CaliSnowflake

Movin' on up

Tue, 20 May 2008 19:55:41 GMT

I am very sad to say that this will be my last post on this blog as of today. I have tried and tried to find a solution to the problem with people not being able to comment on here who do not have a Spaces site, but there is no way around it. I really wanted to stick with Spaces, being my husband is a Microsoft-ie, but I think it's time to move on. I'm inviting you to check out my new site: http://thefamilyfoodie.blogspot.com/

See you there!!

Anniversary

Sun, 18 May 2008 19:50:22 GMT

We had a night away this weekend for our anniversary and had a great time! We stayed at the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs. We went to the Glenwood Hot Springs which were amazing. If you click on the link you will see just how HUGE they are. There are over 15 different minerals in the springs, and they are natural, coming from the Yampah Spring. Get this - it has a daily flow of 3,500,000 gallons of water! amazing. It felt amazing too. People come here for it's "healing properties" and claim it's like the fountain of youth. One pool was I think 94 degrees, and the therapy pool was about 104 degrees. We felt amazing afterwards - not the normal sluggish feeling you have after a hot tub. Just really awake, and all your joints feel great. Also your skin is really soft! It was fun to have gone and checked it out. We didn't have time to do the vapor caves like we'd hoped, but maybe next time!

The drive on HWY 70 is always so much fun. It was so beautiful. We stopped several times, and took our time on the drive. This morning before we headed back, we stopped for breakfast at the Westside in Vail. yum! I had Eggs Benedict with spinich in them, and Rob had the grits with black pepper and sharp cheddar. so good. we'll definitely stop back there again when we're driving through.

Here's some pictures from our trip! I can't believe we've been married 9 years. yeah!

Health Quiz

Fri, 16 May 2008 19:43:21 GMT

I saw this in Fitness section of our Denver Post this week....an article on what 4 behaviors can add 14 years to your life. I read lots of Health articles and newsletters, but I liked this quiz because it's simple and to the point. It makes you feel like you can actually do some of these things, and it's not overwhelming. Take the quiz and find out how you are doing!

Health Quiz

By The Denver Post

Article Last Updated: 05/11/2008 06:59:47 PM MDT

What four behaviors can add 14 years to your life? Researchers in the United Kingdom started with 20,000 healthy men and women between ages 45 to 79. They scored the participants on their current lifestyle and then turned them loose for a decade or more. During that time, they documented who had died and from what causes. After about 11 years, scientists tested the remaining participants and compared their results with their beginning health scores.

Read the behaviors below, and give yourself one point for each of them you do on a regular basis:

1. I do not smoke and do not have a history of smoking.

2. I get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day, either at work or at home.

3. I drink no more than 1 or 2 alcoholic drinks a day. (One drink is 4-5 ounces of wine, 8-12 ounces of beer, 1 ounce shot of liquor.)

4. I eat 2 to 3 cups of fruits and vegetables a day.

Don't smoke. Be physically active. Drink moderately if you drink at all. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Yeah, yeah, we know all that.

So what? If you practice all four of these behaviors regularly, it could be like adding 14 years to your life when compared with someone who does not practice these habits.

A study by researchers in the United Kingdom of middle-age people found that those who scored zero on the questions are four times as likely to die over an 11-year period (especially of heart disease) as those who score a 4. Those who score a 2 are twice as likely to die as someone who scores a 4.

The combined effect of habits can be significant. In other words, a marathon runner who lives on beer and pretzels probably will have a shorter life — even though he is active — than a walker who has an occasional glass of wine and eats regular meals high in fruits and vegetables. Like mile markers on a 26-mile marathon, every year counts.

The study researchers also adjusted for several variables that can throw off research results — such as dying from old age or getting hit by a car, and reported a strong association between the number of behaviors these folks practiced and their relative risk of dying.

The strongest relationship was seen in deaths related to heart disease and stroke. The participants who smoked, were physically inactive, did not drink moderately and did not eat lots of fruits and vegetables were four times as likely to die (particularly from heart disease) as those who had the opposite habits.

Beluga!

Sat, 10 May 2008 01:53:59 GMT

I woke up today to a little cake just for me for Mother's Day from Rob. :) so sweet. Tomorrow he's taking me to the Colorado Chocolate Festival for my Mother's Day gift. I love it! I'm so excited to check it out.

Dinner tonight proved to be something I've been pursueing all week long. I got a recipe off of the Whole Foods site, only to buy all the ingredients and then find out that no place in the area carries Black Beluga Lentils. After several trips and phone calls, I finally had to order some on-line. I found an Organic Farm that shipped Priority and I ordered three times what I need, so I can make the recipe at least two more times in the future. So the great news is, they came in the mail while everything is still fresh in my fridge - yeah! Here's what we are having tonight, and then below is what I made last night. The salad might seem simple at first, but the crisp, simple, fresh taste of the salad was a great balance to the black lentils.

Black Beluga Lentils with Endive Citrus Salad

Ingredients with an asterisk () are available as 365 and 365 Organic Everyday Value™

Serves 4

2 slices bacon , cut into 1" pieces
1 small onion, peeled and chopped
1 small carrot, peeled and chopped
32 ounces organic chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups Organic Black Beluga Lentils
1 bay leaf
sea salt, to taste
ground pepper, to taste
1/3 cup (3 ounce) Feta Cheese Crumbles

Salad
2 Belgian endive, sliced
2 tangerines, peeled, sliced and seeded
extra virgin olive oil
black pepper

Ingredient Options: substitute 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil for the bacon.

In a large pot, heat bacon (or olive oil), onion and carrot over medium heat. Cook 2–3 minutes until onion is soft but not browned. Add broth, lentils and bay leaf and simmer over low heat 15–20 minutes until lentils are tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with feta crumbles. For salad, simply toss together ingredients and serve.

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The Italian Wedding Soup was a hit with the kids. I should have doubled it because everyone wanted seconds. I used Brown Rice pasta, and you couldn't tell the difference. It will be added to the regular rotation of meals at the Colwill house for sure!

Italian Wedding Soup with Vegan Meatballs

Vegetarian

Heat-and-serve simple and full of flavor, our Whole Kitchen™ Vegan Meatballs make a great substitution that will please the whole family. The recipe name is actually a mistranslation of minestra maritata, which refers to the "marriage" of greens and meatballs in the soup.

Ingredients with an asterisk () are available as 365 Everyday Value™ and/or 365 Organic Everyday Value™ products.

Serves 6

1 (15-ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes with garlic, oregano and basil
6 cups organic vegetable broth
4 ounces elbow pasta
1 (16-ounce) package vegan meatballs
3 cups fresh organic spinach, roughly chopped
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Sea salt and ground black pepper
2-3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Bring the tomatoes and broth to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Simmer 10 minutes. Add pasta, meatballs, spinach and Italian seasoning and cook until the pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through, about 8 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and serve. Sprinkle with parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Info

Per serving (About 14.5oz/418g-wt.): 310 calories (79 from fat), 9g total fat, 0.33g saturated fat, 18.5g protein, 34g total carbohydrate (5g dietary fiber, 7g sugar), 3mg cholesterol, 1400mg sodium

Dinner tonight

Wed, 07 May 2008 20:23:23 GMT

The Farmer's Market was pretty slim this past Sunday, but I did get some good zucchini from a farm down in Pueblo. I also got some Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs. I came across this recipe which can use both. I'm making this for dinner tonight.

Goat Cheese & Bruschetta Stuffed Zucchini with Chickpea Salad

Vegetarian

4 small zucchini, cut in half lengthwise
sea salt
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup Whole Pantry Sundried Tomato and Olive Bruschetta Topping
1 (4-ounce) package 365 Organic Everyday Value Fresh Goat Cheese
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder or Spanish pimentón
1 (15-ounce) can 365 Organic Everyday Value Garbanzo Beans, very well drained
1 cup (about 2 ounces) baby arugula leaves
1 tomato, seeded and finely diced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 fresh lemon

Preheat oven to 400°F. Gently scoop out zucchini to form "boats." Sprinkle with salt and invert onto paper towels. Let sit 15 minutes, rinse, pat dry. Combine bread crumbs and bruschetta topping and divide evenly into boats (about 2 tablespoons each). Top with crumbled goat cheese and bake 10–15 minutes until just tender. While zucchini cooks, heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium high heat, add chili powder and stir to blend. Add beans and cook until lightly golden. Turn off heat and toss in arugula leaves. Serve alongside zucchini boats. Garnish all with tomato, parsley and fresh lemon juice.

Getting Dinner on the table

Tue, 06 May 2008 19:15:50 GMT

I'm addicted to the Whole Foods Market "Meals for 4 for under $15". They have brochures at the store that have 5 meals in them for the week, and then a grocery list with check boxes on it. LOVE it! and it's all super yummy food. If you want to look at past ones you can do so here. Last night we had the Tuna Nicoise (I served it with a Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper Soup - YUM!), and tonight it's the Apple Cheddar Quesadillas with Cranberry Coleslaw. Some of my past favorites have been the Scallop and Asparagus Risotto, and the Split Pea Soup. They are easy and fast, and if you are a foodie, but have kids to feed, I promise everyone will be happy!

Apple Cheddar Quesadillas with Cranberry Coleslaw

Prepare the tangy coleslaw first, so its flavors can meld while you make the quesadillas.

Serves 4

Cranberry Coleslaw

1/4 cup 365 Everyday Value™ mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar
sea salt, to taste
10 ounces shredded cabbage coleslaw mix
1 large carrot, peeled and grated
2 scallions, green and white parts thinly sliced
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped walnuts, optional

Quesadillas
6 365 Organic Everyday Value™ whole wheat tortillas
12 ounces 365 Everyday Value™ shredded cheddar cheese
2 apples (any sweet, crunchy variety like Gala or Fuji), washed and sliced
2 tablespoons butter

Prepare the coleslaw: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons water, sugar and salt. Combine shredded cabbage, carrot, scallions, cranberries and optional nuts in a large bowl. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Allow coleslaw to sit at least 15 minutes before serving, tossing occasionally. Serve with apple quesadillas.

Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons cheese over one half of tortilla. Place several apple slices, barely overlapping, on top of cheese. Then sprinkle 2 more tablespoons of cheese on top of apples and fold tortilla in half. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Heat butter in skillet over medium-high heat and cook quesadillas until the cheese melts and the tortillas are golden brown on both sides. Serve immediately with Cranberry Coleslaw.

random thoughts.

Sun, 04 May 2008 22:13:24 GMT

I have had an interesting month or so spiritually. I feel like even as we are planting seeds for our spring garden, I am in ways I don't fully understand being used to plants seeds spiritually all over the place. I've had so many opportunities to share my testimony, specifically at MOPS, and also just with friends (and strangers). I don't know what God is doing with that, but I hope He can use my past to His glory somehow. That's the only reason I want to share it. I don't like reflecting on the past. I really feel like this new life God has given me is such a precious gift, I don't want to dwell on the other things. However, if it can encourage someone else, then I know it's worth it.

We've had a series at church on worship. Today on a side note he was talking about the Devil, and he was saying how easy it is when we go to work, watch a bit of TV, eat 3 meals a day, play with our kids in a day, it's so easy to forget about spiritual warfare. Or even doubt that there is really anything going on. How can there be demons plotting things, when I am just sitting here watching Seinfeld? But he asked a good question, and one that he asked us to ask ourselves. What could the Devil seek to destroy in your life? What ways could he unravel these good things in your life? Because he wants to. Because we can't forget he is the Deceiver. The Afflictor. The Oppressor. He does not want me to believe. To have faith. To commit my life. It was a reminder I have to guard my heart, and my family well, and cover all things in prayer.

One way I know I can answer this question is that I know that the Devil could definitely seek to destroy my marriage, because without that my whole family would fall apart. Rob and I were made one, and he would be severing a bond sealed by God Himself. I have had a lot of ups and downs trying to learn what it means to be the kind of wife God wants me to be, and that Rob hopes I would be, without completely forgetting the unique person God made me to be. It becomes easier with each passing year to see that it doesn't have to be an either/or. One thing I always come back to is Proverbs 31. In different seasons I read it and it appears new to me. Different parts speak to me. Right now lately it suddenly feels like the whole scripture is talking about her work ethic. How hard she works for her family. I am temporarily watching someone elses 8 and 22 month old kids as she goes back to work just for a couple of months, and it's been SO challenging. Exhausting. Stretching. Time comsuming. And yet I say, good. It's a good kind of busy, and there is a happy rhythm to our days. I know I'm helping her, and making some extra money for us for awhile, and I know that God is there. (The week after I started doing this I got our tax bill - and I thank God He provided this extra work for me, it's just what we need!)

After I mentioned this to a friend, she emailed me a sort of devotion on Proverbs 31 that someone gave her once upon a time in a Bible Study or something. I wish I knew who wrote it so I can credit her. I printed it out and am going to stick it in my bible, and I'm excited about the things God will unravel to me throughout the years from that. Below I put Proverbs 31, and then the thoughts on it from my friend.

If you are a wife, I encourage you not to be overwhelmed by the idea of the Proverbs 31 women, she is a beautiful example to us, and it certainly doesn't list her faults. I'm sure if I wrote a list describing myself it would read like "She grumbles when the kids arrive in her room at 6am, she has no idea how to garden and kills all things green. She does okay with baking, but is hopeless is she has to cook a piece of meat....etc." But think about if someone else, maybe your mother or spouse, who LOVES you, wrote a description of you. Wouldn't it sound more like "She gets up at 5am to go to the gym 2 days a week even when she's tired. She brings meals to people she hardly even knows if they are having a hard time" (which sounds more like what Rob would write about me:) That is the kind of love with which this passage was written about this woman. Surely she wouldn't have chosen to write it that way about herself, none of us really can. I'm sure she had her faults like we all do, but this was just a passage written to praise the wonderful parts of her. I don't feel overwhlemed by it - I feel called. I hope you do too.

proverbs 31:9-31 (NIV)

9 ....Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

¹⁰ A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.

¹¹ Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.

¹² She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.

¹³ She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.

¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.

    ¹⁵ She gets up while it is still dark;
       she provides food for her family
       and portions for her servant girls.

¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.

¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.

¹⁹ In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.

²¹ When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

²² She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

²³ Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.

²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

²⁹ "Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."

³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

³¹ Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

The Description of a Virtuous Woman

This is the description of a virtuous woman of those days, but the general outlines equally suit every age and nation.

1. She is very careful to recommend herself to her husband's esteem and affection, to know his mind, and is willing that he rule over her. 1. She can be trusted, and he will leave such a wife to manage for him. He is happy in her. And she makes it her constant business to do him good.

2. She is one that takes pains in her duties, and takes pleasure in them. She is careful to fill up time, that none be lost. She rises early. She applies herself to the business proper for her, to women's business. She does what she does, with all her power, and trifles not.

3. She makes what she does turn to good account by prudent management. Many undo themselves by buying, without considering whether they can afford it. She provides well for her house. She lays up for hereafter.

4. She looks well to the ways of her household, that she may oblige all to do their duty to God and one another, as well as to her.

5. She is intent upon giving as upon getting, and does it freely and cheerfully.

6. She is discreet and obliging; every word she says, shows she governs herself by the rules of wisdom. She not only takes prudent measures herself, but gives prudent advice to others. The law of love and kindness is written in the heart, and shows itself in the tongue. Her heart is full of another world, even when her hands are most busy about this world.

7. Above all, she fears the Lord. Beauty recommends none to God, nor is it any proof of wisdom and goodness, but it has deceived many a man who made his choice of a wife by it. But the fear of God reigning in the heart, is the beauty of the soul; it lasts for ever.

8. She has firmness to bear up under crosses and disappointments. She shall reflect with comfort when she comes to be old, that she was not idle or useless when young. She shall rejoice in a world to come. She is a great blessing to her relations. If the fruit be good, the tree must have our good word. But she leaves it to her own works to praise her.

Every one ought to desire this honour that cometh from God; and according to this standard we all ought to regulate our judgments. This description let all women daily study, who desire to be truly beloved and respected, useful and honourable. This passage is to be applied to individuals, but may it not also be applied to the church of God, which is described as a virtuous spouse? God by his grace has formed from among sinful men a church of true believers, to possess all the excellences here described.

Dinner - What's cooking tonight.....

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:42:21 GMT

It has been awhile since I've randomly posted what we're having for dinner. I somehow have a quiet house at 5:30pm which is unheard of! So I thought I would post.

I have found some salmon I actually like at Costco. It's in the freezer section, wild caught, and is marinated. We're having some of that with two sides. yum!! The sides are kid-friendly, and I know their won't be leftovers!

The first side I got from a health newsletter I get in the mail. It's called the Nutrition Action Newsletter, and it's put out by the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

I can't remember it exactly, it was so easy I didn't cut it out or write it down. Here's basically what you do....

Brown Rice with Cherry Tomatoes

Cook some brown rice. I do this in my rice cooker, and when it flips over to the "Keep Warm" I stir in some cherry tomatoes cut in half, and something green: arugala, spinich, fresh cilantro, fresh parlsey are good ideas. Serve with Olive Oil drizzled on top, and salt and pepper. yum! It's so simple, but trust me it's delicious! I was getting bored with my standard brown rice sides, and this has become our new favorite if I can get my hands on some decent cherry tomatoes.

Here's the other side I've got in the oven:

Parsnip-Carrot-Beet Bake

Raw Food Life Force Energy by Natalia Rose

Makes 2 to 4 servings

2 large parsnips, sliced into thin disks

3 large carrots, sliced into thin disks

1 large beet (or 2 to three small ones), sliced into thin disks (I used the yellow beets - not so messy)

3 Tablespoons agave necter (honey substitute you don't want to live without!)

Sea salt and fresh pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a baking dish, layer the parsnips, carrots, and beets. In a small bowl, mix the agave with the sea salt and pepper, then por the agave mixture evenly over the vegetables. Bake until the veggies become tender, brown, and rispy on the edges (about 25 minutes). Serve on a platter, family style.

The Economies of.....the Scale?

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:44:40 GMT

I read this article today on MSN.....What if no one were fat? Pretty interesting, and it got me thinking.

By Shirley Skeel

Editor's note: This is part of an occasional series on financial what-ifs.

In the United States today, 66% of adults are overweight. Almost 33% of adults are obese, and 4.7% are morbidly obese, or more than 100 pounds overweight. But . . .

What if nobody in America were fat?

We'd save billions of dollars in gas. Airlines would double their profits. A dearth of diabetes and other diseases would save billions of dollars more -- and put thousands of doctors on the street. McDonald's would sell not Big Macs but little steamed chicken snacks -- or watch its profits melt away. Productivity would rise, potentially creating tens of thousands more jobs or higher wages all around.

Add up the savings up on health, food, clothing and efficiencies, and you could buy a professional home gym for every U.S. household -- or hand each $4,270 in cash.

$487 billion in gas, sweat and stretch pants

Yes, it sounds a little wild, but the implications of a leaner, meaner country add up to a weighty $487 billion. That's almost 3.5% of gross domestic product, no small sum.
Mind you, only 1.8% of that is new growth. The rest is a radical shift in resources, away from the needs of our bigger citizens to . . . well, whatever we and our overlords would spend these extra billions on.

First, let's put the meat on that $487 billion. The estimates below assume the average American adult is at least 20 pounds overweight, a figure nutritionists see as fair.

Savings on fuel for cars and airlines due to their lighter loads would top $5 billion, according to industry studies. Researchers say each overweight driver burns about 18 additional gallons of gas a year, or just under a billion gallons altogether. Savings in the air are far greater: The jet-fuel savings alone could double North American airlines' forecast 2008 profits to $3.8 billion and maybe persuade them to stop stranding passengers because they can't afford the fuel for flights. As for oil imports, they'd be dented by less than 1%.

Plus-sized clothing costs 10% to 15% more, so shoppers would save $10 billion on shirts, pants and dresses. And clothes might fit better too. Cynthia Istook, an associate professor in textile apparel at North Carolina State University, says the economies of making fewer sizes would be tremendous. Clothing makers could then afford to offer more variety in hip and bust sizes, rather than asking every woman to squeeze into an hourglass shape.
Because 3,500 calories translates into a pound of fat, somewhere along the way, America's 227 million adults have eaten 16 trillion calories too many. That's 14 billion Big Mac meals, with fries and a soda. Eliminate those and you wipe out $81 billion, or McDonald's past four years of sales.
- If Americans were slim and maintained their weight by eating 150 fewer calories a day (half a slice of pizza), that could snip roughly 6.5%, or $20 billion a year, off U.S. farmers' sales (assuming no extra exports). Bob Young, the American Farm Bureau's chief economist, says farmers would cope. They'd switch some land from fattening seed oils and sugar beets to fruits and vegetables. Or they might grow corn for ethanol, or even open a hunting resort.
- The medical costs of obesity-related problems such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease run near $140 billion, or more than 6% of all health-care costs. That ballpark figure was calculated by Joel Cohen, an economic researcher for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, using data from a 1998 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study. Cohen reckons that if no one were fat, medical insurance costs would fall -- to everyone's delight -- and doctors and drug makers could do more preventive care. That sounds good, but Roland Sturm, a senior economist for Rand in Santa Monica, Calif., doubts anyone would pay for preventive care. More likely, he says, some doctors would be on the street. "They could drive cabs," he suggests.
- Productivity in the workplace would jump as people took fewer sick days and spent less time at work feeling unwell. Ross DeVol, the director of health economics at the Milken Institute, says the loss of productivity due to people showing up at work sick is "immense." Using a recent Milken report on the subject, he calculates that if no one were obese, the added output from workers and their caregivers would give the country a $257 billion boost. That's 1.8% of GDP, enough extra output to allow businesses to hire tens of thousands more workers or to raise wages, economists say. Or at least, that's the theory. Given bosses' love of expanding their profits and their own pay, you can count on some of this being spirited away. Just look at 2000 to 2005, when worker productivity rose 16.6% while median wages rose less than half that amount.
- "Jenny Craig would be very unhappy" if everyone were slim, says Rand's Sturm. And so she would, along with the rest of the $55 billion weight-loss industry. Trimmed-down citizens would be swapping their diet pills for bikinis and their gastric-banding for nose jobs.

What to do with all that money?

On top of these savings would be billions of dollars more. Manufacturers and builders wouldn't have to make doorways bigger, car seats wider, furniture stouter. Some even argue that global warming would slow a mite, as consumption of gas, energy, fertilizer and methane-producing cattle decreased.

Even without those extras, the $487 billion reshuffle of the economy would put us on the spot. Exactly how would we spend all this freed-up cash? Optimists sing about improving education or medical research. Others figure we'd fritter away the money.

It seems, in fact, that economists have a word for our usual behavior: suboptimal. That's what we do. We suboptimize. We think short term instead of long term, reducing our chances of living healthily and happily ever after.

So assuming we didn't behave like angels, the net effect on the economy of a slimmer population would be a lot of reshuffled resources, with a nice rise in productivity that should take our living standards up a notch.

The social gains are more difficult to predict. Research has shown that people who are not obese marry more, are paid more, are promoted more, sleep better and have better sex lives. We don't yet know whether people earn less because they're fat, or whether they're fat because they earn less. Researchers suspect it is the former because there's some evidence of discrimination against the obese.

Either way, a slimmer society would, arguably, seem to be more secure and content.

But, of course, then we have the awful question: Can we all be paid more and promoted more and marry more? Only to a limited degree.

Jay Zagorsky, a sociology researcher at Ohio State University, is convinced that society would adjust. We might lose an awful lot of people to pick on, but he concludes: "They will find something else. If it's not the size of your waist, it may be the size of your nose."

Published April 23, 2008

Drink up!

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 22:09:21 GMT

With grocery prices going up, and more and more fresh produce making appearances at the grocery and Farmer's Markets, I have been inspired to make more of our drinks at home. I love drinks. I have been found to be very content at such functions like weddings where I am sitting with water, punch, champagne, wine, and coffee surrounding my plate. Our fridge is always full of a selection. But drinks are expensive, even if you buy them on sale or in bulk. So I've been making lots of iced teas - experimenting with whatever tea I find. I also have been eating and drinking more out of Natalia Rose's books, and have fallen in love with some of her Elixirs. You can make a big pitcher and leave it in the fridge and just sip on it all day. I included her notes below for descriptions.

Here's to Spring!!! Cheers!

orange zest

Raw Food Life Force Energy by Natalia Rose

This is the drink I recommend most to people who are trying to stop drinking sodas and feel the need for something other than water. It's charged with electrolytes from the citrus, deeply hydrating, and also sweet - essentially a fresh fruit-infused water.

Makes about 8 cups

64 ounces purified water

1 whole lemon, sliced

1 whole orange, sliced

1 to 3 sprigs fresh mint

1 lime, sliced

3 packets Stevia (Note: stevia is a safe sugar substitute, made from a plant)

Mix all ingredients into a large jug or pitcher. Stir and enjoy throughout the day.

fresh mint elixir

Raw Food Life Force Energy by Natalia Rose

This is a great drink to keep in the fridge for guests. It becomes more flavorful over the course of a day. It's refreshing and leaves everyone feeling clean and high-vibing!

Makes about 9 cups

64 ounces fresh water

1/2 medium cucumber, sliced into thin disks

1 to 3 sprigs fresh mint

1 medium carrot, sliced into thin disks

1 lemon, sliced into thin disks

Mix all ingredients into a large jug or pitcher. Stir and enjoy throughout the day.

Whole Wheat Pancakes with Apple Maple Syrup

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:05:44 GMT

Somedays I wake up and just want something different, don't you? You already know what the whole day holds before you, so why not make breakfast something special? Whenever I do this, I tend to approach the day with a different attitude. I love trying new foods - it just refreshes me somehow, and leaves me with a lasting smile on my face.

Today I woke up and remembered I had accidently bought buttermilk last week (for a recipe that I had changed and omitted the buttermilk from), and it has to be used this week. I can't even remember if I have bought buttermilk before - I just don't use dairy if I can help it. So the first thing that popped into my head was Buttermilk Pancakes. I searched the Epicurious and Cooking Light websites. I ended up making an Apple Maple Syrup from a Epicurious recipe, and a pancake recipe from Cooking Light. The results were fluffy filling pancakes, and an easy syrup that just made them a little bit special.

Maple Syrup Apples
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
3 large Golden Delicious apples (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled, cored, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For maple syrup apples:
Melt butter in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add apples and 1 tablespoon maple syrup; sauté until apples are tender, about 5 minutes. Mix in remaining 1/2 cup maple syrup and cinnamon. (Then I put the burner on low to keep warm)

Whole Wheat Buttermilk Pancakes

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups low-fat buttermilk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 large egg white
Cooking spray
3/4 cup maple syrup
3 tablespoons butter

Lightly spoon flours into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk. Combine buttermilk, oil, egg, and egg white, stirring with a whisk; add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist.

Heat a nonstick griddle or nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat. Spoon about 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto griddle. Turn pancakes over when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 2 pancakes

Surprise Surprise

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 19:21:50 GMT

Well, I can't believe I am saying this, but I registered for a marathon! Those who know me well are probably saying about now "HUH?!?"

Because if you know me, you know I hate running. (See previous post) I really, really, really hate running. Now that I know some things about my knees and back, this makes much more sense to me, but still. Seriously? I think it just sucks.

That said, a friend from High School that I got back in touch with, Becky, is flying out here to do the marathon, and she is walking it, so I figure I can walk it too. It's the Bolder Boulder 10K on Memorial Day. It's suppose to be really cool, with bands playing along the way, and a big party type finish with a 21 gun salute, and jets flying overhead for Memorial Day.

Well I'm up for trying anything once! Even though our treadmill just died (RIP) and I have no time to train really, I'm going to go for it. I have an elliptical that I go on every day, and I walk back and forth to my son's school which is about a half mile away, so I'm sure it will be all good.

For the love of Quiche

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 16:55:09 GMT

We try not to eat too much dairy, but one thing I occasionally make an exception for is Quiche. I never had Quiche until I was an adult, and I just love a good vegetarian one. I try to always keep one in the freezer which is my dinner-in-a-pinch when I need it. They are so great to heat up and serve with a yummy salad - any time of day really. I might pull one out if I spontaneously invite someone over for lunch, or for nights like tonight - it's our Date Night and I don't want to make a big yummy dinner for the kids that I won't get to eat! (It can be a problem if you like your own cooking.....I want to stay home and eat what I made, and not go out!)

So tonight is date night, and we get to go use a gift certificate to the wonderful California Cafe, and I can't wait! So it's quiche and salad for the kids tonight, and I'm going to try not to sneak too many bites! I am getting tired of the standard lettuce salad I've been putting together from whatever I find in my fridge, so I decided to try something new tonight. I got this recipe from this month's "Meals for 4 for under $15" from Whole Foods. I can't wait to make it. I got all the things this morning at Whole Foods - which by the way, I saw a woman in front of me pay over $500 for 3 bags of groceries!!!!!!!!! Was there a lot of vitamins mixed in there or something? I don't know - CRAZY!!

Hearts of Palm and Avocado Salad

Serves 4

1 cup mixed baby greens
1 (14-ounce) can hearts of palm salad cut, drained
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup sliced radishes
1 ripe avocado, pitted, peeled and cubed
1 blood orange, cut into segments (or 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette dressing
Sea salt and ground black pepper

Toss greens, hearts of palm, onion, radishes, avocado and orange segments in a bowl with vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with additional vinaigrette, if desired. (Serve with quiche wedges.)

Slicing an onion is easier than just crying by oneself.....

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 03:06:58 GMT

Cooking is completely free therapy for me. The crazier the day I'm having, or if something is really plaguing me, or stressing me out, the more elaborate the dinner that will appear on our table that evening. I have a hunch this is suppose to be the exact opposite. Isn't the appearance of drama suppose to send me straight to the phone to order a pizza?

I think the kitchen is just my place to work things out. If I pull out a new recipe that has caught my eye recently, and slice, and saute, and roast, or

beat, and sift, and bake, and produce something beautiful, edible, and hey - even delicious, I have essentially worked something out. If I can't work the problem out that is in my mind, I have at least seen something to completion through the work of my hands. And if I got to shed a few tears while slicing an onion, that's totally respectable. No one will know the difference.

This is what keeps me sane, and helps me reflect I think. Often when I'm rolling out a pie crust, or slicing up some tempah, I am mulling over so many things. And when I've had enough of myself, and wish I could crawl out of those 4 walls in my mind, soon enough my trio of toddler helpers will come barreling around the corner, and squeal in delight when they see I have my apron on. They are pulling up stools and chairs to the island, peering over asking 20 questions.

"What is that?"

"mmm, can I have a lick?"

"Are those raw? Cause I just like 'em cooked, you know?"

"Mama? Chocolate? Me? Peeeaaasssseee?"

"What can I do to help?"

and then we settle in to a rhythm, each kid with a job (the most loathed job is setting the table, "But mom, I like to cooooookkkk.....")

and we make something wonderful.

Tempeh and Mushroom Stroganoff
www.wholefoodskitchen.com

Vegetarian

"Nutty tempeh has a satisfying protein texture that lends itself well to this vegetarian take on beef strogranoff. It will become a new family favorite, despite its healthy virtues!"

Serves 4

1 (8-oz) package wild rice tempeh, cut into 1/2" thick strips
1 tablespoon 365 Everyday Value™ Canola Oil
1/2 365 Organic Everyday Value™ Yellow Onion, sliced thin
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 large portabello mushroom, sliced
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 packet vegetarian brown gravy mix
4 ounces low fat sour cream
2 cups frozen 365 Organic Everyday Value™ Whole Grain Brown Rice
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Brown tempeh strips in canola oil, turning slices until both sides are very brown. Remove tempeh from pan and set aside. Add onion and garlic to same pan and cook until golden. Stir in sesame oil, mushroom slices and Worcestershire sauce and cook until mushrooms are soft. Add tempeh back to the pan. In a measuring cup, combine gravy mix with instructed amount of water, then stir into tempeh mixture and heat until thick. Stir in sour cream and heat just until warm. Prepare rice according to package directions. Serve stroganoff over rice, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Info

Per serving (About 8.5oz/243g-wt.): 340 calories (110 from fat), 12g total fat, 3g saturated fat, 14g protein, 44g total carbohydrate (6g dietary fiber, 4g sugar), 10mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium

Excerpt from "Freddy and Fredricka" by Mark Helprin

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:59:19 GMT

"Soccer moms," Freddy said, "spend all day driving around in shapeless vehicles that look like Flash Gordon's bread truck, and their children watch television in the back and ape the superficial characters therein. This is the cause of deep unhappiness, because what they want is so different from what they have, even if they don't realise that this is so. They don't want their children to dress like circus clowns, speak like zombie chipmunks, and behave like programmed machines. They want sons and daughters they can talk to; they want a struggle that they can win but that they are not assured of winning; they want to know physical exhaustion; they want to be sunburned; they want to smell eucalyptus; they want to weep; they want to dance naked for their husbands; they want to feel the wind, see the stars, swim in a river, slam the back door, and laugh uncontrollably with their children. That's what they want. They don't want the crap they have, the crap Self promises, or the crap you would promise if you could figure out what to promise. They want to be free, to have dignity, to know honour and sacrifice. What else does anyone want?"

Reading ideas for K and 1st graders

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:35:54 GMT

They are learning about "Missionary Heroes" in church this month. They passed out a list of gift ideas for Kindergarden and 1st graders for reading in this area. We checked out the volumes I and II of the Hero Tales from the library and they are GREAT. My Kindergardner has been carrying them everywhere, and I love the stories. We are both being very inspired by the heroes of our faith.

BOOKS

Hero Tales: Volume I by Dave and Neta Jackson
Hero Tales: Volume II by Dave and Neta Jackson
Hero Tales: Volume III by Dave and Neta Jackson
Ten Boys Who Changed the World by Irene Howat
Ten Girls Who Changed the World by Irene Howat
Eric Liddell, Gold Medal Missionary by Ellen Caughey

Heroes for Young Readers Series by Renee Taft Meloche

Gladys Aylward, Daring to Trust
William Carey, Bearer of Good News
Amy Carmichael, Rescuing Children
Jim Elliot, A Light for God
Jonathan GoForth, Never Give Up
Betty Greene, Flying High
Adorniram Judson, A Grand Purpose
Eric Liddell, Running for a Higher Prize
David Livingstone, Corageous Explorer
Lottie Moon, A Generous Offering
George Muller, Faith to Feed Ten Thousand
Nate Saint, Heavenbound
Mary Slessor, Courage in Africa
Hudson Taylor, Friend of China
Corrie Ten Boom, Shining in the Darkness
Cameron Townsend, Planting God's Word

Video: Heroes from Christian History, volume II
(Volume II was the only one they recommended for this age group)

Vitamin D and me

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:13:18 GMT

I try to keep up on studies and journals that write about sun exposure and Vitamin D. It's been interesting to see opinions change, and new information regarding them.

The most recent of studies I read concluded that we do not absorb Vitamin D when we have sunblock on our skin. (Sorry I couldn't find a link to the study on-line) After being told to lather up every time we walk out the door, this can be a frustrating thing to learn. However I think there are some simple things you can do in order to get your Vitamin D, and prevent wrinkles and skin cancer at the same time.

Every day you should be sunblock on your face, neck, and hands. Neck and Hands??? Yes. People often overlook these areas, but they are just as important. In fact, no matter how much you remember sunblock on your face, you will still show your age on your neck and hands if you don't use sunblock there as well. Once when a friend and I were at a high-end beauty store and I asked the women working there what one could do, say, if you NEVER would be able to afford the $130 anti-wrinkle cream? Are the rest of us doomed to be wrinkled? She's just one of the places I heard the same answer, and that was this: Save your money, and buy some sunblock. Putting on your face, neck, and hands every day without fail will work better for you than any of the creams on the market.

Here are my picks:

SPLURGE: Aveda Oil Free Dual Nature SPF 25 Face Protection $25.00 (for all skin types, and the only one on the market I found you can use on babies)

OR for the busy mom, Aveda Inner Light Tinted Moisture SPF 15 $25.00

ON A BUDGET: Aveeno Continuous Sunblock Lotion Face SPF 30 $8.99 (also oil-free)

I actually don't use sunblock on the rest of myself, unless we are going on an unusually long day hike, or day at the beach etc. Did you know that if you are eating properly, and getting all your vitamins, your body has what it needs to protect you from an average days sun exposure? It's true. I tested it out. I am fair skinned, freckled, and have red hair. I am a huge candidate for burns, and used to burn easily in the sun. After I re-vamped my diet, I can even lay out now for hours without sunblock (on the rest of my body! I always do face, neck and hands:) So there's another reason to eat those veggies!

I think if you leave sunblock off of the rest of you for an average day's sun exposure, you can rest assured you'll be getting some of that good Vitamin D you need.

You only need 20 minutes of sun exposure (without sunblock) 3-4 times a week to get the Vitamin D you need. Instead of putting Elijah through jaundice treatment when he was newborn, the doctor simply had me sit outside on a park bench with him for 30 minutes a day, and his jaundice went away naturally. I think all this hiding from the sun has not entirely been good for us after all. In addition to helping the body absorb calcium, vitamin D also helps the body keep the right amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood.

If you live in an area where you get limited sun exposure, or you have a restricted diet, you might consider looking into food that you can get Vitamin D from, or taking suppliments. There is an article with some helpful information here. Definitely talk to your doctor before you do either, to avoid getting too much.

If you do go out on a day when you will be out in the sun for a long time, then go out for an hour without sunblock. Take some with you and put some on a bit later. We have found a kind that I highly recommend. It works so great for kids, and for those of us with thin hair, and can burn even in our hairline. It goes on like a mist, almost like a bug spray. It's awesome! You just spray a mist around your toddler, and 15 seconds later they can run off and play. No more lathering up with the icky white creams. Also it won't make your hair greasy. Banana Boat Sport Ultra Mist SPF 30 Continuous Clear Spray about $10.00.

Have a great spring! Get out and enjoy those sunny days! :)

The Pointe

Sun, 02 Mar 2008 04:27:46 GMT

The tickets that I won from the Colorado Ballet were good to see Coppelia Friday night, and I took a new friend - a mom of one of the boys in Elijah's Kindergarden class. Their family has kids about the same ages as ours, and Elijah and her son have really hit it off. It was so much fun to get to know her more and enjoy a girl's night out!

We've had some beautiful sunny days this week, and it was a beautiful evening Friday night. I got a last minute call from her that her husband was going to be late, but her mom would be there to pick the kids up anyway. I got home at 5:10pm from running errands, and had to leave at 5:30 to pick her up! Its amazing how it can take so long to get ready pre-kids for a special night out, yet somehow I pulled it together in that time! I showed up at her house in Rob's convertible so excited - we decided as we approached the city and we were going to be late for our reservation, that we didn't care. Even if we ended up eating at Qdoba or something, we were just thrilled to be out of the house!

We arrived at The Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar 25 minutes late, but they had kept our table for us, AND served us the Prix Fix meal they were featuring for Denver Restaurant Week, and got us out in time for the Ballet. Amazing! It was a relaxing, delicious meal, and I will definitely go there again. I have never had Crab Pad Thai before....ooooh...it was so good!

When we sat down for the Ballet I was just amazed at how much time has passed since I was in the dance world. How much can happen in 10 years, to bring me from the stage to the audience? It feels like a different lifetime in ways, since I have performed. Yet, I thought I would feel more wistful about it, even jealous maybe when the dancers came out on the stage. I was relieved to find that I felt neither - I just felt entertained. It was a lighthearted performance, a bit of a comedy, and we enjoyed it. I came to find out that Chrissy had also been in dance in High School and College, and we had fun remembering how lithe and talented we used to be! It feels so good to be in a place now where I don't hold any regrets. In the dance world, the culture is an odd one. You live, breathe, and dream about dance. There is nothing else - everything else is sacrificed for the art. Your body is a thing you become self-absorbed with, and there is a lot of self-worship. You believe you are purposeful, but you are not. Bodies fail us (as my knees and back did). You wake up every day trying to pour out from an empty well. You brake yourself, and test yourself, and yet the goal is not one you have invested in and then can take away with you. It is an empty one in a way, because the moment you can't do it anymore, it is lost to you.

I was telling my friend Liz when I was back in CA that there is such a peace I have found in being a mother. I think that before I had kids, I carried around this restless feeling in me, wondering what my purpose was. Always wondering if I was reaching towards it, or completely missing the mark. This peace I have found comes from the fact that when I wake up every morning, I don't ever wonder what my purpose on this earth is. For me, it is to love, disciple, and grow, healthy, God -fearing, independent children into adults. What a huge undertaking! I am in awe to have been chosen for it, and I don't ever take it lightly. I am investing in something that is eternal. Their lives and souls.

Do I think no one should be a dancer? No! I still completely love the art, and always will. It's a conflicting feeling I have about it.

On a lighter note - today it got to 70 Degrees here in Denver! yeah!!! We decided to turn our weekend around, and leave our "work day" for Sunday since it's suppose to snow tomorrow (!) and we took off to El Dorado Canyon. Wow, it was beautiful there! We hiked and the kids climbed around on some rocks, and in some caves. I'm always at my bravest during these outings. I don't know which I have more of a fear of - heights or port-a-pots, but either way, I survivied. (Although Analise had to be bribed with M&M's to visit the Port-a-pot - she is a smart girl already that one) We then went to the picnic area and ate our yummy lunch packed by my Super Husband - hummus and cheese, and turkey and cheese sandwiches, veggies, apples, and Izze's to drink. Then I got to lay on the picnic table and work on my tan while the kids explored in the creek and through rocks and snowballs. It was SO weird to have it be 70, and be in a tank top, but have there be snow under our feet!

I love Colorado!

Cooking With Me

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:47:11 GMT

I just love cooking. I think about it when I'm not doing it, I read about it when I'm not doing it, I talk about it, I search on-line for anything that has to do with it.

What is it about it that captivates me everyday, without wavering? I don't really have a solid answer why. I don't think it has to do with being female (think of all the great male chefs, that's enough proof right there), or with being a Homemaker/Stay at Home Mom (I know some SAHM moms who order in dinner every night).

I love the creativity behind it. It feels artistic to me. I also love the feeling that comes over me when I'm in a recipe or meal. Born a Type A, a first born, I like to refer to myself as a recovering perfectionist. Cooking helps me with this immensely. Because I don't want to do it if it's not fun, and I don't want to do it if it doesn't taste good. Every night my head hits the pillow with brave intentions of eating 100% Raw Food Vegan tomorrow, because I know that's what's best. Then I wake up and drink my Green Lemonade, have fruit all morning, proudly munch on a salad for lunch....and start dreaming of dinner. Before I know it we're dining on Stuffed Sole with sauteed chard and carrots, and polishing it off with some Dark Chocolate Mint Brownies or something. I feel sometimes proud, sometimes weak, depending on what my motivations are for that day.

Maybe these extra 10 pounds I am left with after 3 kids are here to stay. They annoy me, like a sibling can when you are children, and I have waged war on them many a times. But my happiest hours of the day are the 2 hours before dinner. When my kids and I are swinging our hips around the kitchen to India.Arie, and I've got a glass of red wine, and there's two different things on the stove, and one in the oven, and I'm feeling inspired about dessert.

Citrus Sole Packets

Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free

Looking to cut down on fat and calories? Cooking food in a packet is one of the best ways to keep the flavor locked in and cleanup couldn´t be easier.

Serves 4

1 tablespoons 365 Everyday Value™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 cups chopped swiss chard or kale
1 cup julienned Whole Fields™ Organic Petite Carrots
1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons finely chopped scallions, divided
juice and zest of one orange
sea salt, to taste
ground pepper, to taste
2 (12-oz) pkgs Whole Catch™ Sole Fillets, thawed and patted dry
8–12 thin slices of lemon

Preheat oven to 450ºF. Heat oil in a large sauté pan and cook chard, carrots, celery and half of scallions until soft, about 8 minutes. Let cool slightly, then toss with orange juice and zest. Season to taste with salt and pepper and set aside. Cut a 2-foot length of parchment paper (or foil) and place on a sheet pan. Spoon about 2 tablespoons veggie mixture onto each fish fillet. Gently roll each fillet and secure with toothpicks. Arrange fillets on one half of the paper. Sprinkle with pepper, top with lemon slices and any remaining sauce. Fold paper in half and crimp edges until well sealed. Bake 12–18 minutes until fish is opaque. Remove rolls and sprinkle with remaining scallions. Remove toothpicks. Serve.

Nutrition Info

Per serving (About 7.5oz/209g-wt.): 200 calories (50 from fat), 5g total fat, 1g saturated fat, 29g protein, 7g total carbohydrate (2g dietary fiber, 4g sugar), 80mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium
www.wholefoodsmarket.com

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dark Chocolate Mint Brownies

* Your favorite Dark Chocolate Brownie mix/recipe
* A bag of York Peppermint Patties
* Your favorite chocolate frosting purchased/prepared

Prepare brownie batter. Grease a small square pan and put half of the brownie mix in the pan. Put one layer of Patties over it. Then top with the rest of the brownie mix. (Do not push the Patties down, and make sure they are compltely covered). Bake according to package directions. When cooled top with chocolate frosting. Bask in all the oohs and aahs, and how little work you did.

Enjoy!

Saying Goodbye

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:10:26 GMT

I just got back from dropping friend Christina off at the airport :(. She's on her way back to CA and I will miss her so much.

We had such a fun time! The last kind of tourist-y type thing we did today, was visit Happy Cakes in the Highlands Park area of Denver. I had a Toasted Almond cupcake - what a treat! She had a Peanut Butter Cup one. Now it's back to real life, and healthy eating!!!

Here's some pics from our adventure today.

Custom List: Books I'm reading

Mon, 19 May 2008 14:02:19 GMT

Books I'm reading

The California Pizza Kitchen Cookbook
mmmmm.....Thai Pizza. I love it at their restaurant. I'm wondering if I can replicate it at home.
Demon by Tosca Lee
Recommended to me by my old Book Club in CA as well written, and thought - provoking. Lucifier approaches a man and asks him to help him write his memior...creation, crucifixion, and resurrection, told from a demon's point of view.
The Food You Crave by Ellie Krieger
Healthy food without depriving yourself - last night we made the Portobella, Gorgonzola, and Sun Dried Tomato Paninis - YUM!

Blog list: Blogs I like to visit

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:16:49 GMT

Blogs I like to visit

CaliSnowflake

Movin' on up

Anniversary

Health Quiz

Health Quiz

Beluga!

Black Beluga Lentils with Endive Citrus Salad

Serves 4

Italian Wedding Soup with Vegan Meatballs

Vegetarian

Serves 6

Nutrition Info

Dinner tonight

Goat Cheese & Bruschetta Stuffed Zucchini with Chickpea Salad

Getting Dinner on the table

Apple Cheddar Quesadillas with Cranberry Coleslaw

Serves 4

random thoughts.

Dinner - What's cooking tonight.....

The Economies of.....the Scale?

$487 billion in gas, sweat and stretch pants

What to do with all that money?

Drink up!

Whole Wheat Pancakes with Apple Maple Syrup

Surprise Surprise

For the love of Quiche

Hearts of Palm and Avocado Salad

Serves 4

Slicing an onion is easier than just crying by oneself.....

Tempeh and Mushroom Stroganoffwww.wholefoodskitchen.com

Serves 4

Nutrition Info

Excerpt from "Freddy and Fredricka" by Mark Helprin

Reading ideas for K and 1st graders

Vitamin D and me

The Pointe

Cooking With Me

Citrus Sole Packets

Serves 4

Nutrition Info

Saying Goodbye

Custom List: Books I'm reading

Blog list: Blogs I like to visit

Tempeh and Mushroom Stroganoff
www.wholefoodskitchen.com