tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29787919319770375542024-03-13T06:38:22.619-07:00¤ Living with Courage and Without Regret ¤Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-47875236993935209592015-04-03T20:05:00.000-07:002015-04-09T20:06:32.314-07:00Baby, it's a castle outside<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today I had my lovely Remicade.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, I was incredibly grumpy due to a poor sleep, forgetting to pack a snack, no morning tea (UGH!), and was late for my appointment. I got the snakiest look from reception when I was checking in. It's not my fault that my usual transportation is gone, and I had to walk. In -20 weather (which, in my Northern reality, is actually quite balmy).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thus.... none of the usual Remicade photos. But you can always link back to admire IVs in my hand and various Remicade snacks <a href="http://courageregret.blogspot.ca/search/label/Remicade">HERE.</a></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So... what is a young lady to do in a cold, frigid town?</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Explore a castle made of ice. OBVIOUSLY.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AjICVSVLItw/VSc0IQ6meCI/AAAAAAAADgE/2kVilB7bdfg/s1600/20150308_153123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AjICVSVLItw/VSc0IQ6meCI/AAAAAAAADgE/2kVilB7bdfg/s1600/20150308_153123.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For 20 years, the Snow King has made his castle of ice and snow for Yellowknifers to enjoy. He (and his crew) went ALL out this year. It was an impressive monstrosity, including a bar (made of ice, of course), a stage, a AMAZING ice slide, various tunnels, and latrines. There were even snow sculptures outside to welcome you in.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But, really... the photos speak for themselves.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoD-CXXhdE/VSc4ZFn9ASI/AAAAAAAADgQ/27KMcWmE8Hg/s1600/20150308_151803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoD-CXXhdE/VSc4ZFn9ASI/AAAAAAAADgQ/27KMcWmE8Hg/s1600/20150308_151803.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIqp5VYxNLc/VSc4-qlTJ2I/AAAAAAAADgY/01joMBRSC24/s1600/20150308_151840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIqp5VYxNLc/VSc4-qlTJ2I/AAAAAAAADgY/01joMBRSC24/s1600/20150308_151840.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well, hello there sailor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Apparently I was pleased with the photographer...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5tl1-6PHKY/VSc5N9kv-VI/AAAAAAAADgg/24qA1TNIWIg/s1600/20150308_153115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5tl1-6PHKY/VSc5N9kv-VI/AAAAAAAADgg/24qA1TNIWIg/s1600/20150308_153115.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8aCyh7Nl3I/VSc6EUUm3BI/AAAAAAAADgs/O1MuEZOTL48/s1600/20150321_162819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8aCyh7Nl3I/VSc6EUUm3BI/AAAAAAAADgs/O1MuEZOTL48/s1600/20150321_162819.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The bar made of ice!!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AiKJl2LZtnw/VSc6MkFyfuI/AAAAAAAADg0/lCSCuTR5_hg/s1600/20150322_173316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AiKJl2LZtnw/VSc6MkFyfuI/AAAAAAAADg0/lCSCuTR5_hg/s1600/20150322_173316.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQFBuJFaHKE/VSc6Plva2JI/AAAAAAAADhE/08iEt68ifZk/s1600/castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQFBuJFaHKE/VSc6Plva2JI/AAAAAAAADhE/08iEt68ifZk/s1600/castle.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVQd_I_jpBE/VSc6M7Irf1I/AAAAAAAADg4/CYfzb9Ad490/s1600/20150308_152243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVQd_I_jpBE/VSc6M7Irf1I/AAAAAAAADg4/CYfzb9Ad490/s1600/20150308_152243.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XLUg4cRx7Uk/VSc6UGAM5HI/AAAAAAAADhM/Zm7BVvcoP3g/s1600/20150326_204902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XLUg4cRx7Uk/VSc6UGAM5HI/AAAAAAAADhM/Zm7BVvcoP3g/s1600/20150326_204902.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The stage during a Stand Up comedy night:</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5H1U-F0ja4/VSc6VkxRCvI/AAAAAAAADhU/1qPW2BpsrMo/s1600/20150326_213700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5H1U-F0ja4/VSc6VkxRCvI/AAAAAAAADhU/1qPW2BpsrMo/s1600/20150326_213700.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I snuck away while the bevy of local talent made the crowd guffaw. I was more interested in the ice slide, which was (and this is a very rare occurrence) not overrun with people. In fact, I was the only person enjoying the slide. It was beautiful, dark, with a million stars in the sky.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I8SJB3a-5-I/VSc7YAUijRI/AAAAAAAADhg/2EndWZwcHRQ/s1600/20150326_204651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I8SJB3a-5-I/VSc7YAUijRI/AAAAAAAADhg/2EndWZwcHRQ/s1600/20150326_204651.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A619886YuCQ/VSc7Y2RfSrI/AAAAAAAADho/N7gV91pmG_c/s1600/20150326_204727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A619886YuCQ/VSc7Y2RfSrI/AAAAAAAADho/N7gV91pmG_c/s1600/20150326_204727.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The slide in it's daytime glory:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh9WAKEQ-O8/VSc71r_C-iI/AAAAAAAADh4/l-fRMuaSdjU/s1600/IMG_5711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dh9WAKEQ-O8/VSc71r_C-iI/AAAAAAAADh4/l-fRMuaSdjU/s1600/IMG_5711.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And, to anyone who reads who is not from my Northern home, the castle is built on a giant frozen lake. Yes... we walked, drove, and partied atop several thick feet of ice.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3xDCvildeE/VSc8zVnoEeI/AAAAAAAADiE/wVOC1RSMlOg/s1600/20150329_165304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3xDCvildeE/VSc8zVnoEeI/AAAAAAAADiE/wVOC1RSMlOg/s1600/20150329_165304.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ASWrA_k5Gw/VSc81w6iP_I/AAAAAAAADiM/63SHI60vJuI/s1600/20150329_165441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ASWrA_k5Gw/VSc81w6iP_I/AAAAAAAADiM/63SHI60vJuI/s1600/20150329_165441.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There may have even been a Brrrlesque show at the castle, of which I may have been partaking in. However, I was to chilled to remember to take any photos. Boo.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sadly, the castle has been closed for the season and will melt into a royal pile of slush. It had a grand run, and I look forward to what's in store for next season.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjD8NNZndig/VSc9QLHW0FI/AAAAAAAADiU/amsrpvZR0n4/s1600/20150308_152658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjD8NNZndig/VSc9QLHW0FI/AAAAAAAADiU/amsrpvZR0n4/s1600/20150308_152658.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-65772871128160161422015-03-10T17:23:00.000-07:002015-03-10T18:58:14.749-07:00Hi There<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Hi There Stranger.</i></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So... has it really been six months since I've posted? It has? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Bad.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A hectic six months it has been. No word of a lie. I had good intentions to blog, write about the goings-on here in the cold North, and keeping tabs on my Remicade infusions. But, you know ... sleep, food, work, etc happened. Especially sleep, I have been aggressively protective of any extra minute of sleep I can gain. Constant business can do that to a lady.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A brief breakdown of the last six months, to exemplify why my blog has been collecting proverbial internet dust:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>October</u></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I began a new job (a permanent position!), and this month was orientation. I spend much time going home after work and looking through new guidelines, manuals, and researching health topics that were new to my practice. I love learning and being challenged professionally, so it was an exciting month in that aspect. I was fortunate that I was taking over the role from a previous preceptor of mine, whom I admire for her seemingly endless wealth of knowledge. I am also fortunate that I have some incredible co-workers, who guided me through this new role and answered my questions as I maneuvered through a mountain of new information. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I attended a Run for Our Lives event on 16 October 2014. It was an event to raise funds and awareness regarding breast cancer. As breast cancer runs in my family, I felt it was important to support this event. I went with my Mom. There was some yoga, a dinner (the curried sweet potato soup was DELICIOUS) and discussion of nutrition from Lorie Crawford RHN, and a friend spoke about alternative beauty products. A worthwhile event!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also went to a wine gala. It was ... meh. Small finger foods (not much on the dairy-gluten-free front) and a very crowded room. Some okay wine, but being shoulder-to-shoulder in line waiting for a small sample is not my idea of a fun evening. Also .... very few seats and many women in heels. My poor feet. Will not attend a second time.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also discovered this amazingness, which I've been eating every day since:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ppnm2CecNF0/VPyqH9HBLdI/AAAAAAAADdw/e1YSwzMZOHA/s1600/10685325_10154887759430001_6918715319793081720_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ppnm2CecNF0/VPyqH9HBLdI/AAAAAAAADdw/e1YSwzMZOHA/s1600/10685325_10154887759430001_6918715319793081720_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also amazing, during my Remicade infusion:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-RO_51pvEE/VPyrbT7E5OI/AAAAAAAADd8/DB0iKk6rmhY/s1600/Screenshot_2015-03-08-13-48-37-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-RO_51pvEE/VPyrbT7E5OI/AAAAAAAADd8/DB0iKk6rmhY/s1600/Screenshot_2015-03-08-13-48-37-1.png" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #76a5af; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>November</u></span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tRMLhF6uzuI/VPysrVyt0EI/AAAAAAAADeE/K5RNyzATsno/s1600/10001537_1074705829225536_5925506049971851675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tRMLhF6uzuI/VPysrVyt0EI/AAAAAAAADeE/K5RNyzATsno/s1600/10001537_1074705829225536_5925506049971851675_n.jpg" height="400" width="392" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Orientation over, ready for work just in time for <strike>flute</strike> flu season. This month I learned a great deal about many communicable disease and vaccines, specifically the flu vaccine. Read more about it <a href="http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/naci-ccni/flu-grippe-eng.php">here (Public Health Agency of Canada)</a> and <a href="http://immunize.ca/en/default.aspx">here (Immunize Canada).</a> Very interesting stuff (aka I'm a nerd).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While I was influenza-free (yes, I did get my vaccine!), I did get a nasty sinus infection that dragged on for about two weeks. My neti-pot became my best friend (so much so that I dropped and shattered it, requiring an urgent replacement should my congested nasal passages cause unearthly snoring).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTV4cdl1sSI/VPzTeMzSnvI/AAAAAAAADe8/96WR3W2dkdE/s1600/FB_IMG_1425842796762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTV4cdl1sSI/VPzTeMzSnvI/AAAAAAAADe8/96WR3W2dkdE/s1600/FB_IMG_1425842796762.jpg" height="640" width="408" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also joined Brrrlesque, "the hottest show in town" (seriously... tickets sold out in just seconds last year). I thought I would be unable to attend due to another obligation, but that fell through and dreams of glitter and spotlights danced in my head. I asked if any groups needed a spare for their piece, and back into rehearsals I was! This lead on to many months of rehearsals, costume alterations, loops of music replayed continuously to the annoyance of others. And spending time with some of the most incredible women.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">D</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">c</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">m</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">b</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">r</span></u></span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remicade again. December 24th, 2014 marked year four of this potent medication pulsing through my veins, allowing me to have a chance at a normal quality of life. My UC has never been this well behaved. Let's hope it keeps working for many years to come:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udGKiXlX5uY/VPywBrIk_eI/AAAAAAAADeQ/z44Y9Z32vT4/s1600/10850176_10155120332685001_4096144516213026160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udGKiXlX5uY/VPywBrIk_eI/AAAAAAAADeQ/z44Y9Z32vT4/s1600/10850176_10155120332685001_4096144516213026160_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also had my first EVER trip to Toronto, Ontario - for Christmas and New Years, no less!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a trip with my handsome man, to see his stomping grounds and meet the family (or, as my Mother says, "the outlaws"). Scott was kind enough to inform the family about my dietary concerns - and, much to my surprise and delight, had a dairy-gluten free Christmas dinner prepared. His Mom even purchased some of my favorite fruits and snacks so I wouldn't go hungry. His family rocks.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He also surprised me with a gift of tickets to some of the attractions to see in Toronto - Casa Loma, Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, Science Center, CN Tower. Yes, those are in order from my most favorite to "yay another high tower" rating. Sadly, we did not make it to any Leaf games (although their season has been crummy).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although, I did get to meet someone pretty fantastic...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDcZnxfl4cM/VPy3Cyo49lI/AAAAAAAADeg/2qdzzGkZOHY/s1600/IMG_2967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDcZnxfl4cM/VPy3Cyo49lI/AAAAAAAADeg/2qdzzGkZOHY/s1600/IMG_2967.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*Commence Canadian Geeking Out*</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He also introduced me to some delicious places to eat, which is a magnificent treat considering the limited restaurant choices in the small city of Yellowknife. Even more-so, places that can accommodate my delightful dietary issues. I still dream about <a href="http://burritoboyz.ca/">Burrito Boyz</a> and tapas. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>January</u></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy new year?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. I am close with my Grandmother, and the thought of the struggled ahead of her with this diagnosis made my heart ache. I began planning when I could visit to help her with the ordeal of medical appointments, pending procedures, and potentially chemotherapy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was also Brrrlesque photoshoot time. I was fortunate to have a foxy friend complete my makeup for me. I felt like a shiny Burlesque star:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZpP2s5VjIk/VPzRxFWLfcI/AAAAAAAADew/R7TKjk5uwJU/s1600/IMG_1448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZpP2s5VjIk/VPzRxFWLfcI/AAAAAAAADew/R7TKjk5uwJU/s1600/IMG_1448.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit: Tara Marchiori at Chasing Light Studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brrrlesque was a nice reprieve from worries about my Grandmother, and was a much-needed confidence booster. Getting dolled up and having a sisterhood of amazing women telling you that you are also amazing is the jump I needed.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>February</u></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was a hectic month. I had my Remicade to start the month off, then Brrrlesque rehearsals increased as the pending show was at the end of the month. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was also damn cold outside.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AwypslWR6JA/VPzWmJyyp3I/AAAAAAAADfQ/AZIOKOj42LI/s1600/20141109_152600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AwypslWR6JA/VPzWmJyyp3I/AAAAAAAADfQ/AZIOKOj42LI/s1600/20141109_152600.jpg" height="481" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I then went to Victoria for two weeks to help Grandma. It looked more like this:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QfnpsNyMEWU/VP0NMzhOm6I/AAAAAAAADfw/QSFr7FqgZW4/s1600/20150216_135703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QfnpsNyMEWU/VP0NMzhOm6I/AAAAAAAADfw/QSFr7FqgZW4/s1600/20150216_135703.jpg" height="481" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She began chemotherapy. It was hard at times, but I appreciated every moment we had together. I don't know what I would have done without Scott's help, he was the best confidant/supporter/chauffeur I could have asked for.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I did see my friend Sarah while I was there, who introduced me to <a href="http://www.originbakery.com/">Origin Bakery</a>. I had the best gluten-free, vegan bread I've ever had. I bought five loafs of the Vega bread to bring home. I ate one loaf while I was there.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Brrrlesque show was a massive hit. We brought glitter to the city over three miraculous days.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ_WvQ_LYAk/VP0McuAJxeI/AAAAAAAADfg/_B7OKqblHDk/s1600/FB_IMG_1425245038161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ_WvQ_LYAk/VP0McuAJxeI/AAAAAAAADfg/_B7OKqblHDk/s1600/FB_IMG_1425245038161.jpg" height="640" width="637" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Playing Alice in Brrrlesqueland, dancing to Sway, and opening the show were my contributions - which were filled with so much joy and energy. I can't wait to do it again next year. I even made the local newspaper!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wOQe84nG5Pg/VP0MzwRyGdI/AAAAAAAADfo/UxCetrEHNeQ/s1600/FB_IMG_1425489088951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wOQe84nG5Pg/VP0MzwRyGdI/AAAAAAAADfo/UxCetrEHNeQ/s1600/FB_IMG_1425489088951.jpg" height="640" width="349" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>March</u></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My only focus right now is getting a little rest ... and preparing for another Brrrlesque show in a castle made of snow!</span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-56941285631880089012014-09-28T20:24:00.000-07:002014-09-28T20:49:35.832-07:00Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is full-on Autumn here in the North. Which has made for some stunning days...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcjMEpGsE7M/VCi5rbffbWI/AAAAAAAADbY/zqdBN1xPbSg/s1600/1660210_10154614776120447_500586056855428132_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OcjMEpGsE7M/VCi5rbffbWI/AAAAAAAADbY/zqdBN1xPbSg/s1600/1660210_10154614776120447_500586056855428132_n.jpg" height="640" width="608" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7kgG9yK12Y/VCi57WB1f-I/AAAAAAAADbg/unE9HP0-tjk/s1600/10660323_10154614775235447_457213768814394429_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7kgG9yK12Y/VCi57WB1f-I/AAAAAAAADbg/unE9HP0-tjk/s1600/10660323_10154614775235447_457213768814394429_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">... and breathtaking nights</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1FgVEGXy90/VCi7Yc8hWwI/AAAAAAAADbs/eZXvxP8-8Mc/s1600/10678660_10152270160981787_8771934881305989962_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1FgVEGXy90/VCi7Yc8hWwI/AAAAAAAADbs/eZXvxP8-8Mc/s1600/10678660_10152270160981787_8771934881305989962_n.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credit: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jamesmackenziephoto">James MacKenzie Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I live in the most stunning place in the entire world, bar none.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the cooler Autumn days I have been craving some warm comfort foods. My former favorite was canned cream of mushroom soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. As much as I reminisce of this comfort meal that I'd have as a young'un, living out in the outskirts of the city, it is not an ideal meal for me anymore. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's full of gluten, dairy, and processed yuck.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UE46tBp3ZOY/VCjDTiUsDFI/AAAAAAAADb8/JTSEg_nU5lw/s1600/20140928_170932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UE46tBp3ZOY/VCjDTiUsDFI/AAAAAAAADb8/JTSEg_nU5lw/s1600/20140928_170932.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ingredients in the soup is <i>chicken broth, mushrooms, butter, dried potatoes, white wine, modified corn starch, onion powder, salt, flavour (barley), modified milk ingredients, dried chives, dried garlic, sugar, spices</i>.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to make an alternative to cream of mushroom soup that was free of dairy and sugar. If I can make a version of my former favorite that is palatable and easy on my gut, it will makes for a cozier Autumn for my belly.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ndZ9fKMCCcs/VCjViPvYP4I/AAAAAAAADcw/K_-KSukvfBA/s1600/20140927_121456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ndZ9fKMCCcs/VCjViPvYP4I/AAAAAAAADcw/K_-KSukvfBA/s1600/20140927_121456.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few failed versions and bland soups later, I finally hit the mark. Creamy, flavourful, and easy to make. Even my Dad was a fan! The secret? A nut based "cream" and lots of delicious herbs!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Creamy Mushroom Soup</u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXycD8-58uk/VCjF4DQu9AI/AAAAAAAADcQ/0s2_OFLOBOI/s1600/20140928_130134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXycD8-58uk/VCjF4DQu9AI/AAAAAAAADcQ/0s2_OFLOBOI/s1600/20140928_130134.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>1 Tbsp Earth Balance</li>
<li>1 tbsp Olive Oil</li>
<li>1/2 Sweet Onion</li>
<li>1 Carrot</li>
<li>1.5 Celery Stalk</li>
<li>1 Portobello Mushroom</li>
<li>8-10 Brown Mushrooms</li>
<li>2 Oyster Mushrooms</li>
<li>1 Tsp Fresh Parsley</li>
<li>1 Tsp Dried Sage</li>
<li>1 Tsp Dried Thyme </li>
<li>3/4 cup Dry White Wine (I used Chardonnay)</li>
<li>2 Cups Chicken Broth </li>
<li>1 Cup Walnuts</li>
<li>Hot water</li>
<li>Himalayan Sea Salt</li>
<li>Pepper</li>
</ul>
<div>
<ol>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Melt Earth Balance in large soup pot. Add olive oil and chopped onion, carrot, celery. Cook on medium heat until onion is transparent. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add chopped mushrooms, cook and stir occasionally for 8-10 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add chopped herbs, stir.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add white wine and cook on medium-high heat until alcohol is mostly cooked off ... will have less of a alcohol smell.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add chicken broth. Put on low heat and cover for 15 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add walnuts to a high-powered blender (like my beloved Vitamix) and enough hot water to cover. Blend until smooth. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add soup mixture to blender one ladle at a time, blending until smooth (or leave it chunkier if that's your preference). </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt and pepper to taste. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy!</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I like my soup thick and smooth, so if you prefer a more watery texture, add more broth!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am very happy with the outcome of this recipe. Although I still have to forgo grilled cheese sandwiches, this is a very delicious alternative to the store-bought soup.I look forward to chowing down on the leftovers for lunch tomorrow, and I am not a fan of leftovers!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzSHcqRmSxQ/VCjPQ8zEpgI/AAAAAAAADcg/mH3Rt85WUbM/s1600/20140928_130209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzSHcqRmSxQ/VCjPQ8zEpgI/AAAAAAAADcg/mH3Rt85WUbM/s1600/20140928_130209.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-17283487195606265742014-09-01T18:47:00.000-07:002014-09-01T18:47:32.222-07:00"How do you get your protein" / Chocolate Avocado Smoothie<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love love LOVE long weekends! I've been sleeping in like it's my job.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JzfmolCz0Kw/VAUUlCmxaFI/AAAAAAAADak/Agm9tIKmHno/s1600/20140901_165957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JzfmolCz0Kw/VAUUlCmxaFI/AAAAAAAADak/Agm9tIKmHno/s1600/20140901_165957.jpg" height="481" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the rainbow?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even better, the crisp nip of autumn air has crept in overnight. I love it. I am more apt to enjoy the outdoors in cooler weather than during sweltering summer days. I love bundling up in a cozy sweater and toque - then going for a walk or a bike ride. Or, just getting coz</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">y with a cup of tea and a warm blanket when it's rainy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jeja5uRgTNc/VAUXC6QAXII/AAAAAAAADaw/8ktW1AcJPvY/s1600/20140901_180650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jeja5uRgTNc/VAUXC6QAXII/AAAAAAAADaw/8ktW1AcJPvY/s1600/20140901_180650.jpg" height="481" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boy oh boy... has it been raining!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday on Facebook I posted a photo of a smoothie I had made as a late lunch, and there was a request to share the recipe. I picked up the habit of having smoothies as meals when I was in the worst flare I've had with my UC - I was seeing a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, whom had put me on low-residue and high-nutrient "diet" for several months. Smoothies were a staple, as I could not tolerate raw vegetables and was nauseated at the thought of most solid foods. I was also only eating plant-based foods at that time - for the purpose of eating a significant amount of anti-inflammatory foods and personal choice. I found that, while avoiding animal products AND being chronically ill, I never had any difficulty with getting nutrients into myself. Protein seemed to be of biggest concern to my GI, but with the assistance of my RHN - this was never a problem!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since the question of plant-based protein is brought to my attention fairly frequently (aka "How do you get your protein"), here is a cute infographic from<a href="http://kriscarr.com/blog-video/my-crazy-sexy-guide-to-plant-based-protein/"> kriscarr.com</a>:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4kqONzQBrM/VATf7VR5ZpI/AAAAAAAADZU/dk-B26vfYg4/s1600/IMG_4916980813475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4kqONzQBrM/VATf7VR5ZpI/AAAAAAAADZU/dk-B26vfYg4/s1600/IMG_4916980813475.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While I do eat some animal products now (No eggs or dairy - and I opt for organic), I still eat a significant amount of legumes, hemp seeds, tofu, nuts (soaked or milk), seeds (especially chia!), and dark green veggies.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With my smoothies, I also opt for delicious protein powders. I usually use <a href="http://myvega.com/products/">Vega</a>, but my preference for chocolate flavor is <a href="http://www.sunwarrior.com/">Sunwarrior</a>.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKXNC9lgBz8/VATlZWD5wKI/AAAAAAAADZk/Pl5kh-K6gYE/s1600/20140901_141704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKXNC9lgBz8/VATlZWD5wKI/AAAAAAAADZk/Pl5kh-K6gYE/s1600/20140901_141704.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you can see on the package, it is gluten/soy/dairy/GMO free. I also like that it contains all essential amino acids and is easy to digest (at least for my delicate gut)!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is also 15 grams of protein per scoop - two scoops is HALF of my daily requirements for protein!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rjd06M6Ch0/VATm43uOKfI/AAAAAAAADZw/v6xBfhCKfMg/s1600/20140901_141727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rjd06M6Ch0/VATm43uOKfI/AAAAAAAADZw/v6xBfhCKfMg/s1600/20140901_141727.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along with the protein powder, I add a scoop of a "super green" to my smoothies. Extra nutrition!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y02y2Sk0dyE/VATnhhprmrI/AAAAAAAADZ4/N3I16h0c7_k/s1600/20140901_142829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y02y2Sk0dyE/VATnhhprmrI/AAAAAAAADZ4/N3I16h0c7_k/s1600/20140901_142829.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I like this protein powder as it has several super foods: hemp, botanical nutrients, and maca. I am a huge fan of maca, as it is a root that is found to be helpful in hormonal balance, decreasing the stress hormone cortisol, and has many vitamins (A, B, C, D, E) and plant sterols. There are even some studies that are looking into the use of maca for hot flashes in menopausal women!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check out the nutrition label:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--hUclsOO60k/VATosUid4DI/AAAAAAAADaE/Szj05wKSQhI/s1600/20140901_142912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--hUclsOO60k/VATosUid4DI/AAAAAAAADaE/Szj05wKSQhI/s1600/20140901_142912.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another 14 gram of protein. And the manganese!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This all led up to a very filling smoothie, some of which I had to save for a snack today!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Chocolate Avocado Smoothie</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RfTmBbp68dY/VATpsAmWv2I/AAAAAAAADaM/SyJRSrARTXE/s1600/20140831_163318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RfTmBbp68dY/VATpsAmWv2I/AAAAAAAADaM/SyJRSrARTXE/s1600/20140831_163318.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Half frozen banana</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4-5 frozen strawberries</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Half avocado</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup homemade macadamia nut milk</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 scoops Sunwarrior chocolate protein powder</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 scoop Ruth's Goodness hemp, E3 live, and maca powder</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1-2 tbsp agave nectar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cacao nibs (for garnish)</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So simple: Add all ingredients except for cacao nibs to blender. Blend. Put in a cute glass and garnish with cacao nibs. Enjoy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GfzKt_9yzT8/VATq3c5cXmI/AAAAAAAADaU/P4Gri891t9k/s1600/20140831_163307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GfzKt_9yzT8/VATq3c5cXmI/AAAAAAAADaU/P4Gri891t9k/s1600/20140831_163307.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-4605935047076822612014-08-30T18:18:00.000-07:002014-08-30T18:38:27.608-07:00Remicade Challenge<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During last week's Remicade infusion, I pondered.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pondered upon how I've been coming to the same hospital, for Remicade, for almost four years. The flares, and why they keep recurring. My lack of remission. How lonely it feels to be in the hospital without any visitors. How I wish there was a cure, so I could be medication-free. Or, even just being medication free AND in remission - even for a little while.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pondered upon what would make this time during and between infusions meaningful, fun, and be a gentle distraction. I can't change my chronic illness, but at least I can change my perspective. And hopefully alleviate some of the negative associations I've developed.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fudDBauiOco/VAJluF6najI/AAAAAAAADYE/GBtjr8Fiwm4/s1600/photo-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fudDBauiOco/VAJluF6najI/AAAAAAAADYE/GBtjr8Fiwm4/s1600/photo-6.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was bummed that I couldn't bike to my appointment as I am a fatigued mess afterwards. Not a good idea to cycle when you want to nap and can barely keeps one's eyes open. I do, however, take the hospital stairs. It gives me some activity in an otherwise very lazy day.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>*epiphany*</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was inspired to create a challenge, for myself, that is meaningful between Remicade infusions. Right now I am inspired to become a more active person. I used to enjoy being a gym-goer, cycling, swimming, even the dreaded jogging. However, after my flare in the fall, my motivation has nose dived. I've felt significantly better when I am moving more, so hopefully giving myself this fun challenge (and blogging about it!) will keep me accountable.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PzDcKEzndRQ/VAJ0XHEX3XI/AAAAAAAADYo/CGyfq-goo9Y/s1600/photo-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PzDcKEzndRQ/VAJ0XHEX3XI/AAAAAAAADYo/CGyfq-goo9Y/s1600/photo-2.jpg" height="473" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out for a walk!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, I considered the many benefits to increased physical activity. It improves symptoms of <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495">mild-moderate anxiety and depression</a>, is important in bowel health as it increases peristalsis and blood circulation to the gut, assists in maintaining a healthy weight, and is important to so many functions in the body (ie cardiovascular function, musculoskeletal health).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EC6WZZ-iPU/VAJ0IvWUIzI/AAAAAAAADYg/MZP_xVDtrQ4/s1600/photo-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5EC6WZZ-iPU/VAJ0IvWUIzI/AAAAAAAADYg/MZP_xVDtrQ4/s1600/photo-1.jpg" height="640" width="473" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Week one was a success. I did something a little active every day. On Remicade infusion day, I went out for a short walk after a long nap. It was short-lived due to my fatigue... but I had a great sleep afterwards!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most of my activity has been spent going for walks and biking. I have to take advantage to the last few "nice" summer days we have left, as the evening chill is strongly indicating that fall is near.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not that cold weather has stopped me before, but it is easier to cycle on pavement than through snow and ice.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5j2dp_Vamqg/VAJ0fQvSIKI/AAAAAAAADYw/Omf3sTf_H-8/s1600/photo-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5j2dp_Vamqg/VAJ0fQvSIKI/AAAAAAAADYw/Omf3sTf_H-8/s1600/photo-4.jpg" height="473" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If it's not obvious, I'm a winter baby. I love snow and cold weather.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Soon I'll be looking for studded winter tires for my bike. Yes, I intend on biking in the winter. I'm badass like that - cycling on ice roads and all.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pja1sifCLUQ/VAJ1nwqaiXI/AAAAAAAADY8/wdJ1cPc-l2k/s1600/photo-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pja1sifCLUQ/VAJ1nwqaiXI/AAAAAAAADY8/wdJ1cPc-l2k/s1600/photo-3.jpg" height="640" width="473" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speaking of badass, check out the softball jersey's for the team I play for. We're in D division, so.... beer league!</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8JFYlElyoRk/VAJ2SALV4TI/AAAAAAAADZE/F77jTSeEf8o/s1600/20130807_202030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8JFYlElyoRk/VAJ2SALV4TI/AAAAAAAADZE/F77jTSeEf8o/s1600/20130807_202030.jpg" height="475" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we're out of the finals, Walter White has faith we'll kick ass next year!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm about to head out to see if I still have the stamina for (UGH) jogging. Wish me luck.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Does anyone else feel "stuck" in their motivation during a flare or feel down around Remicade time? Do share, and feel free to join me in my Remicade Challenge!! I can use all of the motivation and support I can get!</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-63713297441245584642014-08-22T20:06:00.000-07:002014-08-22T20:06:05.690-07:00Remicade Day, yet again!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Guess what day it is?!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eNP_CuRBYC0/U_f1GPR2GxI/AAAAAAAADWg/gCxjpxPeIxM/s1600/20140822_084828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eNP_CuRBYC0/U_f1GPR2GxI/AAAAAAAADWg/gCxjpxPeIxM/s1600/20140822_084828.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's that fantastical time, every eight weeks, where I am pumped full of medicinal-grade rat proteins that allow me to have a proper quality of life. As in, I'm not constantly nauseated, losing significant weight unintentionally, in the fetal position from severe abdominal pain, and/or spending the majority of my day ensuring I am near toilet facilities.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Yes, it really does contain rat protein).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4ymwIcBDJ4/U_f0wKDQodI/AAAAAAAADWY/uOYcZsMHfvQ/s1600/20140822_085016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4ymwIcBDJ4/U_f0wKDQodI/AAAAAAAADWY/uOYcZsMHfvQ/s1600/20140822_085016.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My trusted IV pump and myself.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ah, Remicade.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another early morning to attend this appointment, due to my previous reactions and necessity for "pre meds" now. Although, I am glad I am no longer going to receive IV Gravol considering my <a href="http://courageregret.blogspot.ca/2014/06/remicade-ing.html">less than pleasant experience </a>with it previously. I'm quite happily taking my Cetirizine daily, five days before and seven days after my infusion. No side effects as of yet.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to this early morning appointment, I went into work early to ensure all pertinent documents, etc were attended to. Which means I was awake at 0645. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A morning person, I am not.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I prepared some quinoa flakes with raisins and coconut sugar to take to work for a quick breakfast. Then I packed my snacks for the day:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DyARAuZyq3k/U_f6YcDPJkI/AAAAAAAADW0/cjnBaARGZLI/s1600/20140822_085535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DyARAuZyq3k/U_f6YcDPJkI/AAAAAAAADW0/cjnBaARGZLI/s1600/20140822_085535.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">POM juice, organic blueberries, bananas, and plenty of tea.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>First</b> <b>step</b> on Remicade day: Pokey.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSlW26iqk5I/U_f84jzs96I/AAAAAAAADW8/QAGuIyXrQic/s1600/20140822_083542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OSlW26iqk5I/U_f84jzs96I/AAAAAAAADW8/QAGuIyXrQic/s1600/20140822_083542.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OUCH.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My usual nurse was off work today. I think she has the magic touch for IV. I hope she's back in eight weeks!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Second</b> <b>step</b>: Vital signs. And... um.... educational reading.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11nr4ePtItA/U_f-GkbQDYI/AAAAAAAADXE/j-JvX1MFfok/s1600/20140822_090045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11nr4ePtItA/U_f-GkbQDYI/AAAAAAAADXE/j-JvX1MFfok/s1600/20140822_090045.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-taiOaBwJIeU/U_f-nAmlN6I/AAAAAAAADXM/DtWs8fXncEU/s1600/20140822_090240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-taiOaBwJIeU/U_f-nAmlN6I/AAAAAAAADXM/DtWs8fXncEU/s1600/20140822_090240.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After my foggy brain last infusion, I felt some gentle reading was appropriate:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqC0OwwdDBc/U_f_KFW3RoI/AAAAAAAADXU/fa9AAC2C0o8/s1600/20140822_090827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqC0OwwdDBc/U_f_KFW3RoI/AAAAAAAADXU/fa9AAC2C0o8/s1600/20140822_090827.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Step</b> <b>three</b>: Remicade time!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKJa-20GQB4/U_f_rIVuOvI/AAAAAAAADXc/SIRz4I58fBM/s1600/20140822_101649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKJa-20GQB4/U_f_rIVuOvI/AAAAAAAADXc/SIRz4I58fBM/s1600/20140822_101649.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Step</b> <b>four</b>: Waiting...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time for reading, snacks, and tea!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XzKCrJiGfxE/U_gA1LYRR4I/AAAAAAAADXk/qI32s9iRf-8/s1600/20140822_100010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XzKCrJiGfxE/U_gA1LYRR4I/AAAAAAAADXk/qI32s9iRf-8/s1600/20140822_100010.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After my infusion, it was noted that my Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) that was to be collected with this month's lab-work. Which means... I have to get blood-work. Again.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Le sigh.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I had to register a second time, wait, and get poked with another needle. Yay?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSdWXSCSp38/U_gDCkM46EI/AAAAAAAADXs/2KXWDqMIGbM/s1600/20140822_124949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSdWXSCSp38/U_gDCkM46EI/AAAAAAAADXs/2KXWDqMIGbM/s1600/20140822_124949.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OUCH x 2.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSaE470rjRg/U_gDtvX8R_I/AAAAAAAADX0/upLFoM8uxBU/s1600/20140822_143127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSaE470rjRg/U_gDtvX8R_I/AAAAAAAADX0/upLFoM8uxBU/s1600/20140822_143127.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After such an early morning, two needles, and post-Remicade fatigue and headaches... it's time for a much needed nap. More tomorrow on a new undertaking I am considering... that I pondered upon during today's Remicade treatment!</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-66614705051733345112014-08-19T21:51:00.000-07:002014-08-19T22:05:22.538-07:00Eat The Rainbow<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today was a rainy, grey day. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not that I am complaining whatsoever. I love rain - the cool crisp air, the smell of rain, jumping in puddles. Plus, with all of the wildfires we were LONG overdue for some rain to calm the smoke down.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZvodt3BCPg/U_QPvj9zQ-I/AAAAAAAADUg/uf9z53DhpSU/s1600/20140817_152436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZvodt3BCPg/U_QPvj9zQ-I/AAAAAAAADUg/uf9z53DhpSU/s1600/20140817_152436.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was beautiful on Sunday, however. I did enjoy some time strolling around Prosperous Lake with a very cute someone...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look at that face!!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3q0WlaX-vq4/U_QQMC-1XdI/AAAAAAAADUo/tlQhjIpLBpU/s1600/20140817_151207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3q0WlaX-vq4/U_QQMC-1XdI/AAAAAAAADUo/tlQhjIpLBpU/s1600/20140817_151207.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Awwww Mocha *love*</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- - -</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been very fortunate that my Mom, Aunty, and friends have been sharing their fresh summer produce with me. I have a crisper full of kale, beets, beans, raspberries, potatoes, lettuce, carrots...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is a general recommendation to eat a variety of foods in various colors. This is because differently colored natural foods house different phytonutrients, carotenoids, and antioxidants. This is essential in ensuring optimal healthy and slowing aging. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I try my best to have this variety, but I admit I am not always perfect. Especially during the winter months, when seasonal fresh produce is limited.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each color has their own potent (and delicious)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> benefit:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Red: </span>Tons of phytochemicals such as lycopene, anthocyanins, Vitamin D, folate. These have significant roles in prostate health and cardiovascular health. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite sources: Cherries, beets, tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f1c232;">Yellow</span>/<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">Orange: </span>Very high in antioxidants! Full of beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, alpha-carotene, and vitamin A+D. They are excellent for eyesight, immune function, bone health, healthy skin, and the heart. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite sources: Carrots, yellow bell peppers, oranges, sweet potatoes, mangos, cantaloupe.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Green: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the most common color I incorporate into my sources of produce. LOTS of delicious chlorophyll! Which is fantastic, as greens are full of phytonutrients, minerals, and tons of nutrition! There is lutein, calcium, iron, Vitamin K, folate, glutathione, indoles, and sulforaphane. All helpful in detoxifying the liver, keeping a healthy blood pressure, keeps skin and bones healthy, and has some anticancer properties.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite sources: Kale, spinach, beet greens, spirulina, broccoli, brussels sprouts, avocados, celery, cucumbers, green apples ...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blue</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">/<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Purple: </span>My second favorite color - always something blue or purple in my morning smoothies! These rich colors are full of anti-aging and antioxidant nutrients. This includes anthocyanins, Vitamin C+E+K, and many other fantastic antioxidants. The richer and darker the color - the more health benefits! It is great for your immune system, circulation, skin, heart health, urinary tract health, brain function, improved cholesterol, and anti-cancer properties.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite sources: Blueberries, blackberries, raisins, plums, pomegranates.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: blue; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">White:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This does not mean processed white foods - think fruits and vegetables! White produce has anti-microbial properties (due to it's sulfur content), flavenoids, vitamin C, and manganese. They are also great for your immune system, heart health, cellular recovery, and has anti-cancer properties.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite sources: Mushrooms, garlic, onions.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My example of a colorful food day. First stop: Breakfast.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DgiDsoZP4RU/U_QdHxOL7lI/AAAAAAAADVA/6ckBh6UX44Y/s1600/20140818_101904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DgiDsoZP4RU/U_QdHxOL7lI/AAAAAAAADVA/6ckBh6UX44Y/s1600/20140818_101904.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A green smoothie. It's full of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">spinach</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">blueberries</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">strawberries</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">spirulina</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f1c232;">banana</span>, coconut water, and Vega protein powder!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hydration is also very important. So, I have been drinking lots of water with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">mint </span>and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">cucumber</span>. Flavored water is more enticing and delicious to drink - and the new jug makes it visually more appealing!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcTAOEsu3kA/U_QfyqHlcjI/AAAAAAAADVI/YgbvL-4O0jc/s1600/20140818_122254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcTAOEsu3kA/U_QfyqHlcjI/AAAAAAAADVI/YgbvL-4O0jc/s1600/20140818_122254.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lunch was some leftover <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Borscht</span> that my Mom had prepared. The Ukrainian part of me is very pleased! I had to wear a makeshift bib to prevent myself from getting red beet broth all over my work clothes!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I threw in some organic <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">black</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">beans</span> to increase the protein and fiber quotient.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hhhxit1Li_0/U_Qg1uHgeZI/AAAAAAAADVY/BlFSnHW6t70/s1600/20140818_122833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hhhxit1Li_0/U_Qg1uHgeZI/AAAAAAAADVY/BlFSnHW6t70/s1600/20140818_122833.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So delicious. It went well with some organic <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">raspberries.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KKWpQ8HzccA/U_QhUo0K7LI/AAAAAAAADVg/5NZ5XYNM01Q/s1600/20140818_122951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KKWpQ8HzccA/U_QhUo0K7LI/AAAAAAAADVg/5NZ5XYNM01Q/s1600/20140818_122951.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I snacked on a Taste of Nature bar throughout the day. It's easy to pack during a busy shift, and even eating half a bar in the morning and the afternoon can sustain me. Oh, and it's organic, gluten-free, and vegan. Canadian, too!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I chose the Quebec Cherry Carnival, which was full of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">dried cranberries, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">pumpkin seeds, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f1c232;">sesame</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f1c232;">seeds</span>.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RoRe_KW60A/U_Qh-g-6j2I/AAAAAAAADVo/HauvDUvtJZI/s1600/20140818_152948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RoRe_KW60A/U_Qh-g-6j2I/AAAAAAAADVo/HauvDUvtJZI/s1600/20140818_152948.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Udz7TUkPVXQ/U_Qiu3BIs8I/AAAAAAAADVw/Y7urqK3eKLo/s1600/20140818_153059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Udz7TUkPVXQ/U_Qiu3BIs8I/AAAAAAAADVw/Y7urqK3eKLo/s1600/20140818_153059.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are so delicious. I can't wait to try more flavors!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb1LQ3OnDUE/U_QjaKs33gI/AAAAAAAADV4/SevXfSKpSK0/s1600/20140818_153406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb1LQ3OnDUE/U_QjaKs33gI/AAAAAAAADV4/SevXfSKpSK0/s1600/20140818_153406.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a wee walk, a delicious dinner:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Panfried <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #ea9999;">trout </span>with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">fresh sage, basil, and thyme. </span>Sauteed <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">beet greens </span>with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: blue;"> garlic.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qUQlnwXlbO0/U_Qkmbhl65I/AAAAAAAADWA/HArtiLcJnKk/s1600/20140818_184754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qUQlnwXlbO0/U_Qkmbhl65I/AAAAAAAADWA/HArtiLcJnKk/s1600/20140818_184754.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Delicious side of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">sweet potato fries </span>- mildly burnt. Oops.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ka89iUG-iI/U_QkprPjtmI/AAAAAAAADWI/xXp-K08Bi8U/s1600/20140818_184816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ka89iUG-iI/U_QkprPjtmI/AAAAAAAADWI/xXp-K08Bi8U/s1600/20140818_184816.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More delicious than just processed white and beige food. Significantly healthier as well!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tell me, how much of the rainbow do you devour in a regular day?</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-88099239214117217932014-08-02T16:45:00.000-07:002014-08-02T16:46:07.676-07:00Catching Up<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been feeling ... off.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Remicade dose was doubled for my previous doses in reaction to my continued inability to achieve remission. I didn't consider that this would be much of an issue, and the pre-meds were going to presumably make the process better. However, <a href="http://courageregret.blogspot.ca/2014/06/remicade-ing.html">my experience with the pre-meds was less than delightfu</a>l.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the last two months, I've been noticing an increase in hair loss, worsening fatigue, nausea, hip pain, and general malaise. I tried improving my diet, going for walks/bike rides more frequently, and practicing good sleep hygiene. None of that seemed to make a lick of difference. Luckily, I had a pending appointment with my GI so I knew I could review my concerns at that time.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mvu9l8afIlY/U91kfTZph_I/AAAAAAAADSA/rAnIimMoW1g/s1600/20140714_090705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mvu9l8afIlY/U91kfTZph_I/AAAAAAAADSA/rAnIimMoW1g/s1600/20140714_090705.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The appointment was fairly lackluster.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My dose of Remicade was going to slowly taper down to regular dosing, pending that my symptoms don't worsen. That, and a TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) would be added to my next labwork to assess if I have a component of hypothyroidism contributing to my symptoms. I also tried to discuss the use of<a href="http://www.vsl3.ca/"> VSL#3 high-potency probiotic</a> as it was suggested to be previously by another GI physician, but I was meet with a disinterested reply - that it may or may not work, Remicade is the main basis of my disease management. Great.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been very inconsistent with taking my Imuran, as I found I was getting more infections when I was taking this medication. As well, Imuran has a slight increase in the risk of developting <a href="http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2014/38691a-eng.php">Hepatosplenic T-Cell Lymphoma. </a>I have been off it for several months. I was reminded of the use of Imuran to prevent the development of antibodies to Remicade; thus increasing it's effectiveness for a longer period. So back on the Imuran I go.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also need a Bone Mineral Density, a consideration for my hip pain and long history of prednisone use, which can be associated with early onset of osteoporosis. Fun.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life goes on, however.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-49qzxSFhjd0/U91xD5zhsnI/AAAAAAAADSg/UAyniI6XG1s/s1600/20140719_111010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-49qzxSFhjd0/U91xD5zhsnI/AAAAAAAADSg/UAyniI6XG1s/s1600/20140719_111010.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was volunteering for <a href="http://folkontherocks.com/">Folk on the Rocks</a>, a local folk festival that is full of music, food, sand, and sunshine. I was volunteering at the beer gardens, keeping the hooligans at bay and making sure everyone is having a good time!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVpPLIqlKw0/U91xLbvBFTI/AAAAAAAADSo/GEEGElYXPWI/s1600/20140719_111359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVpPLIqlKw0/U91xLbvBFTI/AAAAAAAADSo/GEEGElYXPWI/s1600/20140719_111359.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c1lnLzKVlY8/U91xLvbP57I/AAAAAAAADSs/QwbMNBCrv3U/s1600/20140719_120449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c1lnLzKVlY8/U91xLvbP57I/AAAAAAAADSs/QwbMNBCrv3U/s1600/20140719_120449.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZX-3yMlrrfY/U91xgHttcsI/AAAAAAAADTE/sk42epN-gwc/s1600/20140719_122737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZX-3yMlrrfY/U91xgHttcsI/AAAAAAAADTE/sk42epN-gwc/s1600/20140719_122737.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yNt7NxzJnc4/U91xgJ2CawI/AAAAAAAADTA/7sJr3_QWjs4/s1600/20140719_122747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yNt7NxzJnc4/U91xgJ2CawI/AAAAAAAADTA/7sJr3_QWjs4/s1600/20140719_122747.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6wYUzFYnDM/U91xewOCXpI/AAAAAAAADS4/eVhGl-7h1f8/s1600/20140720_121326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6wYUzFYnDM/U91xewOCXpI/AAAAAAAADS4/eVhGl-7h1f8/s1600/20140720_121326.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was fortunate to be volunteering with some good friends, who don't mind getting a little dirty in the sand!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IRFbPdebl1s/U91yyp_LX1I/AAAAAAAADTU/fa9-PEbALaA/s1600/20140719_124504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IRFbPdebl1s/U91yyp_LX1I/AAAAAAAADTU/fa9-PEbALaA/s1600/20140719_124504.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Volunteer Shirts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EmSUwlKqIz8/U91y4zZe8KI/AAAAAAAADTk/wv1_WZ_OWE4/s1600/20140719_114654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EmSUwlKqIz8/U91y4zZe8KI/AAAAAAAADTk/wv1_WZ_OWE4/s1600/20140719_114654.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JdftWusc7qE/U91yzTpurXI/AAAAAAAADTc/KS_7SUg8jY0/s1600/20140720_121141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JdftWusc7qE/U91yzTpurXI/AAAAAAAADTc/KS_7SUg8jY0/s1600/20140720_121141.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little friend Sarah! Isn't she cute?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although I wanted to dance in the sand all night, after volunteering and being in the sun all day I went home earlier for a shower, food, and sleep. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My feet were filthy!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvHl8vrfsxU/U910A3r277I/AAAAAAAADTs/P7fs-BHaZjI/s1600/20140719_123514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvHl8vrfsxU/U910A3r277I/AAAAAAAADTs/P7fs-BHaZjI/s1600/20140719_123514.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Zing! booth was also there, so I was able to indulge in vegan and gluten-free foods. I had about two blueberry smoothies and black bean brownies each day. They were DELICIOUS!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHxwm1K-oOI/U910bJuZ15I/AAAAAAAADT0/SethTMcuxB0/s1600/20140719_121812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHxwm1K-oOI/U910bJuZ15I/AAAAAAAADT0/SethTMcuxB0/s1600/20140719_121812.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also went one evening to check out <a href="http://theatreonthelake.wordpress.com/">Theater on the Lake</a>, in which a stage is quite literally on the lake. My brother wrote and directed a play, which was fantastic. There were also some clowns from Argentina that were ... bizarre. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaamYoJ-tPQ/U911oghQS9I/AAAAAAAADUA/UgGGrt43BDo/s1600/20140725_185928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaamYoJ-tPQ/U911oghQS9I/AAAAAAAADUA/UgGGrt43BDo/s1600/20140725_185928.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have also been spending time with Mocha and my Dad, going fishing on calm nights. Unfortunately, lots of bites but no fish!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqi2khozdH0/U9121E7LNtI/AAAAAAAADUQ/nrUayPESIHM/s1600/20140722_175515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqi2khozdH0/U9121E7LNtI/AAAAAAAADUQ/nrUayPESIHM/s1600/20140722_175515.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Awwww look at that face! She's such a cutie!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_3mBb5MoV4M/U912vhIdLzI/AAAAAAAADUI/jua7WfKViVM/s1600/20140722_191816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_3mBb5MoV4M/U912vhIdLzI/AAAAAAAADUI/jua7WfKViVM/s1600/20140722_191816.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This last week has been very lazy, due to worsening of my fatigue, malaise, and sleep issues. I am hoping that, with time, this will improve. I have my next Remicade infusion in a few weeks, so I'm hoping for the best.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the meantime: Lots of sleep, nutritious food, and being kind to myself.</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-29956964204998003512014-07-16T19:59:00.000-07:002014-07-16T20:00:45.527-07:00Eat it Tuesday (from Monday ... on Wednesday...)<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I did have good intentions.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I photographed what I ate on Monday. I intended to make a "Eat it Tuesday" post on Tuesday. And, well ... here we are.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am easily distracted by shiny, pretty things. I also prefer sleeping to pretty much everything else, so sleep has won over this week. I've also been enjoying the pretty, aromatic smoky environment I'm presently living in. Many, many forest fires:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdVFCS617Lw/U8ckFDzw6yI/AAAAAAAADQM/XTaX68kPQlA/s1600/Picture+12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdVFCS617Lw/U8ckFDzw6yI/AAAAAAAADQM/XTaX68kPQlA/s1600/Picture+12.png" height="506" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nwt.sixtiethparallel?fref=ts">NWT Sixtieth Parallel on FB</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mighty and stunning.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer just isn't the same without smoke and ash in the air.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, deliciousness from Monday:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4gaoXsBfLU/U8clZDbDzoI/AAAAAAAADQY/dD63A4-vg0I/s1600/20140708_072522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4gaoXsBfLU/U8clZDbDzoI/AAAAAAAADQY/dD63A4-vg0I/s1600/20140708_072522.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Started my day with chia seed pudding and organic raspberries. With lots of cinnamon!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the morning I had a few cups of Yogi Kombucha Green Tea. I was feeling pretty fatigued on Monday morning, so a boost was required!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SZFy24P8_BY/U8csKPap7BI/AAAAAAAADQs/DqITH-YmDsI/s1600/20140714_132127%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SZFy24P8_BY/U8csKPap7BI/AAAAAAAADQs/DqITH-YmDsI/s1600/20140714_132127%25280%2529.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PkeO5Ur25E4/U8csvmd5Q6I/AAAAAAAADQ0/LasyMQilskU/s1600/20140714_132131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PkeO5Ur25E4/U8csvmd5Q6I/AAAAAAAADQ0/LasyMQilskU/s1600/20140714_132131.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then for lunch there was some broccoli soup I had made the night before. I'm finding that I'm having a bit more of a time crunch over the lunch hour, so having something prepared beforehand is making my life MUCH easier.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUaHDILRwbg/U8cuKyeHgiI/AAAAAAAADRA/vMqbHJkGZrU/s1600/20140714_162955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUaHDILRwbg/U8cuKyeHgiI/AAAAAAAADRA/vMqbHJkGZrU/s1600/20140714_162955.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loaded the soup with nutritional yeast, which gives it a nice cheesy flavor (without the nasty effect I get from dairy). </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The afternoon was one of my favorite snacks. Organic, of course!:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NE6J3g9Ek0o/U8cwa_u61gI/AAAAAAAADRI/1QSNIuQLbJY/s1600/20140707_152259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NE6J3g9Ek0o/U8cwa_u61gI/AAAAAAAADRI/1QSNIuQLbJY/s1600/20140707_152259.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nom nom nom ...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dinner was some leftover <a href="http://courageregret.blogspot.ca/2014/07/cookbook-review-oh-she-glows-cookbook.html">Luxurious Tomato Basil Pasta</a>. It's so good. SO. GOOD.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hqt7sT7CrD0/U8cx3EnybhI/AAAAAAAADRU/GkWDmKLwwgo/s1600/20140714_120724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hqt7sT7CrD0/U8cx3EnybhI/AAAAAAAADRU/GkWDmKLwwgo/s1600/20140714_120724.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My after dinner snack is my latest guilty pleasure. I randomly came across these chips while on a Westjet flight and they were giving out sample bags. I instantly fell in love. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love the Hardbite All Natural chips - just a little bit of salt and crunch. I could inhale a bag in one sitting if I let myself!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They are also made in BC, gluten-free, vegan, no MSG!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PwtkqXKh_B4/U8c3mTGV6JI/AAAAAAAADRk/7RE86n4bVMk/s1600/20140714_212442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PwtkqXKh_B4/U8c3mTGV6JI/AAAAAAAADRk/7RE86n4bVMk/s1600/20140714_212442.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I may have finished this bag in a mere few days...</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hcE84IiMQiU/U8c3ura3_SI/AAAAAAAADRs/suuSDTrOF_I/s1600/20140714_212451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hcE84IiMQiU/U8c3ura3_SI/AAAAAAAADRs/suuSDTrOF_I/s1600/20140714_212451.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I went to the grocery store and there were no more Hardbite All-Natural chips left. It was tragic. Almost.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The really tragic thing would be ignoring the beautiful, clear sky and crisp air this evening. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think it's time for a stroll around <a href="http://ykonline.ca/tag/old-town/">Old Town</a>.</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-47159723276293817702014-07-13T22:11:00.000-07:002014-07-14T09:20:12.173-07:00Cookbook Review: The Oh She Glows Cookbook<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a>.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hJjbIjcH1kg/U8NXh9c_eZI/AAAAAAAADOc/9eEqJ0aD_nw/s1600/20140601_131420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hJjbIjcH1kg/U8NXh9c_eZI/AAAAAAAADOc/9eEqJ0aD_nw/s1600/20140601_131420.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I discovered this plethora of plant-based deliciousness several years ago, when I was avoiding animal products in my diet. Her website has concise recipes, beautiful food photography, cute commentary ... and the recipes DELIVER! There are so many recipes that I have bookmarked on my computer, and I refer to them frequently. Here are a few of my favorites:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2010/09/08/high-protein-garlic-mashed-potatoes/">High Protein Garlic Mashed Potatoes </a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/09/06/roasted-tomato-basil-pesto/">Roasted Tomato Basil Pesto</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2014/05/08/two-layer-raw-chocolate-brownies/">Two Layer Raw Chocolate Brownies</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/01/18/curried-lentil-soup/">Curried Lentil Soup</a></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Angela Liddon is a self-trained chef, whom found herself seeking inventive and delicious ways to incorporate nutritious plant-based meals into her life. She had previously struggled with an eating disorder and chronic IBS, and had overcome these challenges and created her blog. Years later, she is now an author - and a mommy-to-be (her pregnancy updates are pretty darn cute - <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/categories/baby/">check them out here</a>).</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thusly, I had high expectations for the cookbook. I was expecting the same beautiful photos, amazing recipes, and catchy commentary.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Visual Appeal</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XOYzUoNnuKM/U8QDA86d9GI/AAAAAAAADP8/vUa_HbUoSPU/s1600/20140601_131436-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XOYzUoNnuKM/U8QDA86d9GI/AAAAAAAADP8/vUa_HbUoSPU/s1600/20140601_131436-1-1.jpg" height="640" width="584" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beautiful photography. Throughout the book.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wanted to eat the meals right off the page. Everything looks delectable!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Recipe Ease</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made two recipes for two separate occasions. The first was Luxurious Tomato-Basil Pasta ...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0UGo9Yq61E/U8NZYcrpDfI/AAAAAAAADO4/HdYCEiUiuwY/s1600/20140706_162333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0UGo9Yq61E/U8NZYcrpDfI/AAAAAAAADO4/HdYCEiUiuwY/s1600/20140706_162333.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and the second was Glowing Strawberry-Mango Guacamole.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4lknS_M-Gg/U8NZ0x0coPI/AAAAAAAADPA/q59gudXWQfM/s1600/20140713_210952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4lknS_M-Gg/U8NZ0x0coPI/AAAAAAAADPA/q59gudXWQfM/s1600/20140713_210952.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The recipes are laid out in a simple manner, with clear instructions, and with tips for those who might want other alternatives. For the guacamole, I did not opt to add jalapeno!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Replication</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The photo:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvsytG8K21k/U8NY-U9wWLI/AAAAAAAADO0/_OyaRu-PlqI/s1600/20140706_162313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvsytG8K21k/U8NY-U9wWLI/AAAAAAAADO0/_OyaRu-PlqI/s1600/20140706_162313.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The reality:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dk7ApcYeRHk/U8Nb8FT4GhI/AAAAAAAADPQ/y1OcRu1eSUo/s1600/20140706_190907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dk7ApcYeRHk/U8Nb8FT4GhI/AAAAAAAADPQ/y1OcRu1eSUo/s1600/20140706_190907.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The end results were not as glamorous as the photos from the cookbook, but they were attractive and smelled tasty. That was also the pasta sauce before the actual pasta was added - I promise it was much prettier when it was all completed!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Flavor</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WnsqPJyzyg/U8NcWlASEZI/AAAAAAAADPY/KmEW8_EVpdo/s1600/20140706_195928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WnsqPJyzyg/U8NcWlASEZI/AAAAAAAADPY/KmEW8_EVpdo/s1600/20140706_195928.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oops!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Luxurious Tomato-Basil Pasta was so delicious, that my dinner partner and myself inhaled it before any photos could be taken. It was really that good. Creamy texture, flavorful, filling. I may have even had seconds!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Guacamole was prepared the evening before a work potluck/BBQ. I prepared all of the ingredients and tossed them together before I headed for the gathering the next day.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F16z9g-MgAM/U8NeYfSBjvI/AAAAAAAADPk/n57pGXmIF3E/s1600/20140711_160848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F16z9g-MgAM/U8NeYfSBjvI/AAAAAAAADPk/n57pGXmIF3E/s1600/20140711_160848.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a hit. I was told by several co-workers that they enjoyed the mango guacamole/salsa, which is an impressive feat considering the amount of cookies/cupcakes/dip, etc that was available.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since I had doubled the recipe, I had some leftovers. I used them atop salad as a "dressing", and it was FANTASTIC.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-brlUslUKKC4/U8NfHD0UhrI/AAAAAAAADPs/-w-eFxq4Ae0/s1600/20140713_204455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-brlUslUKKC4/U8NfHD0UhrI/AAAAAAAADPs/-w-eFxq4Ae0/s1600/20140713_204455.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Taste Test</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pasta was enjoyed by my dining partner, although he added some chili peppers to it. He tends to be fond of spicy foods, so I think it's more an ode to his own personal tastes than him disliking the pasta. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The salsa was enjoyed by my co-workers. As well, I shared some with a friend who was raving that he enjoyed it - eating it by the spoonful, or with chips!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h4ug25TWYYc/U8Na_SVPx0I/AAAAAAAADPM/9-tLSLhMyls/s1600/20140706_162223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h4ug25TWYYc/U8Na_SVPx0I/AAAAAAAADPM/9-tLSLhMyls/s1600/20140706_162223.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I continued to be impressed with the Oh She Glows cookbook, as I continue to try other recipes with great success. For anyone who's never been (you're seriously missing out!) - check out her blog as well: <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">HIGHLY recommended, especially for anyone looking to incorporate more nutritious, plant-based meals into their repertoire that also tastes fantastic.</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-81851044700391804242014-07-05T20:41:00.002-07:002014-07-05T20:44:57.491-07:00Mango Lime and Raspberry Agave Chia Drinks (Ch-Ch-Ch-CHIA!!)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was walking through my local co-op, search for my regular organic and healthy food items for the week, when I came across this new product next to the organic salad mixes:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAUpMGCFTIg/U7i4Y_meh7I/AAAAAAAADL4/7a42ZG2l1bg/s1600/10530900_10154524172150001_9012816853385579350_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAUpMGCFTIg/U7i4Y_meh7I/AAAAAAAADL4/7a42ZG2l1bg/s1600/10530900_10154524172150001_9012816853385579350_n.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love me some chia seeds. I eat this nutritious powerhouse almost daily. They are dark little seeds that become gelatinous when exposed to fluid. Aztecs were rumored to chow down on this before going into battle, as it was believed to provide energy in strength. If it's good enough for the Aztecs, I figure, it's good enough for Red! As well, it comes from a flowering plant in the mint family, and is harvested in Guatemala and Mexico. Oh, and they were once used for this purpose:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhkUS3pvTJk/U7i-HZT9aaI/AAAAAAAADMo/MbNQWPNfNWw/s1600/chia-pet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhkUS3pvTJk/U7i-HZT9aaI/AAAAAAAADMo/MbNQWPNfNWw/s1600/chia-pet.jpg" height="492" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CH-CH-CH - Chia!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They are packed with Omega-3 fatty acid, fiber, manganese, calcium, protein, antioxidants, amongst other amazing things! The Ceveland Clinic even boasts that in some studies, Chia Seeds are found to lower cholesterol and C-Reactive Protein in some people with Type II Diabetes and may lower cholesterol. Read more about that <a href="http://www.clevelandclinicwellness.com/Features/Pages/Chia-Seeds.aspx">here</a>. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">... but for these wee bottles it seems fairly pricey. I mean, <b>$4.29?!</b> Then again, it is organic. I had a quick skim of the ingredients to see what magic potion is in these elixirs to make them so magical:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUj55wpd4xM/U7i48KwC_3I/AAAAAAAADMA/LHVvyeGer2Q/s1600/20140705_162444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUj55wpd4xM/U7i48KwC_3I/AAAAAAAADMA/LHVvyeGer2Q/s1600/20140705_162444.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nothing too extravagant. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rather than purchasing these fancy drinks, I decided to experiment at home and make my own versions - for much cheaper - and without "natural flavours". It's also fully gluten-free and vegan!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made two versions: <b>Mango Lime Chia </b>and <b>Raspberry Agave Chia.</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ncRWuddClCI/U7i5hgxm-_I/AAAAAAAADMI/tDAVD8BkVoA/s1600/20140705_192655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ncRWuddClCI/U7i5hgxm-_I/AAAAAAAADMI/tDAVD8BkVoA/s1600/20140705_192655.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The recipes were quite simple, with ingredients I already had at home (and are easily available in YK at this time of year!)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Raspberry Agave Chia Drink</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvhM6CnUAbo/U7i7T24y33I/AAAAAAAADMU/eagjajOZEbk/s1600/20140705_185034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kvhM6CnUAbo/U7i7T24y33I/AAAAAAAADMU/eagjajOZEbk/s1600/20140705_185034.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup frozen (or fresh) raspberries</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp agave nectar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp maple syrup</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp fresh lemon juice</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cups water</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp chia seeds</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Mango Lime Chia Drink</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHrPCZ2TjBY/U7i7rjGRyqI/AAAAAAAADMc/sgc0SDj4cak/s1600/20140705_190842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHrPCZ2TjBY/U7i7rjGRyqI/AAAAAAAADMc/sgc0SDj4cak/s1600/20140705_190842.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 fresh mango</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp maple syrup</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp agave nectar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tbsp fresh lime juice</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cups water</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tbsp chia seeds</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Recipe</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The recipe is fairly similar for both, easy, and takes very little time. Perfect for hot summer days when you want a refreshing, nutritious drink. Or, I imagine it can be easily prepared the night before and be enjoyed while hiking, fishing, or out cycling!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First step, put the chia seeds and 2 cups of water in a glass jar. Set aside and let the chia thicken:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vYVMxIksRw/U7i_FwbkxaI/AAAAAAAADMw/2lt8nv8fwbI/s1600/20140705_192419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vYVMxIksRw/U7i_FwbkxaI/AAAAAAAADMw/2lt8nv8fwbI/s1600/20140705_192419.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Above is what it looks like after 20 minutes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the chia is thickening, mix the fruits/berries with one cup of water until smooth:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nNpwcoG8uGg/U7jAqsHiflI/AAAAAAAADNI/4wkOWsSYyzo/s1600/20140705_191509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nNpwcoG8uGg/U7jAqsHiflI/AAAAAAAADNI/4wkOWsSYyzo/s1600/20140705_191509.jpg" height="400" width="300" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9lkP00xoveQ/U7jAohF2HVI/AAAAAAAADNA/f9nva7pYDps/s1600/20140705_185338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9lkP00xoveQ/U7jAohF2HVI/AAAAAAAADNA/f9nva7pYDps/s1600/20140705_185338.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The mango with water, and the raspberry with water.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, add the fruit-water mixtures and remaining ingredients into the glass jars, mix, then either drink or put in the fridge to enjoy cold!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5kbmx2pjeI/U7jB2nUNcTI/AAAAAAAADNM/xKv2AJDZS9U/s1600/20140705_192655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5kbmx2pjeI/U7jB2nUNcTI/AAAAAAAADNM/xKv2AJDZS9U/s1600/20140705_192655.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I left them in the fridge to cool, then enjoyed on my balcony while enjoying the sunshine.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TN6oLwTQbM8/U7jDVsDB39I/AAAAAAAADNY/1Dg33x7UWKs/s1600/20140705_201204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TN6oLwTQbM8/U7jDVsDB39I/AAAAAAAADNY/1Dg33x7UWKs/s1600/20140705_201204.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I recommend classing it up with some wine glasses. I may have to invite some of my friends over sometime soon to enjoy these - they are too cute and delicious to hog all to myself!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't pick a favorite between the two. The raspberry reminds me of a margarita and the mango is like a refreshing summer cocktail - without the alcohol, and full of nutrients!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HqMr_123784/U7jEFuGjpWI/AAAAAAAADNg/HjYotWzUWNw/s1600/20140705_201155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HqMr_123784/U7jEFuGjpWI/AAAAAAAADNg/HjYotWzUWNw/s1600/20140705_201155.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There you have it - chia drinks that are really inexpensive, delicious, and simple to make!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I intend on making other versions of this very soon - I'll be sure to post if they are as successful and delicious as these ones!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm off to enjoy a beautiful summer evening with friends. Tell me, what is your favorite "healthy" drink?</span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-12226882339147162072014-07-02T22:02:00.001-07:002014-07-02T22:04:32.176-07:00Bonne Fete Du Canada!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy (Belated) Canada Day, Eh!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-deDljUoPNyo/U7S6tT5MghI/AAAAAAAADJo/n7a_D4rtfnY/s1600/flag-of-canada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-deDljUoPNyo/U7S6tT5MghI/AAAAAAAADJo/n7a_D4rtfnY/s1600/flag-of-canada.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday. For those of use who had the day as a statutory day off ... did today also feel like a second Monday this week for you?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spend the morning doing, as I LOVE to on my days off ... slept in. And missed the Canada Day Parade. Not sorry about it whatsoever.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After some running around with a busy person, I went down to check out the festivities solo and found a large crowd enjoying some live music, draw prizes, sunshine, and the Farmers Market!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5f-dTLVWS38/U7TKK0RuIVI/AAAAAAAADJ4/8qX_Fxf6jFU/s1600/20140701_134949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5f-dTLVWS38/U7TKK0RuIVI/AAAAAAAADJ4/8qX_Fxf6jFU/s1600/20140701_134949.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajdw6XozqY4/U7TMs1VXQjI/AAAAAAAADKE/_iGc3lh8xmg/s1600/20140701_140149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajdw6XozqY4/U7TMs1VXQjI/AAAAAAAADKE/_iGc3lh8xmg/s1600/20140701_140149.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have NO idea why my smartphone started taking such ethereal photos, but bear with me. Imagine it's a Northern fairy-tale or something.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TiMQaEJLDhY/U7TRkjjiGLI/AAAAAAAADKU/q_MDgiI3QiM/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TiMQaEJLDhY/U7TRkjjiGLI/AAAAAAAADKU/q_MDgiI3QiM/s1600/Untitled.jpg" height="518" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Eggs!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-daOwkdwL9c0/U7TSQHKw3FI/AAAAAAAADKc/0RLD7XkCF9o/s1600/20140701_141243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-daOwkdwL9c0/U7TSQHKw3FI/AAAAAAAADKc/0RLD7XkCF9o/s1600/20140701_141243.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried whitefish!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While wandering through the event, I ran into a very festive friend of mine:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3mEm7Syyt8/U7TTpNCrtOI/AAAAAAAADKo/1cuTd27rWHk/s1600/20140701_135906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3mEm7Syyt8/U7TTpNCrtOI/AAAAAAAADKo/1cuTd27rWHk/s1600/20140701_135906.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With a kilt and all!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jay Bear was the MC for the event - hilarious as always - and rocking the red, white, and 'hawk! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I am sad to say I missed out on this adorable little furball, but I'm giving credit to Jay Bear for taking the photo and sharing the absurd cuteness:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6E92FNWpX_A/U7TV1l5Qe9I/AAAAAAAADK0/nKFUHBg6yUw/s1600/10154894_10204241738464457_720783934694351342_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6E92FNWpX_A/U7TV1l5Qe9I/AAAAAAAADK0/nKFUHBg6yUw/s1600/10154894_10204241738464457_720783934694351342_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Awwwwwwwwwww</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had missed breakfast (Oops!), so my next mission was to find something nutritious and tasty to enjoy. Considering it was a quite warm day, it also had to be refreshing.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks Buddah for my friend Lorie, the holistic nutritionist, and her raw food booth at the Farmers Market!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pK-RNgMnNaM/U7TdQd_ypVI/AAAAAAAADLE/F0eTR76C3DI/s1600/20140701_140328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pK-RNgMnNaM/U7TdQd_ypVI/AAAAAAAADLE/F0eTR76C3DI/s1600/20140701_140328.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hi Lorie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most of the food had been picked over, but there was some juice left. I picked up some orange-ginger concoction. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tYKBaTJURCI/U7TgyhjIziI/AAAAAAAADLM/iOKrcq8lD-0/s1600/20140701_140435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tYKBaTJURCI/U7TgyhjIziI/AAAAAAAADLM/iOKrcq8lD-0/s1600/20140701_140435.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just what I was looking for! Delicious and full of vitamin C and beta carotene!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9OfuWfRKpOw/U7ThTIds1wI/AAAAAAAADLU/y3QF0N83uXc/s1600/20140701_151334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9OfuWfRKpOw/U7ThTIds1wI/AAAAAAAADLU/y3QF0N83uXc/s1600/20140701_151334.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also picked up a jar of kimchi, which is a fermented Korean side dish. It is apparently spicy in taste. It's main benefit is that it is a potent probiotic, but is also has benefit in lowering cholesterol, antioxidant, anti-aging, and more! There<a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24456350"> is a study in the Journal of Medicinal Food</a> that outlined all of the amazing benefits of kimchi.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is my first time trying it, but Lorie suggested it is tasty with fish, chicken, and atop salads.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I finished meandering around the Farmers Market, I went home to have some leftover fried rice and tend to my garden:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoC38KExviE/U7Ti7Z2N2cI/AAAAAAAADLg/67vrWkfSVEA/s1600/20140701_151344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoC38KExviE/U7Ti7Z2N2cI/AAAAAAAADLg/67vrWkfSVEA/s1600/20140701_151344.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I may only have had these herbs for a week, but I am so happy they look so vibrant! I have absolutely no green thumb, so I am excited I am keeping these healthy and alive. I am most excited about the basil - as I love Italian style meals and it is hard to come by fresh basil in my neck of the country! There is also some mint and parsley scattered throughout there - these will be for juicing or flavoring water.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2oEANnbJGY/U7TjpJA7ElI/AAAAAAAADLo/AfW34jrCcaI/s1600/20140701_175136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2oEANnbJGY/U7TjpJA7ElI/AAAAAAAADLo/AfW34jrCcaI/s1600/20140701_175136.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A perfect end to a perfect day: A good book, tea, and the sunset...</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-88328122874275097192014-06-29T20:11:00.003-07:002014-06-29T20:12:10.136-07:00Remicade-ing<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I Remicade-ed on Friday.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was a wee bit anxious about this treatment - this is my second infusion at a higher dose - and last time I had a bit of an infusion reaction. Chills, nausea, significant fatigue ... I was not looking forward to experiencing this again. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However... it's that or a flare. I'll take the side effects over full-blown UC.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cZnsj_W_tpw/U7C_8nxUqbI/AAAAAAAADH0/L8XS1iAeZ0k/s1600/20140627_081817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cZnsj_W_tpw/U7C_8nxUqbI/AAAAAAAADH0/L8XS1iAeZ0k/s1600/20140627_081817.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was not as prepped as usual, as sleep won in the early morning. I made a chocolate-flavored green smoothie that I drank from a coffee mug. It's speckled with chia seeds and bits of coconut oil!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJZXEsK4HWE/U7DC80TlDnI/AAAAAAAADH8/6DjOwkYGuKE/s1600/20140627_111437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJZXEsK4HWE/U7DC80TlDnI/AAAAAAAADH8/6DjOwkYGuKE/s1600/20140627_111437.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite my lack of morning preparation, I did manage to pack lunch and snacks. A necessity considering the state of most hospital food.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mmmmm organic blueberries!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VP1k1tMn44M/U7DFUMdmhuI/AAAAAAAADII/wHDC25Oag5A/s1600/20140627_111720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VP1k1tMn44M/U7DFUMdmhuI/AAAAAAAADII/wHDC25Oag5A/s1600/20140627_111720.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also brought myself some reading material:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QeP0Qf9ms30/U7DF3ZdfHeI/AAAAAAAADIQ/S-QcahYKNQA/s1600/20140627_112354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QeP0Qf9ms30/U7DF3ZdfHeI/AAAAAAAADIQ/S-QcahYKNQA/s1600/20140627_112354.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am aware that I don't need to lose significant amounts of weight, but I loved her first book <i>Meals that Health Inflammation</i> (review to come!). She has such an incredible way of simplifying the science of nutritious eating, and her recipes are stellar. It was an enjoyable ready during lapses of consciousness.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ypYt_6sIbSg/U7DHitv0V3I/AAAAAAAADIc/x53z4iCFy7s/s1600/20140627_110432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ypYt_6sIbSg/U7DHitv0V3I/AAAAAAAADIc/x53z4iCFy7s/s1600/20140627_110432.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, due to my infusion reaction, I was offered pre-meds. I was never given these previously, as I tolerated the infusions fairly well. It seemed fairy innocent: oral tylenol, IV benadryl, and IV steroids. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the IV benadryl was infusion, I noticed that my left forearm was itchy. I figured it was the tape (some types of surgical tape give my rashes), so I removed the tape from my arm. When the IV steroids began running, at a higher rate than the benadryl, I noticed a burning to my forearm.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then excruciating pain.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YARQvgn0Hpc/U7DNUTRo1lI/AAAAAAAADIs/AnW617ifh-k/s1600/20140627_110443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YARQvgn0Hpc/U7DNUTRo1lI/AAAAAAAADIs/AnW617ifh-k/s1600/20140627_110443.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was rubbing my arm furiously and sought out the nurse, whom brought me a warm blanket to wrap my arm in. I am sure I was a sight: deep breathing, my left arm wrapped in a huge blanket, and shaking my arm to lessen the pain.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When the pain finally ceased several minutes later (which, in my mind, felt like forever) I was hit suddenly with incredible dizziness and mental fog. I was stunned beyond belief. I couldn't even read my book, as the sentences seems nonsensical. I was too nervous to try and stand/walk to see if that would improve the situation as.... I wasn't sure if I would be able to stand!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eventually powerful fatigue set in. I tried to fight it, as I was getting my vital signs checked every 10 minutes and didn't want to mess up my sleep routine. Despite my best efforts ... I fell fast asleep. For two hours. Waking up intermittently when my blood pressure cuff would inflate and to have the Sa02 monitor place on my finger, but falling asleep promptly after. The nurse left the blood pressure cuff on my arm to make this process easier, and I was in complete agreement. Less maneuvering and more sleep.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqUTIzpe63g/U7DOP3lJRcI/AAAAAAAADI0/zyKiMwJj3ho/s1600/20140627_150222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EqUTIzpe63g/U7DOP3lJRcI/AAAAAAAADI0/zyKiMwJj3ho/s1600/20140627_150222.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I eventually woke up, drowsy and foggy, but was able to feed myself and flip through a few pages of my book. I was still feeling a bit dumfounded from my reaction to the benadryl and/or steroid, but was relieved I seemed to be recovering.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lunch was a mixed greens salad, strawberries, sprouts, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and maple cider dressing.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8r-ijO7fx9I/U7DPGx2xS7I/AAAAAAAADI8/tVxok2W2178/s1600/20140627_152424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8r-ijO7fx9I/U7DPGx2xS7I/AAAAAAAADI8/tVxok2W2178/s1600/20140627_152424.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Delicious and light.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I got up for a short stroll along the tiny unit, just to wake myself up and gain more energy. I had to drag my little friend with me as I trudged along.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUu9IBITM-s/U7DQECVyuLI/AAAAAAAADJE/oeHgklCd2RY/s1600/20140627_113135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUu9IBITM-s/U7DQECVyuLI/AAAAAAAADJE/oeHgklCd2RY/s1600/20140627_113135.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I look tired, it's because I was still in the process of waking up!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the pre-meds and infusion, I was in the hospital much longer than usual. Apparently this will be ongoing ... which means more hospital time. Boo.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I went home I went right to bed and napped. It was a warm day, so I had my fan on full blast with my windows open. Along with my chamomile-jasmine-vanilla aromatherapy infusing ... I had a soothing sleep.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmTCWuhQDvU/U7DScxfv1sI/AAAAAAAADJQ/6tsvrkzBEYE/s1600/20140627_180415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmTCWuhQDvU/U7DScxfv1sI/AAAAAAAADJQ/6tsvrkzBEYE/s1600/20140627_180415.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My late night dinner: Organic chicken fried rice and maple-glazed brussels sprouts.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1IhhWvoOEAo/U7DTKxLDycI/AAAAAAAADJY/x4ZtAY9rSvw/s1600/20140627_202928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1IhhWvoOEAo/U7DTKxLDycI/AAAAAAAADJY/x4ZtAY9rSvw/s1600/20140627_202928.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been going over this last Remicade infusion in my mind all weekend. It was more intense than usual, and it frightened me in a significant way. I did not like feeling so out of sorts, out of control, out of my own skin. As much as I am dependent on this treatment to put me into remission, I keep pondering if there is another way. A way without side effects, hospitalization, and intense fatigue!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, I am not going to dramatize upon this at the moment. I am hoping I will have an epiphany, or some miracle with present itself, but until that time comes I will have to continue on with present treatment.</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-47710303048663237682014-06-26T21:25:00.000-07:002014-06-26T21:26:11.641-07:00Air North Food Review + Ottawa<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I recently went on an incredible trip to the nation's capital... Ottawa!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vE9tDXQEBPg/U6t-6i2_XMI/AAAAAAAADEI/jpOoQp3M6jE/s1600/DSC00228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vE9tDXQEBPg/U6t-6i2_XMI/AAAAAAAADEI/jpOoQp3M6jE/s1600/DSC00228.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was there for a conference regarding nutrition and supplement use from the perspective of Orthomolecular Medicine. It was incredible, fascinating, life-changing. My whole perspective on what to eat, research, and supplements to take - it's going to improve my own personal life and my practice for the better! I am excited to learn more!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speaking of which... being the dietary mess that I am, I was prepared to make myself a meal and snacks for the long flight to Ottawa. Then I saw this on Facebook:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uOtgOV3cZDU/U6uUh8-SQGI/AAAAAAAADEY/zYZ_xOzKbRM/s1600/Untitled.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uOtgOV3cZDU/U6uUh8-SQGI/AAAAAAAADEY/zYZ_xOzKbRM/s1600/Untitled.tiff" height="640" width="552" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whaaaat?!?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I mean, have you ever seen such delicious and FRESH looking airline food? ME NEITHER!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I had to investigate...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHkgRjIZSJw/U6uVwY5iSuI/AAAAAAAADEg/E2ScQPjQY24/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHkgRjIZSJw/U6uVwY5iSuI/AAAAAAAADEg/E2ScQPjQY24/s1600/Picture+5.png" height="298" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Humor and customer service. I like this.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Private message sent, with details of my egg/dairy/gluten issues... and reply:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UWIDrxYwaqc/U6uV-Pu64SI/AAAAAAAADEo/5TgLV2kS_KM/s1600/Untitled2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UWIDrxYwaqc/U6uV-Pu64SI/AAAAAAAADEo/5TgLV2kS_KM/s1600/Untitled2.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was looking forward to what they would put together for my flight. I had my doubts, with previous experiences of less than... delectable ... airline fare. I packed some Vega bars and protein powder in preparation for less than delicious food.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, I was wrong. Pleasantly wrong.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tfCYLCtD4A/U6uW_O7eWkI/AAAAAAAADE0/mQLZIwQfAY8/s1600/DSC00210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4tfCYLCtD4A/U6uW_O7eWkI/AAAAAAAADE0/mQLZIwQfAY8/s1600/DSC00210.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Juicy grapes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Robust and delicious berries.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chopped salad with balsamic vinaigrette. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicken curry with veggies and rice.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sweet Buddah, it was delicious. Best airline food EVER.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Needless to say...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvdl8kQnJgE/U6umRFZCRkI/AAAAAAAADFI/hCh9ZQ4_YCo/s1600/DSC00214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvdl8kQnJgE/U6umRFZCRkI/AAAAAAAADFI/hCh9ZQ4_YCo/s1600/DSC00214.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pretty much inhaled it. So good.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- Interlude: Photo Montage of Ottawa -</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqomTMA3n-4/U6yqLs28yxI/AAAAAAAADFY/vlE-TouyjTY/s1600/DSC00242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqomTMA3n-4/U6yqLs28yxI/AAAAAAAADFY/vlE-TouyjTY/s1600/DSC00242.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parliament Hill from Gatineau, Quebec</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1XltTSbeLQ/U6yq1wQbJsI/AAAAAAAADFg/C9vePaDHPa4/s1600/DSC00224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1XltTSbeLQ/U6yq1wQbJsI/AAAAAAAADFg/C9vePaDHPa4/s1600/DSC00224.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parliament Hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb0e42jdAWc/U6ywU9AvW5I/AAAAAAAADGA/E2dNIQV5uZo/s1600/DSC00247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb0e42jdAWc/U6ywU9AvW5I/AAAAAAAADGA/E2dNIQV5uZo/s1600/DSC00247.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canadian Museum of Civilization</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GO7o3lYSXM8/U6yxXtlkI5I/AAAAAAAADGI/_j6Xel0vf-o/s1600/DSC00258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GO7o3lYSXM8/U6yxXtlkI5I/AAAAAAAADGI/_j6Xel0vf-o/s1600/DSC00258.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A replica of the Wildcat Cafe. If you're from YK - you'd also be amused!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QEkn6_OKiZ8/U6yycwFS1-I/AAAAAAAADGY/_fRrYyksmx4/s1600/DSC00245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QEkn6_OKiZ8/U6yycwFS1-I/AAAAAAAADGY/_fRrYyksmx4/s1600/DSC00245.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NWT!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mHl5lb8kpHI/U6zn7yJpArI/AAAAAAAADGo/UsOFJM0kotQ/s1600/DSC00272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mHl5lb8kpHI/U6zn7yJpArI/AAAAAAAADGo/UsOFJM0kotQ/s1600/DSC00272.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious, fresh fruit in the Byward Market.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iuuk9hpuAx4/U6zoVJCKUoI/AAAAAAAADGw/hvSnGnSE7l4/s1600/DSC00277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iuuk9hpuAx4/U6zoVJCKUoI/AAAAAAAADGw/hvSnGnSE7l4/s1600/DSC00277.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tour of Parliament Hill ... who's that dapper fella in yellow?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yo5fRZ8_LNo/U6zoz4uvY4I/AAAAAAAADG4/cZ_a7MlkTc8/s1600/DSC00304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yo5fRZ8_LNo/U6zoz4uvY4I/AAAAAAAADG4/cZ_a7MlkTc8/s1600/DSC00304.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geeking out at the nature museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsk-5qHPOBM/U6zpiZQoH7I/AAAAAAAADHA/Ws-L_tAJt6o/s1600/DSC00311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsk-5qHPOBM/U6zpiZQoH7I/AAAAAAAADHA/Ws-L_tAJt6o/s1600/DSC00311.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haunted ghost tour.... OoooOOOooooo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- end interlude -</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the flight back home, another special meal was waiting for me.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmyV-Tdb6BY/U6zqqSTVzAI/AAAAAAAADHM/aR2TfwM1oNc/s1600/DSC00316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmyV-Tdb6BY/U6zqqSTVzAI/AAAAAAAADHM/aR2TfwM1oNc/s1600/DSC00316.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unwrapped:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMJugwZCGsY/U6zrdbKfihI/AAAAAAAADHU/U606SW17vEE/s1600/DSC00322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMJugwZCGsY/U6zrdbKfihI/AAAAAAAADHU/U606SW17vEE/s1600/DSC00322.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The fruit salad was ok, mostly because it had pineapple, which I really dislike (it alters the flavor of EVERYTHING). Good salad with organic balsamic vinaigrette. The rice was very sticky, reminiscent of rice I had in South East Asia. I really liked the chickpea meal... I wish there was more of that and less rice. I was full, so I didn't try the bun.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would have to say the first in-flight meal was significantly more impressive, but the second was still much better than other meals I've had with other airlines.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will defiantly be taking Air North with future flights to Ottawa or other Northern destinations. Not only was the food delicious, but I was impressed with the customer service. I was able to bring my brand-new bike back home for only $28!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And, as much fun as it was to see my nation's capital, I couldn't wait to go home.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lswX06KCp8E/U6ztz6XvDgI/AAAAAAAADHg/ooT0qkGxwFs/s1600/DSC00205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lswX06KCp8E/U6ztz6XvDgI/AAAAAAAADHg/ooT0qkGxwFs/s1600/DSC00205.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Love* the North.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-8430503295513301322014-06-15T15:07:00.000-07:002014-06-15T15:07:52.228-07:00Cookbook Review: Gluten-Free & Vegan Bread<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As promised, a post about gluten-free bread!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tend to avoid the store-bought bread options, as they have eggs and/or dairy, which I don't tolerate well. Thus, I am left with the option of either forgoing bread forever or making my own loafs.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A life without toast? Sandwiches? FRENCH TOAST?!?!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not a fun life whatsoever!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I used the cookbook <i>Gluten Free & Vegan Bread: Artisanal Recipes to Make at Home by Jennifer Katzinger.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XCUR02kFSE/U53bJuqPTyI/AAAAAAAADB4/FMiDBTuLZfg/s1600/20140608_142539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XCUR02kFSE/U53bJuqPTyI/AAAAAAAADB4/FMiDBTuLZfg/s1600/20140608_142539.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jennifer is the founder and former owner of <a href="http://www.flyingapron.com/">Flying Apron Bakery</a> in Seattle, which is certified gluten-free and vegan! This is her third cookbook.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In reviewing this cookbook, I considered Visual Appeal (aka photos), Recipe Ease, Replication (aka did it turn out?), Flavor, Taste Test.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Visual Appeal</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vCEIuJLB_z0/U53esB1Cv3I/AAAAAAAADCE/A67ZXr2zj9w/s1600/20140608_142703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vCEIuJLB_z0/U53esB1Cv3I/AAAAAAAADCE/A67ZXr2zj9w/s1600/20140608_142703.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorite parts of a good cookbook is lots of attractive, delicious photos. I find it helpful in guiding me in the right direction of how my food SHOULD look, and an appealing photo makes me want to make the recipe even more! This book has very, very attractive photos, but not very many.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqSr8s-woSg/U54W68rTV5I/AAAAAAAADDE/qf4FRgfFGPg/s1600/20140608_142749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqSr8s-woSg/U54W68rTV5I/AAAAAAAADDE/qf4FRgfFGPg/s1600/20140608_142749.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, due to the fact that gluten-free and vegan cookbooks are a rare find - I let this slide. And drooled over the photos that ARE in the cookbook.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Recipe Ease</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I chose to make the Quinoa Sandwich Bread.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBzaS3D3aFA/U53gY0AoKwI/AAAAAAAADCc/9t38D5834EM/s1600/20140608_142635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBzaS3D3aFA/U53gY0AoKwI/AAAAAAAADCc/9t38D5834EM/s1600/20140608_142635.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--3VB7oKZr4Q/U53gXKfQX7I/AAAAAAAADCU/Wy0yurvAqaU/s1600/20140608_142646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--3VB7oKZr4Q/U53gXKfQX7I/AAAAAAAADCU/Wy0yurvAqaU/s1600/20140608_142646.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I followed this recipe to point, and I found it fairly simple. This is one of the yeasted breads in the cookbook. There are some recipes that seem more complicated, such as the ones which require a wild starter and breads that need to be carefully watched as they rise, but I figured those can await another day. I did trial the Holiday Irish Soda Bread, which is considered a 'quick bread', but it mostly resembled a hockey puck. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being a Canadian girl, I can appreciate anything hockey ... but I don't want to eat a puck.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Replication</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While there is no photo in the cookbook for comparison to the recipe, but I'd say the outcome was a success:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LCjnY8hERUM/U53kHbc_i-I/AAAAAAAADCo/RnPP02x5VSs/s1600/20140608_165629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LCjnY8hERUM/U53kHbc_i-I/AAAAAAAADCo/RnPP02x5VSs/s1600/20140608_165629.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My home was filled with the scent of warm bread, and I waited impatiently for it to cool so that I could try it.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Flavor</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ky_Ahb7vj5s/U53mUQOltCI/AAAAAAAADC0/UWyKTi3tBac/s1600/20140608_165201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ky_Ahb7vj5s/U53mUQOltCI/AAAAAAAADC0/UWyKTi3tBac/s1600/20140608_165201.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This bread was nice and dense, as to be expected with gluten-free bread, but tasted light a lighter bread. I had it regular and toasted - it was great both ways... and I was pleasantly surprised it toasted fairly well (I like my bread very lightly toasted).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ukVy0pPGvag/U54XrpczyaI/AAAAAAAADDM/clCvs23e1bw/s1600/20140609_172944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ukVy0pPGvag/U54XrpczyaI/AAAAAAAADDM/clCvs23e1bw/s1600/20140609_172944.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I trialled freezing the bread, as I don't eat bread very often so I usually freeze loafs. I sliced the bread, wrapped each slice in plastic wrap, then put into a large freezer bag.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And waited three days.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was solid as a rock, but once it was popped into the toaster ... good as fresh!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTA2vcDFBvI/U54YM0QsO3I/AAAAAAAADDY/mVZ7Tl8KNjk/s1600/20140608_170054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTA2vcDFBvI/U54YM0QsO3I/AAAAAAAADDY/mVZ7Tl8KNjk/s1600/20140608_170054.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite way to eat this bread is toasted, with organic PB and honey. Delicious!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Taste Test</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite people to taste-test my recipes on are my friends, and in this case it was a gluten-eating, non-vegan friend. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He approved, said it tasted as good as regular bread. Success!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will be making further recipes from this book and will post to review, my next plan is to create this:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4JQ9db4U3Y/U54Y_M-MLsI/AAAAAAAADDg/YavJPDbnbq4/s1600/20140608_142731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4JQ9db4U3Y/U54Y_M-MLsI/AAAAAAAADDg/YavJPDbnbq4/s1600/20140608_142731.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yum.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'd better hurry off, as I have a plane to catch to Canada's capital city: Ottawa, Ontario!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have a fantastic weekend!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-5790307846270935662014-06-10T21:09:00.001-07:002014-06-10T21:09:34.474-07:00Tasty Tuesday: Something RAW <div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night I was in bed very early. Like, reading a good book in bed at 1900. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, despite my best efforts, I was not asleep until approximately 2300. I blame the midnight sun. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The sun sets at 2330. And rises at 0343.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seriously.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TGdBwnb-aBs/U5elxpod1ZI/AAAAAAAAC_s/XVH6Ap_EOy8/s1600/20140610_070621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TGdBwnb-aBs/U5elxpod1ZI/AAAAAAAAC_s/XVH6Ap_EOy8/s1600/20140610_070621.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">0530. Who turned the lights on?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being the light sleeper that I am, the sun awoke me at an unholy early hour. Oh well. Might as well make the most of the opportunity!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4cQbVI-rQ/U5fLjw-6dQI/AAAAAAAAC_4/lJF73l_V6Ck/s1600/20140610_073453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4cQbVI-rQ/U5fLjw-6dQI/AAAAAAAAC_4/lJF73l_V6Ck/s1600/20140610_073453.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I enjoyed a cup of green tea, took my vitamins, and read a magazine at my leisure. It was nice to slowly enjoy my morning, rather than hectically trying to get breakfast made, get dressed, and pack lunch. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0vtnV0Xj-c/U5fMqezkehI/AAAAAAAADAA/mCs9fxTOO2w/s1600/20140610_073121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0vtnV0Xj-c/U5fMqezkehI/AAAAAAAADAA/mCs9fxTOO2w/s1600/20140610_073121.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making breakfast!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breakfast was a green smoothie: One naval orange, strawberries, 1/2 frozen banana, spinach, spirulina, coconut oil, coconut water, Vega 'tropical tango' protein powder. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Delicious, green, nutritious!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I packed it up in my Vega smoothie bottle and off to work I went - and packed along my cute pink lunch bag!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpdaUPuwPog/U5fPvXjsE5I/AAAAAAAADAY/i-wVCDZMiYg/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpdaUPuwPog/U5fPvXjsE5I/AAAAAAAADAY/i-wVCDZMiYg/s1600/Untitled.jpg" height="640" width="564" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Snacks were kiwis (which I have in surplus due to a friend recently visiting Costo and buying in bulk) and kale chips. I seemed to be more generous with the cayenne on this batch - very spicy. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hX1GuZbHKlI/U5fQCqHvWiI/AAAAAAAADAg/nr1869chIYU/s1600/20140610_153812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hX1GuZbHKlI/U5fQCqHvWiI/AAAAAAAADAg/nr1869chIYU/s1600/20140610_153812.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back home for lunch, my usual caribou broth with miso. I also had a vanilla cookie dough ball for dessert! I will post this recipe soon - it's a fantastic, vegan, gluten-free dessert that resides in the freezer. Perfect for warm summer snacking!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyp4HXRQaRI/U5fRnU2WyKI/AAAAAAAADAw/sH-ONeIlke0/s1600/20140610_124759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uyp4HXRQaRI/U5fRnU2WyKI/AAAAAAAADAw/sH-ONeIlke0/s1600/20140610_124759.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FIQsJfH9h6w/U5fRj-EAzAI/AAAAAAAADAo/Ep81oVA8KE8/s1600/20140610_122819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FIQsJfH9h6w/U5fRj-EAzAI/AAAAAAAADAo/Ep81oVA8KE8/s1600/20140610_122819.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A busy afternoon, then I met with Sarah and we went to the Farmers Market again this week. My good friend Lorie has a fantastic booth called Zing!, which is raw, vegan, and gluten-free ... a rarity in this small, Northern town. However, I knew it would be delicious as she's a fantastic cook. I ordered the raw pad thai and a brownie. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They were so, so, SO delicious.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lb2i2O6Wu4/U5fTWn-IpII/AAAAAAAADA4/D6uQsaUfOJo/s1600/20140610_174148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lb2i2O6Wu4/U5fTWn-IpII/AAAAAAAADA4/D6uQsaUfOJo/s1600/20140610_174148.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kMEpyGrnUrs/U5fTXa6Cf-I/AAAAAAAADBA/Rldh30mRskM/s1600/20140610_174153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kMEpyGrnUrs/U5fTXa6Cf-I/AAAAAAAADBA/Rldh30mRskM/s1600/20140610_174153.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't know how she does it, but it was completely satisfying and tasted incredible. The brownie hit the spot for my sweet tooth.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Later on in the evening, I went out to play squash with another friend. Needless to say ... I may have kicked some butt around the court!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5wyvegxA7Eg/U5fTzEgBc3I/AAAAAAAADBI/58J6x43f5gA/s1600/20140610_191915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5wyvegxA7Eg/U5fTzEgBc3I/AAAAAAAADBI/58J6x43f5gA/s1600/20140610_191915.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After an intense workout, it's time for a little relaxation, then bedtime!</span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-44599375050331804412014-06-07T23:30:00.000-07:002014-06-08T11:26:20.396-07:00Sickie<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been a sickie this week. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tried to fight it, drinking copious amounts of tea and going to bed early, but this virus took hold and consumed my weekend thus far. It's been worsening since Monday, and hit its peak Thursday afternoon. I went home early and stayed home Friday, spending most of my day sleeping.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Viral URTI, combined with viral-induced asthma, and a moderate flare of my UC makes for a sad, sad Red.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tUVYgDNDcVY/U5Shix_qNPI/AAAAAAAAC7c/2YFWiEVDipc/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tUVYgDNDcVY/U5Shix_qNPI/AAAAAAAAC7c/2YFWiEVDipc/s1600/Picture+5.png" height="214" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had my diffuser/humidifier running most of the day. I added eucalyptus essential oil, which I find helps to clear my sinuses and head cold. The lavender essential oil helps me to sleep. Sometimes I will take a plastic baggie with a few drops of eucalyptus in my purse when I'm not feeling well, and I will inhale the scent when my sinuses seem particularly congested. Always seems to do the trick - and no decongestants needed!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R18K6fTk8zg/U5SiAZgvZeI/AAAAAAAAC7k/txtzPkAk_gw/s1600/20140606_132226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R18K6fTk8zg/U5SiAZgvZeI/AAAAAAAAC7k/txtzPkAk_gw/s1600/20140606_132226.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've also been consistent in taking my Vitamin C, which I seem to routinely forget, in hopes it would assist in shortening the duration of my cold. Although research on this is controversial, I was willing to give this a fair go. Plus... I'd been feeling to unwell to eat my fruits and veggies.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FrVg_KzgTF8/U5SjKsdxRUI/AAAAAAAAC70/6Cp7rAyzbDA/s1600/20140607_110328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FrVg_KzgTF8/U5SjKsdxRUI/AAAAAAAAC70/6Cp7rAyzbDA/s1600/20140607_110328.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My usually beloved smoothies and green juices did not seem appetizing, so I consumed lots of mashed potatoes and caribou broth. My UC was giving me trouble, so I wanted to keep my meals low-residue and easily digestible. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also drank several cups of strong green tea daily, as the tannins are beneficial in preventing absorption of pathogens in the gut. I am caffeine sensitive, however, so I was careful to only consume it in the morning and ensure it was good quality green tea.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also had some caffeine-free echinacea tea in between bouts of green tea.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bndK_HX6Rtw/U5SmqXuTJVI/AAAAAAAAC78/kn--uUHR-qE/s1600/20140606_134113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bndK_HX6Rtw/U5SmqXuTJVI/AAAAAAAAC78/kn--uUHR-qE/s1600/20140606_134113.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Consuming fluids is crucial, so I drank (what felt like) gallons of water flavored with lemon, or mint and cucumber. It was the only way I would keep it down, as I was getting sick of drinking plain water.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sVkiooSuV8/U5SnVOr1GPI/AAAAAAAAC8E/wOZSpXyPzKw/s1600/20140606_172006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sVkiooSuV8/U5SnVOr1GPI/AAAAAAAAC8E/wOZSpXyPzKw/s1600/20140606_172006.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also made myself a spicy, sinus-busting steeped tea when I was feeling quite congested and yucky. It's quick and does the trick ... as long as you don't mind your tea with a little kick!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b>Spicy Sickie Tea</b></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGnuRXCQ4v0/U5Sn_6yWzkI/AAAAAAAAC8Q/e-V3Hr4Oqs4/s1600/20140606_174452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CGnuRXCQ4v0/U5Sn_6yWzkI/AAAAAAAAC8Q/e-V3Hr4Oqs4/s1600/20140606_174452.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp grated ginger</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lemon wedge</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pinch cayenne (or more if you're feeling adventurous!) </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Very simple: Boil water. Add ingredients to steeping pot/cup/ball. Add boiling water. Let steep 5-6 minutes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UeGcDk39Rw/U5SodTKnsjI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/bbtvFffIA5Y/s1600/20140606_175427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UeGcDk39Rw/U5SodTKnsjI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/bbtvFffIA5Y/s1600/20140606_175427.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steeping!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">... and enjoy!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTcCMrnMenA/U5So4aN_q_I/AAAAAAAAC8g/n0xYs8t7zZY/s1600/20140606_180256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTcCMrnMenA/U5So4aN_q_I/AAAAAAAAC8g/n0xYs8t7zZY/s1600/20140606_180256.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, please excuse me so I can return to my productive sick person duty of sitting on the cough and watching my new favorite show.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUzmrcjqndY/U5SphTBb3VI/AAAAAAAAC8o/5MsEyx9L4H8/s1600/20140606_170917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUzmrcjqndY/U5SphTBb3VI/AAAAAAAAC8o/5MsEyx9L4H8/s1600/20140606_170917.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-6967061802031687062014-06-03T18:16:00.000-07:002014-06-04T18:18:54.550-07:00Tasty Tuesday Attempt and the YK Farmers Market<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Murphy's Law has bested me.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had thought to myself: <i>"Tuesday. That seems like an ideal day for weekly meals postings. I don't usually have much going on"</i>. I wanted to share what my experiencing is like day-today, trying to maintain some semblance of deliciousness and consistency in eating healthy with dietary restrictions.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nope. Instead of waking up ready for a day of culinary thrill, I woke up with a cough and scratchy throat. Alongside a silent migraine. AND a chilly day.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2bCQx9w9GI/U48dw70OMcI/AAAAAAAAC4s/oNfRSCZSZRE/s1600/Picture+40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2bCQx9w9GI/U48dw70OMcI/AAAAAAAAC4s/oNfRSCZSZRE/s1600/Picture+40.png" height="128" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Very funny (but not really).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is June, right? RIGHT?!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Considering the crisp morning walk ahead, I started my morning with a cup of green tea and some light reading:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1dOSaror3F4/U48hTs1b09I/AAAAAAAAC44/WFSHlYmKuYw/s1600/20140603_072234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1dOSaror3F4/U48hTs1b09I/AAAAAAAAC44/WFSHlYmKuYw/s1600/20140603_072234.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Breakfast was a green juice (heavy on the carrots) and a slice of homemade gluten-free bread with PB and honey. I'm obvious not well, considering I couldn't finish eating this simple meal.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7uaeJYIw1k/U48isZgH0WI/AAAAAAAAC5I/iIAWCWvZkYM/s1600/20140603_075003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7uaeJYIw1k/U48isZgH0WI/AAAAAAAAC5I/iIAWCWvZkYM/s1600/20140603_075003.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pl-1mxqBWMc/U48iZq7KHbI/AAAAAAAAC5A/MJhK-aaPQMc/s1600/20140603_073452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pl-1mxqBWMc/U48iZq7KHbI/AAAAAAAAC5A/MJhK-aaPQMc/s1600/20140603_073452.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">... and considering how much I love the combination of honey and PB.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then I walked to work in the cold, cold morning air. I was not prepared at all... just a long-sleeved work shirt. Brr.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SktDb7cZYTw/U4-9tTVabDI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/KWp9EzDJZEI/s1600/20140603_151927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SktDb7cZYTw/U4-9tTVabDI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/KWp9EzDJZEI/s1600/20140603_151927.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My intentions are to flush out whatever virus/pathogen ails me, so copious amount of water with cucumber and mint leaves were consumed.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again, not feeling very hungry, so the raspberries I brought for a snack were mostly for show. I maybe ate two or three.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nW8ZRQIyjIc/U4-_Z2Bet-I/AAAAAAAAC5k/X1WufZ-nmHc/s1600/20140603_102330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nW8ZRQIyjIc/U4-_Z2Bet-I/AAAAAAAAC5k/X1WufZ-nmHc/s1600/20140603_102330.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was just not feeling it this morning.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I walked home for lunch (and to get a sweater), all I could muster was some caribou broth with miso. It was warm and soothing for my sore gut ... just what I needed!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zDJybcbNZg/U4-_8gOlKfI/AAAAAAAAC5s/UOGEVXsney0/s1600/20140603_122311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zDJybcbNZg/U4-_8gOlKfI/AAAAAAAAC5s/UOGEVXsney0/s1600/20140603_122311.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dessert: Three Mejool dates. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3fOu2piYVkc/U4_AN_C32hI/AAAAAAAAC50/tyqS8Nbdk0c/s1600/20140603_124722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3fOu2piYVkc/U4_AN_C32hI/AAAAAAAAC50/tyqS8Nbdk0c/s1600/20140603_124722.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After another cool walk to work, my kind co-worker offered me some vegan desserts she had made, with consideration to my food sensitivities. How kind!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oIAdyPBGVXk/U4_Ay1eSEJI/AAAAAAAAC6A/sRRKy41DiDY/s1600/20140603_151757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oIAdyPBGVXk/U4_Ay1eSEJI/AAAAAAAAC6A/sRRKy41DiDY/s1600/20140603_151757.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">... but they contain oats. Non gluten-free certified oats. Le sad.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, I had some snacks on hand and made myself consume them to ensure I had some semblance of nutrition to prevent the afternoon slump (note: still felt slumpy).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcClwACAsdY/U4_CS5rNgGI/AAAAAAAAC6U/UT20UP5-sks/s1600/20140603_152941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcClwACAsdY/U4_CS5rNgGI/AAAAAAAAC6U/UT20UP5-sks/s1600/20140603_152941.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l3EGM3HTAnc/U4_CNRPtOYI/AAAAAAAAC6M/yt2w5iRleFY/s1600/20140603_152808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l3EGM3HTAnc/U4_CNRPtOYI/AAAAAAAAC6M/yt2w5iRleFY/s1600/20140603_152808.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A peach (that was actually ripe and delicious) and kale chips!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After work, I headed out to sign up for some volunteering at a local folk festival this summer and to check out the YK Farmers Market!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P08eysQq2ow/U4_DKhJfGbI/AAAAAAAAC6c/TIUDeQUoojM/s1600/20140603_173745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P08eysQq2ow/U4_DKhJfGbI/AAAAAAAAC6c/TIUDeQUoojM/s1600/20140603_173745.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I didn't have the opportunity to explore it last year, so I was excited to see all of the booths. Indian food, homemade skin care products, ice cream, even a raw vegan food booth!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUF11bMjrKo/U4_DLwKFREI/AAAAAAAAC6k/AJ7AR7KJV78/s1600/20140603_174053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUF11bMjrKo/U4_DLwKFREI/AAAAAAAAC6k/AJ7AR7KJV78/s1600/20140603_174053.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zrmr6mHshfc/U4_DOAzdxUI/AAAAAAAAC6s/0iK-KN1EnEg/s1600/20140603_174330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zrmr6mHshfc/U4_DOAzdxUI/AAAAAAAAC6s/0iK-KN1EnEg/s1600/20140603_174330.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was with some friends, including celiac superhero Sarah. She was my protector from gluteny, cheesy, eggy foods. We were able to inquire with a booth selling Indian food, and found that the curry chicken and rice was appropriate. However, they mixed my rice with Nann bread (sigh, gluten), so I just had the curry chicken. It was actually quite good.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So good that I forgot to take photos of it. My bad.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again, unpictured, was dinner out with friends. I had a chicken burger on a gluten-free bun with spinach salad, in which I just ate the mandarine oranges off the salad. It's the best part, don'tchaknow?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Needless to say, after feeling less than stellar all day and wandering out in the coldish weather, I am happy to go home, have a hot shower.... and crawl into bed.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8P4GS7QE-Ps/U4_Ed_PUKsI/AAAAAAAAC60/yUbrY3xx4Bo/s1600/20140603_212845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8P4GS7QE-Ps/U4_Ed_PUKsI/AAAAAAAAC60/yUbrY3xx4Bo/s1600/20140603_212845.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-30247804405821772192014-06-01T15:52:00.000-07:002014-06-01T15:55:17.111-07:00New 'Do and What I've Been Up To (And Why My Friends Rawk)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To coincide with my thrilling (note: sarcasm) new adventures in dietary shorcomings, I've decided to FINALLY made a much-needed change.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Especially after five weeks in South East Asia. Sunshine, chlorine, salt water, wind, and no condition worked wonders for my curly, find mane of hair.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was changed quite a lot. Last February I decided to chop my hair off to shoulder length then had to endure the delight of growing one's hair out again. I fein temporary insanity - although, honestly, it was an attempt to get out bleached ends from when I thought going from my ruby-red hair to blonde was an excellent idea.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8liPDjAIY4/T_0uoZmKDCI/AAAAAAAABqg/bVdGmuEmOeA/s1600/IMGP4675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8liPDjAIY4/T_0uoZmKDCI/AAAAAAAABqg/bVdGmuEmOeA/s1600/IMGP4675.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My "blonde" phase - still a redhead despite the bleach!<br />
And... red eyes to match. My bad.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bye bye hair, circa February 2013:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5G7lLPL8aY/UOdIoDfR35I/AAAAAAAACUk/eox8xCTlCV8/s1600/20121229_135953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5G7lLPL8aY/UOdIoDfR35I/AAAAAAAACUk/eox8xCTlCV8/s1600/20121229_135953.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mid-summer with my usual red:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wz3nP9fSfNU/TQ7wNbdATwI/AAAAAAAAASI/NJ2jJNHiIzY/s1600/IMGP5514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wz3nP9fSfNU/TQ7wNbdATwI/AAAAAAAAASI/NJ2jJNHiIzY/s1600/IMGP5514.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I decided to try becoming a luscious brunette, and I am quite pleased with the results! Although many people seem to miss my usual head of auburn hair, I was ready to try something new! And look how LONG it is!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuyjaBbpIzM/U4uUftl4aEI/AAAAAAAAC28/4Y5_PZVzIfk/s1600/20140531_172709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuyjaBbpIzM/U4uUftl4aEI/AAAAAAAAC28/4Y5_PZVzIfk/s1600/20140531_172709.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
_ _ _</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Vanity aside, I am bumbling along with these dietary constraints and issues. I am extremely fortunate to have a fantastic support network - I've even discovered friends whom have celiac/diary allergies/are vegan whom have made me feel less like a foodie pariah.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I now have an impressive stash of Eastern/Indian spices which I have been using for curries and stir-fries, thanks to my good friend Christina, whom has Celiac disease. Check out this amazing red curry with basmati brown rice:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iF9y-Ydi4IA/U4uaiC4LVdI/AAAAAAAAC3U/JytTWkIRmek/s1600/20140514_191223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iF9y-Ydi4IA/U4uaiC4LVdI/AAAAAAAAC3U/JytTWkIRmek/s1600/20140514_191223.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I used a recipe from a cookbook I picked up in Chiang Mai - I had to improvise a few ingredients, but it was still tasty!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seriously, look at the stash she gave me!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hAHhE-ikGY/U4uc7u0N7mI/AAAAAAAAC3g/U4Nmq6K1Pg8/s1600/20140601_153152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hAHhE-ikGY/U4uc7u0N7mI/AAAAAAAAC3g/U4Nmq6K1Pg8/s1600/20140601_153152.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lots of amazing curries/Dahls to be made!!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have another amazing friend, Sarah (or, as I call her, Sugar Cube), whom not only has Celiac disease, also has UC like me! AND is on Remicade! She's like my long-lost colon twin! I was overly ecstatic when I discovered this last year, as I had never met another young person with UC or on Remicade - it was reassuring to find someone who harbors similar horror stories, struggles, and triumphs. It makes my seemingly small works of chronic disease seem a little less confined. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We spent a fine evening at a local pub recently, sharing our journeys over gluten-free drinks (no alcohol for me!) and attempting to play Crib. I'm still in the learning process - and our first game was on an improvised Crib board:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gdx_s2XlhKI/U4ukRTjj0aI/AAAAAAAAC3w/5uIZfq1J0tE/s1600/20140516_201632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gdx_s2XlhKI/U4ukRTjj0aI/AAAAAAAAC3w/5uIZfq1J0tE/s1600/20140516_201632.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sarah did that up herself, counting each spot!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, and I won the first game. Beginners luck at it's finest!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And finally, a friend whom also happens to be an extremely gifted Holistic Nutritionist. I first met her when my Nurse Practitioner instructors suggested I meet with her - apparently, I was very sickly looking and "grey" when I began my Masters degree. Meeting her was pivotal in my healing process. She gently guided me through several months on a low-residue, anti-inflammatory diet. She taught me the benefits of juicing. Slowly, I became stronger and more energetic - and my UC began to slow from a beastly roar to a gentle mew. With my new dietary restriction, she has been beyond helpful. In fact, I spent an afternoon with her learning to bake a loaf of gluten-free, egg-free, diary-free bread. I had searched in the stores for an alternative, but all GF breads had either dairy or eggs in it, so I was SOL.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seriously. It smelled fantastic baking. And it looked like normal bread!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36HJ8o4ERd8/U4ul3-p7B3I/AAAAAAAAC38/fFZJRr4aZ9g/s1600/20140524_175434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36HJ8o4ERd8/U4ul3-p7B3I/AAAAAAAAC38/fFZJRr4aZ9g/s1600/20140524_175434.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was nice and dense, almost like a rye bread. I tried it normal with Earth Balance, and toasted with PB and honey. It held up perfectly. I am so pleased with this - I will be making bread routinely now!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt_bMPMUslM/U4ushyP3MVI/AAAAAAAAC4M/4KxHgKKMINs/s1600/20140524_182704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt_bMPMUslM/U4ushyP3MVI/AAAAAAAAC4M/4KxHgKKMINs/s1600/20140524_182704.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seriously.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My next adventure is new recipes, to prevent me from the slump I'm already in - I've spend too many moments staring into my cupboards/fridge/store shelves and having NO IDEA what to feed myself. Thus, I will be spending the rest of this glorious Sunday reading my newest cooking seeking in inspiration. I'll keep you posted with any delicious, successful recipes!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPdIydaGdto/U4utbcPW1hI/AAAAAAAAC4U/2NdRLUKlffI/s1600/20140601_131436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPdIydaGdto/U4utbcPW1hI/AAAAAAAAC4U/2NdRLUKlffI/s1600/20140601_131436.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-74740717544998267592014-05-17T17:40:00.002-07:002014-08-30T21:22:46.644-07:00Allergies. Yay?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Upon my return home, results of my pending allergy screening were awaiting me. With bated breath, I reviewed the results. It was mostly unsurprising. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M7geiu8v4l0/U3fkzlWtsdI/AAAAAAAAC1k/3gwisQKiFPs/s1600/20140511_130051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M7geiu8v4l0/U3fkzlWtsdI/AAAAAAAAC1k/3gwisQKiFPs/s1600/20140511_130051.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I suppose I am allergic to dairy products?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had allergy screening for food done in March, as I still could not figure out why my UC was still flaring up (despite elimination diets, supplements, etc). When I was told by my well-meaning Gastroenterologist that it was time to consider more aggressive options to manage my UC, I became fearful of stronger immunosuppressants, steroids, or even surgery. Although I have been living with the recurrence of flare-ups, the thought of having to be more "aggressive" with my treatment did not cross my mind. I suppose I am accustomed to some level of feeling unwell.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was surprisingly upset by the results - I am well aware of my sensitivity to dairy products, but having certainty that my body rejects all dairy was very depressing. Add in the egg allergy and gluten-intolerance, and I felt pretty overwhelmed. I may have shed a few tears of a gluten-free wrap falling apart and after evenings out where there was nothing on a menu that I could eat besides a salad (no cheese/dressing/croutons/etc).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My saviour has been smoothies. I would have been starving every lunch if I couldn't go home and whip one of these colorful beauties up in the Vitamix.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-wwxeJ0wKs/U3fu_wvvv6I/AAAAAAAAC2A/UVAQWk9h_G0/s1600/20140512_120625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-wwxeJ0wKs/U3fu_wvvv6I/AAAAAAAAC2A/UVAQWk9h_G0/s1600/20140512_120625.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZMev1ndcwM/U3fu4oY-BOI/AAAAAAAAC1w/G79OpCoOZfg/s1600/20140124_072508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZMev1ndcwM/U3fu4oY-BOI/AAAAAAAAC1w/G79OpCoOZfg/s1600/20140124_072508.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1UBG1T06Ro/U3f23EsBl-I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/WiGQTWKlCJw/s1600/20140506_122157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1UBG1T06Ro/U3f23EsBl-I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/WiGQTWKlCJw/s1600/20140506_122157.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vqkOc-26aPs/U3fvC3O2BeI/AAAAAAAAC2I/IRubxzJILjs/s1600/20140507_122848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vqkOc-26aPs/U3fvC3O2BeI/AAAAAAAAC2I/IRubxzJILjs/s1600/20140507_122848.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Smoothies were a staple when I was at my worst health-wise, and they are my favorite source of getting in nutrients, and they happen to taste delicious. Despite their sometimes unappealing color. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I promise. They taste fantastic.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqFD0GNBAfM/U3fu9QfCuCI/AAAAAAAAC18/-5DP5c6HfII/s1600/20140506_122242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqFD0GNBAfM/U3fu9QfCuCI/AAAAAAAAC18/-5DP5c6HfII/s1600/20140506_122242.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping it classy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, and lots of green juice. My morning elixer!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another staple when my UC was out of control. I couldn't tolerate any raw vegetables, and this was the simplest way to get in nutrition from veggies without my belly being annihilated. I still enjoy a fresh-made glass each morning. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNi3hRzp-M/Ut9QURyEHlI/AAAAAAAACwc/if3mHs8HBxA/s1600/20140121_071750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNi3hRzp-M/Ut9QURyEHlI/AAAAAAAACwc/if3mHs8HBxA/s1600/20140121_071750.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm flipping through former issues of VegNews, looking for inspiration for plant-based and gluten-free dietary options. So far, it's more admiration of the culinary expertise of the writers rather than actual initiation of recipes, but that will soon come once I gain some more motivation. Cashew brie, anyone?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2An5pEwiTaY/U3f5rE6dZtI/AAAAAAAAC2o/Itm5RVk-Rpg/s1600/20140506_164630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2An5pEwiTaY/U3f5rE6dZtI/AAAAAAAAC2o/Itm5RVk-Rpg/s1600/20140506_164630.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm determined to stick to these dietary restrictions if it means an overall improvement, or dare I say it, remission of my UC. I'm going to overcome these challenges, and become even more kickass for it!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SilnpNjktrU/U3f52IXUlgI/AAAAAAAAC2w/GaFw0YNBuzg/s1600/20140511_185312%25280%2529-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SilnpNjktrU/U3f52IXUlgI/AAAAAAAAC2w/GaFw0YNBuzg/s1600/20140511_185312%25280%2529-1.jpg" height="640" width="392" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-78151893339209218642014-05-14T19:05:00.001-07:002015-03-08T12:20:20.107-07:00The Red is Back!<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Been a bit AWOL as of late. I promise I have been behaving myself. Like a proper lady.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_mtXmqBUWf0/U3QhBXnIZ-I/AAAAAAAAC1U/8Nq9EQ_Qw80/s1600/Picture+38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_mtXmqBUWf0/U3QhBXnIZ-I/AAAAAAAAC1U/8Nq9EQ_Qw80/s1600/Picture+38.png" height="160" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ahem.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway........</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn6Ut6K95Sk/U3QPVnlaEfI/AAAAAAAAC0g/pvasHqx0mvA/s1600/DSC01021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1pJVXQToNI/U3L1t8fL9dI/AAAAAAAACzo/Xes5GbPgF1w/s1600/Picture+38.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bo3vwoaWE0/U3QPH1lyKjI/AAAAAAAAC0Q/d40F2yc8BQw/s1600/DSC00658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7bo3vwoaWE0/U3QPH1lyKjI/AAAAAAAAC0Q/d40F2yc8BQw/s1600/DSC00658.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So what was I really up to?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Only having the most AMAZING time in South East Asia!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-XdZnIOlzM/U3O0ikuQJtI/AAAAAAAACz4/mX3Jsh_vqPs/s1600/DSC00538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-XdZnIOlzM/U3O0ikuQJtI/AAAAAAAACz4/mX3Jsh_vqPs/s1600/DSC00538.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I trekked through former Viet Cong jungle.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Slept under mosquito nets in small villages.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Wandered odorous and busy local markets.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfLe7z4JU5Q/U3QPF13DbTI/AAAAAAAAC0c/j8E2aCOCuB0/s1600/DSC00681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wfLe7z4JU5Q/U3QPF13DbTI/AAAAAAAAC0c/j8E2aCOCuB0/s1600/DSC00681.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was able to relax on gorgeous beaches.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ride a bicycle through rice fields.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Drink Vietnamese tea while watching scooters pass by.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GkQuMQrYPr4/U3QbeaZopEI/AAAAAAAAC0s/Z4Oinw3NWLs/s1600/DSC01076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GkQuMQrYPr4/U3QbeaZopEI/AAAAAAAAC0s/Z4Oinw3NWLs/s1600/DSC01076.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: right;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">... and also turned another year older!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: right;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: right;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After this vacation, I felt so well-rested and ready to take on real life again. And, to no surprise, to more health challenges to face upon arrival. Which I am trying to move though with a more zen approach, taking mind to the calm nature of the Buddha and kind people I encountered in South East Asia.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn6Ut6K95Sk/U3QPVnlaEfI/AAAAAAAAC0k/EcFWeBMByck/s1600/DSC01021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn6Ut6K95Sk/U3QPVnlaEfI/AAAAAAAAC0k/EcFWeBMByck/s1600/DSC01021.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-31252252459564171142014-03-05T21:24:00.002-08:002014-03-05T21:46:52.164-08:00Brrr.<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I'm fantastic at keeping up with this blog apparently. To be fair, I've been busy with my amazing new job. And life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been enjoying daily walks to work. It's a mere 6 minutes, but despite the brisk cold, it's a daily highlight. Each morning has presented a few extra gorgeous moments of sunshine. One month ago - walking in darkness. This morning - the sun was well over the horizon!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, despite the increase in sunshine, the evenings and mornings are still a bit cool...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wbGlrydMAzY/UxgBHoXyiEI/AAAAAAAACx8/wdRXAEruSQY/s1600/20130316_124445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wbGlrydMAzY/UxgBHoXyiEI/AAAAAAAACx8/wdRXAEruSQY/s1600/20130316_124445.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This chilly weather doesn't keep me from being outside. Snowshoeing, biking, walking... no amount of frost can hold me back!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-aiTuJIek/UxgCSVxc5RI/AAAAAAAACyE/0XrBqKwqhK8/s1600/20140305_180153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp73RDV1o48/UxgCh3PMc3I/AAAAAAAACyQ/RbPjPdjnDNs/s1600/20140201_140942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp73RDV1o48/UxgCh3PMc3I/AAAAAAAACyQ/RbPjPdjnDNs/s1600/20140201_140942.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been fairly consistent with my nutritious eating regimen. HOWEVER ... I am getting allergy testing with the Naturopath tomorrow, so I was informed to eat some of my suspected allergens to the test will be more sensitive. Dairy and gluten. My poor belly.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fortunately, I've had some forbidden items come my way to help with this. Dinner with friends. Even delicious cupcakes delivered to me at work from a client!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztKqPDCyTW0/UxgEV-ZzZeI/AAAAAAAACyw/n79c4Buzen4/s1600/20140305_105325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztKqPDCyTW0/UxgEV-ZzZeI/AAAAAAAACyw/n79c4Buzen4/s1600/20140305_105325.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nom Nom Nom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Otherwise, the usual. I haven't been making any exciting new meals worth writing about. It's been fairly routine. Green juice, smoothies, lots of greens. Et cetera.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tkv93FuV7k0/UxgDZ-qJdyI/AAAAAAAACyo/-jbCbZnzIKM/s1600/20140302_143345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tkv93FuV7k0/UxgDZ-qJdyI/AAAAAAAACyo/-jbCbZnzIKM/s1600/20140302_143345.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2DR_7f2JF0/UxgFalMDeII/AAAAAAAACy4/3g7BB89bKig/s1600/20140124_072508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2DR_7f2JF0/UxgFalMDeII/AAAAAAAACy4/3g7BB89bKig/s1600/20140124_072508.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blood Oranges. Love.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had one for the first time in Italy. It's the tastiest combination of sour and sweet. I've been eating two daily.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLbtQLUeT5Y/UxgGa0TLf5I/AAAAAAAACzA/nOsCrrmLo2Q/s1600/20140201_140942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLbtQLUeT5Y/UxgGa0TLf5I/AAAAAAAACzA/nOsCrrmLo2Q/s1600/20140201_140942.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Only a few more days of this... then off to a much warmer climate!</span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-75720382630816314442014-01-21T21:32:00.000-08:002014-01-21T21:32:17.097-08:00Eat It Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm still getting accustomed to the free time I now have with a much shorter commute to work (12 minutes versus two hours daily!). So what to do with all of this free time?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Food. Delicious, homemade food.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-eHCDEP9Z0/Ut9MfIAH6HI/AAAAAAAACwE/v59znj9DT7U/s1600/20140120_211226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-eHCDEP9Z0/Ut9MfIAH6HI/AAAAAAAACwE/v59znj9DT7U/s1600/20140120_211226.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Avocado. Chocolate. Mousse.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's delicious, especially topped with raspberries and chia seeds. It's a recipe I last made four years ago, and it's almost perfect. I plan on spending some time making more chocolate mousse over the weekend to perfect the recipe, then will post it for all to enjoy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tough weekend ahead. Chocolate and sleeping-in. Woe is me!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My raw vegan breakfast is full of nutrition, flavor, and keeps me full for the morning. It's also easy on my delicate tummy, which doesn't like heavy or complicated meals early in the day.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8GJ4WDcSFL0/Ut9QRFfzQbI/AAAAAAAACwQ/zASvc6eORvo/s1600/20140121_072312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8GJ4WDcSFL0/Ut9QRFfzQbI/AAAAAAAACwQ/zASvc6eORvo/s1600/20140121_072312.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Matcha green tea, green juice (cucumber, celery, carrots, apples, lemon, parsley), chia pudding, and some much needed hydration. It's dry and cold up North. Lots of fluid needed in the morning.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNi3hRzp-M/Ut9QURyEHlI/AAAAAAAACwY/eLMUWNl3qTw/s1600/20140121_071750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhNi3hRzp-M/Ut9QURyEHlI/AAAAAAAACwY/eLMUWNl3qTw/s1600/20140121_071750.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I love my new glass straws. That is all.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Morning snack:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zVqdrg4hcZs/Ut9Th9jbjGI/AAAAAAAACw0/hqk84nhUq00/s1600/Untitled.p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zVqdrg4hcZs/Ut9Th9jbjGI/AAAAAAAACw0/hqk84nhUq00/s1600/Untitled.p.jpg" height="400" width="330" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">With some exciting literature. You know you're a nurse when you can read about abscesses and eat at the same time.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For lunch I went home, which is such a joy. Being in walking distance of my work is pretty wonderful. Not taking it for granted EVER!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdP9njQTCCY/Ut9UmYr7jaI/AAAAAAAACxA/_FxxQf_VZes/s1600/20140120_123458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdP9njQTCCY/Ut9UmYr7jaI/AAAAAAAACxA/_FxxQf_VZes/s1600/20140120_123458.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Miso noodle soup, homemade flax crackers, and hummus!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I was still hungry after eating the soup, so I made a slice of sprouted bread toast with hummus, sliced cucumbers, and broccoli sprouts. I dub this "hippie toast".</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IhtTEs3mDpI/Ut9VLY985xI/AAAAAAAACxI/eOO1udOHVYc/s1600/20140121_122821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IhtTEs3mDpI/Ut9VLY985xI/AAAAAAAACxI/eOO1udOHVYc/s1600/20140121_122821.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It looks very "granola", but it is delicious. I was first introduced to this while living in Saskatchewan, after having this combination as a baguette sandwich in an organic restaurant. With a side of soup. And a cookie.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Someday I'll go back and eat this daily. Maybe twice daily.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Afternoon snack:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VN47Jf6EZE/Ut9WMRBrYlI/AAAAAAAACxU/p2dGyD_s9WM/s1600/20140121_143653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VN47Jf6EZE/Ut9WMRBrYlI/AAAAAAAACxU/p2dGyD_s9WM/s1600/20140121_143653.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My favorite apple: the Pink Lady. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I go through about two 2-lb bags of this per week. I suppose it's better than eating two 2-lb bags of sour patch kids.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Dinner was a bit of a flop. I wanted to try something new - I had plans to make an Indian Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potato.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64cs6m_10TI/Ut9WtYj99TI/AAAAAAAACxc/Nqx3fzoJ-UE/s1600/20140121_171630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64cs6m_10TI/Ut9WtYj99TI/AAAAAAAACxc/Nqx3fzoJ-UE/s1600/20140121_171630.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The sweet potato took F O R E V E R to bake.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk-4PvA4f0U/Ut9XNIF5FrI/AAAAAAAACxk/tdNezKpz-Y8/s1600/20140121_185830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk-4PvA4f0U/Ut9XNIF5FrI/AAAAAAAACxk/tdNezKpz-Y8/s1600/20140121_185830.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Big fat <i>meh </i>on this one. I was generous with the cumin and curry for seasoning, added cashew parmesan, but it was still <i>meh.</i> The texture wasn't fantastic either, and I even went as far to mash it! This is a fail.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's time to give up - the only sweet potatoes I like are in the shape of fries.</span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-91764777824172022922014-01-19T21:26:00.002-08:002014-01-19T21:31:09.394-08:00Three Years<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It's hard to believe that it's been three years of Remicade. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcAU27dgm2Y/Utyr2mkhueI/AAAAAAAACvI/Y54pCrlmo-4/s1600/20131004_114035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcAU27dgm2Y/Utyr2mkhueI/AAAAAAAACvI/Y54pCrlmo-4/s1600/20131004_114035.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This treatment has been my lifesaver. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There was a time when I was unable to eat, sleep, had intense pain, was anemic, and unable to put any weight on. It was a sad, sick, and desperate time. I was initially apprehensive to initiate Remicade due to the intense side effects and thought of being prodded with needles on a regular basis, but this was short-lived when considering the improvement in my quality of life. The day I was able to eat a meal without intense nausea, slept through the night, went days without pain, and had stabilized weight (yes, I put on weight... and I love every soft curvy inch!) - I felt like I was given a new life. A new beginning - as a "healthy" person.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TeCjj7JdsBc/UtyvhpUwGoI/AAAAAAAACvU/7Ke6oec5Fts/s1600/20130610_084827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TeCjj7JdsBc/UtyvhpUwGoI/AAAAAAAACvU/7Ke6oec5Fts/s1600/20130610_084827.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I unfortunately had a flare-up of my condition in the fall, which was disheartening. It was a wake up call - a reminder that my health should be a priority. I refuse to go back to the days when I was so sick. Thus, I have been making changes to improve my health. It's been a slow process, but I relish in each step of progress I make.</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">On Friday I had my second "quick" infusion, which will take 45 minutes to one hour off the infusion time. I had one in the summer, which I was exhausted afterwards and did not want to relive. Until now.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UI4PuH3sn6U/USwtIkInOSI/AAAAAAAACn8/ISgJ8C7wZqo/s1600/20130225_092357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UI4PuH3sn6U/USwtIkInOSI/AAAAAAAACn8/ISgJ8C7wZqo/s1600/20130225_092357.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Fortunately, the infusion went well and I was only mildly exhausted, even returning to work afterwards. (Did I mention I have a new job that I LOVE?). I've been napping over the weekend, with some light meditation, cooking, and much-needed grocery shopping.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkjRk1AThHQ/Utyy4u_Aq1I/AAAAAAAACvs/nV_hwlz5VDU/s1600/20140119_153114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MkjRk1AThHQ/Utyy4u_Aq1I/AAAAAAAACvs/nV_hwlz5VDU/s1600/20140119_153114.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Trying to eat much healthier = Lots of green!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm feeling like another nap is coming on. Here are a few lovely words of inspiration, and wishes I share for everyone I love in the upcoming year:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7WQm-nipt7M/UtyzLBOqcaI/AAAAAAAACv0/Cg9vmDfVBeo/s1600/1527027_392423260893516_342820454_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7WQm-nipt7M/UtyzLBOqcaI/AAAAAAAACv0/Cg9vmDfVBeo/s1600/1527027_392423260893516_342820454_n.jpg" height="640" width="408" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2978791931977037554.post-6166677228824386672014-01-17T17:12:00.000-08:002014-05-01T21:27:28.293-07:00Coincidence<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, I've been having some interesting coincidences lately.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was kindly approached twice my young ladies in my hometown, who were curious as to if I am the Red Deception who has a blog (hi there!). These ladies expressed interest in my musings and insistence on discussing what new meal has been keeping my belly full. A kind reader sent me this message on Facebook: </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C4llAvzE6kE/UrZ-TcwLTQI/AAAAAAAACuQ/h5E7x4wVj6I/s1600/Picture+29.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C4llAvzE6kE/UrZ-TcwLTQI/AAAAAAAACuQ/h5E7x4wVj6I/s400/Picture+29.png" height="60" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then, a post from another blog in which I was mentioned was brought to my attention:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODlhyJWOHeg/UrJ7VNWee1I/AAAAAAAACuA/hG3rd-bb3Yg/s1600/Picture+28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODlhyJWOHeg/UrJ7VNWee1I/AAAAAAAACuA/hG3rd-bb3Yg/s640/Picture+28.png" height="233" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Needless to say, I was touched. And my motivation to begin blogging again has been reignited. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I deleted many of my past posts in the summer, as I was feeling discouraged by some aspects of my past that were less than delightful. I now wish I had kept these posts, as a reminder of how much I have accomplished and overcome in the past year. However, my own memories and recollection of this will have to do.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The past year or so has shown many uplifting moments and shattering relapses of my UC. My previous health triumphs were put aside for other obligations, and more stressors on my body mounted. I forgot my love of cooking... even biking, my previous source of bliss and meditation.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fA3iVrgdhw/T5ZFSMyDmCI/AAAAAAAABUU/yhqteANTJXQ/s1600/IMGP7224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fA3iVrgdhw/T5ZFSMyDmCI/AAAAAAAABUU/yhqteANTJXQ/s1600/IMGP7224.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am now putting more focus into my own health and well-being. I'm fortunate that I have outside support with my personal relationships and professional support from other nurses, nutritionists, and my physicians. However, the most significant aspect of this complicated puzzle is ME - if I don't make myself a priority, then I will end up back to an unhealthy place.</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm excited to be back in a more positive place - to continue with my musings and thoughts on this blog. Next up - Remicade infusion!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Red Deceptionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18069669930198240317noreply@blogger.com0