The Life Makeover - November

I feel like I set myself achievable goals for the month of October, and yet I don't necessarily feel like I've done a very good job at achieving them. I suppose I could blame it on my heavy school load this month, but that doesn't really feel right either. I think I just didn't pay enough attention to my goals.

What I feel good about:

I like to think I did more fun activities with Sidney this month. Our evening routine is still going well, and adding fun activities to our schedule has made our days more enjoyable. We like to do a lot of drawing, we play board games and watch Halloween movies. We got outdoors a few times, we went shopping a couple of times and Sidney got to spend a lot of time with other family members.

And Sid's party was a success! It was exhausting but a lot of fun.

I spent time with my family a bit more this month than in September. Sidney loves going over to play with her cousins, and I get to relax and hangout with my sisters and mom. It's relaxing at their house and I'm not sure why I didn't make time to go over there before.

Big Fail:

I haven't been eating breakfast every day. It's a hit or miss really.

And I didn't get any filing done.

I'm Okay With It:

Other than splurging on Sidney's birthday party, I really didn't spend any money on myself. I did have to pay a big chunk of money on my car which was quite unfortunate and took a big dent out of my bank account, but what can you do?

I managed to apply for a few awards and bursaries. There are still some others I can apply for this month. My assignments are all getting handed in on time, I haven't been missing any classes but I am still procrastinating a lot of my assignments.

November Goals:

1. Health: I need to start eating a healthy breakfast in the mornings! But this month I also want to start eating healthier in general. I need to spend more time on planning healthy meals and snacks and to cook more from scratch. I hate cooking and lately I've been making a lot of processed foods. Not very good, I know!

2. Parenthood: Our evenings are going smoother than before. We're making an effort to go out and have more fun. What I could really work on this month is to sit down with Sidney and help her with homework more often. She doesn't get very much homework, and we always get it handed in on time, but I buy activity books for Sidney to help her with spelling and math equations that I would like to spend more time on. And we should be reading more, too.

3. Relationships: This month I read The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin for the Self-Love Book Club and there were a lot of really great ideas in there. For example, Remember Birthdays! This month I would love to email everyone I know to get their contact information and birthdays so that I can send out Christmas cards and wish my friends and family a happy birthday every year. I think it's such a great idea because I know how much I love receiving Christmas cards and birthday wishes.

4 Home: Since my filing goal last month was a huge fail I need to work on that this month. Problem is, I never learned how to properly do it. So, I'm going to have to do some research or even ask my mom for help and get it done! I think having a proper filing system in place will keep me much more organized and I can pay my bills on time.

5. Money: Continue to look for work. Find ways to make money. I need to replenish my bank account after that car incident which ate up so much money. Also, I need to call the bank and figure out my car payments because the place where I had my car loan was sold to another bank and I still haven't got that taken care of.

6. School: School is going well. Some classes more so than others. One thing I could work on top of my goal to stop procrastinating, is to pay more attention in class and take better notes. Every classroom has a giant Mac computer on every desk and I often find myself on Facebook and Twitter.

Overall, October was a fantastic month! Some things didn't get accomplished, but the ones that did were worth the tiny bit of extra effort. Now that it is November, and Christmas is coming up, there is going to be a lot of things to juggle. But in the end, it's all worth it!

How did the month go for you? Did you manage to accomplish any goals this October?

Thanks, 

Cole

The Life Makeover Plan

 

Any time a big life changing event happens to me (like breaking up with someone), I often do a lot of reflecting.

 

This is probably one of the biggest changes I have experienced. Within a week I started college, and have become a single parent living on my own! That's a lot to take in. But I noticed that being in school has helped me to feel hopeful, inspired and even distracted enough to get through the day.

 

As I looked around my emptier apartment after dinner I started to feel sad, and began reminiscing on all the good times Nick and I shared throughout our life together. Knowing that those times are long gone, and there's nothing I can do about it, I decided I had to do something to get through this time in my life.

 

Clearly the site of my apartment was triggering these emotions. It's a big unorganized mess right now. So I dove in and rearranged some furniture. And let me tell you, moving a queen sized bed and a desk by myself was hard work! And it's over 30 Celsius (feels like 40!) outside right now (which is really weird for this time of year)! But it made me feel better.

 

And so I decided that my apartment needs a complete makeover.

 

But like I always do, I started thinking and looking even deeper into my problems. Not only is my apartment a mess, but my life is a big mess, too.

 

There are so many things in my life that have been making me unhappy for so long that I got used to it and it just became the norm. Like my weight gain, and my not so pretty wardrobe. I've been slacking in the parenting department, too. And I never go out with my friends any more. Not to mention, my finances are a disaster!

 

That is why I decided I need a complete life makeover.

 

Now, some people are probably thinking "Don't take on too much!" Which is good advice, but I know myself pretty well now and if I don't keep myself busy I will fall into a horrible, deep depression. Which is kind of how my life got into such a big mess in the first place! I haven't had a job or been in school for almost a year now. Being a stay at home mom has never felt right for me, either. And besides, it's just me and Sid now. I might as well pay a little more attention to myself!

 

And so I looked through all of the different areas of my life and chose 6 that really needed some attention.

 

Those 6 areas are:

1. Health
2. Parenthood
3. Relationships with friends and family
4. Home
5. Money
6. School

Each month I will write out one goal for each area of my life that needs work. I'll aim to achieve those goals of course, but I know that sometimes things just can't get done. In which case, that goal can get bumped into the next month or maybe I'll try something different and get back to it later. That happens sometimes, you feel like you're ready to do something and then later on realize you weren't.

 

For the rest of September my goals are:

 

1. Health: Pick up exercise bike from my aunt's house and go on it for 15 minutes a day. Not a long time, but enough time to get me started. Any longer than that and I might not even bother!

 

2. Parenthood: Work on our evening routine. You know, supper, tidy up, bath time, story, bed, etc.

 

3. Relationships: Start making plans with friends again.

 

4. Home: Rearrange furniture and organize belongings in bedroom and living room.

 

5. Money: Send out resumes for a part time job, for no more than 12 hours a week (I don't want to exhaust myself). Pretty sure I will need all the money I can get at this point! AND work out a monthly budget to help keep spending under control.

 

6. School: School is just on here so it doesn't get neglected. Basically, show up every day on time, hand in homework on time.

 

That's my plan for the next 20 days. If everything goes over smoothly, hopefully I will have built a few new good habits and accomplished some stuff, and can add 6 more goals for October!

 

What areas could you work on in your life?

 

Thanks,
Cole

Making the Vegan Transition!

Yesterday I wrote about my very painful experience with gallstones. Well, I have a bit of good news! After doing another ultrasound this morning it has been determined that surgery is not needed. The doctor suggested I make simple changes to my diet to reduce the chance of having to deal with gallstone pain again.

And so for the zillionth time in my life, it was suggested that I pretty much adapt a vegan diet.

Well, in my doctor’s words, “Cut back on high fat foods like cream, cheese, fatty meats, take-out and processed foods.”

Sounds like a plant-based diet to me. 

I know I could simply cut back on these foods, but why not eliminate them altogether?

My boyfriend has been a strict vegetarian (no meat, eggs or dairy) for 5 years now. And while I like many, many vegan foods I have always had a difficult time sticking to just vegan foods.

3 Reasons Why:

For one, I can’t stand beans. The taste, the texture, the smell. While I have forced myself to eat them many times because I understand that they are actually super healthy, I have always had to disguise them as well as I can. But sometimes even knowing they are there turns me off.

Another thing, one I hate to talk about, is my poor relationship with food in general. I am a food addict. Not going to lie, I love food. I love ice cream, and steak and cheese! There are indeed always great alternatives, but they aren’t quite the same as the real thing.

And lastly, the alternatives are a little bit pricier! I mean, tubs of ice cream go on sale for $2.99 all of the time! But a super tiny tub of vegan ice cream rarely dips below the $3.99 mark. Most vegan foods just don’t go on sale, ever! And while I know buying unprocessed, fresh foods, and ingredients, is truly much cheaper than buying anything processed, sometimes I just really want an Oreo (which is vegan! And does go on sale) or a veggie burger!

 

I might as well try it again, though:

 

What it comes down to is the fact that clearly my current diet is not working out for me. I’m overweight, I’m exhausted, I have gallstones and I’m just plain tired of living like this.

Because my boyfriend is vegetarian, because I have been vegan on and off, and because I have done a lot of research, own a lot of books and watched many documentaries, I know in the end that a vegan diet can do wonders for your health. So for the next little while I’m going to start the switch.

I can’t promise anyone, not even myself, that this time it will work out. I can’t guarantee I will stick to this diet for the rest of my life. But I know that for now I can start making the transition to a healthier diet.

I might even keep you guys updated on my progress ;)

How about you? Are you a vegan or vegetarian? How did you make the transition?

Thanks,
Cole

 

PS - At least most beer is vegan! And one reason Nick refuses a vegan title - He loves Guinness!

Weekly Wishes #4 - Fight This Fatigue!

Last week I decided I needed to declutter my apartment, and I think I did a pretty good job! For the most part, anyway. All of the stuff I no longer want is sitting in a pile still, but it's gotten bigger and I have a yard sale planned for this coming up Saturday. It's even listed in the newspaper now, and we have signs to put up later this week. I'm hoping to make at least $100. Anything that doesn't sell will simply get donated. Only then is last week's Weekly Wish complete!

 

As for this week, I have a few goals in mind. And a lot of it has to do with how I've been feeling lately which is tired! I am tired all the time.

 

1. Stop putting it off and get blood work done! My doctor instructed me to get some blood work done in July sometime and I still haven't. It could explain why I'm so tired though. So, even though I hate getting blood taken I'm going to get it done!

 

2. Walking every day has been nice, but I think it's time to add in some more intense workouts. This week I plan on using my workout DVDs to exercise at least 3 times.

 

3. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Eat less processed foods. I've been too tired to cook proper meals lately, which might be adding to my fatigue. Everyone knows that eating healthy is the best way to fight fatigue, right?

 

And that's the plan, to conquer this never ending fatigue once in for all!

What are some of your goals for the upcoming week?

 

Thanks,
Cole

Weekly Wishes #2 - Organize My Room

 

Last week I set a goal for myself to get out and walk/jog every day for at least a half an hour. To be honest, I did get outside every day but I didn't quite do it for the exercise. I don't even own running shoes!

 

Hear me out though!

 

• Monday was spent at the beach swimming. 
• I walked to the library (which is a good 40 minutes there and back) on Tuesday.
• I walked to the grocery store (definitely half an hour) on Wednesday.
• Thursday we went to Soper Park and walked around where I took pictures of flowers, including the one here, and played in the stream. 
• My mom took Sidney out on Friday and I caught up on reading and cleaning - but I didn't get outside much.
• Yesterday, which was Saturday, I was out all day! My Grandma picked us up and we took Sidney plus my two nieces to an indoor playground because it was raining, so again I didn't get out to walk around.
• I would like to think I made up for that today (Sunday) though. Nick, Sid and I went for a two hour long walk through the woods, came home for supper and then out to the park for half an hour. We had to leave early because it started to rain.

 

Maybe not my best effort, but I'm definitely going to continue to try and get out to walk more this next week.

 

Weekly Wishes #2: Organize My Bedroom!

 

I moved into my current apartment back in May of this year. I fell in love with it's century old charm and I couldn't wait to get settled in.

 

However, I still haven't really done anything with this place! My apartment is a big, unorganized mess and one of my goals for this summer is to get things organized before school starts.

 

Unfortunately what I lack is furniture and money to buy furniture. I've been thrift store shopping and yard sale hopping but I haven't found anything that I like enough to spend money on. I can't even find anything curbside worth picking up.

 

Since my living room is kind of small, my computer desk, books and hobby supplies have to fit in my bedroom. It's a big old junk fest in there right now. Well, for $30 I can pick up a bookshelf for my bedroom to help get my books and craft supplies organized. So that is my goal for the week!

 

 

I've been putting off this daunting task for three months! I'll be super proud of myself once it's completed. Seriously! I am a huge procrastinator which is why I was so eager to start linking up for these Weekly Wishes over at The Nectar Collective. Having to post my results is a huge motivator.

 

 

I had a blast reading what other people wrote last week and can't wait to see how they did, and what their next Weekly Wish will be!

 

Do you have a weekly goal you would like to accomplish? What is it?

 

Thanks,
Cole

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, 

Month In Review - February

Goodbye February. Hello March!

Can you believe we're already two months into 2013?

This month has been an interesting one. I've made a lot of progress with my goals, and even though there has been some stress in my personal life I'm some how managing to move forward.

At the beginning of the month I did a little bit of self-reflection to figure out what I really want out of life and learned to appreciate what I have.

I got accepted into college and applied for funding this month, which is a huge achievement and I'm very excited about it!

I also started to make small lifestyle changes to work towards being healthier, like getting enough water throughout the day.

I made some major dents in my organizing goals. My dresser got cleaned out and I've said goodbye to over half of my wardrobe. I also parted ways with my beloved magazines by coming up with an organizer to keep my favourite articles.

I even went back in time to talk about my teen pregnancy and the emotions that came with that.

I turned 23 years old last month, too. And celebrated my 6 year anniversary of being with my wonderful Nick. And now I can look forward to another month, and if I can help it I'll stay positive. Maybe I will even accomplish some more goals, like finding a job. 

How was your February?

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,

Week In Review - College Application Accepted!

Week in Review:

I've seen a lot of blogs do this and I love reading them! So I thought it would be fun to start doing it.

Personal Life:

Parenting - The weather has been strange this week. The beginning of the week was warm and raining. Now it’s freezing out and snowing - a lot! So basically, we’ve been stuck inside. Doing crafts, watching TV and lazing about. And FYI - I am so sick of the movie Hotel Transylvania.

Growth - I am in the process of organizing my life and everything in it. I want everything to be clean, organized and simple by the time I start college. So far I’ve weeded out my movies, books and music and filed all my paperwork but there is still so much to do.

Health - There’s a chance that I may have a thyroid problem. I’m showing a lot of the symptoms. Plus my sister has a thyroid problem and I’ve read that it’s genetic. Which could explain my weight gain, or maybe I just want something to blame other than my laziness... Anyway, it’s almost time for that dreadful annual check-up, so I’ll bring it up to my doctor when I see her. It’s also time for a dental check-up, too. It’s always one thing or another…

Professional:

Work - I've been doing the awful January job search. Anyone who has ever tried to get a job within the retail industry in January knows what I'm talking about! All I need is a job that pays me by the hour until I can go to college this September.

College - As far as college goes, my next appointment is in a week. I'm still working on that paperwork. There are all these questions on it! Like, "Tell us about your educations plan." and "How did you come with this plan?"

I don't really know what else to say other than "I want to go to this college, because it's close to home." I'm pretty sure the answer can't be that simple though. And then I have to prove that upon receiving my diploma I will be able to find a job within that field and not have wasted their money. I’m really stressing out about this. If I can’t write killer answers to these questions, there is a good chance I won’t get my funding application accepted.

Good news though. I’ve been accepted into the college program of my choice, and just confirmed it!

Etsy - We’ve got a bunch of new items we plan on listing within the next week. I’ve also finished retaking all the pictures, too. Or at least almost finished. I have a few more items that I need to retake.

New Items:

Libbey Glasses

Anchor Hocking Candy Dish

Hand Crafted Ontario Wooden Bowl

Mid Century Square Wire Bowl

Pyrex Percolator

So that’s what’s going on right now.

What’s new with you?

Thanks,


PS - Today is our 6 year anniversary. No biggie. :)

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.

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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!!

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,

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,