tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12570798534917544212024-02-20T21:19:56.320-08:00One Healthy Mamatrying to be healthy in a balanced,
chocolate-eating sort of wayc http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-28734460033865334592011-03-15T10:29:00.000-07:002011-03-15T10:36:27.543-07:00gettin' on my soapbox<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am about to get all judgy and controversial. Maybe you won't like me anymore. This is definitely a hot button issue in some circles, so I understand if you disagree. But, here goes.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Preschool snacks</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I remember a conversation I had with a friend of mine before I had kids. She was upset over what her kids were being fed at school, and I kind of got it, but not really. But now I have a preschooler of my own and I totally get it. We are not crazy health nuts, trust me. We are a family of donut lovers and coffee drinkers (well, not the kids - they need no help in that department). In general, though, I try to make sure everyone gets a well-balanced diet consisting of lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and protein. When the little guy started preschool this year we got a handout explaining the rules of snack - no peanuts and generally healthy. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"So buddy, what did you have for snack today?"</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Ooooh, it was good, Mama! Chocolate milk and chocolate pudding!"</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Uhhhh, that's it?"</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Oh, and some grapes."</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Really, people? Chocolate milk AND chocolate pudding? At 10am? Really?</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Those things aren't necessarily bad, but I mean, come on. Let's pace ourselves. And also, I have to deal with that sugar rush right before nap time. Geez.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyway, it's our snack week. I did send grapes and juice, even though my kids really never drink juice. It's a treat and it's fun to take something you like to school. I also made breakfast cookies, and I am going to share that recipe one more time, because kids do not even know it's healthy, and I did want my little man to be kind of excited about announcing his snack. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So </span><a href="http://onehealthymama.blogspot.com/2010/03/cookies-in-morning.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>here it is</i></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">!</span></span><br />
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</span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-25332171580032050092011-01-11T15:33:00.000-08:002011-01-11T15:33:32.414-08:00confessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQDpRt80zBBczhQ5qNXkcfb1xefC2TOAzjYBzDeE0d3BynBhfxZvLjEztXpafHooi0MVW4JDbESbhS4mQnjXn63MIdkeNACO8pJx_2GcG8JtnNw-UMTi9Q71CRF38pPiuDU6xZvPaG4g/s1600/simpsons_donuts-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQDpRt80zBBczhQ5qNXkcfb1xefC2TOAzjYBzDeE0d3BynBhfxZvLjEztXpafHooi0MVW4JDbESbhS4mQnjXn63MIdkeNACO8pJx_2GcG8JtnNw-UMTi9Q71CRF38pPiuDU6xZvPaG4g/s320/simpsons_donuts-l.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">2010 was not my healthiest year. It was a year of indulgence, actually. I cooked with a lot more butter, said yes to a lot more donuts, enjoyed a few extra mochas. I am not against any of those things... in moderation. But the problem was that instead of losing those last few pounds of baby weight, I gained eight of them back. Turning it from baby weight into regular old butter weight. And despite the fact that I was nursing my little guy up to five times a day, those pounds still snuck up on me. As the holidays approached, I thought to myself: you have two choices. You can gain another seven pounds (the average for most people from Thanksgiving to New Years), or you can kick these pounds to the curb.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So I did. I counted my calories and exercised, and now six weeks later I am ten pounds lighter. I am totally against calorie obsession, but I needed to reprogram my brain to what is normal and what my daily intake should look like. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So, I am going to hop back on this blog and hopefully keep myself accountable. I am not saying a final goodbye to butter or donuts or mochas, but I am most definitely going to keep my relationship with those dudes a little more casual. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Here is to a healthy 2011!</span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-55396808927830276972010-05-19T13:53:00.000-07:002010-05-20T10:17:30.438-07:00i am so sporadic<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I realize I am totally inconsistent in my posting. I am kind of thinking of giving up the notion that I will be here regularly. I have all these good intentions and take photos of my food, but then I never seem to find the time to get it together enough to post it! So, I wanted to just link you up to my </span><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/condiments/arugula-pesto/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">newest recipe</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> , which I posted on </span><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Tasty Kitchen.</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Have you guys been over there yet? It's a fun site and not yet overwhelmingly huge.</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Also, I have kept this blog pretty anonymous. I think my mom might be the only reader who knows me in real life (hey Mom!). But I do have a </span><a href="http://nickandcarina.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">blog that I keep up pretty regularly</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> , full of the adventure I am living with three little dudes at my feet. You all are welcome to pop over any time and check it out!</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Thanks for following me and my attempt at healthy living. I will still post here from time to time, and I will be putting recipes up a bit more frequently over at TK. </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">All the best!</span></span></span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-64484873545227538992010-04-29T20:40:00.000-07:002010-04-29T20:40:03.330-07:00vegetable pie<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is one of my favorite dishes. It's rich and comforting, it's full of vegetables, and it's (relatively) good for you. My mom has made it for years, and I started making it shortly after I got married. It's a great vegetarian option and I swear you won't even miss the meat. Serve this up with a green salad and you'll have yourself a nice little meal.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-drafqAiafNgFJ63y0LQEWgwJKYPrQMA9AT7qdPzWHDZ8P3jdRI-p-Uo8ivN6cM_dfu_D69yT6mYj1Qcd9Zbw9cwnfsHN66lQIPSa41nMIqEwJCF-55Hayqp4jWbAMmArkiBBMbFlZw/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-drafqAiafNgFJ63y0LQEWgwJKYPrQMA9AT7qdPzWHDZ8P3jdRI-p-Uo8ivN6cM_dfu_D69yT6mYj1Qcd9Zbw9cwnfsHN66lQIPSa41nMIqEwJCF-55Hayqp4jWbAMmArkiBBMbFlZw/s320/DSC_0008.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ medium eggplant, cubed</span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 yellow onion, thinly sliced</span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 green pepper, thinly sliced</span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced</span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">2 tablespoons olive oil</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">½ teaspoon salt</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">freshly ground pepper</span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ teaspoon dried oregano</span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ teaspoon basil</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">1 large tomato, thinly sliced</span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup shredded cheddar </span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup shredded mozzarella </span></span></span><br />
<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">double pie crust </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">Toss eggplant, onion, green pepper, zucchini and garlic with olive oil, spices, salt and pepper in a roasting pan or large baking sheet. Roast at 425 degrees until soft, stirring every 10 minutes for about 30 minutes. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">In the meantime, prepare your pie crust (I swear I don't work for Trader Joe's, but they make a really really good frozen crust).</span><br />
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<span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once your vegetable are done, layer half of vegetables, half of the cheese, and half the tomato. Repeat. Make a lattice top pie crust (or fake it like I do) and bake for 25 min at 425 degrees. Let cool about 10 minutes before serving.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">And enjoy! </span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-60704452122302153262010-04-06T16:18:00.000-07:002010-04-09T10:11:40.150-07:00a little update<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkW0Ij-kzZZ-m7mKJMR2_qrhHmVvALdree1vmFpsaBs4k0GdWGEDJ89ZB8mRJ2gIluSE4Omq_V4jBvkZOVCKCiJ8mqTRRvDmg3pYKeJFsbcRMqVRXXY5MRhPya2HwseZL7kphsrZf6gw8/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkW0Ij-kzZZ-m7mKJMR2_qrhHmVvALdree1vmFpsaBs4k0GdWGEDJ89ZB8mRJ2gIluSE4Omq_V4jBvkZOVCKCiJ8mqTRRvDmg3pYKeJFsbcRMqVRXXY5MRhPya2HwseZL7kphsrZf6gw8/s320/images.jpeg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Remember back in January when I told you about my little weight loss competition? It is finally over! I don't know if I won - I was a close second last week. But I have lost FIFTEEN pounds! I am so excited. Pre-pregnancy weight? Yes. Pre-pregnancy body? Not so much. I have to admit, most of the weight loss is from watching what I eat and drink (while still eating chocolate, of course), nursing, and chasing my children (48 trips up the stairs to replace fallen pacifiers can burn a few). Haven't quite gotten back into working out like I hoped I would. I am getting a treadmill from my generous parents, and I have had every intention of starting up </span><a href="http://onehealthymama.blogspot.com/2009/01/some-thoughts-on-fitness.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Shred</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> again, but at the end of the day I am just not super motivated. I would LOVE some tips on getting it going from moms who have been there. Let me know what has worked for you!</span></span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-18800069084743307312010-03-22T13:20:00.000-07:002010-03-22T13:25:25.218-07:00cookies in the morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2ncfrQABrlWK-T5okxmVb_8JjBMoNoEY0RJLENhYzgJ9AEgLH_RaRrTn6ukbLTvtPZGSb4B0Mn8EwCKI-0HEKasdG82LkefzhLAemNtK7uSHDn2iws5TtoK4_vZNOS_3m_wEgrDdvhw/s1600-h/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2ncfrQABrlWK-T5okxmVb_8JjBMoNoEY0RJLENhYzgJ9AEgLH_RaRrTn6ukbLTvtPZGSb4B0Mn8EwCKI-0HEKasdG82LkefzhLAemNtK7uSHDn2iws5TtoK4_vZNOS_3m_wEgrDdvhw/s320/DSC_0044.JPG" /></a></div>This breakfast cookie is one of the best I've tried. It's an adaptation from the Sneaky Chef. We eat them more as a mid-morning or after-nap snack, but they are great to grab on your way out the door to eat on the go (and much safer than the usual bowl of cereal in the car trick my husband likes to try).<br />
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And of course you can mix up what you add in. We like dried cranberries and sunflower seeds. You could try raisins, apricots, coconut, almonds, pecans - or nothing at all! Play around with fun combinations.<br />
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So, here it is.<br />
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3-4 cups whole grain cereal flakes (like Total)<br />
1/4 cup wheat germ or oat bran<br />
1/4 cup all purpose flour<br />
1/4 cup whole wheat flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 cup canola oil<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
3/4 cup low fat ricotta cheese<br />
1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)<br />
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)<br />
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Use a rolling pin or mallet to crush the cereal in a plastic bag. Or just stick it in the food processor. You should have about 2 cups of coarsely crushed cereal when you're done.<br />
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Mix together cereal, wheat germ or oat bran (oat bran has a more appealing flavor for kids), flours, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, stir together egg, sugar, oil, vanilla and cheese. Combine the two mixtures.<br />
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I like to make bigger cookies, so I use about 1/4 cup per cookie and flatten them slightly on the cookie sheet. Bake at 400 for about 15 minutes, until the edges are just slightly brown. Let them cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.<br />
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Enjoy... And let me know if you come up with any noteworthy combinations!c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-1037376374987806882010-03-18T17:47:00.000-07:002010-03-18T17:48:59.179-07:00it's that time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzYOYhvoBjx9jK6jxNF8Ksszob3ZLdQytWTKMM04dnBoEYhXooP8G-k9TGr5CS5PmFgE491wkCc4saQEif0-MEC_CvdB1WLZXdSw9JxBahlBA7HydSnemmpZtnBRnj9XfXa7adLD15Ec/s1600-h/burpee1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzYOYhvoBjx9jK6jxNF8Ksszob3ZLdQytWTKMM04dnBoEYhXooP8G-k9TGr5CS5PmFgE491wkCc4saQEif0-MEC_CvdB1WLZXdSw9JxBahlBA7HydSnemmpZtnBRnj9XfXa7adLD15Ec/s320/burpee1.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>The weather isn't exactly right for planting around here yet, but I went a little crazy with my seed purchases last week. This year I am trying something new: rather than buying a bunch of starts in April or May, I am starting my own in my basement this week. Tomatoes, jalapenos, fennel, parsley, onions, carrots... the list goes on. I am even doing a seed exchange this year with a few friends to get a little variety. My husband has agreed to build me a couple of raised beds in the next few weeks, and my parents and I are going to do a "crop share". Don't I sound like I know what I am doing? This may be a huge disaster, as I am anything but a seasoned gardener. Actually this is only my second year and last year I only dabbled.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">One huge inspiration was the new book </span></span><a href="http://www.growgreatgrub.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Grow Great Grub</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> which came out last month. I have just started looking through it, and I </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">love love love</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">it. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I'll let you know how it goes. Successes and failures and what I learn from all of it - and hopefully a few recipes along the way!</span></span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-62179143288155101232010-03-05T08:56:00.000-08:002010-03-05T08:56:37.467-08:00inconvenientMy brand new (dumb) refrigerator broke last weekend. Not convenient. It was four days of freezing ziploc bags of ice to rotate in and out of the cooler. Four days of hoping we weren't ingesting some mutant bacteria that had formed in our jerry rigged cooling system. Thankfully we didn't, and on the plus side, my fridge is very, very clean.<br />
<br />
On the negative, I haven't cooked a lot this week, as I didn't want to have leftovers to store and wanted to use what we had. That meant lots of grilled cheese and fruit. Oh well, what can you do? I am just thankful for the repairman that came and fixed it. I am not excited about the $250 invoice, but I am pretty sure it's covered by warranty.<br />
<br />
One thing I've learned since we moved a couple of months ago: I really really like modern conveniences. The house was appliance free for almost a month - no fridge, no dishwasher, no washer and dryer. I had to be creative and I spent a lot of time at the sink. I was very happy every time a new appliance arrived at my door.<br />
<br />
Now if I could just get myself to go use them...c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-30921257024801353492010-02-22T21:42:00.000-08:002010-02-22T22:02:24.107-08:00super easy peasy teething biscuits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInLljEX4TgT2qdPtUx-0fviLiRm_8hEdK65gNKifQMeibEJFiA9DE7NDynOtKHc3Disap8jOm3h0iOatZsqpvipdQB-RW_AS7aG_dOCG3e8SnZ8GJ3YbEwGtEYiBd9I9Z-FLrMFD252M/s1600-h/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInLljEX4TgT2qdPtUx-0fviLiRm_8hEdK65gNKifQMeibEJFiA9DE7NDynOtKHc3Disap8jOm3h0iOatZsqpvipdQB-RW_AS7aG_dOCG3e8SnZ8GJ3YbEwGtEYiBd9I9Z-FLrMFD252M/s200/DSC_0030.JPG" width="200" /></a>These were so easy and simple and my little dude is just so excited to feel like he is eating real food. He feels like he's part of the "in" crowd, I can tell. He doesn't have teeth yet, so I am going to recommend this for babies who are just gumming at this point, since that's what I know works. And of course, always stay close by to watch your kiddo when they're eating. But he sucked on these for at least twenty minutes at a time with no crumbling at all. Then it'd end up on the floor... and then he'd want another one. So, I call that success!<br />
<br />
1/2 cup flour (I used whole wheat)<br />
1/2 cup baby rice cereal<br />
1/4 cup baby food (I used homemade sweet potato puree)<br />
1/4 cup 100% juice<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkpx-JTH4NTv2i7-0aXxlE5P1gc-jJUXy0oU7L-zVgBY_QqpoDMpwR5KvdsDAPouG7J6qL50jDvf_Gc9X0HzurQRD9K2FI-2ZFegAzTWICl-xKmgfJA-X24uxk66qyxJLFnKDGJ-BKQQ/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkpx-JTH4NTv2i7-0aXxlE5P1gc-jJUXy0oU7L-zVgBY_QqpoDMpwR5KvdsDAPouG7J6qL50jDvf_Gc9X0HzurQRD9K2FI-2ZFegAzTWICl-xKmgfJA-X24uxk66qyxJLFnKDGJ-BKQQ/s200/DSC_0047.JPG" width="200" /></a>Mix all of your ingredients together. Lightly flour your surface and the dough (it's really sticky, especially with whole wheat flour). Roll out to a little less than 1/4" (think thick cracker) and use a glass or cookie cutter to cut them (nice round edges are best). Bake on a lightly oiled cookie sheet at 325 degrees F for about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container.<br />
<br />
I noticed on my first batch that the dough tends to bubble. Maybe it's the flour I used. With the second batch, I checked on them after about ten minutes and pressed them with a spatula to prevent the bubbling. I also pricked the surface with a fork. After another ten minutes, I flipped them to finish off. They get a little dark around the edges, but they're nice and hard and shouldn't break in baby's mouth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You can feel good about them - nothin' bad for your baby. I keep them in the fridge - this recipe makes 7 or 8 biscuits - perfect for the week!</div><div><br />
</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-81675735873191790512010-02-14T22:43:00.000-08:002010-02-14T22:58:10.777-08:00valentine delight<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This has not been the healthiest week of my life. I have eaten a lot of really delicious, not so health conscious food. It's all about balance though, right? I've also spent the week steaming a lot of vegetables, pureeing them, and freezing them in cubes for my little pumpkin, but that wouldn't make for the most interesting post. Mamas, stay tuned this week though if you're interested in homemade teething biscuits... that's my next project.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Tonight was one of the best dinners I have made in a long time. I am not bragging, I am just excited to share. It was easy, if slightly time consuming, but totally worth it. And it got the response I wanted from my husband: grunts of satisfaction with every bite. And all thanks to Real Simple. I love that magazine.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So, here it is: </span><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/potato-leek-flat-bread-greens-10000001665002/index.html?xid=dailyrecnews-01-08-2010"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Potato Leek Flat Bread</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. I used a recipe at Food Network for the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/pizza-dough-recipe/index.html">pizza dough</a> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> (which, by the way I have used before, using whole wheat flour, and it was a little dense. Tonight I used all purpose and it was really good). You can used ground thyme instead of fresh, and you can skip the cheese if you want to lighten it up. But you can also add a couple of slices of prosciutto, like I did, for a little something special.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">All you need to go with it is a nice little salad and you've got yourself one delicious meal (we also had seared scallops, but honestly, they were secondary to this flat bread). Enjoy!</span>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-64381167777742490652010-02-03T22:51:00.000-08:002010-02-03T23:07:37.666-08:00for all the little sickies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9vXf9J4YwOMLDGhuK44Mdn_DiDQztoTBByHa8x18k7hRvH-f5Z-8rAHMrAnWMJxWpfvXfpyTjmAlTStKa7gocEG21yiK6TEWnr5h1WhHY0e-RtseSoobr6vRRK6s0DkdRgG65cZeWME/s1600-h/jar-of-honey.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9vXf9J4YwOMLDGhuK44Mdn_DiDQztoTBByHa8x18k7hRvH-f5Z-8rAHMrAnWMJxWpfvXfpyTjmAlTStKa7gocEG21yiK6TEWnr5h1WhHY0e-RtseSoobr6vRRK6s0DkdRgG65cZeWME/s200/jar-of-honey.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434281319195071138" /></a>The junk struck our house a few weeks ago - coughing, sniffling, sore throats, headaches... blech. By the time it made its way through all of us, we had spent about 3 weeks wiping noses, sleeping next to humidifiers, and listening to pathetic little coughs from all corners of our house.<div><br /></div><div>I wanted so badly to alleviate that loud, hoarse, sad cough for my little guy. Over-the-counter medication isn't recommended for kids under 4, so apart from a little cherry scented VapoRub, chances of relief looked dismal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Until mama did a little research. Turns out those OTC meds really only help them sleep, but don't do much for the cough so they weren't really worth pining after anyway. The more I looked into it, the more I heard that a tablespoon of honey is a natural, quick remedy for a cough. After three nights, we were more than ready, willing and able to test it out. Guess what? It totally worked! Nearly instant relief, and almost a full nights sleep. </div><div><br /></div><div>After further research, I also found out that the antioxidants it contains are natural immune boosters. Double bonus! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Since you can't give honey to babies under the age of one</span>, the littlest guys just had to deal, but big brother definitely benefited.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, if you find yourself stricken with the junk, or you've got sick little cuties hacking the night away, try a spoonful and you'll all sleep a little better.</div><div><br /></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-52198482981939064172010-02-02T14:07:00.000-08:002010-02-02T22:07:03.902-08:00even your kids will like it<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnJweMvC0xbWoj9llj6FPB3D1DfiSKP0-1YQL4zNdKmisD8p9P9oeWWqH_-NIU3LRP9BzaYpFmKr0OJQTVP2cuIzkMiUrBp2pM-nwjGPO1IE5fJSPbbH63mLAFypuWo_9G-OPRbo143w/s1600-h/DSC_0046.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnJweMvC0xbWoj9llj6FPB3D1DfiSKP0-1YQL4zNdKmisD8p9P9oeWWqH_-NIU3LRP9BzaYpFmKr0OJQTVP2cuIzkMiUrBp2pM-nwjGPO1IE5fJSPbbH63mLAFypuWo_9G-OPRbo143w/s200/DSC_0046.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433894704555999474" /></a>My husband loves coleslaw. LOVES it. I have never liked it. The only exception I make is when you can get it on your barbecue sandwich - a real southern treat. We don't live in the south, so this has happened once in my life. Anyway, I digress.<div><br /></div><div>This salad is where we meet in the middle. It is kinda, sorta like coleslaw, but so much fresher, crunchier, and better for you. Not sure if you've noticed my love of carrots, but I try to put them in everything. My kid says he doesn't like them, but he is going on looks alone because I don't think he has ever <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">knowingly</span> put a carrot in his mouth.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a quick, simple side dish and goes especially well with barbecue - which is what we're having tonight. This <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Zesty-Slow-Cooker-Chicken-Barbecue/Detail.aspx">Zesty Chicken</a> is awesome and amazing - another thing worth trying. </div><div><br /></div><div>OHM's Carrot Salad</div><div>6 large carrots, peeled</div><div>1/2 cup golden raisins</div><div>2 apples (I prefer honeycrisp or pink lady), peeled and chopped</div><div>1/4 reduced fat mayo</div><div>1/4 cup light sour cream</div><div>1 tablespoon (or a little more) honey</div><div>2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar</div><div>salt to taste</div><div><br /></div><div>Using your peeler, or a grater, shred carrots into a bowl. Add raisins and apples. In a separate container, whisk the remaining ingredients and combine with salad. You can eat this right away, or put it in the fridge for up to three days. Mmmmm, good good good.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I told the little dude what I was making, he informed me he would just like the apples and raisins, thankyouverymuch. But with a little coercion, even he had to admit it was pretty darn good.</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-6193968661878249112010-01-27T22:30:00.000-08:002010-01-28T04:58:22.344-08:00man pleasin' food<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgbYvtmUtnoy5KCikTBE87gSmBmKct8vZ7EMRF-SQSvB4SxZK_smjIWB56tv2Ox2U66hmopST7eB6R0esVav5zM1_2OSgdt7z3HbbMoBFjdFQ3WgD9b29HsfNEqhx_pM0mX4eJfLC4fU/s1600-h/DSC_0008.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgbYvtmUtnoy5KCikTBE87gSmBmKct8vZ7EMRF-SQSvB4SxZK_smjIWB56tv2Ox2U66hmopST7eB6R0esVav5zM1_2OSgdt7z3HbbMoBFjdFQ3WgD9b29HsfNEqhx_pM0mX4eJfLC4fU/s200/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431681364829108626" /></a>I live in a house full of testosterone, so I suppose some of my food should fit the stereotype. This is the meal that makes husbands, boyfriends, fathers, brothers, and little boys... happy. It's simple, sweet, meaty, and if you want, spicy. There are no visible vegetables. It's man food. So, in honor of the all the boys in my life, and because it's almost time for the big game, here is a recipe that should go over well. It can be football food, or it can be a very, very easy weeknight meal.<div><br /></div><div>It takes about five minutes to throw all this stuff in the crock pot. Doesn't get much better than that!<br /><div><br /></div><div>Barbecue Beef and Beans</div><div>1.5 pounds boneless beef round, cut into 1-inch cubes.</div><div>2 15 ounce cans butter beans, drained</div><div>2 15 ounce cans cannelini beans, drained</div><div>1 large onion, thinly sliced</div><div>2 large carrots, finely grated</div><div>1.5 cups hickory smoke barbecue sauce**</div><div>1/3 cup water</div><div>several dashes hot sauce (optional)</div><div><br /></div><div>Put everything in the crock pot, except about 1/2 cup of the barbecue sauce. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours. About half an hour before serving, stir in the rest of the barbecue sauce and some freshly ground pepper.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fill up a baked potato with it or serve it with some hot cornbread and a big side salad (just to satisfy your girly side, of course). My husband loved it, and my two year old gobbled it right up. You don't have to tell them how easy it was.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">** Almost every bottle of barbecue sauce on the shelves contains high fructose corn syrup. Despite the ads on tv, it's really, really not good for you. Read the labels and look for one without.</span></div><div><br /></div></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-67985625708645543952010-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:002010-01-19T10:18:20.345-08:00not so healthy<div style="text-align: center;">I am feeling sorry for myself today. Two sick kiddos and one sick mama. It could be worse, though, so I will try to think of some things to be thankful for. Right after I finish this cup of tea.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the meantime, I am going to share some random tips that have come in handy lately. First, my friends and I started doing that "biggest loser" challenge again this year. I am so glad, because I am not always a huge self motivator. I've lost five pounds! One thing that's helped me is <a href="http://caloriecount.about.com/">Calorie Count</a>, which is a free online tool where you track your food intake and activity and it calculates everything out for you. I've never been one for counting calories, but it was eye opening, to say the least. They have just about every activity on there from dusting to cooking indian bread on an outside stove (seriously, that is specific). And it motivates me to get moving. Yesterday was my first post-pregnancy run. It wasn't pretty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you're looking for a fun and delicious kid project, I am going to direct you to <a href="http://theordinaryhousewife.blogspot.com/2009/12/homemade-marshmallows.html">The Ordinary Housewife,</a> who made Alton Brown's homemade marshmallows. We decided to try it and they are GOOD. I don't usually like marshmallows, but these are really great. They make me want hot chocolate every day, so that's the downside. But it's a really delicious downside, no? And if you want to get crazy, you can melt chocolate chips and dip those marshmallows right in, and let your kids go crazy with the sprinkles. It's a fun treat without all the additives, and they make cute gifts.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lastly, let me tell you my latest way to get moving. Time is short these days, taken up most days by my three little darlings, so I have to be creative. Thankfully, my toddler LOVES dancing. And should I even admit that I let him bust a move to Rihanna? It gets us going together, and I feel a little bit better about those marshmallows. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-20220773720569425412010-01-14T19:00:00.000-08:002010-01-15T15:24:08.252-08:00a new take on tuna salad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlFKmTPN41JjYMcq6pOTSZWxw_mH943y3uzS8bIeteHjVgziPUSI0R86MVrh5VTckgiuvwkah1jsvAQkQQGJGyCiAFluMV3xDrk-CZMx5N0c6E9fliaiq3hMwFAKPKNjfgR6h8kY_DXY/s1600-h/DSC_0081.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlFKmTPN41JjYMcq6pOTSZWxw_mH943y3uzS8bIeteHjVgziPUSI0R86MVrh5VTckgiuvwkah1jsvAQkQQGJGyCiAFluMV3xDrk-CZMx5N0c6E9fliaiq3hMwFAKPKNjfgR6h8kY_DXY/s200/DSC_0081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426852021837533074" /></a>This is so good. I served it with wild rice and sauteed spinach for a nice, light dinner. It was a nice change of pace. And I just set a little tuna aside to make a plain ol' sandwich for my toddler* who probably wouldn't appreciate this particular change of pace. I was inspired by a recipe I saw in Real Simple. Try it, I think you'll like it.<div><br /></div><div>4 large tomatoes</div><div>2 cans albacore tuna, drained </div><div>2 tablespoons capers</div><div>1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped</div><div>1 large carrot, grated</div><div>juice from 1/2 lemon</div><div>1 tablespoon olive oil</div><div>salt and freshly ground pepper to taste</div><div><br /></div><div>Hollow out each tomato, and add the pulp to a bowl. Combine with the remaining ingredients and spoon mixture back into the tomatoes. You'll probably have some left over, and it keeps really well. Top mixed greens with it, eat it on crackers - I think you're going to like this one.</div><div>Plus, it looks cool.</div><div><br /></div><div>*mama note: grate a little carrot and cheddar into some tuna, mix with some reduced fat mayo, and make your little one a healthy melt. Mine never noticed the carrot, I promise. If he did, I'd be in trouble. No matter how many times I compare him to a bunny.</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-86086277794074090032010-01-07T14:00:00.000-08:002010-01-07T14:22:03.154-08:00breakfast sandwiches...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkCBcCwa8l08lLSgRKn75gmsc430QZdZUBSsL9KDDYA_j72JSdywBlShP3sFg9K5aSmdqiW6S0Dd1W0LywThIhLohQjA4qhFL1BVx0DJS9yy4E8XH8BsZXWdOdl4xtz_nTXsmZ4Fwr8w/s1600-h/DSC_0073.jpg"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';">... are one of my favorite ways to start my day. And they keep me full a lot longer than a bowl of cereal, which is good when you've got little guys running and crawling around, needing you most moments of the day. Plus it comes together in just a few minutes!</span></span><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkCBcCwa8l08lLSgRKn75gmsc430QZdZUBSsL9KDDYA_j72JSdywBlShP3sFg9K5aSmdqiW6S0Dd1W0LywThIhLohQjA4qhFL1BVx0DJS9yy4E8XH8BsZXWdOdl4xtz_nTXsmZ4Fwr8w/s320/DSC_0073.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424125557749329282" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px; " /></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here is one worth trying. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Bonus</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">: sneaking in an extra serving of vegetables for the day.<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I used cracked wheat sourdough, but use what you've got - don't forget your whole grains! If you have a toaster oven, top the bread with an ounce of reduced fat cheese. Right now I have havarti, and it is so good on this sandwich! If you don't have a toaster oven, just grate the cheese into your egg and throw your bread in the toaster. Now chop up one broccoli floret and microwave it for about 45 seconds to soften it. Scramble up an egg with the broccoli, and a little salt and pepper (and the cheese if that's how you're doing it). Now make yourself a little sandwich and enjoy! And feel good about it.</span></span></div></div></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-196278551883413802010-01-05T22:47:00.000-08:002010-01-05T23:08:00.278-08:00a public service announcement<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iu6bGOkCFNFqSQdb0OhZy_vYhTHzMNpvYl2BWwQh4srdt7K371O_JPm_nANlOFD-SCMzZKC1UpDAIce5X6LlEz-kJ7y7_E3QLk_yL5qUDHlHMRN8lkZXsmLNAL_XutGMCHMCcrWkmto/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iu6bGOkCFNFqSQdb0OhZy_vYhTHzMNpvYl2BWwQh4srdt7K371O_JPm_nANlOFD-SCMzZKC1UpDAIce5X6LlEz-kJ7y7_E3QLk_yL5qUDHlHMRN8lkZXsmLNAL_XutGMCHMCcrWkmto/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423519294314408642" /></a>First of all, I need to share with you how thankful I am for my latest step into the 21st century. Or maybe it's a step back in time, I'm not sure. Anyway, I had my groceries delivered yesterday. I never thought I would do it, but when you have three little kids, any spare moment to leave your house is not meant to be spent in the grocery store. Seriously. It was great - no impulse buys, plus I had to actually plan my meals for the week, and I could do it all in the comfort of my living room while watching bad tv.<div><br /></div><div>Okay, but here is the deal. They really break the prices down so you can see how much you're paying per pound or pint or whatever quantitative word pertains. I realize that you can find this information on most of the price tags at the store, but I don't usually pay much attention unless I am comparison shopping.</div><div><br /></div><div>So imagine my shock when I was buying some fresh herbs for a new recipe and I find that they actually cost $43 per pound. And that's <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">on sale</span>. Okay, so I only shelled out two bucks for them, but that amazed me, considering you can buy the plant for about a dollar and have yourself more than you could ever use for almost a year. I think I've found my new business.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, here is the lesson. 1. Have your groceries delivered. You deserve it.</div><div>And 2. Run to the nursery, pick out your favorite herbs, and get planting! (and sell them to some schmuck like me to really start rolling in the dough)</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-52596500241283306562010-01-01T22:38:00.001-08:002010-01-01T22:53:13.808-08:00welcome 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsp_bqzMTDi11svQRY_Ev56cifi1YkjgDibgCyabjq1M3auuvrFZ0AaVHwVX3z_d3I0Ok2d0Qr997yZHaxT4FPLyPnfEKpzFzo-Q2XuIlk0f_egGkeKCk5GuiBwM_DD0CtHgUSHofiCfo/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 123px; height: 93px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsp_bqzMTDi11svQRY_Ev56cifi1YkjgDibgCyabjq1M3auuvrFZ0AaVHwVX3z_d3I0Ok2d0Qr997yZHaxT4FPLyPnfEKpzFzo-Q2XuIlk0f_egGkeKCk5GuiBwM_DD0CtHgUSHofiCfo/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422031455039380642" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a crazy, wonderful year 2009 was! And I am always excited, if not a bit wistful, when a new one begins. Last January a few friends and I had a "Biggest Loser" competition to see who could lose the highest percentage of weight in 8 weeks. None of us were going for huge numbers, but wanted to drop some post-holiday pounds.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here we are in January again, and here I am seven weeks postpartum. I have a beautiful baby boy (actually I have three, but he is the newest) and 15 excess pounds to prove it. So, what better time to get some goals set for a healthy 2010?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am nursing, so I am not going to do any crazy dieting (not that I would anyway!). And I have three boys under the age of three so my workouts and the time I schedule them in will have to be creative, but I am ready to get this show on the road. Since it's been so long since I have been consistent with my blogging, I thought this would be a good way to kick start it and keep me accountable. Log my progress, how I stay active, what healthy (and hopefully tasty) meals I cook up. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And I want you to share your experiences, too! It doesn't have to be with weight loss... what are your goals for this year? Eat better? Exercise more? Kick a habit that's bogging you down? Read more? Train for an event? Spend more time with your kids? Learn to garden or speak another language or...? Fill me in! And if you want some support, let's do this together.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To a happy and healthy new year!</span></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-23357914744992501002009-10-13T07:43:00.001-07:002009-10-13T07:59:55.117-07:00my life now<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRDpxQyfNaxohZXkwDjIBGMt_dvOazsmIX69EwsDI-pV7yY04-ZfuHQrEnv30ODTuYlJcFeS9qAdOQHeduOTAOW0qPiS7rVrcH3JY9YuTVVj5Id503rmuZ_ok7wEGbIPx9WG7AU8LAK0o/s1600-h/DSC_0003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRDpxQyfNaxohZXkwDjIBGMt_dvOazsmIX69EwsDI-pV7yY04-ZfuHQrEnv30ODTuYlJcFeS9qAdOQHeduOTAOW0qPiS7rVrcH3JY9YuTVVj5Id503rmuZ_ok7wEGbIPx9WG7AU8LAK0o/s200/DSC_0003.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392099242413890306" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Thanks, <a href="http://thamesarino.blogspot.com/">Thamesarino</a>, for asking how things are! I have often thought I need to get back to posting, especially as fall rolls in and my desire to cook takes over.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Life has been busy! As you all know, we found out we are having a baby next month. The other news is that we adopted a beautiful baby boy in June, so days have been full as we adjust to having a newborn in the house again. We are going to be old pros come November! He is a wonderful, easy baby and we feel truly blessed. And before too long I am going to be back to pureeing baby food and filling my ice cube trays, so stayed tuned for such excitement.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">On the topic of being a healthy mama (though my pregnancy instincts have led me to eat more chocolate and butter than I can really justify), I pulled out my Sneaky Chef cookbook yesterday, as my toddler as developed a very specific palate that needs some expansion. Stay tuned for that, too!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In the mean time, want to try something that just exudes fall and is absolutely delicious? It's decadent, I warn you, but since the main ingredient is a vegetable, don't feel bad about the butter - it is soooooo worth it. Leave it to The Pioneer Woman to do squash right: </span><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/11/butternut_squash_puree_try_it_or_ill_deck_ya_/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Butternut Squash Puree.</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I hope you all are staying well this fall season - and I promise to whip up something tasty soon!</span></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-60832447853717104712009-07-21T08:34:00.000-07:002009-07-21T08:44:42.459-07:00heirloom tomatoes are amazing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xCRXE7Vtawlms91dkDEP2tPRpBZwmaSu5qR0kDl7Pwu8KR-WhKRTrGhqALSZVQWIcDgPr4rrCJOQcB8IWJobOi-cjtyCA7G5VVtL9tkf1bAfLzsTITuzrbRPAqLFfmrNBqDeYoa8nVM/s1600-h/DSC_0069.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xCRXE7Vtawlms91dkDEP2tPRpBZwmaSu5qR0kDl7Pwu8KR-WhKRTrGhqALSZVQWIcDgPr4rrCJOQcB8IWJobOi-cjtyCA7G5VVtL9tkf1bAfLzsTITuzrbRPAqLFfmrNBqDeYoa8nVM/s200/DSC_0069.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360939378093062386" /></a>This isn't really a recipe, so much as a hope to inspire. It is so simple and it has been my new addiction this summer when it's hot outside and I need something fresh and light. Or when I've eaten 12 brownies in a row and need to make myself feel better. <div><br /></div><div>If you haven't had heirloom tomatoes before, I really think you ought to try them. They are delicious - every one that I have had tastes like it came fresh from the garden, rather than the produce department. If you don't want to venture into that realm, you can use the tomatoes of your choice - no judgement.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's what you need:</div><div>2 large heirloom tomatoes</div><div>7-8 fresh basil leaves</div><div>1 tsp. olive oil</div><div>1 tsp. good balsalmic vinegar</div><div>kosher salt</div><div>freshly ground pepper</div><div><br /></div><div>Slice the tomatoes about 1/4" thick. Place evenly around your platter, along with the basil leaves. Sprinkle with salt and pepper (I like pepper, so I use kind of a lot). Drizzle with oil and vinegar. </div><div><br /></div><div>Last night I made this to go along with our barbecued chicken breasts and roasted red potatoes, and I let it sit out for about 30 minutes before dinner so the flavors could sort of meld. It was the perfect summer evening side. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, try it! And if you have some tomatoes starting to ripen in your garden, even better. Mmmmm, I think I know what I am having for lunch.</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-27475554042048693322009-06-17T14:44:00.000-07:002009-06-17T14:53:47.341-07:00simple summer vegetables<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRg0sJTuWZDsNjW1D5mcJklxttfNGrzl8IXhE6NLDihMoOjKdnDIJTmcl9AOj7PXAnsZzSsumcNcmXoW_oyjiyud-AYw47oAigy4NSoG23P3jGVE75WMXSzjJyZRBftDC2tABtSCdwnVc/s1600-h/DSC_0133.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRg0sJTuWZDsNjW1D5mcJklxttfNGrzl8IXhE6NLDihMoOjKdnDIJTmcl9AOj7PXAnsZzSsumcNcmXoW_oyjiyud-AYw47oAigy4NSoG23P3jGVE75WMXSzjJyZRBftDC2tABtSCdwnVc/s200/DSC_0133.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348416112958622514" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love simplicity. It usually provides the most pleasing results. Last night I was whipping up a pretty easy dinner - grilled chicken and flat bread, and decided I wanted vegetables instead of salad (we've been eating that a lot lately). This is a great recipe for you gardeners with an abundance of squash! Eat it as is, toss it with some pasta and parm, load up a baguette and broil it with some havarti or provolone - these roasted vegetables are so delicious and so easy, you're gonna love them as much as I do. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">you need</span>:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3 medium zucchini, thickly sliced</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced in half</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2 tablespoons olive oil</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">salt and pepper to taste</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Toss everything together in a pie plate. Bake at 450 degrees F for 20 minutes. Toss gently, and return to the oven for about 10-15 minutes. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Make it even simpler and do it in your toaster oven, like me. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">**For older babies, you can just do zucchini, blend it in the food processor, and mix it up with avocado and even a little wheat germ for a super nutritious meal!</span></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-39851829323378062812009-05-13T14:11:00.001-07:002009-05-13T14:21:52.851-07:00a new treat for the boy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYptFe52O81yTRvSjyyr9bxaypguGZt90R93BJGGOBRfhFuQGT0OYBsP5fQ3HkTwd_fI5dXog37fjGoedOaWXGAuFNzpL5Wt2avfXQTe_symdyrYBKbJjv6NSw8ln8AEd1RUqwkw85JbY/s1600-h/DSC_0012.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYptFe52O81yTRvSjyyr9bxaypguGZt90R93BJGGOBRfhFuQGT0OYBsP5fQ3HkTwd_fI5dXog37fjGoedOaWXGAuFNzpL5Wt2avfXQTe_symdyrYBKbJjv6NSw8ln8AEd1RUqwkw85JbY/s200/DSC_0012.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335419669086828242" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If there is one thing that I could get him to eat everyday, it's yogurt. Up until now, it's been Yo Baby, which he absolutely loves and I feel pretty good about. It's organic, so that's a plus. The drawbacks, two years into his yogurt eating, is that it's pretty pricey and has 13 grams of sugar per serving. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">So this week I tried something new. I bought <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">my</span></span> favorite yogurt, Nancy's Honey Yogurt. It's made with whole milk and has less than half of the sugar of other yogurts. It is not at all sweet, so for my little one, it needs a little doctoring.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">I add less than a teaspoon of blue agave syrup (use honey if you'd rather), and 3-4 large strawberries, chopped finely, to about 1/2 cup of yogurt. You can use any fruit your kiddo prefers. If they like yogurt, they are going to gobble it up, and it is sweet enough without being overly so, and has half the sugar of any yogurt you'll find on the shelf.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">Want to make it a meal or an extra special treat? Add some plain cheerios (I used the generic Trader Joe's brand). That is a favorite breakfast around here.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">Got any other mix in ideas - let me know!</span></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-20935657276618199382009-04-26T22:46:00.001-07:002009-04-26T22:54:00.063-07:00my new (old) love... and an explanation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmI5eItiLaop1YzSSobFX7Xib3m6IQ1i4mjOV4wq6TtwElacgx0jD8g6Letg-dKqq3QDM9M3l91Ks_FPg2jGeJ7GwfpHgaw4OcpBynkMeyleN91MvSGg4PxHjfAeOhmfQ5S1EASr9DwFE/s1600-h/Luna+Bar+Caramel+Nut+Brownie+150.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmI5eItiLaop1YzSSobFX7Xib3m6IQ1i4mjOV4wq6TtwElacgx0jD8g6Letg-dKqq3QDM9M3l91Ks_FPg2jGeJ7GwfpHgaw4OcpBynkMeyleN91MvSGg4PxHjfAeOhmfQ5S1EASr9DwFE/s200/Luna+Bar+Caramel+Nut+Brownie+150.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329243663694882466" /></a>I know I have been MIA for awhile... and I can finally explain. I have made three fully homemade meals in the last 7 weeks. Isn't that pathetic? Thank you, Lord, for the creative genius behind Trader Joe's and their frozen food section. Otherwise, I would be ridden with guilt.<div><br /></div><div>I am 11 weeks pregnant. And the thought of cooking has been, well... bleh. Thankfully, things are looking up. The heartburn has yet to die down, but the nausea is dwindling. Again, thanks Lord.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, enter my new (old) love. I am not a regular partaker of protein bars. But in my baby's interest, I picked up a few this week so that I am eating something besides fruit and noodles. And cereal. Tonight I opened up a Carmel Nut Brownie Luna bar. Oh heaven. Crispy, chocolatey goodness. With protein, folic acid, the whole nine yards. Everything good for the little one. And man, they are tasty.</div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-16302303119191290022009-04-06T20:18:00.000-07:002009-04-06T20:47:04.845-07:00healthy hobbies<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpxxDoPkXqp9KkZjyq85q5Eig0uNJQuC0s3X3n5CWvWQqxA5ohArn_mOwXKqDcNcaYdyfFozFE0EwZQq9bPvYp8bpkc2zrs7jYvq5aqeUXGecBBBkqE-Nz9CIun2aOJtCfWStvsUwQDU/s1600-h/DSC_0021.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpxxDoPkXqp9KkZjyq85q5Eig0uNJQuC0s3X3n5CWvWQqxA5ohArn_mOwXKqDcNcaYdyfFozFE0EwZQq9bPvYp8bpkc2zrs7jYvq5aqeUXGecBBBkqE-Nz9CIun2aOJtCfWStvsUwQDU/s200/DSC_0021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321784261168765778" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Spring is here. Finally. We have had consistent sunshine for three whole days here in the northwest - is that a record for April? And for those three days, I have been to the nursery, prepping my garden, and getting my containers ready.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I have never ever been into gardening. I definitely wouldn't say I have a green thumb. But last year I decided to try my hand at a few flowers, some herbs and a tomato plant. I was pretty successful. I give some of the credit to a book I picked up, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/You-Grow-Girl-Groundbreaking-Gardening/dp/0743270142"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">You Grow Girl</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">, which is also an extensive </span><a href="http://www.yougrowgirl.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">gardening blog</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">. Totally inspirational!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">This year I am stepping it up a notch: strawberries, beets, zucchini and carrots. We'll see what happens! I'll try to keep you updated - maybe I'll even incorporate some of my goods into some recipes.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Being healthy extends beyond diet and exercise. How do you unwind? Express creativity?Get involved in the world around you? Are you a knitter? A seamstress? A cook or a baker? Do you teach classes, volunteer, try to learn something new on a regular basis? I want to hear from you and what keeps you going.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">And if you want a little more gardening inspiration, you can also check out the </span><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeandgarden/2009/02/build-your-own-raised-flowervegetable-bed/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Pioneer Woman</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">... she is good at giving you the lowdown on the basics. Growing stuff is easy - and it's so fun to watch it happen!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LGzWOQrzoA0aHrP030WtI1KbtKNNG6ZGNqOJskPbukxwg27YBzdu6QjtJowCRI4b7YBvW1gHAx5FAW0QupN5E-BtJh1OZ_goFrDuASLxnAPFW9BLypKnbdrOyZj0mjCMTv_CiKIo9GI/s1600-h/DSC_0024.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LGzWOQrzoA0aHrP030WtI1KbtKNNG6ZGNqOJskPbukxwg27YBzdu6QjtJowCRI4b7YBvW1gHAx5FAW0QupN5E-BtJh1OZ_goFrDuASLxnAPFW9BLypKnbdrOyZj0mjCMTv_CiKIo9GI/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321787870362600002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px; " /></a></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1257079853491754421.post-86941491653294237472009-03-31T13:09:00.001-07:002009-03-31T19:54:12.202-07:00helpful articlesWondering what to eat when you're out an about? I read these articles online today and found them pretty helpful:<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://health.msn.com/nutrition/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100235019&GT1=31036">America's 10 Best Fast Food Restaurants</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://health.msn.com/nutrition/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100235017&GT1=31036">The 15 Worst</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://health.yahoo.com/experts/healthieryou/9219/best-foods-for-a-flat-belly/">Foods for a Flat Belly</a></div>c http://www.blogger.com/profile/02291508762879164365noreply@blogger.com1