happy. healthy. balance

2012-01-09T20:52:00.001-05:00

"The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak." -Hans Hofmann

Gorgeous Lentil Soup Pressure Cooker Recipe

2012-01-09T20:52:00.000-05:00

This Lentil Soup is Gorgeous! And not just because I made it. ;) But it's quick (by way of pressure cooking), simple, tasty and good for you. Looking at this picture makes my mouth water.

Using the pressure cooker:

1 whole onion diced
Saute in 1 stick of butter till sweated + glistening
Add 2-2.5 cups pre-soaked + rinsed lentils, chopped celery, carrots, parsley and 1 bay leaf
Add spring water till pot is 3/4 way full.
Bring to high heat.
Pressure cook under high heat for 12 minutes.
Slow pressure release.
Viola! Lentil Soup with vegetables!

Optional: I like to add kalamata olives, avocado slices and a few chips.

It's SO SO GOOD (gluten + grain free too). Enjoy!

A Lovely Getaway to Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa + Henry's Farm to Table Restaurant

2012-01-09T20:50:00.000-05:00

Need a quick getaway? Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa should be on your list. It's lovely, relaxing and the food is delicious (farm to table). They don't hold back on their complimentary breakfast (farm fresh eggs) and afternoon tea either. I couldn't have said it better so I've copied a bit from their site... I can vouch from my visit it's quite blissful.

Once through the stone gates of Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa, you are transported to a bucolic, self-contained retreat on the banks of the Hudson River. A seductively whimsical sanctuary in which you can recharge in one of the charmingly historic bedrooms or guest houses, relish a spa treatment utilizing fresh herbs from our Millstone Farm, or take a stroll of discovery on a network of trails leading to ponds, the property’s impressive namesake waterfall, wild flower fields and lush gardens sprouting dramatic sculptures. You can also savor a memorable dining experience at Henry’s Farm to Table restaurant and marvel at the antics of our Millstone Farm’s goats, chickens, llamas and alpacas… or simply relax, delighting in the uncommon degree of privacy our 75 acres affords with innumerable enticing nooks, both indoors and out.

The Inn offers 10 distinctively decorated rooms in the circa 1764 main building, with either river or garden views. Four architecturally intriguing guest houses and a former barn present an additional seven suites, all fielding stunning panoramas and secluded outdoor space. Each of Buttermilk Inn + Spa’s guest accommodations seamlessly blend modern luxury with rustic charm, boasting working fireplaces, eye-catching artwork, private bath with whirlpool tub and / or shower, flat-screen TVs, cable and air-conditioning. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in some of the guest house suites and is always available throughout the Inn’s main building.

2011-12-31T17:49:00.001-05:00

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings us peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." ❤

Last Day of 2011... Enjoy!

2011-12-31T14:30:00.001-05:00

Since I have recently updated the site, I haven't been able to "search" for everything unfortunately... but this one deserves a repeat for sure. :) This book, A Daily Dose of Sanity by Alan Cohen, is one of my all time favs and what I call a MUST read. Cohen shares a little bit of wisdom everyday. I found it to be lovely and inspiring on every level, and it fills one with so much gratitude. It's perfect any day you decide to pick it up- you don't need to begin on Jan 1st.

En*theos Academy by two of my favourite people, Alexandra Jaye Johnson and Brian Johnson gives you more insight into Mr. Cohen... and perhaps a good footing to begin your intentions and goals. A most superb way to start 2012. Thanks for reading and enjoy the last day of 2011! :))) Cheers!

2011-12-29T16:25:00.000-05:00

“Whatever your problem or challenge may be, laugh at it. Laugh long and hard. Because you are forever and it is temporary.” – M. Dooley

Update: Dangerously Delicious Gluten Free Low Glycemic Chocolate Chip Cookies now completely Grain Free + Protein Rich!

2011-12-29T16:24:00.000-05:00

I surprise myself with improvements sometimes, but alas this is a double update since I already thought I made these cookies even better. Now they are protein rich made with almond and chickpea flour.

Ingredients:
2.5 cups Almond Flour
1.5 cups Garbanzo Bean Flour (Chickpea Flour)
1.5 teaspoons Baking Soda
2 teaspoons Baking Powder 
1.5 teaspoons Sea Salt
2 1/2 sticks Unsalted Butter, softened 
2 cups Sweetener (Xyiltol + Palm Sugar is what I used this time)
2 large Eggs, room temperature 
2 teaspoons Vanilla extract 

Optional:
16 ounces Mast Brothers Chocolate Chips (Decadent! Wrote about HERE)
2 cups Dried Coconut Shavings
8 oz Sliced Almonds

Mix ingredients well together. Add in the optional ingredients and mix. You can refrigerate the dough for a bit or you can get right to it and make medium size balls of dough as above. This time I used parchment paper, which worked out wonderfully as I could keep baking (limited number of pans). Bake for approximately 18 minutes at 350 degrees. The tops should turn golden brown. Let cool and eat. SOOO good!

P.S. They go fantastically well with homemade coconut mylk recipe HERE. Also, most ingredients have been linked to the source- great source for organic almond flour in a large quantity (ie savings) and others from iherb.com which is seriously my #1 go to source for amazing ingredients. Use code: GOG211 for $5 off your first order. Yay!

Update: Protein Rich, Grain + Gluten Free Bread... now Toasted PB + J

2011-12-26T18:49:00.000-05:00

This toasted PB + J was inspired by a sample of super yummy St. Dalfour spread iherb sent me. It was delicious. Most importantly the jam is made with all natural ingredients- 100% fruit, there is no sugar added. More reasons to try this superb recipe, Protein Rich, Grain + Gluten Free Bread HERE. Haven't had PB + J in years and it was SUPER delicious. :)

Use iherb.com code: GOG211 for $5 off your first order.

P.S. I used ground chia seeds instead of flax this time round.

River Cottage Veg Everyday Book by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Review

2011-12-26T17:36:00.002-05:00

River Cottage/Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, has fast become a household favourite. Though he is not as known in the USA (as his show airs in the UK where he is from), you can watch most episodes on the shazzandfred youtube channel (yay!).

I love Hugh's approach... local and organic for all. He makes it fun, it's informative and not preachy. Quite inspiring! Plus the food dishes he whips up will have you drooling. If you are reading this, I am sure you will enjoy. Hugh has a new book, River Cottage Veg Everyday, which I love and thought I would share a few pics so you can get an idea of what the book is like, as I could not find any information online when looking to make the purchase. I love all the photos and the book has an especially lovely feel to it. I purchased mine on Amazon from a UK seller and it was here in a weeks time tops. Watch the video clip below for more info. Get ready to get hooked on RC. Cheers!

2011-11-26T23:11:00.001-05:00

"Don't ever forget how lucky you are to be you." -Mo Abdelbaki

Huntington Library, San Marino California

2011-11-26T23:11:00.000-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised with a trip to the Huntington Library in San Marino, California (a gorgeous area in itself). If you haven't been yet... GO. It's spectacular and therefore, a must see. Amazing foliage, crazy lusciousness and variety of different gardens are aplenty.

Be sure to smell the roses. Oui!

Owl Love

2011-11-26T23:10:00.001-05:00

That first little owl is especially too cute!

Enjoy!

True Food Kitchen, Newport Beach California Review

2011-11-26T23:10:00.000-05:00

I don't spend a lot of time in California these days, but I am always looking for great restaurants with good (organic, free range, farm to table, etc) food... everywhere. True Food Kitchen is now on the list. It's in Fashion Island (out of the mall) and just viewing the exterior you might not suspect anything special- unless you see the fire pits going. But inside it is a nice mix of modern, fresh, clean, warm and cozy. Wonderful service and the food really hit the spot. Most is organic and free range. Love. The soup was a vegetable elixir. I didn't have the pizza, but it was deemed delicious. I actually had the free range bison lettuce wrap burger (slowly trying to see how I feel with a little good meat) and sweet potato hash. So delicious.

2011-11-23T23:13:00.000-05:00

"Never fear shadows. They simply mean there is a light shining somewhere nearby." -Ruth E. Renkel

Mast Brothers Chocolate Review

2011-11-23T23:12:00.000-05:00

Mast Brothers is the best chocolate I have EVER had.

SERIOUSLY.

I have not tried their other flavours- but I won't ever get sick of this one. It's not "cheap", but it's worth every penny. Cacao, organic almonds roasted in Frankies olive oil (if you haven't been to Frankies GO- super good) and seasoned with marine sea salt. YUM!

Tapped The Movie: Water + Solutions

2011-11-23T23:11:00.000-05:00

Are you buying bottled water everyday? Tapped, in short examines the big business of bottled water, the public's right to water, and the effects it has on the environment. I have not seen the movie... yet. I know about the issues however. You might have seen: The Story of Bottled Water, I also saw Blue Gold : World Water Wars, which discusses the same issues and is a must see. I understand not wanting to drink tap. I don't. See HERE for why.

The best thing you can do is get spring water check: www.findaspring.com. Thanks to Daniel Vitalis and all those who keep sharing. For some that is not an easy option. The next best thing is to get a filter- I shared about my BerkeyWater Purifier Filtration System HERE.

Of course there are times when you will need to purchase bottle water. Try and support those companies that are using real spring water and glass containers. When on the go I generally bring water via a stainless steel container. Do not use aluminum (heavy metals) or plastic (bpa, chemicals, etc).

If your heart is set on glass- Life Factory has 16 oz glass protected by a silicone sleeve for $19.99 in an assortment of colours. Pretty sweet.

Primo Rockland, Maine : Farm to Table Restaurant Review

2011-11-23T23:10:00.000-05:00

You could say I am really into the farm to table restaurants. I like supporting them, because I like what they are all about. Primo is well primo. I happened to see Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations episode on Maine before I went and what a find! Luckily, I was staying not 10 minutes away. Primo has an amazing set up. They are on lush settings. Their gardens are aplenty. The food is delicious. Food grown organically- in the backyard (if you will) and with love, by renowned chef, Melissa Kelly... delicious is an understatement. Service is friendly. Formal dining downstairs (you need reservations) and 2 comfy, cozy, lovely areas upstairs with refined lighting are more my cup of tea. You don't need reservations for the upstairs dining, but it got super packed- fast so I would suggest getting there early. An added perk was their homemade limoncello- SOOO good. I can't wait to go back!

Primo:: 2 South Main Street, Rockland, Maine 04841/ 207.596.0770

Maine Fall Foliage

2011-11-21T19:18:00.000-05:00

Sometimes life is a blur. A good blur, but blurry. How's November almost over? Eeks!

I've so much to catch up with and have wanted for SO long to update the blog.

Hope you like the mini facelift.

These lovely images are from October- Maine- Fall Foliage... AMAZING!

If you have time to check it out next year- DO IT.

Twas the perfect combo of sublime, lovely and gorgeous.

:-)

2011-09-26T19:03:00.000-04:00

"The best way to make your dreams come true is to wake up." -Paul Valery

The Best Root Beer Recipe EVER! Zero Calories. Sugar Free Goodness!

2011-09-26T19:02:00.000-04:00

Take a glass of sparkling water (I use San Pellegrino).

Add a dropper of the Root Beer Stevia.

Viola! It's A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!

Especially good for those die hard soda drinkers looking for a healthy alternative. And for those of us that miss that taste minus all the bad stuff. My Pop who rarely likes any of my "health nut" stuff gives it his seal of approval.

TRY IT!

Baked, Buttered + Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

2011-09-26T19:01:00.000-04:00

'Tis the changing seasons...

squash is abundant and it's great to take advantage of their goodness.

Bake at 350 for approx 40 minutes. Cut in half.

Add a slab of butter. YUM. Stuffing choices are endless.

I used sauteed onions, garlic, with lentils, broccoli and topped it off with raisins.

SO good!

Yummy Completely Grain Gluten Free Pasta Recipe

2011-09-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

Not so long ago, I posted this Brown Rice Gluten Free Pasta Recipe- which is so delicious. However, in keeping things completely grain free I had to look for other options. I've tried kelp noodles (more on them later), but using spaghetti squash did the trick. It looks the same, tastes a little different- but still good and probably more nutritious.

Wash the squash. Poke holes in it and put in the oven at 350-375 degrees for about 45-60 minutes. Cut apart and scoop out the seeds.

Once you do that take a fork on the sides and it will come apart like pasta. Scoop out and dress as you wish. I did the same "dressing" as in the brown rice recipe, linked at top.

Cheers!

2011-09-24T15:12:00.001-04:00

"All life is vibration... If you are vibrating to injustice and resentment, you will meet it on your pathway, at every step." -Florence Shinn

Protein Rich, Grain + Gluten Free Bread... + Toast

2011-09-24T15:11:00.000-04:00

I saw this recipe on Elana's Pantry (which I love) and had to try it. It spoke to me. :) BREAD that I could eat sans reactions. WOW.

I've found that in addition to being gluten intolerant I basically don't do well with any kinds of grains (I think those who find themselves gluten intolerant would do better being grain free too), so sadly I've cut out my beloved brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, chia seeds, etc. Once in a while I will partake, but it's pretty rare. I find I just feel so good sans grains, but I do miss the way they taste. Her recipe calls for flax seeds which I have not had in years, but didn't have any problems and the next time round I will probably try brazil nuts in their place.

YES! Toasted. With Butter! :)

I mixed up her recipe a little bit. It's delicious!!!

1.5 cups blanched almond flour

2 tablespoons coconut flour

1/4 cup golden flaxseeds finely ground up

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1.5 teaspoons baking soda

5 eggs

1/4 cup coconut oil

1 tablespoon coconut nectar

1 tablespoon juice of an orange

1. Place almond flour, coconut flour, flax, salt and baking soda in a food processor.

2. Pulse ingredients together.

3. Pulse in eggs, oil, nectar and orange juice

4. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes

6. Cool and serve.

p.s. most ingredients came from iherb.com- if you haven't already tried them use coupon: GOG211 for $5 off your first order.

2011-09-05T12:04:00.000-04:00

"Success is determined not by what you get for reaching your destination, but by what you become by reaching it." -Zig Ziglar

Vegetable Salad Lentil Frittata

2011-09-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

This dish has LOADS of vegetables. LOADS. I wasn't sure what would be the best title because there are so many things going on. :) But it is filled with veg and of course- super delicious!

Let's get started.

The Frittata

1. Sauté 1/2 to 1 whole chopped onion in olive oil or butter (I used spray olive oil and a little butter)

2. Chop vegetables of your choice- this one contains green beans, mushrooms, zucchini, garlic and add to the onions to be lightly sauteéd.

3. Add 6 well beaten eggs and cover till top is pretty cooked thru.

(Digging in- almost forgot to take a picture...)

The Lentils

I cooked dry lentils in my pressure cooker and added spinach till slightly wilted.

The Salad

Micro Mix from Two Guys from Woodbridge, chopped olives, and diced avocado goes on the top.

It's delicious and super nutritious! YUM!

Body Restoration An Owners Manual

2011-09-05T12:02:00.000-04:00

Body Restoration by Michael Lebowitz DC and Ami Kapadia MD is a FANTASTIC book! An owners manual necessary for all who want to claim being the owner of their own body.

This is the table of contents so you can see what is covered. The book is available on Amazon.com for the Kindle- not sure why they do not have the actual book- but get it.

This reviewer says it well: Everyone should own this book! Each small chapter contains an in-depth explanation of how all the major organs and glands of the body work. The information is clear enough for patients to understand, while at the same time provides new treatment ideas and clues that even a career long health-professional can put to use. As a holistic Chiropractor and student of Dr. Lebowitz's, this book is helping me to educate patients (and myself) on the complicating factors of organ dysfunction, and lists multiple nutritional supplements to consider. Patients who pick up a copy are understanding more about ulcers, hypo-thyroidism, hormonal imbalances, etc. than ever before, and are eager to try the suggestions in the book. Patients who have all this information in one place are more likely to follow the simple dietary and lifestyle do's and dont's for each condition listed. (Yesterday a patient of mine was reading the book and turned and told her husband: "See, I told you all that coffee you drink is making your stomach worse.") I agree that this book is "An Owners Manual" for the human body. -Dr. Jeff McCloskey

Cheers to knowing more about our bodies and taking care of them!

Black Garlic

2011-09-05T12:01:00.000-04:00

Black garlic is delicious! Picked up this little gem at Dean & Deluca- it was $2.70 ($40.00 per pound). Not cheap, but for what they have to do to it + it's benefits- it's not bad. They ferment it at 130 degrees for 40 days and then they hand pick the ones that are good. The regular garlic from the farmers market goes for $1.50.

Black garlic is all-natural. There are no additives and no preservatives. It’s loaded with nearly twice as many antioxidants as raw garlic. It also contains S-Allycysteine, which is fancy talk for a natural compound that has been proven to be a factor in cancer prevention

Also available on blackgarlic.com, and they describe it well: Black garlic is sweet meets savory, a perfect mix of molasses-like richness and tangy garlic undertones. It has a tender, almost jelly-like texture with a melt-in-your-mouth consistency similar to a soft, dried fruit. Hard to believe, but true. It’s as delicious as it is unique.

Use it as you would regular garlic... oh and it's fantastic on dark chocolate. Yep. Garlic on chocolate. Try it. :)

Check These Links

2011-09-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

There has been quite an absence of posts I realize... I have been trying to keep up a little on FaceBook posting as I can- though I realize not all of us are on FaceBook understandably. :) Some are on but not on too. Haha! In any case if you are on FaceBook please like HHB to stay connected in any absence. The page can be found HERE. And for those of you not on FaceBook here are some good links not to be missed.

ALICE WATERS: EDIBLE EDUCATION

L❤VE! Beautiful short film! "When children are involved in the growing and preparing of food, they always want to eat it. I think this is the way to turn around this crisis in the nation's health. If children have the chance, they all fall in love with real food, and through the Edible Schoolyard project they learn lifelong lessons of nutrition. I am just hopeful we can bring this experience to every child." :)

http://www.nowness.com/day/2011/8/24?ecid=emfb1001

AGAVE IS DE-LISTED AS LOW GLYCEMIC

Agave is sweet, but def not low glycemic- raw or not. Was officially "de-listed" as low glycemic. See 4:40 for details. Try stevia. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkuKGH7dJj8&feature=feedlik

AT VACANT HOMES, FORAGING FOR FRUIT

It’s a perfect storm of vacant properties and people who need a quality food source and an unused resource,” Mr. Astrove said. The point, she and other urban fruit foragers say, is to keep food from going to waste. Ms. Callahan, who works for the Carter Center and lived in Africa for eight years, has seen true hunger and cannot bear to watch food rot.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/15/us/15forage.html?_r=2

SUPPORT LOCAL HONEY FROM PRODUCERS YOU TRUST

"A third or more of all the honey consumed in the U.S. is likely to have been smuggled in from China and may be tainted with illegal antibiotics + heavy metals."

http://www.grist.org/food-safety/2011-08-18-honey-laundering-tainted-counterfeit-from-china-in-US

Gandhi's Top 10 Fundamentals for Changing the World. LOVE.

http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2011/08/31/gandhi/

L❤VE RIVER COTTAGE

Hugh has a book coming out dedicated to VEG! It's out in the UK- hopefully soon in the US. There's a sign up notification on Amazon, but I'll let you know too. :) Looking forward... http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1408812126

2011-09-04T11:32:00.000-04:00

"You don't have a soul. You are a soul. You have a body." -C.S. Lewis

Tracy Anderson Rebounder Workout + Jumpsport Rebounder Review

2011-09-04T11:31:00.000-04:00

I have wanted a rebounder for a VERY long time. Lots of health benefits to boot and easy to do at your own convenience. I waited because the Bellicon, that was at the top of my list are quite pricey (but quiet- bands vs springs)... and I wanted to test them out before committing, which wasn't easily possible. As luck would have it I found one, the Jump Sport 350i with bands for about 1/2 the price, and it's fantastic! Yeah!

I purchased mine from Costco HERE. It is very quiet and has a great bounce. It's the 2nd to the top of the line 370 model, comes with a 4-in-1 workout DVD, and handle bar great if you need more stability. The DVD is a good place to start and the handle bar is great if you need more stability.

The only downside is the legs do not fold up for easy storage or if space is an issue, and they take a little time to take off/put on (allen wrench- included). Other models available on Amazon.com and Jumpsport.com.

Aside from wanting a rebounder, I have also always wanted to try Tracy Anderson's Trampoline workout- which I can now report is pretty intense. I've always had so much respect for her workouts, but this takes it to a whole new level. Her intensity, the pace of the bouncing and switching it up- she makes it look sooo easy, but it takes a bit of coordination and practice. You will work up a great sweat and feel fantastic. I love that you have access to this workout all the time (as long as you have internet + a rebounder of course)- no excuses.

Here is her workout in full - some nice person put it all together. About 32 minutes.

Links to her workout in the 4 original parts:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vkfj06zTafQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRtHouFbHu4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqdTLShnECA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLejQkeSZRE&feature=related

Happy Happy Rebounding!!!

Greens Plus Chia Energy Chocolate Bar Review

2011-09-04T11:30:00.000-04:00

These bars are really fantastic! Great for on the go, minus all the little chia seeds that get stuck in your teeth. Warning: you need to be around people who love you even when you have bits in your teeth or have some floss. :)

The downside is they are on the high side sugar wise at 21 grams- organic dates being the first ingredient... though it is filled with good stuff that will most likely help alleviate the rush.

Ingredients: Organic dates, organic almond butter, Omega 3 Chia Seeds, organic honey, original Greens Plus powder (GMO-free soy lecithin, Hawaiian Spirulina, organic apple fiber, organic barley grass, organic wheat grass, Japanese chlorella, hydroponic soy sprouts, organic brown rice bran, sprouted barley malt, alfalfa grass, royal jelly, Montana bee pollen, acerola berry juice, natural Vitamin E, licorice root powder, milk thistle seed extract, echinacea root extract, Siberian eleuthero root extract, astragalus root extract, licorice root extract, organic red beet juice, dunaliella salina algae, organic Nova Scotia Dulse, organic ginkgo biloba leaf extract, organic Japanese green tea extract, grape seed and skin extract, organic Swedish bilberry extract), organic quinoa sprout powder, GMO-free soy protein isolate, natural mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E).
Chocolate Coating Ingredients: Barley malt-sweetened chocolate, cocoa butter, GMO-free soy lecithin, vanilla extract.

They don't have that overly heavy or compacted feeling/taste most energy bars do. I'd give them a try if you are looking for another on the go option.

For full details check this link HERE. Purchased at my favourite place iherb.com of course. If you haven't already take advantage of the $5.00 off using code: GOG211. Cheers!

2011-08-07T12:22:00.000-04:00

"Kinds and cabbages go back to compost, but good deeds stay green forever." -Rick DeMarinis

Amazing Amazing Salads with the Best Greens: Two Guys From Woodbridge

2011-08-07T12:21:00.001-04:00

Lovely greens from The Two Guys From Woodbridge.

Sunflower Sprouts

Micro Beets

Mesclun Mix

Micro Máche

Amazing Salad

These Two Guys From Woodbridge have the best stuff. Seriously. I am addicted to their delicious goodness. Check out the FRESNESS! They have a great variety- changes all the time. I love it all but am currently so in love with the micro máche! It's so light and fluffy and full of vitamins.

I make this amazing salad almost daily if I can. It changes a little depending on ingredients available, but here is the latest version if you want to try it...

Variety of greens
Sauté chopped: Onion, Portobello Mushroom, Zucchini and Green Beans
Add 2 beat eggs to the mix > scrambled veggie egg mix
Cooked chickpeas or Cannellini beans
Chopped Olives

YUM!

Natural Chocolate Mylk Sugar Free Recipe

2011-08-07T12:20:00.000-04:00

This chocolate mylk recipe won't spike your blood sugar.
Plus it's natural, delicious and simple to make.

Raw Cashews- handful
Raw Brazil nuts- smaller handful
Spring Water
Heaping tablespoon Raw Cacao Powder
Chocolate Liquid Stevia - 1 dropper

Blend all together in Vitamix or high speed blender.

Enjoy!

Cat Mom Hugs + Snuggles Baby Kitten

2011-06-01T19:12:00.002-04:00

In case you haven't seen this... DO! :) It's the sweetest. ❤

2011-05-31T18:24:00.001-04:00

"My day begins and ends with gratitude and joy." -Louise L. Hay

Quinoa Salad Delight

2011-05-31T18:23:00.002-04:00

This salad is super easy and packed with delicious nutrition. I crave it!

Mix of red and white quinoa
Chickpeas (courtesy of this amazing pressure cooker)
Chia Seeds
Chopped Cucumber
Olives

Aqua Globes; Easy Plant Watering

2011-05-31T18:22:00.001-04:00

Whilst away these Aqua Globes work wonders keeping the house greenery alive and well. They're quite pretty as well. Just make sure the soil is moist before using them (ensures timed watering) as dry soil releases air bubbles and the globes release water. Easy breezy. You and your plants will be very happy. :)

Urban BeeKeeping in Hong Kong

2011-05-31T18:21:00.006-04:00

HK Honey is an organization of Hong Kong beekeepers, artists & designers who aim to communicate the value of bees to the human food chain & the benefits of locally produced honey. With a network of bee farms and a design studio, Michael and HK Honey harvest local honey & design products and services relating to urban beekeeping. This video is part of Nokia's promotional campaign... you'll enjoy- it's beautiful!!!

2011-05-22T18:10:00.000-04:00

"There is just one life for each of us: our own." -Euripides

Pressure Cooking

2011-05-22T18:09:00.001-04:00

Fagor Futuro Pressure Cooker

I realized the posts are scarce of late- haven't had much time lately, but I hope everyone is doing well. :) One thing that has helped me save some time is this wonderful pressure cooker by Fagor. I did a lot of research and think I made a really good choice. It's soooo easy to use and the organic vegetable broth I always make now takes about 30 minutes tops vs the 3 hours the old school way. WOW! I've also used for cooking chickpeas and making a hearty brown rice risotto- all quick and delicious.

I also highly recommend you get this book, Great Vegetarian Cooking Under Pressure, by Lorna J Sass, who apparently is an expert on pressure cooking. She has quite a few books- and not just for those who eat a vegetarian diet. Have fun! And more soon!

2011-05-04T19:01:00.000-04:00

"It's not about denial. I'm just selective about the reality I accept." -Bill Watterson (Calvin and Hobbes)

50 Ways to Cope with Stress

2011-05-04T19:00:00.006-04:00

Queen of The Sun: What Are the Bees Telling Us?

2011-05-04T18:59:00.000-04:00

Looks fantastic! Check HERE to find a screening near you.

60 Minutes: The Fight Against Counterfeit Drugs

2011-05-04T18:58:00.001-04:00

If you didn't see this, please watch. Yet another reason why you want to get healthy and avoid prescription drugs. Yikes!

There is a new front in the war on drugs, and it's not the kind of drugs you might think. We're not talking about cocaine, heroin or methamphetamines. This is about drugs that could wind up in your medicine cabinet: counterfeit prescription drugs, made with cheaper - sometimes even dangerous - ingredients such as highway paint, floor wax, and boric acid.

Criminal counterfeiters will go to any length to evade detection. We found a shadowy network of criminals with made-up names, constantly changing locations and lots and lots of money: an estimated $75 billion a year.

"60 Minutes" and CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta got the chance to observe a surprise early morning raid in Lima, Peru. Some 200 police in riot gear stormed an indoor market. Their target: counterfeit prescription drugs. And they found them everywhere.

Full transcript HERE.

2011-03-13T13:11:00.000-04:00

"If nobody pushed or pulled us, we would be perfect circles instead of stars." -Susan Obrant

Gluten Free Low Glycemic Chocolate Brownie Cake Goodness Recipe

2011-03-13T13:08:00.006-04:00

Unbelievably delicious and dare I say nutritious?

Another gluten free blog that delights my taste buds is Elana's Pantry. If you haven't already, please check it out for some amazing inspiration. Her stuff tends to lean more on the healthy side too. Love that she uses almond flour for most of her recipes.

My mouth was watering over her Black and White Cake. I first made it as written (but opted for the black and black version) and wanted to see if I could make an even lower glycemic version. The semi sweet chocolate chips I use though delicious are definitely not low in sugar. Scheesch! You'll be happy to hear I did it... successfully! And have since made a couple more versions. Here's the recipe:

1/2 Cup Coconut Milk (I've used both canned [low fat] as well as one I make [HERE]).
3/4 Cup Raw Cacao
3/4 Cup Low Glycemic sweetener ( Last time I used Xylitol, but have also used 1/2 cup Xyiltol + 1/4 cup Palm Sugar [same as Coconut Sweetener])
2 Eggs
1 1/2 Cup Almond Flour (I used unblanched almond meal- ie finely ground up almonds with the "skins")
1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt
1/2 Teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 Cup Dark Chocolate Chips (Optional. These are not low glycemic, but if you opt to use the amount is minimal. Check the ingredients. Calculate.)
>> Last time I also added in 1 Tablespoon Chia Seeds and used some finely ground up Brazil nuts (1/4 cup) in place of some of the Almond Flour.

Mix coconut milk, cacao, and sweeter till blended well. Add eggs and mix well. Add in the almond flour, sea salt and baking soda. For all "mixing and blending" I use a simple wooden spoon.

Coat your 8 x 8 pan lightly with an oil (I use spray olive oil- other options coconut oil or butter)
Pour in mixture.
Add the chocolate chips to top if desired.
Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 25-30 minutes (If you add 1 TBSP Chia Seeds you will bake for approx 30-35 minutes).
Try not to eat it all at once. :)

Btw... I should mention that Elana talks about the importance of using blanched almond flour, but I have always used almond meal and never had any problems. Tastes rather delicious. I am not saying she is wrong-- I just want you to know that I've tried it many times in different recipes and well you have another option. I couldn't find a strict almond flour. In fact, I've even made my own almond meal myself in the blender (raw almonds + blend till as fine as possible). Have fun!

Make Your Own Coconut Milk

2011-03-13T13:07:00.001-04:00

(Coconut Shavings A Soakin)

Yes this is possible. It's super easy too. No machete's involved either. :)

Take 1.5 cups of coconut shavings.
Soak in 3 cups of water for about an hour.
Blend in a high speed blender.
Use a fine mesh strainer and strain out coconut bits.
Viola! Coconut milk!

It won't be super sweet, and it's not as thick as the stuff from the can, but it works for me. Great to use in recipes as well and this way you don't have to use the canned stuff. Another option.

Ants: Nature's Secret Power Featuring- Giant Ant Hill Excavated

2011-03-13T13:06:00.002-04:00

This is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G-!-!-!

I believe this segment is part of the episode below. I haven't watched it yet, but after you see the above you might be intrigued to know more. Cheers!

Check These Links

2011-03-13T13:05:00.002-04:00

Gorgeous Image found HERE

He Keeps Ancient Apples Fresh and Crisp

Love this. What technique and skill. Hope it doesn't get lost and we get more new old varieties. :)

Paris Catacombs

Awesome!

The Ocean National Geographic

The issues. The images. Take a look.

How "The Pill" Can Harm Your Future Child's Health
More on the pill and your gut. Yeeks.

Design Sponge DIY Project:Katie's Glass-Jar Moroccan Lanterns
Do you save glass jars? Super cute idea and can't wait to make some for my beeswax candles.

2011-03-07T22:42:00.002-05:00

"A true critic ought to dwell rather upon excellencies than imperfections." - Joseph Addison

60 Minutes: A Rare View of Polar Bears

2011-03-07T22:41:00.001-05:00

Bob Simon reports on the latest "spy-cam" techniques used by wildlife filmmakers to show animals - in this case, polar bears - up-close and in a way audiences have never seen them before.

I'm such a sucker for this kind of stuff...
Nature and spy cams? Oh my!
Fantastic footage!

New York City School Lunches Ahead of the Curve

2011-03-07T22:40:00.000-05:00

Making progress. Yah New York!

See related post HERE.

2011-02-19T18:05:00.000-05:00

"That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well." -Abraham Lincoln

Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis DVDs Review

2011-02-19T18:04:00.005-05:00

Tracy Anderson's latest work out and sculpting series, Metamorphosis is a good series (more on this below). However, the way it is advertised- "customized for you and your body type" is very misleading as each work out offered: omnicentric, hipcentric, abcentric, and glutecentric are EXACTLY the same.

Direct From Tracy Anderson Method confirming this:

"All of the Metamorphosis programs include the same arm and abs as well as targeting the specific body types. They also include the same 30 minute dance cardio workout and meal plan."

I am not saying the one work out provided will not work for all body types- I am sure they will, but if you are thinking of purchasing more than one "body type" to have access to different "moves"- DO NOT.

That aside, which was kind of a bummer... here's the low down:

This series is bright and light (filmed during the day vs night) and Tracy is happy and smiling throughout. It's easy to watch and that radiance is inviting.

What's included:

- Dance Cardio Workout- 30 minutes (1 DVD)
- Transform Workout 1, 2 and 3- 30 minutes (3 DVD's which you switch up every 10 days for a total of 90 days)
- Dynamic Eating Plan

Similar to Tracy's Perfect Design Series, you have the options to select the full audio mix, music only or Tracy's voice only. Great if you want to listen to your own music, etc.

"Learn to love to sweat." -Tracy Anderson

The 30 Minute Dance Cardio is wonderful! It's easy to follow, learn and you're able to work up a sweat quickly. There are no complicated routines. Lots of jumping around. I love that the workout is a continuous approximate 30 minutes- allowing you to keep going vs stopping your work out rewinding and starting up again as in some of her past cardio workout DVDs.

The video(s) are digitally enhanced- almost as if Tracy was dancing in front of a green screen and they added the background later. You can see from the two pictures above the background is different and it moves (though not distracting) and changes throughout as the 30 minutes go by. It gives added depth, alleviating "boredom" (if you will) and enhancing continuous movement.

The transform work out is a quick 30 minutes- most focusing on the legs while in the plank position therefore working the rest of the body as well. If you have been doing the Mat DVD or the Perfect Design Series I, II, III you might be surprised at how fast this one goes by. You might also be disappointed that there is no warm up and the arms (free + with weights), standing and mat abs are all done in about 10 minutes. I like the ab (on mat) series, but it's also fast. No cool down either. I find myself still switching out and working the first Mat DVD for warming up and cooling down, extra arms and standing abs and PDS series for extra abs.

All in all it's a good addition. Together they are an hour and I think her goal was to jam pack it to fit in most people's lifestyle. It's easier to carve out an hour vs an hour and a half whilst still giving her audience a result it desires. If you have the other work out DVD's you will most likely want to switch them up still but for beginners and even the novices you will still work up a sweat.

Lastly, about the Dynamic Eating Plan... I read it, but am not following it. I don't need help losing weight and I think I eat pretty damn good and have been into health and eating whole nutritious foods for many years now (if you read this blog regularly you probably already got that :)). I am not saying you shouldn't follow it. But if this is your first realm into this sort of thing- you might find the drastic caloric reduction to be quite shocking at first. In her "nutrient boost weeks" you are basically doing a form of a juice/pureed diet- ie no chewing is really involved. I would suggest if anything start with working out regularly and see what you can do and how you feel. You might have those moments when your stomach is growling at you but if you don't feel faint, etc keep going. The great thing is you can always adjust. Listen to your body and have fun! You're going to feel great!

Tracy Anderson's Top Five Body Sculpting Exercises

2011-02-19T18:03:00.002-05:00

(Tracy Anderson + Nicole Richie)

For some reason the video won't embed properly but if you click HERE you can view Tracy Anderson's Top Five Body Sculpting Exercises.

Mix it up!

A Greater Mission

2011-02-19T18:02:00.000-05:00

Farmers and Veterans helping each other.

As one veteran puts it... "creating vs destroying".

So cool!

Dunton Hot Springs

2011-02-19T18:01:00.001-05:00

So Idyllic!

Dunton Hot Springs is a small and exclusive resort nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies.

This perfectly restored ghost town thrives on contradictions; hand-hewn log cabins exquisitely furnished, a life-worn saloon serving food of startling quality, lung torturing trails followed by pampering massages, sensuous hot springs beneath shimmering snow banks. Free of cell phones, this romantic old mining town still provides high speed wireless internet access and video conferencing to the comforting sound of a tumbling waterfall.

Contradictions indeed; gentle tranquility or a host of breathtaking adventures. Dunton can steer you to adventures you’ve only dreamed of. Sturdy horses to penetrate the endless wilderness, helicopter skiing in a silent world of billowing powder, mountain biking, snow shoeing, hiking, from gentle to demanding, camping, fly fishing, river rafting, kayaking, the list is endless. Or perhaps more contemplative days exploring North America’s most evocative archaeological sites, all within a short drive of the resort.

Dunton’s chef painstakingly sources local organic foods; lamb from meadows that spawn fields of boletus and chanterelles, tree-ripe fruit and plump vegetables from our own farm and vineyard. And the wines to match, replete with first growth Bordeaux, California classics, super Tuscans and lusty Aussie favorites.

Check These Links

2011-02-19T18:00:00.001-05:00

Some of these are a little old. I meant to post earlier... alas they are still relevant. :)

NEW DIETARY ADVICE FROM GOVERNMENT: JUST EAT LESS

The latest nutrition guidelines released Monday by the federal government reiterate much of the advice from previous years: eat less salt and saturated fats, eat more fruits and vegetables and whole grains. But there is a startling difference. This time, the government suggests that Americans also just eat less.

EDIBLE BUSINESS TRIP: JOAN GUSSOW CALL US MONKS, PLUGS BROOKLYN AND KICKS OFF THE EDIBLE INSTITUTE
:)

“I feel the need to confess that I don’t quite feel as if I belong here,” Gussow said. “I fail as a foodie…What I am, as I have called myself for years, is a foodist. That is, I’m a fan of food, especially locally produced food. I am perfectly content to eat in the most simply prepared way what comes off my land and off the farms of the people from whom I get my animal and grain products. I do not regularly seek out new food experiences—although I have had some spectacular ones. But for most of my eating I simply relish the repetitive cycle of the seasons that brings me things like daily asparagus in the spring.”

THE ORGANIC ELITE SURRENDERS TO MONSANTO: WHAT NOW?

UGH! In the wake of a 12-year battle to keep Monsanto's Genetically Engineered (GE) crops from contaminating the nation's 25,000 organic farms and ranches, America's organic consumers and producers are facing betrayal. A self-appointed cabal of the Organic Elite, spearheaded by Whole Foods Market, Organic Valley, and Stonyfield Farm, has decided it's time to surrender to Monsanto. Top executives from these companies have publicly admitted that they no longer oppose the mass commercialization of GE crops, such as Monsanto's controversial Roundup Ready alfalfa, and are prepared to sit down and cut a deal for "coexistence" with Monsanto and USDA biotech cheerleader Tom Vilsack.

TELL THE EPA: BAN THE PESTICIDE THAT'S KILLING BEES
Please

FRANK LIPMAN FOOT MASSAGE
Yum!

GRIST DONT DRINK DIET SODA
In case you are still drinking diet soda?

Brene Brown: The Power of Vulnerability

2011-01-23T14:28:00.001-05:00

Wow Wow Wow!

From Ted: Brene Brown studies human connection -- our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk at TEDxHouston, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity. A talk to share.

Hope you watch and share. ❤ Happy Sunday!

2011-01-22T15:01:00.001-05:00

"Wanting something is not enough. You must hunger for it. " -Les Brown

A Healthier + Dangerously Delicious Rice Crispy Treat Recipe

2011-01-22T15:00:00.003-05:00

Okay people... these are REALLY TRULY dangerously delicious. So much so you may think you made enough to share with your loves, but then you come to find that you ate them all and are dying from a sugar induced comma once they find you. :) So just FYI... you've been warned! Oh and yes however sadly, but honestly... it's in everyone's best to agree that these babies are not low glycemic.

Ingredients:
5-6 cups of organic brown puffed rice
(make sure it is just puffed rice- no sugars, additives, etc)
2/3 cups honey
2/3 cups almond butter
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Optional: nuts, coconut shavings, chocolate chips.

Directions: Take all the ingredients and warm together in a pan on low. Mix constantly till blended. I dump approximately 1/2 to 3/4 of the puffed rice (approx 3 cups) into an 8 x 8 glass pan. Then I add the wet ingredients and mix around with a spoon. Keep adding the puffed rice and mixing till gone.

It will be sticky, but you want to spread the mixture out as much as possible and I found this is the easiest way without getting your fingers all gooped up. I also plan on experimenting with other "sugar" alternatives such as xyiltol (not sure how it will blend), yacon syrup (prob the winner), brown rice syrup, etc to help alleviate the rush. Just keep the sugar load in mind. I haven't had a sugar rush like this in years.

Enjoy!!!

Time Lapse NYC Snow Blizzard

2011-01-22T14:58:00.001-05:00

Time Lapse NYC Snow Blizzard from K Taro Hashimura on Vimeo.

Check it out for the full feeling of snow (+ it's beauty) minus the slush.

:)

Do Nothing For 2 Minutes

2011-01-22T14:57:00.002-05:00

We now need reminders to take a break from being plugged in. This one is serious about it... it will know if you don't take 2 minutes and you will get a big FAIL. haha! Might want to bookmark. Check it out HERE.

2011-01-19T20:40:00.001-05:00

"We fail to realize that mastery is not about perfection. It's about a process, a journey. The master is the one who stays on the path day after day, year after year. The master is the one who is willing to try, and fail, and try again, for as long as he or she lives." -George Leonard

Yummy Brown Rice Gluten Free Pasta Recipe

2011-01-19T20:39:00.001-05:00

This is a dish I go to regularly. It's easy, quick, healthy and super delicious! I know I say that a lot, but every time I do - it's true. Truly! :) One super good thing about this recipe aside from the obvious is there are no cooked oils. Yah!

INGREDIENTS:
Brown Rice Pasta (Mine is from Trader Joes. Find one that you like. Some are not as taste-y)
Fresh Basil (from Two Guys From Woodbridge)
Kalamata Olives (I love olives and use 12 per person)
Garlic Cloves (I like garlic and use 3 cloves per person)
Sea Salt to taste
Olive Oil (1 teaspoon per person)

DIRECTIONS:
Boil the brown rice pasta. In a blender mix together the garlic cloves, basil and olives. Once the pasta is ready add the mix to it and toss. Add a teaspoon of olive oil. Salt to taste.

Enjoy!!!

Goddess Alexandra on How She Makes A Dance Workout

2011-01-19T20:38:00.001-05:00

My favourite goddess, Alexandra, showing us how she gets into her groove. Love the authenticity and openness about her practice. Awesome!

Check out Alexandra's play-list HERE.

Great alternative to your Tracy Anderson cardio workouts- it's really just about moving.
Enjoy your flow!

2011-01-16T11:49:00.001-05:00

"Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons." -Ruth Ann Schabacker

The Best Zucchini Bread Ever- Now Gluten Free!

2011-01-16T11:48:00.000-05:00

(Yep- this baby is GLUTEN FREE)

A while back I posted on the Best Zucchini Bread Ever- and now I am happy to report I made a version just as delicious, healthy, lower on the glycemic load- that is also gluten free! This recipe is also without Xanthum and/or Guar Gum, which is called for in many gluten free recipes. I found it to give me some odd headaches and I don't think it's necessary.

2/3 Cups Butter
1 2/3 Cups Apple Sauce
1 Cup Sugar (this time I used a mix of Palm Sugar and Xyiltol)
4 Eggs
2/3 Cup Spring Water
3 1/3 Cup "Flour" (this time I used a mix of GF: teff and brown rice flour)
2 Teaspoon Baking Soda
1 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt
1 Table Spoon Ground Cinnamon
1 Teaspoon Nutmeg
5 Cups Shredded Zucchini
2-4 Cups Chocolate Chips and/or Nuts (optional- this time I skipped the choc chips + nuts)

The original recipe also called for 1/2 Teaspoon Baking Powder, but I eliminated due to it's "aluminum" content and it's absence was not noticeable.

Preheat over to 350 degrees. Butter (grease) 4 loaf pans (shorter loaves and cooked through nicely). Mix all ingredients together except for the shredded zucchini and optional chocolate chips with a hand mixer. Once well mixed add in zucchini and chocolate chips if desired. Shake the loaf pan to even out the mixture.

Bake for 60- 70 minutes. I like the tops to be golden brown and a little crispy. Let cool for about 30 minutes to an hour.

p.s. I am not 100% but I believe it's due to the apple sauce in lieu of sugar... this stuff doesn't last that long (a week tops) before the inner part starts to get a little mushy. Unless you are planning on eating it all up or giving some away don't double the batch. Most likely this won't happen because it is super yummy, but wanted to give you a heads up. :)

Living In A Gluten Free World

2011-01-16T11:47:00.001-05:00

I mentioned briefly in a previous post, that I have been for sometime eating a diet sans gluten. At the present time I have been given a green light that it's okay now, but unless I'm out and about- I have been and most likely will continue to not eat it (especially since I am aware of ways to eat gluten free).

Most- over indulge on grains and puffed things. You know that saying... "you are what you eat"? Breads, pastas, etc are taste-bud-amazing, but they are not really good for the body- ie hard to digest, increased glycemic load, lack of nutrition, processed, etc. Even if you have not been "diagnosed" with a gluten allergy- you might have one. Try taking it out of your diet and see how you feel.

Me thinks it would be safe to say that the majority of people who eat a gluten free diet do not choose to do so, but rather it's because they suffer from Celiac Disease. And after not being able to eat so many things I can see how it must be fun to eat all these taste-y foods again. I experienced the same thing while doing the raw diet. However, same as the raw diet I found them to be limiting, because they each have one goal: to be gluten free and to be raw. It could be improved by also trying to incorporate organic, local, low glycemic, natural, etc. I know not everyone has the same agenda, but this is mine. So I used some of what I already knew and mixed it with some of these new things.

As someone who eats a vegetarian diet, is more health conscious in terms of organic, local, glycemic load, doesn't eat (or is rather strict about) dairy (cheese + milk), and one that for some time was not eating corn- it was at times challenging. It's challenging in NYC just eating a vegetarian diet sometimes. :)

Another thing to note is many gluten free recipes call for Xanthum Gum and Guar Gum. Both of these ingredients help to "bind" ingredients together, but I found that they give me odd headaches. For a while I didn't know what it was. But I kept feeling a little off and notice a big difference when I don't have them. Funnily enough, Gluten Free Girl also noticed this (from Jan 5th FB post): "I have to say that I have been nearly 2 weeks without eating anything with xanthum gum or guar gum in it and I have not felt this good in 18 months. Hm."

Lastly, even though I have fun playing around with these recipes (I will be sharing with you)... please remember all the bread, cookies, etc are still carb heavy (depends on the type of "flour" but you get what I mean). Even though they are gluten free, you'll still feel better eating more veggies, greens and fruit. Cheers!

P.S. During my quest for I utilized many blogs and books for reference and ideas and have listed a few of them below. Many do not have the same "health" agenda, but use them as a starting point and source of inspiration and adapt them to your needs.

Gluten Free Girl and the Chef
I LOVE her blog. Filled with many recipes, tips, and ideas. Would refer often. I made her gluten free chocolate chip cookies. Next time I will make with them without xanthum/guar gum. They have a book out too, which I have been trying to get my hands on. Cute video of them on amazon on that link too. Check it out.

Cooking for Isaiah by Silvana Nardone
Lots of treats. There is a fairly good sized section re: meat/fish. Silvana's son, Isaiah has a gluten and dairy allergy.

Clean Start by Terry Walters
This is not a "gluten free" book but there are many ideas and gluten free recipes in here. Her first book was Clean Food which I loved and made some Sweet Potato, Corn and Kale Chowder from.

Check These Links

2011-01-16T11:46:00.000-05:00

WHY ECO JEANS ARE BECOMING HARDER TO SPOT
Interesting...

WILDLY ABRASIVE
Though I think dry brushing has wonderful benefits and partake in the ritual regularly myself... you don't really want your toxins to come out via your skin. It's great that they can, but the goal is to have strong/healthy organs (ie especially your liver, gallbladder and kidneys) that can stay ahead of your diet and environment.

CHOCOLATE LOVERS GET READY FOR ST. LUCIA
A new boutique resort on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, Hotel Chocolat, is opening soon that will offer guests the full chocolate making experience, including taking part in the cocoa harvest and learning about the company's program to benefit local farmers.

WHY CETAPHIL ISN'T DOING YOUR SKIN ANY GOOD
A long time ago... I used to use this stuff. So glad I don't anymore.

LA BUSES NOW RUN ON ALTERNATIVE FUEL
20 years in the making and they finally did it. Now they just need to get more people to ride them.

MAKE YOUR OWN LIP BALM
Awesome post from Mountain Rose herbs on how to make your own. The Peppermint Cocoa Lip Balm is perfect.

Make Your Own Rice Milk Recipe

2011-01-16T11:45:00.001-05:00

I shared this awesome article on why you should make your own rice milk HERE and recently tried out the recipe they shared. It's easy! Takes time, but it's basically cooking rice for 3 hours. What's so great about it... aside from not supporting Monsanto- is that it is true and pure rice milk. No weird ingredients. I followed their instructions below. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS + SUPPLIES:
1 cup uncooked organic long grain brown rice
8 cups water for cooking
More water for diluting
1 teaspoon salt
Glass mason jars for storage
A Blender
Mesh strainer

DIRECTIONS:
Thoroughly wash the rice.
Put 8 cups of water in a big pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Pour in the rice.
Cover the pot and lower the heat to let the water simmer.
Cook for 3 hours.

You will end up with something that looks a bit like a soupy rice pudding. Add the salt.

In batches, fill your blender halfway with the rice mixture and halfway with water. Blend until very smooth. Strain twice (I strained mine once) through a fine mesh strainer into a mason jar. Continue on with the rest of the milk until you’re finished, filling jars and screwing the lids on good and tight.

Even with the extra water, the homemade rice milk ends up thicker than the product you might be used to if you’ve always purchased Rice Dream Rice Milk. It’s more like rice cream! You may want to dilute it further at the time of serving it. Just add a bit more water until it’s the desired consistency.

2011-01-12T20:05:00.002-05:00

"You don’t get to choose how you’re going to die. Or when. But you can decide how you’re going to live now." -Joan Baez

A Philosopher's Notes Volume I Review

2011-01-12T20:04:00.018-05:00

Most of you already know about the amazingly gifted Brian Johnson and his PhilosopherNotes. Now he has a new book full of goodness! Get it HERE! It's the best of the best rolled into one. You won't be disappointed. :) I LOVE it!

The Dark Side of the Lens

2011-01-12T20:03:00.001-05:00

Tres' Magnificent!
Hope you take the time to check it out.
I love + live for this kind of stuff. :)

Healthy Breakfast Thoughts + Ideas

2011-01-12T20:02:00.000-05:00

(Apples + Raw Almond Butter + Cinnamon)

After I drink as much water as possible, have my probiotics- I have fruit of some sort. For a little bit it was berries and yogurt, and lately it is berries and pears, or an apple and almond butter with cinnamon. In the past it was green smoothies or green juices until after 5 or so years doing that every morning of every day I needed to change it up. Have fun mixing it up.

I like to eat lightest to heaviest throughout the day. Fruit is light and delicious, and your body is just waking up so go easy on it. You don't want to eat fruit after a heavy meal, which gives it the opportunity to ferment on top of the other food - hence poor digestion.

Fruit is the quickest to exit the digestive track and should be eaten alone (especially in the case of melons which are the quickest of all fruits). It can be out of the stomach in less than a half hour. One thing about too much fruit is the whole raising your blood sugar glycemic load. Berries (the darker the better- ie blueberries vs strawberries) out of all the fruits have the least amount of sugar in them. Next time you eat one you'll notice they are not that sweet. The reason you can eat apples with almond butter (fruit and protein generally do not mix) is because apples are full of pectin which keeps them around longer in the stomach. The almond butter also slows down the absorption of sugar into the blood stream making it another great option. Granny Smith apples and other "sour" varieties have less impact on your glycemic load as well.

Aside from fruit in the morning- a good general rule is to eat protein, protein and carb meals for dinner. This ensures steady blood sugar levels throughout the day and then at night when you eat carbs your body will release seratonin which prompts a good night's rest.

If you have time about a half hour after your fruit meal, have a pouched egg. The protein will curb your hunger.

I know sometimes that can get boring and say you are an oatmeal person. Try quinoa in a nut mylk (this is brazil nut) with cinnamon. It's really taste-y, healthy and gluten free. Maybe you want to skip the fruit and just want eggs. Go for it.

There are lots of options out there. Have fun figuring out what works best for you.

Are You Drinking Enough WATER?

2011-01-12T20:01:00.004-05:00

Are you drinking enough water? Take your weight (lbs) and divide in half which equals the approximate amount of water you need in ounces per day. If you are very active or in extreme weather you need more.

I start my day with approximately 32 ounces depending on how soon I have to be out the door. I try to start out with more than 1/2 of what I need, because as the day progresses I have been guilty of forgetting. Since it's cold now, I drink warm water and squeeze in a combo of a grapefruit, lemon and/or orange.

Another thing to know... it's best if you do not drink water or liquids with meals. I know it's common to help assist getting thy food down the hatch, but chew your food properly and you won't need liquid assistance. Plus, you will be digesting your food better not only because you chewed it, but because liquid dilutes what little digestive enzymes you have left. The rule of thumb is to not drink water 2 hours after a meal and to drink it 1/2 hour before a meal.

Happy hydration... and digestion! :)

60 Minutes: Bad Medicine: The Glaxo Case

2011-01-12T20:00:00.003-05:00

In case you missed this...
especially if you are dependent on prescription drugs- YIKES!

2011-01-04T22:11:00.001-05:00

"We have it in our power to to begin the world over again." -Thomas Paine

A Daily Dose of Sanity

2011-01-04T22:11:00.000-05:00

I found this book, A Daily Dose of Sanity by Alan Cohen, last year and patiently waited till the New Year to really start it. It's has wonderful bits of fantastic goodness for every day of the year. You can start it at any time of course, and I wanted to share before this year really starts flashing by! Enjoy!

Penelope

2011-01-04T22:10:00.000-05:00

Recently had the pleasure of watching Penelope (it's on instant Netflix streaming) and I have to recommend you check it out. Such a cute film and wonderful message.

Eating + Updating

2011-01-04T22:09:00.001-05:00

(blueberries + pears. pretty + delicious)

It very well may be of no interest to anyone in regards to what I am eating (it isn't of that much interest to me), but I feel somewhat compelled to share this aspect since I write about food, share recipes and not so long ago I was telling you I was eating gobs of yogurt and berries. Well, you can laugh because that is old news! I'm not saying you shouldn't, but that only worked for me for so long.

With all this experimenting, I think I know pretty much what works best for me. Even though I was hoping other things would work (ie cheese which I love)- it doesn't. Your body will let you know. And perhaps it might work for you? Here's a mini list below of the latest and greatest- very simple. And of course all organic and local if possible.

- Water
- Lots of fruit (esp berries) and veggies (more on the veggies vs fruit)
- Greens
- Uncooked oils
- Good fats: nuts and avocados, olive oil, coconut oil- in limited amounts.
- Eggs
- Brown Rice
- Quinoa
- Dark Chocolate

BTW... in regards to:

Water Kefir
Many of you already know, I am no longer making or selling kefir. Though I think it has some benefits, it became difficult being on the go. Plus, if you take or want to add any probiotic to your diet the best is via supplementation. I highly suggest: Ultra Flora Plus DF by Metagenics along with Arabinogalactans by Pure Encapsulations- daily. That is really all you need.

If you are still interested in purchasing kefir please visit: Marilyn the Kefir Lady. I did receive an email, which I forgot about till now (apologies!) about straining kefir with metal... is this bad? I honestly didn't have any trouble with this (my strainers are stainless steel). The little bit they might touch metal - if that does harm to them do you want them in your body?

Dairy
Twas sometime after my post about eating berries with yogurt in the am, but I continually find that dairy doesn't really agree with me so I decided to cut it all out of my regular circuit for a bit and haven't really gone back to it. I love cheese and find ice cream delicious... but even still I really don't crave it at all. I do use butter. I might add some yogurt back in eventually and I am sure I will indulge in cheese and ice cream, but it won't be the same.

Gluten
I was off of Gluten for approximately 4-6 months. I can't totally recall now because the time has been flying but it's been a while. My doc recently gave me the green light that it's ok for me to have, but I have and believe I will continue to eat gluten free as much as possible. The brown rice pasta dishes I enjoy are so delicious I don't feel like I am missing out.

In any case I have some amazing recipes to share with you and more on this. Stay Tuned!

Edward Elgar

2011-01-04T22:08:00.001-05:00

"This song will fill 5 minutes of your life with perfection. Masterful." -Noah Sabich

2011-01-01T13:11:00.004-05:00

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." -Marcel Proust

Inspiration... Always.

2011-01-01T13:11:00.003-05:00

Happy Two Zero One One!

:)

2010-12-30T15:09:00.000-05:00

"The greatest tragedy is to have the experience and miss the meaning." -Unknown

It's almost 2011!

2010-12-30T15:08:00.003-05:00

As we look ahead to 2011 (how fast time flies!) I hope you have enjoyed every moment... the good, bad, beautiful, ugly and the glorious of 2010 and times past, in the present, and that you look forward to the future ahead. There is a rhyme, reason and meaning in all and you just have to keep faith and carry on. It all makes sense precisely when it's suppose to. :)

"IN LIFE WE DO THINGS. SOME WE WISH WE HAD NEVER DONE. SOME WE WISH WE COULD REPLAY A MILLION TIMES IN OUR HEADS. BUT THEY ALL MAKE US WHO WE ARE, AND IN THE END THEY SHAPE EVERY DETAIL ABOUT US. IF WE WERE TO REVERSE ANY OF THEM WE WOULDN'T BE THE PERSON WE ARE. SO JUST LIVE. MAKE MISTAKES, HAVE WONDERFUL MEMORIES, BUT NEVER EVER SECOND GUESS WHO YOU ARE, WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY WHERE IT IS YOU'RE GOING." -UNKNOWN

Thanks to you my readers for your inspiration and sticking around while I continually popped off to have too much fun. :) Wishing you and yours an exceptionally wonderful and fun 2011. Make it count. xx

Inspiration... Whitepod.

2010-12-30T15:07:00.000-05:00

Nestled in the charming village of Les Cerniers, surrounded by a blanket of glistening white snow and panoramic mountain views, Whitepod offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Swiss Alps !

This quick video gives you a good glimpse of it all... the un-romanticized- it's freezing and your fingers will get very cold unzipping. Also, good to note- it appears that the toilet is not in a separate room.

Another view above... It looks tranquil, luxurious and very comfy given the circumstances. I love that it is designed to be in harmony with it's environment. Ah beauty!

p.s. Make sure you check out their site. They have a fantastic very romanticized video that makes everything look even more cozy.

Two Guys From Woodbridge

2010-12-30T15:06:00.001-05:00

(Photo: Marilynn K. Yee/ NYT)

Unless you are an expert who loves to and can grow your own food, the next best thing is to get your greens locally from an expert who knows what they are doing. I'd like to intro: Two Guys From Woodbridge. Once I started enjoying their green offerings I was hooked and luckily haven't looked back to packaged greens from a grocery (Trader Joes, Whole Foods). In fact, I can't eat the "packaged-I-traveled-1000+ miles-to-get-here" greens anymore. Now they taste funny and I can not believe how long I ate them!

The greens Two Guys From Woodbridge offers is so so good in fact, I will and have traveled there in a snow storm. I have also not eaten greens for a few days to hold out for the good stuff. They grow hydroponically (hence the year round every changing varieties on the East Coast), and it's organic, fresh, local (for NY/East Coast peeps).

Some may balk at the price- each one of those "bouquets" are about $4/each, but I don't need to convince anyone- try them for yourself... I think it's worth it! If you are lucky to be in the city (a la NYC) they are at the Union Square Greenmarket every week on Wednesday and Fridays. Yah!

p.s. two little articles on them I found HERE and HERE.

A previous post HERE.

Man In A Blizzard, Astoria NYC 2010

2010-12-30T15:05:00.000-05:00

NYT: For City Fowl, a Coop to Cluck About

2010-12-30T15:04:00.000-05:00

Straight to the Source

By Tim McKeough

For you urban farmers looking to retain some big-city sophistication, there is a New York-style solution for housing egg-laying birds: the Chicken Co-op ($3,500). Designed by James Ramsey of RAAD Studio in Manhattan, the three-story structure features stacked nesting rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows.

“It’s a Modernist, high-end chicken coop,” Mr. Ramsey said. “It’s like the condo craze of two years ago, except you’re building this luxury condominium for chickens.” Requests from two Manhattan clients led to the idea for the product.

The painted wood and acrylic components of the structure are cut by a computer-driven router, shipped as a flat package, and can be assembled without tools. The finished structure includes four nesting rooms, a sliding tray for cleaning, a third-floor roosting area and a solar-powered fan — features for “discriminating poultry,” Mr. Ramsey said.

Information: (212) 254-5490, chickenco-op.com.

2010-12-26T17:59:00.000-05:00

"And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." -Roald Dahl

Inspiration... Always.

2010-12-26T17:58:00.001-05:00

Quick Meditteranean Bites

2010-12-26T17:57:00.002-05:00

When I want something quick and light- other than a "salad salad" this is perfect. Lightly grilled eggplant, yogurt cheese (occasionally), cucumbers, olives, and hummus. YUM!

More Tracy Anderson: Cardio Workout Review

2010-12-26T17:56:00.004-05:00

Looks like fun, right? It is! Since it's been colder out- I just can't run like I was. This is another great way to work up your heart rate. This image is from cardio work out #2 on her Beginner Dance Cardio DVD. I have a couple of her cardio DVDs and I found most of them not to be hard, but limiting space wise. Plus, she is teaching you from a front view so when they turn, etc it is backwards and I want something quick. In a perfect scenario they will make a video from behind same as when you learn in a dance class. In any case, this one is fantastic for all those reasons: you don't need that much space, it's super easy, and does the trick. There were a couple of videos online I wanted to share - but alas they have been flagged. If they pop up again I will post. Cheers!

2010-11-28T11:57:00.000-05:00

"The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." -Carl Jung

Visionaire’s Cecilia Dean Keeps Chickens + Bees in Red Hook

2010-11-28T11:56:00.001-05:00

I was rather happily surprised to find Visionaire's creator, Cecilia Dean keeping chickens, bees, living in Brooklyn and still working her couture. Ahhhh... a girl not far from my own heart. ❤

Make Your Own Organic Vegetable Broth

2010-11-28T11:55:00.000-05:00

(Homemade Vegetable Broth
Please pardon the pictures- they were shot in low light under a yellowish bulb- hence the cast)

I've longed to make my own vegetable broth and I am happy to report I have now- multiple times. :) It's easier than you think, delicious and so so yummy! I used Alice Water's instructions as my guide.

The secret for good vegetable stock is first sauteing diced onions in butter till golden brown.

Use your favourite veggies. So far I have been using celery, carrots, potatoes,p and garlic. Sea salt (to taste after) and of course enough water to cover your veggies.

Bring to a boil and then turn down to simmer for a few hours. You can either drain the cooked vegetables or eat all together. No longer do you need to choose between the low sodium and regular organic boxed vegetable stock- this is soooo much better. Cheers!

Update: Dangerously Delicious Gluten Free Low Glycemic Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-11-28T11:54:00.002-05:00

I didn't think it would have been possible, but alas I've improved those dangerously delicious gluten free low glycemic cookies- if you can believe it. What's new? A bit of coconut flakes and sliced raw almonds which added the perfect extra bit of... well crunch. I think they should now be called double dangerous. :)