Hey all!
So, I am a member of Good Life Gyms and work out perhaps 2-3 times a week.
My housemate loves their Body Pump classes and somehow convinced me to go with her Sunday morning. Oh.my.god.
I didn't even know armpits could be in pain! I have absolutely NO upper arm strength. None. So, when the class is 90 percent upper body workouts, I nearly died. But, it was a good total body workout. I felt like I seriously did a good thing for my body, especially since summer is around the corner.
So my moral of the story is, go to a fitness class! It may suck the next day, but you will probably get a better workout than working out on your own.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Hey Veggimites!
Well, school is almost over, which means this blog will shortly come to an end. It's been a learning experience. I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would. In hindsight, I would perhaps chosen a broader topic to do my blog on. It was hard coming up with new topics each week. But, it allowed me to re-evaluate by lifestyle and see what was blog worthy about it!
I hope those who actually read this blog found it informative and perhaps broke some of the preconceived myths which surround vegetarians. We aren't that bad, I promise!
Thanks again to all who read these posts.
Peace, love and carrots!
I hope those who actually read this blog found it informative and perhaps broke some of the preconceived myths which surround vegetarians. We aren't that bad, I promise!
Thanks again to all who read these posts.
Peace, love and carrots!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Favourite Things for March
I can't believe March is almost over! Time seems to fly by. As I did for February, there are a couple things I've tried/experienced which I really liked over this month!
March is a teaser month- it's the end of winter (supposedly) yet, we still experience sub zero temperatures. But, these are a few things which made the beginning of spring that much sweeter.
1. Vegetarian Chili.
Easiest. Thing. Ever. Seriously.
All you need is:
1. 1 can of tomatoes
2. 1 can of beans (really can use any kind of beans, I like using bean salad)
3. Chili flavoring (usually pre-packaged, bought it for under $2 at Planet Organic)
All you do is mix all 3 into a sauce pan and stir until desired thickness. So delish and simple!
2. Running
I've been running now for almost a year and began training for my third 10K race. I usually run in the summer, but figured spring is all about new beginnings! I've joined a running clinic and have been pretty good in maintaining a set schedule. I've also been doing yoga twice a week as a cross training method.
3. Tomato and Avocado Sandwiches
Both are delish foods, and high in nutrient value. It's quite simple:
1. Toast bread
2. Scoop and core 1/2 of an avocado and spread on toast
3. Slice 1/2 a tomato and place on top of avocado
4. Enjoy!
Again, so simple and wonderfully filling.
Hope April brings in some more favorite things!
March is a teaser month- it's the end of winter (supposedly) yet, we still experience sub zero temperatures. But, these are a few things which made the beginning of spring that much sweeter.
1. Vegetarian Chili.
Easiest. Thing. Ever. Seriously.
All you need is:
1. 1 can of tomatoes
2. 1 can of beans (really can use any kind of beans, I like using bean salad)
3. Chili flavoring (usually pre-packaged, bought it for under $2 at Planet Organic)
All you do is mix all 3 into a sauce pan and stir until desired thickness. So delish and simple!
2. Running
I've been running now for almost a year and began training for my third 10K race. I usually run in the summer, but figured spring is all about new beginnings! I've joined a running clinic and have been pretty good in maintaining a set schedule. I've also been doing yoga twice a week as a cross training method.
3. Tomato and Avocado Sandwiches
Both are delish foods, and high in nutrient value. It's quite simple:
1. Toast bread
2. Scoop and core 1/2 of an avocado and spread on toast
3. Slice 1/2 a tomato and place on top of avocado
4. Enjoy!
Again, so simple and wonderfully filling.
Hope April brings in some more favorite things!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Organic Food in the Globe and Mail
Today's Globe and Mail had an interesting article about the recession and organic foods. Specifically, the article focuses on 'mom and pop' type organic food stores and how the recession has affected them. Enjoy!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Organic vs Regular Food
Over the past few years organic foods have been thrust into the limelight. Soon, organic food stores popped up everywhere, becoming almost as popular as regular grocery stores. Even in grocery stores organic and natural foods have become increasingly popular.
Foods which we have grown to love have jumped on the natural and organic train. Majority of ads focus their type on the natural benefits of their product. However, the prices for these items are sometimes double the regular price for their conventional option.
I'm not sure where I stand on this debate. I know it's not well liked to be a fence sitter on issues, but I am. I do believe organic apples taste way better than regular apples. I had organic yogurt covered pretzels and nearly died from splendor. However, foods with shells and peels I have yet to see a difference.
There are many articles about this issue. Grinning Planet is pro-organic article, reporting in detail the benefits of organic. Actually, majority of hits which came up on goggle were pro-organic. I couldn't find an article strictly supporting conventional foods. If you do find one, please let me know!
Foods which should be eaten as organic tend to be those without a shell or peel. If you do not prepare the food prior to eating (apples, strawberries, potatoes, etc) should be organic. The best thing to do it to buy something organic, along with its conventional option and do a taste test. If you don't like it, then don't buy it! But don't simply buy one over the other based strictly on others options. Do what is best for you and your body. You are your best investment, so invest wisely!
Monday, March 9, 2009
My Cambodian Veg Story
On Saturday night, I attended a birthday dinner party. The hostess knew I was a veg, and made a wonderful veg friendly lasagna. Upon hearing about my culinary choices, I heard the phrase, "Oh wow, a vegetarian? Now, WHY would you EVER want to be one? What made you decide to be one?" My favorite was, "Vegetarian, well that means you can eat this shrimp, right?"
My life as a veg started about 2 years ago. In May 2007, I traveled to Cambodia for a month, volunteering with several NGOs (non government organizations). We were warned that sanitation was not the highest quality and be weary about what we ate. During the beginning of the month (this time I was still a meatatarian) I ate some chicken, beef and pork. This all changed after 2 life altering experience. The first, happened during a visit to the Russian Market. Essentially, this market is hundreds of 'shops' huddled together in a small area. You can buy clothes, purses, jewelery and food. We walked through the market and came to the food shops. Now, when I say shops, I mean, we saw where and how food, especially meat, was prepared. I won't go into details, but essentially, I saw bare feet touching meat, meat laying out in the sun, flies and other bugs landing on meat, among other sights. This definitely turned my stomach.
The second experience happened during our visit to Angkor Wat. I was walking back to the tuk tuk (Cambodian mode of transportation) and saw recently deceased pigs, bundled together, on the back of a motorcycle. Gross! After this, I swore off pork and beef. I stopped eating chicken and fish this past summer, just to see if I could do it. And, I have! I mean, if someone forgot that I am a veg, then I may eat seafood. Majority of the time I love my veggies!
My life as a veg started about 2 years ago. In May 2007, I traveled to Cambodia for a month, volunteering with several NGOs (non government organizations). We were warned that sanitation was not the highest quality and be weary about what we ate. During the beginning of the month (this time I was still a meatatarian) I ate some chicken, beef and pork. This all changed after 2 life altering experience. The first, happened during a visit to the Russian Market. Essentially, this market is hundreds of 'shops' huddled together in a small area. You can buy clothes, purses, jewelery and food. We walked through the market and came to the food shops. Now, when I say shops, I mean, we saw where and how food, especially meat, was prepared. I won't go into details, but essentially, I saw bare feet touching meat, meat laying out in the sun, flies and other bugs landing on meat, among other sights. This definitely turned my stomach.
The second experience happened during our visit to Angkor Wat. I was walking back to the tuk tuk (Cambodian mode of transportation) and saw recently deceased pigs, bundled together, on the back of a motorcycle. Gross! After this, I swore off pork and beef. I stopped eating chicken and fish this past summer, just to see if I could do it. And, I have! I mean, if someone forgot that I am a veg, then I may eat seafood. Majority of the time I love my veggies!
Monday, March 2, 2009
My Running Goals
In my 10k clinic, we were told to write down our short and long term goals. I thought if I published them on the web, I'd be held more accountable!
ULTIMATE GOAL: Run a marathon before I am married (17 months from now)
DREAM GOAL (what you need to do to get to ultimate goal): Complete 10k training without injury and without missing more than three clinics
PERFORMANCE GOAL: Run Mississauga 10k race in 50 minutes and without walking
EXTRINSIC REWARD: If I complete my performance goal, I will buy something cute from Lululemon :)
As of now, running 5km in 30 minutes.....9 weeks to go.....
ULTIMATE GOAL: Run a marathon before I am married (17 months from now)
DREAM GOAL (what you need to do to get to ultimate goal): Complete 10k training without injury and without missing more than three clinics
PERFORMANCE GOAL: Run Mississauga 10k race in 50 minutes and without walking
EXTRINSIC REWARD: If I complete my performance goal, I will buy something cute from Lululemon :)
As of now, running 5km in 30 minutes.....9 weeks to go.....
My other love...running
Although this blog is dedicated to a veggie lifestyle, that does not always have to be about food. Regular physical activity is another aspect to living veg. For me, my hobby and exercise of choice is running. I have only been running seriously for about a year. I ran track and field in high school, but only short distances. In OAC my friend Megan and I tried our luck at cross country. Unfortunately, my undiagnosed asthma had another agenda, and prevented me from fully competing. Now, asthma is under control, and after running two 10K races, I have the passion.
On Friday I began my Running Room 10K clinic. We run on Wednesday and Friday evenings and Sunday mornings. This weekend had horrible weather (-20 at night, -16 Sunday morning) but I still ran!
The Running Room offers both walking and running clinics, ranging from Learning How to Run/Walk to Marathon & Triathlon training. My group consists of about 15 runners, with me being probably one of the youngest. So do not let age be your excuse! It's a great way to get out and remain accountable to yourself. You are your best resource, so you should invest in yourself!
Winter running has its pros and cons. You don't have to deal with smog and humidity, but you do deal with wind chills and ice. Dressing appropriately is very important. You need multiple layers.
These tops have an exceptional sleek, slim fit and work as a base layer or on their own. Spandex in fabric provides muscle support and ease of mobility. They come in a variety of colors and sizes.
This unisex jacket has Fabric zip toggle, which makes it easier to rip it off when you get too warm. There are also water beads off surface, 3 Scotchlite tapping on front and arms for 360 degree visibility (very important if you run in the dark) and underarm zippers for improved ventilation.
Finally, dry fit running leggings allow your legs to move easily, without tripping over yourself. It keeps warmth in, and are wind resistant. The head is another VERY important area to cover. Toques, ear warmers and baseball caps prevent heat from leaving your head. Now, don't feel like you need to break the bank. Some prefer Nike, while others go to Winners. It's all up to you. Remember, the fact that you're out there, putting one foot forward is WAY more important than how you dress.
On Friday I began my Running Room 10K clinic. We run on Wednesday and Friday evenings and Sunday mornings. This weekend had horrible weather (-20 at night, -16 Sunday morning) but I still ran!
The Running Room offers both walking and running clinics, ranging from Learning How to Run/Walk to Marathon & Triathlon training. My group consists of about 15 runners, with me being probably one of the youngest. So do not let age be your excuse! It's a great way to get out and remain accountable to yourself. You are your best resource, so you should invest in yourself!
Winter running has its pros and cons. You don't have to deal with smog and humidity, but you do deal with wind chills and ice. Dressing appropriately is very important. You need multiple layers.
These tops have an exceptional sleek, slim fit and work as a base layer or on their own. Spandex in fabric provides muscle support and ease of mobility. They come in a variety of colors and sizes.
This unisex jacket has Fabric zip toggle, which makes it easier to rip it off when you get too warm. There are also water beads off surface, 3 Scotchlite tapping on front and arms for 360 degree visibility (very important if you run in the dark) and underarm zippers for improved ventilation.
Finally, dry fit running leggings allow your legs to move easily, without tripping over yourself. It keeps warmth in, and are wind resistant. The head is another VERY important area to cover. Toques, ear warmers and baseball caps prevent heat from leaving your head. Now, don't feel like you need to break the bank. Some prefer Nike, while others go to Winners. It's all up to you. Remember, the fact that you're out there, putting one foot forward is WAY more important than how you dress.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Veggie Friendly Celebrities
It's almost the end of February!
Thank goodness. However, one thing which keeps me entertained during this horrid month is award season. I love seeing celebs out on the red carpet.
As we know, the majority of celebs are very health conscious. And this is what this blog is about- veg celebs!
Some may surprise you, others may not. I know I was surprised about a few.
1. Natalie Portman:
Love her. I love how she quit acting to get her BA. I love how she proves being successful doesn't mean selling out your morals. She is amazing. She also has a vegan friendly shoe company, called Te Casan. Their website is currently being reconstructed and should be running soon.
2. Casey Affleck:
Have you seen him in Good Will Hunting or Gone Baby Gone? Very well done. He has lost some points with the whole Joaquin Phoenix fiasco. However, being a veg celeb makes up for his lame choice of friends.
3. Stella & Paul McCartney:
This daughter/father duo are both famous and successful by their own right. Stella is one of the few celeb offspring who is actually famous for her own talent. All of her clothes are made from organic materials. I hope one day I could afford one of her designs! Have a view her website
4. Alicia Silverstone:
After being criticized for gaining weight, Alicia replaced her high fat diet with an all veg diet. Now, she looks amazing. Her ads with PETA are beautiful. Here is her testimonial:
Like most people, I wasn’t always a vegetarian, but I’ve always loved animals. If you ever have a chance to meet a cow, pig, turkey, or goat, you will see that they are just as cute and funny as your dogs and cats and that they, too, want to live and feel love. They don’t like pain. Now when I see a steak, it makes me feel sad and sick because right away, I see my dog or the amazing cows I met at a sanctuary. I’ve been vegan for 10 years, and it’s the single-most important and helpful decision I have ever made. Physically, the effect has been amazing. Once I went vegan, I lost the weight I wanted to lose, my nails were stronger, and my skin was glowing. I feel great, and I look better now than I did 11 years ago.
Read more about Alicia's story at Peta's website
And here are some pics of other veg celebs:
Leona Lewis
Hayden Panettiere, from Heroes
Pamela Anderson
As you can see, these are a few of the MANY veg celebs dominating Hollywood.
Peace, love and carrots
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
A few of my favourite veggie things
Thank goodness February is almost over. Finding good things about this month is very difficult. Good moods are few and far between, and it seems so appropriate to cuddle on the couch with some chips and watch American Idol. So, in order to boost my spirits (and perhaps yours!) I am going to focus on the positives, things which I have discovered during the month of February.
1. Whole Foods Market
I know a lot of opinions vary about natural and organic foods. Some people only buy organic, while others (probably the majority) think its a hoax. As I've mentioned several times, I LOVE food. Like, seriously have a mad crush on it. I get excited when 6pm comes around, just so I can cook. Last week, a girlfriend and I discovered Whole Foods. I've been commuting to Oakville for almost 6 months, and had yet to step foot into this place. An hour later, we both left with huge smiles on our faces. The variety is amazing, freshness bar none, and most importantly, the prices were not too insane. Now, I didn't buy everything organic, which cost a bit more, but all in all, what I paid here was just slightly higher than any other grocer. But, the foods I got were made with natural ingredients, and I got foods which I couldn't find anywhere else. I have a new crush, and its name is Whole Foods.
2. Spicy Mixed Nuts
Amazing. Simply amazing. I have already sent this recipe to several people and all love it. I got it from Skinny Bitch in the Kitch. Here is the recipe:
1 egg
2 tablespoons warm water
1 pound roasted, salted mixed nuts
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1.5 teaspoons cayenne powder
Preheat oven to 250F
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and water until foamy. Add the nuts and toss to coat. Transfer the nuts to a strainer and let drain for at least 2 minutes.
Meanwhile, wipe out the bowl and combine the sugar, salt and cayenne. Add the nuts, tossing to coat. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes. Stir with a spatula and spread the nuts out again. Reduce heat to 200F and bake another 30 minutes, or until dry.
They nuts will crisp as they cool to room temperature. Thoroughly cooled, they can be stored for up to one week in an airtight containe
r.
If you try this and don't like it.....then....I just don't know. Side note, you don't need this much sugar. I use about 1/2 a cup and if I need more than gingerly add it while coating the nuts.
3. M.I.A.
I know this doesn't directly link to food, but, exercise is a part of a veggie lifestyle. I saw Slumdog Millionaire in January, and earlier this month decided to download some of the songs. O Saya is an absolutely amazing song. The beat is great for running, especially when you are about to approach a really tough hill or need that extra bit of motivation. I've downloaded a couple of her songs and they make running that much easier.
So there you go- 3 little things which help make this month that much more bareable.
peace, love and carrots.
Monday, February 9, 2009
"But, how do you get your protein?"
Besides being asked, "what made you go vegetarian?", the next popular question is, "but, how do you get your protein?!" I have to admit, I am not the best at getting my daily essential protein. I was browsing online today, and found on vegetariantimes.com a great article about veggies and protein. They outlined 8 protein rich foods which veggies should eat...
1. Tofu
Ugh. Really. Tofu? I am trying REALLY hard to make tofu interesting. But it is so hard. So far, the best result has been to marinate and then pan fry. I probably lose all the nutritional value, but it's the only way I can eat it! Besides being high in protein, it's rich in calcium an
d vitamin D.2. Lentils
These are great to add to soups. They can be bought in bulk, which makes it a lot cheaper. They are also good for fiber!
3. Beans
These are a veggies best friend. They can be added to anything, or simply eaten on their own. Make sure to wash them really well, as canned beans are typically covered in syrup and salt. Nasty.
4. Nuts
Last week I made this wicked Spicy Nut Mix, which was absolutely delish! Almonds are great for protein and help ward off hunger. With this mix, some organic sugar was added and that helped with my sweet tooth.
For a complete list go and visit www.vegetariantimes.com and you will find the list on its homepage labeled, " 8 Foods Every Vegetarian Should Eat." They go more into detail about the protein and nutritional value of each food.
peace, love and carrots
L.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Where all the Cool Veggimites Shop
Happy Monday!
Although it may sound lame, but one of my favorite things to do is grocery shop. I love looking up recipes before hand, browsing the aisles looking for fun and interesting foods, and then trying out my new creations at home. Finding food for the veggie friendly can sometimes be a task, but it is not too difficult!
For today's post I want to share my favorite food shopping places.
1. St.Lawrence's Market
One of Toronto's oldest landmarks, the St.Lawrence Market is the mecca of all farmer's markets. I recommend going on a Saturday morning, as you will witness first hand Toronto's diversity and multiculturalism. Do try and go early, to avoid some of the rush. Breakfast is the best! The market holds hundreds of vendors. There are so many types of vegetables, fruits, breads, pastries, meats, sauces, marinades, etc. Also, take cash, as majority of vendors do not accept credit or debit.
Make sure to take your time, don't rush. I like to go by myself, as I like to wander and take my time. Going with a friend, parent and significant other is also fun. Sometimes just people watching makes the trip totally worthwhile.
Here is their link for more information, such as hours of operation, maps, directions and other information
www..stlawrencemarket.com
2. Loblaws
Sometimes you just don't have time to spend the day at the market. For quick, convenience and variety, I really like Loblaws (or now Loblaw in some locations). Their veggie friendly frozen meals (I especially enjoy Amy's organic brand of frozen dinners) is reasonably priced. Loblaws tend to have many sales on its veggie friendly and organic foods.
3. Planet Organic
You may have seen their link on my blog. I love this little store! Although it is somewhat expensive, I know what I am putting in my body is healthy. If I spend a bit more on some organic skin care, I just don't drink at the bar that weekend. Their health and beauty section is
wonderful. I find my skin goes crazy in winter, and Planet Organic has merchandise which really helps my skin. It may be more expensive than Shoppers, but I think its worth it. Not all of my beauty products are organic, but I do try and buy shampoo, conditioner, and body cream natural. If I have extra room in the budget, cleanser and toner would be bought too.
4. Bulk Barn
Bulk Barn is amazing. As evident by its name, Bulk Barn sells food in bulk. This is wonderful for nuts, lentils, beans, spices and the occasional candy fix. This is a cheaper alternative to the pre-packaged nuts, etc you get at a grocery store.
I try and be tight with my spending- ordering water at a restaurant with my meal, buying clothes 50% off. One thing I do not skimp out on is food. Food is so central to everything I do. Whether its having some wine and appetizers with girlfriends in a living room, sharing a romantic home cook meal with a loved one, or just having some fun in the kitchen with a new recipe, food is a staple in my life.
Embrace food, and it will embrace you back!
Peace, Love and Carrots
L.
Although it may sound lame, but one of my favorite things to do is grocery shop. I love looking up recipes before hand, browsing the aisles looking for fun and interesting foods, and then trying out my new creations at home. Finding food for the veggie friendly can sometimes be a task, but it is not too difficult!
For today's post I want to share my favorite food shopping places.
1. St.Lawrence's Market
One of Toronto's oldest landmarks, the St.Lawrence Market is the mecca of all farmer's markets. I recommend going on a Saturday morning, as you will witness first hand Toronto's diversity and multiculturalism. Do try and go early, to avoid some of the rush. Breakfast is the best! The market holds hundreds of vendors. There are so many types of vegetables, fruits, breads, pastries, meats, sauces, marinades, etc. Also, take cash, as majority of vendors do not accept credit or debit.
Make sure to take your time, don't rush. I like to go by myself, as I like to wander and take my time. Going with a friend, parent and significant other is also fun. Sometimes just people watching makes the trip totally worthwhile.
Here is their link for more information, such as hours of operation, maps, directions and other information
www..stlawrencemarket.com
2. Loblaws
Sometimes you just don't have time to spend the day at the market. For quick, convenience and variety, I really like Loblaws (or now Loblaw in some locations). Their veggie friendly frozen meals (I especially enjoy Amy's organic brand of frozen dinners) is reasonably priced. Loblaws tend to have many sales on its veggie friendly and organic foods.
3. Planet Organic
You may have seen their link on my blog. I love this little store! Although it is somewhat expensive, I know what I am putting in my body is healthy. If I spend a bit more on some organic skin care, I just don't drink at the bar that weekend. Their health and beauty section is
wonderful. I find my skin goes crazy in winter, and Planet Organic has merchandise which really helps my skin. It may be more expensive than Shoppers, but I think its worth it. Not all of my beauty products are organic, but I do try and buy shampoo, conditioner, and body cream natural. If I have extra room in the budget, cleanser and toner would be bought too.
4. Bulk Barn
Bulk Barn is amazing. As evident by its name, Bulk Barn sells food in bulk. This is wonderful for nuts, lentils, beans, spices and the occasional candy fix. This is a cheaper alternative to the pre-packaged nuts, etc you get at a grocery store.
I try and be tight with my spending- ordering water at a restaurant with my meal, buying clothes 50% off. One thing I do not skimp out on is food. Food is so central to everything I do. Whether its having some wine and appetizers with girlfriends in a living room, sharing a romantic home cook meal with a loved one, or just having some fun in the kitchen with a new recipe, food is a staple in my life.
Embrace food, and it will embrace you back!
Peace, Love and Carrots
L.
Monday, January 26, 2009
A New Take on an Old Fave
This is a new recipe which I am going to try this week. Sounds delish and not too bad on the calories. It is however, a little high on the sodium. If anyone cooks this let me know what you think!
Grilled Cheese
Fresh basil and fig preserves transform good ol’ grilled cheese into a sophisticated sandwich. Honey-lovers will like this recipe as is; others may prefer the less-sweet honey-free rendition. Directions
Nutritional Information
Grilled Cheese
with Fig and Basil
Vegetarian Times Issue: January 1, 2006 p.42
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|
|
Fresh basil and fig preserves transform good ol’ grilled cheese into a sophisticated sandwich. Honey-lovers will like this recipe as is; others may prefer the less-sweet honey-free rendition.
Directions
- Combine chèvre and honey, if using, in bowl, and mix until well blended. Spread about 1 Tbs. mixture on each of 4 bread slices; top with 1/2 tsp. basil each. Spread remaining slices of bread with 1 1/2 tsp. fig preserves. Close sandwiches, and lightly coat both sides with cooking spray.
- Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 sandwiches to skillet. Place heavy skillet or pot on top of sandwiches; press gently to flatten. Cook 3 minutes on each side, or until bread is lightly toasted (leave skillet or pot on sandwiches while they cook). Repeat with remaining sandwiches. Serve warm.
Serves 4
- 4 oz. chèvre (soft goat cheese)
- 1 Tbs. honey, optional
- 8 thin slices cinnamon-raisin bread
- 2 tsp. minced fresh basil
- 2 Tbs. fig preserves
Nutritional Information
Per SERVING:
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Total fat | 10g |
| Saturated fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 20g |
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Saturday Night is Alright For Eating Homemade Pasta
Happy Saturday!
Today, my dad and I went to St.Lawrence Market today for a sole purpose. To get ingredients for homemade pasta. I love St. Lawrence on Saturdays. It's so full of life with the most interesting cast of characters. The food is unbelievable, with produce that I have never seen before. It is a dream land for food lovers. That's the thing- I thought becoming a veggie would limit my food options-with myths of nasty tofu with flavorless veggies as a side. This could not be further from the truth. Becoming a veggie has allowed me to expand into new and creative ways to make meals. I get more excited now about cooking at home than going out for dinner. But I digress...
When we came back to my dad's we were armed and ready for our pasta adventure. We were going to make tortellini with butternut squash and ricotta cheese as a stuffing, with a garden salad and freshly made french baguettes. Excited, we began making the dough and then.....it failed. Like, epic failure. Not only was the pasta inedible, but we put bets on how quickly it would disintegrate in hot water. Nasty! Which is so very sucky, because I was so excited about this!!! Boo urns. Oh well-chudleighs blueberry pie helped ease the pain. :)
peace, love and carrots to all!
L.
Monday, January 19, 2009
The friendly veggie
Whenever I tell someone I am a vegetarian (which I lovingly call 'being a veggie') I get the following responses:
1. OMG, no way! I had no idea.
2. Wow, seriously....no meat?! How is that even possible, I could NEVER do that!
3. Now how am I suppose to cook a meal for you?! (thanks mom....)
I have learned the fine art of smiling and nodding. I kindly answer their questions, and then life continues as normal. I am fortunately, because the majority of my friends and family wholly support my lifestyle and make sure there are plenty of options when I come over for dinner.
This blog is for my Corporate Communications program, in our Online Communications class, where we have to blog about something of interest to us. Since being a veggie affects me daily, I've decided to blog about this! Being a 24 year old veggie has its challenges, and sometimes I do buckle, especially if I am at Christmas Dinner or if a shrimp cocktail is being offered at a party, I may indulge. I'm not perfect and sometimes having a quick bite of some turkey allows me to feel involved with holiday dinners. But, this is only a few times a year. 99.9% of the time I chose a veggie lifestyle. To be honest, I did have some chicken at a professional event and I almost ralphed it up on the drive home. Sometimes, when its between starving because there was NO food besides bruschetta and chicken kabobs, a girl has to do what a girl has to do.
All in all, life as a veggie is great. More on that later!
love, peace and carrots
L.
1. OMG, no way! I had no idea.
2. Wow, seriously....no meat?! How is that even possible, I could NEVER do that!
3. Now how am I suppose to cook a meal for you?! (thanks mom....)
I have learned the fine art of smiling and nodding. I kindly answer their questions, and then life continues as normal. I am fortunately, because the majority of my friends and family wholly support my lifestyle and make sure there are plenty of options when I come over for dinner.
This blog is for my Corporate Communications program, in our Online Communications class, where we have to blog about something of interest to us. Since being a veggie affects me daily, I've decided to blog about this! Being a 24 year old veggie has its challenges, and sometimes I do buckle, especially if I am at Christmas Dinner or if a shrimp cocktail is being offered at a party, I may indulge. I'm not perfect and sometimes having a quick bite of some turkey allows me to feel involved with holiday dinners. But, this is only a few times a year. 99.9% of the time I chose a veggie lifestyle. To be honest, I did have some chicken at a professional event and I almost ralphed it up on the drive home. Sometimes, when its between starving because there was NO food besides bruschetta and chicken kabobs, a girl has to do what a girl has to do.
All in all, life as a veggie is great. More on that later!
love, peace and carrots
L.
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