Vegan Dinner from Appetite for Reduction

Post Punk Kitchen

I feel like this is kind of cheating, but this was such a yummy meal from this amazing cookbook that I own called Appetite for Reduction by Isa Chandra Moskowitz that I had to post it.

I made the Butternut Coconut Rice (pages 80 - 81), Pineapple Collards (page 93) and Broiled Blackened Tofu (pages 147 - 148). All of it was really yummy, even though I messed up the rice. It's hard to cook while two people are washing dishes, there's a big dog that keeps tripping you and two little girls running around, screaming, and playing with paint. It's always craziness here at the house.

Day 13 Blog Challenge - Regret

31 Day Blog Challenge - March

 

Regret - "to feel sorrow or remorse"

I suppose there are a few things I regret, but I try not to. The reason for this is because pretty much all the events and experiences that have taken place in my life are what have lead me to this point. I may not have my house or my dream career, but I have something much more important. My family, for one. 

And I've learned a lot. 

For example, I used to want so much material possessions, but after going a couple years learning to go without (due to a lack of funds) I realized how unimportant those things are and how to enjoy the simple things in life.

My one real regret is that I stopped exercising on a regular basis. I used to be a lot thinner, but more importantly I used to be a lot healthier! 

I used to workout almost daily, and sometimes twice a day. I ate a lot better, and enjoyed it. 

Then, I sunk into a depression. I don't like making excuses for things, but that was a difficult time in my life. I felt like things would never be normal again, and I was doomed for a life of misery (pretty lame, but like I said - that experience taught me a lot). 

But it was during that depression that I just couldn't stand the idea of doing anything that I didn't absolutely have to (like care for my daughter, complete school work, go to work). So exercising got the boot, and as time has passed my depression has gotten better but my body took a lot of stress. 

I gained a bunch of weight, my muscles have gone to mush, and I feel like crap all the time. 

I'm so out of shape I don't even know where to start! Like an idiot, I tried to jump right back in where I left off. Clearly that didn't work out. I have to start all over again, from the beginning! 

But yeah, that's my biggest regret. Letting myself get so out of shape. The worst part is, I always thought I was fat! I may never have been "skinny" but I was never fat. And my biceps were huge!

Now I get to lose weight all over again! I've already been there, done that. I know what works and what doesn't. I know how to keep it off - don't stop exercising! And now I might even appreciate my health more than my "ideal" weight.

What do you regret?

Check out my previous challenges:
Day 1 - Portrait
Day 2 - Favourite Quote
Day 3 - What Makes Me Happy
Day 4 - Best Childhood Memory
Day 5 - Favourite Movies I Never Get Sick Of
Day 6 - Random Acts of Kindness
Day 7 - My Dream Job

Day 8 - Pet Peeves

Day 9 - What's on Your Life List?
Day 10 - Daily Routine 
Day 11 - The Last Books I've Read
Day 12 - Something I Miss 

Thanks, 

Meatless Monday - Baked Pasta

I was really excited to have lasagna. I bought all the ingredients I wanted to put into my lasagna, except for the lasagna noodles because I thought we had some. We didn't, so I used penne instead.

I figured the shape of the pasta wasn't a big deal. It still tasted the same as my lasagna normally does.

Ingredients:

• 1 Package of firm tofu
• 3 Teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small sized onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup chopped mushroom
• 1/2 cup frozen spinach
• 1 package of penne
• Salt and pepper. Feel free to add any herbs and spices you like.

Directions:

1. Cook the penne according to the directions on the package. Once it's cooked set it aside. 
2. Heat the oil in a large pan for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and onions, cook until soft for another five minutes. Then add the chopped mushrooms, cook for another five minutes. Pour the can of tomato sauce in the pan, and set aside.
3. Thaw out your spinach. Then mash the tofu and spinach together. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the tomato sauce mixture in the bottom of your baking pan, spreading it evenly. Top it with the penne noodles, followed by the tofu mixture. Then add another layer of sauce, penne, and tofu. Top it off with the last layer of tomato sauce and bake for 30 minutes.

Again, this was a very simple meal to make, and very inexpensive!

Pasta = $2.00

Tofu = $1.00

Tomato Sauce = $1.00

Spinach (used about 1/6 of the package which was $3.00) = $0.50

Mushrooms (was $2 for package, used half) = $1.00

Onions and garlic = probably less than $0.20

Total = $5.70 to feed a family of five!

I'm in the process of trying to eat better, and do my part for the planet. I know that eating a vegan diet is healthier and more eco-friendly, but I've always had a difficult time switching to a complete vegan diet. The reasons for that are, 1. I hate cooking, and 2. I don't like beans. Lame excuses, I know, but I figure once I start eating more and more vegan foods, I'll just one day stop eating animals and animal by-products. 

Thanks, 

Week In Review - Family Day and Too Much Stress

 

Family Day - Indoor Playground!

 

Week In Review:

It's Friday everyone! It's the weekend, and my daughter is super excited to be able to stay home and play with her mommy (me! Aren't I a lucky duck?).

Home life is still tense right now. There's a lot on my mind; school, my living situation, money, and work. I feel bad because I haven't had much time to blog and work on my Etsy shop this week, but I enjoy this online life so I keep up with it as much as I can. 

 

Personal Life:

Parenting - My patience has been really short lately. With all this added tension in the house and the silent arguments, my mind hasn't been in the right place. I feel awful for not being mentally here right now for Sidney but my stress levels are about to explode right through the roof.  

We did go out for family day though. We went to Funworx, which is an indoor playground. It was so busy there! Kids on top of kids. Seriously, you could barely get around the place without knocking into a bunch of people, but Sidney and her cousin Faith had a lot of fun.

Growth - My entire life feels like it's on hold right now. Where did the week go? Honestly, I haven't done anything lately...

Health - My goal for waking up earlier hasn't been working out too well. Instead I feel like I just want to sleep forever, and ever, and ever. 

Professional:

Work - I'm still applying to a bunch of different places. I haven't gotten one single call back though. It is a bit discouraging, but what other options do I have? I need to find a job. 

My college funding application is almost complete! I just have to send in a couple more bits of information and off it will go. How exciting is that? Very!

Etsy - Little Shop of Hemp made it's first sale this week! A custom key chain. I was beginning to think my hemp store was a waste of time and money, but that one sale has encouraged me to keep trying. Besides, I enjoy making hemp jewelry.

As for Little Shop of Treasures, no sales this week. I do have some new items I need to post though. I'll get around to it soon. Been taking a mental health break this week. I have been approved for the Bloomin Earth festival though! In two months time I have to be all ready to set up a booth and sell some awesome vintage treasures. This will be my first sale, and I'm really nervous. That's why I've been doing a ton of research.

Writing - I've been feeling uninspired lately, so instead of writing much I have been reading a ton! Magazine articles, ebooks, blogs and novels. Just filling my brain with other people's work. Of course my journal has been getting a lot of attention this week, I should call it the Whine Diaries. 

I hope everyone's week has been going better than mine! Sorry for the pity-party-post, but that's all I have to say this week - wah, wah, wah. 

Thanks, 

My Next Step - Waking Up Earlier

My wake up time goal.

Wake Up Earlier

I can proudly say that I have been getting my 8 cups of water for the past week. Simply by keeping my large water bottle near me at all times has proved to be the best solution for this problem. 

It's kind of motivating to accomplish a goal, even a simple one such as drinking enough water. I feel more confident in my next step to a healthier, happier and productive lifestyle which is...

Waking up early.

Time and time again I have read so many amazing benefits to waking up early. It has proven to be a very difficult goal me for because I'm the type of person who stays up late. In fact it's 11:30 p.m. right now and I don't feel tired.

During the week when Sidney has to go to school we wake up at 8:30 a.m. giving ourselves less than half an hour to get ready. That's not a lot of time and usually involves a lot of rushing around like a maniac. Not the best way to start the day, right? Talk about a stressful beginning. Plus, I'm just a complete grouch in the mornings. I can honestly say that I'm the one that everyone in my family is scared to wake up. Pretty sure Sidney's taking after me.

I'm hoping that in the future I will willingly wake up at 6 a.m., or even 5 a.m., but I know that is not realistic for the time being. Instead my goal is to wake up at 8 a.m. sharp. Without hitting snooze! And the kicker - I want to do this on weekends, too (as of right now my weekend wake-up time? 10 a.m.!)!

I'm starting tomorrow. I'm not going to start a movie right now. I'm not going to read an entire novel right now. I'm not even going to sign into Etsy! After this post it's bed time. 

Okay, I might read for a little while... But for no more than an hour! Then it's bed time. Besides, once I reach my wake up time goal of 6a.m. I can look forward to watching the sunrise.

Are you a morning person? Or a night owl? 

Good night, 

Cole

Why Water Is Important and How I'm Making Sure to Get Enough

I’m in the process of making a lot of changes, so in order not to overwhelm myself I’ve decided to take small steps when it comes to my poor eating habits. After all, I want this to be a life lasting change.

I’m not going to weigh myself, measure myself or stress out over losing weight. This isn’t about losing weight (although I wouldn’t mind).

I’m simply going to start taking better care of myself. Making sure to eat food that is good for me, that energizes me and nourishes me. I know I need to cut back on eating junk food, to stop eating out and to start moving more.

In order to keep strong and motivated I have to remind myself that the beauty of being human is that we can change the way we live at any time. We just need to stop procrastinating and do it.

Drink More Water

The first step to becoming healthier is probably the most important one, and the easiest; drink more water.

Of course I know how important water is for my health. Doesn’t every body? But like a lot of other people I know for a fact that I don’t drink enough. And as part of my whole fixing my life thing I figured health is a big part of that.

We all know water is vital to our health, but sometimes it helps to stop for a minute and remind ourselves why.

Why Water is Awesome

• It carries nutrients throughout the body, and flushes out toxins.
• It helps with digestion and keeps you “regular.”
• By drinking more water you’re guaranteed to cut back on unhealthy drinks like pop, energy drinks, coffee, alcohol and juice.
• You save money by drinking more water instead of other drinks.
• It has no calories and acts as a food suppressant by making you feel fuller.
• It increases your energy, makes you more alert and helps you focus easier by hydrating your brain.
• It’s the best anti-aging solution because it helps your skin stay soft and supple, helps clear up acne and gives you a healthy glow.
• It helps get rid of headaches, again with the hydrating the brain! 
• It lubricates your joints and helps keep muscles more elastic decreasing the risk of cramps and sprains.

Tips For Getting Enough Water 

I don’t know about you, but I know that I often don’t drink water because it’s not easily available like a can of coke or juice box. Especially when the dishes are dirty, and you’re too lazy to wash a glass out (does this happen to anyone else? Or am I just a slob?). Well, like with anything else, drinking water is a habit that can be formed. You just need to know what will work for your. 

• Some people prefer buying bottled water because then it’s easily accessible. But I know that bottled water isn’t so great for the environment and I like to try to do my small parts. That’s why I bought a water bottle from the dollar store. I keep it close by and I know that if I drink a full bottle two times throughout the day then I have managed to get enough water.
• Or there are times when I want something with a little flavour. Water can be pretty bland at times. Making your own flavoured water is easy, yummy and can be fun, too. You can add lemon, lime, cucumbers, berries, mint leaves, green tea bag, watermelon or anything else that sounds good to you. My favourite mixes are green tea with lemon, or cucumber and lime. If you really want to have juice, dilute it with water. 
• When we had a water cooler in the kitchen I noticed I was always drinking water. Since we don’t have one any more we keep a jug in the fridge because cold water is just more refreshing compared to right out of the tap. You can by filters, spring water or whichever you like if that’s your thing. Personally I don’t mind tap water.
• Always have a glass of water with your meals. I used to always have a diet coke with my dinner, even though I know that coke (especially diet coke) is not good for you. Now I make sure to have water. I even put the water jug on the table for easy refills.

Currently I’m not drinking enough water. Well, actually I’ve done pretty good over the weekend, but it’s not a habit yet. These are just some tips that I’ve noticed are working for me so far.

It’s crazy how something like getting enough water can feel like such a big ordeal. You’d think it would just be second nature already. Ah well, better late than never, right?

So, do you feel you get enough water? And what tips do you have for drinking more water?

Thanks,

Make Yourself Happy, Especially When You Don't Want To

Be Happy and Smile!

So I was sitting around this morning feeling like a loser. I checked my Etsy shop, blog, Hotmail and played around on Pinterest. I knew I had some stuff I needed to get done but I could do it later. 

Then it finally dawned on me. There I was procrastinating again and feeling miserable with myself for it. But I just couldn't motivate myself to get off my butt and away from the computer and all I was doing was staring at it.

That's when I decided to open a new tab and Googled "how to make yourself happy." Weird, I know, but sometimes I need a little inspiration. 

And this is what I did:

1. I straightened my hair, washed my face and put on a little bit of make-up. At least then I didn't feel like a complete dirt-bag anymore.
2. I threw in a load of laundry to feel productive.
3. Grabbed my purse, went out and mailed an Etsy order.
4. Bought a coffee because coffee tastes awesome and makes me happy.
5. Then I went for a nice long walk around Riverside park. I allowed myself to forget about all the negative things in my life and forced myself to feel grateful for what I have. 
6. I even forced myself to smile the entire time. It felt very forced and very weird at first, but eventually I didn't have to force it so much.

And to be honest, I feel better now. I got my work out, sat down and got some stuff done! 

Sometimes you just have to get up and do something else in order to be able to get your work done. Sitting in front of my computer screen wasn't forcing me to work. It was just making me miserable. By taking an hour to do other things I can now concentrate.

I'll have to do this more often.

Thanks,

Life Makeover

I’m in the process of rebuilding myself.  

I want to be healthier,

Fitter,

Calmer.

I want to be happier,

Optimistic,

Positive.

I want to simplify,
Organize,
Clean.

 

I want to be at peace with me,

My life,

My surroundings.

The truth is, I am a very negative person. I stress myself out over everything. I don’t know how to relax or enjoy myself. Worst of all, I forgot how to live in the moment.

In order to fully enjoy my life, and to teach my daughter to be a happy and good person, I know that I need a complete life makeover.

It’s difficult, and it’s tiring. And some days all I want to do is crawl deep under my covers and sleep, but I know that when I wake up I will still have the same problems (probably more) and the only difference will be missing out on the good things that do happen.

So obviously there are some changes that need to happen.

Things I want to change (which is everything) include:

• Money and Finances
• Career and Work
• Relationships
• Health (Mind and Body)
• Optimism and Gratitude

I guess for myself a big part of parenting involves the morals and lessons you teach your children.

Since children mostly learn from example it’s really important to me that I become a better role model. It’s not like I let my child watch R rated movies and play with matches, but I do let her hear me talk negatively, eat junk food and watch too much television. 

I don’t want her to pick up my bad habits. Like every parent, I want what is best for her. 

And for unexplainable reasons I feel like this is the year where I finally settle into my own skin, and become the person I always wanted to be. In the process I will also help my daughter become a better person, too.

Thanks,

Smoothies - Delicious and Nutritious

Fruity Tofu Smoothie

 

Smoothies, Our Favourite Snack

I love them, Sid loves them and they are healthy, nutritious and delicious!

Here are some of our favourite smoothie recipes:

Strawberry Banana

• 2 cups strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup of orange juice
• 1/2 cup milk (soy is our smoothie go-to milk)
• 1/4 cup dry oats
• 1 tsp ground flaxseeds

Very Berry

• 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 banana
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 tsp ground flaxseeds

Fruity Tofu

• 1 cup frozen mixed fruits (I like the one with peaches, mango and strawberry!)
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup silken tofu
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 2 tbsp liquid honey
• 1 banana
• 1 tsp ground flaxseeds

And obviously, all you do is throw the ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth!

Flaxseeds are like a miracle food! They are full of omega-3s, you know, those good fats that are heart-healthy. Flaxseeds also have lots of fiber and lignans which have antioxidant qualities. They supposedly help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. That's why I always put at least 1 teaspoon in my smoothies. I also sprinkle them on cereal, in oatmeal, throw some in my baked goods, pancake mix... I could go on and on.

 

What's your favourite smoothie recipe?

 

Thanks,

Delicious Stew Recipe from "Vegan Lunch Box"

Healthy Simple Recipe For Vegan Stew

One of my favourite vegan fall dishes is from the awesome book Vegan Lunch Boxes: Around the World by Jennifer McCann. I call it butternut squash stew, and changed a few of the ingredients around to my liking, but this is what Jennifer McCann calls it and her recipe:

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Moroccan Tangine

Ingredients:

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, peeled, halved, and cut into half-rings
• 1/2 medium yellow, orange and red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 to 7 cups)
• 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1/2 golden or regular raisins
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Measure out all the spices into one small dish and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, about 7 minutes (adjust the heat as needed to keep them from browning). Add the bell peppers and all the spices and cook, stirring, for another minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes with all their juices, the butternut squash and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and summer, covered, for 20 minutes or until squash is almost tender.
4. Add the chickpeas, zucchini, and raisins and continue to simmer, covered, for another 10 minutes, or until squash is tender. Season with salt. Garnish each serving with parsley just before serving." - Taken from pages 97 - 98 from Vegan Lunch Box Around the World by Jennifer McCann.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now, I love this recipe just as it is! However, one day I decided to play around and added diced potatoes and carrots, putting them in when the squash goes in. I also took out the peppers because I like peppers fresh, not cooked, but that's just my preference.

In the book, McCann suggests serving it over couscous or quinoa. I also enjoy it over basmati rice.

I've served this particular meal to plenty of my friends and family and so far only my mom didn't like it, but she's pretty picky when it comes to food.

So, there it is! My favourite fall dish. And surprisingly easy to make! It seems like it would be a lot of work because of the lengthy ingredient list, but it's mostly spices, a few cans and then only a few vegetables that need to be prepared. Best part is, this makes a huge amount and can be freezed for a future meal!

Thanks, 

You can find Jennifer McCann's blog Vegan Lunch Box HERE!!

Happy New Year! 2013

Happy New Year!

It's officially 2013 today! Which means it's time to reflect on the year that has passed and plan for the year ahead.

Just the other day I was thinking to myself, "How would I rate this year? Good, or bad?"

Because every year I either title it as a year that was overall a good year, or a not so good year. So of course my mind started racing. Is a year considered good if more good moments happened? And vice-versa? Is it based on how many good things have happened over bad things? Can one good moment outweigh several bad moments? How do you tell if a moment is bad or good?

Then I thought to myself, how can an entire year be good or bad? There is no such thing as a good or bad year.

I had to stop myself from thinking into this too much, because it's just one of those things that doesn't actually have a real answer.

I did end up reflecting on certain things that have taken place in my life over the past year that have shaped me into a better person, or lead me in a better direction. I feel as if I am finally becoming the person I was always meant to be. Truthfully, I think this is happening because of all my "failures." Like having to move out of our apartment, the job hopping, having to wait to go to college, etc.

It's almost like, when there's nothing to lose you feel more confident in chasing your dreams.

And that's what 2013 has in store for me.

I'm forcing myself to be brave, to try new things, new adventures and to swallow my fear of failing and just go for it! In fact, I've already started this in the past couple of months.

In 2012:

• Graduated high school.
• I started my first blog.
• Submitted a short story for a contest (never heard back, but the point is I sent it!)
• Opened an Etsy shop.
• Started being creative again.

My 2013 Goals:

Personal:

Health - Over a year and a half ago I was a much healthier and fitter person. I ate really good, exercised routinely and took care of myself. I don't have any good excuses for why I let myself slide back into bad habits (eating out a lot, being lazy), other than it was a rough couple of years financially. So this year I want to make a conscious effort to lose weight and get in shape.

Parenting - I used to do a lot more with Sidney. We were always going out and doing things but in the past few months we haven't been until just recently. Partly because I was working a lot before, and then when I wasn't working we didn't have much money. Since we've been busy most days over winter break, it's reminded me how much fun going out is, and that yes it's worth the extra effort and money. Also that there are tons of stuff to do that is free, or very inexpensive. So in 2013 I want to do more, to go out more and be a better, funner parent.

Growth - I want to simplify my life. Declutter my belongings, re-organize my room and start practicing mindfulness. I feel like this will help me to grow as a person. I'm also doing The Magic by Rhonda Byrne, but instead of blogging about it I'm just keeping a journal for now. There's also a course called Seven Paths to Freedom by Curtis Rivers I want to follow as well, maybe after I have completed The Magic.

Professional:

Blog - I would really like to expand my blog and make it better. It's been a good experience so far and I'm enjoying it a lot. I have a lot of ideas I want to do. Add recipes, crafts, maybe even do a series of interviews with other teen moms. I have a feeling this will be a good year for my blog.

Etsy - I opened my vintage shop on Etsy in October and since then have already made 13 sales. I am having so much fun on Etsy and it's proving to be a profitable venture. I have a lot of hobbies and I hope to turn some of them into Etsy shops as well. In fact, I'm working on a new shop right now and will be selling hemp jewelry. I hope to open it in about two weeks. I might even look into participating in craft shows.

Writing - Writing is a passion of mine. I don't put as much time into it as I would like to, or should, but my blog has been helping me get back into the habit of writing every day. For as long as I can remember I wanted to be a novelist. And for the past five years I have been kicking around this one story idea but have been too scared to write it. I've always just thought that I had to write it perfect so that others would enjoy it. Now I've decided to just write it for myself, the way it should be. This year I want to at least start my novel.

College - Once winter break is over and Sidney goes back to school next week I have to go find out about funding and apply for college. If everything works out, and it should, I will be attending college (finally!) this fall! This is huge for me.

Work - Again, once winter break is over I need to start looking for a part time job to help bring in some money. Unfortunately there aren't too many places hiring but I feel confident I will find something within the month.

So that's it. My plans/goals for 2013.

What resolutions or goals have you made for 2013?

Thanks,

Friday Fitness - New Year Resolutions and Bad Eating Habits

Well it's December 21, 2012 and the world hasn't ended (obviously). But we already knew everything would be fine, right?

With Christmas just a few more days away our house is filling up with food and presents, and our freezer is filling up with baked goods (mmm, banana bread!). I've never been one to "deprive" myself on holidays, or any other day actually, but I know that once it's the New Year it will be time to make some resolutions, or goals I should say.

Every year my resolutions are quite similar: lose weight, get organized, make more money blah blah blah. And even though my "goals" are usually achieved it's never for very long. I can manage to lose weight, but I can't manage to keep it off. I can manage to get things organized, but I can't manage to stay organized. I can manage to make more money, at least for a little while - until I get laid off, or end up quitting. 

I guess that means I should be rethinking my resolutions (or goals). I know now that losing weight isn't an issue. Instead I need to focus more on being healthy.

But for some people, like myself, it feels so difficult when in reality it isn't. I know that eating fast food is a no-no. That you need regular exercise; a combination or cardio, strength training and stretching to be healthy. I know which foods are good and which ones should be avoided. Don't we all? I mean really, it's not that complicated.

What I lack is self control. When I really want fries it consumes me. If I get the idea of chocolate in my head it will drive me insane until I finally get it. My food cravings can last a week or more.

I have struggled with maintaining a healthy weight for as long as I can remember. And I actually believe I may be addicted to food, and eating. I'm an emotional eater. I eat when I'm bored. I make plans to go out to eat with my friends instead of other activities. Life isn't about eating.

One of my New Year's resolutions will be to gain a better relationship with food, and to try and break my bad eating habits.

Thanks,
Cole

Five Things Freegan Can Teach Us

 

What is a Freegan?

If you know what the word "freegan" means I'm sure you have an opinion on it. If you haven't heard about it let me explain. The word freegan comes from the two words free and vegan. Someone who considers themselves a freegan is typically a vegan (but not always), who refuses to purchase most of their things, opting for taking things out of the trash or receiving it for free.

Now I'm sure you're thinking "take it out of the trash?" Yes, freegans typically dig through trash cans, dumpster dive and rummage through garbage to find food, clothing, toys, housewares, books, furniture and basically everything else a person needs and wants. 

Why do they do this? 

Surprisingly, not for the reason a lot of people think. Whereas a lot of freegans are by no means rich, that's not the reason they prefer reusing other people's "garbage". Freegans are also usually not rich by choice, believing they shouldn't have to work most of their lives for material possessions instead of personal freedom. Freegans believe that mass production of products and food has been lead by greed, causing environmental harm, abuse of humans and other animals. Sweat shops, animal testing, pollution, deforestation - for what? Corporate greed. 

By reusing things that are still useful we can hopefully have a positive impact on our world.

Why You May Not Want To:

For a lot of people, digging around in other people's garbage is something they would never do for many reasons such as:

• embarrassment, 
• fear of germs, 
• potential health risks 
• and also, not surprisingly, laziness 
• and preference of owning new things. 

Don't worry, if you were thinking the same thing for yourself you're not alone. 

There are a lot of things we can learn from a freegan lifestyle, though.

1. Don't Waste Food:

I don't blame you for being skeptical about eating food that's been thrown out, but the truth is a lot of people, restaurants and stores throw out food that is still good instead of donating it to the less fortunate or consuming it themselves. What can you do about it? Not waste food yourself. Of course, animal products such as meat, dairy and eggs are never something you should risk eating after the expiration date (probably why most freegans are vegans!), but fruits and vegetables are some of the most wasted foods! 

Limp celery, lettuce, peppers or other vegetables? Try cutting them up and placing them in a bowl of water in the fridge. By the next day they'll be perfectly firm again and ready to eat. 

Bruised apples, bananas, pears or other fruit? Google recipes online to find out how to make your own pies, breads and muffins, jams or how to can food. Recently I made grapefruit jam with some old grapefruits that were almost destined for the compost, but who knew you could make jam with them? 

A lot of food can also be frozen, and if all is lost and there is no way you would want to eat it, compost it.

2. Don't Throw Away Clothes:

A lot of people will throw away clothing once it's ripped, stained or no longer wanted. Obviously, if it's still in good condition donating it is the best option, but if it's stained or ripped there are other things you can do with it. 

Small tears in seams or in unnoticeable places can be sewn, or patched. If you know you'll never wear it again because the stain or rip is too noticeable you can tear them up for rags or make new things out of it (i.e. doll clothes, shopping bags). If you're not crafty, there are plenty of people who are who would love to use up your old scraps! 

3. Electronics:

There are now a lot of places that accept old electronics that no longer work, so looking these up is a great idea. If it does still work, no matter how old it is thrift stores will always take them and believe it or not there are people out there who would love that old radio from the 1980's that you hate. Antique electronics are highly valuable, so there's an option as well.

Some people are great at fixing things up, or need the parts, too.

4. Furniture:

Again, donate! If you don't think it's worth donating, try giving it away. Some people want an old couch for their garage, cottage or rec room. Or maybe someone is looking for something vintage that they can fix up. A lot of people are into that sort of thing. Never just assume that your old furniture is unwanted by everyone just because it's unwanted by you. Or if it's just the fabric you can get it reupholstered. 

5. Everything Else:

Books, CDs, movies, picture frames, crafts supplies, pet supplies, jewelry, housewares, everything can either be donated, sold or given away. There are people who love old items: to collect, to make things with, to fix up and sell. You could always fix them up and sell them, too.

Sites like Kijiji, Ebay and Craigslist are perfect places to sell things you no longer want. Freecycle.org  is a site where people give things away, or ask for things for free. Yard sales are always an option and places like thrift stores and charities are always looking for donations. So, please, even if we can't fathom living a freegan lifestyle, there's a lot we can learn from it.

Thanks,

The Best Banana Bread

Our Christmas Breakfast

 

Banana Bread Recipe

Every holiday I make banana bread the night before, for breakfast. 

Three reasons why:

1) It's easy and mess free, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the day.

2) It's filling, healthy and yet it's light enough that you can still enjoy all the holiday goodies throughout the rest of the day.

3) It's delicious of course!

My favourite banana bread recipe of all time is from the cookbook Vegan Planet by Robin Robertson. 

And even thought it's a vegan recipe, the banana bread is still delicious! In fact, my friends and family agree - vegan or not. 

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 medium very ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup soy milk
• 1/4 cup corn oil
• 3/4 cup sugar or natural sweetener
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9x5 pan.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt.
3. In a food processor, combine bananas, soy milk, corn oil, sugar and vanilla and process until smooth. Add to the flour mixture and mix well, then transfer it to the prepared pan.
4. Bake on the center oven rack until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 50 to 60 minutes. Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack before removing from the pan and slicing. 

Makes 1 loaf.

Robin Robertson also adds 3/4 cup chopped peanuts or other nuts, 1/4 cup semisweet vegan chocolate chips, 1/4 cup drained crushed pineapple and 3/4 cup dried cherries. Fold into the mixture before transferring it to the pan. I prefer just adding walnuts to mine. 

Thanks,

Anxiety And Lightening The Load

I've started blogging at a time in my life where I just feel like everything I want, all of my goals, are not yet accomplished. I'm not already successful. I haven't lost a large amount of weight already, and become a much healthier, fitter person. I haven't graduated college and landed my dream job. I'm not married with a beautiful house. I don't have any great tips and tricks to share with the world on how to be the best person you can be.

I'm just a 22 year old woman, living a simple life full of hopes and dreams and I am no where near successful. I have a 5 year old daughter. We live at my parents' house. I haven't even been able to find a part-time job making minimum wage yet. And even though I have a very clear picture in my head of what I want in life I am no where there. I was once pretty close to that goal, but in the past year I've fallen, and I've fallen far. 

I'm at a point in my life where I'm only a few more steps to rock bottom, but I don't mind because I just keep looking up and trying to be grateful for all the things I have. 

Yes, I struggle every day with different choices. I question myself constantly on how I got to this point and how do I get back up? What's my next move? 

And while I push all of these goals on myself, my shoulders get heavier and heavier. I think it might be time to lighten the load.

Because my anxiety is through the roof. My chest hurts every day. I get migraines on a daily basis, popping Advil like Tictacs. I chew on my bottom lip, bite my nails and worry and worry and worry. My energy is completely drained, and everything seems like too much work. 

Well, like I said, it's time to lighten the load. Yes, I have a lot of goals, but do all of them need to be accomplished at once? No, so I should try not to worry about it so much. I can tell myself this all I want, but will I ever learn? Will I ever take my own advice? Doubtfully. 

However, thanks to the internet there are so many resources to help me. Blogs, articles, forums. One of my favourite blogs to read right now is Zen Habits written by Leo Babauta. Leo Babauta talks about motivation, goals, health and fitness, family, simplicity, frugality, inspiration and living in the moment. It's a really great blog, and I highly recommend it.

Thanks,

Friday Fitness - Calorie Counting

photo credit: askmen.com

Weight Lost and Weight Gained

After Sidney was born I had been at my heaviest weight ever. It was really upsetting for me and so I made a promise to myself to lose weight and get healthy and I kept that promise! I did lose weight - 60 lbs actually - and I was in the best health I had ever been. 

Except I forgot to promise myself to maintain that weight and health and so I slipped back into bad habits after 3 years of eating nutritious meals and daily workouts. Before I knew it, I was right back to that post-pregnancy weight, my heaviest weight ever. How upsetting.

But I did it before, I can do it again. As mentioned in previous posts, I was planning on taking small steps to a healthier lifestyle but that just doesn't seem to be working. I was concerned with injuring myself or not being able to stick to a healthy diet. I don't think I can do it that way now.

In 2008 I bought a few workout DVDs. Since that time my collection has tripled. I used those DVDs every morning and sweated my butt off. Maybe I just need to jump in. Grow some confidence and believe that I will succeed!

That's another thing that I seemed to have lost in the last few years; my confidence.

Counting Calories

A really great website that I signed up for at that time was caloriecount.about.com. It's free to sign up and has a lot of benefits for those wanting to live a healthier lifestyle. You can pay for premium memberships if you want to.

Website Includes:

• Food, Activity and Weight Logs
• Meal Planning and Recipes
• Forums and Groups
• Journals
• Articles
• BMI Calculator
• Calorie Target Calculator
• and Much More!

This site has changed a lot since the last time I used it, so I have some figuring out to do. But if you are looking to become a healthier you, maybe you can sign up and join me? I'll admit, discussing my weight issues publicly online is terrifying. It's that one topic that really makes me anxious. I'm getting desperate though. I don't like feeling this way, sluggish and slow, tired all the time. 

What are some of your weight loss tips? What motivates you?

Thanks, 

Fitness Fridays, And Photography

Moving Train - Cole's Photography

Okay, can I just come up with a reasonable excuse as to why I didn't do so well this week? 

I had the flu, and didn't feel completely better until Wednesday. It really put a damper on my plans.

However, after that whole ordeal I did start eating breakfasts in the morning (so it’s only been three days…) and I have been going for walks.

I actually switched it up. 

Instead of extending my walk home from dropping Sidney off at school I decided to kill two birds with one stone and go for walks and work on my photography! On Wednesday I walked through Riverside Park, and yesterday I walked around my neighbourhood, taking pictures of anything that looked interesting enough. My boyfriend Nick was telling me about this abandoned nursery (like a flower  nursery?) and I figured that would be another great place to take pictures. So if I have the time today I want to go there and walk around. Otherwise, I’ll have to settle for a boring walk around the neighbourhood again and hit up the nursery another day.

It takes me a lot of energy to motivate myself. Sometimes when I don’t want to do something, like go for a walk, I have to make it more fun and interesting. I found that bringing my camera along does just that and therefore inspires me to want to go out! 

Some people like going with a friend, 

walking a certain trail or 

listening to their iPod. 

Not me. 

I like solitude, 

silence,

and fresh scenery. 

So, I’m sure I will continue this routine into the next week. 

As for my breakfasts… Well, on Wednesday I had a Muffet with milk and orange juice. Yesterday I had a bagel with cream cheese and I know that’s not the healthiest option but I really don’t care for most breakfast foods. Today I had a Bolthouse smoothie, which is just a fruit smoothie that comes already made from the grocery store. I’ll do better next week, for real. 

Now, I don’t feel comfortable enough in my two new routines to add another. Like I said, I was sick for half the week so I am going to stick with this for another week and hopefully next Friday I will tackle the more difficult tasks. Eeks!

Thanks,