Looking up at the tree outside our back door. LOVE Spring and cherry blossoms!
Monday, March 25, 2013
March 24th
Up: Take a photo of what you see when you look up, or another interpretation!
Looking up at the tree outside our back door. LOVE Spring and cherry blossoms!
Looking up at the tree outside our back door. LOVE Spring and cherry blossoms!
March 23rd
What you do for fun: Do you dance? Read? Play? Tell us in a photo.
I have really fallen in love with cooking and baking. I like that I am learning to make better and healthier versions of things. We made some divine granola. Well, I actually had to make two batches. It is supposed to be for breakfast cereal, but the first batch never lasted long enough. So we made more, and Becca got to add her own goodies. She was so excited and loved it more than any sugary cereal I have ever bought. That made me so happy, and the kids had fun!
I have really fallen in love with cooking and baking. I like that I am learning to make better and healthier versions of things. We made some divine granola. Well, I actually had to make two batches. It is supposed to be for breakfast cereal, but the first batch never lasted long enough. So we made more, and Becca got to add her own goodies. She was so excited and loved it more than any sugary cereal I have ever bought. That made me so happy, and the kids had fun!
And this! The girls dancing on the beach, while me and the hubby watch and relax. This is a good time to me!
March 22nd
About you: Share something we don’t know about you. Share a photo and a few sentences.
I thought maybe I would share a picture of me as a kid, since I have never done that here. This is my brother and me dressed up for Halloween (obviously). I was probably about 6. And in case you can not tell, I am Princess Leia. I was just a little "geekling". Awwwww........
I thought maybe I would share a picture of me as a kid, since I have never done that here. This is my brother and me dressed up for Halloween (obviously). I was probably about 6. And in case you can not tell, I am Princess Leia. I was just a little "geekling". Awwwww........
Saturday, March 23, 2013
March 21st
Working: This could be you working {or at school} or could be something working {functioning as it should}.
Here is the work that goes on in our home. Even some of the studying looks like this! I love watching my hubby prep and cook a meal for us. I help where I can, but he does most of the chopping. The knives he has are so sharp, you could cut yourself looking at them. I don't touch them. So this is my husband hard at work.
Here is the work that goes on in our home. Even some of the studying looks like this! I love watching my hubby prep and cook a meal for us. I help where I can, but he does most of the chopping. The knives he has are so sharp, you could cut yourself looking at them. I don't touch them. So this is my husband hard at work.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
March 20th
Clean: What does clean mean to you? The way a person looks? The state of your home? An empty bowl?
Well, the only thing that comes to mind is a clean plate or bowl. And here is one I happened to snap a few days ago! This soup was yummy!
Well, the only thing that comes to mind is a clean plate or bowl. And here is one I happened to snap a few days ago! This soup was yummy!
March 19th
A sign: We pass by them everyday: street signs, shop signs, signs in our homes – what’s the most interesting one you come across today?
This is the sign we had above the door leading to our pool at our house in Nevada. It makes me chuckle every time I see it. No pool here, so it is above our bathroom door for now. I am sure it will be by a pool again.
And just because one picture is boring, I will post the signs on my kids' doors. I let them decorate their door however they want. I love their doors!
Here is My 13 year old's door. The white paper on the left is a "hand fan" Rebecca made from tissue paper.
And this is my 4 year old's door. This is just totally her. The drawing is her doctor sign for when she is accepting patients.
This is the sign we had above the door leading to our pool at our house in Nevada. It makes me chuckle every time I see it. No pool here, so it is above our bathroom door for now. I am sure it will be by a pool again.
And just because one picture is boring, I will post the signs on my kids' doors. I let them decorate their door however they want. I love their doors!
Here is My 13 year old's door. The white paper on the left is a "hand fan" Rebecca made from tissue paper.
And this is my 4 year old's door. This is just totally her. The drawing is her doctor sign for when she is accepting patients.
March 18th
Shoes: Take a photo of yours or somebody’s else.
I was feeling crafty. I took my shabby, comfy, needing-to-be-replaced pair of shoes and added an embellishment. Now they are the coolest shoes ever. I just need to buy my red Converse and blue ones to complete my collection.......
I was feeling crafty. I took my shabby, comfy, needing-to-be-replaced pair of shoes and added an embellishment. Now they are the coolest shoes ever. I just need to buy my red Converse and blue ones to complete my collection.......
FANTASTIC!!!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
March 17th
Green: It’s St Patrick’s Day – find something green.
Shamrock breakfast, goofy straw glasses and green milk, awesome decorations, and Reuben egg rolls. Yes, Reuben (corned beef, Swiss and sauerkraut) wrapped and fried in an egg roll wrapper. Dip in thousand Island dressing. So awesomely good, and a cool twist on a classic. Hope you all had a day filled with luck and love!
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Shamrock breakfast, goofy straw glasses and green milk, awesome decorations, and Reuben egg rolls. Yes, Reuben (corned beef, Swiss and sauerkraut) wrapped and fried in an egg roll wrapper. Dip in thousand Island dressing. So awesomely good, and a cool twist on a classic. Hope you all had a day filled with luck and love!
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March 16th
9 o’clock: What are you doing at 9am or 9pm today. Share it with us.
Well, of course I decided to do both a.m. and p.m. Are you surprised? Today my husband let me sleep in, though I asked him to make sure I was up by 9. Dedication. Haha But it took me a couple of minutes to reach for my camera and snap this. So this is where I was at 9(:02) a.m. today. This is the view of my clock from my husbands side of the bed. When he gets up, I love laying on his pillows.
And tonight, like every night since she was about 6 months old, I read to Rebecca. I admit that some nights I am tired and wish I could skip this. But when I start reading to her, I am so glad I did. It always turns out to be one of my favorite parts of the day. Tonight, we read from her Mickey Mouse book, which has a few short stories. And you also get a little glimpse into what my husband calls 'Becca Land'. This room is all girl, and all Becca. We love laying in there with her, seeing the way she sees things.
Well, of course I decided to do both a.m. and p.m. Are you surprised? Today my husband let me sleep in, though I asked him to make sure I was up by 9. Dedication. Haha But it took me a couple of minutes to reach for my camera and snap this. So this is where I was at 9(:02) a.m. today. This is the view of my clock from my husbands side of the bed. When he gets up, I love laying on his pillows.
And tonight, like every night since she was about 6 months old, I read to Rebecca. I admit that some nights I am tired and wish I could skip this. But when I start reading to her, I am so glad I did. It always turns out to be one of my favorite parts of the day. Tonight, we read from her Mickey Mouse book, which has a few short stories. And you also get a little glimpse into what my husband calls 'Becca Land'. This room is all girl, and all Becca. We love laying in there with her, seeing the way she sees things.
March 15th
Explore: Take a walk and explore where you are today.
We haven't been out anywhere special in a few days. The rain is back for a bit, plus Allen has been working on and studying for his finals. *sigh* Well, it may be sunny tomorrow, so here's hoping! So I am going to post a picture of the last time Becca and I went exploring. Maybe a week ago? Anyways, we explored the park for signs of Spring arriving.
We haven't been out anywhere special in a few days. The rain is back for a bit, plus Allen has been working on and studying for his finals. *sigh* Well, it may be sunny tomorrow, so here's hoping! So I am going to post a picture of the last time Becca and I went exploring. Maybe a week ago? Anyways, we explored the park for signs of Spring arriving.
Friday, March 15, 2013
March 14th/Roasted Bell Pepper Soup
Tasty: This is the perfect excuse to eat something particularly delicious today, right?
I was so going to make some hot chocolate for the girls this evening, but did not read the recipe ahead and found I did not have the chocolate chips it calls for. So, I will get some tomorrow, and the girls and I will snuggle up with some tomorrow night on our second adventure with the Doctor.
To get this divine recipe, go HERE
Instead, I will share our newest addition to our soup collection. Roasted Bell Pepper Soup.
It was soooo yummy! And this is absolutely marvelous for you! NO gluten! NO butter or cream! And if you make it with vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, it can be vegan! Seriously, you can grow and make all of the ingredients (except for the little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper).
Anyways, here is the recipe for Roasted Bell Pepper Soup
Just because I can not help my self, here are some pictures of the peppers and tomatoes before/after roasting:
We made yummy pesto mozzarella grilled cheese with it. A nice vegetarian meal. I will make this with all home grown and homemade ingredients one day. Including the mozzarella and sourdough! I can not wait!
I was so going to make some hot chocolate for the girls this evening, but did not read the recipe ahead and found I did not have the chocolate chips it calls for. So, I will get some tomorrow, and the girls and I will snuggle up with some tomorrow night on our second adventure with the Doctor.
To get this divine recipe, go HERE
Instead, I will share our newest addition to our soup collection. Roasted Bell Pepper Soup.
It was soooo yummy! And this is absolutely marvelous for you! NO gluten! NO butter or cream! And if you make it with vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, it can be vegan! Seriously, you can grow and make all of the ingredients (except for the little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper).
Anyways, here is the recipe for Roasted Bell Pepper Soup
Just because I can not help my self, here are some pictures of the peppers and tomatoes before/after roasting:
BEFORE:
AFTER:
(YUMM!!)
Roasted Bell Pepper Soup (serves about 3)
- 5-6 large bell peppers, red, orange, or yellow (I used 2 of each)
- 4-5 medium-large tomatoes, cut in half (leave all the guts inside)
- 4 large garlic cloves, still in their skins
- 3 large shallots, peeled and cut in half
- olive oil
- 2 1/2-3 cups good chicken or vegetable stock
- salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
- Heat your oven to 425 F (or I bet it would ROCK on the grill!). Put all the vegetables into a large roasting pan (I used 2 so nothing overlapped). Pour several generous splashes of olive oil over them, and toss them to coat.
- Turn all the peppers and tomatoes so that their cut sides are down. Stick the pan in the oven and roast for 50-60 minutes, until the pepper and tomato skins are blistered and charred and the garlic and shallots are soft.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool until the vegetables are cool enough to handle gently. Then, use your fingers to remove the skins from the peppers and tomatoes. Cut the very ends off of the garlic cloves and squeeze the roasted garlic out. Put all the vegetables – peppers, tomatoes, shallots, and garlic – into a soup pot. Add the stock and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down and simmer for about 15 minutes (uncovered).
- Now, working in batches, puree the soup in a blender (be careful! Use hotpads! Don’t overfill the blender because you don’t want tidal waves of hot soup spewing forth!). Pour it through a strainer into a large bowl or another pot. Then, return all the soup to the pot, and reheat gently if needed. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve! Accompany with a hearty bread and some good cheese. Or grilled cheese. Or maybe some good sausage. Or you can garnish the soup with feta, sauteed corn kernels, and some cilantro oil, and pesto. It will be tasty no matter which way you try it.
We made yummy pesto mozzarella grilled cheese with it. A nice vegetarian meal. I will make this with all home grown and homemade ingredients one day. Including the mozzarella and sourdough! I can not wait!
Cheesy goodness!!!
Cleaned my bowl!
March 13th
Sound: Sound is a hard one to shoot, can you do it? What’s something you heard today?
I got to hear TWO glorious sounds today. Well, the first is more like a sound I didn't hear.....a tantrum! It has been two full days with no fits, and I am a happy mama! Okay anyways, onto the challenge!
I got to hear one of the greatest sounds (well, to me anyway). Just one glimpse of this blue box, and you will know the sound I mean. If you do not, then I am sorry for sounding a bit crazy.
Oh how I have missed that sound! I introduced my girls to the Doctor today. Fantastic! My 13 year old is hooked. My 4 year old was interested about half the time, but was so adorable when she cheered at him saving the day. My husband just looked at us and laughed. It was so great re-watching this with my girls. I hope they will hear this sound and have fond memories, as I already do.
I got to hear TWO glorious sounds today. Well, the first is more like a sound I didn't hear.....a tantrum! It has been two full days with no fits, and I am a happy mama! Okay anyways, onto the challenge!
I got to hear one of the greatest sounds (well, to me anyway). Just one glimpse of this blue box, and you will know the sound I mean. If you do not, then I am sorry for sounding a bit crazy.
Oh how I have missed that sound! I introduced my girls to the Doctor today. Fantastic! My 13 year old is hooked. My 4 year old was interested about half the time, but was so adorable when she cheered at him saving the day. My husband just looked at us and laughed. It was so great re-watching this with my girls. I hope they will hear this sound and have fond memories, as I already do.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
March 12th
In the distance: What is that thing that you see far away? A bird? A plane? A small child running away? Capture it as best you can.
Going to pull one from the archives here. I can still not figure out what this was. Snapped it off in the distance from the beach. It was traveling from the left to the right. Maybe it was a sea monster.
Going to pull one from the archives here. I can still not figure out what this was. Snapped it off in the distance from the beach. It was traveling from the left to the right. Maybe it was a sea monster.
March 11th
Important: Take a photo of something important in your day today.
It was a rough day to be a 4 year old today. I am emotionally exhausted and hopeful for a better day tomorrow. However, we did manage to get a little Spring in today. I wanted to teach Rebecca about plants. We put some flowers in pots, as well as planted seeds. Not much space in our apartment for gardening, but we can get a little in. Isn't she doing a good job? She is very excited to see the seeds grow, but I am afraid she is expecting them to grow overnight.
So this is important to me today. Teaching my daughter about how plants grow, starting on our path to growing our own food when we move. I am so glad she is excited about this. And it is important because it was a brief moment she was happy today. I hope there is more of this tomorrow.
It was a rough day to be a 4 year old today. I am emotionally exhausted and hopeful for a better day tomorrow. However, we did manage to get a little Spring in today. I wanted to teach Rebecca about plants. We put some flowers in pots, as well as planted seeds. Not much space in our apartment for gardening, but we can get a little in. Isn't she doing a good job? She is very excited to see the seeds grow, but I am afraid she is expecting them to grow overnight.
So this is important to me today. Teaching my daughter about how plants grow, starting on our path to growing our own food when we move. I am so glad she is excited about this. And it is important because it was a brief moment she was happy today. I hope there is more of this tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
March 10th
I want…: What do you want in your life? Shoot it.
Well, I did not take this picture. Didn't really know where to find this just sitting around. Anyways, I can not wait to have this (or something similar, I am flexible!). I want to grow so many yummy things for my family. The goal is to make a meal all from ingredients we grow ourselves. I know this will happen soon. I am just getting impatient.
I got the picture from HERE Isn't it beautiful?
Well, I did not take this picture. Didn't really know where to find this just sitting around. Anyways, I can not wait to have this (or something similar, I am flexible!). I want to grow so many yummy things for my family. The goal is to make a meal all from ingredients we grow ourselves. I know this will happen soon. I am just getting impatient.
I got the picture from HERE Isn't it beautiful?
March 9th
Faceless self-portrait: Can you take a self-portrait without your face in it? Perhaps it’s your hands, your feet or some other part of you?
This is a great one! This is me and my baby girl sitting on the beach, her feet on mine. So simply wonderful.
This is a great one! This is me and my baby girl sitting on the beach, her feet on mine. So simply wonderful.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
March 8th
Favorite: Take a photo of something that is your favorite: food, person, place, thing, book.....
Well, this one is easy! So, I am going to post a picture for each thing listed, because that is what I do. I am an over-achiever. Or I just like sharing my pictures. Yeah, that's probably it.
My favorite food......
Sushi. Mmmmmmmmmmmmm. Definitely in the Top 5! This is especially awesome sushi because my hubby made it at school. And I ate it with the rad-est chopsticks. Ever.
My favorite person (people).......
My loves! This is what makes it all worth it. I adore these faces!
My favorite place.......
Yup. You guessed it. Disneyland! Or as we call it in this house; 'The Mouse'. The reason this is my favorite (besides the fact that it is awesome!), is that I have SO many amazing memories there; from when I was a kid, to taking my kids. And it is a place that makes EVERY member of the family happy. How can you go wrong?
My favorite thing.......
Now, that is hard. I have so many favorite things. I will choose one (of many), and this is very dear to my heart. My girls made me this apron for Christmas. They secretly worked on it for 3 days. They both did such a wonderful job. The greatest thing in the world is to be loved, especially by your kids. Definitely one of my most prized possessions!
My favorite book(s)........
I love books, and reading. I definitely do not read as much as I would like. My "Need To Read" list is getting longer and longer. Anyways, these are my favorite books right now. For two reasons, actually.
First, what a wonderful collection of books! I was seriously thrilled to get these 2 boxes full of books in the mail! They are going to be so helpful in homeschooling my 4 year old. I now have a place to start, and then some. I can not wait to get going!
The second reason these are my favorite books is because they were a gift from a dear friend of mine. I can not imagine a better gift: tools to help educate my child! She used them with her kids, knows I am about ready to dive into homeschooling with my daughter, and sent these to me. No question, just handed them down to me. How awesome is that?!? How lucky I am to have a friend like her. I will have to think of a way to repay her kindness!
Well, this one is easy! So, I am going to post a picture for each thing listed, because that is what I do. I am an over-achiever. Or I just like sharing my pictures. Yeah, that's probably it.
My favorite food......
Sushi. Mmmmmmmmmmmmm. Definitely in the Top 5! This is especially awesome sushi because my hubby made it at school. And I ate it with the rad-est chopsticks. Ever.
My favorite person (people).......
My loves! This is what makes it all worth it. I adore these faces!
My favorite place.......
Yup. You guessed it. Disneyland! Or as we call it in this house; 'The Mouse'. The reason this is my favorite (besides the fact that it is awesome!), is that I have SO many amazing memories there; from when I was a kid, to taking my kids. And it is a place that makes EVERY member of the family happy. How can you go wrong?
My favorite thing.......
Now, that is hard. I have so many favorite things. I will choose one (of many), and this is very dear to my heart. My girls made me this apron for Christmas. They secretly worked on it for 3 days. They both did such a wonderful job. The greatest thing in the world is to be loved, especially by your kids. Definitely one of my most prized possessions!
My favorite book(s)........
I love books, and reading. I definitely do not read as much as I would like. My "Need To Read" list is getting longer and longer. Anyways, these are my favorite books right now. For two reasons, actually.
First, what a wonderful collection of books! I was seriously thrilled to get these 2 boxes full of books in the mail! They are going to be so helpful in homeschooling my 4 year old. I now have a place to start, and then some. I can not wait to get going!
The second reason these are my favorite books is because they were a gift from a dear friend of mine. I can not imagine a better gift: tools to help educate my child! She used them with her kids, knows I am about ready to dive into homeschooling with my daughter, and sent these to me. No question, just handed them down to me. How awesome is that?!? How lucky I am to have a friend like her. I will have to think of a way to repay her kindness!
Friday, March 8, 2013
March 7th
Fear: What are you afraid of?
Fear. Well, that isn't very fun, is it? I am definitely not one of those girls that like scary movies. Death and gore really freak me out and scare the hell out of me. Why would I enjoy watching it? Now, if you like scary movies, good for you! In fact, my little sister and step-daughter are huge scary movie fans. I just do not care for them.
So, the scariest thing I have watched recently involve angel statues. And blinking. If i have confused you, I am sorry, and I will not bore you with an explanation. If you follow me......DON'T BLINK!
*shudder*
Okay, so I guess if I had to choose a fear, it would be spiders. Oh, how I hate spiders. I like lizards, snakes, and mice. But keep those creepy, 8-legged things away! I am that girl, who upon finding a spider (mostly small and harmless), will yell for her husband to come kill it. Every time. And he hates it.
I mean, I have lived on a ship for 6 months out to sea. I gave birth. I have a 4 year old and a 13 year old. Both girls. You would think I could kill a little ol' spider. Ugh! It gives me the heebie-jeebies! And of course, when I HAVE to kill one (like when my hubby isn't home), it takes me awhile. And it isn't very pretty. Actually, you would probably be a little embarrassed for me. But you should see what a big shot I am when I kill that sucker. I mean, I am one tough cookie. Don't mess with mama, the spider slayer!
And just because I DID NOT want to go searching for a spider to get a picture of for this challenge, I asked my 4 year old to draw me a picture of the scariest spider she could.
Well, not very scary, is it? Her exact words: "Well, I wanted it to be a cutie spider!"
She is so 4, and so a little girl! Who else would make a spider "cute"? Haha love it! This is a baby spider in her web. The flowers are potted, sitting on a windowsill. The spider has a pacifier in her mouth and a little curl with a bow. So adorable! Makes me rethink my fear of spiders...........
Nope. They are still creepy.
Fear. Well, that isn't very fun, is it? I am definitely not one of those girls that like scary movies. Death and gore really freak me out and scare the hell out of me. Why would I enjoy watching it? Now, if you like scary movies, good for you! In fact, my little sister and step-daughter are huge scary movie fans. I just do not care for them.
So, the scariest thing I have watched recently involve angel statues. And blinking. If i have confused you, I am sorry, and I will not bore you with an explanation. If you follow me......DON'T BLINK!
*shudder*
Okay, so I guess if I had to choose a fear, it would be spiders. Oh, how I hate spiders. I like lizards, snakes, and mice. But keep those creepy, 8-legged things away! I am that girl, who upon finding a spider (mostly small and harmless), will yell for her husband to come kill it. Every time. And he hates it.
I mean, I have lived on a ship for 6 months out to sea. I gave birth. I have a 4 year old and a 13 year old. Both girls. You would think I could kill a little ol' spider. Ugh! It gives me the heebie-jeebies! And of course, when I HAVE to kill one (like when my hubby isn't home), it takes me awhile. And it isn't very pretty. Actually, you would probably be a little embarrassed for me. But you should see what a big shot I am when I kill that sucker. I mean, I am one tough cookie. Don't mess with mama, the spider slayer!
And just because I DID NOT want to go searching for a spider to get a picture of for this challenge, I asked my 4 year old to draw me a picture of the scariest spider she could.
Well, not very scary, is it? Her exact words: "Well, I wanted it to be a cutie spider!"
She is so 4, and so a little girl! Who else would make a spider "cute"? Haha love it! This is a baby spider in her web. The flowers are potted, sitting on a windowsill. The spider has a pacifier in her mouth and a little curl with a bow. So adorable! Makes me rethink my fear of spiders...........
Nope. They are still creepy.
March 6th
You will have to excuse my missing pictures. I have not been feeling well, so I got a little behind. Attempting to catch up now.
So, chair. Hmmm. Honestly, the very first thing that comes to mind when I think of a chair, is this:
Oh, how I loved this show! Penny the clay animation girl, Pterri the pterodactyl, the giant ball of tin foil, and of course, Chairry! I know, silly, but its the truth! Loved that chair!
Alright, now I am going back a few months for this photo. I just think it is so cute, and really wanted a warm picture! Beach weather is right around the corner, and I am ready!
So there is my cutie, lounging in my chair. And there is my handsome honey! I so truly love my family!!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
March 5th
Under: Get down and take a photo of ‘under’. It could be something hiding underneath something, or your perspective from under something.
I got off easy on the earlier challenge, so I really wanted to be creative. I racked my brain all day on this..........nothing. I was looking at the shelves in our dining room for inspiration. On a few of the shelves are knick-knacks that Allen and I have collected from our deployments in the Navy. Light bulb! It's a stretch, but...................................................
This is a hand painted boomerang from Australia. It is laying on a kangaroo pelt, also from Australia. So I took a picture of something from 'A Land Down Under'.Totally a stretch, but I think it works! I claim success!
So, to go along with the theme, I leave you with a song.
I got off easy on the earlier challenge, so I really wanted to be creative. I racked my brain all day on this..........nothing. I was looking at the shelves in our dining room for inspiration. On a few of the shelves are knick-knacks that Allen and I have collected from our deployments in the Navy. Light bulb! It's a stretch, but...................................................
This is a hand painted boomerang from Australia. It is laying on a kangaroo pelt, also from Australia. So I took a picture of something from 'A Land Down Under'.Totally a stretch, but I think it works! I claim success!
So, to go along with the theme, I leave you with a song.
March 4th
Lucky: Take a photo of something that you use for luck, or something that makes you feel lucky. Or how ever you want to interpret luck!
I am going to be totally cliche on this one. Becca and I went out looking for Spring. We found a few tulips and daffodils popping out, some cherry blossoms (love these!), and little beds of shamrocks all over the park. Happened to be on the same day as the "Lucky" challenge, so I went with it!
Look at the size of this one! And look at that cute little redhead!
Turn that same shamrock over, and look how purple. So neat!
And look at this vibrant one. It was sitting in a patch of sunlight.
May luck be always on your side!
I am going to be totally cliche on this one. Becca and I went out looking for Spring. We found a few tulips and daffodils popping out, some cherry blossoms (love these!), and little beds of shamrocks all over the park. Happened to be on the same day as the "Lucky" challenge, so I went with it!
Look at the size of this one! And look at that cute little redhead!
Turn that same shamrock over, and look how purple. So neat!
And look at this vibrant one. It was sitting in a patch of sunlight.
May luck be always on your side!
Monday, March 4, 2013
March 3rd
Key: Take a photo of a key. Be as creative as you can/like.
Well, I don't know how creative it is, but I took a picture of a key. Twos keys, actually, which both share a clip with a whistle.
This old, beat up whistle and mismatched key set happen to be one of my most cherished possessions. My mom was in band when she was in high school. During her senior year, she was also the drum major. This was her whistle, and the keys unlocked her instrument cases. I was also in band from 5th grade through high school, and always dreamed of being a drum major, just like my mom. I was so extremely lucky to have that dream come true during my senior year.
And she gave me her whistle.
Well, I don't know how creative it is, but I took a picture of a key. Twos keys, actually, which both share a clip with a whistle.
This old, beat up whistle and mismatched key set happen to be one of my most cherished possessions. My mom was in band when she was in high school. During her senior year, she was also the drum major. This was her whistle, and the keys unlocked her instrument cases. I was also in band from 5th grade through high school, and always dreamed of being a drum major, just like my mom. I was so extremely lucky to have that dream come true during my senior year.
And she gave me her whistle.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Let's Get Juicing!
****Warning!****
I am not a doctor, nor claim to be. The information here is what I have gathered from personal research and/or obtained from health professionals. Each person is different, with personal needs. So please only use this information as a guideline for your own research.
The hubby and I have decided to start juicing! Starting with a juice fast, then supplementing daily. And this has sprouted from our recent desire for a complete lifestyle overhaul. Our goal is to get processed junk out, and whole food in. Let's face it, we want to be around for a long time, and this processed stuff is not going to make that happen.
These past few months have been very eye opening for us. We have been learning in depth about the food industry, from the farmer to the table. Extremely shocking to see how this country's food system works. I am going to add a list of some films and books that, if you are interested, will open your eyes to a lot of things. Please feel free to add any films, books, articles, websites or whatever in the comments to share with others. Remember, always do your research!
Films Books
Food, Inc. The Omnivores Dilemma
Food Matters Tomatoland
Farmageddon Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal
Ingredients Eating Well (actually, this is a magazine, but good)
Over the past 2 years, my husband and I have been gradually changing our food habits. We have cut out a lot of red meat; going from having it 5 nights a week to about 1. We are eating a lot more chicken, fish, and pork. About once a week we even have a meatless meal. We have cut down on fast food and restaurants. We have not bought potato chips or soda for months (but occasionally have a soda when we do eat out). Fruit has replaced most of the sugary and salty snacks, and the kids love it. I hardly ever throw out fruits and veggies anymore! And any chance we get, we buy from local farms and businesses. Whole and natural foods are the goal. We have done this all gradually, and it has made it to where these changes have been successful, and not too painful.
We are about to make the most drastic change yet. Juicing. Now, as you will hear anywhere else, it is not wise to start a juice diet, or any other diet, without first contacting your doctor. Between my husband and me, we have a few health problems. This made it especially important for us to be in contact with our physician. I am going to include all the information we received from our doctor, as well as the dietitian she referred us to.
The Doctor's Say:
* Our doctor has given us the "go ahead" on a juice diet, but prefers it goes no longer then 10 days (in "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead", they fast for much longer periods. If you want to do this, please consult your doctor)
* She says a juice fast can lead to heart arrhythmia. This can happen if you juice for a long period time and without the right balance of nutrients/vitamins. Please make sure to have good sources of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, B6 & Folic Acid, Allium Compounds, Omega-3 and Ellagic Acid (I will post a few examples of raw food that contains these at the end of this post).
* Our doctor's main advice: Do your research before starting any diet, and pay attention to your body.
The Dietitian's Word:
* Our dietitian is not a fan of a prolonged all-juice diet. She also recommends not going longer then 10 days with just juice. Now, she recommends a combination of juiced fruits and veggies, as well as blended. Blended veggies/fruits give you beneficial fiber, a key to any healthy diet. She recommends 25-75 grams of fiber throughout an entire day (not all at once!).
* If diabetic or pre-diabetic, keep fruit juice intake to a minimum. They are still full of carbs. A healthy carb intake is 45-60 grams a meal for women and 60-70 grams per meal for men. However, we need some carbs, so it is important not to go lower than 120 grams a day. Smaller meals are key for keeping your blood sugar under control, even if you are in good health. Eating big meals is like putting gas in your car when the tank is full.
Why juice?
1. Cooking/processing foods destroys vital micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) by altering their shape and chemical composition
2. Juicing helps you absorb all the nutrients from the vegetables
3. Easier to add a wider variety of vegetables to your diet
4. You can easily and significantly increase your daily fruit and vegetable intake
Here is some good info from a site I found helpful. To access the site and full article, click HERE
"When you juice your fruits and vegetables, you remove the fiber and drink only the liquid
which contains the organic hydration, nutrients, vitamins and enzymes from the plant food.
Although you do need fiber in your diet, going for a certain period of time without it will
give your body a chance to spend less energy on digestion.
Around 70% of your energy every day is spent on digestion alone, so when you are
eating 3 meals a day plus snacks, you are rarely giving your body a chance to direct
energy to deeply cleansing the body and drawing up old acidic waste that is likely
causing a whole host of symptoms.
If you suffer from headaches, constipation, diarrhea, skin troubles, fatigue, irritability,
excess weight, bloating or any other number of symptoms, your body needs some help to
cleanse. The intelligent application of fasting is a brilliant way of helping you to do this.
A good rule of thumb is to ensure that at least half of your juices when fasting are green
vegetable based juices, and then use other juices for fun and variety. Be particularly
careful not to overdo fresh fruit juices as they will send your sugar levels out of balance
and feed yeast if over consumed.
Low sugar fruit juices are a better option. Fresh grapefruit juice alone is divine, green
apples add sweetness to any juice, and berries add a whole new indulgent flavor. Use
lemons and limes in everything if you like! They are brilliant alkalizers and extremely low in
sugar."
So, we have come up with a diet and fast that will work for us based on the recommendations of these health professionals, and our own personal choices. My husband will do a 5 day pure juice cleanse. I will do one day of both juice and blended, 3 days pure juice, and one day juice/blended (5 days in total). We will use the "Mean Green" recipe (included below) the majority of the time, as it is packed full of so many of the daily nutrients we need. We will also juice everyday (we are able) and eat more raw after the cleanse/fast. We plan on completing additional 3 to 5 day cleanses about ever 4 months thereafter.
JUICING
What juicer do I buy?
Centrifugal Vs. Masticating
Centrifugal juicers are faster. They are the most popular juicers due to their speed. However,
due to the high speed, some softer fruits or leafy veggies will not juice well. You will also not
extract as much juice as you would with a masticating juicer. The friction caused by
blending can actually destroy some nutrients.
Masticating juicers are a bit slower, but you will extract the most juice. The more detailed
process of a masticating juicer ensures high quality juice every time. These are usually
higher in price. However, with a masticating juicer, you can do a lot more then juice. You can
make nut butter, baby food, ice cream and sauces.
Bottom line: Do your research and go with the juicer that works best for you and your
lifestyle. We went with a masticating juicer. I have never used a centrifugal juicer before,
but here is what I noticed about a masticating juicer:
* Juices fairly quickly
* So quiet!
* Easier to clean then expected
* Pulp is so dry! It definitely squeezes every drop out
* Quality, durable, and efficient
* Seriously yummy juice!
* So easy
* Along with being able to make baby food, ice cream, nut butter, and sauces, our juicer
extrudes pasta and bread sticks (with included attachments) and grinds flax and other
seeds
This is the juicer we bought. OMEGA 8006 It is a beast, and we like it so far!
As promised, here is a list of some vitamins and minerals you need to incorporate into a well balanced diet of micronutrients, along with some foods packed full of them! Research individually to learn all the amazing benefits each of these give us (like Allium, which "possesses anticancer activities as well as antiarthritic, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antithrombotic, antiviral and lipid-lowering abilities". Learn more HERE.).
Vitamin C - Bell Peppers, Kale, Broccoli, Kiwi, Oranges, Lemons
Vitamin E - Spinach, Swiss Chard, Kale, Nuts, Red Bell Peppers, Broccoli
Magnesium - Flax Seed, Almonds, Edamame, Broccoli, Cashews
Calcium - Dandelion Greens, Kale, Oranges, Lemons, cucumbers, Celery, Carrots
Potassium - Kiwi, Oranges, Pears, Peanuts, Broccoli, Celery
B6 & Folic Acid - Spinach, Turnip Greens, Broccoli, Carrots
Allium Compounds - Arugula, Bokchoy, Broccoli, Garlic
Omega-3 - Flax Seed, Basil, Broccoli, Kale, Spinach
Ellagic Acid - Walnuts, Raspberries, Strawberries
Here is the main recipe we will be using on our juice fast, and daily supplementation after. It is called the "Mean Green", and is from the documentary "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead". It is worth taking the time to watch. Joe Cross, who made this documentary, went through an amazing transformation. He has an awesome site full of tons of information, like help with what juicer to buy and recipes (even recipes for the kids!). Check it out HERE.
Mean Green Juice
So to close this up, I am just going to add a couple of bits of information I have come across during my research and I think will be helpful!
Always remember that you do not have to be perfect! Just reading this and considering a lifestyle change is a huge step in a great direction. Life is crazy and hectic, and sometimes, whole, fresh food is not possible. Just try each day to put the best ingredients you can into your body whenever possible, and you will feel so much better. Believe me, we LOVE good food, and there are some things we are not ever going to give up. It will just be in moderation and as a special treat.
I am not a doctor, nor claim to be. The information here is what I have gathered from personal research and/or obtained from health professionals. Each person is different, with personal needs. So please only use this information as a guideline for your own research.
The hubby and I have decided to start juicing! Starting with a juice fast, then supplementing daily. And this has sprouted from our recent desire for a complete lifestyle overhaul. Our goal is to get processed junk out, and whole food in. Let's face it, we want to be around for a long time, and this processed stuff is not going to make that happen.
These past few months have been very eye opening for us. We have been learning in depth about the food industry, from the farmer to the table. Extremely shocking to see how this country's food system works. I am going to add a list of some films and books that, if you are interested, will open your eyes to a lot of things. Please feel free to add any films, books, articles, websites or whatever in the comments to share with others. Remember, always do your research!
Films Books
Food, Inc. The Omnivores Dilemma
Food Matters Tomatoland
Farmageddon Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal
Ingredients Eating Well (actually, this is a magazine, but good)
Over the past 2 years, my husband and I have been gradually changing our food habits. We have cut out a lot of red meat; going from having it 5 nights a week to about 1. We are eating a lot more chicken, fish, and pork. About once a week we even have a meatless meal. We have cut down on fast food and restaurants. We have not bought potato chips or soda for months (but occasionally have a soda when we do eat out). Fruit has replaced most of the sugary and salty snacks, and the kids love it. I hardly ever throw out fruits and veggies anymore! And any chance we get, we buy from local farms and businesses. Whole and natural foods are the goal. We have done this all gradually, and it has made it to where these changes have been successful, and not too painful.
We are about to make the most drastic change yet. Juicing. Now, as you will hear anywhere else, it is not wise to start a juice diet, or any other diet, without first contacting your doctor. Between my husband and me, we have a few health problems. This made it especially important for us to be in contact with our physician. I am going to include all the information we received from our doctor, as well as the dietitian she referred us to.
The Doctor's Say:
* Our doctor has given us the "go ahead" on a juice diet, but prefers it goes no longer then 10 days (in "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead", they fast for much longer periods. If you want to do this, please consult your doctor)
* She says a juice fast can lead to heart arrhythmia. This can happen if you juice for a long period time and without the right balance of nutrients/vitamins. Please make sure to have good sources of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, B6 & Folic Acid, Allium Compounds, Omega-3 and Ellagic Acid (I will post a few examples of raw food that contains these at the end of this post).
* Our doctor's main advice: Do your research before starting any diet, and pay attention to your body.
The Dietitian's Word:
* Our dietitian is not a fan of a prolonged all-juice diet. She also recommends not going longer then 10 days with just juice. Now, she recommends a combination of juiced fruits and veggies, as well as blended. Blended veggies/fruits give you beneficial fiber, a key to any healthy diet. She recommends 25-75 grams of fiber throughout an entire day (not all at once!).
* If diabetic or pre-diabetic, keep fruit juice intake to a minimum. They are still full of carbs. A healthy carb intake is 45-60 grams a meal for women and 60-70 grams per meal for men. However, we need some carbs, so it is important not to go lower than 120 grams a day. Smaller meals are key for keeping your blood sugar under control, even if you are in good health. Eating big meals is like putting gas in your car when the tank is full.
Why juice?
1. Cooking/processing foods destroys vital micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) by altering their shape and chemical composition
2. Juicing helps you absorb all the nutrients from the vegetables
3. Easier to add a wider variety of vegetables to your diet
4. You can easily and significantly increase your daily fruit and vegetable intake
Here is some good info from a site I found helpful. To access the site and full article, click HERE
"When you juice your fruits and vegetables, you remove the fiber and drink only the liquid
which contains the organic hydration, nutrients, vitamins and enzymes from the plant food.
Although you do need fiber in your diet, going for a certain period of time without it will
give your body a chance to spend less energy on digestion.
Around 70% of your energy every day is spent on digestion alone, so when you are
eating 3 meals a day plus snacks, you are rarely giving your body a chance to direct
energy to deeply cleansing the body and drawing up old acidic waste that is likely
causing a whole host of symptoms.
If you suffer from headaches, constipation, diarrhea, skin troubles, fatigue, irritability,
excess weight, bloating or any other number of symptoms, your body needs some help to
cleanse. The intelligent application of fasting is a brilliant way of helping you to do this.
A good rule of thumb is to ensure that at least half of your juices when fasting are green
vegetable based juices, and then use other juices for fun and variety. Be particularly
careful not to overdo fresh fruit juices as they will send your sugar levels out of balance
and feed yeast if over consumed.
Low sugar fruit juices are a better option. Fresh grapefruit juice alone is divine, green
apples add sweetness to any juice, and berries add a whole new indulgent flavor. Use
lemons and limes in everything if you like! They are brilliant alkalizers and extremely low in
sugar."
So, we have come up with a diet and fast that will work for us based on the recommendations of these health professionals, and our own personal choices. My husband will do a 5 day pure juice cleanse. I will do one day of both juice and blended, 3 days pure juice, and one day juice/blended (5 days in total). We will use the "Mean Green" recipe (included below) the majority of the time, as it is packed full of so many of the daily nutrients we need. We will also juice everyday (we are able) and eat more raw after the cleanse/fast. We plan on completing additional 3 to 5 day cleanses about ever 4 months thereafter.
Juicing Vs. Blending
(the following comes from an article written by Joe Cross)
JUICING
When you juice you push clean produce through the chute of a juicer. This process removes the insoluble fiber (but the soluble fiber remains in the juice). Important micronutrients typically more difficult to absorb become accessible to the human body. These nutrients include digestive enzymes and certain phytonutrients. Also, by creating an all liquid product, the body and consume more of these phytonutrients at once.
It amazes new Rebooters sometimes how small the juice yield is from vegetables like kale, and makes it clear that it’s a lot easier to drink a head of kale than to eat it!
BLENDING
When you make smoothies, you load up a blender with clean, fresh or frozen fruits, and green leafy veggies (swiss chard or spinach, for example) and liquid like coconut water, juice or almond milk. You can also add ingredients like almonds, hemp or soy milk, cacao nibs or chia seed for fun.
When you drink smoothies, your body benefits from the phytonutrients found in the skin and flesh of fruits and veggies. You also benefit from the large amounts of fiber found in whole fruits and vegetables. Fiber is important for regulating blood sugar, keeping bowels regular, aiding in hunger control, and it may help prevent certain types of cancers.
What juicer do I buy?
Centrifugal Vs. Masticating
Centrifugal juicers are faster. They are the most popular juicers due to their speed. However,
due to the high speed, some softer fruits or leafy veggies will not juice well. You will also not
extract as much juice as you would with a masticating juicer. The friction caused by
blending can actually destroy some nutrients.
Masticating juicers are a bit slower, but you will extract the most juice. The more detailed
process of a masticating juicer ensures high quality juice every time. These are usually
higher in price. However, with a masticating juicer, you can do a lot more then juice. You can
make nut butter, baby food, ice cream and sauces.
Bottom line: Do your research and go with the juicer that works best for you and your
lifestyle. We went with a masticating juicer. I have never used a centrifugal juicer before,
but here is what I noticed about a masticating juicer:
* Juices fairly quickly
* So quiet!
* Easier to clean then expected
* Pulp is so dry! It definitely squeezes every drop out
* Quality, durable, and efficient
* Seriously yummy juice!
* So easy
* Along with being able to make baby food, ice cream, nut butter, and sauces, our juicer
extrudes pasta and bread sticks (with included attachments) and grinds flax and other
seeds
This is the juicer we bought. OMEGA 8006 It is a beast, and we like it so far!
As promised, here is a list of some vitamins and minerals you need to incorporate into a well balanced diet of micronutrients, along with some foods packed full of them! Research individually to learn all the amazing benefits each of these give us (like Allium, which "possesses anticancer activities as well as antiarthritic, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antithrombotic, antiviral and lipid-lowering abilities". Learn more HERE.).
Vitamin C - Bell Peppers, Kale, Broccoli, Kiwi, Oranges, Lemons
Vitamin E - Spinach, Swiss Chard, Kale, Nuts, Red Bell Peppers, Broccoli
Magnesium - Flax Seed, Almonds, Edamame, Broccoli, Cashews
Calcium - Dandelion Greens, Kale, Oranges, Lemons, cucumbers, Celery, Carrots
Potassium - Kiwi, Oranges, Pears, Peanuts, Broccoli, Celery
B6 & Folic Acid - Spinach, Turnip Greens, Broccoli, Carrots
Allium Compounds - Arugula, Bokchoy, Broccoli, Garlic
Omega-3 - Flax Seed, Basil, Broccoli, Kale, Spinach
Ellagic Acid - Walnuts, Raspberries, Strawberries
Here is the main recipe we will be using on our juice fast, and daily supplementation after. It is called the "Mean Green", and is from the documentary "Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead". It is worth taking the time to watch. Joe Cross, who made this documentary, went through an amazing transformation. He has an awesome site full of tons of information, like help with what juicer to buy and recipes (even recipes for the kids!). Check it out HERE.
Mean Green Juice
6 Kale Leaves
1 Cucumber
4 Celery Stalks
2 Green Apples
1/2 Lemon
1 piece of ginger
1 Cucumber
4 Celery Stalks
2 Green Apples
1/2 Lemon
1 piece of ginger
So to close this up, I am just going to add a couple of bits of information I have come across during my research and I think will be helpful!
* The daily recommendation of vegetables we should consume is 1 pound of vegetables to
every 50 pounds of your body weight! This is where juicing makes it easy!
every 50 pounds of your body weight! This is where juicing makes it easy!
* Without food rotation (like eating the same salad everyday, instead of having a variety of
veggies) you are at higher risk of developing a food allergy
veggies) you are at higher risk of developing a food allergy
* Stress creates adrenaline. Adrenaline robs your body of Vitamin C
*Fresh juice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 72 hours
* If you have high blood pressure, diabetes high cholesterol or are overweight, limit your intake
of fruits until these conditions are normalized
of fruits until these conditions are normalized
Always remember that you do not have to be perfect! Just reading this and considering a lifestyle change is a huge step in a great direction. Life is crazy and hectic, and sometimes, whole, fresh food is not possible. Just try each day to put the best ingredients you can into your body whenever possible, and you will feel so much better. Believe me, we LOVE good food, and there are some things we are not ever going to give up. It will just be in moderation and as a special treat.
We are beginning our fast sometime during the last week of March (will post details when it gets closer). My husband will be on Spring break, so it will be easier to fast without the temptation of culinary school goodies. We will have the freedom to get out and go to keep our minds off of food, and to burn all the extra energy we are going to have. If you are joining us, please share your recipes, ideas, and progress!
Food is what nourishes us, it is our lifeline, and brings us together with a common bond and love. Here is to a healthier, and more energetic, you!
Food is what nourishes us, it is our lifeline, and brings us together with a common bond and love. Here is to a healthier, and more energetic, you!
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