDP92aitzjC61BNTDA2vIkeI/s1600/DSC02634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2cMLDojFdNnLqf5HJh6BSSeUVGh2u4g7e2p5XKmwZ_KjWCPgVYr5-gDtW3O0XAr0UCG2V_PCDcMGWsHh05_OUIKzlQHWIEOZVPLxa8v6sotcK47qR8ezDP92aitzjC61BNTDA2vIkeI/s320/DSC02634.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The crazy part is this was taken in mid-may and I already need to take another photo it has grown so much! Very exciting but also scary.... lets just pray that I don't kill everything and turn it into a big rock and dandelion patch.....<br />
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Thor's parents are here visiting for memorial day weekend and his mum was able to identify a chive plant right in that island.<br />
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Chives!!! After getting over my immediate craving for sour cream and chive potato chips, I did a little chive research.... did you know that pom pom flowers and buds on a chive plant are also edible??<br />
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Memorial day weekend and I have chives.... naturally this calls for potato salad.<br />
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But not just any gloopy, mayo loaded, artery clogging potato salad... I wanted a feel good, vegan, oil free, mayo free, protein packed potato salad that would knock your grandmas sock off......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxd_XrChkzAEKoHye5lTA6rc8-VHhBtG7LqwpfKQ-HCNvP88IapWDTcuNSBFnrEQ0QDDDuetiLRbKBz0PHXOOihsuUHPKfRb4cxy0uh2dM6MFnZDGeMqVgTBcgUY39KVvcKk9fyFZmpo/s1600/DSC02660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxd_XrChkzAEKoHye5lTA6rc8-VHhBtG7LqwpfKQ-HCNvP88IapWDTcuNSBFnrEQ0QDDDuetiLRbKBz0PHXOOihsuUHPKfRb4cxy0uh2dM6MFnZDGeMqVgTBcgUY39KVvcKk9fyFZmpo/s640/DSC02660.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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Some recipes take trial after trial after trial to get them right. This is not one of those recipes. I was in love at first taste.</div>
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<b><u>Nutty Potato Salad</u></b></div>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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2-3lbs red skinned potatoes, chopped into bite size pieces</div>
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1 cup cashew butter</div>
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1 cup almond milk</div>
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1 TBSP Ground Flax Seed</div>
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Juice of half a lemon</div>
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Sea Salt </div>
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Ground Pepper</div>
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1/2 Sweet onion, sliced</div>
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1 Red Bell pepper, diced</div>
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2 TBSP fresh chives, chopped</div>
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Chive flowers and buds for garnish, optional</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1. Boil your potatoes in water is a pinch of salt, until fork tender. Strain and allow to cool.</div>
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2. While the potatoes are boiling, your can prepare the sauce. In a food processor or high speed blender, blend cashew butter and milk until creamy. You can add more cashew butter or milk depending on how thick and creamy you want your glaze to be. More cashew to milk for a thicker mixture.</div>
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3. Add in flax seeds and lemon juice and continue to mix. Add in salt and pepper to taste. </div>
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At this point the base should taste to good your are considering eating it out of the food processor with a spoon. Play here to make it just right for you. More lemon? More salt and pepper? Maybe some curry powder? Get <i>crazy</i>.....</div>
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4. In a large bowl, stir together the onion, bell pepper and chives. Mix in your cashew cream mixture. Another taste test here is perfectly acceptable. :)</div>
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5. When the potatoes have cooled, gently toss them into your large bowl with the cream mixture to coat. Garnish and refrigerate until ready to serve.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYXLfT50ahpDFvm7xsG9VBLKMvdHb2fx1Lpdxe6G7z1ytiQ_3YDdLuNhqUrtcQXzJpPn0CsWQM2xeeKnt2pcQM0vbgbiKoULMDIgVx2lGW8Xcvq4kAGs34X_NGhZnqHI1CnNnoHH_aDc/s1600/DSC02655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYXLfT50ahpDFvm7xsG9VBLKMvdHb2fx1Lpdxe6G7z1ytiQ_3YDdLuNhqUrtcQXzJpPn0CsWQM2xeeKnt2pcQM0vbgbiKoULMDIgVx2lGW8Xcvq4kAGs34X_NGhZnqHI1CnNnoHH_aDc/s640/DSC02655.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Packed with tasty goodness and protein while containing non of the saturated fat and empty calories of a traditional potato salad, this version might just be your go to recipe for many years to come.<br />
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One last thought.....<br />
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Please keep in mind this memorial day, the reason for the national holiday. Between the camping and food and time outside, take a moment to honour those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.<br />
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-70008209018186973442012-03-28T08:51:00.000-07:002012-03-28T10:58:01.108-07:00In like a lion, out like a lambIt is late March and the areas that I grew up in are experiencing full blown Spring. Blossom on trees, daffodils opening up in the sunshine, lambs grazing in a field. If I have triggered your gag reflex already you may want to skip this post.<br />
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Here in the inland northwest and north Idaho, we are still in winter. Snow is not a surprising event and don't think about putting your hat and gloves away yet. However, for the past couple of weeks I have been closely watching the ground and the trees for signs that Spring is coming. Living in a new home with a new yard is really quite fun because I do not know what to expect. Will the trees bloom into flowers or go right to leaves? Are there bulbs quietly waiting under the ground? Is that plant a weed or something more exciting?<br />
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Yesterday, we had a breakthrough.......<br />
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CROCUS!</div>
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I might have skipped around the garden.... shhh, its our secret. It took me a little facebook, ask a friend help to even identify these beautiful little rays of sunshine. I am a very novice gardener. Hahahaha, I'm laughing because I just used the words "I" and "gardener" in the same sentence....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyAZtb3lH_tN7Y7hmXOiV6czl6LrqVtq4OHlpbQ6lHVPFcsNZzyR_1PTvlz2IT4lFP4KP-Ldc8m53AzF1MVCwm-fYak5PSBIlhBKegC_foVt6alQMLfSDINPlocthL6Sa_Z22SVL7mFo/s1600/DSC02431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyAZtb3lH_tN7Y7hmXOiV6czl6LrqVtq4OHlpbQ6lHVPFcsNZzyR_1PTvlz2IT4lFP4KP-Ldc8m53AzF1MVCwm-fYak5PSBIlhBKegC_foVt6alQMLfSDINPlocthL6Sa_Z22SVL7mFo/s640/DSC02431.jpg" width="640px" /></a></div>
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Morning dew on the Crocus buds.</div>
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Spring is emerging!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbNNdJftsllpNauIxIsFWm6MAU1kjbK019A1LONu8_VTCWTTV5Yh_Opm7rR2zv-V1FBTAQeJDjCWfiW2btB3WrJhdjFmikttbWYYticvMduGlPbmxsWMq3xdZLhyphenhyphenWhjhbnTryXoaeyKw/s1600/DSC02437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbNNdJftsllpNauIxIsFWm6MAU1kjbK019A1LONu8_VTCWTTV5Yh_Opm7rR2zv-V1FBTAQeJDjCWfiW2btB3WrJhdjFmikttbWYYticvMduGlPbmxsWMq3xdZLhyphenhyphenWhjhbnTryXoaeyKw/s640/DSC02437.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div>
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There are also purple ones!!! I decided to go on a little "Spring is coming" photo scavenger hunt....</div>
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Daffodils?? Anyone care to make a wager on the bloom date?</div>
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Not sure on these guys....tulips??? Can not wait to find out!!!!</div>
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Does anyone know what this fella is? He is kinda tucked away in the side yard with now other plants around...</div>
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Rhododendron buds waiting to bloom. I wonder what color they are?!?!</div>
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In the spirit of Spring and having my first garden, I am really excited to try growing vegetables. Try is a big word in that sentence. I could probably become a professional plant killer if my record of house plants is anything to go by. But I am going in with low hopes and expectations. If I eat anything that I grow this summer I will call it a very pleasant surprise. That being said I planted a few seeds. It is still a little early so I put then I'm this home made 'greenhouse' that I move indoors on cold nights. I made it from one of those salad containers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZUqrlfvzmlwM9IQZ68lOrExdk12eMJk3VwAgXyDqMP5PIeaSyT0ypuZZ12XJ1Utu8gvaY2DCHztyxIT7EEluch9KA2Vv5hG_xuSDf1E3j9gixMlJmnFFO7UqQhcmUrHgiVXij25MgP8/s1600/DSC02430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZUqrlfvzmlwM9IQZ68lOrExdk12eMJk3VwAgXyDqMP5PIeaSyT0ypuZZ12XJ1Utu8gvaY2DCHztyxIT7EEluch9KA2Vv5hG_xuSDf1E3j9gixMlJmnFFO7UqQhcmUrHgiVXij25MgP8/s640/DSC02430.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div>
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My little greenhouse waiting for some rays of sunshine. Obviously, <i>IF</i> anything sprouts here I will needs to get another bottom to put on top as the lid to allow for more vertical room. </div>
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Are you done with my jabbering on about Spring yet??? </div>
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I'm SOOO excited!!!</div>
\Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-16114480718761062162012-03-01T10:41:00.001-08:002012-03-01T10:41:42.179-08:00Have your popcorn, and eat it too!Hold the phones people!!!!<br />
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So you know those magic little bags that they made with super powers for microwaving popcorn instead of using a stove top? The ones that we pay $1-$2 for a bag when we know that the actual popcorn kernels cost mere pennies? The ones that you avoid reading the ingredient list because you know they filled the bag of your <i>healthy</i> snack with preservatives, food colouring and artificial flavours?<br />
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Well my friends, along with myself, you have been had! Those bags are not magical!! You can make popcorn in a brown paper lunch bag.<br />
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OK Ill give you a moment to digest what that means....<br />
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The convenience of microwavable popcorn...<br />
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Lots of $$$ savings....<br />
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No extra mystery ingredients....<br />
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Pop as little or as much popcorn as YOU want.....<br />
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Add your desired seasonings on any whim you have.....<br />
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Reduce packaging and waste...<br />
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Did I mention the extra $$ in your pocket?<br />
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I don't know if you are as excited as I am about this but I might have had popcorn for dinner last night.... and as a mid morning snack today. Not going to rule it out as an afternoon snack either...<br />
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OK, lets be honest. Most things that save money are a little harder to execute. This is easy.... fun even. I promise.</div>
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Get your brown paper bag. </div>
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Pour in about 3 TBS of kernels... I eyeball it. </div>
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Add a splash of oil, I am using vegetable but I want to try peanut. Then shake shake shake (maybe sing the song a little). </div>
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Fold the top over a couple of times. </div>
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Microwave on high until you hear the popping slow (about 2 minutes).</div>
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Season and enjoy!</div>
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I enjoy my popcorn with a TBSP of melted Earth Balance, sprinkling of nutritional yeast and a pinch of sea salt. </div>
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Get crazy... Chocolate - good! Cinnamon - good! Cayenne Pepper - hot!</div>
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There was a good ten minutes between these photos... I think.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvMkLVBgOdIb9eLR18NCQLupdLkow8DFW4NlhDdE953TGeRv0k6nyKt9JiVPHD7AllHVL6O8EgtYeJJ-eP1P9xAxWCDRfdUTl7r3uUYoxhdtZY-iUlV6v-54dBLGYN_ch0M6pdH3cdvk/s1600/DSC02377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvMkLVBgOdIb9eLR18NCQLupdLkow8DFW4NlhDdE953TGeRv0k6nyKt9JiVPHD7AllHVL6O8EgtYeJJ-eP1P9xAxWCDRfdUTl7r3uUYoxhdtZY-iUlV6v-54dBLGYN_ch0M6pdH3cdvk/s640/DSC02377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now what are you gonna do with all that money you save??? You know momma needs a new pair of shoes... JK!</div>
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-4250996611772680932012-02-15T18:32:00.000-08:002012-02-15T18:32:33.751-08:00Spring WreathIt may be February, but I've decided that Spring is starting. I'm sure I won't get too many complaints. It was time to take the Christmas wreath off the front door but I did not want to leave the door naked and so a spring wreath was created.<br />
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Love this wreath because it is inexpensive, easy, fast and no glue gun required. When I say fast and easy, I'm talking hit up Michael's on your way home from work and make this while your pasta is simmering...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_2hrgf021aJWfZ1lmcRoO3oLz2fL6qMOCVVghDh2U-HzxJsZkbgEJLKitkesnFTV7N4l4qfUBwe-ovBpoCJp-IDg65IMvSp0Ol5wXCtuoXU6O87TRM7CYquGLNgOiAJnOY71_maIjMQ/s1600/DSC02333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_2hrgf021aJWfZ1lmcRoO3oLz2fL6qMOCVVghDh2U-HzxJsZkbgEJLKitkesnFTV7N4l4qfUBwe-ovBpoCJp-IDg65IMvSp0Ol5wXCtuoXU6O87TRM7CYquGLNgOiAJnOY71_maIjMQ/s400/DSC02333.JPG" width="327" /></a></div>
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Materials:</div>
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3-5 strings of spring floral garland</div>
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1 woody wreath (mine is 21in)</div>
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Simply wrap the garland around your wreath, tucking the ends into the wood to secure. Try to space your flowers as evenly as possible.</div>
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Wa Lah! A spring garland!</div>
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I do know that it is voila not Wa Lah, but Wa Lah is just more fun.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUnXkVhVsXeZbrFT1XNJGmC0Bd2hAEo2Dlh1P3y8_B7seeQCVN2k4QUXHNCFmlKdSafeY5dxMdH31sOKgFT4b2EJp3D8J29In4z7GYgHtTYqlBUiTPj9xvnR9Z2X81k_Xk65PieM4OQw/s1600/DSC02335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUnXkVhVsXeZbrFT1XNJGmC0Bd2hAEo2Dlh1P3y8_B7seeQCVN2k4QUXHNCFmlKdSafeY5dxMdH31sOKgFT4b2EJp3D8J29In4z7GYgHtTYqlBUiTPj9xvnR9Z2X81k_Xk65PieM4OQw/s640/DSC02335.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-236194782334770032012-02-15T12:37:00.000-08:002012-02-15T12:41:29.504-08:00The Love Cookie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have I mentioned to you guys that Thor and I are closet cookie monsters? Its true. In public we generally make very healthy food choices and <strike>never</strike> <i>rarely</i> order dessert, but at home, we sit down with with big piles of cookies. Just look at the picture below....</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0m0sl5vfNef5aF8x5rXFLpDsrGfsdJPzdDqsqryFRWXjumNtmjWYFRWHOgWwqMM0qylt9ZilweO_91b9k739gamCa5HfYyd6jN9CzI99YyEE4_DmJ3_KlxVBoGJ1LwZYlwqI-UbunYo/s1600/DSC02324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0m0sl5vfNef5aF8x5rXFLpDsrGfsdJPzdDqsqryFRWXjumNtmjWYFRWHOgWwqMM0qylt9ZilweO_91b9k739gamCa5HfYyd6jN9CzI99YyEE4_DmJ3_KlxVBoGJ1LwZYlwqI-UbunYo/s640/DSC02324.jpg" width="418" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">OK, so this was a special occasion... Valentines Day!! Thor came home from work and made me wait in the bedroom while he warmed up some yummy McKenzie River Pizza and set a table with a red table cloth, wine and candles. It was perfect! I took care of dessert by baking up a big batch of these dark chocolate, cherry, almond, oatmeal cookies. Then we snuggled on the couch, watched a romantic movie, drank wine and ate way too many cookies. Bliss.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This cookie might be one of my all time favorites. Chewy, sweet, nutty, chocolatey, vegan, whole wheat... whats not to love???</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvAQKn5OdK33N6ohgee_L5z-Xy4mQ4bZUKP4E-6Xq8pFAgp_Zz7z4DW_x9cUnNXoKllfwARQ9kV45eVmaTeVYCgPxcY-67DXTZsmklIM6si1ImgYMgMfw_wvyxUufkWJW_dyL7bgS6_8/s1600/DSC02331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvAQKn5OdK33N6ohgee_L5z-Xy4mQ4bZUKP4E-6Xq8pFAgp_Zz7z4DW_x9cUnNXoKllfwARQ9kV45eVmaTeVYCgPxcY-67DXTZsmklIM6si1ImgYMgMfw_wvyxUufkWJW_dyL7bgS6_8/s640/DSC02331.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>The Love Cookie</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ingredients</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup all-purpose flour<br />1 cup whole wheat flour<br />1 tsp baking soda<br />1 tsp baking powder<br />1 tsp salt<br />1 cup Earth Balance<br />scant 1 cup sugar<br />scant 1 cup brown sugar<br />2 tsp tahini, stirred into 1/2 cup almond milk<br />2 tbsp coconut milk (the canned stuff, not the milk replacement)<br />1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />1/2 tsp almond extract (use all vanilla, if you like)<br />2 1/2 cups rolled or quick oats<br />2 cups semi sweet/dark chocolate chips<br />1 1/2 dried cherries<br />1 1/2 cups sliced almonds</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Preheat the oven to 350F. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda and powder, and the salt. Set aside.<br />2. In a large bowl, beat the Earth Balance and the sugars until creamy. Add the tahini/almond milk mixture, then the coconut milk and the extracts. Mix well.<br />3. With your mixer in low speed, add in half the flour mixture, mix well, then mix in the rest of the flour.<br />4. Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, cherries and nuts. Oil baking sheets or line with parchment paper.<br />5. Drop by teaspoon on the sheet and bake for about 13 minutes.<br />You want them golden brown on the edges, so they stay chewy in the center. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />Cool on baking sheet for at least 1-2 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This makes kind of a lot of cookies... just under 4 dozen for me. Believe it or not we did not eat all of those. I have actually frozen over half the batch so will let you know how they do. Most cookies freeze really well.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I hope you all had a LOVEly valentines day. Love yourself a little and make some of these Love Cookies... </span></span></div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-33471927257083782472012-02-05T15:25:00.000-08:002012-02-05T15:28:26.157-08:00Saturdays and Banana Nut Muffins<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXSlTsauYA4S7SJGicNElWGIfh4anbr7cFibeu8aIkJ8fmqZNglh4-VZzuJKPVLUlCLqNlMVzQroqZnxbRqqG5u5npVHeR8pnXE1rI6ko1l65VIQWhwUiRcwOXlozDnktk_USTez3J9U/s1600/DSC02275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXSlTsauYA4S7SJGicNElWGIfh4anbr7cFibeu8aIkJ8fmqZNglh4-VZzuJKPVLUlCLqNlMVzQroqZnxbRqqG5u5npVHeR8pnXE1rI6ko1l65VIQWhwUiRcwOXlozDnktk_USTez3J9U/s640/DSC02275.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lake Coeur d'Alene</div>
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What is a Saturday like in our house? Well this weekend it consisted of waking up and doing some knitting, meeting a gal pal for a small hike on Tubbs Hill in Coeur d'Alene (above pic), vacuum shopping, and watching Inglorious Bastard (good movie but horribly violent) with a mug of hot cocoa. Nothing to spectacular but I think it was a pretty wonderful Saturday.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBtJZn2G7BPbThwVDLc5Rag8gu-7qiEmaOwmiDeCXAz5Lpe1afIDKyswMaOhHdxMQonqWxx028LODLBgaca8R45hYsWukdocij7PD-OZseMO6rKOKf7aH_jGldMy8YXdJp3jQameTViw/s1600/DSC02277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBtJZn2G7BPbThwVDLc5Rag8gu-7qiEmaOwmiDeCXAz5Lpe1afIDKyswMaOhHdxMQonqWxx028LODLBgaca8R45hYsWukdocij7PD-OZseMO6rKOKf7aH_jGldMy8YXdJp3jQameTViw/s400/DSC02277.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Almost every year for birthdays and Christmas, my little brother Blayne gets Thor some type of cleaning tool knowing how much Thor likes things clean. He was very happy today.....</div>
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Side note---- the clowny window trim was left in the house by the previous owners, I promise you its coming down soon!</div>
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Not in chronological order here but.....</div>
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Friday I visited Thor at work with some Banana Nut Muffins. They were a hit and since they are whole wheat and vegan and white sugar free, they were a guilt free hit!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKP-K-pktRY2MTjHIpMaOrncQa7WybU_Qq9lzFuj9pm8U0XV7z4866bwnwoBljOc74EG4_0TtQ-WUnF5wtHTbZfxgLlkVg9EXcAppHGqvO2lxJPB-6_b1aJ8FCAeSRdzw6lCD9eF7q28c/s1600/DSC02269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKP-K-pktRY2MTjHIpMaOrncQa7WybU_Qq9lzFuj9pm8U0XV7z4866bwnwoBljOc74EG4_0TtQ-WUnF5wtHTbZfxgLlkVg9EXcAppHGqvO2lxJPB-6_b1aJ8FCAeSRdzw6lCD9eF7q28c/s640/DSC02269.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Banana Nut Muffins</span></div>
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<em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Wet</span></em></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup (appox 3 medium) mashed very ripe bananas</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 cup maple syrup ( can substitute with agave syrup) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 cup apple sauce</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 cup organic canola oil</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 tsp vanilla</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><em>Dry</em> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2 cup whole wheat flour</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 cup chopped walnuts</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4 tsp baking powder</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 tsp salt</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/2 tsp cinnamon powder</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 tsp nutmeg </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3.In another mixing bowl add the wet ingredients and mix well by hand or with an electric mixer. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix well.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. Grease muffin tins or insert paper liners into the muffin cups. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5. Spoon the batter into the cups and fill 3/4 full. Sprinkle tops with brown sugar and a couple of walnut pieces.</span></div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-6871029233857390762012-02-02T08:44:00.000-08:002012-02-02T08:45:28.985-08:00Holiday Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can not believe that I have not blogged this soup yet. This is my go-to gloomy day soup. This is the soup that every time I make it Thor says "This is really good soup." (I think he forgets that he has had it before... ?!?)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2010/11/16/holiday-soup-for-the-soul/">recipe</a> is from one of my favourite bloggers Angie over at <a href="http://www.ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a>. I am sure that she would be happy to know that her recipe has become a staple in my kitchen and that I am now sharing it with you!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvY7DwhlBbJ7IGhxtQNpKIRJ4XchxuJ9l1_9rK9KtN7mmru6r450aTU15JTsG_SOU3okQdhnBRCA7IcHAn682Ngkk18E1Qa0X4M1yTbJqCwOLVN6RFPcQ2QGusALlUSJsJBPfc6SQiNE/s1600/DSC02265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvY7DwhlBbJ7IGhxtQNpKIRJ4XchxuJ9l1_9rK9KtN7mmru6r450aTU15JTsG_SOU3okQdhnBRCA7IcHAn682Ngkk18E1Qa0X4M1yTbJqCwOLVN6RFPcQ2QGusALlUSJsJBPfc6SQiNE/s640/DSC02265.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the "Holiday Soup" because it contains spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and curry. I know you are questioning this, but somehow it all just works. I normally provide very generous measurements of these spices. Your house will smell divine and you will wish you had made a double batch. The soup freezes well so don't be shy about going ahead and doing just that.... </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Holiday Soup</u></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 large carrot, peeled and chopped</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup red quinoa, uncooked (I used the regular white because its what I had, be I recommend red)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 medium zucchini, chopped</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cloves garlic, minced</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 vegetable bouillon cube </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6 cups water, boiled</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One 15-ounce can diced tomatoes</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.5-2 cups cooked black beans (about one 15oz can, rinsed)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.5 tsp good-quality curry powder</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp of cinnamon</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp nutmeg</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups baby spinach leaves, well rinsed and roughly chopped</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 salt, to taste</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Freshly ground black pepper, to taste</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Directions</strong>: </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the chopped carrots, chopped zucchini, and minced garlic. Continue to sauté for about 5-7 minutes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Place your bouillon cube into a medium sized bowl. Boil 6 cups of water and pour over the bouillon cube. Stir well to dissolve. Add bouillon mixture, tomatoes, red quinoa, black beans, and spices + seasonings. Bring to a boil and then simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Add the roughly chopped spinach, stir well, and cover. Simmer on low for about 15-35 minutes. The longer you cook it the more the flavours will develop. Taste test and adjust seasonings if necessary. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Serve with some warm bread and even maybe a side salad and you have yourself a hearty and healthy meal. You don't even need to tell your family what amazing super foods the quinoa and spinach are....</span><br />
<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-24254722129706296232012-02-01T14:09:00.000-08:002012-02-01T14:13:40.349-08:00Lots of changes Max, lots of changes..I miss you guys. Really, I do. You are my sounding board. My journal. My excuse to not feel totally crazy and narcotic cooking like a mad women and taking 20 pictures of a single dish of food. And like a true friend, whether I post daily or monthly, the relationship is much the same.<br />
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Well big news in my house.... its a new house!!! The beau and I moved out to Hayden, Idaho a couple of weekends ago and have been settling in nicely to our new home. Couple of points about the move..<br />
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1. Moving furniture is really not that much fun. Make sure you have a good solid relationship with the person you are moving furniture with and take a moment to make each other laugh at the craziness of it all.<br />
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2. Starting fresh is fun! Where should I put the plates? pictures? What kind of door mat do we want? It is a lot of questions and we spend a lot of time saying "we should get this", but at the end of the day it is so fun to make those decisions and get a fresh start.<br />
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The other thing that is getting a bit of a fresh start is my career. I decided that the hour commute to my former job was just too far to drive in a climate that can be snowy 5-6 months out of the year, and so I am currently job hunting here in Hayden, Idaho. I actually already found a little job teaching Zumba and yoga 4 times a week at a martial arts studio and got a call this morning from a bigger gym looking for Zumba subs. In addition to teaching classes, I would also like to find another fun part time job where I can meet people and pick up some hours. I am thinking coffee but would be open to some other avenues too (dream job.....assistant vegan cook - not very probable in Hayden, ID).<br />
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Today on craigslist there was a job posting for a full time coffee shop manager. I am torn. I have done this before and enjoyed it but it was not what I envisioned for myself in Hayden. The job includes a salary and benefits but I would probably have to give up teaching group fitness classes to take the job. Advise? Words of wisdom?? Should I just apply and worry about making the decision if I am actually even offered the job??<br />
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HELP!!<br />
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Well, that is something to think on for sure but let me leave you with a couple of pictures....<br />
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<a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSPbkl-sYCw3eINpUndISNY1Y-fZxMc2NKCwEmtGQGr2Kmx_VDI" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="rg_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" id="rg_hi" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSPbkl-sYCw3eINpUndISNY1Y-fZxMc2NKCwEmtGQGr2Kmx_VDI" /></a></div>
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Hayden Lake - I live here!!!!!! OK, well I don't live on the lake but I do live in the town thats next to this lake...</div>
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Beautiful flowers sent to us from Thor's parents. Such a great surprise!</div>
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After YEARS of cooking with thrift store saucepans, I finally took the plunge and upgraded..the first meal? <a href="http://sammy-jane.blogspot.com/2011/02/pasta-alla-puttanesca-sammy-style.html">Pasta all Puttanesca</a> of course!</div>
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Oops must go... the timer is beeping for "Holiday Soup for the Soul"... recipe coming soon!!!</div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-75691359916008606402012-01-18T10:37:00.000-08:002012-01-18T10:38:13.847-08:00Kona Baby!I am officially the worlds most sporadic blogger. Im sorry.<br />
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Now thats out of the way.... Guess who just returned from a trip to Hawaii?!?! ME!!!!<br />
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I had the fantastic opportunity to visit with my college roommates and life long best friends in Kona, HI this past couple of weeks and I could not let it pass. I could sit here and ramble on and on with stories of swimming with sea turtles, paddle boarding with wild dolphins on either side of me, horseback riding in lush green farmland, or simply lying on a beach feeling warm sand between my toes.... but instead of all that let me just share some photos....cause thats all you really want anyway.<br />
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<br /></div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-67247669260943039082011-12-04T09:09:00.001-08:002011-12-05T08:34:13.898-08:00Souperhero SoupI am sure I have told you this before but I LOVE soups and stews in the winter. It is so hard to go wrong when making them and they tend to freeze and keep well.<br />
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I am naming this soup the Souperhero Soup because of some the the power veggies that are packed into it. Let's highlight some of those veggies and why you should eat more of them today...<br />
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Leeks- Leeks belong to the allium vegetable family and contain a lot of the health benefits that other members such as onions and garlic do. They are high (over 20% daily value) in vitamin K, Vitamin A and manganese. They also contain a significant amount of other nutrients such as vitamin c, b6, folate and iron. Leeks are very well known for their support of our cardiovascular system, which is why we <i>heart</i> them.<br />
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Lentils- Lentils are in the legumes family along with beans and contain some similar health benefits. Many people do find lentils easier on the digestive system and they have even been shown to have a very positive effect on digestive issues such as IBS. They are PACKED with nutrients including high (over 20% daily need) of molybdenum, folate, dietary fiber, tryptophan, manganese, iron, protein, phosphorus, copper, vitamin b1 AND potassium. That was a mouthful. Lentils help to lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels after a meal. Research has shown that a diet rich in legumes such as lentils <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">shows a whopping 82% reduction in risk of death from heart disease. I am not a calorie counter. I prefer to select my food based on nutrient value over calorie restriction, but if you were curious about t</span>he calorie cost of all this nutrition? Just 230 calories for a whole cup of cooked lentils. This tiny nutritional giant fills you up--not out.<br />
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Kale- Somebody once described kale to me as the vegetable that helps you age in reverse. I think they knew what they were talking about. Kale is known for its antioxidant value in the body and has 1,327% of your daily need of vitamin K!!! As if that were not enough is also contains 354% vitamin A and 88% vitamin C. I guess we can forget about chicken soup when we are feeling sick. It contains a laundry list of other nutrients including some that might surprise you such as calcium, protein and omega 3 fatty acids. I know, I know pick your jaw up off the floor, you CAN get those nutrients from foods other that meat, fish and dairy. Don't get me started on that....<br />
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Enough of the lecture, lets cook.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Souperhero Soup</span></div>
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Makes about 8 servings</div>
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Since its now dark here by 4pm, my picture quality is taking a big hit... </div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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2 TBS EVOO</div>
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1 large Leek, white part only, chopped</div>
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2-3 cloves garlic, minced</div>
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1.5 - 2 cups of lentils</div>
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4 cups veggie broth</div>
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4 cups water</div>
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1 sprig fresh rosemary</div>
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1 can (14.5oz) diced toms</div>
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5 cups torn kale leaves, no stems</div>
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1/2 cup of <a href="http://sammy-jane.blogspot.com/2011/03/avocado-pesto-pasta.html">pesto sauce</a></div>
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Salt and pepper to taste</div>
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1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add leek and garlic and saute about 5 mins or until leek is tender.</div>
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2. Add lentils, broth, water and rosemary. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. </div>
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2. Add kale and continue to simmer for 10 minutes.</div>
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3. Add tomatoes and simmer for 5-10 minutes, until lentils and kale are tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper.</div>
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4. Serve with a dollop of the pesto. </div>
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My taste judge Thor really enjoyed this soup, especially with a big dollop of the pesto mixed in. This recipe freezes well also so I stashed a container of it in the freezer to pull out in a couple of weeks when life gets crazy with the holidays.</div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-15248280476101069142011-12-02T07:43:00.001-08:002011-12-02T09:41:32.471-08:00Knitting MeltdownI have been knitting for a little over two years now. It has been a gradual learning curve but I really enjoy the process of knitting. It forces me to slow down and really focus my mind in a creative manner, that is likely very under produced in the physically driven body of a personal trainer. I love the feel of the yarns, the different colours and stitch patterns, and of course, I love finishing a project and wearing it around town.<br />
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I recently joined a Stitch & B*!*?h knitting group at a local yarn store and have LOVED getting to know other knitters, sip wine and chat away while we each work on our own projects. Maybe partially due to the confidence inspired by this group of co-knitters or maybe due to the beautiful cable scarf that I just got off my needles, I have been feeling less like a newby lately and ready to tackle some more complex projects. I wanted to try my first garment! <br />
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I found this beautiful shrug designed by Lion Brand Yarns. The name of the Shrug is '<em><strong>EASY</strong> </em>Lace Shrug'. So really, how hard could it be??<br />
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I was inspired. I was confident. I had a plan. I headed off to my knitting group with the pattern and picture in hand and a list of questions to ask the more experienced knitters. I understood all the stitches in the pattern. With a little patience and focus, what could possibly go wrong?</div>
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They assured my that I could handle this. I selected some beautiful jewel ruby yarn to knit with and I was off to knitting my gauge swatch. (I had never even knitted a gauge before because I selected items that it was unimportant, so I was feeling super proud!)</div>
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Prepare yourself for the dramatic turning point in my story....</div>
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After knitting a few inches in my shell lace pattern. I handed the swatch over to a more experienced knitter to get her opinion on if I had enough to determine my gauge. </div>
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She studied my knitting for a while then said "Let me just watch you knit a few rows."</div>
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I knew that this couldn't be good, but I had not yet grasped the depth of the situation. So, away I knitted with my experienced guide looking over my shoulder.</div>
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"Well," she started after a couple of rows were complete. "You are knitting in the 'Eastern European' style"</div>
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"I'm knitting in the <em>what</em>? Are you making that up?"</div>
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"No no, you're doing OK, there is no wrong way to knit" (so sweet of her to say, but really a little too kind) "you are just twisting every stitch that you knit, so your knitting is a little tighter and compressed."</div>
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What she was telling my in her very sweet and encouraging way, is that I do not know how to knit. I have been doing every single stitch incorrectly. I could literally feel any knitting ego I had built over the last two years come crashing down around me. </div>
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I poured a glass of wine and ate some chocolate. </div>
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I took a deep breath. </div>
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"OK, can you show me how I should do a knit stitch?"</div>
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</div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-79747231153183986032011-11-29T07:48:00.001-08:002011-11-29T10:24:10.636-08:00Few favsJust a quick post today,,, wanted to catch you up on three of my favourite things right now.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.blaynesrecipes.blogspot.com/p/snacks.html">My little brothers cooking video on his blog</a>. Just trust me on this ..... it is so worth two minutes of your life. Scroll to the bottom on the page and watch his video on making fruit kabobs. Just do it.<br />
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2. <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/01/01/ultimate-vegan-lentil-walnut-loaf/">Vegan Lentil Walnut Loaf</a>- If you are vegan you will never go without at another holiday meal.... in fact some of the meat eaters may steal bites of your loaf!<br />
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3. Nog for the dairy free!!!! Celebrations are in order...this stuff is soo yummy I have developed a horrible habit of having some in my coffee <strong><em>every</em></strong> morning. I don't know what I am going to do when the holidays are over....<br />
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<img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3313" height="333" src="http://veggiegrettie.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/so-delicious-holiday-milk-010-1.jpg?w=500&h=333" title="So Delicious Holiday Milk 010-1" width="500" /></div>
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Speaking of the holidays.... am I the only slacker who has done nothing in preparation so far?? Might have to at least get the Christmas songs onto my ipod today...</div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-13728998773908109922011-11-20T10:43:00.001-08:002011-11-25T09:23:40.878-08:00Vegan Pumpkin Mac n' Cheese<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVQNKIVS6D6pO1dcL5fBr7IhShNosTZwXe4kTl-Kb10gfjX3SjKIzlyAvKaMfxUu3WgVJFlv3D2OAT9nUUxsH1MbY7DjeqsIiqYJrBLzrAB7JWWcpSRMzForhbG6ZIb-FvoB7D0tSAfZo/s1600/DSC01527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVQNKIVS6D6pO1dcL5fBr7IhShNosTZwXe4kTl-Kb10gfjX3SjKIzlyAvKaMfxUu3WgVJFlv3D2OAT9nUUxsH1MbY7DjeqsIiqYJrBLzrAB7JWWcpSRMzForhbG6ZIb-FvoB7D0tSAfZo/s640/DSC01527.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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From Arizona to snowy Spokane! It is official - the first snow storm of the season made its way to the inland northwest. It really does help set the mood for some hot chocolate and Christmas music though!</div>
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Not bad for the first storm of the year! It has now warm warmed up, so we are living in a sloppy mess until the next round of the white stuff. </div>
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Who doesn't love to snuggle up to watch TV movies and eat warm gooey comfort food when snow is falling outside? Last night Mac N' Cheese was calling my name. If you have not yet figured it out I am a big fan of Angie over at <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a> and this recipe is based on her <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/10/13/vegan-pumpkin-mac-n-cheeze-sauce/">Pumpkin Mac N' Cheese</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE139JMU2b4OjBgaty8gsTH37JrBeQjnYjtdGEQ8zyQoio7KAqYA1-NCEyrK2S56Dm25E4zw1LSCZly4YpIn0_Vd6sU5LokHhBw1PSTEfjaeQTKZF2WKpIHqq1qwEVLL0WoGkh3dMEsEQ/s1600/DSC01525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE139JMU2b4OjBgaty8gsTH37JrBeQjnYjtdGEQ8zyQoio7KAqYA1-NCEyrK2S56Dm25E4zw1LSCZly4YpIn0_Vd6sU5LokHhBw1PSTEfjaeQTKZF2WKpIHqq1qwEVLL0WoGkh3dMEsEQ/s640/DSC01525.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Vegan Pumpkin Mac ‘n Cheeze </span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Ingredients:</span></h3>
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<span style="margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Whole Wheat Pasta</span></div>
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<span style="margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 cup baby spinach</span></div>
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1 tbsp Earth Balance (or other non-dairy butter replacer)</div>
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3/4 cup milk (I love coconut)</div>
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1 tbsp arrowroot powder (flour will do the trick too)</div>
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1/4 tsp garlic salt</div>
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6 tbsp nutritional yeast</div>
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1 cup canned pumpkin</div>
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Kosher & black pepper, to taste (I used 1/2 tsp salt)</div>
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Cinnamon</div>
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1. Cook pasta according to package directions<br />
2. Melt Earth balance in a pot over low-medium heat.<br />
2. In a small bowl, whisk together milk, arrowroot powder and garlic salt until clumps are gone. Add into pot and whisk.<br />
3. Stir in nutritional yeast and pepper. Whisk over low heat until thickened (only takes about 5 minutes). <br />
4. Add in 1 cup of canned pumpkin and stir until combined and heated through.Your amazing cheeze sauce is complete!<br />
5. When pasta is done stir fresh spinach into the water with the pasta for just a few seconds to allow spinach to wilt. Drain your pasta and spinach, return to saucepan and mix in cheeze sauce.Sprinkle on Cinnamon to taste.<br />
6 Snuggle under a blanket and enjoy!</div>
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</div>Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560977838708918185.post-10562076655564512682011-11-15T07:41:00.001-08:002011-11-16T08:51:59.446-08:00There is an Arizona!<br />
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Well, it has been so long it almost feels as if I am writing my first ever blog post. I am so very sorry to the small number of people that may actually look forward to new posts from me. promise I have not abandoned this project, just a little hiatus I suppose. So much has happened since we chatted last but instead of boring you with a long laundry list, I will just spend this post on our most recent trip to Phoenix, Arizona!<br />
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The first snow fall has officially arrived in Spokane, so an escape to a warmer climate was very welcomed. We were thoroughly enjoying the temps in the low 70's, while locals were bundling up in sweaters.<br />
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BBQ "Chicken" Sandwich. Vegan comfort food at Green, an all vegan restaurant in Tempe. One of my favourite things about traveling is discovering the array of veggie options in other cities.<br />
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Oh yes, we were<em> those</em> tourists! While locals bundled up, we rocked the convertible... it is what makes a work trip for Thor in to a bit more of a vacation.<br />
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Squinting in the sun! We attended "Fall Ball", minor league baseball. <br />
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Some of Thors newest fantasy baseball players.... what a dork!!! hehe</div>
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Feeling pretty cool!</div>
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On Saturday we drove up to Sedona, somehow I managed to snag the keys from Thor...</div>
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The red rocks of Sedona... Amazing!</div>
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Thor was not sure if he was impressed or terrified at my ability to take pictures, drink coffee and drive all at the same time. Women just multi-task better I guess...</div>
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More beautiful shots....</div>
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and more....</div>
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Cheese!<br />
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and more...</div>
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and more....</div>
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and more..</div>
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and more..... these pictures really make me want a high quality camera one day....<br />
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Sunset in Sedona. The cloudy day parted to give us the most spectacular sunset!</div>
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I am so grateful that I occasional get to tag along on these weekend work trips with Thor. Every place I travel I am so amazed b the beauty that surrounds us. Just another reminder at the spectacular gift that our world is.</div>
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Now it is back to reality in Spokane... the holiday season approaching quickly and TWO snow "storms" are headed our way. I think it is time to head to the kitchen for some warm vegan comfort food....</div>
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<br />Samanthahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00443646003772169500noreply@blogger.com1