tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63604601289412994162024-03-05T19:25:06.267-06:00Vegan MuttsAwesome vegan food and my mutt Baker.L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-86263357748119031002011-07-21T14:36:00.004-05:002011-07-21T15:11:08.108-05:00This is it.It's been over a year since I've last posted anything on Vegan Mutts. Baker and I have been doing a lot of traveling, transitioning and exploring. We've finally settled down and are rooted for the time being. However, everything's temporary. We might be up for some more adventure soon! Costa Rica? :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfkMVRQI9AAgJ2DNXslUpHDZOKaAc3479C8cGPdi0AbfgdxQDg8t5HQHH5YHuEId7Oc7RoTKdxPCC1WQq1fIBt5QeK-SHfShQWRB8b8T7ZdOZTt2-qjrClGjnVaBlp6nqPIhMDrVLpH4C/s1600/IMG_0373.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 356px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfkMVRQI9AAgJ2DNXslUpHDZOKaAc3479C8cGPdi0AbfgdxQDg8t5HQHH5YHuEId7Oc7RoTKdxPCC1WQq1fIBt5QeK-SHfShQWRB8b8T7ZdOZTt2-qjrClGjnVaBlp6nqPIhMDrVLpH4C/s400/IMG_0373.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631899067293773906" border="0" /></a><br />I've had a blast blogging, cooking and creating but have made the decision to stop. Life is amazing and so beautiful. It's about time I really get up in it. I hope you do the same!<br /><br />Be well and stay compassionate!L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-20406155998952720682010-05-17T20:05:00.002-05:002010-05-18T14:29:22.754-05:00I'm not Martha Stewart, deal with it.My Grandma is a huge fan of Martha Stewart. She will talk about her as if they are best friends. It is pretty dang adorable. I admit it, I am a fan of Martha, too.<br /><br />For my birthday, she gave me a subscription to Martha's Everyday Food. Let me tell ya -- it's a great publication. Fast, cheap and easy recipes. All of them I've made have been really easy to veganize or get ideas to inspire my own creations. What I really like about it is that there is not a lot of advertisements in it. There are some, don't get me wrong, but not a crazy amount. Maybe it is because the magazine isn't typical magazine size, it's really small!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi476aq4Sh63_WPuudRV3tjPQHljE_BwkJtkC6VOKhegdcMa2lZMDXC9DyOR0UCv64_EF7Eavpi5gAgV7RZ92yvrBvDU_tWIGkQqYS-PixmK7maOpGGsvjXK0Godf3-muDRavU0b7IW2ysw/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi476aq4Sh63_WPuudRV3tjPQHljE_BwkJtkC6VOKhegdcMa2lZMDXC9DyOR0UCv64_EF7Eavpi5gAgV7RZ92yvrBvDU_tWIGkQqYS-PixmK7maOpGGsvjXK0Godf3-muDRavU0b7IW2ysw/s400/IMG_0016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472600865353766610" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Tex-Mex Feast!<br /><br /></span></div>Anyway, the June edition had a sweet spread of Mexican food. It is rare that I do this, but I actually made something out of a magazine! I followed the steps annddd most of the ingredients. Some friends came to enjoy the tex-mex goodness with us. Good friends and fresh salsa.. Mmm. Next time, I'm making the jalapeno poppers hotter, they needed a lil' more zing.<br /><br />If Martha Stewart came, she probably would have been impressed with my vegan feast, but sad I didn't decorate enough or make knit sunbreros for my guests. I do love Martha, but I think our personalities would clash a bit. Maybe we'd be friends over some margaritas.L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-46197328412031388012010-05-15T19:10:00.004-05:002010-05-15T19:46:51.032-05:00Cookies and CommencementI wish I was graduating. Two of my spectacular friends graduated today. I was lucky enough to stop by and spend some time with them and their families. They are just so grown up graduating and starting a life in the arts! It is just too great. I love seeing what they are both currently doing and what they will continue to do. Way to go, Kellen and Sabrin!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvvtPAZP9pgUgmxYFD5SYWAnWFqaTJCNUvoIhlOIU5gG_14YPRrtOXHS1LFPSj_vY75DB5qIX_StYfbjBl1SBwD0oO1xGgint7onlp8e1_KOsYHrkNlm2CCdBZsmGews_xfKLWSiV56tx/s1600/IMG_0004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvvtPAZP9pgUgmxYFD5SYWAnWFqaTJCNUvoIhlOIU5gG_14YPRrtOXHS1LFPSj_vY75DB5qIX_StYfbjBl1SBwD0oO1xGgint7onlp8e1_KOsYHrkNlm2CCdBZsmGews_xfKLWSiV56tx/s400/IMG_0004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471661689532553314" border="0" /></a><br />One of my friends is a vegetarian/vegan. He's a doll. I made him a batch of <a href="http://www.everydaydish.tv/index.php?page=recipe&recipe=86">Dreena's </a>cookies which were soo delicious. I was bummed that it only made about 8 cookies, but dang, it was so worth it! I also loved that they did not require Earth Balance. It is nice to make cookies that don't call for certain 'vegan' ingredients. Of course I ate more than I should since I did make them as a gift... I had to explain that I accidently ate three of them... Make them, seriously. You will be impressed. Good ingredients, good consisetncey, good taste. Yum.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1iThBUGPDhliYmUsOcYlX1cg0Pvn8Nd3VwtvNluLJq5iLkD_6_Xzuxs31UPZtZ7B6JfF9Jl5UIUD4XpZb-S8FJ_uSJGvJB3fdkIRJHHrs3BGIIcAVcUnXahVhwWO40IMFxlmJpqWnXCP/s1600/IMG_0009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1iThBUGPDhliYmUsOcYlX1cg0Pvn8Nd3VwtvNluLJq5iLkD_6_Xzuxs31UPZtZ7B6JfF9Jl5UIUD4XpZb-S8FJ_uSJGvJB3fdkIRJHHrs3BGIIcAVcUnXahVhwWO40IMFxlmJpqWnXCP/s400/IMG_0009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471661697770126194" border="0" /></a><br />After teaching this morning, I met up with an ol' friend that I hadn't seen in months. It was so great to catch up with her. Since then, I've run around from party to party visitng. I am completly cashed. Finals, teaching my butt off, parties, birthdays, etc. I've been pretty busy. After the last party I went to tonight, I stopped off to get a bottle of wine and am now relaxing. Finally!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXj7Tjroxtl3RYjlYmGBLP7u9iuslgiYy2hknATDzBNPquW4ZDmLo7TZwb2OT5Flfwdc3tNRxgQcTKhCDSj5ae6bobN8luothM48ZVy5593FY3EaQlVpwtL1xdBME9YB3lCHSELx4amhR/s1600/IMG_0015.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXj7Tjroxtl3RYjlYmGBLP7u9iuslgiYy2hknATDzBNPquW4ZDmLo7TZwb2OT5Flfwdc3tNRxgQcTKhCDSj5ae6bobN8luothM48ZVy5593FY3EaQlVpwtL1xdBME9YB3lCHSELx4amhR/s400/IMG_0015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471661703346529922" border="0" /></a><br />I'll be continuing my evening drinking some fabulous vino and nibbling on some nuts listening to gypsy jazz. Mmm. Hope you are enjoying your Saturday! Love to you all.L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-60579694326042266382010-05-11T11:07:00.002-05:002010-05-11T21:02:25.644-05:00A Paw Print!I know I have been skimping on recipes and posts about food lately. May is just so busy! School is wrapping up and I am getting ready to go and volunteer for three weeks on a farm in Northwestern Wisconsin. It is going to be such an amazing experience! I'm pumped.<br /><br />This spring I took a printmaking class. It was awful. Okay, I'm being a little harsh and dramatic. But, I did struggle with it a lot at first and definitely couldn't stand the attitude of the professor. Maybe she struggled a little with my awesomness. My first prints were collographs that had multiple plates and I had to precisely align them with one another. I did an awful job at that... Most of my prints were off in their registration. It is hard for me to be very precise in a lot of things! It did get easier and I started to enjoy it towards the end. I really liked the last print I did of B's. The girls at my table thought I was crazy carving my dog into some linoleum. Once they saw it printed, they were jealous. Yeah, I'm amazing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yc1Vg-uHp2SUUlvph_ue7wbrijVT_au_3bsCLXPicmb3kpS0d1Jvq1J5DvMemcQiRrvbHVqEak7lOME6feZviYF35OQkLo7zYYisVNmSDFuCOigm9kwRsx5JzP5B0i1x1oKN51Ekj5z3/s1600/IMG_0002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yc1Vg-uHp2SUUlvph_ue7wbrijVT_au_3bsCLXPicmb3kpS0d1Jvq1J5DvMemcQiRrvbHVqEak7lOME6feZviYF35OQkLo7zYYisVNmSDFuCOigm9kwRsx5JzP5B0i1x1oKN51Ekj5z3/s400/IMG_0002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470197365226783426" border="0" /></a><br />Off to write an artist statement about it and wrap up my semester! Tomorrow is my last day! It is going to feel so frickin' good to be done! Well, until summer school... Expect some goodies soon!L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-42452547850809549052010-05-05T11:19:00.003-05:002010-05-05T11:45:19.538-05:00Viva Mexico!First of all, Happy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Cinco</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">de</span> Mayo! I am excited to see all the Mexican flags flying around town today. I love Mexican culture - the art, music, celebrations and food. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mmm</span>... Mexican food. Don't even get me started on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">luchadores</span>! We're fans, we have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">lil</span>' figurines of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">luchadores</span> throughout the house. We get plenty of questions, 'Uh, what is... That?' I'm planning on making enchiladas later tonight for dinner and relaxing with a cool <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Modelo</span>. How will you be celebrating Mexico today?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndDZupTP_7t3Ke65ck7YnKuAxSbP-fVGsKKtulerESJRSSQttH9Ma-jJajuv1jPEnTVyRTUxxFWn9vOZ1E3UIB-aNeOfLrTkxGnEfLfPwJuH_LRJvzeJnfIuJPQ1OV_A5Aq59W1WL9L0Q/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndDZupTP_7t3Ke65ck7YnKuAxSbP-fVGsKKtulerESJRSSQttH9Ma-jJajuv1jPEnTVyRTUxxFWn9vOZ1E3UIB-aNeOfLrTkxGnEfLfPwJuH_LRJvzeJnfIuJPQ1OV_A5Aq59W1WL9L0Q/s400/IMG_0337.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467826125029478882" border="0" /></a><br />This next recipe is Mexican, too! Well, it could be Cuban or Brazilian or anything, really. It's my own take on a black bean soup. When I got home from teaching last night I was completely famished. Thankfully, this soup is a breeze to toss together.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIjhoSC7QuNMYi75izXC44sjSdtLrROyubtvgLTz-nWoh1itElD0GxeZ4MOGB0SsC5EpRspBmffPrxtP-sdHbCIdicUfTMKnMOwe_ge5iICO7Buk2KiXw8EXhF_wO1oXChWf8oPfo9-jv/s1600/IMG_0002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIjhoSC7QuNMYi75izXC44sjSdtLrROyubtvgLTz-nWoh1itElD0GxeZ4MOGB0SsC5EpRspBmffPrxtP-sdHbCIdicUfTMKnMOwe_ge5iICO7Buk2KiXw8EXhF_wO1oXChWf8oPfo9-jv/s400/IMG_0002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467826136808873714" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Easy Breezy Black Bean Soup</span><br />1 tablespoon olive oil<br />1 onion<br />1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder<br />1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder<br />1 teaspoon cumin<br />pepper to taste<br />2 celery stalks - sliced n' diced<br />2 carrots - thinly sliced<br />2 cans black beans - rinsed and drained<br />1 can salsa- I adore Mrs. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Renfro's</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">delish</span>!<br />3 cups water<br />fresh cilantro and lime to garnish<br /><br />Saute the onion and add the celery and carrots. Let saute together for a bit before adding the black beans, salsa, water and spices. Once everything is all in the same pot, let simmer until your house starts to smell delicious. Pour yourself a bowl and garnish with some goodies! I cut up some left over tortillas and placed them in the oven at 350 on the pizza stone to crisp. They make a fun garnish. Ooh! Don't forget to put some avocado on top, too! Enjoy!L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-75946750597373720312010-05-02T18:47:00.003-05:002010-05-02T19:08:36.843-05:00Oh, peanutsI love peanut butter. In a weak moment, I'll eat it out of the jar with a spoon. Although that habit has gotten better, I still love it<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">would</span> do it if I didn't end up feeling like a pudgy elephant afterward.<br /><br />Today was absolutely beautiful. The sky was blue, the sun was out and buds are beginning to bloom on the trees. It even smells sweet. I love this time of year. Usually, in Wisconsin, we jump from winter to summer in a blink. The 'in between' time is usually lost. This spring we've been really fortunate with pleasant weather and I am completely in love with it.<br /><br />I spent the morning studying and working on weeding the garden. Bakie's ol' man and I are going to make some raised beds to put in our garden this year. I came in to make a snack mid-morning to find a refrigerator with a container of hummus, celery and and cilantro that has been in the vegetable drawer for over a month now... Pickins' were slim. Not too slim or slimming 'cause I tossed together a batch of <a href="http://www.yourveganmom.com/your_vegan_mom/2009/07/desmond-is-2-years-8-months-he-has-an-imaginary-friend-or-five-five-baby-monsters-he-feeds-them-and-bathes-them-and-makes.html">Your Vegan Mom's</a> PB rice crispies. Hot dang were these delicious! Between the two of us, we noshed on the whole pan 'till the afternoon. I hit my high and crashed. I took a good solid hour nap only to wake up and crave some more. Darn peanut butter haunting me in my dreams!<br /><br />Over the past two days, I just can't get enough peanut butter or peanuts! Something about it is just calling me. I'm blaming PMS or maybe the end of the semester... I don't know, but I've got to tame this recent crazy obsession otherwise I'll be flopping my way through summer on my belly. Reallly bad visual...<br /><br />To another nut! Cashews!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f0WmVErLsAy4U1MRNu51dZufmNncHUYus6rHkajylp8wmn3yTC8SlaiZ0bkCMc4gXG2NyNbLMkEPohgvd0dZcoaUNySDNnIksa0Se-AeWOl9F_KED26cZa-cEQMltCNPG2KYCFiDjqig/s1600/IMG_0020.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f0WmVErLsAy4U1MRNu51dZufmNncHUYus6rHkajylp8wmn3yTC8SlaiZ0bkCMc4gXG2NyNbLMkEPohgvd0dZcoaUNySDNnIksa0Se-AeWOl9F_KED26cZa-cEQMltCNPG2KYCFiDjqig/s400/IMG_0020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466827964080498162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Penne in Garlicy Cashew Sauce</span><br /><br /></div>I've read a ton about pureeing cashews to make them into a cheesy sauce. I finally experimented with it a bit this weekend and am completely excited to try it out again! My sauce was a little on the dry side. I either didn't make enough, baked it for too long or didn't give it enough liquid to begin with. I don't know. I'll post the recipe when I feel completely at peace with it. Besides being a tad dry, it had great flavor. Mmm! :)<br /><br />One more week of school before finals! I can so do this... Hey-- Have you seen my peanutbutter? :)L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-12041201559816642242010-04-20T14:51:00.010-05:002010-04-20T21:06:11.730-05:00Wisconsin- a true gemLife is always crazy and busy. Especially right now being the end of the semester. Deadlines for papers, projects, exams and presentations fill up my day. Between all that mumbo-jumbo and teaching, Baker's Pop and I rarely get to see each other.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-_if_ve1ZEKiSSd-DvottLglrbw8zbZRwFBptB8TPrAafKVByJXVzIeicNeNXJR3R2fu0eKmHxT1zJALGQNNZVtdHFzM2Z-SUF_kPZXV90bEOfhFZR1-UwgMHETX5Kagjw6EOhEFWSxg3/s1600/IMG_0071.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-_if_ve1ZEKiSSd-DvottLglrbw8zbZRwFBptB8TPrAafKVByJXVzIeicNeNXJR3R2fu0eKmHxT1zJALGQNNZVtdHFzM2Z-SUF_kPZXV90bEOfhFZR1-UwgMHETX5Kagjw6EOhEFWSxg3/s400/IMG_0071.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462403398362771442" border="0" /></a><br />He planned a darlin' getaway to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayfield,_Wisconsin">Bayfield, Wisconsin</a> for the weekend. We stayed at the most darling <a href="http://pinehurstinn.com/index.php">B&B </a>that had adorable rooms with a sweet bathtub! Never underestimate taking a bath. I haven't taken one in eons and it was so delightful to sit in a tub and soak. Oh, not to mention, they had great breakfast and were accommodating to various diets.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dDlYv47CrNw7yweOtynNBkEbSpzADmD1tet-yQde51U4ivdrES9H12IksQKWDYaKfO7soNI8F05Y3iePZeL6YsQo1qH-i-hk0VcBNwMEc3kYH1ZiE7qNx6aaeiq_UTTqXyv6b-0r9a9e/s1600/IMG_0059.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dDlYv47CrNw7yweOtynNBkEbSpzADmD1tet-yQde51U4ivdrES9H12IksQKWDYaKfO7soNI8F05Y3iePZeL6YsQo1qH-i-hk0VcBNwMEc3kYH1ZiE7qNx6aaeiq_UTTqXyv6b-0r9a9e/s400/IMG_0059.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462403389429911682" border="0" /></a><br />It was such a relaxing weekend, we were even able to find a yoga class on Saturday morning! We had great weather for hiking and taking in the sights along Lake Superior. We hiked along the Sea Cave Trail. It was so perfect, not too muddy, buggy or hot. Wisconsin is so diverse. Multiple breath taking sights, pure air, sweet people and a wholleee lotta cows...cheese and beer. I admit it, I'm a Wisconsin character and proud of it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0MfJFjUdUhOcsTu_GcJfVgTaFBZg3IoBRqKxIOSEUgax9pKERoMHJoO4jxzD1aAk_qQHDHaaNRxqkUAfhhsmBhqRN62QObxvVzdb1boCMUoqMgZwRqIlUJUm4Q1vyNKyVbLSRl8W7DzU/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0MfJFjUdUhOcsTu_GcJfVgTaFBZg3IoBRqKxIOSEUgax9pKERoMHJoO4jxzD1aAk_qQHDHaaNRxqkUAfhhsmBhqRN62QObxvVzdb1boCMUoqMgZwRqIlUJUm4Q1vyNKyVbLSRl8W7DzU/s400/IMG_0030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462403382413445010" border="0" /></a><br />Enjoy the pictures! I highly, <span style="font-style: italic;">highly</span> recommend you visit Wisconsin if you haven't and if you're from Wisconsin, enjoy it for all it's worth!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLHW40WTfC0QLBN52STq5_fKVNZwHodA4Tt4Tr6_xEVeHIwZ-V9RalgAQBKgy97NKnvWbg8d3tRxtCNGshTLHrX2-N0NCJETS2NkMvr4UJUaPvkPLY1HXg_L15c5pjiFWbxl2FBk72vUW/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLHW40WTfC0QLBN52STq5_fKVNZwHodA4Tt4Tr6_xEVeHIwZ-V9RalgAQBKgy97NKnvWbg8d3tRxtCNGshTLHrX2-N0NCJETS2NkMvr4UJUaPvkPLY1HXg_L15c5pjiFWbxl2FBk72vUW/s400/IMG_0068.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462403395347148834" border="0" /></a>Back to the grind!<br /></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-55254880660227213722010-04-18T19:31:00.001-05:002010-04-20T14:50:30.350-05:00In the Defense of Potato Chips!It is hard to tell what encouraged me to make potato chips. My original plan was to make thin crispy slices of potatoes. It was not until after I ate my first batch when I realized 'Hey, these are potato chips!' Sometimes, I'm a little slow.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRL6wxml6Da5u2RQTBmYuWCIqH2KWZ0eDl3a8qCEq7ivq4lLvKMVTQuklDPChIgGf6qE16CvcZ5wpp5dC35k-6YvjqPK1ozHB6lzfdNKYJccl0elQxX5GyFA2Pgk_zsbdfjVO8KsGbLQSq/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRL6wxml6Da5u2RQTBmYuWCIqH2KWZ0eDl3a8qCEq7ivq4lLvKMVTQuklDPChIgGf6qE16CvcZ5wpp5dC35k-6YvjqPK1ozHB6lzfdNKYJccl0elQxX5GyFA2Pgk_zsbdfjVO8KsGbLQSq/s400/IMG_0001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007308565986498" border="0" /></a>My first batched I sliced thin in nonuniform shapes pretty much slicing n' dicing wherever on the spud. They looked less chip like and more uh, I don't know, amoeba- like? It was easier keeping them in the same circular shape.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYn57k10sY5KhuGat9-tFfniOIg0hDqn-LYoHISJ2G327W4UdDSbsRB1m8F7jedOZUT15L-YRWoG4eshyphenhyphenvFzloa89RkGQZeKOPqsS3ilBEb85yKYedNsdUFZQMzqFX9Sv8wIHXhLTdcOCr/s1600/IMG_0003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYn57k10sY5KhuGat9-tFfniOIg0hDqn-LYoHISJ2G327W4UdDSbsRB1m8F7jedOZUT15L-YRWoG4eshyphenhyphenvFzloa89RkGQZeKOPqsS3ilBEb85yKYedNsdUFZQMzqFX9Sv8wIHXhLTdcOCr/s400/IMG_0003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007316780312530" border="0" /></a>I don't even like potato chips. Well, I do like kettle chips - Theee Kettle Chips. Potato chip fans know what I'm talkin' about! A year ago I was in Ottawa visiting a friend who is a feen for kettle chips. I ate more than my fair share when I was visiting. I'm afraid to buy a bag, I might turn into a kettle monster!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG-Q5o5ItYVxbYO4FckuYcrBjXzRFJ7c2GY_SvYGbnYMebwKH2V5vGEyomJnuafWq0VHMvgsDv5eMK4jTu2In1FxN6FJ9GVfpq9JbTcz8TRm37EGYDxQQKRGbpyg2b-A0SJvscvDAL3lY/s1600/IMG_0010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG-Q5o5ItYVxbYO4FckuYcrBjXzRFJ7c2GY_SvYGbnYMebwKH2V5vGEyomJnuafWq0VHMvgsDv5eMK4jTu2In1FxN6FJ9GVfpq9JbTcz8TRm37EGYDxQQKRGbpyg2b-A0SJvscvDAL3lY/s400/IMG_0010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007321621132338" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgITz9w7LdCu5zkooYvNgTX3ecvEbw_FT6yvDh1vi_Tt0exgQOL8c2J2aGZoV894Ns2FxeQebTmg1P-1X9LOIJIiLur1M2ReI6FhWMfzvBD4eHKaZWdMyHHyYNmuGE77QxvZsq4PEQdBW/s1600/IMG_0019.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgITz9w7LdCu5zkooYvNgTX3ecvEbw_FT6yvDh1vi_Tt0exgQOL8c2J2aGZoV894Ns2FxeQebTmg1P-1X9LOIJIiLur1M2ReI6FhWMfzvBD4eHKaZWdMyHHyYNmuGE77QxvZsq4PEQdBW/s400/IMG_0019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007649409204242" border="0" /></a>Eventhough these chips I made were far from Backyard BBQ Kettle Chips, it felt so good to have made some junk food from scratch. Yeah, yeah, that sounds disgusting. But really - olive oil, salt, pepper and potatoes in the oven can't be that bad- it's not kale, but it's also not some packaged hydrogenated crap. While I snacked on them, I felt good. I made something most people wouldn't and like <a href="http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/08/michael-pollan-offers-64-ways-to-eat-food/">Michael Pollen </a>said, "make your own junk food."<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfjBlqorKPq0_4rnlf17Z-k-Oi7uo6AB-l2Nt7Wxawks-bAQSeLC6rgtDenSGPHWaAOpwr_Aci6Y816Sk0jx2OIBY14VpXFV0FVinkNDGtV3vr9zNnXaHWasouQNlbmUqa0SNqah7ipvd/s1600/IMG_0017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfjBlqorKPq0_4rnlf17Z-k-Oi7uo6AB-l2Nt7Wxawks-bAQSeLC6rgtDenSGPHWaAOpwr_Aci6Y816Sk0jx2OIBY14VpXFV0FVinkNDGtV3vr9zNnXaHWasouQNlbmUqa0SNqah7ipvd/s400/IMG_0017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007643215904098" border="0" /></a>I made that! How crazy!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEiwKVaqmzWzetnOs5xaJh_ff08tkXqUtQn1dIDQKkdAu8Ru-KpZ2gLusHTc-NUyXPaEqTDZ6jF82mLaq6Kee9AUUyzh2vmiNygYSqMlVE2NVklBKNkslP5ZumwcmzLRxTCzctPLmuzUga/s1600/IMG_0022.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEiwKVaqmzWzetnOs5xaJh_ff08tkXqUtQn1dIDQKkdAu8Ru-KpZ2gLusHTc-NUyXPaEqTDZ6jF82mLaq6Kee9AUUyzh2vmiNygYSqMlVE2NVklBKNkslP5ZumwcmzLRxTCzctPLmuzUga/s400/IMG_0022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007652753022610" border="0" /></a>Above are the more uniformed chips. I dusted some salt, pepper, cayenne and garlic on them. Delish!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCMf28TheQcpk29wRdUmEUMUnRzTXF31QpcPIN-0JYKZQf1sCLGcRedJWTMwO_jT1tC3LDrCor574Y4clulfR6DX1IrcRE3IdFtFX82SNRDdH4x1tiZwTp2SjvYesPv2wcPWAl1wkZ1mm/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCMf28TheQcpk29wRdUmEUMUnRzTXF31QpcPIN-0JYKZQf1sCLGcRedJWTMwO_jT1tC3LDrCor574Y4clulfR6DX1IrcRE3IdFtFX82SNRDdH4x1tiZwTp2SjvYesPv2wcPWAl1wkZ1mm/s400/IMG_0014.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462007333053994386" border="0" /></a>Baker even liked them!L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-55927286578837291742010-04-11T07:37:00.004-05:002010-04-11T20:51:45.372-05:00Finally, some falafel!Is there a better way to end a busy week than taking a yoga class with a good friend and going home to make a delicious falafel salad - I can't think of a better way to begin a weekend. Well, maybe, someone making me falafel? I'm not that picky I guess...<br /><br />I can almost remember the last time I had falafel. It's been too long. In Minneapolis, falafel was at my fingertips. There were tons of shops and restaurants that had it to purchase, especially on the fly. <a href="http://www.falafelking.com/">Falafel King </a>and <a href="http://www.holylandbrand.com/">Holy Land</a> were two of my favorite places. I haven't had a dank falafel sandwich since my move back to Green Bay. Sad, yes I know.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTuiSxkG8DRTPAZ2pBtpYjvznmzAu-Yn-MMKJWvZhoPrxT73XAOAxIyv1FPbSAYtRl1gaHFzeaLG2li9-JHZ0sfxFbscO4Mox3IszUgAHT5WhJdT7hX-tlDsioiL97ywKK9tdbrE75Lcx/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTuiSxkG8DRTPAZ2pBtpYjvznmzAu-Yn-MMKJWvZhoPrxT73XAOAxIyv1FPbSAYtRl1gaHFzeaLG2li9-JHZ0sfxFbscO4Mox3IszUgAHT5WhJdT7hX-tlDsioiL97ywKK9tdbrE75Lcx/s400/IMG_0006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459061572450373810" border="0" /></a><br />Baker's daddy is not a huge fan of falafel. Granted, after the falafel wrap I made him with my leftovers may have changed his mind. I knew he was going to be working late on Friday so I gave into my falafel craving and whipped up a batch of beany-bean falafely balls! They were perfect. I placed them with some spinach, chopped red onion, carrots and tomatoes. To give it a lil' more oomph, I tossed together a thaini dressing. I tried to keep it as simple as I could. About a tablespoon of tahini, lemon juice to thin, garlic powder, pepper and some water to thin it into more of a dressing. For being really simple, it was so flavorful! Yum.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIm0SQacl7xVfwoKtrhcpHWyOJVKbiEEw8a4572bGa2eE33Cz3Wf8Sg7za8O40-eOSE97ySMRCR05QayARUniO0NMmSIaulmkQqDSdp97dO1gvRDxrVjThsn1cqUlxtOdCaw3rTSLH7C2b/s1600/IMG_0005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIm0SQacl7xVfwoKtrhcpHWyOJVKbiEEw8a4572bGa2eE33Cz3Wf8Sg7za8O40-eOSE97ySMRCR05QayARUniO0NMmSIaulmkQqDSdp97dO1gvRDxrVjThsn1cqUlxtOdCaw3rTSLH7C2b/s400/IMG_0005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459061563282623010" border="0" /></a><br />I love the simple things. It felt so good spend some alone time and make dinner, chill in my sweats with Bakes and be in bed by 10:15. It was like being single again!L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-19784938192263523582010-04-08T13:11:00.004-05:002010-04-08T15:14:58.210-05:00April Showers?I admit it it, I thought we were free of cold and snowy weather. I guess I was a bit over confident when I put away my winter warmables. We got a bunch of snow last night and this morning. When I woke up, I was amazed to see snow on the ground. It was absolutely beautiful!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-tZqKsFhIkljkiShTPz15bM5C2Fattb7n1zBq3RgKqYZyVqpEwKuc6l7wTPz6ykk_qzdjJzsU3tq9De4ur9ncZ_iyAee_zoB607m4nTLV3O5wZhjVhBa1DAklYjqdQx1y05yBAaNKFDp/s1600/IMG_0007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 423px; height: 420px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-tZqKsFhIkljkiShTPz15bM5C2Fattb7n1zBq3RgKqYZyVqpEwKuc6l7wTPz6ykk_qzdjJzsU3tq9De4ur9ncZ_iyAee_zoB607m4nTLV3O5wZhjVhBa1DAklYjqdQx1y05yBAaNKFDp/s400/IMG_0007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457840112884023426" border="0" /></a><br />When I finished teaching my classes this morning I ventured out with Chubs for a walk. It was so strange to see snow covering the trees and bushes budding!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSBucS-qCwjkIIPXLKIR5Kj1CFIHfSUEa0JAAzG8-23Jg7kuldz16useuW4Z-PisaQlxHU2JFPLsJyk87x4N-goU3mI4nTJZdwxQPs0ezFiXebQjCK-90ccLHMqq0dOTUNDJOWe7Gf2hy/s1600/IMG_0010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 465px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSBucS-qCwjkIIPXLKIR5Kj1CFIHfSUEa0JAAzG8-23Jg7kuldz16useuW4Z-PisaQlxHU2JFPLsJyk87x4N-goU3mI4nTJZdwxQPs0ezFiXebQjCK-90ccLHMqq0dOTUNDJOWe7Gf2hy/s400/IMG_0010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457840115660300962" border="0" /></a><br />It has been pretty dreary all week with colder rainy weather. Perfect for baking! All I've wanted to do this week is make delicious cookies or bars but have been to busy to do so. I did make a batch of smokey black bean soup. I modified it a bit from <a href="http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2008/03/smoky-refried-bean-soup.html">Suzane's</a> at Fat Free Vegan. I added a few more vegetables and some collards. I am really into collard greens right now. Delicious and so healthy. Between me and Baker's daddy, the soup went pretty quick. We both love spicy-mexicanlike food.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHFgpu8WcKVeGNNCqd5eSDuu0iwvF7qMQA1fQzpqUV5JjrNvmpJ_RP5Ntl4gHAu4sSwya0apQ5uY6zfC6rLkXUTP8ZK6tRcHTJOszfqGJLEJmlVUaAw2V_x08PhUW6laALAmRfLGSvMYn/s1600/IMG_0011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 463px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHFgpu8WcKVeGNNCqd5eSDuu0iwvF7qMQA1fQzpqUV5JjrNvmpJ_RP5Ntl4gHAu4sSwya0apQ5uY6zfC6rLkXUTP8ZK6tRcHTJOszfqGJLEJmlVUaAw2V_x08PhUW6laALAmRfLGSvMYn/s400/IMG_0011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457840130438946146" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy the rest of your Thursday!<br /></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-4805384599000958452010-03-30T20:21:00.007-05:002010-04-01T06:53:19.701-05:00It's 'Chick' to have Balls<div style="text-align: left;">I used to think that meatballs were such a childish dish. That's weird, because growing up, we never had them. It wasn't until my later years that I started to get into balls. That sounded a little off. In my early 20's I became a fan of spaghetti and meatballs or a meatball sub. Once, we went to well known Italian restaurant in De Pere, Pasquale's and I ate a whole frickin' meatball sub. Yes, that is embarrassing on multiple levels...</div><div><br /></div><div>As a vegan, I love making 'balls'. I don't care for any pre-packaged fake meat of any kind. There are way too many chemicals, extra packaging and aren't that nutritious. If I have a craving for a bean burger or whatever, I'll make it from scratch. The only thing that I'm not sold on is wheat gluten. Most home made recipes call for a little or a lot of it. I can't tell if the strings of wheat gluten make me feel light headed when I'm mixing it or if I get light headed from eating it. Sometimes I feel like I'm totally buzzed after having just a bit of seitan. It's hard for me to tell if I like it or not... </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E4ZVLy2ABcrO6zs_hJgwzqt7Xmv4n4YZ7jpTGmtaIm6sXAoztZefRhWTyfDu_XVd3D3LZvCxGSHlZgR7joB2L2FiWA49cjwK7VkZG6GNjXy5gCG1QMVF5Cjwh15U-ezABEOsCVSwXsKd/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E4ZVLy2ABcrO6zs_hJgwzqt7Xmv4n4YZ7jpTGmtaIm6sXAoztZefRhWTyfDu_XVd3D3LZvCxGSHlZgR7joB2L2FiWA49cjwK7VkZG6GNjXy5gCG1QMVF5Cjwh15U-ezABEOsCVSwXsKd/s400/IMG_0001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454615223770171202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>Anyway, I bought some chick peas to make falafel this weekend. I didn't get around to it and after thinking about it, falafel is a lot similar to an Italian meat ball. Just with chickpeas, right? Right! And I made it work!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLCtMRVjqflufQWwJPifZpV7Tsa1XVIIus0LeB4VcIe5vYc7lo1j4SrZA8BDxceZRbOKevGxl4NEDELdYZrGiVMATZqH_bgqTrYoHLGjOWm6bsK0hL5qeYXHs8QNNY36UMzj9s9_KnYO5/s1600/IMG_0010.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLCtMRVjqflufQWwJPifZpV7Tsa1XVIIus0LeB4VcIe5vYc7lo1j4SrZA8BDxceZRbOKevGxl4NEDELdYZrGiVMATZqH_bgqTrYoHLGjOWm6bsK0hL5qeYXHs8QNNY36UMzj9s9_KnYO5/s400/IMG_0010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454615233191343842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>We had a bunch of leftover vegetables that I wanted to use up in a pasta dish and rolled out some 'chickie' balls. These gluten free and soy free balls will only make you smile. They're easy to make, easy to clean up and pack a bunch of flavor. The sunflower seeds add a nice ground meat-like texture that's really filling, and not too heavy.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Chickie Balls</b></div><div>1 cup chic peas</div><div>1/4 cup ground sunflower seeds</div><div>1/4 cup water</div><div>1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar</div><div>4 tablespoons chic pea flower</div><div>1 teaspoon garlic powder</div><div>1 teaspoon dried oregano and basil</div><div>1 1/2 dried parsley</div><div>salt n' pep</div><div><br /></div><div>In a food processor process the sunflowers until a few chunks remain. Remove from the processor and set aside in a bowl. Next, process the chic peas with about 1/4 cup of water until smooth. It's okay if there are some bigger pieces, it helps to add a nice texture. Scoop the chic peas out of the processor and mix with the sunflower seeds and balsamic vinegar. Stir in the spices and chic pea flower. Add enough flower so when you form the balls they stay together and are not too crumbly. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 until crisp. </div><div><br /></div><div>These would be pretty tasty in a sandwich, too. Enjoy! </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-84772883831853792772010-03-28T14:50:00.004-05:002010-03-28T17:58:54.237-05:00Lazy Sunday madness<div style="text-align: left;">When it comes to sports, poor Bakie's can't catch a break. His Pop is known to be a little vocal when watching any sporting event. Throughout the football season lil' Bakes will hide behind me or find a comfortable shelter away from all the action. I defiantly don't blame him. Listening to grown men clap, jump, yell and hug watching a game is bad enough, when I have to listen <i>and</i> watch it, it makes me want to hide, too. He stayed strong through the Olympics and is now being a good sport watching NCAA Championship. I'm going to get him some earmuffs for the World Cup this summer, they'll be much needed.</div><div><br /></div><div>I would have opted to finish watching Twin Peaks this afternoon, but basketball won... That's more than fine 'cause I made a huge batch a popcorn to accompany our lazy Sunday afternoon. </div><div><br /></div><div>My mom was about to toss her old air popper, the PopCorn Pumper a few years ago. I immediately claimed it and have been giving it plenty of corn to pop. Air poppers are great! They're perfect for any popcorn lover that enjoys healthier options. I usually melt a lil' Earth Balance in it's little melting area and toss whatever seasoning I want on top - Garlic and Cayenne, Salt n' Sugar, Cajun spice and nutritional yeast or just plain ol' butta' n' salt. However you like to season your air popped corn, I guarantee it's healthier for you and for the environment. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNokhDBKJPEaSDLIyawjyTe6hDg8NeTSdrSSCaZW_LcHBoSh39jI6Hk1FhtPvX5MGKOl8ZxQbueQJTsPYe_7kXUOhGrTp6AkxGtT3B6XGHp7SjzEeb-no1whNjB-UZvX11YTFOmlAetGcr/s1600/IMG_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNokhDBKJPEaSDLIyawjyTe6hDg8NeTSdrSSCaZW_LcHBoSh39jI6Hk1FhtPvX5MGKOl8ZxQbueQJTsPYe_7kXUOhGrTp6AkxGtT3B6XGHp7SjzEeb-no1whNjB-UZvX11YTFOmlAetGcr/s400/IMG_0006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453821940721048242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>If you don't have an air popper and are interested in popping your own, start by popping some over the stove. Not only is it fun - it is! But, it's fast and easy! Microwave popcorn is a thing of the past! Once you taste how good stove popped or air popped corn tastes, you'll never go back to some crummy disposable bag of blah.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmuUD6KxjC9hZZbvQDSKKvygR6ZdiUSUe5hGubkBHOxre21m4J2b97-DNxdiKyAqLNvsjV65XStkplZyC9oAopEIWoXCj_IEWaE9-DwEQx5MwbIwacib6v_wVG224C6U7ecrd1Mf-VbJc/s1600/IMG_0003.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmuUD6KxjC9hZZbvQDSKKvygR6ZdiUSUe5hGubkBHOxre21m4J2b97-DNxdiKyAqLNvsjV65XStkplZyC9oAopEIWoXCj_IEWaE9-DwEQx5MwbIwacib6v_wVG224C6U7ecrd1Mf-VbJc/s400/IMG_0003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453821933614790562" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>How do you like to pop your corn?</div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-54883122870662345752010-03-27T17:42:00.006-05:002010-03-27T21:03:56.027-05:00Raise your glass and let's Roast!<div style="text-align: left;">Boy o' boy am I in love with roasted vegetables. I've always loved the taste of them, but recently fell back in love with them this week. I've certainly done my fair share of roasting vegetables - intentionally and unintentionally. But, right now, I'm really into intentionally roasting up some goodness in the kitchen!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9oVZpH83HC6-AOUEOlY0xq8wAZh-fEBHSEeTRNAAuuj8pOY_f9jjEvBm96eaXsnpfkuhLA1gzFPewWKJzW2iy2ET_vh2Y_FJ-3Kj_MzKPohXaIJs0EoTX_mewtilRsOwxOtcWaF7RFb6U/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9oVZpH83HC6-AOUEOlY0xq8wAZh-fEBHSEeTRNAAuuj8pOY_f9jjEvBm96eaXsnpfkuhLA1gzFPewWKJzW2iy2ET_vh2Y_FJ-3Kj_MzKPohXaIJs0EoTX_mewtilRsOwxOtcWaF7RFb6U/s400/IMG_0001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453452650515179426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>I went to visit my sister in Madison, Wisconsin and picked up a beautiful medley of baby potatoes at their indoor farmers' market. I need to say it, I'm ecstatic for spring and the farmers market in Green Bay to start! It was great to get some good local snacks and the potatoes I ended up roasting were just delicious.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uQTn0019U6krZbdUYirV4LNMX28s8eWlbdJJnTL2ci4rg6gpBCWpD51GqmWgS8mBgo-ayOT_Ej2NvviOo6HYDvXINgBRwyb9Ur6mqJXQro1-yzwIL8n0-bIapRINnXrlRSxZmkH3kihW/s1600/IMG_0002.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uQTn0019U6krZbdUYirV4LNMX28s8eWlbdJJnTL2ci4rg6gpBCWpD51GqmWgS8mBgo-ayOT_Ej2NvviOo6HYDvXINgBRwyb9Ur6mqJXQro1-yzwIL8n0-bIapRINnXrlRSxZmkH3kihW/s400/IMG_0002.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453452636838042386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div>One of my girlfriends came over for din-din and I roasted pretty much everything we ate. Once you've established a relationship with your oven and how long to cook things, roasting is a super easy technique to use when entertaining. I staged everything out and put things in at the right time. It gave me and my BFF plenty of time to catch up and giggle over some brews.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjEiTeejfM0ArGzPOc_0vwcyrWgX8FFPnt0vSxjGsE5_enkNi1W_Go-vJmzmxRdVImoPe61E3kKRF0aSM7da8CniBnUcILAI2-On0P21i0_7kla5OfhOIpZGFgx1xG1zdd77X496E5gPN/s1600/IMG_0003.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcjEiTeejfM0ArGzPOc_0vwcyrWgX8FFPnt0vSxjGsE5_enkNi1W_Go-vJmzmxRdVImoPe61E3kKRF0aSM7da8CniBnUcILAI2-On0P21i0_7kla5OfhOIpZGFgx1xG1zdd77X496E5gPN/s400/IMG_0003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453452645104447650" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>If you're looking to entertain with minimal involvement, roast! Roast your veggies and you'll have more than enough time to clean up your kitchen and enjoy good conversation with your guests. I promise the picture above of my messy kitchen was a breeze to clean up! </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-44040969910345953552010-03-22T09:29:00.004-05:002010-03-22T09:55:02.369-05:00Spring's on the way!<div style="text-align: left;">Spring break is over. I'm heading back to school later this afternoon. I've got my game face on for the rest of the semester. Believe me, it's scary.</div><div><br /></div><div>Minus my concerns about school, I am absolutely in love with life right now. Spring is coming! It's finally beginning to warm up and things are beginning to sprout. I am so excited to start planting the garden and for warmer weather. It feels so good to get outside again. Another and obvious reason why I love spring so much is knowing that grill season is starting. I guess grilling knows no season. But, when the weather is warm and friends can gather in the backyard and have some cocktails, that's grill season. Right? What do I know, I'm usually the person having a cocktail, I leave the grilling to Baker's daddy. </div><div><br /></div><div>Last night we got together with some family for a birthday gathering. The spread definatly felt like summer - spinach salad, potato salad, asparagus, grillables, etc. So good. Everyone brought something that was pretty dang tasty. I'd never made a potato salad until last night and the one I made was actually good! That's why I'm blogging about it. :) </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFR6V-n9_u-yuxIiidCLVtnWiHI2SM6ZyjW0zWd2NZh3KhrNVuvTEtoDH-IdISMXTw-E4JrOuLecDjiLimLpUP6b4GJMbvoE-Z1aDfpDMwEPp04EPZQPTd8_qJcwh19SvS9oTZLVg6hqGO/s1600-h/IMG_0002.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFR6V-n9_u-yuxIiidCLVtnWiHI2SM6ZyjW0zWd2NZh3KhrNVuvTEtoDH-IdISMXTw-E4JrOuLecDjiLimLpUP6b4GJMbvoE-Z1aDfpDMwEPp04EPZQPTd8_qJcwh19SvS9oTZLVg6hqGO/s400/IMG_0002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451470979231246434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Potato Salad to make Your Mom proud</span></div><div>4 potatoes - boiled </div><div>2 celery stalks</div><div>1/2 cup or more raisins </div><div>1 avocado </div><div>1/2 cup chic peas</div><div><br /></div><div>3 tablespoons tahini</div><div>1 1/2 - 2 tablespoon spicy brown mustard</div><div>1 tablespoon maple syrup</div><div>juice of lemon</div><div>salt n' pepper</div><div><br /></div><div>Boil the potatoes. Drain and dice when cooked. chop up the celery, avocado and toss into a bowl. In another smaller bowl, whisk the tahini dressing. Add more lemon or water to make it to meet a dressing-like consistency. Coat the potatoes evenly and serve with a huge smile. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-89389083000034500782010-03-17T19:26:00.002-05:002010-03-17T19:39:50.475-05:00Luck o' the Irish<div style="text-align: left;">Happy St. Patrick's Day! This year, I'm trading in my traditional Harp larger for a cup of tea and a relaxing evening in. Sure, this might sound lame for an Irish gal - but wait - I got season one, disc 2 of Twin Peaks from Netflix today. No way am I going out to cause a ruckus when I can watch Twin Peaks! People, come on!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Gmwu7uj0zqpONoCVS2GRatmElwxSDqkyu1szjX2nkN4vg9LOT16MBkfaBIwTWPptHjgg5xtEYo5l99eY2KLi__XJ_wmxW2wTbCZfFUjYJ57UcjtWQVIW7MpcDTGinljqfe-8DBeKJ-_v/s1600-h/IMG_0021.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Gmwu7uj0zqpONoCVS2GRatmElwxSDqkyu1szjX2nkN4vg9LOT16MBkfaBIwTWPptHjgg5xtEYo5l99eY2KLi__XJ_wmxW2wTbCZfFUjYJ57UcjtWQVIW7MpcDTGinljqfe-8DBeKJ-_v/s400/IMG_0021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449766624094465970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>For din-din I thought of making a shepherds pie but the weather has just been too nice to make anything heavy. I opted for some roasted asparagus, lima bean pesto pasta with sun dried tomatoes and peas. I tried to make the meal as green as I could!</div><div><br /></div><div>Be safe and have an excellent night celebrating! </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-12588121481416303532010-03-14T08:01:00.003-05:002010-03-14T08:27:45.925-05:00When in Rome<div style="text-align: left;">I've been recovering from vacation... We went to the Dominican for a friends wedding, which was beautiful. Beyond the wedding, it was quite the experience. We had interesting and delicious meals, met interesting people from all over and got bit by mosquitos. Well, I did. I came home with more mosquito bites than a tan, it rained 85% of the time! Boy, did those bites itch! I'm pretty sure I don't have malaria... Without any more details, it was an adventure and I'm grateful to be home with my lil' Bakies and cooking again.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnc7VqGRKM82j5rZkWavplIAgIwRCND8CL5VuMyEi0YwToq2UEDqqiGZnqOWKzH-5PMW8UJ82KSKvPsQUKyD00XTDCgdoEJLMGUUCfkbCX8aJURalW1-BJFLWRnsKGotyMRnpbcLVhea0/s1600-h/IMG_0122.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnc7VqGRKM82j5rZkWavplIAgIwRCND8CL5VuMyEi0YwToq2UEDqqiGZnqOWKzH-5PMW8UJ82KSKvPsQUKyD00XTDCgdoEJLMGUUCfkbCX8aJURalW1-BJFLWRnsKGotyMRnpbcLVhea0/s400/IMG_0122.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448477204989854658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Power lines in Santa Domingo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXu_y8NtIcOJ-mTubxjEKuTajXc0oaERrceUqFX3h6OrHlYCWt254rIQgUs8X1u96818H0IjP3Z1PLpnYPlukW1d-y74guCpeHRy471rKeq3YX6GC1O6lNTNKwJnyMNz7L2PVWflUUN92/s1600-h/IMG_0124.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXu_y8NtIcOJ-mTubxjEKuTajXc0oaERrceUqFX3h6OrHlYCWt254rIQgUs8X1u96818H0IjP3Z1PLpnYPlukW1d-y74guCpeHRy471rKeq3YX6GC1O6lNTNKwJnyMNz7L2PVWflUUN92/s400/IMG_0124.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448477213608972050" style="text-align: center;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><div style="text-align: center;">mangroves</div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyk8LdcGgll2livSz8_ui3BSsg64bL7vyLa9WUvaYEX-zjjxKjPX01Zm4LZoSlMOcfRNiV09iRvO9OsPiXnMxJSFR9lIhRmgfDkEva_rjOyE-X2_FWYBk1lR2ZCUTaaHFwBM-TUAqiEXT/s1600-h/IMG_0141.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyk8LdcGgll2livSz8_ui3BSsg64bL7vyLa9WUvaYEX-zjjxKjPX01Zm4LZoSlMOcfRNiV09iRvO9OsPiXnMxJSFR9lIhRmgfDkEva_rjOyE-X2_FWYBk1lR2ZCUTaaHFwBM-TUAqiEXT/s400/IMG_0141.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448477223231054114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">the beach in Las Galaras</div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-80425877336413097272010-02-24T08:36:00.006-06:002010-02-24T12:08:00.589-06:00Socksnatchers... you don't say!<div style="text-align: left;">I've been on a roll! Since Sunday night I've been making super nutritious dinners. After a weekend of eating birthday cake and PB cups I needed some hardcore nutrition. I've been really mindful in my sugar intake and feel amazing! It's astounding how sugar reacts in my body and how good nutritious whole foods feel. The sweetness of a fresh grapefruit is just perfect!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sunday I made some beanie tacos, Monday I tossed together a crazy delicious and spicy stir fry and last night made up this vegetable mash. It's loosely based off of Chris and Carolyn Caldicott's book,<i> World Food Cafe. </i>I was at the library on Sunday afternoon and brought back a ton of cookbooks and one of my favorite children's book, <i>The Socksnachers </i>by Lorna Balian. I loved her picture books as a kid <i>and</i> she's from Wisconsin! Anyway, why on earth did a check out a children's book when Baker can't read... Well, in our house, we have a sock problem. Mates go missing and there is a growing pile of mismatched socks. What causes this? I don't know. Growing up, we always had a mismatched basket of socks. I figured this was the norm, but Baker's Daddy doesn't think so. I know other homes have this problem, too! When we were doing laundry on Sunday, I told him the Socksnatchers took our socks. He of course, had no idea what I was talking about. This drove me to the Brown County library to pick up a copy of it. The cookbooks were just a cover. :) Even though he read it, He's not convinced there is a family of socksnatchers in the basement...</div><div><br /></div><div>Back to the food! This dish is amazing. The hot sauce which takes seconds to whip up offers such heat and complements the sweetness of the cardamom and sweet potato so well. I am pretty much in love with this dish. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uaq4AEeN5fbFHJTX2IH4SLkbnnAYIf2JmZ2GZyom8XbDWe1qndESYovWKx9I6CTyC_TbMVu1yzBOO81yj5HcCgqFBPbhTQDKY3B75euO-vfIAqV8wAE114u4ztKCil767Gz6PN58KrDx/s1600-h/IMG_0008.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uaq4AEeN5fbFHJTX2IH4SLkbnnAYIf2JmZ2GZyom8XbDWe1qndESYovWKx9I6CTyC_TbMVu1yzBOO81yj5HcCgqFBPbhTQDKY3B75euO-vfIAqV8wAE114u4ztKCil767Gz6PN58KrDx/s400/IMG_0008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441871688828927250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><b>Vegetable Mash</b></div><div>1 sweet potato</div><div>1 can garbanzo beans</div><div>1 package of chopped frozen spinach- thawed </div><div>1 1/2 cup lima beans</div><div>1 onion - sliced</div><div>1 teaspoon cardamom</div><div>salt n' pep to taste</div><div><br /></div><div>Boil sweet potatoes as you prep the other vegetables. Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, it's pretty versatile. Mix spinach, lima beans and 'bonzos together over medium heat until incorporated and warmed through. Remove from heat. Add a little oil to the pan to heat, add the onion and saute. While the onions are sauteing, mash the sweet potato adding the other vegetables with it. When the onion becomes translucent, add the rest of the vegetables and spices. Stir together and get ready to chow! </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Peppa' sauce</b></div><div>3-4 garlic cloves</div><div>3 serrano chilies</div><div>4 tomatoes- deseeded and chopped</div><div>1 onion</div><div>1 red pepper</div><div>parsley </div><div>lemon to blend </div><div>dash of salt n' pep</div><div><br /></div><div>Chop up everything and place into a blender or food processor. You'll love the spice of this! We had plenty of leftovers which will be nice to accompany other dishes this week.</div><div><br /></div><div>Together, the sweetness of the cardamom and the spiciness of the peppers makes this a delicious treat. Healthy and so darn flavorful! I made up some quiona to serve with it as a dish. It can easily be eaten alone, it's so filling! </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-6686053715586088112010-02-23T20:51:00.005-06:002010-02-23T21:44:39.960-06:00For the love of Peanut Butter!<div style="text-align: left;">Like I need any more fat, but frickin' A, these were amazing!</div><div><br /></div><div>I was looking to find a rice crispy PB bar with chocolate on top- Scotcheroos I think they're called? I did find a recipe for them, but stumbled on a much betta' looking recipe and hoooole-e-cow! I might not need a boyfriend anymore! </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Hs3o1pEsbWC3dhaQPi9tPa6Rf55ElpBmlZFzPDZai2hk1ZiHLbqdM_TOiE45Vv1obj7BKdpJ09grxBRAcNeVmifZzyrBdoLnsDMminfWO9hJs54xJp0s8NWViy_oL-BKUB0p11xADlPD/s1600-h/IMG_0004.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Hs3o1pEsbWC3dhaQPi9tPa6Rf55ElpBmlZFzPDZai2hk1ZiHLbqdM_TOiE45Vv1obj7BKdpJ09grxBRAcNeVmifZzyrBdoLnsDMminfWO9hJs54xJp0s8NWViy_oL-BKUB0p11xADlPD/s400/IMG_0004.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441641428062002754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div>You'll be far from <i>Clueless </i>if you whip these up in the kitchen. They are Alicia Sliverstone's peanut butter cup recipe. If you haven't made these yet, do yourself a huge favor and make them! Savor them and maybe even share them-- You will not be disappointed. Check out the recipe<a href="http://www.thedailygreen.com/healthy-eating/recipes/chocolate-peanut-butter-cups-recipe"> here.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqvjDCCNjl5tJFT7wdMrSJQesarbapB7hyphenhyphenPT-Ci41NNGVQcBqE1VWa3Hfi__JB07ajBEanP1jsyddwQv0jjNyxZuajb8JdTRHyjYWoi4HvS2VF0vOe4IOVsQbeagRn6rKoP1I9NmmjuuB/s1600-h/IMG_0029.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqvjDCCNjl5tJFT7wdMrSJQesarbapB7hyphenhyphenPT-Ci41NNGVQcBqE1VWa3Hfi__JB07ajBEanP1jsyddwQv0jjNyxZuajb8JdTRHyjYWoi4HvS2VF0vOe4IOVsQbeagRn6rKoP1I9NmmjuuB/s400/IMG_0029.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441641432841910770" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>Chocolate and PB lovers of all walks of life will fall madly in love with you if you make these for them. They are amazing. :) </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-71331309929298280472010-02-22T08:21:00.006-06:002010-02-22T10:44:55.636-06:00Happy Birthday, Chubby!<div style="text-align: left;">Baker's Birthday came and went. I am so happy that he's 11, healthy and still full of personality. I see quite a few birthdays in his future! Not a day goes by where I don't think I'm the luckiest for having him. He's the best companion and not to mention the cutest mutt around!</div><div><br /></div><div>For his party, I made up a carrot cake and a spicy pretzel mix for our guests to nibble on. We gave Baker a piece of cake which he housed in three bites- a true chow hound!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday, Chunk! </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3Yunsmla0teowxXe3REynLhGD9irDWWIECMLplVmKYOOxgDBk1EX28tC3GInl5vYouf6PY-O-4YQ1KtYMs8t1APXV3OuONjhznPmA3HzJ1qsF92053hv8GUifMWwU6WmiJBwHqXGlyg-/s1600-h/IMG_0023.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3Yunsmla0teowxXe3REynLhGD9irDWWIECMLplVmKYOOxgDBk1EX28tC3GInl5vYouf6PY-O-4YQ1KtYMs8t1APXV3OuONjhznPmA3HzJ1qsF92053hv8GUifMWwU6WmiJBwHqXGlyg-/s400/IMG_0023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441075776801046386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pretty sure he hated that birthday hat...</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMA5A5-0hIPZoFDg2lZ92srh89fX-_sM1w3kOMD9WxVqAyeCMDMnpYq43Dl-P6etT10UoAC-wTJz9IrjEOAmm3VYC7cgpuMLMnXwA_BTtmS2J_JeZ52KfEzyWby8HeWGGs8JurXxOxPjCW/s1600-h/IMG_0012.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMA5A5-0hIPZoFDg2lZ92srh89fX-_sM1w3kOMD9WxVqAyeCMDMnpYq43Dl-P6etT10UoAC-wTJz9IrjEOAmm3VYC7cgpuMLMnXwA_BTtmS2J_JeZ52KfEzyWby8HeWGGs8JurXxOxPjCW/s400/IMG_0012.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441075783346639202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">Pretzels and almonds... Yummm</span></span></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "></span>Spicy Pretzel Mix</span></div><div>1 cup raw almonds or any nut</div><div>2-3 cups pretzels </div><div>1 teaspoon cayenne</div><div>2 teaspoons brown sugar</div><div>2 tablespoons canola oil</div><div><br /></div><div>Mix everything together in a bowl and spread onto some parchment paper. Bake at 350 for about 20 minutes, stirring every 10. It will be a hit!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_PrlOpZJ6rSvueQZJADT_XEEvrUR_rACrBkwUJ1Agq1zhOJMZvvIYzl8jjmMfstuLhJPBjOpmDrIDx1I6Y1mtdKCBJ4tS1VvH8GlNI9_N7vr-jKKjz_5tEOuyFww3p5frh0GG5kBgzvW/s1600-h/IMG_0018.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_PrlOpZJ6rSvueQZJADT_XEEvrUR_rACrBkwUJ1Agq1zhOJMZvvIYzl8jjmMfstuLhJPBjOpmDrIDx1I6Y1mtdKCBJ4tS1VvH8GlNI9_N7vr-jKKjz_5tEOuyFww3p5frh0GG5kBgzvW/s400/IMG_0018.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441075787856704578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>The cake went too delicious and went fast to take a picture of it finished and individually sliced! It was that good!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41YRQJtUGtfDWj-wBTFfmiFtZVWxssEy3ZWSUoapSYrpIwaqQvLcws9SMkDWk7CLF2M_4rFYx5wAlzKkIbQ0tyNyGOzN3MazJf-Udsef3qqngaECqxeMZ2InlKBhR1GMVd2QffCNRf0Qb/s1600-h/IMG_0005.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41YRQJtUGtfDWj-wBTFfmiFtZVWxssEy3ZWSUoapSYrpIwaqQvLcws9SMkDWk7CLF2M_4rFYx5wAlzKkIbQ0tyNyGOzN3MazJf-Udsef3qqngaECqxeMZ2InlKBhR1GMVd2QffCNRf0Qb/s400/IMG_0005.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441074985756704066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Carrot cake sliced in half, ready to be frosted!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Batch of cream cheese frosting- delicious and very unhealthy! </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GeyakrI_SBnfL1aCQ0wbKbyuDJ-N03Y8GjBcXk3qsA0CYqikSf8EEzPcFwdOqeI_l6seXtthIPs40pjCMvN3gN5f7oeBa9OLK4NRyyauYsdZzJrTT7qcSEzp0jA2qHA4Na1auuF5sPTA/s1600-h/IMG_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GeyakrI_SBnfL1aCQ0wbKbyuDJ-N03Y8GjBcXk3qsA0CYqikSf8EEzPcFwdOqeI_l6seXtthIPs40pjCMvN3gN5f7oeBa9OLK4NRyyauYsdZzJrTT7qcSEzp0jA2qHA4Na1auuF5sPTA/s400/IMG_0006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441074991092714754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Prepping the cream cheese frosting</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Ix50Gwxs9zszursIITL3C-a94wIixNDCNHnu97PkHvH08dKJPNmdPsdJzUnNcrvAuXgNarnoF5Ry4PibXRY3VGnW0pavZnrNK33eP3h0uUVH2gUcOvUe8BAZs5J0GJKPK5yEWek-_GCV/s1600-h/IMG_0008.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Ix50Gwxs9zszursIITL3C-a94wIixNDCNHnu97PkHvH08dKJPNmdPsdJzUnNcrvAuXgNarnoF5Ry4PibXRY3VGnW0pavZnrNK33eP3h0uUVH2gUcOvUe8BAZs5J0GJKPK5yEWek-_GCV/s400/IMG_0008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441075002237476482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Frosting in process! </div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBO531m39scIMZfbFiZzMZRvFYMBXmYL9Wjdk46Z4b_Z6c4yC0DHepvvsxr2xywtrKnkz_NJ2f6WmF5NmfCR2JhSIIczECjiDhxvJq5X63NA3IB36Xhw7GcUpi9o5Pg7P4gsxEEtiTtzSA/s1600-h/IMG_0010.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBO531m39scIMZfbFiZzMZRvFYMBXmYL9Wjdk46Z4b_Z6c4yC0DHepvvsxr2xywtrKnkz_NJ2f6WmF5NmfCR2JhSIIczECjiDhxvJq5X63NA3IB36Xhw7GcUpi9o5Pg7P4gsxEEtiTtzSA/s400/IMG_0010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441075000024274466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! </div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-40549268283486088022010-02-20T06:35:00.004-06:002010-02-20T06:50:16.343-06:00Getting it right.<div style="text-align: left;">It feels like I've been playing around trying to find the perfect granola bar recipe for years. However, this week I had a breakthrough. I made delicious bars that turn out pretty well! As good as they were, I think they need a bit of tweaking, they were a lil' too soft and gooey. I'll be modifying the recipe in the upcoming weeks to get it right to post it!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeDhOWDQfOYqOoDeULR1FtO-sBgwPRsxHLMhTa1nU3OrABDzDV5VdTtuBWdljoTH00rGEqTyq6lqNqI65ihZQONWqnmtz1zL86Z8ml2jv7S4RW5ZjEpy7eOpLrXfHbqVkQU3Bf7iSIKR1/s1600-h/IMG_0002.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeDhOWDQfOYqOoDeULR1FtO-sBgwPRsxHLMhTa1nU3OrABDzDV5VdTtuBWdljoTH00rGEqTyq6lqNqI65ihZQONWqnmtz1zL86Z8ml2jv7S4RW5ZjEpy7eOpLrXfHbqVkQU3Bf7iSIKR1/s400/IMG_0002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440305460991887458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><div style="text-align: left;">Barley malt syrup bound everything together and made it a bit sticky. I'm thinking about adding less next time, another grain or maybe even some flour. If anyone has a spectacular, to die for recipe, let me know! Or if you have any other tips on how to make granola bars stick, with out being too hard or soft without being too gooey.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBFm3ohPmExvL9YYUiRDpNIXufmTViemv-8Gm1pQPCPhkP22l2-RgakJoKt6XEhcD60mNasyacaIbIVWrcVxXYN5iKOV73xERmNYY7d1x_xgL3b-YfAr5laq4us2YN4ngM0Ps49_Ok_4I/s1600-h/IMG_0008.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBFm3ohPmExvL9YYUiRDpNIXufmTViemv-8Gm1pQPCPhkP22l2-RgakJoKt6XEhcD60mNasyacaIbIVWrcVxXYN5iKOV73xERmNYY7d1x_xgL3b-YfAr5laq4us2YN4ngM0Ps49_Ok_4I/s400/IMG_0008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440305459895195042" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>On another geeky note, we're having a birthday party for Bakie's today! He'll be 11! Whaaat a sweetie. :) </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYyV0GN77auz0Epn8iTP_CgMVCwAQWUmmqTxcLogx1bVIKnTTIgboQ86NPMWMomJN83f2hSsFI3UH78U3JHmqbMOVLifLW3FyBDjMGgBoSJhjFKfW1s7xnII_EPa5BE_mqFC2QurZZ4it/s1600-h/IMG_0013.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYyV0GN77auz0Epn8iTP_CgMVCwAQWUmmqTxcLogx1bVIKnTTIgboQ86NPMWMomJN83f2hSsFI3UH78U3JHmqbMOVLifLW3FyBDjMGgBoSJhjFKfW1s7xnII_EPa5BE_mqFC2QurZZ4it/s400/IMG_0013.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440306213371268178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 263px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't he handsome? </div></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-36050647696853792592010-02-18T07:17:00.006-06:002010-02-18T13:12:49.673-06:00I take my spinach blended<div style="text-align: left;">Since I had my Monday bug, I've been trying to be more healthy. Most people I tell that to say, 'you're already healthy, you just eat vegetables'. Yes, this is true, but anyone can always do better. I'm not talking crazy amounts of change, just little things that I think will help my health in the long run. All week, I stayed away from any refined sugar, alcohol and anything that came in a package. So far, I feel amazing and it was such a little adjustment.</div><div><br /></div><div>I know my personality and know that I won't be able to completely avoid these things, I just need to listen to my body. One glass of wine is better than the bottle, sometimes... Whatever, I'm feeling better, getting more exercise and feeeeeelin' fine! Healthy vegans unite! </div><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday for lunch I was feeling too rushed and indecisive to make anything for lunch before heading to school. My body was craving nutritious and health things so I decided to toss what I had into a blender. Absolute deliciousness! I hardly ever make smoothies and outdid myself. They're more than easy to make, nutritious and so adaptable. Three things I love in a recipe! This smoothie fueled me all afternoon. I liked it so much I made it again for breakfast today! </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOOUb2LCvfMsT63fqGNiSM2-Gclu2ZDihMFqGWDKVVU5hpDwfjvwizwHDicG87idHW_4bcAkJpv9TYtifwvYg7zNvnwXOzb89bwWx0jSDilfKcGnZiLi74y6uV_IN902db1YAbPyrHYmZ/s1600-h/IMG_0012.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOOUb2LCvfMsT63fqGNiSM2-Gclu2ZDihMFqGWDKVVU5hpDwfjvwizwHDicG87idHW_4bcAkJpv9TYtifwvYg7zNvnwXOzb89bwWx0jSDilfKcGnZiLi74y6uV_IN902db1YAbPyrHYmZ/s400/IMG_0012.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439662618744547778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Can you see spinach in that? Didn't think so, you were too busy looking at my Lambeau glass.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div>Baker's daddy took one look at me making this smoothie this morning and asked, "spinach? In a smoothie? Really?' Heck yeah! For those of you who already incorporate greens and other vegetables into fruit smoothies know how good it is. The spinach helps add iron, calcium and lutein and is pretty much undetectable in taste and texture. Do something good for you body that tastes great! I promise you won't be let down.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Blended Goodness</b><br /><div>1 1/2 bananas</div><div>1/2 cup or more frozen blueberries</div><div>1 handful of spinach</div><div>splash of almond milk or water</div><div>a few ice cubes</div><div><br /></div><div>Toss everything into the blender and blend. If you don't have any almond milk, water will do the trick, too. The almond milk just makes it a tad creamier. </div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-77275381228402760332010-02-17T06:12:00.008-06:002010-02-17T07:01:59.759-06:00Bread making and the student<div style="text-align: left;">Success in making homemade bread, again! I don't want to jinx myself, so I won't get too high n' mighty. I know those of you who have had unsuccessful loafs of bread know the feeling; carefully mixing a yeast mixture, waiting with anticipation as your yeast rises only to find that no reaction what so ever has happened. Yeah, that was my familiar experience with bread, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm blaming some of my success on my new KitchenAid mixer. The dough hook is ammmaaazing! When I read through a bread recipe and it says 'knead for X amount of time', I just let the hook do the work! How easy is that? </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHoh3W8VDQvMRNKSDsQYSLxsFR4qHiHmqbT-OLgtbVAL5STNSTyDGNPPdC1bktj24g1mn4uHCOBCglRYLXJj8SYPTaSG9wV4i9-GETGDTqi6cp-1qzkN8w04yMcTqVxh-T3Z_0KjAUsJ-/s1600-h/IMG_0001.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHoh3W8VDQvMRNKSDsQYSLxsFR4qHiHmqbT-OLgtbVAL5STNSTyDGNPPdC1bktj24g1mn4uHCOBCglRYLXJj8SYPTaSG9wV4i9-GETGDTqi6cp-1qzkN8w04yMcTqVxh-T3Z_0KjAUsJ-/s400/IMG_0001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194004327580178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kneading dough in the KitchenAid </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div>I followed a whole wheat recipe and added flax seeds to it. The loaf came out light, fluffy and quite nutritious. I was just so tickled to see my loaf rise and actually become bread! Eventually, I want to play around with gluten-free loafs. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYckiaC2kRlKpnXQClpcCUiEQigSGZK9sujjld_sefn_LUUU24NGxCYjANuq-Cc4M9uxYDaxVCRbSi3BtvQuDOJmFiUg4P7vCmTjlbrA2HIFfJVXLF9KqTAEQyBLG2G8dvPwT0ZF6jVnWi/s1600-h/IMG_0005.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYckiaC2kRlKpnXQClpcCUiEQigSGZK9sujjld_sefn_LUUU24NGxCYjANuq-Cc4M9uxYDaxVCRbSi3BtvQuDOJmFiUg4P7vCmTjlbrA2HIFfJVXLF9KqTAEQyBLG2G8dvPwT0ZF6jVnWi/s400/IMG_0005.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194006700590258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dough after kneading and resting</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_idqjnFiAz0HXwYMLB-DyNJAQaq85sf4UtlHX7Wre_MJ0Adxe9JEhqMmu0RAqF1XSmfySGPB19OwWUlukkAT0Law4EXH7K363h3cHTl2_rhHUubh3PYd6cG2W7bfyluLpnd4v0jfMgf3W/s1600-h/IMG_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_idqjnFiAz0HXwYMLB-DyNJAQaq85sf4UtlHX7Wre_MJ0Adxe9JEhqMmu0RAqF1XSmfySGPB19OwWUlukkAT0Law4EXH7K363h3cHTl2_rhHUubh3PYd6cG2W7bfyluLpnd4v0jfMgf3W/s400/IMG_0006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194015517445458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dough punched down and ready to be rolled to place into the pan</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYGsYLvk2sc6GR_m2DIfrw9XIlEFK2z-xLMFPmS7GNkyNeEaGRxNMoDK-_01iQSo0YAl3DYJQC4D62eAqtNiq1Lgdvtf9goc6clRZt3dK_lXlSQYJhurt7KukaWzWVi4Dxcs0T8gVvPDi/s1600-h/IMG_0009.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYGsYLvk2sc6GR_m2DIfrw9XIlEFK2z-xLMFPmS7GNkyNeEaGRxNMoDK-_01iQSo0YAl3DYJQC4D62eAqtNiq1Lgdvtf9goc6clRZt3dK_lXlSQYJhurt7KukaWzWVi4Dxcs0T8gVvPDi/s400/IMG_0009.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194016817340194" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dou</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">gh rolled and placed into the pan - my first attempt was a lil' sloppy...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Bread making is perfect for the student. Since there is an hour or so of rising time, it is a great opportunity to hit the books. When the timer goes off, work on the bread, toss it into the oven, get back to the books, etc. In the end, school work is underway and there is a beautiful loaf of bread waiting to feed a hungry brain! How smart is that? </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDbNdRAzLyiOuVRh-n8y29l_-sGiAUvlyl1n4E2kHKruQ5fijy_voJ-kzHPzscPY5lBuOstCBFrpwuq5uRJcVshHcJrrQ3umr6AERD_PSK7Qh39ADzFv0FOzltdb5O8D5wIcbdu8nWMY6/s1600-h/IMG_0010.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDbNdRAzLyiOuVRh-n8y29l_-sGiAUvlyl1n4E2kHKruQ5fijy_voJ-kzHPzscPY5lBuOstCBFrpwuq5uRJcVshHcJrrQ3umr6AERD_PSK7Qh39ADzFv0FOzltdb5O8D5wIcbdu8nWMY6/s400/IMG_0010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194557755755394" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bread cooling out of the oven </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqbubQuH4Hv2EHqC_h18UAfivsJ3ar4YYwn2gB7OWvZfF6ylCTsfTvrGfm8loGk5VSw7OPeo3l8Y9e7mU0YtyYCJz_WAKl2wg-QPrN-g-yFJbDbcRIExn8ymEaLtQJ2qOm0TcQzbKfqCz1/s1600-h/IMG_0012.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqbubQuH4Hv2EHqC_h18UAfivsJ3ar4YYwn2gB7OWvZfF6ylCTsfTvrGfm8loGk5VSw7OPeo3l8Y9e7mU0YtyYCJz_WAKl2wg-QPrN-g-yFJbDbcRIExn8ymEaLtQJ2qOm0TcQzbKfqCz1/s400/IMG_0012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194563297444210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>So, if you're like me and need to take breaks when you study and enjoy baking- try to make a loaf! It will help keep your brain and belly in check when you are studying hard! </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzq5dslDNHji9Z05QXE8CX42Qrxu-FZfBBSiUTY8SBQnFTGy4ifM2VB3XcEUy1Tq81-sQig5_uA4pmMR34P_aHBQ98NGdtDvwe1L872kjusBf_HpO6irMACmz0R1h7y026k8BFL4ZL4SQ/s1600-h/IMG_0021.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzq5dslDNHji9Z05QXE8CX42Qrxu-FZfBBSiUTY8SBQnFTGy4ifM2VB3XcEUy1Tq81-sQig5_uA4pmMR34P_aHBQ98NGdtDvwe1L872kjusBf_HpO6irMACmz0R1h7y026k8BFL4ZL4SQ/s400/IMG_0021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439194571431837794" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bread sliced and ready to be snacked! </span></div></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-71551063342669818142010-02-15T10:55:00.006-06:002010-02-15T11:46:49.182-06:00wasabi + the flu = nasal discomfort.<div style="text-align: left;">I pride myself in my health, it is rare that I get sick. Sure enough, I have some bug. I don't know if it was something I ate or what, but I can't keep anything down. It's not the achiness all over my body, or the uncertainty that I'm going to poop my pants or throw up before reaching the bathroom that bothers me. No, none of those things are causing disease into my day. What gets me the most is that I made a really spicy wasabi-teriyaki stir fry last night and now my nose is paying for it after I heaved most of it up. Wasabi and the flu do not go together.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>After class this morning, I came home and crashed. I think Baker is diggin' me as a napping companion. As you all know, he is a semi-pro napper and one of the biggest joys in my life. I'm moving a little too slow and feel too weak to go mix ink for m print making class. I hate missing class, especially when I am sick. I think I'm doing the right thing. Last fall, I saw so many students come to class ill and it would drive me crazy. Sometimes it's hard for me to take my own advice and rest.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiWFHe3yKNVAtO5V1Qpn7sxxuwRVE8HqSDPPFyI7porZWCunYug4q7DlYSNmyqwJQ0vvcuuZMuJj9jvukA0dzuyoKWEyRgIiBSIelCgualY21moOPSJnJsRE2UWAk7yB5Pxif1dryolNn/s1600-h/IMG_0011.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiWFHe3yKNVAtO5V1Qpn7sxxuwRVE8HqSDPPFyI7porZWCunYug4q7DlYSNmyqwJQ0vvcuuZMuJj9jvukA0dzuyoKWEyRgIiBSIelCgualY21moOPSJnJsRE2UWAk7yB5Pxif1dryolNn/s400/IMG_0011.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438523832683176434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Rule #1 to a good nap: </div><div style="text-align: center;">Take up the wholeee couch. Learning from the best!</div><div><br /></div><div>Nothing sounds good to me. Eating, drinking water, moving - tell it all to wait 'cause I'm not doing any of it! I am forcing myself to sip water, but kind of wish I had an IV to hook myself up to. Baker's Daddy told me he'd pick me up some popsicles on his way home from work. What a sweetie, eh?</div><div><br /></div><div>I wish I had a new recipe to post or food to talk about rather than my fever and chills. Well, I'll leave you with a lil' recipe. A recipe to cure any ailment- compassion and a lil' love. Take care and enjoy your day! </div></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-90950647718288164942010-02-12T18:08:00.004-06:002010-02-12T18:37:59.541-06:00Bean there and loved it!<div style="text-align: left;">I've been a lot of places. Mexico, Ireland, Italy, Montreal, scary basements at 3 am... Okay, my blog title today is a little more than lame.</div><div><br /></div><div>Really, I've had the coolest experience baking with some lil' black beans. I am sooo in love! I followed Lindsay's recipe at <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/">Happy Herbivore</a> for her Black Bean Brownies and wow-e these puppies are a dream! The limited ingredients make it healthy and so easy to make! It's basically just bananas, black beans, cinnamon and some maple syrup or agave with cocoa powder. They turned out so lovely. They are fudgy, sweet enough with out the added buzz and as far as brownies go, so friggin' healthy! </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iEwCQK6Lik-nJoklSx-0pE9TcQFZ99set19BxNR_HDq03MRn3BD0P-j2AB2oB_QIW-a0QYPa_FgV3a-krCcoS3Irx_gO6cVMywr3IeZ6l-RZzgBuiTjGmIt4ez5Pcy4gKbl6_X4sGiEV/s1600-h/IMG_0008.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iEwCQK6Lik-nJoklSx-0pE9TcQFZ99set19BxNR_HDq03MRn3BD0P-j2AB2oB_QIW-a0QYPa_FgV3a-krCcoS3Irx_gO6cVMywr3IeZ6l-RZzgBuiTjGmIt4ez5Pcy4gKbl6_X4sGiEV/s400/IMG_0008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437519871308580450" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>I brought them to the fabulous artist I am interning for this afternoon and she loved them, too. If you make these, you could definitely turn any omnivore or health nut on to them no problem. Goodness, I'd pair them up with some rice ice cream as a lil' brownie sundae... It might not make the brownie as healthy then, but still delicious! If you want to keep it healthy, pour yourself a cupa tea and sip as you nibble these glorious guys! </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXpup30tL1o4aAzYkdZd4eHhnJzHVMMHZG7t6BfLr3gLl22ZoQd31POImFNGDXCsof-IeSWVC3fXtHE9c9pWNkx0U4Jfh91CZQC9z_5HtyAocTvXSijpu9W_-48ofh3kIZulEOdtIaFP7/s1600-h/IMG_0005.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXpup30tL1o4aAzYkdZd4eHhnJzHVMMHZG7t6BfLr3gLl22ZoQd31POImFNGDXCsof-IeSWVC3fXtHE9c9pWNkx0U4Jfh91CZQC9z_5HtyAocTvXSijpu9W_-48ofh3kIZulEOdtIaFP7/s400/IMG_0005.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437519872081052226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 400px; " /></a><div>Enjoy your weekend and even though I'm not that into it, have an awesome Valentine's Day! Love is for everyone, not just couples! Spread your love thick and far. We all know we need more of it in the world, not just on Valentine's Day-- Every day! Smoooch!</div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6360460128941299416.post-74509763481485501962010-02-10T11:21:00.006-06:002010-02-10T20:48:42.054-06:00Thawin' all Yous out!<div style="text-align: left;">Whether you're stuck in snow on the east coast, freezing in the midwest or dodging the rain out west, this soup is for you! I call it an all-area code soup. The nutritional benefits will have you feeling fantastic and its spiciness will help warm up even the coldest bodies!</div><div><br /></div>Besides the fact that it's freezing, snowing and dark out, this soup frickin' rocks. It's simple, spicy and so healthy.<br /><div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzuA3N56n6bXiLwCF4YMMAZG0ex3cU3VTIMn68cBbsMcVhL8sep2c293Kgj_SDhEdUhYFXSOZPUPSVhTDXv6FzcC5KIjcIvoPj_duVGWNFNFiLz4htHvV5LBtSqihUhYiJO5-XBMo-Y7xB/s1600-h/IMG_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzuA3N56n6bXiLwCF4YMMAZG0ex3cU3VTIMn68cBbsMcVhL8sep2c293Kgj_SDhEdUhYFXSOZPUPSVhTDXv6FzcC5KIjcIvoPj_duVGWNFNFiLz4htHvV5LBtSqihUhYiJO5-XBMo-Y7xB/s400/IMG_0006.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436811737240653922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><b>Spicy Collard Vegetable Soup</b></div><div>2 carrots - chopped</div><div>3 celery stalks - chopped and diced</div><div>3/4 bunch collard greens - any kind will do</div><div>1 package baby 'bellas</div><div>1 can white beans</div><div>1 bunch whole wheat pasta- broken into smaller pieces - optional</div><div>2 scallions - thinly sliced</div><div>5-6 cups vegetable broth or water - I used a lil' of both</div><div>1 teaspoon oregano and thyme</div><div>1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder </div><div>3 whole red chili peppers crushed - about 1 1/2 teaspoon crushed will do, too.</div><div>salt n' pepper</div><div><br /></div><div>Gently saute the celery and carrots. Add the beans and the 'bellas. When the 'bellas start to turn to a darker color, add the water, collards, broken pasta, scallions and seasonings. Let simmer until the pasta is cooked. </div><div><br /></div><div>Serve with some crusty bread or rolls. If you're really down because your car is stuck in the snow or just really sick of winter, pour yourself a glass of wine. Remember-- it's only temporary! </div></div>L2bakerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398628029257036891noreply@blogger.com2