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Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Backyard Cherry Cobbler!


We finally got around to our cherry cobbler.   Oh my, is it delicious!  We used this recipe, and just alternated in margarine and soy milk.





Nothing says summer like fresh fruit.  And when it comes from your backyard, from a tree you've been watching for months just praying for a little berry - well, it's extra special.

Try to pick your own fruit, or buy it from the farmer's market, and make a nice summer dessert today!  Next on my list - cherry tart!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Breakfast





Ummmmm, a raw breakfast! Carrots, spinach, blueberries, banana, apple, and pear. If that doesn't wake you up, I don't know what will!

Thanks, twink, for the inspiration. I've been lacking...
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Tacos and Cherries


Last night Matt and I decided to try tacos.  Usually I just use beans, but craving something more "meaty", the hubby wanted to try faux meat.  So we did.  Turned out pretty great.

We just started out by sauteing onions, red pepper, and eventually the meat.  Then added it to a whole wheat soft taco along with salsa, guacamole, and tomatoes.  TADA!  We were in a hurry, and I see where we will get more creative, but it was a fun start!

After dinner we decided to pick cherries from the tree in our backyard.  So much fun!  Matt hoisted me on his shoulders and I dropped the occasional fruit on his head.  Whoopsie!

Then we spent the rest of the evening pitting the cherries for tonight's dessert.  Can't wait!  Isn't summer so much fun!?!?



Happy summer!!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Snuggle Bugs

Yes, I blog a lot about Patton. I can't help it; he's just so darn lovable.

The thing about Patton is he thinks he's still a puppy. And yes, he gets away with just about everything. We started off with a rule that he couldn't get on the sofa or bed. Well, life's just too short. He's a snuggle bug, and so are we, so now we allow him up on the sofa or bed only if he's with us.



He's also been having light tremors, which seem to be getting much better with medication, but that also changed things around here. If he wants to snuggle, by golly he's gonna snuggle.

Matt leaves for work early, and like clockwork, Pookie jumps up in bed with me.



In the past, when I've been ill, he's stayed in bed with me all day. He knows to give me space, but will lift his head and check on me. The best love bug ever.

And of course, every day when Matt gets home from work, he has to climb on the sofa. He loves his daddy!! During our Sunday marathon of Two and a Half Men, Puppin and Papa snoodle:



I caught Papa Bear asleep sitting up. They are stinking cute.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The Traveling Veganista


Sorry I haven't posted in a while!  We have been traveling across Europe :)  

I thought I would use this post to talk about how to eat with such a strict diet when you're on vacay.  True, a lot of places cater to certain diets.  Especially in the states where you speak the same language.  However, it's a little more difficult when you speak an entirely different language.  Not to mention, Europe is known for its plethora of meat dishes.  When there is a "vegetarian" dish, it probably has seafood and/or diary included.

In the states, it's completely acceptable to ask for "no cheese" or "no meat".  When you don't speak, for example, French, it's a little difficult to ask the waiter for such requests.  Navigating the menu can be a bit daunting, but bringing along a cheat sheet/book with you to restaurants can make all the difference.

But, if you're with good friends, like I was, they'll keep an eye out for acceptable things on menus.  Also, try looking for ethnic cuisine.  Middle Eastern, Asian, and Mediterranean foods are typically more vegan friendly than others.  

Be warned - there may be unintentional slip ups.  For example, one night I dug into a spring roll assuming it was vegetarian.  Oh no, there was pork.  So what do I do?  Spit it out?  I don't think so.  I swallowed my pride, and the first bit of meat I've had in god knows how long, and decided to be a lot more careful before chowing down.

Just know, it is possible to stick to your diet on vacation.  Bringing your own snacks, helpful travel mates, and finding ethnic restaurants can be lifesavers.  

Happy traveling!

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