tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15314196839686279942024-02-07T17:34:30.526-08:00In Love With Plant Based High Carb Low Fat Vegan Lifer Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-48649980928714170892014-01-17T09:25:00.000-08:002014-01-17T09:25:44.294-08:00Traveling Abroad - A Note About Airbnb <br />
Quite a few people have been curious about where my husband and I stayed during our <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/p/travel.html">6 1/2 week long Euro trip</a> this summer. He was planning the flights and train trips between each destination, a BIG task since we visited over twenty cities! So I was in charge of the accommodation. We assumed we would be staying in hostels and I started picking out ones we liked through a site called <a href="http://www.hostelworld.com/">hostelworld</a>. After picking out, but yet to book, hostels for about 1/3 of the locations, my husband bumped in to a site called <a href="https://www.airbnb.ca/?locale=en">Airbnb</a>. Airbnb is an online service that allows people to rent out their apartments, condos, rooms, entire homes, boathouses, and I've seen some campers, cabins and boats.<br />
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The Airbnb site is easy to use, informative, interactive, visual and has a sense of security. The secure feeling comes from the Trust and Verification Process which requires you to: belong to more than one social media, scan in your passport and another piece of ID, and have information about yourself confirming your identity - making others feel at ease.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWfn-4USTQIVA1vx4BBl4GWa2Gi-wgEzD1_9KUwsAHbE4IjTrZWZWhordJIPr1uKdVz2zJhnnVlQFni_FRmtm_o1PIRNEau6BUeFiJyrnsVNNxwiauQjoUr3gzuieDxqzIORIEIOd6YpQ/s1600/Gothenburg+Aug+18+-20+-+8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWfn-4USTQIVA1vx4BBl4GWa2Gi-wgEzD1_9KUwsAHbE4IjTrZWZWhordJIPr1uKdVz2zJhnnVlQFni_FRmtm_o1PIRNEau6BUeFiJyrnsVNNxwiauQjoUr3gzuieDxqzIORIEIOd6YpQ/s1600/Gothenburg+Aug+18+-20+-+8" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airbnb kitchen in Gothenburg, Sweden.</td></tr>
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We booked a total of 13 places with Airbnb and each stay was between 2-3 nights. Not knowing what the experience would be like before hand, we were very pleased with how it turned out. Almost every place we visited was exactly like the pictures and descriptions on the Airbnb website. The people were all very friendly, some being fellow travelers themselves. Some places were a bit more like bachelor pads, others you appreciated the special additions by the host.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T4NNr1-lvIvrnLVwH093wh8TSED2X-50sVuWYJC3qEEdc9BaLYBsNkjhYl-Jt4pGdlK4GJbg9eCxslDCzsF4wts_V7jXjLzfSlAEzEkKBsn5e8Q33rlq4MD8wlbWd1FkYY3i1Q7tkOc/s1600/Vienna+Sep+17+-+20+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1T4NNr1-lvIvrnLVwH093wh8TSED2X-50sVuWYJC3qEEdc9BaLYBsNkjhYl-Jt4pGdlK4GJbg9eCxslDCzsF4wts_V7jXjLzfSlAEzEkKBsn5e8Q33rlq4MD8wlbWd1FkYY3i1Q7tkOc/s1600/Vienna+Sep+17+-+20+-+1" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airbnb stairwell in Vienna, Austria.</td></tr>
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The key things we liked about the Airbnb service were the prices and the secure feeling of the interactive website. Also contributing to the community aspect and secureness are the reviews and ratings. Shortly after you stay at a persons place you are expected to leave a review, along with ratings, for other travelers to review before they book. A plus side for the owners of said places? They get to review their guests! Very helpful for the next host.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSe6SxsEfT4Er3p4F_HPMFcVxQ5maOCQbYAOWwu3f43XrhazM_10Yc07uSj3PBXeu74clb4eNylNMMwtRhSUw2XDaAYk5klJodwMmdU-7YJkyZOFCtj1hNaJqHfLgaUds12yA8uwDAoTE/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSe6SxsEfT4Er3p4F_HPMFcVxQ5maOCQbYAOWwu3f43XrhazM_10Yc07uSj3PBXeu74clb4eNylNMMwtRhSUw2XDaAYk5klJodwMmdU-7YJkyZOFCtj1hNaJqHfLgaUds12yA8uwDAoTE/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airbnb front entrance in Stockholm, Sweden. </td></tr>
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A downside to this way of traveling would be the research and time it takes to book ahead. Reviewing apartments and picking your favorite depending on location, price and amenities. This can be a big task, especially in large cities since there are so many apartments available. But if you like to plan ahead, are good with directions and feel comfortable in others homes, we would definitely recommend Airbnb for your accommodations.<br />
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Happy Travels!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-76607357190699180792014-01-07T14:30:00.001-08:002014-01-08T09:06:27.052-08:00Euro Trip Packing reflections - clothes <div dir="ltr" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After researching <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/11/euro-trip-packing-reflections-backpack.html">backpacks</a> for our vacation, another subject I made sure to research extensively was what clothes to bring on a summer Euro trip. Between conflicting advice about what works, what doesn't, what brand is better, what you don't need to squander your money on, what is important to spend the big $$$ on and buying everything ahead of time to test it out, I felt like I was going in circles a bit. Fortunately the last tip did me wonders. The more I bought ahead of time and tried out, the more I knew what suited me best and I learned from the experience. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Top tips when purchasing/packing travel clothes and items. I recommend bringing or buying the following:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Clothes that don't wrinkle easily, but if you do, something with a pattern or fringe that hides creases </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Items that wash easily and dry fairly quickly </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Clothing that absorbs or doesn't show much sweat </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Comfortable clothes that appear neat and tidy </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Consider a light pair of jeans that dry quickly, even though some travelers advise against it, for the comfort fact, I was glad I did </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Stick to a basic </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">color</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"> palette that is easily </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">interchangeable and flattering </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you need new shoes, buy your shoes ahead of time and break them in </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instead of writing a packing list, since there are <a href="http://herpackinglist.com/2011/12/ultimate-female-travel-packing-lists/">so many available</a>, I decided to reflect on what I'm glad I brought, what I wish I left behind and what I wished I packed, minus any obvious essentials.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I am glad I brought and why</span></div>
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<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15; text-indent: -18pt;"><b>scarf</b> - </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15; text-indent: -18pt;">dresses
up casual travel day outfits </span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15;"><b>dark colored jeans</b> - </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.15;">comfy,
light weight, easy to hand wash</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>casual cotton t-shirts</b> - comfy,
light weight, easy to hand wash<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>ruffled polyester tank top </b>- absorbs sweat, doesn't show shape, dries
quick, </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>cotton zip up sweater </b>-<b> </b>for
travel days, cold weather, layering</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>leggings (3/4 length & full)</b> - under dresses on cold days & flowy shirts </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>cotton black shorts </b>-<b> </b>for
hot travel days, the beach, or a night in </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>polyester PJ shorts</b> - doubled
as casual shorts or for under a short dress</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>short acrylic dress</b> - for
hot exploring days and over leggings on cooler days</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>polyester maxi dress</b> - for
humid evenings, or in between waxing</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>short polyester dress</b> - hot
and humid days, multipurpose, swim cover up</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>white bolero</b> - can
go into churches, hides tank top tan</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>3/4 length cardigan</b> - went
with everything but the fabric is rayon - wrinkled :-( </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>waterproof rain jacket</b> - no
liner, matte black color and stays warm (doesn't breath well)</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>thongs/g-strings</b> - take
up less space, dry fast</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 1.15;"><b>strap less bra & 2 reg bras</b> - worth taking 3, </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">don't</span><span style="line-height: 1.15;"> take up much space </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.15;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>no show slip socks</b> - for
flats and Toms, prevents foot odor and blisters</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>bathing suit</b> - one
was fine </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>Teva sandals</b> - very comfortable but dressy,
easy to break in, great reviews </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>Toms</b> - comfortable,
breathable, although not much grip I had no trouble</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>black flats</b> - needed
them in rainy weather, Toms became too dirty </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>chunky necklace</b> - really dresses up a semi-casual outfit </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b style="line-height: 1.15;">travel wash pack</b><span style="line-height: 1.15;"> - soap
packets for </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">delicates</span><span style="line-height: 1.15;">, lint removers, stain spot treatments</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.15;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>sink plug</b> - a
lot of sinks in Europe don't have plugs </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>carabiners</b> - for
water bottles and keeping day pack safe from pick pocketing</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>Ziploc bags</b> - various
sizes - for dirty laundry, small items or leaky toiletries</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVXEpUEtlXfVjWHDinb6pYoN10DMa3FvatPp0L-nbDizvHd0lYOsoWNlhxLzgZX4Up0k8WUlJ7eOGeEoaffqfhivh0cFDzj_gGqjqzsJyeUSTLEsCBmufgjBN4teQarl7B0UySjprrh8/s1600/IMG_1018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVXEpUEtlXfVjWHDinb6pYoN10DMa3FvatPp0L-nbDizvHd0lYOsoWNlhxLzgZX4Up0k8WUlJ7eOGeEoaffqfhivh0cFDzj_gGqjqzsJyeUSTLEsCBmufgjBN4teQarl7B0UySjprrh8/s1600/IMG_1018.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh471yLw_S22KgK9QR-gxBmZt24SwUAUgg0q7TDcG88XFMkw_LDsS1ysQNzme0qEpNGjtaV9LaKks7rZ65dLdKRBnvbF8dxbRbn2v9pqr7x0czYMjfDF7DkzkeFmpixC2Hp0oMQJ4QD9FU/s1600/IMG_1021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh471yLw_S22KgK9QR-gxBmZt24SwUAUgg0q7TDcG88XFMkw_LDsS1ysQNzme0qEpNGjtaV9LaKks7rZ65dLdKRBnvbF8dxbRbn2v9pqr7x0czYMjfDF7DkzkeFmpixC2Hp0oMQJ4QD9FU/s1600/IMG_1021.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I wish I left behind and why </span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>swim cover up</b> - can use a dress</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>blue & gold dress</b> - not practical (too flowy)</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>black dress</b> - a bit fancier, didn't use but nice to have as an option</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>took too many under shirts (5)</b> - only needed two</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>too many socks for runners</b> - we ended up not doing any running and only a couple hikes</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>delicate bolero and white blouse</b> - too delicate to wear with a day pack</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>navy 3/4 cardigan</b> - I stuck to black for outer layers </span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>black long sleeve cardigan</b> - wore my zip up sweater (more comfortable & durable)</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>sailor shirt</b> - the 100% cotton fabric wrinkled too easy </span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.15;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Grey dress pants</b> - OK but could have worn them more, black jeans would have been better </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><b style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">money belt</b><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"> - too bulky under clothes, obvious when </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">retrieving</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"> or putting away money, easy to lose money </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I wish I had packed and why</span></div>
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<ul style="line-height: 1.15;">
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>comfy and light Capri's or pants</b> - good for hot weather but easier to travel in than a dress </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>little black bolero</b> - used the white one a lot, would have been nice to have in another colour </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>portable cutlery and small fold up bowl</b> - for hotels/B&B's without kitchenette </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>crystal light packs</b> - for bad tasting mineral or city water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>sanitary wipes</b> - for spills, or bathrooms without toilet paper </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Kleenex</b> - brand of tissues in most of Europe were quite rough</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>mini soap bar & another wash cloth</b> - we brought one cloth, could have used two plus soap</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>tea (a few packets)</b> - better than buying a whole box that you then have to carry </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Overall I am quite pleased with how my packing research paid off. My list of what I would have left behind isn't too long and the items it consists of were light weight and small. What I wished I would have packed, I could buy along the way if needed. Buying something along the way is almost always easier than packing every "just in case" item and carrying around WAY too much. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some of the sites I found useful while researching for our trip:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://herpackinglist.com/" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Her Packing List </a><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ricksteves.com/" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rick Steves' Europe Through The Back Door</span></a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnsweringOliver" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Answering Oliver</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://happyherbivore.com/topic/Travel/">Happy Herbivore</a></span></li>
</ul>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-49135531247633279032013-11-03T10:38:00.002-08:002013-11-20T11:52:13.679-08:00Euro Trip Packing Reflections - Backpack <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">During the planning stage of our Euro trip, I took note of the enormous amount of advice on the web. From packing, to flights, to trains, from what to wear and etiquette, there is so much to offer from travelers who have been there/done that and learned the hard way. I took note that finding a good back pack can really affect your travels and was amazed at the choices available. After many reviews and trying on a few packs, I decided on the <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/product/backpacking/farpoint_55">Osprey Farpoint 55</a>. </span></div>
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The 55 Litres is made up of two packs. A 40L main pack and a 15L day pack. Having the day pack was very convenient as I used it almost every day. I would only use my purse when we would be out for a short while and could get back to our room easily. Most days we would be out exploring from mid morning to dinner time, and the day pack was always filled with food, water and other essentials. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm289FRGzmi7Ws_QQet7iBWsYq5Y6RY0W2-6Isk2kNSKokLdNWbz9HZ2rvf6ag1VEJwCcDWMRDArx-VvoMlqUUmoCGVxbaCAwQWICLcYSmj1wDctd_Kj8AoKG4Hbw2-jWfmcYhSxrlC0/s1600/DSC01891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm289FRGzmi7Ws_QQet7iBWsYq5Y6RY0W2-6Isk2kNSKokLdNWbz9HZ2rvf6ag1VEJwCcDWMRDArx-VvoMlqUUmoCGVxbaCAwQWICLcYSmj1wDctd_Kj8AoKG4Hbw2-jWfmcYhSxrlC0/s1600/DSC01891.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;">There were a few cons with this back pack, but they are small and can be easily overlooked. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Pros</span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very good padding on the straps & waist belt</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Balanced feel when wearing the day pack on the front and the main pack on the back</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sturdy all around including: tough fabric, strong hooks and clips, durable </span><span style="line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">zippers (even when packed tight)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Contoured shape fit my back nicely, same with day pack</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Can zip up straps easily and quickly when checking the main pack before a flight</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Side handle is strong, sturdy and comfortable </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Can make a nice seat if needed ;)</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDS2yUoPqa2UmmJiMBo1zxL8XHCYb0wtsHxxgF9LqCxBt77mx0IZSsxXVtZjWZOBBwSBhCodrtBP_8Q1MhSLyXwA8eh2p_3chjLM-mYyLg5Uhy50-j5zYVN7JR63Sj78F3aAygE6UyX0/s1600/DSC03738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDS2yUoPqa2UmmJiMBo1zxL8XHCYb0wtsHxxgF9LqCxBt77mx0IZSsxXVtZjWZOBBwSBhCodrtBP_8Q1MhSLyXwA8eh2p_3chjLM-mYyLg5Uhy50-j5zYVN7JR63Sj78F3aAygE6UyX0/s1600/DSC03738.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-48cb6b56-851d-4027-9b74-fa1132b36e75" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cons</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Day pack rubbed on my left arm when I was wearing short sleeves or a dress</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">The main pack shape is a little hard to pack (not much depth), but makes it easy to carry since it's close to your body and doesn't stick out too far </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">could use more pockets for organization, mostly in the day pack as I was constantly in and out trying to find small items </span></li>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">Overall I was, and still am, very happy I chose this back pack. Considering my husband bought the <a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/product/gear_hauling/porter_65">Osprey Porter 65</a> and found it quite uncomfortable, I am glad I spent the extra $$$. My husband didn't care for the straps on the Osprey Porter 65, they didn't have much padding and weren't contoured to his body very nicely. He and I both chose the Osprey packs due to the fact that they pack like a suitcase. No top loaders on this trip, we knew we were going to be packing and unpacking every 2-3 days and our patience would fall short. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuyw9ilXc5O8tNpOPfhHROk5EZ2qHI3ldsOUqVlw7k3iUFoOpQsJ53ybWmaef8bui4aoEBaTb3uXezXGTxg4RSXo4InY_BioYxYbs593Igb_O1g6fSwoYTUzcE3dkBSUsX0sFW-IGdkyg/s1600/DSC01892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuyw9ilXc5O8tNpOPfhHROk5EZ2qHI3ldsOUqVlw7k3iUFoOpQsJ53ybWmaef8bui4aoEBaTb3uXezXGTxg4RSXo4InY_BioYxYbs593Igb_O1g6fSwoYTUzcE3dkBSUsX0sFW-IGdkyg/s1600/DSC01892.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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When researching for our trip I noticed a lot of travelers recommended using packing cubes. Some <i>highly</i> recommended using them, while others used combinations of packing cubes, compression sacs and Ziploc bags. I decided to go with the Ziploc bags before we left, because I like a bargain. And that is the mistake I made, my dad has always said "quality or price, the choice is yours".<br />
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We packed up the day before our trip to walk in to town, as per <a href="http://www.ricksteves.com/">Rick Steves</a> advice, and were also trying to organize everything else before we left. One, we should have done this test at least a week or so in advance and two, I should have left more time to pack knowing not everything I intended to pack was going to fit. This would have given me time to realize that the Ziploc bags were not working, at all. I rolled my clothes, sucked out the air, slid the tab closed and stuffed all the little bags in to the main pack. As I was doing this, slowly the bags would expand with air and I would be opening them back up and sucking the air out. Since Ziplocs are so slippery, it didn't make it easy to fit everything in quickly and easily. I managed to frantically fit most of my stuff in and we walked in to town.<br />
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Up until the moment we left the next day, I was still trying to reorganize it all, leaving me with an unsettling feeling coupled with the anticipation of a 6 1/2 week journey. After dealing with the Ziplocs for a few days in London and realizing our next apartment in Amsterdam was near a travel store, I decided to spend the money on packing cubes. And I am SO glad I did!<br />
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I decided to go with Eagle Creek packing cubes. <a href="http://www.jet-setter.ca/en/pack-it-cube.html">Two pack-it cubes</a>, <a href="http://www.jet-setter.ca/en/pack-it-2-sided-half-cube.html">two half pack-it cubes</a> and a <a href="http://www.jet-setter.ca/en/pack-it-sac-medium-5.html">toiletries</a> bag. I cannot tell you how much easier this made the whole process. I could fit much more in the packing cubes than I could with the Ziplocs, the shape was better fit to my back pack (flatter) which made packing easier, the fabric wasn't slippery unlike the Ziploc bags so everything sat nicely together and I was able to toss everything in quickly and efficiently in a hurry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyaAXZzvp0f0_FADNxIw6YHB2JR8PSZmmjqtelqjdKH43erm18f7acsmZ-3kKDOGLOCn0aSPto3DtUWX4Vtwt210repaD3wdKghGsWxoU6s3I5KKJry3smsARUQ6A20YzTDS9fGGA51A/s1600/IMG_0791%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyaAXZzvp0f0_FADNxIw6YHB2JR8PSZmmjqtelqjdKH43erm18f7acsmZ-3kKDOGLOCn0aSPto3DtUWX4Vtwt210repaD3wdKghGsWxoU6s3I5KKJry3smsARUQ6A20YzTDS9fGGA51A/s400/IMG_0791%25281%2529.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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The Osprey Farpoint 55 was made for packing cubes in my opinion, especially if you need every inch of space. If you don't, and aren't going for longer than a couple weeks, you could just fold your clothes as normal instead of rolling. My husband did this with his Osprey Porter 65 since he had room to spare, even though he was carrying a couple pairs of my shoes most of the trip...:)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_EpQQcfpAPrnwjZJ8uRX3ZK-cM-fUQRkoBfRYDwxpit8xWBghwguc1M3E-f6Tr-z7scpP-JhcVRMw1fQvRaAmM6tZBYZaq_oHL06aEl9RRxZibWvSkwmDfR21pckUNvfKpW4fZi_ias/s1600/DSC01394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_EpQQcfpAPrnwjZJ8uRX3ZK-cM-fUQRkoBfRYDwxpit8xWBghwguc1M3E-f6Tr-z7scpP-JhcVRMw1fQvRaAmM6tZBYZaq_oHL06aEl9RRxZibWvSkwmDfR21pckUNvfKpW4fZi_ias/s1600/DSC01394.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I would recommend this back pack for travelling in summer months, and if you are travelling by trains and planes. If you are planning to camp, it may not be the best option as there are so many other packs suited to campers. We didn't do any camping, neither did we stay in hotels or hostels. We used an amazing service called <a href="https://www.airbnb.ca/?locale=en">Airbnb</a> in which people rent out their apartments, condos, houses, rooms and I have also seen some boats and campers!<br />
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Hope this post helps anyone thinking of purchasing this backpack. All in all, it was a success!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-70165228753050295412013-10-22T11:18:00.001-07:002013-10-22T11:18:27.563-07:00The Rest of Our Euro Trip <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I thought I would be writing a few more posts about the food during our Europe trip. We dined in quite a bit more after <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/10/london-amsterdam-scandinavia.html">London, Amsterdam and Scandinavia</a> to save money, and I ran out of steam a bit to take photos...or sometimes forgot to. I still can't believe all that travelling is over. I realized today that I have more places I want to visit than before we left. I wouldn't have imagined that I would be adding so many more places to the bucket list. I guess that's why I have always heard travelers talk about how addicting it can be. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWjUG99QBmOWEAh2aF1r2NVbVEO5KC0UFfe8myYH4OJs6Qqd3ESaGfT41G01t-KrflCnazfq7wbBdzpui-e_IlTAanEA72ux5yiKEgZcBMuirGAK-T0gDfqEd26Eg2_3xlJRX2FktxzY/s1600/IMG_0263%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWjUG99QBmOWEAh2aF1r2NVbVEO5KC0UFfe8myYH4OJs6Qqd3ESaGfT41G01t-KrflCnazfq7wbBdzpui-e_IlTAanEA72ux5yiKEgZcBMuirGAK-T0gDfqEd26Eg2_3xlJRX2FktxzY/s400/IMG_0263%25281%2529.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A very sad banana in <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px;">Nîmes</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px;">,</span> France. My husband says "French bananas are so dramatic". </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaurhp2QemQTKHvYIvQ3TFQjjEHeyRRJ0oJiYpeYnyLwDwfQR4InAwqOMigp3c-P_FYs1rPo3moXVKwyRYEBztx8LtkYQYFr3nHmB1M4RiKWclDJBJP_rzdjAEybGktzFU520O9vg_87c/s1600/IMG_0275%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaurhp2QemQTKHvYIvQ3TFQjjEHeyRRJ0oJiYpeYnyLwDwfQR4InAwqOMigp3c-P_FYs1rPo3moXVKwyRYEBztx8LtkYQYFr3nHmB1M4RiKWclDJBJP_rzdjAEybGktzFU520O9vg_87c/s400/IMG_0275%25281%2529.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We packed a small lunch and snacks and headed to the amazing Pont Du Gard in <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; text-align: start;">Nîmes</span>. We jumped in the freezing cold water after walking around in the heat for an hour or so. It took my husband a long time to convince me to jump in, and rightfully so! I didn't expect the water to be so cold. Very refreshing...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmshWIB3f0h1kV6E8Wi-c_Ix7Vtm2xo0JlAI4x9Sk6J7UfA1U8i-FPnZTC7srdRhgWFnEbiHeAepXmcuj3NIq0VJhlrzqvCFjectRQDTMcqc1KJqvrw7qx1VoxALI0zkbz0rOBEwtBko/s1600/IMG_0312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmshWIB3f0h1kV6E8Wi-c_Ix7Vtm2xo0JlAI4x9Sk6J7UfA1U8i-FPnZTC7srdRhgWFnEbiHeAepXmcuj3NIq0VJhlrzqvCFjectRQDTMcqc1KJqvrw7qx1VoxALI0zkbz0rOBEwtBko/s400/IMG_0312.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We didn't get to see much of Nice, France since we came down with colds.We rested up and headed to Monaco for our last day, a 20 minute train ride from Nice. It was amazing to be in the richest country in the world and only spend </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">€</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 (on bread and the toilet). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtqsuEKPPVdg-m_XWN9fLW4Lxtk2RtrSBSXRAJtaU_U2mn7Qz2ALUPOAwdx-vHilFuN5ftHjSwH9VHN6tTqwroxaDCA3VbYMsiwmML256UMmlzfLhkr7TSHhyHdOC0FqVlEu5LqBQl24/s1600/IMG_0331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtqsuEKPPVdg-m_XWN9fLW4Lxtk2RtrSBSXRAJtaU_U2mn7Qz2ALUPOAwdx-vHilFuN5ftHjSwH9VHN6tTqwroxaDCA3VbYMsiwmML256UMmlzfLhkr7TSHhyHdOC0FqVlEu5LqBQl24/s400/IMG_0331.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A quick stop in Geneva, the street and building art is beautiful! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX4SZ-B6BX5DybxcS6_y1KcZsrt9-9-IR2nw-O8Rv6HBXUHjuV2DFsQgZOIY_Xych7k3Ee1QKV9nE-n_K8LEpQIlM6aXRrnXE-EZ3NPAfTLDOa-jbr5dbADwLcX9xe1nEYF4ZRK9qP2A/s1600/IMG_0386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX4SZ-B6BX5DybxcS6_y1KcZsrt9-9-IR2nw-O8Rv6HBXUHjuV2DFsQgZOIY_Xych7k3Ee1QKV9nE-n_K8LEpQIlM6aXRrnXE-EZ3NPAfTLDOa-jbr5dbADwLcX9xe1nEYF4ZRK9qP2A/s400/IMG_0386.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ahh, my beloved Insalata Mista! I ordered this many times while we were in Italy. The tomatoes were of course amazing, and the salad was moderately filling thanks to the corn. This one we enjoyed at Napule é in Lake Como near the place we were staying. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jHZ-1y76A1t4xLB_gO8TCLYZ2Q_ZZouZMTdCZDVC4kBiW_pXWKWx6Dx0rmgoouEZLDR_hD6McNS8O48jtZNgsbivTitvRIqmZMLPJxnhMMLy7xRpA911Xi7WVl9YOZMeHQmQ0fW0lPk/s1600/IMG_0414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jHZ-1y76A1t4xLB_gO8TCLYZ2Q_ZZouZMTdCZDVC4kBiW_pXWKWx6Dx0rmgoouEZLDR_hD6McNS8O48jtZNgsbivTitvRIqmZMLPJxnhMMLy7xRpA911Xi7WVl9YOZMeHQmQ0fW0lPk/s400/IMG_0414.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On a hike in the Cinque Terre, Italy we spotted tomatoes ready for the sun in someones back yard. I would have loved to taste these after they were done drying. I have had store bought sun-dried tomatoes, but I don't think that is quite the same. My mom used to make homemade canned pickles when I was a kid, so much better than any store bought jar. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCxNIA6jc1fOP1c-Dx4iFODHjciQVhiApUqf-u5_yDdlP658_S6Rg6IM3KZ1lvaOVLXOg0o8LMs_zDIiQ7yNPIybxhGWTyCQNAoyj3vMJWLZGW0__56hiZe5bgvcbW3ooGmHh0Ftw4S8/s1600/IMG_0470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCxNIA6jc1fOP1c-Dx4iFODHjciQVhiApUqf-u5_yDdlP658_S6Rg6IM3KZ1lvaOVLXOg0o8LMs_zDIiQ7yNPIybxhGWTyCQNAoyj3vMJWLZGW0__56hiZe5bgvcbW3ooGmHh0Ftw4S8/s400/IMG_0470.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We had veggie pizza at <a href="http://www.gustoleo.com/Inglese/index.html">Gusto Leo</a> in Florence thanks to the recommendation by <a href="http://veganbackpacker.com/blog/florence-italy-vegan-vegetarian/">Vegan Backpacker</a>. Apparently a lot of bread and pizza dough in the north of Italy contains strutto which is Italian for pig fat. So we had to do our research before hand and make sure to ask senza strutto (without pig fat). This pizza was delicious and we went back the next day to order take out. They made it in front of us in a massive stone oven and it bubbled away under the hot flames, still bubbling as they slid it in to it's take out box. That's fresh pizza! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawq_c-tOOxZb62TuVPkPKAsq1PEALIxkilwsIGLkhm-H_CvUeFHCPfx9kJZPFBo947B-QDk7XcJoqeTDco-UV_8ady2EZlU5g4UkwyZy3f5DaxYyp_jyNOubSB03Fo6o_N8u7egebGtk/s1600/IMG_0568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawq_c-tOOxZb62TuVPkPKAsq1PEALIxkilwsIGLkhm-H_CvUeFHCPfx9kJZPFBo947B-QDk7XcJoqeTDco-UV_8ady2EZlU5g4UkwyZy3f5DaxYyp_jyNOubSB03Fo6o_N8u7egebGtk/s400/IMG_0568.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some more sun-dried tomatoes, this time in a market in Venice. I am still not sure why I didn't buy any to snack on...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKk8Aplxw49W3cFpT4dWDJWPVUAMRCk9XZrclsKdVUC1dN3_n1EFgULrMewYL8euawEVnU0JeWuSrv7MGQ11F92eCDQ1pWgx1FesVzW7720blA5U9WLFV-vIvxOgSJN8oEFHWg0eCmb4/s1600/IMG_0767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKk8Aplxw49W3cFpT4dWDJWPVUAMRCk9XZrclsKdVUC1dN3_n1EFgULrMewYL8euawEVnU0JeWuSrv7MGQ11F92eCDQ1pWgx1FesVzW7720blA5U9WLFV-vIvxOgSJN8oEFHWg0eCmb4/s400/IMG_0767.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our last city we visited was Vienna and we found two Vegan buffets. One was <a href="http://www.yamm.at/">Yamm!</a> (not pictured) and the other was <a href="http://www.harvest-bistrot.at/">Harvest The Vegetarian Bistrot</a>. Harvest really stuck out in our minds, the food was fresh, flavorful, filling and the prices were very reasonable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The atmosphere was great and the servers were very informative and friendly. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t0UcC-bLDMfIQPFnMIVYlEgRtoksj-G-x5YIPNvZhedR_sc9yIhEr3gOsirXdFMAz5wEtjmrr9Q2q7j7vnjvITZ97cKID-S63GPpPlo5DyX5mKwdiYQbySNvAHIbvL3wcAtV6mgvhC0/s1600/IMG_0769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t0UcC-bLDMfIQPFnMIVYlEgRtoksj-G-x5YIPNvZhedR_sc9yIhEr3gOsirXdFMAz5wEtjmrr9Q2q7j7vnjvITZ97cKID-S63GPpPlo5DyX5mKwdiYQbySNvAHIbvL3wcAtV6mgvhC0/s400/IMG_0769.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">There were so many desserts to choose from. I went with a chocolate walnut cake, delicious. A great way to cap off our last day in Vienna. If you are ever visiting Vienna, we highly recommend <a href="http://www.harvest-bistrot.at/">Harvest The Vegetarian Bistrot</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We flew home from London to Vancouver again with Virgin Atlantic Airlines and had the vegan meal for a second time. It consisted of salad, rice with mixed vegetables and a fruit cup. They also brought us two vegan snacks, one was a hot sandwich, the other was a cold sandwich. We were so impressed with the service and options with Virgin Atlantic and would definitely choose them for an international flight again. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-69194411074377933902013-10-09T14:47:00.000-07:002013-10-09T14:47:25.175-07:00London, Amsterdam & Scandinavia <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We started off our Euro trip with a short stay in England, staying with family in Stoke Poges near Heathrow Airport. Then we moved on to Amsterdam, Oslo, Stockholm, Gothenburg and Copenhagen. Since we visited so many places, I will break them up in to a few blog posts. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1YLY5X9Qwhr2YW7VPOyTWn0aFTskKhRKvBtekkoLXKBEkdSn3MY4CVwiYAuD_0E7fGdjeIQaVfHcxUU_BU9gjWLs_izXjX4cFbluih5ZIVmh9FcBq5g2tYN_RNJgQrm3WtkV-c_d6C4/s1600/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+19" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1YLY5X9Qwhr2YW7VPOyTWn0aFTskKhRKvBtekkoLXKBEkdSn3MY4CVwiYAuD_0E7fGdjeIQaVfHcxUU_BU9gjWLs_izXjX4cFbluih5ZIVmh9FcBq5g2tYN_RNJgQrm3WtkV-c_d6C4/s400/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+19" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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We flew to London on Virgin Airlines, our first time ;) We were really impressed with the service, amenities and options for special diets. When booking the flight we were able to choose a Vegan meal. The main was a chickpea curry, it came with salad, a bread roll and fruit. They also brought us a vegan breakfast roll in the AM. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLELZUnikMiz2sS22iZegiuN10csqSf__eUAcOJq4bzQ2s3t5ptmyRUxEL-iV8nV-lg-MrA-O2Ejlu0s7g0g8DJTGC1mVv6xub9l5MPh9_bGIXBz79z6ffk_dIoh1bIawUssj670A_VY/s1600/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+18" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLELZUnikMiz2sS22iZegiuN10csqSf__eUAcOJq4bzQ2s3t5ptmyRUxEL-iV8nV-lg-MrA-O2Ejlu0s7g0g8DJTGC1mVv6xub9l5MPh9_bGIXBz79z6ffk_dIoh1bIawUssj670A_VY/s400/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+18" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Best cup of tea I have ever had, Earl Grey at Stokes Park in Stoke Poges. Our relatives took us for Cream Tea, it was such a beautiful setting and the weather was gorgeous. </div>
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There is a golf course, exercise club, spa, gardens and a cemetery. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvt7Ied7Mud2j2zUnIupHj4TLCRdhHJiFEhyhHRutM1g3pFzdnq_3EGo5xAEhu285oYDNzES6uTaHoB7Hnq33-MkHpeiUgIsu4bHsa86qey4dzbgWA14fAVk13lw5-FKTYYOtdiRnr10/s1600/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvt7Ied7Mud2j2zUnIupHj4TLCRdhHJiFEhyhHRutM1g3pFzdnq_3EGo5xAEhu285oYDNzES6uTaHoB7Hnq33-MkHpeiUgIsu4bHsa86qey4dzbgWA14fAVk13lw5-FKTYYOtdiRnr10/s400/London+Aug+8+-+11+-+2" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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We stumbled upon a restaurant called <a href="http://www.lepainquotidien.com/">Le Pain Quotidien</a> in Covent Garden in London. And we were blown away! The food was delicious and they labeled their Vegan options. My husband had an open faced bean, avocado and hummus sandwich. I had gazpacho and a big salad with lots of bread. The waiter was so kind and brought us more bread when we ran out. Definitely recommend! We didn't realize it was a chain until we got to Amsterdam. We would have gone again but we wanted to save some cash.. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhe7jIqj3nBEowGez5_-DM41j78B7jinA_GeCXnl3gUvrknFK9LisK-iESTAAV0pxuDERzeHUAoSf4LvwHz9aRXf8tdI5O7x1PdCkStsVIqxKhsmdSzlDjhuyDWEpRYvdUSIy1Q9L24IE/s1600/Amsterdam+Aug+11+-+14+-+4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhe7jIqj3nBEowGez5_-DM41j78B7jinA_GeCXnl3gUvrknFK9LisK-iESTAAV0pxuDERzeHUAoSf4LvwHz9aRXf8tdI5O7x1PdCkStsVIqxKhsmdSzlDjhuyDWEpRYvdUSIy1Q9L24IE/s400/Amsterdam+Aug+11+-+14+-+4" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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To spend on Sorbet! Above is raspberry and mango sorbet, enjoying it by a canal in Amsterdam. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliiKOG1mpCO2KBkgb6meg_tsN_9qowU-9O95HI6b2tA5QQfJbKb2j-DSidOF3X5h1XjX7AqbcaNyNmc_qaF5rD6w1pSfYSU3y0IKQH-XVQxXjeYZbyA3gEoQXtoRQdhFaKhw5faXJkHU/s1600/Amsterdam+Aug+11+-+14+-+7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhliiKOG1mpCO2KBkgb6meg_tsN_9qowU-9O95HI6b2tA5QQfJbKb2j-DSidOF3X5h1XjX7AqbcaNyNmc_qaF5rD6w1pSfYSU3y0IKQH-XVQxXjeYZbyA3gEoQXtoRQdhFaKhw5faXJkHU/s400/Amsterdam+Aug+11+-+14+-+7" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another mango sorbet. Yum! </div>
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We dined in a lot in Amsterdam to save money, plus there was also a great grocery store called <a href="http://www.marqt.com/">Marqt</a> with tons of options around the corner. It was by far the best grocery store we found in Europe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4UBF5dQ7dy4y_bsZDz8LgLctk5-hmXOSbtMHz4NDMESv203o_x1W2Bqqdb0Dqv6RC_viwshNqjWyZySUTJ_LWsH8TS9BO7TnYY-FVkRsZVydWS76MGT4Gfz2bkJmbIpme9XHJ5z9Zc4/s1600/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+19" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4UBF5dQ7dy4y_bsZDz8LgLctk5-hmXOSbtMHz4NDMESv203o_x1W2Bqqdb0Dqv6RC_viwshNqjWyZySUTJ_LWsH8TS9BO7TnYY-FVkRsZVydWS76MGT4Gfz2bkJmbIpme9XHJ5z9Zc4/s400/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+19" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oslo was probably the hardest place for us to find food and REALLY expensive! I bought a 6inch Veggie Patty sub and a water from Subway and it worked out to about $15 CDN, ouch. The grocery stores also didn't have much for our regular staples, we would have loved to find some canned beans to make sandwiches... So we got creative and used potatoes instead. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKSpV3gfsctHT3tGX_kzqZtCvfBe-CD0523y4xs0X3-NxUxBeC_pYFn3DKxV_EA2F2LNmZ0OMih3Y8UHUNYsNITmveGkyNmWhgUIUSDHMzSOIIUjCaVRbzdG0znSFNy9ko02CqfDLnIE/s1600/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKSpV3gfsctHT3tGX_kzqZtCvfBe-CD0523y4xs0X3-NxUxBeC_pYFn3DKxV_EA2F2LNmZ0OMih3Y8UHUNYsNITmveGkyNmWhgUIUSDHMzSOIIUjCaVRbzdG0znSFNy9ko02CqfDLnIE/s400/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+3" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And reused the expensive subway wrapper ;) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQD2_g1Y8CAtHijFkzT9lkOv97c7X-hSHHG-POmTO27I4sst5i61B0-qQGKP_45BBuvSOIr8wtnrg7k4yWGZ0pN9S_Irn2oQ1IcMD2Iaj3lYJy3fMqs14rMVXa12b6bCY9-BltDpUqy4/s1600/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+16" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQD2_g1Y8CAtHijFkzT9lkOv97c7X-hSHHG-POmTO27I4sst5i61B0-qQGKP_45BBuvSOIr8wtnrg7k4yWGZ0pN9S_Irn2oQ1IcMD2Iaj3lYJy3fMqs14rMVXa12b6bCY9-BltDpUqy4/s400/Oslo+Aug+14+-+16+-+16" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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After a long day exploring Oslo, including Vigeland Park, the Ski museum and the Opera House, we decided to treat ourselves to a vegetarian buffet. I was so glad we found <a href="http://www.vegafairfood.no/">Vega Food Fair</a> so we didn't have to cook. There were a few vegan desserts. I got a slice of chocolate cake - wicked good! And then I took a slice of carrot cake to go, also good...but the chocolate cake won by far. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYlhQDxFTZfJCrRiAVDlIcU_qI7kRB7R4G5ERloA0kuzsZAojDM8uC5WhHN9pm-QcVFYKmnRIKGmEO790AyO3sD8xdk5PVZJXiK0BG077oHretwBdN9XMUDdKZidrpCs-XcT6PqVckMc/s1600/Stockholm+Aug+16+-+18+-+4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYlhQDxFTZfJCrRiAVDlIcU_qI7kRB7R4G5ERloA0kuzsZAojDM8uC5WhHN9pm-QcVFYKmnRIKGmEO790AyO3sD8xdk5PVZJXiK0BG077oHretwBdN9XMUDdKZidrpCs-XcT6PqVckMc/s400/Stockholm+Aug+16+-+18+-+4" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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In Stockholm we went to another vegetarian buffet called <a href="http://gastrogate.com/restaurang/hermitage/">Hermitage</a>. The food was so fresh and comforting on a dreary day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeD51AMDeNN4rZmf_tAPd20hf_iUyTP3_l3AL3SwsLDqV7FOh4CZBGTZ3s3bM_17zpEHA2_cUxJhQPGfyfBU2yFaOaVuQBTVfSn8CNk6l-gEW2b90PIVpXCUatsIsVUirti6GA7Z1l4I/s1600/Stockholm+Aug+16+-+18+-+11" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeD51AMDeNN4rZmf_tAPd20hf_iUyTP3_l3AL3SwsLDqV7FOh4CZBGTZ3s3bM_17zpEHA2_cUxJhQPGfyfBU2yFaOaVuQBTVfSn8CNk6l-gEW2b90PIVpXCUatsIsVUirti6GA7Z1l4I/s400/Stockholm+Aug+16+-+18+-+11" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Everything on the menu was vegan except for the lasagna. The mixed vegetables were my favorite, the spices were perfect. Highly recommend if you are in Stockholm! </div>
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There weren't many options for lunch and dinner in Gothenburg, but the grocery store was well equipped. We decided to make pasta and went with this one because of the name. You don't have to be mature to make pasta :) </div>
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I didn't take any food photos in Copenhagen since we ate pretty plain. But I'd rather pack a lunch and be able to enjoy a view like this one. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-1296951815331052622013-09-23T10:16:00.001-07:002013-09-30T09:12:03.990-07:00June and July Highlights <div dir="ltr">
I haven't been keeping up with blogging for the last while. The reason is very exciting though. My husband and I went to Europe this summer! I didn't realize how much planning is involved and I only did half of it, phew. A food related and exciting part (for me) of the planning was how we were going to manage eating plant strong while travelling. Luckily, there are many others that have shared this information. I was looking for tips on eating vegan, plant based, healthy and budget friendly. After a lot of research and bookmarking a few restaurants via <a href="http://www.happycow.net/">Happy Cow</a>, our main staples ended up being: oatmeal, bread, fresh local fruit and veg, more bread, hummus, canned beans, pasta, quick brown rice and rye crackers. A few websites that gave me these tips are: <a href="http://veganbackpacker.com/">Vegan Backpacker</a>, <a href="http://www.healthyveganrecipes.net/">Healthy Vegan Recipes</a> and <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/">Happy Herbivore</a>.</div>
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In retrospect, it was much easier to stay vegan than (whole foods) plant based since we visited so many cities and had a lot of travel days. I ended up eating more processed foods than I had planned and found it a little difficult to avoid added oils. That said, this trip is probably the only one of its kind we'll do. We were gone over 6 weeks and visited almost 20 cities! As incredible as it was, I do miss my whole foods plant strong lifestyle and am excited to get back at it. </div>
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Here are a few food highlights from June and July before we left for our trip. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiidnJnWYVJe6iJMvbR_JTOSYSnc1Xbq7kLsANv5TdCb9afgkRkcP11dxRtkyZTVEVXASYWCZgzIYfzMZ2c4BHDoFNe4bx_5t7UqyZ5KbjmAh420kTesHABF38Iz9NU9bq0yyB97QxgM/s1600/IMG_0501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBiidnJnWYVJe6iJMvbR_JTOSYSnc1Xbq7kLsANv5TdCb9afgkRkcP11dxRtkyZTVEVXASYWCZgzIYfzMZ2c4BHDoFNe4bx_5t7UqyZ5KbjmAh420kTesHABF38Iz9NU9bq0yyB97QxgM/s640/IMG_0501.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Potato chickpea curry. I used the base of <a href="http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2010/12/curried-cauliflower-sweet-potato-soup.html">Fat Free Vegan Kitchen's Cauliflower Curry Soup</a> and replaced the cauliflower and sweet potato with Yukon Gold potatoes. I do this with recipes when I don't feel like making a special shopping trip for the specific ingredients. This especially works with soups, use a base you like and see if the ingredients make a good fit. Sometimes, you can create something that's even better than what you started with! Or sometimes you end up with a bust, but that is how you find out what doesn't work, which is equally as important in my opinion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgseBg776NAy6U_3oGE1STrXkdowIvQaEpMpMQOvC7Ght-xa8ZE8b67fLU1VZd9nsBPxMi0pvYTYv7jEP1ICTSM6ioWyTboQJbvQFiWkb5fE1HPBNtEwl90ZPKFa5T4rV6qGaf4KUTX8/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgseBg776NAy6U_3oGE1STrXkdowIvQaEpMpMQOvC7Ght-xa8ZE8b67fLU1VZd9nsBPxMi0pvYTYv7jEP1ICTSM6ioWyTboQJbvQFiWkb5fE1HPBNtEwl90ZPKFa5T4rV6qGaf4KUTX8/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Donut Peach from <a href="http://kinsfarmmarket.com/index.php/locations">Kin's Farm Market</a> on top of spinach. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtCoWrhWv7rwXn2LK6YjGY9Bm3xf23KahC0yCdKz4iCRZbT3Hqfs1WUOxgKozl11tf6PGSoX0HAYZm5AiuRdNaK_OdwlPgnBdC04l_zQVoPQgEPuR3CybJ86eC9H76YoJjkJZdvglNvw/s1600/IMG_0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtCoWrhWv7rwXn2LK6YjGY9Bm3xf23KahC0yCdKz4iCRZbT3Hqfs1WUOxgKozl11tf6PGSoX0HAYZm5AiuRdNaK_OdwlPgnBdC04l_zQVoPQgEPuR3CybJ86eC9H76YoJjkJZdvglNvw/s1600/IMG_0024.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kale from my parent's garden. I didn't realize that fresh really is better, until I tasted it ;) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XSt6OuqEZM2I-gtu7opPjIVlgIlUXMVoo9Gqpk7nawQ8XBxIqVUuPPagwmRqT_VIvOhrbr_gIbkQCcvNAoDjGqpj_gv_YOKsCtWbEpneM4oGNAvX0kpIqBJdH9AMTwR7r93wRFauoQE/s1600/IMG_0046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XSt6OuqEZM2I-gtu7opPjIVlgIlUXMVoo9Gqpk7nawQ8XBxIqVUuPPagwmRqT_VIvOhrbr_gIbkQCcvNAoDjGqpj_gv_YOKsCtWbEpneM4oGNAvX0kpIqBJdH9AMTwR7r93wRFauoQE/s1600/IMG_0046.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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When my parent's were away in June I pulled out my mom's <a href="http://www.epicureselections.com/en/products/food/healthy-snacks/4215/chipster/">Chipster</a> and made some sweet potato chips. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwY2-qIyu6FsGEc8S6OAwP9p4edjRx9WYneKff76yAzjaUWbC1i4iVy_jcwi81M4hmnmWx5k_N64j_yBicCaLst3D-ZE32WIFGlickwWeWD81R0ot5Ixm3YTwwPUErbuhGmvVLeTAkYQ/s1600/IMG_0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwY2-qIyu6FsGEc8S6OAwP9p4edjRx9WYneKff76yAzjaUWbC1i4iVy_jcwi81M4hmnmWx5k_N64j_yBicCaLst3D-ZE32WIFGlickwWeWD81R0ot5Ixm3YTwwPUErbuhGmvVLeTAkYQ/s1600/IMG_0047.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And they turned out pretty good! A little uneven in some spots, but tasty. I microwaved them a little longer than the instructions for regular potatoes adding 30 secs at a time until there were no soft spots left. They were crispy, sweet and oil free! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsx0gxiLBJROnaWfV6WWu5-m4yaPGwRAV2LJp05Fj-sU9NwRzGc_ezXDwmCh9UUuYEolXg0E9c5cG7tq3RIsedwhLNbBUwgm_SLSyMP9rDFLKkc-hwcaElUJmsABtnCcpqine_dbhOiHg/s1600/IMG_0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsx0gxiLBJROnaWfV6WWu5-m4yaPGwRAV2LJp05Fj-sU9NwRzGc_ezXDwmCh9UUuYEolXg0E9c5cG7tq3RIsedwhLNbBUwgm_SLSyMP9rDFLKkc-hwcaElUJmsABtnCcpqine_dbhOiHg/s1600/IMG_0054.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I went to a race by myself, it was my first time going alone and I'm glad I pushed myself to go. It was the <a href="http://www.tryevents.ca/index.php?Itemid=69&id=29&option=com_content&task=view">Canada Day Rock</a> in White Rock. A very hot day, so I'm glad we had an early start. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmr8CSBTFymVrLWk_e7j8KdB2J9JpS993vxoC7sWhAGL4kTPHIpVHsvfLmayNAIpKBgzfeaw0vQsiY_4KIfFght2MeXghSZjGKsisouagelssaNAfhxduaLFaG1IUmihi6kubCnNA6198/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmr8CSBTFymVrLWk_e7j8KdB2J9JpS993vxoC7sWhAGL4kTPHIpVHsvfLmayNAIpKBgzfeaw0vQsiY_4KIfFght2MeXghSZjGKsisouagelssaNAfhxduaLFaG1IUmihi6kubCnNA6198/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I ate the other half before the photo - so hungry! </td></tr>
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Since the post race snacks were pancakes, brownies and birthday cake...I decided to look for an option that would keep me feeling good. There was a small restaurant across from the start/finish line called <a href="https://plus.google.com/107183010908519011404/about?gl=ca&hl=en">Karmel cafe</a>. I ordered a vegetable wrap with no sauce and was happy to see some extra veg on the side. Great snack after running on a hot summer day. </div>
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Now that we are back, I plan to write a little about our travels including packing, food and restaurants. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-89384070252744903132013-05-27T12:24:00.000-07:002013-07-08T12:06:12.632-07:00Sunday Running Happened So Fast <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvv3-9nNOmUN6EljcUeSK54h5JenielKUHp9v5FJFc062HloZotlDEgU-pd-4QQvnEsP1vVGxE-jRNX69AmAMb4qbW-j52kurC_QTrqwata0inQ_DzqzQj3BhFPcGS0RDkGmXhfrC-zk/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvv3-9nNOmUN6EljcUeSK54h5JenielKUHp9v5FJFc062HloZotlDEgU-pd-4QQvnEsP1vVGxE-jRNX69AmAMb4qbW-j52kurC_QTrqwata0inQ_DzqzQj3BhFPcGS0RDkGmXhfrC-zk/s1600/IMG_0446.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I rarely cook onions as I like them caramelized and they don't go with lazy cooking. But I found a way around this! I <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/03/sweet-potato-and-yam-favorite.html">roast root vegetables</a> all the time, so why can't I roast onions? So while my potatoes were roasting on the top rack I put the chopped onions on the bottom rack. I chopped two medium onions, added 1/3 cup water (for steaming and so the onions won't stick), a tsp of brown sugar, 4-5 drops of liquid smoke and a dash of Mr. Dash seasoning (tee hee). Baked covered at 375° for 50 minutes and I had delicious caramelized onions. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQB4NYQarJOELjXEkVckhqWXnmz_YhIMtq6LM1-hWO3cs1WWuSCYY4VvjSclj7HJnOo0Q9ZXxmMEfaUD0R-UCgT4-WKpUY-33bfuvHJYsnMIZyrRQ5o36FVMj74pHmZtJkqlY-V9mdCg/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQB4NYQarJOELjXEkVckhqWXnmz_YhIMtq6LM1-hWO3cs1WWuSCYY4VvjSclj7HJnOo0Q9ZXxmMEfaUD0R-UCgT4-WKpUY-33bfuvHJYsnMIZyrRQ5o36FVMj74pHmZtJkqlY-V9mdCg/s1600/IMG_0450.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Caramelized onions on top of roasted potatoes with a green bean and baby carrot medley. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBcN_rvBOc3wRNsQD14Mcfjp95Exkt3AK8Ym8D9bZquyydDhRo71R-dv6lflTJWj2vELTYESqnamWiaGk-nRii46WRbqwMwLh59ujnJylwUKxI83_YbElAY58LWD_BeqKRYIDqgyF1kE/s1600/IMG_0453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBcN_rvBOc3wRNsQD14Mcfjp95Exkt3AK8Ym8D9bZquyydDhRo71R-dv6lflTJWj2vELTYESqnamWiaGk-nRii46WRbqwMwLh59ujnJylwUKxI83_YbElAY58LWD_BeqKRYIDqgyF1kE/s1600/IMG_0453.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/">Happy Herbivore's</a> blueberry muffins last week and they shrunk! Just kidding...they are mini muffins. They are so cute! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk98eLgrc3QsG_UuW5cupiz03v5MdWTsfPs6CDp8ZAaxHscokTxzNsadvpIfPIFTA9CNwnbUZhB-XWcRzvh_WZHZJiVnF5h5uWEnKv2n-nu11XiqpyiyIpZGFBm9xzL0iLHqHgUzIWKg/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk98eLgrc3QsG_UuW5cupiz03v5MdWTsfPs6CDp8ZAaxHscokTxzNsadvpIfPIFTA9CNwnbUZhB-XWcRzvh_WZHZJiVnF5h5uWEnKv2n-nu11XiqpyiyIpZGFBm9xzL0iLHqHgUzIWKg/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is a dish I have been getting at <a href="https://plus.google.com/109156122855162405215/about?hl=en">Langley Vietnamese Restaurant</a>. I have to order off menu, which I do often. I ask for plain vermicelli noodles, topped with salad and steamed vegetables. It is filling, fresh and inexpensive. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMT_o9QNvwSc-IWv6s9fFiwwjV6UD9zl5cMSNICPfd5BcPCPY3yrL6hXwPOW10fG8cDBdQkaHvyjBNEAQREjeWyCBCw_5uYkoks6tX9hyElZEBH2ODr-rlcQA-6ejBeBJTFOP8Qhb7Frk/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMT_o9QNvwSc-IWv6s9fFiwwjV6UD9zl5cMSNICPfd5BcPCPY3yrL6hXwPOW10fG8cDBdQkaHvyjBNEAQREjeWyCBCw_5uYkoks6tX9hyElZEBH2ODr-rlcQA-6ejBeBJTFOP8Qhb7Frk/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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We participated in the <a href="http://abbotsford.runforwater.ca/">Run For Water</a> race on Sunday in Abbostford. It rained fairly hard at times and we were soaked, but it was worth it. We both enjoyed the extra oxygen in the air, the atmosphere and the volunteers cheering everyone on. My favorite sign a young volunteer was holding said "Rain is temporary, internet results are forever!" Gave me a chuckle and encouragement as I kept on. As mentioned before, my plant strong diet has really fueled the extra energy I have for activities such as this. I was able to shave 2 1/2 minutes off my previous race time and placed first in my age group with a time of 25:03! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXoIe3bY74ihf3GKagzszQnYBLcCvXR7DehFV_GFr40SCPNaVd-HUGiC1_b0CYknxN_j4bwnn51Yrog7HybSfhj3iMiZIHpfz4a4qbzX68J3b3CGgFIS6tJRUCRe5oRn60i1TI4dqIbI/s1600/IMG_0460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXoIe3bY74ihf3GKagzszQnYBLcCvXR7DehFV_GFr40SCPNaVd-HUGiC1_b0CYknxN_j4bwnn51Yrog7HybSfhj3iMiZIHpfz4a4qbzX68J3b3CGgFIS6tJRUCRe5oRn60i1TI4dqIbI/s1600/IMG_0460.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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After the race, we were super hungry and cold. We pulled in to a shopping center off the Mt. Lehman exit, almost deciding on Wendy's across the street (for their baked potatoes). But there was a <a href="http://www.vilapalace.com/">Vietnamese Restaurant</a> straight ahead! Even tho we had it the another night, we wanted to try it in a new location. I am so glad we did! It was so delicious, the vegetables were so fresh and cooked perfectly. They also had vegetarian/vegan options and we didn't have to order off menu :) Above, we shared an order of the vegetable salad rolls which included fresh mint, mmm. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwupOFYO8PBaWtwU557vfefHDxUzpRklmrW9Qj9hEj1FAHfU491ogB27WGJekwLjPcFbFpV7qZdsfbz6B5dBImVrrdckcKyvIpJ7G_tBINcj1X8IRSUXVWczjmhMBvnbrCWrMBXfBkkM/s1600/IMG_0461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwupOFYO8PBaWtwU557vfefHDxUzpRklmrW9Qj9hEj1FAHfU491ogB27WGJekwLjPcFbFpV7qZdsfbz6B5dBImVrrdckcKyvIpJ7G_tBINcj1X8IRSUXVWczjmhMBvnbrCWrMBXfBkkM/s1600/IMG_0461.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Vermicelli with steamed vegetables (I asked for steamed instead of fried). The vegetable mixture had onions, broccoli, carrots, and baby corn. The dish was topped off with a pickled carrot. So good, probably one of my favorite meals out to date! </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-66326180179974491102013-05-15T15:15:00.000-07:002013-05-15T15:17:52.969-07:00Back in The Kitchen <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now that work isn't so busy I have been able to put a little more effort in to the creativity of my meals. I love throwing together rolled oats, apple sauce, almond milk, triple berry mix and cinnamon. I bake it in my toaster oven till bubbly and slightly brown. I like it better than a crisp since the fruit is still in tact and there is no added sugar. </div>
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I played around with a roasted tomato hummus on the weekend. It was quite good but I want to experiment with it again before I post a recipe. Surprisingly it had the most flavor when paired with a snap pea. </div>
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Spring rolls from Happy Herbivore Abroad with a few adjustments. I didn't want a heavy sauce so squeezed a bit of lime juice in between bites. Refreshing dinner on a hot day. </div>
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Sometimes you can create something so tasty out of left overs. My parents had lentils and peas in their fridge, so I reheated them, placed them on a bed of spinach, crumbled a few <a href="http://www.guiltlessgourmet.com/">Guiltless Gourmet Chips</a>, and drizzled on some left over pasta sauce. After the photo I tossed on nutritional yeast which took it to another level. </div>
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Since my mom wasn't around for Mothers Day...I decided to celebrate without her anyway, with waffles! I used <a href="http://www.presidentschoice.ca/en_CA/products/productlisting/pc_blue_menu_whole_grain_pancake_and_waffle_mixprod1200033.html">PC Blue Menu Whole Wheat Pancake Mix</a>. Since the recipe calls for eggs, milk and oil, three things this girl don't eat, I substituted soaked chia seeds, almond milk and apple sauce. They turned out great! </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-23867466799232212712013-05-07T13:03:00.003-07:002013-05-07T13:41:33.855-07:00Chips, Pizza and Sorbet <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Busy busy at work last week, luckily we had beautiful fruit plates to keep us going. I admired my co-workers display. </div>
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"What u doing? Taking a bad photo?" </div>
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I have been wanting to try other kinds of whole grain rice besides Basmati and found California Brown Rice at our local Superstore. This short grain cooked up less starchy compared to a long grain and was a bit chewy. Nice for a change. My husband said it reminds him of rice you would get in a restaurant, ha. </div>
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Baby romaine greens, left over iceberg head lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, nutritional yeast and a squeeze of lemon juice. Quick and refreshing salad. </div>
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I have been looking for these chips ALL OVER! I gave up a while back after searching many stores only to find they have discontinued carrying them. You'll never guess where I accidentally found them. Winners, yes, WINNERS. LOL I bought four bags in my excitement. I may go back for more, but I don't like to have too much processed food in the house at once. </div>
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That is why I only bought one box of these. I like the name because that is exactly what they are, rolls of crunchy rice. A little expensive, around $4 a box, but a fun low fat vegan treat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTGcQpCw4RZ2bqYhL07zXZMWGADlQ_VTA-8Ea9PdnILnN2XrcnsMT2v1sbrN-x4IVvtEWpZcMFkQ6OXc6Fa-9ozKlYytx1vEYXz4KCa9ntdmwjSe8JiJ074X6N79yolH82O-zzKkLJ18/s1600/IMG_0391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTGcQpCw4RZ2bqYhL07zXZMWGADlQ_VTA-8Ea9PdnILnN2XrcnsMT2v1sbrN-x4IVvtEWpZcMFkQ6OXc6Fa-9ozKlYytx1vEYXz4KCa9ntdmwjSe8JiJ074X6N79yolH82O-zzKkLJ18/s1600/IMG_0391.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had the baked (not fried!) <a href="http://www.guiltlessgourmet.com/">Guiltless Gourmet</a> chips with cherry tomatoes dusted with nutritional yeast. Be sure to check the ingredients if you are vegan or dairy intolerant as the spicy black bean flavor has cheese. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorYwSH7T9VCjVtiLevMOPwKlELi6ojZ3l1Lt5Nrh-Q6ytXdEmORtlEyL1tKx3B44tdwwkENxkTXz1Q1_abSDIA39O8v6sL_bpcj9SVAUTf7ggZsa2eePZGsbH4AKQBqB2I80YRH65V0U/s1600/IMG_0395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjorYwSH7T9VCjVtiLevMOPwKlELi6ojZ3l1Lt5Nrh-Q6ytXdEmORtlEyL1tKx3B44tdwwkENxkTXz1Q1_abSDIA39O8v6sL_bpcj9SVAUTf7ggZsa2eePZGsbH4AKQBqB2I80YRH65V0U/s1600/IMG_0395.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Very excited to find out there was a Vegan Pizza House only a half hour drive from us AND right by the beach! </div>
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We ordered half Garden without <a href="http://www.daiyafoods.com/">Daiya Cheese</a> for me and Greek for him. It looked so pretty I couldn't wait to dig in. Unfortunately we are quite picky regarding pizza crust and found it a bit greasy and soggy. Sometimes there is something to be said for making a chain restaurant work for you or making pizza at home. </div>
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It was such a beautiful night we walked almost the entire strip and down the pier. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGE_3ajN9PA1f2NhRmxLT86wgndHsez_5t2CuSP4BFTqlZG9oiZa-UBQNF4hIC4F66sKiOmrDtkEZa660nXIirOw3q6YHR_TferxD5ZIDMYQBFr2ktqprEA3Ulm6eZOQKHBRw52IM_viQ/s1600/IMG_0399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGE_3ajN9PA1f2NhRmxLT86wgndHsez_5t2CuSP4BFTqlZG9oiZa-UBQNF4hIC4F66sKiOmrDtkEZa660nXIirOw3q6YHR_TferxD5ZIDMYQBFr2ktqprEA3Ulm6eZOQKHBRw52IM_viQ/s1600/IMG_0399.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And look what I found on the way! Cheeky me, I have been here before and couldn't wait to spot it during our walk. I snapped a photo so quickly, not wanting to seem like a creeper, so there is some glare in the Raspberry Gelato. Among the gelatos are dairy free sorbets. There was green apple, lime, mango, and strawberry. My husband mentioned there was pineapple, I think I will need to go back again to confirm. </div>
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I was a little hungry since I didn't each much of our pizza, so I got two scoops of sorbet. Last time I tried the green apple and lime, this time I opted for mango and strawberry. It was perfect on a hot sunny night. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-66271253240821408812013-04-28T10:43:00.000-07:002013-04-28T10:43:49.511-07:00Whistler and Dessert for Dinner <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We headed up to Whistler Mountain last weekend, it turned out to a beautiful day. It was a little grey at first, but I can assure you it was bright and sunny most of the day! Beautiful. </div>
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Since we didn't have time to head back down for lunch, we were hoping to find a snack to tide us over until dinner. Luckily for us, Whistler has vegan options! At the roundhouse there was vegan soup and various rice bowls. We both chose the African Peanut and Yam soup. Shaky ski legs and cafeteria trays make for a messy bowl photo. </div>
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I don't normally get anything from tea shops when we are out. Yes I'm thrifty, but, downtown for a show we had some time to kill. I discovered an awesome Vanilla Rooibos tea at Starbucks. Even better with a splash of soy milk. </div>
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My parents bought a new toaster made by Krups. They are really liking it so I thought I'd share. The knobs are sturdy, it doesn't take up much space and thick buns fit easily. </div>
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Before I went for a run, I threw some yams rounds in the oven and dusted them with cinnamon. 40 minutes at 375° degrees, perfect. </div>
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Spinach and Jonagold apple salad before dinner. </div>
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Yam rounds with left over apple (from the salad) and a side of apple sauce, dusted with cinnamon. The apples provided nice texture contrast to the buttery roasted yams and creamy apple sauce. I love a dessert dinner!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-21757215075142515622013-04-19T15:18:00.003-07:002013-04-19T15:26:38.693-07:00The Market and Engine 2 Lasagna <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/103254489677257100168/about?gl=ca&hl=en">Langley Farm Market</a> always has gorgeous apples, like the above Ambrosia's. Another favorite we watch out for are Gala's. This market usually brings in apples from the Okanagan, reminding me of summers driving to the interior to visit relatives. </div>
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I usually wash the apples in baking soda and water before putting them in the fridge. We can just grab and eat. </div>
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Loaded up on sweet potatoes, yams and yukon gold potatoes. I've already used quite a few of the sweet potatoes and yams, roasting them my <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/03/sweet-potato-and-yam-favorite.html">favorite way</a>. </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We got ambitious the other night and decided to make a lasagna. I've been wanting to try the <a href="http://engine2diet.com/">Engine 2 </a><a href="http://engine2diet.com/recipe/raise-the-roof-sweet-potato-lasagna/">Raise the Roof Sweet Potato Lasagna</a> for quite some time. I love a lasagna packed full of veggies, so I was sure this recipe fit the bill. And fit the bill it did. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Note: his side we topped with ground cashews, mine with tomatoes and nutritional yeast.</span></td></tr>
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The veggie mix prior to assembling the lasagna, such pretty colors. </div>
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This lasagna was awesome, so hearty with sweetness from the corn, potatoes and tomato sauce. We will definitely be making it again and we'll pick up a bit more pasta sauce next time. We were a bit short, but it still turned out quite moist. Thanks for the delicious recipe <a href="http://engine2diet.com/">Engine 2</a>! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-86552365839631663472013-04-15T10:28:00.000-07:002013-04-15T10:28:34.941-07:00A Birthday and Food On The Go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This meal is called....Wehadno foodleft. Yep. </div>
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Much prettier, cupcakes for my Dad's bday. I took my favorites parts of two cupcake recipes and made a new recipe. They turned out delicious! Light, fluffy and chocolaty. I topped them with a tofu icing that turned out quite runny, so I thickened it with Chia Seeds. It worked quite well in a pinch. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_tr2gbKsPqOm5viihyphenhyphene9q1F2cMObaJNcO5Pu60BzaKhr7M6IHI_Dt0T_XZW2XJJZQ1yI6fOv6-S3qm8hw0Knym27EXvE7cGUxgGy3ZmRZwm08P1CCPXuf57b-zZnW6wwNMOPpw55WWI/s1600/IMG_0262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_tr2gbKsPqOm5viihyphenhyphene9q1F2cMObaJNcO5Pu60BzaKhr7M6IHI_Dt0T_XZW2XJJZQ1yI6fOv6-S3qm8hw0Knym27EXvE7cGUxgGy3ZmRZwm08P1CCPXuf57b-zZnW6wwNMOPpw55WWI/s1600/IMG_0262.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Quick dinner before serving the cupcakes, roasted mini potatoes on a bed of spinach. I topped the potatoes with Mrs. Dash (herb and garlic) seasoning before going in the oven. I love simple dinners. </div>
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My husband and I took his sister to the airport on the weekend. I'm going to miss her, but I made a new friend pretty quick! </div>
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Plain oatmeal with bananas and cinnamon, a great breakfast before a Sunday run. Unfortunately, around the 4.5 km mark, I fell down. Another scraped knee, what am I, five?! Embarrassing...but worth it. </div>
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Since you can't cook with a scraped knee ;) we decided to head to <a href="http://www.muchoburrito.com/">Mucho Burrito</a> for dinner. I usually get the small burrito, but my husband said two mediums, it is HUGE! I couldn't finish it and had to give the last 1/4 to him. </div>
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I love that they have vegan options! We order the veggie burrito with fresh veggies, since the grilled ones are fairly oil saturated. We also get rice, pinto and or black beans, fresh salsa, cilantro and jalapenos. Quite satisfying. </div>
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Not cooking dinner allowed me time to make rice for lunches, using my favorite method mentioned in <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/03/weekday-eats.html">this post</a>. I also was able to fill up the oat jars. I love having an open shelf in the kitchen displaying grains, beans, pasta, nuts and seeds. They are easy to grab and allow for roomier functional cupboards. Once I stock up on some more product, I will take some pictures of the grain shelves. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-4743782989764384412013-04-09T15:57:00.000-07:002013-04-10T09:28:48.138-07:00Baby It's Not So Cold Outside <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring is here and summer should be on it's way. I'm already freezing grapes, pretending that it's summer. These babies resemble little portable popsicles, so refreshing.</div>
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Ripe bananas ready for the freezer. I peel these first and store them in a glad container. No need to worry about freezer burn, they are used within days for chocolate banana ice cream for me and smoothies for him. </div>
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Isn't this dragon fruit pretty?! And it tasted so...not good. I has a sad. I think I should buy my next one from a market, not a major grocery store. </div>
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We went to a friends last weekend and they had this beautiful plate of veggies ready for us! </div>
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To go with the veggies were two vegan dips. This one is artichoke and olives, it was hearty and naturally salty, so yummy. </div>
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This one was a rosemary white bean dip. I loved the rosemary with the cracked pepper on top. The spices were amazing with the simplicity of the white beans. I will have to ask for the recipes! </div>
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A recent dinner my husband and I made. Spelt penne pasta with a basic tomato sauce including, garlic powder, onion powder, pinto beans and artichokes. I really enjoyed extra substance from the beans and artichokes. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eH_bmKhyphenhyphenYgCqirOA5FMcT12HSNXnEKhsc9uV9y7L-Gd2WBcHvkqikAzagnjY0kRH2NHtkYUYLVAsPsYwA5voUjQlmc5nf0WEV0PquyRn9y_WjVpGOqMv0DWlJo-OqQHKWE8eoqRkaCY/s1600/IMG_0258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eH_bmKhyphenhyphenYgCqirOA5FMcT12HSNXnEKhsc9uV9y7L-Gd2WBcHvkqikAzagnjY0kRH2NHtkYUYLVAsPsYwA5voUjQlmc5nf0WEV0PquyRn9y_WjVpGOqMv0DWlJo-OqQHKWE8eoqRkaCY/s1600/IMG_0258.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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One of my favorite oatmeal bowls is triple berry oatmeal. It reminds me of a cobbler or crisp. I prepare whatever oats I have on hand, add a few tbsps of apple sauce, about 3/4 cup triple berry mix and microwave for a couple minutes. I topped it with unsweetened almond milk, cinnamon and nutmeg. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-73316973910163315972013-03-29T08:32:00.000-07:002013-03-29T08:32:50.059-07:00Muffins & Soup Payment <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My very generous Dad is always helping people out, including me. Last week he did some repairs on my vehicle. Lucky for me, he lets me repay him the labor in muffins and soup.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Before adding the delicious blueberries. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">I love vegan batters, you can lick the bowl, worry free! </span></td></tr>
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Blueberry cornbread muffins from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Happy-Herbivore-Abroad-Travelogue-Fat-Free/dp/1937856046">Happy Herbivore Abroad</a>. I did a quality control on one ;) I love the blueberries with the sweet and savory cornmeal. Great contrast of flavors.</div>
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This has been my desert in the evenings. A bowl of frozen fruit with almond milk and spice. This bowl was mangoes, raspberries, wild blueberries and cinnamon. </div>
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For the soup payment I chose German Lentil and Potato Soup, also from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Happy-Herbivore-Abroad-Travelogue-Fat-Free/dp/1937856046">Happy Herbivore Abroad</a>. </div>
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Another frozen fruit dessert bowl. This one was mangoes, raspberries, applesauce, almond milk and a pinch of nutmeg. I don't know what it is, but mangoes seem to go so well with nutmeg and or cloves. Or I just have messed up taste buds, I'm okay with that.</div>
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After the baking and cooking for my Dad, my husband and I thought we should make ourselves a nice meal. We like to make pasta on a weeknight so we have leftovers for lunches. I usually top my leftovers with some frozen peas, corn, beans or any frozen veg mix. It's so quick and handy and they don't overcook at work. Okay, back to the pasta. We made Sun-dried tomato pasta sauce from the <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/The-Happy-Herbivore-Cookbook-Delicious/dp/1935618121">Happy Herbivore Cookbook</a> and mixed it with kamut penne. Lots of Happy Herbivore recipes this week! </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-87439523495427942522013-03-23T15:12:00.001-07:002013-03-23T15:12:45.588-07:00Holy Crap Donkey Kong! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Look
at all those bananas! Donkey and Diddy must live here. Dixie? 6 bunches
of bananas...AND they ate them in a week! I guess a banana problem really isn't a "problem". </div>
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As you can see, I've been eating heaps of fruit lately. Loves.</div>
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On to some veggies! </div>
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Spinach, Roma tomatoes and nutritional yeast. Ate this sitting on a rustic porch in the sun, ahhh. </div>
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Roasted sweet potatoes, steamed kale, corn and smoked paprika. </div>
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Some days I'd rather be running than cooking. Insert simple brown basmati rice and peas. </div>
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Roasted these golden babies in the toaster oven. Love having them in the fridge for a quick meal after work. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-33171418242856996042013-03-15T14:23:00.000-07:002013-03-15T14:23:57.342-07:00Sweet Potato and Yam Favorite <br />
My favorite way to cook sweet potatoes and yams, most root vegetables actually, is roasting them in the oven. Roasting them means I don't have to do much chopping or preparation. I can throw them in the oven and go workout on our elliptical, or catch up on things around the house. Plus, they become sweeter than if you boiled them.<br />
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What I do:<br />
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Preheat the oven to 375°C. I wash the yams and sweet potatoes and cut out eyes if needed. If the ends are really skinny like these ones, I cut them off, if they are rounded, I leave them on. I find the skinny ones easier to cut with the ends off. Then I cut them in half length wise and place them face down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Like so:<br />
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Roast for 25-35 minutes depending on the size of yams. Large ones may need 45 min up to an hour. These took 30 minutes. </div>
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I love how they get a little caramelized in spots.</div>
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I topped the sweet potatoes and yams with steamed kale & peas. For seasoning the greens I used nutritional yeast, Mrs. Dash and garlic powder. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-79927838765205460602013-03-12T10:16:00.000-07:002013-03-12T10:29:30.907-07:00My Journey to Plant Based <br />
Although I was a thin child, I felt ill most of my life. I caught viruses at least 6-8 times per year, had a very sensitive stomach and would get frequent heartburn. I maintained my weight through high school and started to eat a little better, not so much for health, more for appearance. About a year after school I started to put on a bit of weight, eating more fast food and going out for desserts, treating myself almost daily with the standard North American fare. Over this time I gained 25 pounds and and my <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_mass_index">Body Mass Index</a> was 25. Accompanying the weight gain were daily stomach pains and <b>extremely low energy levels</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhLjWDJVGYfFcQN9oou7g6l_zddkkkBgjNSzMvNVD29PvZBdOyPel5uOOiWf70U4tcFjeWdDv46ihDRJT-t5KB5UaBeYE0BBrvxuClWt31WXM9cBfEQ3cUOiODBGNTSBuKg2FPCWap1I/s1600/The+girls@HellsGate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhLjWDJVGYfFcQN9oou7g6l_zddkkkBgjNSzMvNVD29PvZBdOyPel5uOOiWf70U4tcFjeWdDv46ihDRJT-t5KB5UaBeYE0BBrvxuClWt31WXM9cBfEQ3cUOiODBGNTSBuKg2FPCWap1I/s1600/The+girls@HellsGate.jpg" height="400" width="126" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJnarjKeA5r3nAeLULl6_DVdZ6PWlBFUi_whnefvTITbrwgYHq38_uxVZk5CkRRMNU9oOnA-gEuGfhB7HISzI3Ae1P-qjdlraYYNdUYkarlnyOLgFYlw6u7xosH0nFInOUUrP4yZ809Y/s1600/Nerissa+and+Sherisse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJnarjKeA5r3nAeLULl6_DVdZ6PWlBFUi_whnefvTITbrwgYHq38_uxVZk5CkRRMNU9oOnA-gEuGfhB7HISzI3Ae1P-qjdlraYYNdUYkarlnyOLgFYlw6u7xosH0nFInOUUrP4yZ809Y/s320/Nerissa+and+Sherisse.jpg" height="400" width="160" /></a></div>
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I finally had enough and decided to cut out sugar and processed foods. I booked a trip to Mexico and was determined to loose weight. I ended up losing 20 pounds and felt a bit better overall, but I had a hard time resisting temptation when I got back. Even though I still ate better and never returned to my heaviest, I fluctuated up and down 10 or so pounds for a few years after and still suffered from low energy and viruses.<br />
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Since I was still looking for an energy boost, I began taking vitamins. It started with a multivitamin, but a few trips to the health food store, and the associates can have you convinced you need half of the products in there. Even though I took copious amounts of vitamins for years, I didn't feel much of an increase in energy.<br />
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On May 1, 2008 I decided to become a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pescetarianism">Pescetarian</a>, which meant I would still eat fish, eggs and dairy (although I already switched to a plant based milk), but no other animal products. I felt a lot better removing such a large range of animal products from my life and enjoyed introducing new and exciting food to my diet.<br />
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After three years of a Pescetarian lifestyle I decided to give up fish and become a vegetarian, it was hard at first since I had always loved fish, but it was loosing it's luster. I discovered what I really liked about fish were the family memories associated with it. Giving up fish made me realize that I had emotional ties to it and was part of my problem with emotional eating. Just like I lost the craving for salmon, I soon lost the craving for eggs. During this transition, I gave up oil, another processed food. My energy levels really started to improve.<br />
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After a bit of searching for healthier desserts I could create for my Dad, I stumbled upon <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/">Happy Herbivore</a>. I was amazed at how many desserts I found <b>without</b> butter, oil and overly processed flours. Then I discovered the rest of the website, <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/recipes/">delicious breakfasts, lunch and dinner recipes</a>, <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/blog/">informative blog posts</a>, <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/topic/Minimalist/">minimalism</a>, <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/topic/Herbies/">herbies of the week</a> and so many inspiring ideas and people. Happy Herbivore started my journey to becoming the energetic girl I am today. With the tools that Happy Herbivore gave me and after reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/China-Study-Comprehensive-Nutrition-Implications/dp/1932100660">The China Study, by T. Colin Campbell</a>, I decided to give up all dairy and become a plant based vegan. It was a little hard at first for me socially, but has been worth every awkward moment. I feel too wonderful to not learn how to overcome social situations. I've also realized that people are usually just curious and it was me that was feeling awkward about it. Now I'm proud to be plant strong!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPTN57g_9NuvdPpjpsCnu26Quz0k_khwRedzCF52odzpxEi0r0mDVOLRu_umk7uDhtyj7l0jQH0gthjHeLSi6TMZPySL-9vIZgMp9TslNSjmBPVNsQEDRJO45KjogMK786tIkFbURuXs/s1600/_MG_7165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPTN57g_9NuvdPpjpsCnu26Quz0k_khwRedzCF52odzpxEi0r0mDVOLRu_umk7uDhtyj7l0jQH0gthjHeLSi6TMZPySL-9vIZgMp9TslNSjmBPVNsQEDRJO45KjogMK786tIkFbURuXs/s1600/_MG_7165.jpg" height="400" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing the <a href="http://www.grousemountain.com/grousegrind">Grouse Grind</a> hike in NorthVancouver, BC.</td></tr>
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I now eat a diet high in raw vegetables and fruits, in addition to cooked grains, root vegetables, beans, a small amount of nuts and seeds, and I keep hydrated with lots of water. Eating a high amount of raw vegetables and fruits keeps my energy levels up and maintained. My energy levels are so important to me since I've struggled with them for many years. I no longer experience the afternoon slump (I used to fall asleep at my desk some days!) or barely have energy to get off the couch at night after a day of sitting at work. I sleep deeper than I ever could have imagined and feel rested in the morning. My body mass index is at a healthier 20.5.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMt8QIJWzgDlfxnE0iaW24S6_BX0p6kFw3hqy6I9lmz5r9WlSFyXcVPmW6pmDeQ1DkLpvBteEdjTsgSVmEY_Sl6XBbWLB-KFHgIpkEW57aWAszrpVW5kvwJThEA8_8EnpHypqY4HrKJpw/s1600/_MG_7402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMt8QIJWzgDlfxnE0iaW24S6_BX0p6kFw3hqy6I9lmz5r9WlSFyXcVPmW6pmDeQ1DkLpvBteEdjTsgSVmEY_Sl6XBbWLB-KFHgIpkEW57aWAszrpVW5kvwJThEA8_8EnpHypqY4HrKJpw/s1600/_MG_7402.jpg" height="400" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating lunch at the top of Mt. Cheam, Chilliwack, BC.</td></tr>
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I'm kind of a shy person, slowly coming out of my shell. Sharing my personal journey is a bit intimidating for me, but I think it's important. If no one shared their plant based journeys, I probably wouldn't be on mine. Inspiration can be infectious, like a boisterous laughter. I have been inspired by plant based people, I hope to provide inspiration to others, even if it's just one person.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-75474562092017811452013-03-07T13:48:00.000-08:002013-03-07T13:48:29.100-08:00Weekday eats <br />
Some meals I have been enjoying lately, keeping me energized and happy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5i632Ym-GA4gHFGynxG0ojL9ACQbCfRYXTlPpm0EbBcYTp9Qj-oO0nTClWMY9CesiNjlRMrJ-nIfWvhoSihAHQcMxQ7tMCJ4cv2FFKOLRW2Du_8j0N2jufN0IxZyziAFis2KfW7wxuC0/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5i632Ym-GA4gHFGynxG0ojL9ACQbCfRYXTlPpm0EbBcYTp9Qj-oO0nTClWMY9CesiNjlRMrJ-nIfWvhoSihAHQcMxQ7tMCJ4cv2FFKOLRW2Du_8j0N2jufN0IxZyziAFis2KfW7wxuC0/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Toasted <a href="http://www.silverhillsbakery.ca/products/sprouted-bread/the-big-16">Silver Hills The Big 16</a> bread, with apple sauce, banana, Bosc pear and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxPs2ki6ryT4eSasNTcTFmHR8xv7h4JUKVWgnsGzIHj3qOMLQVzaopY-lGbRVeP_du5MOQp1ni1DEVSXW-wAcnWOCP3XSfY7tq8TKeovx3zTJwkcQSVinkuzKWEmoAm-a5jFrV32z7qY/s1600/IMG_0103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxPs2ki6ryT4eSasNTcTFmHR8xv7h4JUKVWgnsGzIHj3qOMLQVzaopY-lGbRVeP_du5MOQp1ni1DEVSXW-wAcnWOCP3XSfY7tq8TKeovx3zTJwkcQSVinkuzKWEmoAm-a5jFrV32z7qY/s1600/IMG_0103.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Big bowl salad. Field greens, kale and a chopped ambrosia apple. I often stuff celery and carrots on the side to snack on before I eat my big bowl salad.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CqbjW0jZDpIfktaZ4HAAWqaHc9O2JGDGbnzgF_7HmTL0GXSGFGTn6ooPMRdeEo5R2IrB17W0sq_FHmw6v8up3u0BfvfuR0aGjjw9AOjpezdeZwV9_AH-5E34OG1AJ0WTZ7Kvh5mzr9E/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_CqbjW0jZDpIfktaZ4HAAWqaHc9O2JGDGbnzgF_7HmTL0GXSGFGTn6ooPMRdeEo5R2IrB17W0sq_FHmw6v8up3u0BfvfuR0aGjjw9AOjpezdeZwV9_AH-5E34OG1AJ0WTZ7Kvh5mzr9E/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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A smaller salad :( Spinach, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, salsa and nutritional yeast. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJO0EjYrrbeQfViXSsBUGzPAlNLVWJVGVc6reTXjGb9Rf20n7jtw9n2br-Np7pw77rOAMPzdlGTEhKO2ZR4A0M0PUTLDf5My7sqyqBL5bZ7wrfypvLvX1wSNN67YuZQRaYa-moCBxrwA/s1600/IMG_0199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJO0EjYrrbeQfViXSsBUGzPAlNLVWJVGVc6reTXjGb9Rf20n7jtw9n2br-Np7pw77rOAMPzdlGTEhKO2ZR4A0M0PUTLDf5My7sqyqBL5bZ7wrfypvLvX1wSNN67YuZQRaYa-moCBxrwA/s1600/IMG_0199.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Strawberry spinach salad. And the ingredients are just that, strawberries and spinach. No oily or sugary dressing slowing me down. If you don't do salads without dressing, I think splash of orange juice mixed with a dollop of maple syrup might be a nice addition.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuag7WyXeXNREiQiBLoqnuXt-fdpNtcm0kghxl-GGORqObkkfprAVQcG-OcJV-sIYtnkbPTPPICLj-SDOeN4lHEd89-Yfq-xxknI4XE_n7tWXMH45hDYQvG5ZQ6z9PltLM_-ZKQPA5isQ/s1600/IMG_0196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuag7WyXeXNREiQiBLoqnuXt-fdpNtcm0kghxl-GGORqObkkfprAVQcG-OcJV-sIYtnkbPTPPICLj-SDOeN4lHEd89-Yfq-xxknI4XE_n7tWXMH45hDYQvG5ZQ6z9PltLM_-ZKQPA5isQ/s1600/IMG_0196.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Vegetable stir fry. A comfort food for me. My dad would make many stir frys when I lived at home. They were always filling and fresh. Thanks Dad <3</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXGtqHTUY5rl176VcpCa4DB8Br_WUoRGlW6zN2zoSTe95MMOKXXpFViOMuSBhNK4Ydja9I99w3gUCHjgjO7lcCVcMB5Ki_cjjz364-B2xsJaeuROqNEzl1OogcSVVY9r6-lCP6RrFsZw/s1600/IMG_0100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXGtqHTUY5rl176VcpCa4DB8Br_WUoRGlW6zN2zoSTe95MMOKXXpFViOMuSBhNK4Ydja9I99w3gUCHjgjO7lcCVcMB5Ki_cjjz364-B2xsJaeuROqNEzl1OogcSVVY9r6-lCP6RrFsZw/s1600/IMG_0100.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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A mix of brown basmati rice and red rice, cooked with my favorite method from <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/how-to-cook-perfect-brown-rice/">Pinch My Salt</a>, adapted from <a href="http://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Perfect-Brown-Rice">Saveur</a>. Topped with cherry tomatoes, torn spinach leaves, sprouted chickpeas, nutritional yeast and a splash of Bragg seasoning. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxMcxIJZCkAjnkphevYtTtD-QChULNc_tdEs7t7eWp3_DWQH8ZIiyYt5Wpbk0Vrg2UI88VcgWXIfQ_EuWuAi3UFeNXHlZdlSrPQp-n19ERt-PKBlEZOHbjnKBh28Tx-Q-Gq6AuWWFG44/s1600/IMG_0085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxMcxIJZCkAjnkphevYtTtD-QChULNc_tdEs7t7eWp3_DWQH8ZIiyYt5Wpbk0Vrg2UI88VcgWXIfQ_EuWuAi3UFeNXHlZdlSrPQp-n19ERt-PKBlEZOHbjnKBh28Tx-Q-Gq6AuWWFG44/s1600/IMG_0085.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I've had some great runs this past couple of weeks, including fun intervals and tempo runs. My fruit intake has also gone up, especially bananas. Will definitely try to eat one before most of my runs. </span></div>
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<span id="goog_281000690"></span><span id="goog_281000691"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-57513286148417381002013-03-04T12:24:00.003-08:002013-03-04T12:24:54.456-08:007 Foods I'm Loving Right Now <br />
I've seen other bloggers do these types of posts and I quite enjoy it. It gives me ideas of what to watch out for when shopping, can inspire me to be healthier and give me ideas for new recipes to try. So here it is, 7 things I'm loving right now:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz70eHhGdUAqaG-6JJzaZa121dm3y8CzVa6sNQlXE0SOVhZ-Xv6ie4ZPxqi70IiZXXztMNr1zndSjbBQwkBX4vmD2FHghBDiIEmwTVEpq4ZuXSgMc1HMTukcEFAvLNysie8U4KEIGo2LA/s1600/IMG_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz70eHhGdUAqaG-6JJzaZa121dm3y8CzVa6sNQlXE0SOVhZ-Xv6ie4ZPxqi70IiZXXztMNr1zndSjbBQwkBX4vmD2FHghBDiIEmwTVEpq4ZuXSgMc1HMTukcEFAvLNysie8U4KEIGo2LA/s1600/IMG_0108.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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President's Choice Easy to Peel Mandarin oranges. These little babies ARE easy to peel, for real. They are also a convenient and mess free snack.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHx_MX86vSfMMei70UfQ0i_2Ndfpp-5IrhWUk4tl5JvdbQIU0ZrmoJuZ12TGjDK8W07w8R1JI2E1xHvuc2pt1bp49IXsHC-FeF79wtKzlUm25M8wyn6cISAQ7hbsPFPucFtTEFY3VBPyA/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHx_MX86vSfMMei70UfQ0i_2Ndfpp-5IrhWUk4tl5JvdbQIU0ZrmoJuZ12TGjDK8W07w8R1JI2E1xHvuc2pt1bp49IXsHC-FeF79wtKzlUm25M8wyn6cISAQ7hbsPFPucFtTEFY3VBPyA/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mann's snap peas. I don't buy these all the time as they can be a bit pricey. I do pick them up when they're on sale or marked down and am never disappointed. Crunchy, fresh and no yucky strings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3cO51zq5LAFAbNccIm_SwiuYkV7VcYYyT84ZxFDweEbUBRd2gEE8wO_Jk836e31CGkb0gaoO67QIhYNew096KnXEMQy90IcWgKQc4QhaolBMABpePuQK7KU5McrJ3EADxolBBbkDYu1M/s1600/IMG_0109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3cO51zq5LAFAbNccIm_SwiuYkV7VcYYyT84ZxFDweEbUBRd2gEE8wO_Jk836e31CGkb0gaoO67QIhYNew096KnXEMQy90IcWgKQc4QhaolBMABpePuQK7KU5McrJ3EADxolBBbkDYu1M/s1600/IMG_0109.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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My husband and I love dates as a sweet treat. I often chop one up and sprinkle it over a bowl of <a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/2013/02/non-dairy-milks-and-simple-dishes.html">Shredded Wheat with almond milk</a> for dessert. He will split one in half and stuff it with almonds, walnuts or peanut butter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjklTlZpIo0K6m9kzYU4c6sSylqKK0sdz21mX7WCtq4QJch0TOYyw4jXCiejBQScNdwJo3ud-Ef53SJaSMz5O9mEN0SUQuf-tvjbPdzUYnF1UfxDKp_0ZFSohiOP0s-mWVwmpAydWmays/s1600/IMG_0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjklTlZpIo0K6m9kzYU4c6sSylqKK0sdz21mX7WCtq4QJch0TOYyw4jXCiejBQScNdwJo3ud-Ef53SJaSMz5O9mEN0SUQuf-tvjbPdzUYnF1UfxDKp_0ZFSohiOP0s-mWVwmpAydWmays/s1600/IMG_0110.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Nutritional Yeast is a healthy way to add a cheesy flavor without weighing you down. I add it to rice, soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, pizza etc...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_omYrE4FgW4XwVYKGMS3-cTFZqKFo_BZeSSLzWF9t54QpCfHku5g_fneuFjStoG6orqMVhvM8ZpEp6ygA4np9JxZZU-Cn3aS3uWMxecwrAvSwjCD53xSxEYEdUx_4fyjiceF-k2mZt8I/s1600/IMG_0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_omYrE4FgW4XwVYKGMS3-cTFZqKFo_BZeSSLzWF9t54QpCfHku5g_fneuFjStoG6orqMVhvM8ZpEp6ygA4np9JxZZU-Cn3aS3uWMxecwrAvSwjCD53xSxEYEdUx_4fyjiceF-k2mZt8I/s1600/IMG_0114.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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My favorite way to use these beans is in a soup, specifically minestrone. The medley consists of red & white kidney beans, romano beans, baby lima beans, chickpeas and black eyed peas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUpLWh3I3x9QpzKet9Wt82PwEfMfIL5Hh_aUmcp8wW8Snmwhg37USg1AepW6Mk2ut6TJ6jJYAsbbnHPt_8A7LR1poiD_8RF64ggfkI3mK7zIFaxEca-XBubH0ABVbHWeugeZ58uZkXw8/s1600/IMG_0192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUpLWh3I3x9QpzKet9Wt82PwEfMfIL5Hh_aUmcp8wW8Snmwhg37USg1AepW6Mk2ut6TJ6jJYAsbbnHPt_8A7LR1poiD_8RF64ggfkI3mK7zIFaxEca-XBubH0ABVbHWeugeZ58uZkXw8/s1600/IMG_0192.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Chili Garlic Sauce. I use this spicy condiment in stir frys and noodle soups. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-FEonL_oiI7h6MITIhYsaWgMuOoGMmVZ5LoXDBS3_neBMkF26GMpHY8lRVRV9wHhcTT0-JHF9nmGLYaMK7zxUOowiOZ0QEd6DtzgTSRjb3w00aNy_e-62oFuizUquS4bvNhzxqEidsg/s1600/IMG_0195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-FEonL_oiI7h6MITIhYsaWgMuOoGMmVZ5LoXDBS3_neBMkF26GMpHY8lRVRV9wHhcTT0-JHF9nmGLYaMK7zxUOowiOZ0QEd6DtzgTSRjb3w00aNy_e-62oFuizUquS4bvNhzxqEidsg/s1600/IMG_0195.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Bragg All purpose Liquid Seasoning. I use this as soy sauce, sparingly, as it is quite salty. The only complaint I have is about the container, it always leaks. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9Gq3LZyPHjjPohaHqHnnzi0guu1UbM_nhLMGuWaComlfHRtK4xQXv81lLBFziK5x4DGJyQTlrS1b4RFDUrbHaTnjD6QztKGUK3qL8xPwRID_ngoSJKrISKW1KDw4A4Kmf2ID8-aTPDc/s1600/IMG_0160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9Gq3LZyPHjjPohaHqHnnzi0guu1UbM_nhLMGuWaComlfHRtK4xQXv81lLBFziK5x4DGJyQTlrS1b4RFDUrbHaTnjD6QztKGUK3qL8xPwRID_ngoSJKrISKW1KDw4A4Kmf2ID8-aTPDc/s1600/IMG_0160.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going in to the oven.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect.</td></tr>
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This is kind of an eighth thing...On the weekend I made <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/">Happy Herbivore's</a> Apple Crisp Muffins from <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/cookbook/happy-herbivore-cookbook/">HHC</a> for my parents. They said "perfect". I agree. I used 2 small gala apples, they worked very well in this recipe. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-44269955644503913922013-02-28T13:15:00.002-08:002013-02-28T13:15:36.229-08:00Recipe organization <br />
For years my recipe organization has been a disaster. Printed pages from various websites and random recipes written on pads of paper (provided by local solicitors), both in different areas of the house. Unfortunately, I didn't know where anything was and would get very discouraged trying to find a recipe. The result? I didn't use my recipes very often.<br />
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I searched for different solutions through <a href="http://images.google.ca/">Google images</a> and I decided to go with something familiar to me. I work in an office by day, so an expandable file folder seemed to make the most sense. Organizing papers is part of my job, I figured I should live how I work.<br />
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I picked up the expandable, see through file folder at Superstore for $4. Depending on how many recipes one has, you may need to get a bigger file. I recently organized my moms recipes, using the same file, and it was a little snug for them all. Depending on how many she accumulates, she may need to upgrade in size in the next few years. I had some of her really old recipes laminated, it was nostalgic to go through beautifully hand written recipes from both my grandmothers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1XXIrbvU18C6XIXcNhjNBDYKpP54zu_DdgFHc0NzC39hzCfFkCCT_CXmKwsYciGl96gu9iZgJ4QZi99WYBEu6wf38-a4LwrgSw7ihwGGB2HxbDP6eDPE8v_rdbZnn4qovzDY2XtSDyw/s1600/IMG_0131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1XXIrbvU18C6XIXcNhjNBDYKpP54zu_DdgFHc0NzC39hzCfFkCCT_CXmKwsYciGl96gu9iZgJ4QZi99WYBEu6wf38-a4LwrgSw7ihwGGB2HxbDP6eDPE8v_rdbZnn4qovzDY2XtSDyw/s1600/IMG_0131.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have Happy Herbivore's <a href="http://happyherbivore.com/2011/11/replacing-fats-baking/">replacing fats in baking</a> PDF in the front. </td></tr>
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Before I started labeling the tabs, I thought I should sort my recipes in to different categories to see which ones I could combine and which ones needed there own tab. After sorting, and recycling the unwanted recipes, I decided on the following categories:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Dips & Spreads </li>
<li>Appetizers</li>
<li>Salads</li>
<li>Soups</li>
<li>Sauces</li>
<li>Main meals</li>
<li>Muffins & biscuits</li>
<li>Cookies</li>
<li>Desserts & squares </li>
<li>Chocolate & dates </li>
<li>Ice cream & novelties </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXHmrXM0iPxFT0132-NMXU8IJpRxLoHynrOV0wnzlzh_P6_42BMFweet_XEw0YKIdBnr04ziPa6bYpXVLNtfO3oSlY5_XnbQZu7qV5t5fLbfrBNjiUGx_TZTKHOV76TUO7OLZL1A_meY/s1600/IMG_0133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXHmrXM0iPxFT0132-NMXU8IJpRxLoHynrOV0wnzlzh_P6_42BMFweet_XEw0YKIdBnr04ziPa6bYpXVLNtfO3oSlY5_XnbQZu7qV5t5fLbfrBNjiUGx_TZTKHOV76TUO7OLZL1A_meY/s1600/IMG_0133.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uLRV509gLGMysM1eGCZ1oloDGxvfBwhtetS5PJLqGKetGXqhuimlqrITNAfXy1PdRjh9Q24daBZzN0PZa03K7BCErvqZkyH0g-SjPJLC9SDQi0IoFsISnqb1msox3jXp7iKRJ7SPAfk/s1600/IMG_0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uLRV509gLGMysM1eGCZ1oloDGxvfBwhtetS5PJLqGKetGXqhuimlqrITNAfXy1PdRjh9Q24daBZzN0PZa03K7BCErvqZkyH0g-SjPJLC9SDQi0IoFsISnqb1msox3jXp7iKRJ7SPAfk/s1600/IMG_0138.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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The folder is easy to store and it fits nicely on top of our fridge with my most used cookbooks, <a href="http://the%20folder%20is%20easy%20to%20store%2C%20it%20fits%20nicely%20on%20top%20of%20my%20fridge%20on%20top%20of%20my%20most%20used%20cookbooks%2C%20the%20happy%20herbivore%20ones%20of%20course./">The Happy Herbivore Cookbooks</a> of course. </div>
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For now this is working great. It isn't the greenest option, but I don't go crazy with printing recipes. Maybe in the future I will think about getting a kindle or cloud reader. But for $4, I really can't go wrong with a familiar expandable file.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-83448119618072874002013-02-26T11:26:00.001-08:002013-02-26T11:26:59.736-08:00Non-dairy milks and simple dishes<br />
I love how many alternatives there are to milk in stores. Rice milk, almond, coconut, hemp, soy, oat, but with all of those choices, it can be a little overwhelming as to which non-dairy milk to stick with. Not that you have to stick with one, but I like to keep things simple and low cost. Most people recommend trying all the different kinds to find which one you like best. I have tried a few, but I have to admit, I'm really not very choosy and my choice is often driven by price.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyYSGy87-pv1DCacJ_89OJ3DnKfuH_CcrRwCaM-rTFccmXWLgWLld8X4e8bxDHRYpTdkIwOuy8OdPNjur8g1AIhYTQE18OY3shjFGfnvoOKMOenVH1m8Z08l33ANmQoPHHeChyDiEACg/s1600/IMG_0117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyYSGy87-pv1DCacJ_89OJ3DnKfuH_CcrRwCaM-rTFccmXWLgWLld8X4e8bxDHRYpTdkIwOuy8OdPNjur8g1AIhYTQE18OY3shjFGfnvoOKMOenVH1m8Z08l33ANmQoPHHeChyDiEACg/s1600/IMG_0117.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Silk True Almond milk for me. I use it in oatmeal, cereal and for baking. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1J9-0AfvzkO4cHeFcIayUpF0AwrFZ0UogMNCCwYWdRv81gll3a3AdWqLrcbBCcQAaHN-pGKYbnOdA-tJ_DQdGPbbBVdaP-Gqfu9IfvD88XX5DHBTGjTSgkYL3ScavCXtNNGaS-rRGxk/s1600/IMG_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1J9-0AfvzkO4cHeFcIayUpF0AwrFZ0UogMNCCwYWdRv81gll3a3AdWqLrcbBCcQAaHN-pGKYbnOdA-tJ_DQdGPbbBVdaP-Gqfu9IfvD88XX5DHBTGjTSgkYL3ScavCXtNNGaS-rRGxk/s1600/IMG_0118.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Rice Dream for him, he likes the sweeter and lighter taste compared to almond milk.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVq-VPe4va1R-B9FQ5HmlVIey0xqE6nIEUJpzSru1wQ20wG7xGphNaJc-ZtXeTe_RfIHCXMlIyJqBmiijqS8XXgCHNvsMlCFaRL3dJ_3hzV8rKn_wdn5MKWBgvIrO_6qF9FXXkVg6kmkE/s1600/IMG_0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVq-VPe4va1R-B9FQ5HmlVIey0xqE6nIEUJpzSru1wQ20wG7xGphNaJc-ZtXeTe_RfIHCXMlIyJqBmiijqS8XXgCHNvsMlCFaRL3dJ_3hzV8rKn_wdn5MKWBgvIrO_6qF9FXXkVg6kmkE/s1600/IMG_0123.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now for some cereal. Shredded Wheat, with and without bran. Sugar and salt free! So good with fruit and non-dairy milk. It also makes for a nice oatmeal topping. I should check out this "free" red scarf business....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEfzTAQyGG7menbr4_ueXrlKSFMcDKMdD1Pu2y_RNJ7w80vVfn5HPSmyUlewyvP063tghyjOEW1DELDMDo6cFXN7cqCaOiGZj0Ybdox7p4M3NthrzevNIqujhTD5iRe5amUVgVzf68QM/s1600/IMG_0120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEfzTAQyGG7menbr4_ueXrlKSFMcDKMdD1Pu2y_RNJ7w80vVfn5HPSmyUlewyvP063tghyjOEW1DELDMDo6cFXN7cqCaOiGZj0Ybdox7p4M3NthrzevNIqujhTD5iRe5amUVgVzf68QM/s1600/IMG_0120.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made sprouts! Chickpea sprouts, in my kitchen. It was easy thanks to Emily's <a href="http://www.dailygarnish.com/2010/04/sprouting-101-and-a-sprouted-hummus-recipe.html">Sprouting 101</a> post at <a href="http://www.dailygarnish.com/">The Daily Garnish</a>. I've been sprinkling them on salads and munching on them for a quick snack. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEkaZDhkpKg1MjlW0Myd_EUC3OJTloPfOG6ZSpEXGfUOnDlF7YSftazcgAHxl_SdpjTHSbmh7GXVd5DUqqLRtZTy-WuJGefoWW-edbBhLKo4gLUsAYNISMoXzjnJMs73L5rtj5CxozvM/s1600/IMG_0122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEkaZDhkpKg1MjlW0Myd_EUC3OJTloPfOG6ZSpEXGfUOnDlF7YSftazcgAHxl_SdpjTHSbmh7GXVd5DUqqLRtZTy-WuJGefoWW-edbBhLKo4gLUsAYNISMoXzjnJMs73L5rtj5CxozvM/s1600/IMG_0122.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also made some Amaranth. I haven't had it in a very long time, I really love the crunchy little beads of grain with a slightly nutty taste. I had some for breakfast topped with cinnamon, almond milk and banana. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Dvr86qJKrwtD-vcY87c8f27eukV17F4NHZhm9eueknM8SGY87dCnDsVERRsHwVr1ZjBNO0e0c-u9nMzdPbwZ4NU2yd75I0bW36-6DVIQHlc8NcOyniTupJTZJY2H7rNK11U61KYhauE/s1600/IMG_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Dvr86qJKrwtD-vcY87c8f27eukV17F4NHZhm9eueknM8SGY87dCnDsVERRsHwVr1ZjBNO0e0c-u9nMzdPbwZ4NU2yd75I0bW36-6DVIQHlc8NcOyniTupJTZJY2H7rNK11U61KYhauE/s1600/IMG_0129.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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A plain salad can be so satisfying. Just two ingredients, so pretty. My salads look like this often, leafy green and a fruit. I try to eat two salads a day, always before a meal. I say this because I find salads taste best when I'm fairly hungry and I don't feel like eating a salad after a meal, I crave more of the meal I just ate...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wo-UDgjOlzLnTfFlCk3WVdr9VRiHtf_-BCPM-zmn0gS8YNJbldiSlROBaeEwO7U21EZ4LS011_qR5wc9qJhjAqR2GSmrDVopQpVneduUPgtuVfTW5VnVkvEOeerNxIRpinuP6uz-l_0/s1600/IMG_0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wo-UDgjOlzLnTfFlCk3WVdr9VRiHtf_-BCPM-zmn0gS8YNJbldiSlROBaeEwO7U21EZ4LS011_qR5wc9qJhjAqR2GSmrDVopQpVneduUPgtuVfTW5VnVkvEOeerNxIRpinuP6uz-l_0/s1600/IMG_0128.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Like this meal! On Sunday evening I made<a href="http://happyherbivore.com/"> Happy Herbivore's</a> Broccoli Pesto Pasta from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Happy-Herbivore-Cookbook-Delicious-ebook/dp/B004EPYW8S/?tag=hh-hhcb-20">Happy Herbivore Cookbook</a>. It was delicious! The fresh basil was lovely with the grape tomatoes and the broccoli added a nice heartiness to the dish. I will definitely be making this recipe again. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-84605747343847786252013-02-21T09:54:00.000-08:002013-02-21T12:15:40.326-08:00Fat Free Vegan Samosas <br />
I had been really craving samosas. But I wanted healthy, vegan samosas. Luckily my first attempt at a fat free version turned out pretty good. The dough is a bit chewy, but if you are used to fat free recipes it's no big deal. I adapted the recipe from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Canadian-Living-Vegetarian-Collection-Meat-Free/dp/0981393802">Canadian Living: The Vegetarian Collection</a>. I really enjoy this cookbook and have been able to adapt quite a few of the recipes to be made vegan and oil free.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Fat Free Vegan Samosas</span> </b><br />
(recipe adapted from Canadian living cookbook) For original recipe and step by step photos, please click <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/cooking_school/cooking_class_vegetable_samosas.php">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv5rl8mGD8ynNA1Ng6msX2BNUouWr31jTLgqcpU72E9cSPaG2pFfu9lN-BslLma6uy6x63TbeA8VdhTGAuRR0OApsbT51IAW19dFBnmWyTl_3ZRAFfXZENAlvsps3zv2Rkzi_lzKIjxk/s1600/2012-02-04+20.23.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv5rl8mGD8ynNA1Ng6msX2BNUouWr31jTLgqcpU72E9cSPaG2pFfu9lN-BslLma6uy6x63TbeA8VdhTGAuRR0OApsbT51IAW19dFBnmWyTl_3ZRAFfXZENAlvsps3zv2Rkzi_lzKIjxk/s1600/2012-02-04+20.23.46.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="texteColor2" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ingredients:</strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups (500 mL) diced peeled potatoes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup (125 mL) diced carrots</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp (50 mL) water </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp (5 mL) each fennel and cumin seeds</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp (5 mL) brown or black mustard seeds</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground turmeric and coriander and fenugreek seeds</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp (1 mL) cayenne pepper</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 onion, chopped</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp (15 mL) grated gingerroot</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup (125 mL) frozen peas</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tbsp (50 mL) lemon juice</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp (25 mL) chopped fresh coriander</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Dough:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups (500 mL) whole wheat flour *see note</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp (5 mL) cumin seeds (preferably black)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup (125 mL) each cold banana and milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="texteColor2" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">What to do:</strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="texteColor2" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>Note: place unripe banana in fridge at least two hours prior to making dough. Using a slightly green banana is best. If a ripe is used the dough will taste like bananas. It is also important not to mash the banana p</i></span></span></span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">rior to cutting in to flour, or pulsing in food processor. Cut in to small cubes just before adding. </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Making the dough: </strong><span style="border: 0px; color: #333333; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Using either a </span><span style="color: #333333;">food processor or bowl with pastry cutter, combine flour, black cumin seeds and salt. Pulse or cut in cold banana until small beads begin to form. Then add in non-dairy milk and pulse or stir until dough forms in to a large ball. Shape in to disc, wrap tightly and place in fridge for 30 minutes<i> </i>or longer. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the potatoes and carrots and cook for about 10 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the potatoes and carrots are cooking, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">bring a large frying pan to medium heat, add water and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">begin to toast </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">fennel, cumin and mustard seeds. Add in turmeric, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds and cayenne and toast for about</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 1 minute. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next add onion, garlic, ginger and salt and saute until softened, around 3-5 minutes. Add a tbsp of water at anytime if sticking. Mix in potato, carrots and peas. Then lemon juice and coriander. Set aside and let cool. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove dough from fridge and divide in to 12 pieces. Flour your surface and with a rolling pin, roll dough out in to a pancake shape. Cut the pancake shaped dough in half. Take one of the halves, dab a finger in water and run along cut edge to moisten. Make a cone shape by folding the cut edge in half and press to seal. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cup your hand to hold cone shaped dough comfortably. Fill cone with heaping tbsp of cooled potato mixture. Dab a finger in water again to moisten open inside edges and press to seal. Use a fork to crimp the pressed edges.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and bake in 425°F (220°C) oven. I would preheat the oven around half way or 3/4 the way through hand making the samosas, as that step is quite time consuming. Bake for 15 - 18 minutes (flip after 8 -9 minutes). Serve warm with your favorite chutney or hot sauce. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Note: I used whole wheat flour for this recipe. Whole wheat pastry flour may yield better results, but I haven't tried it. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-63360458147646021172013-02-18T09:41:00.003-08:002013-02-18T09:41:45.304-08:00Organization makes it happen <br />
Does this happen to you? You clean out a cupboard to reorganize. Upon returning with items for said cupboard, you realize you missed the opportunity and the space is now occupied? Empty spaces don't go unoccupied long around here...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAYZg-HAHLykE8Fh6VlpbZhRlANiugKWNKhKMESibfG_fYYiHUHroKdSyiYnxpHYAPgXLewvteCQqOf5sWx8fUyC0hkKWYCYoIVPeMAXo98x2DlRCkJGO2vF2myvp4F2J_KbaUjIp_VM/s1600/IMG_0077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAYZg-HAHLykE8Fh6VlpbZhRlANiugKWNKhKMESibfG_fYYiHUHroKdSyiYnxpHYAPgXLewvteCQqOf5sWx8fUyC0hkKWYCYoIVPeMAXo98x2DlRCkJGO2vF2myvp4F2J_KbaUjIp_VM/s1600/IMG_0077.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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In other not so news, I threw together a very simple salad on the weekend and it was surprisingly super tasty. At times I forget fresh herbs can really take a plate of food from meh to yum! That fresh herb was cilantro. It paired well with spinach, kale, red swiss chard, nutritional yeast and salsa.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CVN5-C9DpA_ylnk5lR5LfHBmkUSHdK1MQSA-cSkqtb0RLLpIsIkWiOKtSmRoi8W6Mhsm6t0wdlCf7KuCksW0VTM4atHpOvH_S0TsS0F1XldXkgMpHfmkvWE-3Ao-qTG-5mbzmWKvuZ0/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CVN5-C9DpA_ylnk5lR5LfHBmkUSHdK1MQSA-cSkqtb0RLLpIsIkWiOKtSmRoi8W6Mhsm6t0wdlCf7KuCksW0VTM4atHpOvH_S0TsS0F1XldXkgMpHfmkvWE-3Ao-qTG-5mbzmWKvuZ0/s1600/IMG_0078.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can whip up a salad like this in minutes since I make sure I keep my fridge stocked with washed leafy greens and veggies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw6PEU7u_qVMlYGty6HGX_xTZ5DqQHQPcaM6VmoB6wC68LDCRsDQwyQUoKAiRtr8JBAuJ9OavlsJAhQZ2jOomLeARQ6-1UbUB2LZwl5HnhnfFuWPxK6ebrTiluHDRqrCCPBNGx0XpLj8/s1600/IMG_0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw6PEU7u_qVMlYGty6HGX_xTZ5DqQHQPcaM6VmoB6wC68LDCRsDQwyQUoKAiRtr8JBAuJ9OavlsJAhQZ2jOomLeARQ6-1UbUB2LZwl5HnhnfFuWPxK6ebrTiluHDRqrCCPBNGx0XpLj8/s1600/IMG_0080.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I did cheat and buy prewashed spinach, sometimes I like paying for a bit of convenience. I have noticed lunches have been really easy to throw together since starting this regimen. For our salads, we often use square Ziploc containers. I use the round ones of the left for spices and left over dried goods.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgCH0E-lRx3xPhGEo3v5w2VdCkvX6DkzTZ8lm6dN0BtnwJ81b4BmYwQNxy_L0L9Yt1aIwCUZEyUUiHqmeCSYGA84kb5N5Ev31tvylwZe64y9R0H6sf0H8hyphenhyphenzPcI_ID3NeJOw4J0LsdP8/s1600/IMG_0084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgCH0E-lRx3xPhGEo3v5w2VdCkvX6DkzTZ8lm6dN0BtnwJ81b4BmYwQNxy_L0L9Yt1aIwCUZEyUUiHqmeCSYGA84kb5N5Ev31tvylwZe64y9R0H6sf0H8hyphenhyphenzPcI_ID3NeJOw4J0LsdP8/s1600/IMG_0084.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Since I usually top my salads with fruit and don't use any dressing, clean up is a breeze. After a salad I always finish my lunch with a grain or root vegetable, beans and more veggies. I bring this in a Pyrex dish, as seen below and remove the lid to heat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTL9nlLKD52pcRBlHtZe0glyPVT6IGU6qmtw6nQ7-TfaDadkcOk8-biVL93ZghG3CHG8xZfcxpUnmIeYpnS6NNqR4ORiVSUvdXqp3fRSqftQZtTnoCQwn-VA83ChVH8-H__cczugtvcsI/s1600/IMG_0082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTL9nlLKD52pcRBlHtZe0glyPVT6IGU6qmtw6nQ7-TfaDadkcOk8-biVL93ZghG3CHG8xZfcxpUnmIeYpnS6NNqR4ORiVSUvdXqp3fRSqftQZtTnoCQwn-VA83ChVH8-H__cczugtvcsI/s1600/IMG_0082.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Doing this small amount of prep on the weekend takes little time and effort. Being prepared ensures I have healthy meals and snacks, since I always have something to go home to or pack with me. Having practical storage containers keeps the process simple. You know those <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBX5JmJJs3E">infomercials</a> when the Tupperware is exploding out of the drawer or cupboard? Don't let that be you...Uh oh, I'm starting to sound like one. But for real, we find that sticking with a few container sizes and one or two brands keeps everything going smooth. No losing lids or the drawer jamming, or getting pancake mix in your hair (it could happen!). Now that I'm all organized, I guess I should take my lunch to work. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-83630015371094688512013-02-12T12:11:00.001-08:002013-02-12T12:11:08.898-08:00Weekend Noms <br />
Hey Peeps! So nice to have a long weekend. First year for Family day in BC, woot! Throughout the weekend I did some fairly lazy nomming, even hitting up <a href="http://pitapit.ca/consumer">Pita Pit</a>. Twice...They have $1 off coupons right now and their veggies are always fresh, I can't resist. With the extra day, I did make an effort to bake a cake. Not just any cake, a chocolate cake. A moist chocolate cake, with a mystery ingredient. See recipe, and mystery ingredient, below.<br />
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Lazy breakfast - shredded wheat with pineapple, bananas and pomegranate seeds:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODyi9d_poC1893hQLoJH4k11e78wihQ5QZMUvrYdsOq9wiOkVtrBib5u4c0rKgGgjom1yNbKmSgbYcj3n8T4JcumgsjxIVkweYK-DgOU81_dhEV8q1rCSjHB-XYFBbT4qoSJYV2o16Xw/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODyi9d_poC1893hQLoJH4k11e78wihQ5QZMUvrYdsOq9wiOkVtrBib5u4c0rKgGgjom1yNbKmSgbYcj3n8T4JcumgsjxIVkweYK-DgOU81_dhEV8q1rCSjHB-XYFBbT4qoSJYV2o16Xw/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lazy salad - coleslaw, organic kale with pineapple and pomegranate seeds:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T_awQBharYpR6kfCtGuYrkGVnOsS0vx0Ow5cQpFZw92OO76kEDyaGx7u44KpsO-FSce_GBuPmzHq_viQKYhVrOCqmTACPTL3cyCOygN3_eWIJx52j_ghnBG_DYdwmp0XXLN_zdKCFEs/s1600/IMG_0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6T_awQBharYpR6kfCtGuYrkGVnOsS0vx0Ow5cQpFZw92OO76kEDyaGx7u44KpsO-FSce_GBuPmzHq_viQKYhVrOCqmTACPTL3cyCOygN3_eWIJx52j_ghnBG_DYdwmp0XXLN_zdKCFEs/s1600/IMG_0056.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now for the not so lazy chocolate cake. But as far as cakes go, this one is fairly simple. It is low in fat, vegan and accidentally gluten free. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Moist Quinoa Chocolate Cake</span></b> </div>
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(Recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.ucook.com/Recipes/RecipeFull.aspx?RecipeID=67671">ucook</a>, courtesy of<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 14px;"> 365 Quinoa – The Everyday Superfood</span>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhkksF8A-dejJME_xHIWQ2pYLpvfqUpHEOB62QTbB53Fp_MxkDgZDqWRa_M39XzYLsc_NkAOnM27BNAgtEZRgSO0G6diP8XzLT9E0vtC0YozBEa8xuxKP6PuUyDCPO5cpVbzRLcyqIKw/s1600/IMG_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhkksF8A-dejJME_xHIWQ2pYLpvfqUpHEOB62QTbB53Fp_MxkDgZDqWRa_M39XzYLsc_NkAOnM27BNAgtEZRgSO0G6diP8XzLT9E0vtC0YozBEa8xuxKP6PuUyDCPO5cpVbzRLcyqIKw/s1600/IMG_0065.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Ingredients </b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">2/3 cup (150 mL) quinoa</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">1 1/3 cup (325 mL) water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">1/3 cup (75 mL) almond milk, or other type of non-dairy milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">4 tsp cornstarch + 12 tsp water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">1 tsp (5 mL) pure vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">3/4 cup (175 mL) applesauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">3/4 (375 mL) brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">1 cup (250 mL) unsweetened cocoa powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">1 ½ tsp (7.5 mL) baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">½ tsp (2.5 mL) baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px;">½ tsp (2.5 mL) salt</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;">What to do</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cover, reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.Turn off the heat and leave the covered saucepan on the burner for another 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow the quinoa to cool.<br /><br />2. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease two 8 inch (20 cm) round or square cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. In a small dish, combine the cornstarch and water and set aside.<br /><br />4. Combine the non-dairy milk,cornstarch mixture and vanilla in a blender or food processor. Add 2 cups (500 mL) of cooked quinoa and apple sauce and blend until smooth.<br /><br />5. Whisk together sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. Add the quinoa mixture from the blender and mix well.<br /><br />6. Divide the batter evenly between the 2 pans and bake on the centre oven rack for 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the centre comes out clean.<br /><br />7. Cool on wire rack before serving. (careful not to break apart when flipping cake over). Top with frozen fruit, melted chocolate, icing or eat as is. </span></div>
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<b>Note:</b> I plan to try this recipe with mashed bananas or flax or chia eggs instead of the cornstarch and water mixture. I will report back on the tastings ;)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531419683968627994.post-21489592306537700342013-02-08T08:42:00.000-08:002013-02-08T08:43:02.195-08:00Polenta, served two ways<br />
<b id="internal-source-marker_0.7823279702570289" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello! Please check out my </span><a href="http://inlovewithplantbased.blogspot.ca/p/about.html"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">about me</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> page if you haven't already.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don't often meal plan. Most of the time, I just make sure I have wholesome foods in the fridge, readily adaptable for different types of meals. When my husband asked me the other night "what should we do for dinner?", I realized I didn't have much for starches in the fridge. Luckily we were at </span><a href="https://plus.google.com/117473531253588603524/about?gl=ca&hl=en"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Langley Farm Market</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> when he asked, and I happened to be looking at ready made Polenta. We decided to do a pizza for him and individual sliced polenta with toppings, for me.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We baked the polenta first, according to the package directions (without oil), on parchment. Then he made his pizza, topped with sauce, sundried tomatoes and black beans. Baking it as per the pizza crusts instructions. I kept it simple and topped my polenta slices with homemade pizza sauce (strained tomatoes, italian seasoning, garlic and onion powder) and black beans, served on a bed of spinach.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">His pizza (lacking in colorful veggies, boo!):</span></b><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><img height="320px;" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/78lnpujxC5BWr6VwDuhj2qnbEtqQZYmH7X8MobFctv6FWPwnmAQAQygXWi8XTFyMp9Uhj6Tn7JcP5eDdDTRjQXUp0Onhgcb3nKeunGQCq1aMu0noiI1NjB3_" width="427px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Polenta slices:</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><img height="320px;" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tWWvidXMPpNRe_ukQfiIwcCObVVE0uRLR-upobXYSn4U_jCSivLdphjAmu1gMiDL8l_3SvnXJJa-kt_L3crktRBzz2baS9xmeNRFaYR3lLwzzWfIRT9nU8UO" width="427px;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although we discovered the polenta needed more seasoning, it didn't stop me from having seconds, I really like this idea for a different and quick meal. Next time I'm thinking of dusting the slices with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, onion powder and garlic powder prior to baking.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking forward to trying out more recipes with polenta in the future. </span></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10823756451008018365noreply@blogger.com0