tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72052682670213821062024-03-13T12:49:43.485-07:00Hot Chica Cooks VeganNo longer a stay at home Mami but still trying to cook mostly vegan everyday while working part-time, keeping house, getting kids to their auditions and on set.
Hodgepodge of life as a mom living in the city.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-84160528384970724362015-08-20T14:35:00.001-07:002015-08-20T14:35:07.526-07:00Still here...<p dir="ltr">Working so much and trying to squeeze in a workout or two. Time to schedule some intense writing...</p>
null<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0Glendale, United States34.1486833128492 -118.23701519583tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-24370246420832216082013-12-16T09:11:00.001-08:002013-12-16T09:11:34.427-08:00Two Things I Have Learned Through Online ShoppingFull disclosure:<br />
I like to hold on to my money for as long as I can. <br />
I also hate HATE paying full price for ANYTHING.<br />
<br />
Since all my kids are now in a public school I have been working part-time.<br />
Getting to (or wanting to) go shopping has been really low in my want to-do list.<br />
<br />
Online shopping is now back on to things I love to do but now because of it's popularity many online stores or dot com stores are offering free shipping. <br />
Recently I discovered 2 things:<br />
1. When you create a "favorite list" and check it a week later at least one of the items will be on sale.<br />
2. If you add things in a "shopping cart" a few days later they will email you reminding you of your items AND they will offer a discount offer like 10% or free shipping. <br />
<br />
How awesome is that!<br />
<br />
I had some items recently in a yarn shop and offered they offered me in an email 20% off PLUS free shipping!!!<br />
<br />
Online shopping is so much more fulfilling and a little bit dangerous.<br />
<br />
:-)<br />
<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-14134878849339862442013-11-07T08:24:00.000-08:002013-11-07T08:24:16.956-08:005 Minutes<span style="font-size: large;">This morning I watched the sun rise from behind the mountain. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was lovely shade of orange against blue and gray skies. It was humbling to watch that this morning. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes we really need to press that pause button and take it all in. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today I realized I can take 5 minutes to just breathe and count my blessings. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5 minutes of no movement.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5 minutes of not thinking about my next hustle.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5 minutes of not thinking about my next move.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5 minutes of phone silence. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Emails, texts, social medias can wait.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am reclaiming my 5 minutes of quietness.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My 5 minutes of just looking out my bedroom window and take in what God has put in front of me. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Orange, blue and gray skies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-N-4rRhggZc0/Unu9bCWQg8I/AAAAAAAAAO0/Pn2CYoxbl98/s640/blogger-image-2066312500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-N-4rRhggZc0/Unu9bCWQg8I/AAAAAAAAAO0/Pn2CYoxbl98/s640/blogger-image-2066312500.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is an old pic but just an idea of my view. It's autumn so most of the leaves are gone. Maybe after my 5 minutes of meditation I'll take a pic.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-10286952489063020622013-09-19T10:01:00.001-07:002013-09-20T06:29:47.891-07:00My New Addiction and New (to me) Grocery StoreFor about a year I have been loving <a href="http://www.daiyafoods.com/" target="_blank">Daiya</a> shredded cheese. During my recent trip to Whole Foods I discovered their sliced cheese and pizza!<br>
I did buy the sliced cheese to have with my veggie burger.<br>
Two minutes before taking burger off the pan I added a slice of the Daiya cheese. <br>
It melted and it was awesome! <br>
I need to remember to take my phone into the kitchen more often to take pictures. <br>
The burger was delicious!<br>
<br>
I am a big fan of the library and more so with trying new vegan recipes with the cookbooks that I have found. Right now <a href="http://www.meettheshannons.com/betty/betty-goes-vegan/" target="_blank">Betty Goes Vegan</a> is my newest find. Beautifully written with a guide to vegan products, tips and tricks.<br>
One brand it mentioned I've never heard of. <br>
After googling it I find that there is a (new to me) vegan and organic grocery store a little over 2 miles away. I can't wait to check them out and add them as my go to store for vegan products. <br>
<br>
They have a way too easy guacamole recipe that I tried and my teen loves.<br>
<br>
Dan's Guacamole<br>
(serves 4-6)<br>
<br>
2 large ripe avocados<br>
2 tbsps lime juice<br>
1 minced garlic clove<br>
1 tbsp chopped cilantro<br>
1 tsp onion powder<br>
1 diced jalapeno (I omitted this ingredient and it was not missed)<br>
1 tsp hot sauce (I omitted this ingredient and it was not missed)<br>
crushed pink Himalayan salt and crushed black peppercorns (sea salt and pepper was just fine)<br>
<br>
mash your avos into a paste and mix in the rest of the ingredients.<br>
<br>
My teen loves to use this as a spread for her sandwiches!<br>
<br>
Enjoy!<br>
<br>
<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0Citrus Grove Glendale34.148773 -118.237016tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-64594831184458233472013-09-04T12:02:00.001-07:002013-09-04T12:02:13.390-07:00Vacation time is over...and we're back to school! <br />
It's official. <br />
All of my kids are out of the homeschooling years and into the public school years. It's been great thus far. Homeschooling have truly prepared them in their studies. They have learned to work independently and look for the resources to help them with various projects.<br />
<br />
We've had a wonderful summer driving cross country and visiting my mom in Florida. <br />
The kids reacquaint with a few cousins and hang out with Abuela. We visited all Disney parks and even brought home some mosquito bites! <br />
<br />
All in all, it has been the best vacation we ever had. <br />
<br />
My only complaint is that I had a hard time finding vegan products in the area.<br />
We had to take an almost 30 minute drive to the nearest Whole Foods to find tofu, nutritional yeast, and other vegan eats. <br />
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<br />
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*My writing is a bit more rough than usual. I guess I'm still in vacation mode. ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-16323548519204658372013-09-03T13:05:00.000-07:002013-09-03T13:05:23.725-07:00Back from vacation...and have some yummy recipes and tips to come!<br />
I am a work in progress.<br />
;-)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-10137390394238111002013-06-05T12:05:00.004-07:002013-06-05T12:05:55.572-07:00Vegan Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
All ingredients are vegan and can be found....</div>
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1 cup granulated sugar</div>
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1 cup powdered sugar</div>
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1 cup butter</div>
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1 cup cooking oil</div>
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1 1/2 tsp dry egg replacer plus 2 tbsp water</div>
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4 1/2 cups of all-purpose unbleached flour</div>
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1 tsp baking soda</div>
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1 tsp cream of tartar</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</div>
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Mix sugars, butter and oil until creamy.</div>
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Mix flour, baking soda and cream of tartar in another bowl.</div>
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Stir into the sugar mixture until completely blended. </div>
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Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes or until it hardens a bit.</div>
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Drop into a greased cookie sheet and flatten and bake for 12 minutes</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QB3PbkBxsOo/Ua-Jei5P3TI/AAAAAAAAAOc/c-3mZDcvOQM/s640/blogger-image-1106220295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QB3PbkBxsOo/Ua-Jei5P3TI/AAAAAAAAAOc/c-3mZDcvOQM/s400/blogger-image-1106220295.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-27797604871692501232013-06-05T11:39:00.001-07:002013-06-05T11:39:10.647-07:00Wednesdays....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6n13gY6H8-s/TzByszordsI/AAAAAAAAAF0/KIFzuiRSTy0/s1600/2012-02-06+16.24.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6n13gY6H8-s/TzByszordsI/AAAAAAAAAF0/KIFzuiRSTy0/s320/2012-02-06+16.24.25.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-69303954952311020232013-06-05T11:35:00.001-07:002013-06-05T11:35:16.328-07:00Last day of School/First Unofficial Day of Summer!After the stress of finals my teen done with school and started her summer vacation! My tween has another week but we're just tightening up some loose ends.<br />
<br />
Yesterday we had a nice pool party with my kids and 9 of their friends. It was so nice to finally put a voice to all the kids I have seen through my daughter's Facebook personal page throughout this school.<br />
<br />
Looking forward to so much more!<br />
<br />
I know this a super duper short post but I have been super busy. Soon enough I will have much more time dedicated to my own adventures.<br />
<br />
So far I created my Facebook blog page. It's pretty much a blank canvas but so much I have planned in writing and slowly will add more! Please like/follow me here and on Facebook. Thanks!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HotChicaCooksVegan" target="_blank">Hot Chica Cooks Vegan is on Facebook!</a><br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-6110208735174412052013-06-04T08:18:00.000-07:002013-06-04T08:18:07.187-07:00Last Day of School!!!No more pencils.<br />
No more books.<br />
No more teacher's dirty looks.<br />
<br />
Remember that rhyme?<br />
<br />
My teen is probably singing this song with her friends and soon my tween will do as she goes on to 8th grade at our local middle school next school year.<br />
<br />
Me? I'm looking forward to days in Disneyland, pool, road trips, beach days, sleeping in, movie marathons, visiting my Mami, family visits, and fun with friends. Maybe teach myself the art of crocheting and jewelry making. I would love to check out any easy hiking trails here in California and in Florida. <br />
<br />
It sounds like I want to do a lot but I want this summer to be one of the best and memorable summers. Life is short and I'm tired of holding back because the kids would rather be at a very close distance to our home Wi-Fi.<br />
<br />
Noon today is the beginning of our summer vacation, what will you be up to?<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-36701815841833424382013-05-30T10:50:00.001-07:002013-05-30T10:50:12.305-07:00My WriterMy teen has been writing since she was in Kindergarten. Writing about the seasons started it all. I feel extremely blessed for the years homeschooling and being able to see her grow to such a talented young lady AND I'm very happy to introduce her latest poem featured on Teen Ink...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://teenink.com/poetry/free_verse/article/550510/Our-Love/#.UZkWGO_IixM.facebook" target="_blank">Our Love</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-7757723474544584132013-05-21T11:00:00.000-07:002013-05-21T16:31:27.693-07:00Vegan DalFor the past month or so I have had to live without my laptop because of a wire issue but now it is back and running and I'm thrilled! <br>
I didn't realize how much I relied on the laptop. I could have used my desktop but I prefer to sit very comfortably on my sofa and not on a computer chair. <br>
<br>
We are getting ready for our summer vacation and I cannot wait to get out of the humdrum life of a housewife. <br>
A change of scenery is what I think I need. I'm so bored right now.<br>
I know food will be my biggest issue. Hitting the road will not be the same as going into my pantry or refrigerator and preparing non-dairy and mostly vegan meals. It's going to be my biggest challenge yet. I'm not a salad person and so far that is a lot of what I see when I check out the menus at different fast food venues. I love soup but most, if not all, soups are made with chicken stock. Vegetable stock is just as good if not better than the chicken stock used in restaurant soups. Going to a vegan restaurant is not an option either. It's a little bit intimidating for the other family members although all meals prepared at home are meatless.<br>
<br>
I guess I'll cross that bridge next month....<br>
<br>
Today what I have brewing in the slow cooker is one of my favorite meals. I love Indian food so much.<br>
This recipe is taken from the <a href="http://robinrobertson.com/veg-slow-cooker/" target="_blank">Fresh from the Vegetarian Slow Cooker</a>.<br>
<br>
What a Dal<br>
<br>
2 tbsps olive oil<br>
1 large yellow onion cut into pieces<br>
2 garlic cloves peeled<br>
1 tsp peeled and minced fresh ginger<br>
1 tsp ground coriander<br>
1 tsp ground cumin<br>
1 tsp turmeric<br>
1/2 tsp ground cardamom<br>
1/2 tsp dry mustard<br>
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper<br>
1/4 tsp ground allspice<br>
1 1/2 cups dried brown lentils, picked over and rinsed<br>
1 15 oz can kidney beans drained and rinsed<br>
3 cups water<br>
salt and pepper to taste<br>
<br>
I know it's a lot but stick with me. It's so worth it and brings out the yumminess of this dish.<br>
<br>
Pour the oil into a 4 qt slow cooker and set it on high.<br>
In a food processor, puree the onion, garlic, and ginger and add it to the cooker.<br>
Cover and cook for about 2 minutes while you get the rest of the ingredients together.<br>
Stir in the all the spices with the vegetables for about 30 seconds.<br>
Turn down the slow cooker from high to low and add the lentils, kidney beans, and water.<br>
Cover and cook for 8 hours.<br>
Before serving season with salt and pepper. For a smoother texture (like you would get in an Indian restaurant) puree up to 2 cups of the finished product in a blender or food processor and stir back into the pot. <br>
I'll be serving this over jasmine brown rice.<br>
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Enjoy!<br>
<br>
<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gyeXhZaTjks/UZwDwyZW0RI/AAAAAAAAAN8/1whiAN4Gf40/s640/blogger-image--1397239873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gyeXhZaTjks/UZwDwyZW0RI/AAAAAAAAAN8/1whiAN4Gf40/s640/blogger-image--1397239873.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sodXtWMpNTQ/UZwDzGKVvHI/AAAAAAAAAOE/-qRnpLz9QJw/s640/blogger-image--2111379244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sodXtWMpNTQ/UZwDzGKVvHI/AAAAAAAAAOE/-qRnpLz9QJw/s640/blogger-image--2111379244.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-81492945040787120442013-04-12T09:32:00.000-07:002013-04-12T09:32:48.465-07:00Cleaning and Saving Money<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Lately I've been cutting back and trying to use more natural products. Just when something we regularly use is almost done I scour the internet to read the latest on do it yourself and homemade remedies. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Last month I made deodorant for my tween by filling up the empty deodorant stick container. After spending about 30 minutes looking through all the ways you can do it, I used this:</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">1/3 cup coconut oil</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">1/4 cup baking soda</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">1/4 cup arrowroot powder</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">4 tablespoons cornstarch</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">essential oils </span></span><div>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 25px;">Essential oils is optional but to please my teen I used her favorite scent, rose.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">Mix baking soda, cornstarch, and arrowroot powder in a bowl.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">Add coconut oil and use a fork or pastry cutter to blend into the dry ingredients.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;">Add 5-10 drops of your chosen essential oil (I used tea tree oil).</span><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">It was enough to fill up her deodorant container and lots left over. The rest I let it rest on wax paper inside a glass container (like the kind you use to pour your pudding). </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">My husband tried it and liked it very much.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Today I ran out of Ajax so I used this:</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">1 tbsp baking soda </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">1 tbsp borax</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">1 tbsp kosher salt </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">Mix it up and shake it onto the counter. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">If you want something with a scent a really great idea is to boil some water and throw in some citrus peels. I great idea I like to do is when the kids peel their citrus fruits I put it in a ziplock bag and throw in the freezer until I am ready to use. Also another idea is to put some grow some herbs and other plants on your windowsill. I had a tomato plant in the kitchen and just watering it made my kitchen smell so fresh.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">If you liked this blog entry share it on Google+, Facebook or Twitter or any of the other options. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">You can also subscribe to this blog.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Tahoma, Calibri, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">Pass it on!</span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-29866064782371784382013-03-21T10:34:00.001-07:002013-03-21T10:34:11.064-07:00Sitting and thinking...<span style="font-size: large;">What I'm going to do today. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Mentally, I'm at the Grand California Hotel in the Disneyland Resort in front of the fireplace that almost covers an entire wall with a good book.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hk3RXu5PdQ/UUtAb87F_WI/AAAAAAAAANA/5ikJI8z3Fl8/s1600/S6300995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hk3RXu5PdQ/UUtAb87F_WI/AAAAAAAAANA/5ikJI8z3Fl8/s320/S6300995.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think that is a surefire sign that I'm in need of a break. A break from everyday life and must-dos. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6l7HTLQaCQ/UUtDl-TgkWI/AAAAAAAAANQ/1Dqgrp45slM/s1600/IMG_0194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6l7HTLQaCQ/UUtDl-TgkWI/AAAAAAAAANQ/1Dqgrp45slM/s320/IMG_0194.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Time for me to stop daydreaming and get it together. So much to do. Thank God Spring Break for my other half begins Monday. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bj6Bz71uiDs/UUtDmvrtRjI/AAAAAAAAANY/F1XUC2oRl8U/s1600/IMG_0195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bj6Bz71uiDs/UUtDmvrtRjI/AAAAAAAAANY/F1XUC2oRl8U/s320/IMG_0195.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But for now let me get reminisce.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6MVWeYPDsA/UUtBUb2PWrI/AAAAAAAAANI/9YesOIqHTmA/s1600/IMG_2136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6MVWeYPDsA/UUtBUb2PWrI/AAAAAAAAANI/9YesOIqHTmA/s320/IMG_2136.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-53793270840865068262013-03-16T14:09:00.003-07:002013-03-16T14:09:49.036-07:00Not Really Challenging At All<span style="font-size: large;">Today is the 16th day of my March challenge where I've been eating vegetable for EVERY meal. </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been feeling pretty good. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My weight has gone down a teeny tiny bit.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It wasn't as hard as I thought. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Breakfast was either tofu scramble with mushrooms, spinach, green onions, whatever bell peppers I had on hand or oatmeal with vegetables and fruit thrown together into the juicer.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lunch and dinner I've put together veggies stir fried with leftover tofu scramble. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I feel great and I don't find it as a challenge anymore. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">No recipes to blog today...</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-28713865433538104742013-03-03T08:59:00.001-08:002013-03-03T08:59:42.090-08:00My 2nd March Challenge Day…Was great! We went hiking on a trail in Altadena behind the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. It was a bit difficult going uphill and try to give bike riders room to go up and down a narrow trail but I'm so glad we did. My tween did not complain and I think she enjoyed it! <br />
Again I did not do so well with my water intake but eating vegetables with every meal was a success. Spinach and roasted bell peppers in my sandwich for lunch and artichokes in my pasta for lunch. I didn't eat breakfast. <br />
<br />
I know bad girl...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-54946244031280801252013-03-01T09:33:00.001-08:002013-03-01T09:33:33.673-08:00My March ChallengeThis month I will be incorporating more veggies in all my meals and drinking more water. <br />
So far I'm starting off to a great start. Simple breakfast of tofu scramble and assortment of vegetables from last night's dinner. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iGFz_fLxCKI/UTDma1UyY0I/AAAAAAAAAMw/zuvTWrzfdVw/s640/blogger-image-1721899834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-iGFz_fLxCKI/UTDma1UyY0I/AAAAAAAAAMw/zuvTWrzfdVw/s640/blogger-image-1721899834.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-45850263344862236692013-02-28T22:10:00.000-08:002013-02-28T10:15:30.734-08:00DIY Dishwasher DetergentI have been playing with the idea of making my own dishwashing detergent. As prices get higher and money getting tighter I decided to do my research and figure out how to make my own using ingredients that are easy to find in my local supermarket. <br />
Recently, I have become a huge fan of the <a href="http://livewellnetwork.com/" target="_blank">Live Well Network</a> but more specifically the show <a href="http://livewellnetwork.com/Deals/8194764" target="_blank">Deals</a>. The host just happened to be discussing with the <a href="http://couponcontessa.com/" target="_blank">Coupon Contessa</a> <a href="http://livewellnetwork.com/Deals/episodes/Do-It-Yourself-Cleaners/8321575" target="_blank">how to make your own cleaners using 5 ingredients</a>.<br />
ONLY 5?!?!?!<br />
Everything from laundry detergent to cleaning your counters. <br />
This week I was specifically looking for DIY dishwasher detergent. I was down to my last four tablets and decided to hit <a href="http://www.smartandfinal.com/Homepage.aspx" target="_blank">Smart and Final</a>. I found everything I needed except the washing soda. Washing soda is apparently the most sought after product that is difficult to find. I called <a href="http://www.ralphs.com/" target="_blank">Ralphs</a> Supermarket and hoped I can just pick up a box on the way home from the gym. The "manager" didn't know what I was talking about and after giving him the UPC number from the <a href="http://www.armandhammer.com/" target="_blank">Arm and Hammer</a> website, he said it was invalid and was a bit rude when he hung up. I decided to go myself because how can they not have it, right? After calling Arm and Hammer, turns out they did indeed have it. <br />
Being a little pissed off for being treated with rudeness, I went to the store and found it as soon as I walked into the laundry aisle I found it right away next to the borax. I did bring it to the attention of another manager and let her know the situation. <br />
Last night I did stop in to <a href="http://www.costco.com/" target="_blank">Costco</a> and although they had a larger container of baking soda but they did not have Borax, washing soda or bar a of laundry soap.<br />
Last night I used the last tab of dishwasher detergent. I am reusing the plastic container it came in and mixed 3 cups each of borax and baking soda. Since I run the dishwasher about twice a day, it should last me a month. <br />
YAY ME!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-28521443419579299242013-02-28T10:23:00.002-08:002013-02-28T10:24:18.301-08:00Baked Potatoes Slow CookerBaked Potatoes<br />
<br />
4 baking potatoes<br />
<br />
wash your unpeeled potatoes<br />
DO NOT DRY<br />
prick the potatoes with a fork and wrap individually in aluminum foil.<br />
place the potatoes in a 4-6 quart slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.<br />
<br />
Easy right?!?!?<br />
<br />
Eat them how ever you want. I just diced some onions, tomatoes, a little bit of lemon juice, as much cilantro as you want, salt and pepper.<br />
<br />
Before serving, steam some veggies to tie it all together.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-46364213412416684842013-02-20T10:59:00.000-08:002013-02-20T10:59:10.537-08:00Pending Next Chapter<span style="font-size: large;">My youngest has announced she will be joining the masses and going to the local middle school for 8th grade next August. I am sad. My youngest has never attended a brick and mortar school. She has learned her ABCs and 123s at home since she was in diapers. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Learned to read in the library with Dr. Seuss. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Watched PBS with its endless educational programming.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Borrowed videos from the library and learned about Ancient Egypt and the science of roller coasters.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have so many good memories and I'm sure we will make more good memories in the next chapter of her life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This recipe will go great in a 4 quart size slow cooker. Cooking time is 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. It's very short and is great to prepare and have ready while watching a movie at home or out shopping. This recipe serves 4-6 and is great with steamed rice and cornbread.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Slow Cooker Ratatouille</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(adapted from the Fresh from the Vegetarian Slow Cooker by Robin Robertson)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">2 tbsps olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 eggplant, cut into 1/2 inch dice</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 diced yellow onion</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 seeded and cut into 1/2 inch diced red bell pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 minced garlic cloves</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 zucchinis cut into 1/2 inch thick rounds (or go ahead and cut it and half and cut into half moon rounds)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 28 oz can diced tomatoes with their juice </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp dried thyme</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">salt and pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3 tbsps pesto</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add the eggplant and cook, stirring often, until softened for about 5 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Using a slotted spoon, transfer the eggplant into the slow cooker.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add the remaining oil to the same skillet over medium heat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add the onion, cover and cook until softened for about 5 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add the onion to the slow cooker along with the bell pepper, garlic, zucchini, tomatoes, and thyme. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Season with salt and pepper.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cover and cook.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just before serving, stir in the pesto......</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Homemade vegan pesto</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 large peeled garlic cloves</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup pine nutes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 cups fresh basil leaves</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp salt and pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Combine the garlic and pine nuts in a food processor or blender and pulse until coarsely chopped.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add the basil, salt, and pepper to taste and process until ground into a paste.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">With the machine running, if you can, add the olive oil until well blended.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I added the whole batch in the slow cooker because I just love the stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-81961047447227092712013-02-13T20:04:00.001-08:002013-02-13T20:04:06.150-08:00My Own Grieving ProcessMy father passed away December 16, 2012. It was all very sudden. My father suffered a stroke over 15 years ago and with therapy and a host of medication, he was almost himself. The only way you knew something was wrong was in the way he walked His right side was paralyzed but with therapy he was able to walk with a cane and occasionally cooked and always cleaned. <br />
I was on the next plane back to east to be by my mother's side. I stayed by mother's side until I flew back west. <br />
That's when I began to grieve.<br />
Last week I painted my nails. <br />
Today I unlocked my hair. <br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-1558515985305311882012-12-06T02:00:00.000-08:002012-12-04T11:17:44.326-08:00cleaning out the pantryis my goal for the rest of this year. January 1 I am going vegan which means nothing will be from an animal. No more fish, meat (been doing that for a couple of years), dairy (also doing that for a few years), eggs, etc. So emptying out my pantry of everything to start anew. Most of what I had there was vegan anyway except for a few things. The day before yesterday I found a tin of sardines and tunafish. I mixed it together and added other ingredients to make a tuna fish salad. I did add cinnamon and crushed pineapple for more of a tropical tuna. It is very delish on whole wheat tandoori naan. <br />
<div>
Today I am making Enchilada Soup w/ avocado.</div>
<div>
You need 1 tbsp of olive oil, 6 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tbsp cilantro (chopped) 8 corn tortillas, 2 lbs of seitan, 1 15 oz can of pureed tomatoes, 2 onions (finely chopped), 6 cups of vegetable broth , 2 cups of water, 1 6oz can of tomato paste, 1tbsp ground cumin, 2 tsp chili powder, 2 bay leaves, ground red pepper to taste, 3/4 cup cheddar Daiya cheese and 1 avocado (peeled, pitted, diced)</div>
<div>
I know it looks like alot of ingredients and work but it will be so worth it. It is yummilicious.</div>
<div>
warm olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. add garlic and cilantro and saute that for 3 minutes. keep a close eye cause those suckers burn quickly and it will be very bitter. tear up 4 of the tortillas into 1 inch squares and add to the pot. saute that until it is nice and soft for about 5 minutes. try not to burn. while the tortillas are cooking slice the chicken or tofu into bite-size pieces. add the chicken, pureed tomatoes, onions, broth, water, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder and bay leaves. let it boil over high heat. once it starts boiling reduce heat to low and add the ground red pepper and let it simmer for 30 minutes stirring from time to time. </div>
<div>
now go get a nice glass of wine because we are half way done. </div>
<div>
preheat your oven to 400 degrees. using your special kitchen scissors or really good pizza slicer (am sure that there is a proper name but that is what I call it) cut the remaining tortillas into 1/4 inch wide strips and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. bake until they are LIGHTLY browned, about 7 minutes. let them cool away from the oven so they will be nice and crispy. after the soup has simmered for 30 minutes remove the bay leaves. sometimes I can't find them which is fine. just don't forget to warn everyone that the bay leaves aren't really edible and they should dispose of them nicely on a napkin and not the nice tablecloth you just bought. </div>
<div>
oh wait I just spaced out there. </div>
<div>
ladle a portion of the soup into a bowl and top with the shredded cheese, diced avocado and tortilla strips and enjoy! </div>
<div>
This recipe serves 8 adults. Go ahead and pack the extras for lunch or freeze it for those days you just don't have the time to cook a full meal. </div>
<div>
This recipe was taken from a cookbook called Eating for Life by Bill Phillips. I did tweak it. My husband bought this a couple of years back when he wanted a change in his life. It was more like here 'make me some'. He didn't like most of the food because it was 'too healthy'. I thought it was really great recipes and I just adapted most of them to be dairy-free. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-38432192488392065592012-12-04T09:43:00.002-08:002012-12-04T09:43:46.678-08:00My Aha MomentThis morning, like most mornings in the last month, I did not want to get out of bed. I started to ask myself what was wrong with me. I usually get out of bed start a load of laundry or go straight to the kitchen to start my coffee. <div>
I only wanted to stay in bed and read a book or read the latest in <a href="https://twitter.com/mamimaria" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or Facebook. </div>
<div>
Then it hit me. </div>
<div>
It's December 4. Close to our school break. Close to the end of the year. </div>
<div>
I am burned out! </div>
<div>
It's the same feeling when Spring break comes around. Counting the weeks and days until Summer break when I can just sit by the pool and read a book or play in the pool with my kids. </div>
<div>
Except this time I wanted to snuggle with my blankie and a good book. </div>
<div>
So starting tomorrow, I'm going to make myself get out of bed at 7am and start the laundry and make my coffee. Get my blood pumping and plan out the rest of the day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I had some leftover <a href="http://www.daiyafoods.com/" target="_blank">Daiya</a> cheese from our Thanksgiving feast. I knew I needed to use it before it spoils. Realized I haven't made this delicious dish in a while....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Pasta Pizza</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1 lb pasta (any shape)</div>
<div>
pizza sauce (I used Ragu but whatever you have at hand is good. Any red/marinara sauce will do)</div>
<div>
8oz or more of any non-dairy cheese you might have at hand</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Cook pasta according to directions</div>
<div>
While the pasta is being drained heat up the pizza sauce until it bubbles</div>
<div>
Add the pasta back into the pot with the sauce and add the cheese</div>
<div>
Heat and cover until the cheese gets nice and melty.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You can add whatever veggies you have, TVP, or any other vegan protein you might have.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Enjoy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-90739549400879404442012-11-19T08:50:00.001-08:002012-11-19T08:50:19.213-08:00Another Sick DayToday is my first vacation day but it's not the way I would have wanted it. Since Friday I have had strep throat. Saturday I started sneezing. Sunday morning I had sinus pain. <br />
This is not how I wanted to spend my staycation. <br />
I had visions of me going to Y and exercising and taking advantage of the steam room and detoxing and praying. <br />
Visions of me sitting at a local coffee shop and knitting and maybe walking around the mall doing some window shopping for inspiration before I head to the thrift store. <br />
Unless there is some kind of turnaround, I'll be home knitting with some hot beverage nearby watching whatever craptv has going. <br />
The positive thing since being sick is that I finished one book and started another. I also watched a few movies at home since I canceled our weekly trip to Girl Scouts and acting class. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7205268267021382106.post-65542930149323689832012-11-12T09:15:00.002-08:002012-11-12T09:15:24.198-08:00Because Seriously, Sometimes You Have To Be Like, WTF?!?!I wasn't going to write today.<br />
Feeling really distracted by an event last night.<br />
Last night I took my daughters to a pink carpet event we were invited to. A few faces stood out besides the owner. Several were kids/moms we have come across in this year we have been auditioning and filming. <br />
But one gave me a sour taste.<br />
She is a mom who I believe thinks she is a competition. I guess it is if you have that mindset. She gives me dirty looks when we walk into the audition waiting room. I always greet her with a smile and say hi to her and her kid (and her husband if he's there). They usually just like at me like I'm an alien. Blank stares like they have no sense. My kids were dancers in one particular project where we first had contact with them. The kid kept grabbing my kid's iPod Touch. At one point I had to take it because this kid did not understand the word no and they adults did nothing! What kind of shit is that? How are you going to witness your kid grabbing other people's property and not say anything? Oh wait, one of the adults did. She said, "oh she always does that". My response was that maybe she should buy her one to keep her entertained. I was a bit irritable at that point but what the fuck?<br />
The last time we were in contact with this family, one of my kids played her sister. She was a bit snippy with me but I just ignored her. One other mom there didn't like her much since the kid kept grabbing her iPad and did not understand no. At one point the director had a good talking to the adult (I'm not sure if she was the mom or the grandmom since she looked old and decrepit). While the camera was rolling, the kid decided to go on a rant about "how fucking tired and stupid this film was". <br />
.....<br />
<br />
I started writing this Sunday morning. Still reeling on what happened the night before.<br />
We went on a Disneyland staycation and I certainly feel more calm and zen-like.<br />
<br />
So now, I am just waiting on my coffee and so I can get into my zone.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15399378733048955494noreply@blogger.com0