Canning Tomatoes

Weekly Menu

2011-10-24T05:36:00.000-07:00

Sunday: Veggie Lasagna & salad

Monday: ; Curry potato and veggie wraps

Tuesday: left-over lasagna & spinach salad

Wednesday: Tomato soup, grilled cheese

Thursday: Greek rice pilaf

Friday: left-over pilaf w/salad
Saturday: Potato kale soup, & arugula salad w/roasted beets & pumpkin vinaigrette

Weekly Menu

2011-10-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

Sunday: Veggies left over from making stock w/egg noodles, steamed broccoli from the garden & fall salad

Monday: Spicy tomato soup

Tuesday: Swiss chard, mushroom, feta & dill fritatta & hummos & fresh veggies

Wednesday: Italian bean & squash soup, fresh bread & arugula salad

Thursday: left- over soup, small plates & arugula salad

Friday: Pizza & salad
Saturday: small plates, left over pizza & salad

2011-10-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

Shit, I can't keep up!!

2011-10-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Okay so I am venting tonight as I sit here and look at just one of my "to do" lists and I am feeling completely overwhelemed. At this point all I can do is pour a glass of wine (which I did) and hope for the best for this semester and this year. I am loosing tracks of the days and my kids have to remind me and I feel like I am loosing a tad bit of my sanity. I am sure many know this feeling at some point in their lives, but mammas know it REAL well and mammas who are in school know EXACTLY where I am at right now. I need a day off just to regroup yet I feel guilty as hell if I take it because I can't afford to loose a day of work. I keep hearing from others, "Don't worry, it all gets done." Yeah, when? Not unless I plan to go without sleep at least one night a week. But I will make it through and I will look back at this moment and one day say, "Shit. How the hell did I do that?" Just as I did in undergraduate; just as I did when I had a toddler and an infant; just as I did last year, my first year of graduate school with two children. I will get through this semester. I will get through this year. I may be a walking zombie, but I WILL do it!

All in a Day's Harvest!

2011-09-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Where did the summer go?

2011-09-09T06:02:00.000-07:00

I am not too sure how the summer just disappeared, but in our household it ended faster than we could have imagined or have been prepared for. I barely got a chance to write or even take photos and every time I thought about doing either I really didn't feel like it so, instead I was much more content curled up with a book or trying out my new canning books with tons of tasty treats, Here are a few pictures from the summer and I hope that as the new school year progresses I have a chance to use this blog to flush out my ideas and questions for the thesis that I have now officially began writing.

These were the only red beets that I have harvested due to the family of bunnies that has decided to live in my yard this year! Hopefully they will not bother my fall crop of beets, but I am not too hopeful about that.

These are the first few purple carrots that I picked to use in a new recipe for spicy pickled carrots. Yummy!!

The first round of fargo yellow tomatoes getting ready to be oven-dried and below what was left of the fargos after being dried (I found my son swiping them handfuls at a time). In my opinion these are the best tomatoes to dry in the oven. It brings out an amazing sweetness and flavor that they do not possess when eaten ripe off the vine. I have dried and frozen them the last few years to have for salads in the winter but unfortunately enough don't make it into the freezer because we can't help but to eat them as soon as they get out of the oven. They are THAT YUMMY!!

These are only a few of my chiogga beets that I sliced really thin and baked in the oven for beet chips. I forgot how ugly these beets get when they are baked, but they tasted amazing with a dip made from yogurt and horseradish.

2010 Book List...

2011-05-23T07:28:00.000-07:00

Looking at this list while getting ready to clear it to start over for the new year I realized I read A LOT of books last year so I decided to post it here so I could take some time look it over and meditate on what these books had to offer. While some were better than others, they all deeply moved me and left me pondering ways in which to improve my life and the world around me.

Growing, Older by Joan Dye Gussow
Gender Outlaw:On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us by Kate Bornstein
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson
The Age of Grief by Jane Smiley
The Death of Nature by Carolyn Merchant
Earthcare:Women and the Environment by Carolyn Merchant
Pedagogies of Crossing by Jacqui Alexander
Intersecting Voices by Iris Marion Young
Borderlands/La Frontera by Gloria Anzaldua
The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
Breeders: Read Life Stories from the New Generation of Mothers edited by Ariel Gore & Bee Lavender
Parenting from your Heart by Inbal Kashtan
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
The Monsters:Mary Shelly and the Curse of Frankenstein by Dorothy & Thomas Hoobler
Her Own Woman: The Life of Mary Wollstonecraft by Diane Jacobs
Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today's Feminism edited by Daisy Hernandez and Bushra Rehman
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian
Radical Homemakers by Shannon Hayes
A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley
Opting In: Becoming a Mother Without Loosing Yourself by Amy Richards
A Bend in the River by V.S. Naipaul
Because I Said So edited by Camille Peri & Kate Moses
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver

Weekly menu

2011-05-23T06:56:00.001-07:00

Sunday: Risotto w/ MI leeks & asparagus, arugula w/balsamic vinegar

Monday: veggie lasagna

Tuesday: left-over lasagna

Wednesday: caramelized cabbage w/egg noodles

Thursday: Spanish tortilla w/potatoes, peas & shallots, fresh greens from the garden w/ balsamic vinegar

Friday: personal pizzas, roasted MI asparagus

Saturday: ?? whatever the markets have to offer us!

Weekly Menu

2011-05-16T06:36:00.001-07:00

Sunday: homemade mujudra, tabbouleh (with parsley & mint from the garden), spicy baba ghannouj and hummus

Monday: left-overs and salad

Tuesday: egg noodles & steamed broccoli

Wednesday: Southwestern corn & sweet potato soup

Thursday: Pasta Al Pomodoro (from last month's Bon Appetit) with canned garden tomatoes & fresh spinach salad

Friday: left-over soup, left-over pasta Greek salad

Saturday: Fresh corn on the cob, MI fingerling potatoes roasted in garlic & paprika, salad with local greens & many veggies & champagne vinaigrette

I'm back, at least for the summer...

2011-05-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

I am back and I must admit I have missed blogging. This last year has been full of changes and it has been very difficult for me to find the time or the energy to keep up with this blog. Back in the fall of 2010 I started graduate school and with all of the reading and writing that it requires on top of my other responsibilities to my family the blog was put on the back shelf. Now that it is spring and I am close to being done with classes I hope to be on here sharing my thoughts on food, feminism, motherhood, gardening and living sensibly & simply much more often. I will also try to keep up with weekly menus and recipes to share some of our favorite things to chow down right now. Because the weather has totally SUCKED these last few weeks I find that I am getting back into my cooking and baking groove and I am enjoying the art of cooking once again. Although I am loving graduate school I must admit I was not ready for it to take over my life and leave me little time to enjoy the things I love to do most. But my spring semester is well underway, easy and is giving me time to enjoy those things once again. And with all of the rain I have been at a very leisure pace and spending time getting back into my groove of life which has been so wonderful, although I am SO done with the rain and find myself singing "Rain, rain go away" along with the kids way too often. But it is giving me the pace of life I need right now and I must acknowledge it and for that I am very grateful.

When Life Hands you Lemons...

2011-05-04T03:58:00.000-07:00

Make Lemon Creme Sauce for Pasta! Okay so if you are like me, there are certain staples that you always keep in your fridge and pantry such as pasta, egg noodles, canned tomatoes, veggie stock, lemons, coconut milk, canned beans, etc. (you get the picture). Well, this last week I had one of those days where my fridge was almost bare and the pantry was getting low and I wanted to make something simple and yummy. I decided to pull out my Simple Suppers cookbook by Moosewood Restaurant and see if there was anything I could make since this cookbook has easy meals with small ingredient lists. And one of the first meals that caught my eye was a recipe for "creamy lemon pasta." I scanned the ingredient list and knew right away everything it required was staples that I always keep around. I also knew that one of the only veggies in the fridge was fresh MI asparagus and so I decided that I would pull that out and blanch it and then add to the pasta and sauce. OH YUM, YUM!!! This dish was amazing! It was easy, fast and the kids devoured it. SO...I thought I would share the recipe with you all, enjoy!!

CREAMY LEMON PASTA:

1 lemon

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 cup of heavy cream or half and half

1 pound of pasta

1 cup of grated or shredded Parmesan cheese

salt and pepper

Bring a large covered pot of salted water to boil. When water comes to a boil cook your pasta to your liking.

Meanwhile grate the lemon peel (you will need about 2-3 tsp). and then squeeze the lemon (you will need 3 Tbsp. of juice). In a small skillet or saucepan melt the butter. Stir in the cream and heat gently. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Turn off the heat.

Place the drained pasta in a large serving bowl or on a serving platter and add the lemon cream sauce and toss. Toss in the Parmesan. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

*I also tossed in the asparagus with some fresh chives out of the garden and next time I make this I plan to do the same with fresh green peas from the garden.

WHO IS READY FOR SPRING???

2011-02-23T14:15:00.000-08:00

I AM, I AM!!!!! And so I am posting pictures that take me to a warm, sunny moment in the garden in the anticipation of a spring that is hopefully just around the corner!

Cutting up the Pumpkins

2011-02-17T10:06:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been cutting a LOT of pumpkin and making everything I can think of to make with pumpkin puree! Here is what I found some of the pumpkins and squash to look like as I cut into them...I can't believe how gorgeous the color is! And I can't believe that my warty girl and Cinderella pumpkin's seeds were starting to sprout.Amazing!!

Weekly Menu

2011-02-07T05:27:00.001-08:00

Monday: Left-over veggie chili

Tuesday: Greg's cooking night-Chickpea spinach curry w/yogurt, cucumbers and mint, naan & mango chutney

Wednesday: caramelized onion & cabbage w/egg noodles & broccoli

Thursday: Greg's cooking night

Friday: homemade pizza night or baked mac & cheese

Saturday: pastry puff topped with roasted veggies

Sunday: Savory bread pudding w/kale & butternut squash

Weekly Menu

2011-01-19T04:17:00.001-08:00

Okay so a little late, but I am still going to post it! My schedule is crazy intense right now and so over the next two weeks I am sure you will see my menus reflect the realities of life right now. But, no complaints, life is GOOD!

Monday: Chilean stew w/quinoa

Tuesday: Veggie taco night and left over stew

Wednesday: Pasta w/ delicata and a Parmesan cream sauce (wanted to make this last week, but kids insisted on their favorite sauce, which is green and oh so yummy)

Thursday: Greg's cooking night

Friday: Individual pizzas and salad

Saturday: Date night!!!

Sunday: Greg's Birthday Dinner

Weekly Menu

2011-01-10T13:47:00.001-08:00

It was very difficult for me to find the time to post my menus last fall. I am going to try to get them on here with recipes more frequently with the winter because it helps me keep on track and it also keeps me from getting stuck making the same dishes and burning my family out on what once were favorites. So Happy New Year and here is the first menu of 2011!

Monday: Sweet potato, winter squash & caramelized onion lasagna & salad

Tuesday: Tunisian stew w/couscous, roasted root veggies & salad

Wednesday: Black bean soup, homemade guacamole & chips

Thursday: Greg's night to cook

Friday: Pasta w/green sauce & salad

Saturday: Chickpea & sweet potato stew w/couscous, sauteed kale w/golden raisins & pine nuts

Sunday: Leftovers and salad

Delicata Harvest 2010

2010-10-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Weekly Menu

2010-10-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

Monday: Black bean & sweet potato torta (in the crock pot)

Tuesday: Spinach & mushroom frittata w/tomato Bulgar soup

Wednesday: Pasta w/roasted veggies & fresh salad

Thursday: Left-overs

Friday: Italian bean & squash soup

Saturday: MI Harvest Beer Festival-eating out!

Sunday: Tunisian potato turnovers, fennel roasted beets, carrots & purple onion & an arugula salad

Weekly Menu

2010-09-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Monday: Spinach, feta pie & Savannah beans and greens soup

Tuesday: Spinach & pesto risotto & fresh garden salad

Wednesday: Pasta w/leftover pesto & pine nuts & an arugula salad topped w/roasted pumpkin, currants, red onion, goat cheese, pepitas & maple vinaigrette

Thursday: Greg's cooking night

Friday: Homemade pizzas on the grill

Saturday: Pumpkin Curry Soup & salad

Sunday: Left-overs & block party

All of the pumpkins...well almost....

2010-09-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Here are almost all of the pumpkins we grew this year, two had already been given away at this point, so I would say we have a pretty successful pumpkin year!

Where is the time going?????

2010-09-26T12:22:00.001-07:00

Seriously, I feel as though it was the first day of school for my kids last week and they have been in school for a month and I have been in school now for 3 weeks. Yes, I have made it through my first 3 weeks of graduate school! Not quite sure how, but I have made it. And I decided that today would be a day off, my first day of no homework in 3 weeks and ahhh....feels nice; even though I know I have to hit the books hardcore tomorrow!

So with my "day off" I have done some canning, sewing, cleaning and now blogging. I just added a canning list in the sidebar to help track how much I have canned this year. AND I have been thumbing through cookbooks, one of my favorite past times. I like to read them like novels and a friend let me borrow Seasonal Desserts by Deborah Madison and A Year in the Life of a Vegetarian by Jack Bishop and OH MY GOSH!!! I NEED these cookbooks....LOVE both of them and don't even know where to start since everything in them sounds divine.

Enough rambling on and on...just checking in and hopefully I will get a chance to post my pictures of the pumpkins and maybe even a photo of a meal from one of these cookbooks and maybe even the sewing projects I have been working on. Okay, enough rambling on, I KNOW, I KNOW!

*Is it obvious that I have had a lot of coffee today?

Weekly Menu

2010-09-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

SO yes, a little late...but here it is...

Monday: Veggie lasagna w/ veggies from the garden & an arugula salad

Tuesday: Left overs & salad

Wednesday: Italian bean & squash soup, fresh bread & salad

Thursday: Greg's cooking night

Friday: Taco Soup (recipe below)

Saturday: Going to an Oktoberfest party!!!

Sunday: Farmstand Casserole w/fresh garden salad

*This is an adaptation of a recipe that I got ages ago from my sister-in-law. This recipe is so good, so fast and if your family loves taco night or chili they will love it!

TACO SOUP:

1Quart or 28 oz. can of diced tomatoes

1 large jar of Randall's northern beans ( or a quart of northern beans)

1 quart of pinto beans or 2 cans

1 can of kidney beans

1 to 1 1/2 cup of frozen corn

1 large diced onion

1 pkg. of taco seasoning

1pkg. of ranch seasoning

1 quart of water

Combine all things in a large pot and let simmer until the onions are soft. OR...I like to throw it all in the crock-pot in the morning and let cook on low heat all day. Enjoy topped with your favorite toppings and tortilla chips!

Monday Menu

2010-08-31T06:21:00.001-07:00

Monday: Tomato, avocado & queso salad and Greek style veggies w/cannellini beans & orzo

Tuesday: Chilled avocado orange soup and red Thai curry

Wednesday: Fresh salad and pizzas on the grill

Thursday: Chickpea spinach curry

Friday: Arugula salad, Grilled potatoes w/tons of garlic & paprika, fresh MI corn on the cob, jerk tofu, Carolina Kale

Saturday: Cucumber & yogurt salad, baba ghannouj, tabbouleh, kale sauteed w/onions & bulghur and mujudra

Sunday: Greg's night for dinner

When the garden gives you an abundence of carrots...

2010-08-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

YOU MAKE CARROT CAKE!!!!!

* These are the carrots that my gurl grew in her own 2ft. by 2 ft. garden bed...I still have to pull the 8 rows that I planted!!!

Garlic Scape Pesto

2010-08-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

I LOVE garlic scape pesto and I usually have it made by this time of the year, but pine nuts have been difficult to find and I have been lazy. So today I spent the day in the kitchen and the pesto was 1st thing on the list to get accomplished.

Garlic Scapes:

Washed & chopped & ready to go:

Ready to throw it all in the processor:

The Finished Product:

If you love garlic and would like to make your own garlic scape pesto here is how I make it. You can substitute the pine nuts for walnuts or pecans if you prefer.

Garlic Scape Pesto:

8-9 scapes

1 C. of Parmesan

1/2- 3/4 C. of toasted pine nuts

1/2 C. chopped parsley leaves (no stems, too course)

Salt to taste

Put the scapes in the processor and chop then add the parsley and process it a little more. Then add in the nuts and process it until the nuts are chopped. Then add in the cheese and process it some more until it is all blended well, but still has texture. Turn the processor on and slowly add in the oil while it is running. At this point I always taste test it and continue adding nuts, cheese or salt until I get the consistency & flavor that I want. Now enjoy on sauteed veggies, fresh bread or pasta!

Monday Menus

2010-08-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

Menus are so hard for me in the summer because so much depends on what is ripe in the garden and what is in season at the market. So I am going to try to get back on track since school starts next week and we need to start getting back into a routine.

Monday: Veggie Nachos & a tomato, green bean & corn salad w/fresh basil & a Dijon vinaigrette

Tuesday: (having friends over for dinner) Cucumber & onion salad w/fresh dill, Arugula w/goat cheese & pecans, kale sauteed w/ caramelized onions, roasted fingerling potatoes w/tons of fresh garlic, Greek stuffed summer squash, & MI peach cobbler

Wednesday: left-overs & Greek salad

Thursday: Salad, Roasted onions & sweet potatoes, sauteed kale w/white beans & stuffed squash blossoms

Friday: Tomato, avocado & Queso Blanco salad, pizzas on the grill

Saturday: Egg noodles & steamed veggies for the kids (mom & dad's night out!)

Sunday: Arugula salad w/pine nuts, red onion, pears & chevre & pasta primavera

MMMM.....

2010-08-16T10:13:00.001-07:00

The Mighty, Mighty Pumpkins

2010-08-13T05:09:00.000-07:00

Fun for mom & the kids!

2010-08-09T14:19:00.001-07:00

As anyone with young children knows, long car rides can be pretty painful at times. This year when we started planing our annual trip to Northern Michigan I started thinking of ways to keep the kids entertained in the car. I decided to make the kids some activities bags for vacation and fill them with plenty of books and art supplies for the trip. So here was one of my favorite sewing projects of this year; I am very happy with the way they turned out. You can find this AMAZING free pattern for messenger bags here:

Sorry it has been awhile

2010-08-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't been into posted much lately as you all can see it has been pretty boring and nothing really interesting in terms of food, feminism or my sewing & material addiction. We took a nice long holiday and went to Northern Michigan and then my sister was in from Wyoming so life has been busy. This last week however was a week full of tragic news and drama from every angle and so instead of being social in any way, shape or form I decided to bury my head in a book and a sewing project.

Today is the beginning of a new week and I am trying to be hopeful of what will unfold this week...although I am still not feeling too social and I have moved on to a new book and a new sewing project. Pictures to come soon!!

LOVIN' IT!

2010-08-01T07:55:00.001-07:00

Garden Stroll

2010-07-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from my stroll through the garden this morning. I am starting to get very excited since I have harvested my first tomatoes this week as well as pounds of arugula, swiss chard, kale and now a few summer squash. It is once again extremely hot and humid today and although I need to finish weeding I think I am going to sit at the sewing machine today and finish up some projects. More on that later this week!

The Pumpkins

2010-07-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the first pumpkin in the pumpkin patch. I can't believe how crazy the pumpkins are this year, thanks to all of the humidity and rain they are out of control and I hope to get a good picture from one of the windows on the second floor so you can see just how HUGE these pumpkin plants are.

Monday Menus...a few days late!

2010-07-14T15:07:00.000-07:00

This week the kids have been in camp down at the Boll Family YMCA in downtown Detroit-LOVE IT!!! I meant the camp, but I would be lying if I said that Greg and I haven't enjoyed our days together without breaking up fights every 10 minutes or the constant whining. Oh the joys summer can bring: delicious fresh & local food, warm weather & C-A-M-P!!!!!! We have spent most of these last few days wandering around in the city and I will post on that at the end of the week with a special post on our favorite new and old place in the "D," but for now I will leave you with a new weekly menu and recipe.

Monday: Taco Night

Tuesday: Spanish saffron rice, sauteed kale w/ golden raisins & pine nuts & an arugula, tomato, cucumber & feta salad

Wednesday: Left-over rice, steamed broccoli, sauteed summer squash topped w/garlic scape pesto & panzanella salad

Thursday: Arugula tossed w/goat cheese, pine nuts & red onion & a balsamic vinaigrette, gratin of potato & summer squash w/Herbs de Provence & fresh bread

Friday: pear, fig & gorgonzola salad w/ homemade personal pizzas night

Saturday: Graduations Parties

Sunday: Watermelon, feta & mint salad & a sweet onion tart

SPANISH SAFFRON RICE:

serves 4

3 Tbsp. of e.v.o.o.
1 medium onion minced
1 1/2 C. long grain white rice
1 1/4 C. stock (Veggie or Chicken)
2 C. peeled, seeded & chopped fresh or canned tomatoes
1 tsp. saffron threads
Coarse Salt ( I prefer Pink Salt for this dish...would love to try gray salt with it as well...)
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 C. roasted red peppers diced
1/4 C. Spanish green olives cut into thin strips
1-2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft. Add rice and stir to coat the rice with oil for 1 minute. Increase the heat to high and add stock, 1 cup of water, the tomatoes, saffron & 1 tsp. of salt (Most of the time I use an extra cup of stock rather than water for extra flavor.) Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, covered, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed-about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and season to taste with fresh pepper.

Add the red peppers, olives and parsley to the rice and fluff and mix with a fork. Season to taste with pepper & serve.

*This is adapted from the cookbook: You Say Tomato by Joanne Weir

Thinning the carrots....

2010-07-10T14:08:00.001-07:00

A Stroll Through the Garden

2010-06-23T08:32:00.001-07:00

Tiger Lillies

Honeycrisp Apple Tree

Fig Tree

Wild Arugula

Kale and Chamomile

Rose Bush

Borage

White Echinacea

New Favorite Sewing Project

2010-06-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

Okay so I know this isn't the best picture, but I had to

write about this Anna Marie Horner bag (Multi-Tasker Tote) that I just made. I LOVE it! Not only is it cute, and functional, but the realm of possibilities are endless with so many great fabrics out there right now. It was a fairly easy project that came together a lot faster than I expected. You can find the pattern here and while you are there check out her amazing fabrics, other patterns and blog. I have already planned on making another one for myself and a few for birthday presents this year.

SO TASTY & SO FRESH!

2010-06-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

For almost a month now we have been able to pick salad greens out of our garden every night for tasty and healthy salads. We have been eating loads of spinach and arugula with a little baby lettuce thrown in every few days. I can't seem to get enough of eating salad and I love being able to experiment with what is in season and in our freezer, fridge and pantry to top these beautiful greens. I thought I would share some of my favorite combinations:

*pumpkins or winter squash (from last season) cubed and oven roasted in oil, maple syrup & pepper flakes combined w/ sheep's milk feta, toasted pecans or pepitas & red onion w/ balsamic maple syrup vinaigrette

*goat cheese, fresh MI strawberries, toasted pecans, balsamic vinegar & e.v.o.o.

* oven-dried tomatoes (from last season), avocado, toasted pine-nuts, red onion w/ balsamic maple syrup vinaigrette

* straight up arugula w/goat cheese, toasted pine nuts, balsamic vinegar & e.v.o.o.

* fennel sliced very thin, white beans, oven-dried tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, lemon juice & e.v.o.o.

Healthy Lunches

2010-06-14T13:01:00.001-07:00

Now that the kids are home I am determined to be on top of keeping our snacks and lunches healthy and diverse. So I will periodically be posting some easy, fun, and healthy snacks as well as lunch menus for all of those mamas and papas out there who are trying to do the same.

This is what we ate today...

Here are the recipes.

Yogurt Dip/Salad Dressing:

1 Cup of plain yogurt

1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

1/2 tsp. minced garlic

1-2 tsp. fresh dill

1 tsp. black pepper

salt to taste if you wish

*Combine & good for 2 days

Brown Rice Salad:

1 Cup of cooked brown rice

2 diced carrots

2 celery stalks diced

1 red, yellow or orange sweet bell pepper diced

1/2 red onion diced

1/2 cup toasted pine nuts

fresh dill

1 clove mined garlic

rice vinegar

e.v.o.o.

sea salt & pepper

Cook the brown rice and let cool. While the rice is cooking/cooling chop up all of the veggies and put in a large bowl. Toss the veggies in a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and about 1/4 cup of rice vinegar. Once the rice is cooled a bit add it to the veggies and mix well. Then add in the garlic, dill and pine nuts and mix well. At this point I do a lot of taste testing and continue to add rice vinegar, dill, salt and pepper till I get it where I want it. Enjoy!

New Look!

2010-06-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this backdrop...but wondering if it is a little too busy? What do you all think? Please drop me some comments and let me know!

Even MORE Rhubarb!

2010-06-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

10 1/2 lbs. of rhubarb =

2 quarts & 1 pint canned

6 half-pints of rhubarb ginger jam

6 cups of diced rhubarb in the freezer

mmmm.......

Monday Menus:

2010-06-08T04:42:00.000-07:00

Monday: asparagus w/ lemon & oregano aoili, brown rice salad & a fresh spinach & arugula salad

Tuesday: orzo & pea soup, sauteed cabbage in bebar spice & arugula tossed w/aged balsamic vinegar, e.v.o.o. & goat cheese

Wednesday: Nachos & fresh salsa & guacamole

Thursday: Breakfast for dinner at the request of the kids-Sweet potato pancakes, fresh MI strawberries, yogurt & homemade granola

Friday: Cold avocado soup, panzenella salad, homemade bread w/ white bean spread

Saturday: Veggie Lasagna and salad

Sunday: left-overs

3-2-1 COUNTDOWN!!!

2010-06-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are in countdown mode here in our house due to the fact that school is done on Tuesday, June 8, 2010. We are all counting down for different reasons of course. The gurl can't wait to be done and have everyday to do what she wants to since she is "the boss;" the boy can't wait to have his sister home to play with everyday (which I am sure will not last long); dad can't wait for his work load to lighten since he works in administration at a school and all of the students and most faculty will be out of the building making the days easier; and mom is counting down MANY things such as my last few days with just me and the boy, the end of my quiet mornings, and possible the end of my sanity! So while they nap and the house is so peaceful and quiet I am enjoying this delicious dessert and "my" time because I know that is just a couple of days the chaos of summer begins!

This is a rhubarb kuchen that I blogged awhile ago. I finally made it this weekend and it was amazing. I altered the recipe a little because I wanted the custard filling to be a little thicker and richer so I added some creme friache' to it and oh good heaven is this tasty! I have been eating it for dessert, breakfast or basically whenever I feel like it!

Just a few things for you to think about...

2010-06-04T17:13:00.000-07:00

Here are a few stats from the book Radical Homemakers:

75% of plant genetic diversity has been lost and 30% of livestock breeds area at risk of extinction

75% of the world's food comes from twelve plants and only five animal species

Six companies control 98% of the world's seed sales, four companies slaughter 81% of American beef, and four companies control 70% of American milk sales

66% of adult American are currently overweight or obese

Today's children are now the first generation expected to have a shorter life expectancy than their parents

Opting In: Having a Child Without Loosing Yourself

2010-05-18T05:37:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading the book Opting In: Having a Child Without Loosing Yourself by Amy Richards and decided to share some thoughts about it since it got my feminist mama juices flowing. Let me just start by saying that I am a fan of Amy Richards. I think she has done some amazing work in the feminist community and she has been a role model and spokesperson for my generation of feminists, 3rd wave or 21st century feminists, whatever it is you may want to label us. She has been very outspoken on prominent issues in the movement and in her own life, and has taken her passion and activism for feminism to the pages and has written three books: Manifesta, and Grassroots: A Fieldguide for Feminist Activism, co-authored with Jennifer Baumgardner and her most recent book Opting In: Having a Child Without Loosing Yourself.

This book isn't that new of a book, it was actually published back in 2008. It was a book that I had read a review of it when published and wanted to buy, but put it on one of many book lists that have been lost or forgotten about. Recently while surfing Amazon, I came across this again and decided it was time to purchase it.

This book is an easy read, definitely not full of studies and academic jargon that will make your head spin. In my opinion is was written for new feminists and feminists who are new to motherhood. I say motherhood rather than parenthood because it really is directed toward mothers; even though she discusses issues such as the importance of partnership, letting dads be actively involved and the debate over using the word parenthood rather than motherhood, it is still intended for mothers to read. I also have to say that I believe the book is directed at heterosexual mothers. She touches on issues that may be important to feminist lesbian mothers, however, when discussing the role of partners, she speaks primarily from her own experiences which happen to be with a man and the father of her children. Even though this might be a turn-off for some feminists, I believe that the book would still be a worthy read since she does an excellent job of arguing this idea of "choice" applying to all areas of a womun's life; not just to reproductive rights.

She begins this book by approaching an issue that is difficult for many feminists - how to blend your feminist belief system with your own desires to become a mother. How to come to terms with "how such a political movement that is historically known to free womyn of feminine expressions can support such a personal decision that is seen as the ultimate feminine expression." She uses history, research, personal experiences of her own as well as friends and strangers (who have emailed her at AskAmy on Feminist.com) to demonstrate how motherhood and feminism can co-exist in a womun's life.

As she moves through the book she ties the idea of "choice" into many different topics that it should be applied to such as working vs. staying home, pregnancy & birthing choices and gender issues. She also discusses the history of feminism and motherhood, the truth about our biological clocks, relationships between mothers and daughters, and practicing our politics through parenting.

I could take up a lot space and time writing about this book and my own opinion and experiences as a active, third-wave feminist mom, but I have done some of that in past posts. And I am sure I will do some more writing in the future on how I have struggled with blending these two identities and how I have learned to navigate motherhood from a feminist perspective and how I continue to grow and learn how beautifully these two identities can mesh.

Monday Menus

2010-05-17T13:49:00.000-07:00

Monday: Menestra w/fresh bread

Tuesday: Grilled MI asparagus, eggplant & peppers w/ brown rice & fresh arugula salad

Wednesday: Greg's dinner night

Thursday: gazpacho w/tomato avocado salad

Friday: Mujudrah, spinach pies & Arabic potato salad

Saturday: MI Asparagus, Corn & tomato salad, quinoa black bean salad & tapas dishes

Sunday: Veggie Lasagna

Everything Rhubarb

2010-05-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

It is the time of year that rhubarb is in season here in Southeast MI and I plan to take full advantage of it! I love rhubarb and every since I made some tasty rhubarb turnovers last week, I have been itching to eat something rhubarb every day.

SO with the help from a friend who gave me 10 cups of frozen rhubarb from her freezer stash and the availability of it at the Eastern Farmer's Market I plan to definitely get my rhubarb fill.

Today I decided to bake a Rhubarb Crisp that I found on Mom's Kitchen, another MI Lady Blogger that has great food blog full of a lot of delicious recipes and information. I changed it up a bit by adding fresh minced ginger to the rhubarb mix rather than the ground ginger in the topping and I also used oat flour in the topping to make myself feel like this isn't that bad for me-fruit & oats are very healthy, right? :)

And here is a picture of it with a dollop of creme fraiche'...delicious!!

Some other rhubarb recipes that I plan on trying are listed below:

http://rcakewalk.blogspot.com/2010/05/rhubarb-kuchen-or-in-which-i-divulge.html

(made this, loved this & you can see how it turned out here)

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/food_and_drink/recipes/article7103687.ece

http://teaandcookies.blogspot.com/2009/05/rhubarb-revelation.html

http://www.rhubarbinfo.com/recipe-jam.html#index_jam_23

Fabric I am drooling over right now!

2010-05-11T10:22:00.001-07:00

This is from Joel Dewberry's Modern Meadow fabric line and I bought this fabric to make the Anna Marie Horner Multi-task Tote for my mom not anticipating how much I would LOVE this fabric...it is going to be very hard for me to let go of it!

This is from Laura Gunn's Poppy fabric collection and I AM IN LOVE!!! I have thought about all of the wonderful things I can do with this fabric and I am thinking of a few gifts for a few very special people and then a Multi-task tote for me. If I had a more money I would snag up every piece of this collection, so in love with it!

Here are a few fun fabrics that I couldn't resist. Starting from the left is a fabric by Alexander Henry Fabrics in the 2D Zoo collection, then there are the luna moths from the Flora & Fauna collection by Patty Young, Garden Party by Anna Marie Horner and then the snails from the Shade Garden collection by Michelie Engel Bencsko. These are basically for baby gifts, well except the garden party material...I bought that to make gorgeous napkins to go with my Fiestaware collection!

Monday Menus

2010-05-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Monday: Left-overs for Mother's Day dinner out :)

Tuesday: Breakfast for dinner at the family's request- scrambled eggs topped w/ goat cheese & sauteed red onion, tomatoes, spinach w/ home fries

Wednesday: Carrot ginger soup w/spinach salad (recipe posted)

Thursday: Egg Noodles, kale sauteed w/ raisins & pine nuts, sweet potato fries

Friday: Quinoa burgers

Saturday: Taco night

Sunday: Whole wheat pasta w/homemade sauce, fresh arugula & pine nuts & tomato, cucumber & feta salad

Carrot Ginger Soup

1 Tbsp. butter- DO NOT substitute
2 shallots minced or 1/2 small onion-although I would highly recommend using the shallots
1-2 tsp minced fresh ginger, I use closer to 2 tsp. since we love ginger
1 1/2 cups of chopped carrots
1 1/2 tsp. light brown sugar
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 cups of veggie broth
2 Tbsp. white rice

Melt butter in large sauce pot over medium heat. Add shallots and saute' stirring often, 3-5 minutes, until translucent (I highly recommend using the butter w/shallots because it gives the soup a soup that is very smooth and elegant).

Add carrots and ginger and cook stirring often for another 5 minutes.

Add sugar and stir constantly for 1 minute and then add the orange juice and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze. Cook until liquid reduces by 1/2, approx. 3 minutes.

Add broth and rice and bring to a boil. Add salt and pepper to taste and reduce heat to low, cover and cook until the carrots are very tender, about 40-45 min.

Use food processor to puree' mixture until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

* I always double this recipe because we love it so much my family complains if they don't have enough for lunch the next day!

Choices...

2010-05-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

As a womun and as a feminist, choice is a topic that has been very important to me. It is a topic that I have struggled with, pondered upon for hours on end and have spent many hours soul searching over this issue of what "choice" means for womyn. As a young, budding feminist in college this idea of being "pro-choice" became important to me and as I have aged and transitioned through life it has become even more prominent in my own life, especially when I became a stay-home mom, or what I would like to call myself, a radical homemaker (excellent book by on this topic by Shannon Hayes that I will blogging about soon!)

Two years ago I wrote and submitted a piece on choice for an academic journal that was looking for entries on many different topics from mothers who considered themselves third wave feminists. Around this time I was really exploring this idea of choice and how I felt based on my own experiences. I believe that in my generation of feminists we have fixated too narrowly on this idea of "pro-choice" being equated with only reproductive rights and have ignored the other dimensions that choice embodies. I discussed how womyn in the second wave marched, demonstrated and fought hard for choice-not only reproductive choices, but also the right as a womun to choose our own path and destiny. Yet, as I graduated college and began to make MY own educated choices about MY future, I was met with opposition and felt ostracized many times. I didn't realize until many years later that my definition of choice was much different than the feminist womyn around me, as well as the feminist movement that I identified with.

It is now 2010, and I am STILL milling over this idea of choice in my head. It is always there hanging around, but lately keeps hitting me in the face and challenging me on my own ideas of choice and what I believe it to be for womyn in the 21st century. Do we really have the freedom of choice? Or do we think that we do, but still play into what society expects of us as womyn and as mothers, wives, partners, etc.? And are we (feminists) foolish by believing that all womyn have this right to choose their paths or destinies?

So many fragmented thoughts right now swirling in my head regarding this concept of choice, primarily pertaining to marriage and motherhood. I must say this is just beginning entry on a series I will start on this issue. But for now back to an excellent book on feminism and motherhood by Amy Richards, Opting In: Having a Child Without Loosing Yourself.

Happy Birth Day my little gurl!

2010-05-03T13:30:00.001-07:00

Today my little gurl turned six years old!!! I am in awe of this fact, but even more than that I am in awe of her. When I was pregnant and my belly was big and round and full of life I sat many times dreaming about this child. Would the baby be a gurl or boy, strong-willed or meek and quiet, look like me or Greg, so many questions. And of course your baby is born and as the days, months and years quickly pass by you start to see the answers to all of those questions you once had asked yourself unfold.

I watch this kid of mine, because she is now a kid...no more diapers, teething rings or baby necessities, no more toddler or little childish toys, books and sayings...she is a full-blown kid equipped with the missing teeth, the nose buried in a book and the attitude and confidence the size of the state we live in! She is 100% Taurus and as we like to say in our house, "You mess with the bull, you get the horns!" And that is the truth. And I love it! Now, don't get me wrong, not all of the time; most days it gets very exhausting and frustrating having to try to negotiate and lay down the law with her since she seems to think she knows more about anything and everything than I do, but at the end of the day I remind myself...this will serve her well. I wanted a fiery, independent, strong-willed, no taking shit daughter and that is EXACTLY what I got!

Last year she was miserable on her birthday dealing with some serious sinus and allergy issues and I am happy to report that this year she sailed through the day feeling great and looking absolutely beautiful. She had a day full of love from her family and friends and received many amazing and unique gifts including 5 homemade outfits- 3 from grandma and 2 from me. And of course the cake of her choice which was a Tres Leche Cake this year, which I decided last minute to do as a Quatro Leche Cake and it was DELICIOUS!!!!!!!!!!! Happy Birthday K.N.S.!

Monday Menus

2010-04-26T09:22:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since I have menu planned and oh how my pocketbook has missed it and to be honest I have also missed it! I usually spend time on Sundays going through all of my cookbooks and past issues of Vegetarian Times and Bon Appetit which is one of the things about Sundays that I truly love. I have made a lot of delicious dinners in these last few weeks and I plan to make them again soon and I will share some recipes for amazing stews and quick meals.

Monday: Dinner

Tuesday: Caribbean beans & rice w/mango salsa & a Mexican salad

Wednesday: Orzo w/disappearing squash w/ tomato, basil & fresh mozzarella salad & Parmesan roasted cauliflower

Thursday: Eating out due to gurl's Spring Concert

Friday: Carrot ginger soup w/ spinach, roasted pumpkin, Asian pear, pepitas & goat cheese salad

Saturday: Tunisian Stew w/fresh bread

Sunday: Left-overs

Pumpkin Coconut Bread (VEGAN)

2010-03-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Alright...I just made this bread this afternoon and hands down, one of the best breads I have EVER made!!!! It is very moist, full of flavor and is vegan. I did alter the recipe some based on what I had in my house and to make it healthier. I completely omitted the white sugar, I used 1 1/2 cups of oat flour, I used pecans instead of walnuts and instead of oil I used applesauce and mmmmm. SO good!

Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups packed dark brown sugar
2/3 cup white sugar
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup coconut milk
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2/3 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 8 x 4 inch loaf pans.
Combine flour, sugars, pumpkin, oil, coconut milk, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mix until well blended. Fold in coconut and nuts. Pour into prepared pans.
Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Remove from oven. Cover with foil tightly, and allow to steam 10 minutes. Remove foil, and turn out onto cooling rack. Tent lightly with the foil, and allow to cool completely.

Monday Menus

2010-03-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry it isn't Monday...where does the time go?

Monday: Spicy tomato soup w/salad & fresh bread

Tuesday: Home-made pad Thai, fresh rolls & edamame

Wednesday: Farmer's casserole

Thursday:Potato leek & roasted garlic soup w/salad & fresh bread

Friday: Pizza & salad

Saturday: Black bean sweet potato enchiladas

Sunday:Left-over enchiladas

All in a week!

2010-03-19T03:45:00.001-07:00

I decided to post this picture from my boy's third birthday because I love it! I love the look on his face, love the candles in the dark and LOVED the carrot ginger cake w/cream cheese frosting! Happy Birthday little man. Can't believe it has been 3 years already!

SO much going on this last week and everything that I want to write about, well, just don't have the energy or the time. Here is a condensed version and I hope to write more at a later point about alla this!

the Barbie went "away"

the boy turned three

all of the remants of last years beauty in the garden have been removed

the garden has received a healthy dose of compost

the peas, sweet pea flowers, spinach, persian cress and garbanzo beans have been planted.

started the tomato, eggplant & basil seeds

finally sewed an apron for myself and some yoga bags

and I received word that I have been accepted to a WGST graduate program and offered a graduate assistant position for fall of 2010.

My head is spinning from the overload of information that I have gained this week-primarily on food issues and gardening. I hope to post some about that this weekend, but I have a very sick boy to take care of and cuddles and lovin' are on the top of the list!

Monday Menus

2010-03-02T12:47:00.000-08:00

Monday: Potato & leek gratin, balsamic & parmesan roasted cauliflower & salad

Tuesday: Spinach chickpea curry

Wednesday: Sushi & sesame tofu w/spinach sauteed in coconut oil

Thursday: Blackbean Soup

Friday: Calzones

Saturday: Small plates & salad

Sunday: Baked mac & cheese w/spinach salad

Adios Barbie!

2010-02-28T07:46:00.000-08:00

I knew this moment would come; one that I have loathed since the day she was born. It was just a matter of time before it happened...before Barbie came into our household. Yes, Babs is in our house right now as I write, and I cringe at the thought of it!

That is right I DESPISE Barbie! For many of you this may seem preposterous, but it's not really. I mean think about her; Barbie that is. Her torpedo tits, her #2 pencil legs, her tiny feet in their stilettos, her big hair and porn star make-up and her never-ending supply of clothing and accessories. So why wouldn't I want my daughter to play with Barbie?

Maybe because I don't want her to think that this is the "typical" way a womun should look.

Maybe because there is NO WAY a womun could ever achieve the Barbie body-type.

Maybe because I want her to value her mind and have a healthy body image.

Maybe because I want her to understand there is more to life than acquiring material things.

Maybe because I want to shelter her as long as possible from the harsh, cruel world and all of it's pressures and expectations of gurls and womyn to fit into an unattainable "perfect" Barbie-like clone. I know this is unavoidable, that she is going to feel these pressures and expectations at some point in her life but if I do my job right, she will be armed with the tools to fight back. So this is why I say no to Barbie and Disney Princesses and Bratz and the such. I believe it is MY job as her mother and primary educator to instill in her at this very young age a foundation based on love and respect for herself and all people and living things around her. It is my job to teach her that beauty comes in many shapes, sizes, colors and forms. And until Mattel or Disney embrace this same philosophy they will not be welcome in my home.

I have not kicked Barbie out yet. I have let her be attached to my gurl's hip for a few days and I am letting this run it's course. But I have also taken this opportunity as a way to talk to her and teach her about womyn's bodies and about the important things to value in this world. Yes, I knew this day would come, but never in my wildest dreams imagined it would be when she was only five.

Monday Menus

2010-02-22T15:10:00.000-08:00

Monday: Spanish rice and groundnut stew

Tuesday: Baked potato bar, kale sauteed w/pine nuts and golden raisins & salad

Wednesday: Taco night

Thursday: pasta, w/homemade sauce, spinach & pinenuts

Friday: Veggie paella

Saturday: left-overs

Sunday: Curried carrot & parsnip soup, salad & fresh bread

Monday Menus

2010-02-15T13:31:00.001-08:00

Monday: Curried Vegetables w/dahl & coconut basmati rice

Tuesday: left-overs

Wednesday: Farmstand casserole

Thursday: Vegetable soup & fresh bread

Friday: left-overs

Saturday: Sweet potato enchiladas & Mexican salad

Sunday: Groundnut stew & Ethiopian take-out

Monday Menus

2010-02-09T06:46:00.000-08:00

Monday: Spinach & pea risotto & fresh salad

Tuesday: Italian Squash & Bean Soup, Panzanella salad & fresh bread

Wednesday: left-overs

Thursday: Egg Noodles w/tofu, broccoli & red peppers & a peanut sauce

Friday: Veggie Tamale Pie

Saturday: Veggie Soup

Sunday: Spinach & artichoke pesto w/ whole wheat pasta, tapenade & fresh bread

Okay I posted this super late-sorry...it was a crazy week and I never got a chance to get to this, but here it is. I am going to post two recipes this week. The first is the Spinach & Artichoke pesto.
I found this recipe on the Food Network website while looking for a healthy & fast recipe to use up a lot of spinach that I have, so this is what I decided to try. I have to say right now that I am not a big fan of Rachel Ray so I have never tried any of her recipes, but this one was good and the kids LOVED it! It was excellent with a loaf of fresh bread and some tapenade to eat on the side or even mixed right in.
So here is the link... http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/spinach-artichoke-whole-wheat-penne-recipe/index.html

I will say this though...I did not add all of the cooking water at the end, I only added about 1/4 cup because we like our sauces thick rather than thinned out. I also used the mint which was nice, but I think next time I will not and see how it is. This dish tastes very fresh and healthy which is nice at this time of year!

Another variaton that I tried with this was to do the pesto w/basil not the mint. I then sauteed onion, carrots & garlic in olive oil and added some toasted almonds in a large stock pot. I then mixed in the pasta, pesto and added the parm and some cream, salt and pepper. MMMM....SO much better this way, although not quite as healthy!

This next recipe that I am going to post is one of our FAVORITE soups and we eat it often during the winter. I will get it up soon!

One Amazing Squash!

2010-02-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

This is a Candy Roaster Winter Squash that I harvested from my garden last fall. I finally put it to use last week and here is what this beautiful, delicious squash became....

The beginnings of soup,

The soup as it is coming together...

And it's finished...Madras Curry Spiced Squash Soup

And then there was the salad. I tossed some cubed squash in canola oil and maple syrup and a few red pepper flakes and then roasted them in the oven and threw them in a salad with sheep's milk feta, toasted pepitas, currants, red onion and a maple syrup vinaigrette. MMMMM....

And then the cookies.....

And then I STILL had some cubed squash left over so I made a squash & chickpea curry.

And I still had enough pureed squash to give away a pint and freeze another 2 pints. That was one AMAZING squash!

Imbolc, the festival of lights

2010-02-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

My friends today we celebrate Imbolc, the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox in the northern hemisphere! Also known as "The Festival of Lights", fire, initiation and purification are an important aspect of this festival. The lighting of candles and fires represents the return of warmth and the increasing power of the sun over the coming months.This is a time to call in the light, think about which seeds to plant, and the welcome of new ideas. A time when the earth and many of her creatures experience quickening - the knowing that we stir with new life!

This day in some traditions is known as the Festival of Bridgit . Bridgit is the Celtic goddess of poetry and healing. As both a goddess and saint she is also associated with holy wells, sacred flames and healing. If you are interested in this fascinating Celtic Goddess look here.

"Imbolc is a word believed to be derived from the Old Irish i mbolg which translates as 'In the belly' , referring to the pregnancy of Ewes - an event which coincided with the onset of spring. Initially celebrated on February 1st, the festival of Brigit represented the point in the Celtic year that divided winter in half; where the crone aspect of the cold months recedes heralding the return of the young spring maiden. The festival of Imbolc celebrates the increasing strength of the new God, still within his child form, and a return of the maiden aspect of the Goddess in the form of Brigit." by Lisabeth Cheever-Gessaman, Imbolc : The Festival of Brigit

Last year I began my Imbolc tradition by dedicating time to rummaging through all of my seeds, blessing them and then starting my garden plans. Tonight I plan to make a fire and bless my seeds and I encourage you to start your own imbolc ritual to celebrate.

Monday Menus

2010-02-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Monday: breakfast for dinner: poached eggs on a bed of sauteed spinach w/fresh feta, home-fried potatoes and smoothies

Tuesday: Carrot ginger soup and brown rice salad

Wednesday: Black Bean and Chocolate Chili w/all of the fixin's

Thursday: veggie burgers

Friday: Calzones and salad

Saturday: Loubieh

Sunday: Taco & fajita night at the request of the kids

So maybe I've gone soft...

2010-02-01T06:40:00.000-08:00

I've gone soft. There, I have said it. Something that over the last few months has slowly been eating away at me. Something that is not expected from a feminist-right? We are hard, and tough; solid as rocks. But not this feminist; it is true, I have completely turned to mush. I have avoided feminist literature, I have dodged challenging conversations and I have pushed anything academic to the far, far corners of my brain in hopes that it may be there one day if I need it.

So does this upset me? No, it doesn't; or I guess I should say it hasn't bothered me until recently. You see I am a feminist and I do believe that this system of capitalist patriarchy that our country thrives on is a load of bullshit and yes, I am sick of it subjecting us women and I do believe that there is still enormous amounts of work that need to be done and that I need to be doing it....but I am tired.

There, I said it! I AM TIRED! I have been tired for 5 years now and this patriarchy load of crap has been the last thing I have wanted to think about when my eyelids feel like lead weights! That is life, right?
That is motherhood, right?
So should I just suck it up?
Who knows! What I do know is that I have taken a five year hiatus from pursuing academia or a career so that I could be a stay home mother. And on most days I am cool with that. But on some days I struggle.

Yeah, I know that I am in a privileged position to be staying home right now with my kids, but not as privileged as most would think (topic for another day- the choices and sacrifices we made, not forced into, but made). And as every stay-home mother knows, it is not always easy and can be a dark place at times. But is has provided me the opportunity to be the primary educator of my children as well as allowed me to explore areas of interest that I would have never been able to pursue as a working mother (gardening, cooking, sewing, reading...). Things that have mentally challenged me, but also have provided a creative outlet. So yeah, I am a feminist who LOVES to cook and sew and garden and eat and read and sleep! And... I am cool with that. But, I am also ready to move on. Yes, that is right, I am ready to get back into the rink and kick some sexist, racist, capitalist patriarchal butt! I am ready to use the knowledge I have gained over these last five years as a feminist mommy and start challenging the social norms we have about motherhood and parenting.

So you can expect more to come on alla this feminist motherhood and parenting stuff, as well as continued posts that show my softer side.

A new way to make chai...

2010-01-28T08:39:00.000-08:00

I am a big fan of chai as I have posted in the past and I refuse to buy chai tea bags because I belive they do not taste anything like real chai. When I do make it from scratch it always makes too much since I am the only one who drinks it. When I saw this recipe the other day over at Angry Chicken I had to try it. I love the idea of being able to make your chai a cup at a time. The base is sweetened condensed milk (which I also am a big fan of) to which you add the spices and a little sugar. Keep it in your fridge (good for a couple of weeks, if it lasts that long) and whenever you are in the mood for some chai just add to your hot black tea. The recipe didn't call for ginger, but I added about 1/2 tsp. dried ginger to mine since that is the spice that I like to taste most in my chai. I will admit not as good as my chai recipe I posted last year, but still a much better tasting chai than the tea bags, especially if you are using good black tea leaves. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Monday Menus

2010-01-25T06:40:00.001-08:00

Monday: Veggie lasagna

Tuesday: Left-overs and salad w/roasted pumpkin, feta, pepitatas & a balsamic maple vinaigrette

Wednesday: Taco night

Thursday: Madras curry pumpkin soup, spinach salad and fresh bread

Friday: Pizza and spinach salad

Saturday: celebrating Chinese New Year with friends

Sunday: left-over pizza, spinach salad w/ fresh fruit & nuts & sauteed kale w/raisins & pinenuts

Recent Sewing Projects

2010-01-19T17:48:00.000-08:00

Here are my favorite sewing projects yet...banners for the kidz!

Monday Menus

2010-01-18T09:48:00.000-08:00

Monday: Arabic left-overs

Tuesday: Mushroom & spinach risotto

Wednesday: Farmer's market casserole & salad

Thursday: Caribbean beans & rice w/mango salsa & guacamole

Friday: Pasta with chunky tomatoe sauce, arugula & pine nuts

Saturday: Greg's Birthday...going out

Sunday: Chickpea & winter squash curry (recipe below) and fresh rolls and garlic naan

This is one of my favorite dishes that a dear friend turned me onto. I LOVE eating it with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or Arabic Labne on top of the curry and then topped with the cilantro!

Butternut Squash Curry

3 T. veg. oil
1 medium onion chopped
1 t. dried ginger or 2 t. fresh ginger
1/2 t. cumin
1/2 t. turmeric
1/4 t. cinnamon
2 t. yellow curry powder
1/2 t. cayenne pepper (or to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, cubed
1 1/4 c. veggie broth, a little more if starts to get too thick
1 butternut squash, cubed (not cooked)
1 lg. can chickpeas
cilantro for garnish

Heat oil in pan.

Add onion and saute until clear. Add all spices to onion and cook until flavors are infused.

Add the garlic for the last minute of sauteing the onion and spices.

To the pan add the tomatoes and the broth and mix in completely.

Then add cubed squash and let simmer at a low heat for about 20 minutes.

When squash is fork tender, add the chickpeas.

Heat the chickpea through and then serve over rice with cilantro.

Here is a photo of this dish that I made with the black chickpeas that I grew in my garden these last two years~

Sunshine take me away... far,far, away!!!!

2010-01-13T13:01:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you want to ride a rainbow to a magical land far away? A place where you fully rejuvenate. I wonder some days is that even possible. Will I EVER feel fully rested and on top of my game?

This is a picture from this past summer when we were lucky to see an entire rainbow over our neighborhood. It was so magical. It was one of those nights when we had friends over and the evening was complete perfection. The company was good, the food and sangria were good and the kids were running all over the yard having the time of their lives. It was a night to remember and the rainbow made it just that; an evening that we will never forget. And today I think about the rainbow, the sun and a magical place that I have never been, but is traveled to many times a year in my mind.

Monday Menus

2010-01-11T08:03:00.000-08:00

Monday: breakfast for dinner

Tuesday: egg noodles, steamed broccoli & miso soup

Wednesday: taco/fajitas night

Thursday: pasta w/ lentil tomato sauce

Friday: orzo & pea soup, salad & fresh bread

Saturday: going out for the day

Sunday: mujudarah (recipe below), tabbouleh, hummus & fresh Arabic bread

I LOVE mujudarah!! Probably because I LOVE caramelized onions. There are a couple of ways this dish can be made, but this is my favorite way to make it because of the flavor that the sweet onions add. Yes, this dish takes a long time to make, but is so worth it. I start this in the morning because I usually let the onions caramelize on med-low heat, which takes about 3 hours for them to be perfect for this dish. It is a perfect dish to make on a Sunday while you are buzzing around the house cleaning or getting ready for the week. Make sure to have fresh Arabic bread to eat this with.

Mujudarah:
1 Cup of green or brown lentils
1/2 Cup of white rice
3/4 Cup of olive oil
3-4 medium onions
1 Tbsp. salt
6 cups of water

Peel onions and slice thin. Heat the oil in a large pot or dutch oven. Add the onions and cook on medium low heat. Make sure to stir often so they don't burn or stick and if they start to cook to fast turn the heat down since you want to caramelize them. Somewhere around 3 hours.

Add lentils and water to the pot and turn heat up to medium. When it starts to simmer, turn down a little and cook for 20 minutes.

Add rice and salt and bring back to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Turn off heat and let sit for 10-15 minutes so that the lentils and rice will absorb all of the liquid. Enjoy with fresh bread.

Monday Menus

2010-01-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

Monday: Spinach & cheese stuffed pasta shells and salad

Tuesday: Kale Harvest pie, roasted yellow beets, salad & fresh bread

Wednesday: Thai red curry w/veggies and spicy coconut rice

Thursday: Loubieh siami (recipe below) & salad

Friday: calzones & salad

Saturday: Going to a potluck, taking sweet potato & black bean hash

Sunday: tomato bulgar soup & salad

We make this often so I thought I would finally put it on here because I have had a lot of requests. Enjoy.

Kale Harvest Pie:

If you want, include a mixture of other greens (Swiss chard, spinach, turnip greens) for varied flavor if you want.
3 pounds untrimmed kale or other greens

3 tablespoons butter, divided

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
small red or yellow pepper, finely chopped

2 small zucchini or yellow summer squash, shredded

2 small carrots or 1 large, shredded

2/3 cup fresh chopped basil or a couple of TBSP. dried

salt and pepper

3 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, but I have used pepper jack, shredded Mexican mix, Gruyere', Dubliner and they ALL taste great so I suggest use whatever you like!

1 cup fresh bread crumbs

Trim stems and ribs from kale and discard. Wash, drain, and chop into bite-size pieces.
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion and garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add remaining vegetables and basil. Cook, covered, over medium heat for 10 minutes. Uncover and simmer gently until liquid has evaporated. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and cool slightly. Add eggs and pour into a buttered, shallow baking dish or pie pan. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Melt remaining butter in a skillet and saute bread crumbs until golden. Sprinkle over the pie.
Bake at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

The other recipe that I am giving you this week is for a common Arabic dish made with onions, green beans and tomatoes. It is an easy, fast and healthy dinner that we eat over brown rice or egg noodles, but is excellent with white rice as well. The flavor improves as it sits and the flavors can mesh so I will usually make this in the morning and heat back up for dinner or even the night before.

Loubieh Siami
1 Quart of canned green beans or 2 cans from the grocery store. If you are using fresh green beans about 1 1/2 lbs.

1 Large onion, chopped

1/3 cup of olive oil

1/2 cup of water (optional)

1 28 oz. can of diced tomatoes, I use the Dei Fratelli seasoned diced tomatoes if I am not using my own canned tomatoes.

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. of allspice and pepper

1/2 tsp. cumin

Cook onion in hot oil until tender. If using fresh green beans add them and let them cook down for 10-15 minutes. Add the tomatoes with their juices and the water if using. Sprinkle with the salt and spices. Cook on medium heat for 25 or until the green beans are tender.

NOTE: When using canned or frozen green beans add them after the tomatoes, onion and spices have cooked for about 20 minutes. Cook until the beans are hot.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

It is the first day of 2010 and I am not sure how I even feel about that. Right now I feel like my head is full of thick fog; extremely thick fog. I am still trying to wrap my head around the fact that yet another year has flown by and I am not sure where it went. We have had an interesting year and in all honesty I am happy that it is closed out and a new year full of new memories, challenges and drama awaits.

I have been ignoring the blog for awhile now and have not been on here to really write. Too many other things that have been keeping my brain in overload mode such as family in from out of town, an intimate relationship with my sewing machine, hosting holiday dinners and all of the usual craziness that accompanies the holiday season. So instead of writing or reading during my down time I have been in front of the television indulging in past episodes of Mad Men (all time favorite show) and getting caught up on Weeds before the new season starts thanks to Netflix.

But now the holidays are done. And there are still so many things to do in this first month of 2010. I want to sit down by a fire and bury my head in my new books, yet I can't. Too many other things racing through my mind. This year is a big change in our household. Many changes to take place. A child turning 6. Another one turning 3. The 3 year old will be starting school. I will hopefully be starting school. Trying to figure out how to pay tuition for three on one income. Maybe getting a part-time job. Potty training. Garden planning on a budget. Sewing my heart out to try and make some extra $. And the list goes on. And whatever else the universe has in store for us. Change is good; not always easy, but good. So welcome to our lives Ms. Change and I embrace you and all you have to offer us! And I hope you do the same this year. And I wish you a new year full of prosperity, love, joy and peace.

Tis the Season

2009-12-17T05:58:00.001-08:00

For some reason during the holiday season I always hear people talking about how surprised they are at how generous and kind the general population is at this time of the year. And every time I hear it I can't help but to smirk. I think to myself hmmm...that is interesting because isn't that how we should live our lives on a daily basis? Whether you believe in Jesus, Buddha, Muhammad, or are an atheist doesn't matter because this a basic tenant that we try to live our lives by, right? You know, do unto others as you would want done unto you kind of thing?

I can't help but to say I feel the exact opposite at this time of year, which makes me dread the holiday season (yes, I say holiday because I have many friends who don't celebrate Christmas or the birth of Jesus) just as much as I LOVE it; because I DO love it! But, I feel that it is this time of year that brings the worst out in people. The, "I am the only one who matters, get out of my way, my life, kids and presents are better than yours" attitudes along with people's pure selfishness. The last two weeks I have witnesses so many accounts of this type of behavior that it has depressed me deeply as well as created a level of stress in my own life.

Seriously, in two weeks here are just a few of things I have witnessed:

Too many drivers COMPLETELY blowing through stop signs in store/mall parking lots to even count!
2 people running red lights that were REALLY red.
One old lady hitting my child in a grocery store-YES it did happen, and was beyond crazy and my claws came out on this one!
3 grocery store clerks getting their ears chewed off by customers for things they had no control of or responsibility for.
Being cut in front of twice while trying to shop for gifts.
And this list goes on, but I will leave it at this.

Why is this I wonder? Is it really THAT stressful this time of year? I just don't get it. The sad part of it all is that this always makes me want to stay in and do all of my shopping online, which is just not acceptable, especially with the economic condition of our state & country. So I venture out day after day just hoping to spread a little peace in this world and ofter a smile and kind word instead of a nasty growl and insult and I challenge you to do the same! :)

Monday Menus

2009-12-14T13:39:00.000-08:00

Monday: Tuscan Beans w/sage, polenta cutlets w/ sun-dried tomatoes & fresh bread

Tuesday: Taco Bar Night

Wednesday: Homemade Pizza & Ceasar salad

Thursday: Ceasar Salad, Left-over Tuscan beans & polenta & fresh bread

Friday: Salad, Butternut Squash Soup & fresh bread

Saturday : Salad & Harvest Kale Pie

Sunday: Groundnut stew

Monday Menus

2009-11-16T14:45:00.000-08:00

Monday: Carrot Ginger soup, salad w/maple roasted pumpkin & feta, roasted brussel sprouts

Tuesday: Kale harvest pie

Wednesday: Greek veggies & orzo w greek salad

Thursday: Chickpea spinach curry w/ coconut basmasti rice

Friday: Caribbean beans & rice w/mango salsa

Saturday: Taking the night off & ordering out

Sunday: Veggie pot-pie w/salad

Monday Menus

2009-11-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

Busy Week & it has taken me too long...but here it is!

Monday: Winter Minestrone

Tuesday: Baked sweet potato w/kale & ricotta, left- over soup, salad & fresh bread

Wednesday: Pasta w/tomato sauce, salad & bread

Thursday: Chilaquile w/guacamole, salsa & chips

Friday: Walnut-lentil burgers & salad

Saturday: Date night

Sunday: Mujudra, spinach & kale w/onions, hummus & pita bread

Monday Menus

2009-11-02T15:08:00.001-08:00

Monday: Farm-stand Casserole

Tuesday: Hubbie's cooking night ( I have a massage :) )

Wednesday: Black Bean Soup w/ Mexican Salad

Thursday: homemade quinoa burgers w/ home fries

Friday: pizza night

Saturday: carry-out

Sunday: sesame, tamari & ginger baked tofu, broccoli & peppers w/rice

*I have had a really hard time finding a vegetarian black bean soup that has a lot of flavor. The recipe I tried this week was new and we all loved it so I thought I would share. :)

Vegetarian Black Bean Soup

10 sun dried tomatoes
1 cup of boiling water

1 1/2 cup of finely diced onions
3 garlic cloves
1 jalapeno finely diced
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 tsp. cumin
1/3 cup water
28 oz. can undrained canned tomatoes
4 cups of undrained cooked black beans
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
additional water or tomato juice

sour cream & shredded cheese for toppings

In small bowl, cover the sun-dried tomatoes with the boiling water and set aside.

In a soup pot, saute onions, garlic and chili pepper in the oil until the onions are translucent. Add the cumin, 1/3 cup of water and the juice from the tomatoes. Chop up the tomatoes coarsely and add to the pot. Cover, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes. Add the black beans and their liquid, continue to simmer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Drain and chop the softened sun-dried tomatoes. Add them to the soup and cook for 5-10 minutes longer, until the onions are tender. Stir in the cilantro and remove from heat. Remove half of the soup and puree, adding the extra water or tomato juice if it gets too thick. Pour back in to the pan, stir and heat until desired temperature.

Enjoy topped with sour cream and/or cheese.

Los Dios De Los Muertos

2009-11-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

Day of the Dead is something that our family has celebrated the last couple of years. It has been a wonderful way to teach our children the importance of remembering members of our family who have passed away. We take time to tell stories that keep memories alive, we make favorite foods of those who have died and we set up an alter with photos, flowers, and candles to remind us to say prayers of thanks for all that our ancestors did to help us have the lives we have today.

It has been an excellent tool to help my five year old daughter be able to talk about death and start to understand it is part of the natural life cycle of every living thing. It also has been a great way to teach my children that through death we celebrate life.

This year I picked up this awesome fabric for our altar (Pink Chalk Fabrics) as well as some fun tissue flowers and skull trinkets from Mexican town. For those of you who are not familiar with this holiday, it is one that primarily celebrated in Mexico and by Latin Americans in the United States. It is celebrated on Nov. 1st & 2nd (in connection with All Saints Day and All Souls Day) and the celebration includes trips to the cemeteries to pay respects, special meals & treats and altars that are adorned with flowers, pictures, sugar skulls & food to honor the deceased. One thing that I have found very interesting is that scholars have traced the origins of this holiday back thousands of years to an Aztec festival in honor of a goddess, Mictecacihuatl, whose role is to keep watch over the bones of the dead. Her cult is sometimes held to persist in the common Mexican worship of Santa Muerte; this I find VERY fascinating!

I encourage you to make this holiday part of your family festivities at this time of year, especially if you have little ones who are curious about death and you are having a hard time approaching the issue with them.

Here is the recipe that we use to make the traditional Day of the Dead Bread, Pan Muerto:

Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)
Ingredients 1/4 cup milk 1/4 cup (half a stick) margarine or butter, cut into 8 pieces 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 package active dry yeast 1/4 cup very warm water 2 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour, unsifted 1/2 teaspoon anise seed 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons sugar

Instructions: Bring milk to boil and remove from heat. Stir in margarine or butter, 1/4 cup sugar and salt.
In large bowl, mix yeast with warm water until dissolved and let stand 5 minutes. Add the milk mixture.
Separate the yolk and white of one egg. Add the yolk to the yeast mixture, but save the white for later. Now add flour to the yeast and egg. Blend well until dough ball is formed.

Flour a pastry board or work surface very well and place the dough in center. Knead until smooth. Return to large bowl and cover with dish towel. Let rise in warm place for 90 minutes. Meanwhile, grease a baking sheet and preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Knead dough again on floured surface. Now divide the dough into fourths and set one fourth aside. Roll the remaining 3 pieces into "ropes."

On greased baking sheet , pinch 3 rope ends together and braid. Finish by pinching ends together on opposite side. Divide the remaining dough in half and form 2 "bones." Cross and lay them atop braided loaf.
Cover bread with dish towel and let rise for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix anise seed, cinnamon and 2 teaspoons sugar together. In another bowl, beat egg white lightly.
When 30 minutes are up, brush top of bread with egg white and sprinkle with sugar mixture, except on cross bones. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.

Autumn in Nature

2009-10-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

Fall, leaves, fall; die,
flowers, away;
Lengthen night and
shorten day;
Every leaf speaks bliss to me
Fluttering from the autumn tree.
I shall smile when wreaths
of snow
Blossom where the rose
should grow;
I shall sing when
night's decay
Ushers in a drearier day.

Emily Bronte

More Projects Completed

2009-10-26T15:17:00.001-07:00

Coffee cuff...

P.J. top for little Jonah

Mom's old ugly sewing table....

Newly painted just the way I want it!

Monday Menus

2009-10-26T15:04:00.001-07:00

Monday: Baked Mac & Cheese for kids, Mexican salad for me

Tuesday: Cabbage Soup

Wednesday: Sweet Potato & Black Bean Enchiladas

Thursday: left-overs

Friday: homemade pizza/calzone night

Saturday: small plates & soup for halloween

Sunday: Farmer's Vegetable Casserole

Shut Up and Sing

2009-10-23T05:38:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I am not one for country music. I have listened to it in the past (forced mostly by my mom) and I did go through a short phase where I listened to it voluntarily, but it has been at least 15 years since I have sat down and listened to "country music." It is one of the two types of music that has never really done anything for me; the other being heavy metal. So when Natalie Maines, the front-womun for The Dixie Chicks, made a basic anti-war statement the night their 2003 tour opened in London, I had no idea what she said or the repercussions of her statements that these three womyn have dealt with almost continuously since that night. It wasn't until a good friend recently gave me a copy of their documentary, Shut Up and Sing, that I was aware of what was said, what has happened because of what was said, and how bad-ass these womyn truly are!

This documentary follows these womyn from the opening of their "Top of the World" tour (2003) through five years of backlashes, boycotts, death threats, pregnancies and the writing and production of a new album. It shows the strength and convictions and sisterhood that these womyn possess. It also shows how many people in this county say they believe in free speech and yet what they really mean is that they believe in free speech if what you are saying is something that they agree with and support. It baffles me that all of the controversy was over what Natalie Maines had said after singing their hit Traveling Soldier (in reference to the war) was: "And we're ashamed that the President of the United States is from Texas."

REALLY?

THIS comment is un-American and un-patriotic?

Exercising their right to the 1st Amendment isn't American?

Why is it that Rush Limbaugh or other right-wing conservatives who spew messages of hate on a daily basis aren't held to the same standards?

When is the last time the radio stations which air these despicable people (such as Rush Limbaugh) have been boycotted?

And why is it that when a young womun stands up and exercises her right to the 1st Amendment she is a loud-mouth, pushy, liberal bitch that needs to be silenced?

Just some questions that have been going through my mind.

If you haven't seen this documentary I highly recommend it. And if you are anything like me, you will want to go out and buy all of their albums and 10 copies of this DVD to give to your friends and to show these fine ladies your support.

Here is a video of The Dixie Chicks singing their song, Not Ready to Make Nice, which I think is pretty kick-ass!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHH8bfPhusM&feature=related

Monday Menus

2009-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

Monday: Chickpea & Spinach Curry w/ Brown Rice and side of roasted broccoli & brussel sprouts

Tuesday: Taco night ( at request of the kids :) )

Wednesday: Potato Leek Soup, Salad & almost fat-free corn bread

Thursday: Homemade Pizza/Calzone Night

Friday: Italian Bean & Squash Soup

Saturday: Sweet Potato, Carmalized Onion and Butternut Squash Lasagne, Salad w/fruit & nuts

Sunday: Left-overs

Monday Menus

2009-10-12T18:58:00.001-07:00

Lately I have been trying to set weekly menus and I haven't had a lot of success with it. As a result my grocery bills haven't been the best and so I need to make this a priority. So I decided that I would start posting my weekly menu on the blog to help keep me on track. So every Monday I will do a post titled "Monday Menus" and occasionally I will add recipes for some of our favorite delicious and fast vegetarian meals.

MONDAY: Indian-curry Sweet Potato Soup (recipe below), Arugula w/fruits, nuts & goat cheese and fresh bread

TUESDAY: Veggie Taco Bar Night

WEDNESDAY: Whole Wheat Pasta w/ Green Sauce, Roasted Beets, Carrots& Red Onions in Fennel Pollen & fresh bread

THURSDAY: Left-over soup & pasta

FRIDAY: Carry-out Arabic food

SATURDAY: Veggie Minestrone, Salad & Fresh Bread

SUNDAY: leftover soup, Salad & Fresh Bread

Indian Curry Sweet Potato Soup:

* Ready in 25-30 minutes

2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 small yellow onion chopped
1 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 large cloves of garlic, minced
1 1/2 Tbsp. Madras Curry Powder
2 1/2-3 cups of veggie broth
1 can of light coconut milk
3 cups of shredded spinach or kale

In large pot heat oil & then saute onions, potatoes, and garlic until onion is just tender. Add spices and stir continuously for another minute. Add 2 cups of the broth & bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simmer covered for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Add coconut milk & stir to mix well. Pour into a food processor or use emulsion blender to blend until smooth. Add the additional broth until you get it the consistency that you want it. Then add the spinach/kale & cook until the greens are wilted. Season with salt & pepper, serve hot.

* The original recipe is a little different. It also called for a can of chickpeas to add in with the spinach & I did so and my whole family thought the texture combination was horrible so I ended up straining out the chickpeas and making them into a dip for crackers.

A lot of randomness

2009-10-08T04:38:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest and say when I sit down to start a blog I can never quite get into it these days. Maybe because I have so many other things pulling me in different directions. I have started a few entries that I do plan to finish, but right now sitting down to the computer to write just does not do it for me. If I am going to be on the computer I'd rather be doing brainless activities such as bouncing through fabric sights and sewing blogs; drooling over what future projects await.

But as for right now I have produce that I must can, freeze, dry and cure for the winter. I have been sewing and trying to learn some basic embroidery stitches to get ready for Christmas. I have been doing a lot of baking as well; I think it is the cold weather that has prompted the need for comfort foods and carbs. AND....I have started my graduate school application in hopes of starting school next fall. Yes, much is going on right now and I am trying to soak it all in. I know that if I am in school this time next year a lot of this other stuff will be put on hold for a couple of years. And did I mention I have two kids to take care of, chase around and help with homework?

Projects completed!

2009-10-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here are the set of pajamas that I FINALLY finished! I finished this set last week as well as the top of another set I started back in the summer and seemed to never get around to finishing (sorry Rebecca- I hope they still fit!) I am not sure why, but I seemed to have issues every time I sat down to a project. First it was not measuring enough fabric and so then I had to go back to the store I purchased it to find out that they were completely out and not getting anymore in. So, the search online began to find this flower fabric or one that was complementary. I also had some issues with my bobbin winder that delayed these projects that sent me to friendly neighbor's machines to do some bobin winding. Then I ran out of thread and well, let's just say there was a lot of life happening in the midst of all of this as well.

But I am very happy that both projects are done and now I can FINALLY move on to start Christmas gifts and goodies! By the way for those of you who are interested the fabric for this set is by Erin McMorris; part of her Park Slope collection.

And more tomatoes....

2009-10-01T03:49:00.000-07:00

Oven-Roasting to store for winter....

This is how my table is at this exact moment due to the fact that there was a frost warning for last night.

Tomatoes, Tomatoes, Tomatoes

2009-09-25T04:21:00.001-07:00

Beautiful new fabric for new projects

2009-09-17T06:28:00.000-07:00

Cookin' up something

2009-09-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a lot of time in the kitchen lately cooking, canning and baking with all of the beautiful produce that the garden and local markets have sent my way...here is what has been on our table...

Fresh Arugula w/ local strawberries, goat cheese, e.v.o.o. and white balsamic fig infused vinegar

Mixed beets, carrots and red onion roasted in e.v.o.o., salt and fennel pollen

Rustic Swiss Chard tart with goat cheese and an oatmeal crust

A beautiful loaf of "No-knead" bread that I proudly made

and my new favorite dessert, a plum kuchen

There is a chill in the air

2009-08-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

By the chill in the air right now you would guess it to be late September or maybe even early October, but it is August. That is right it is the end of August, cloudy, rainy and 63 degrees. We have had a our fair share of cool weather this month. I can't say that I am sad about that.This typical fall weather always puts me at ease; helps me move a little slower and also helps me to regain focus. But even though I love sitting here on my couch with the cool air pouring through my house and the smell of chai simmering on my stove and being bundled up in sweat pants and wool socks, I can't help but feel a little cheated out of summer this year. The weather has been perfect by my standards (mostly in the mid-70s to mid-80s) my garden's full potential has been lost. It is in all of it's beauty and still offers our family so much, but I still can't help but to think that so many large and glorious heirloom tomatoes may never nourish my body and soul. And my new budding figs...oh how I have fussed over them this summer and hope to have the experience of picking and savoring a ripe fig from my very own tree. But there is a chill in the air and my body tells me to rest, to forget about tending to the garden's needs right now and instead tend to my own.

Calgone take me away!

2009-08-13T12:13:00.001-07:00

This summer has been rough; I am not going to lie or even sugar coat things. The weather this summer has been anything but summer-like. Greg has been sick and is still dealing with infections and such. The kids have been at war with each other ALL summer, which has been comical at times, but mostly just a tad bit of hell. And I have been in a really pissy mood and weird funk all summer.

Lately, I have been trying to pull myself back to realms of normalcy and I have been trying to find the good in everything and everyone (including myself), which hasn't been easy. Do you ever have those days/weeks/months where nothing seems to come easily? Not joy, laughter, peace, love, or even anger...a time in which you feel like you are just suspended in time trying to get somewhere, trying to rip the callouses off your heart and remember what it is like to feel again; really FEEL. I have been trying to do this as of lately and by lately I mean these last few weeks or so and I am not sure how far I am getting in this process. I know this week I have had some wicked PMS and so I have regressed a bit! But honestly, I am trying and that is what counts right?

So in doing so I decided I would post some pictures of things that bring joy to my heart and puts a smile on my face. And then I am going to go take a lovely bubble bath in the dark. Good night.

New York, New York

2009-07-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

I have been in many cities and countries around this world that have offered me so much joy and beauty, but there is something about NYC that holds a special place in my heart. Two weeks ago, Gregory and I had the opportunity to go to NYC for five days just the two of us. That is right, no kids! Thanks to a wonderful sister-in-law and friend we were able to steal some much needed time just the two of us; granted Greg was there for a conference, but the evenings were ours and the days were mine to explore the city and go wherever my feet and heart desired to take me. It was the first time as a mom that I had the chance to wake up on my own schedule and do whatever I wanted to do for not just one day, but 3 whole days! Now for those of you who are moms, you know what this means and you know that this is a fantasy that we all drift to when shit is hitting the fan at home...to be on our own, by ourselves, in some foreign place to us (for me it is always a high rise hotel is some city) and to just be....and it was THAT, that I was able to do!

I spent much of my time wandering the city streets just checking out the diversity that it had to offer. During the days I spent some time on my own with a coffee in hand from a local espresso bar and book in my new bag (that was made just for this trip), but instead of reading I found myself just wanting to walk and surround myself with the local bustle of a city; a real city ( oh how pathetic Detroit really is...). Yes, I know you probably are thinking that NYC is too big to walk, and you are right, partially, but if I choose to do so and I found it quite easy to navigate on foot. And so I managed to go from our hotel in Manhattan up to East Village and through Soho and back to Manhattan again with just my trusty feet and a good pair of Danskos.

I also spent some time with a couple of friends from high school who transplanted themselves to the city almost ten years ago. Friends that warm my soul and make my heart smile. It was so refreshing to reconnect with a particular soul who I haven't seen in years, but still somehow knows me well. We spent a lot of time laughing about all of our stupidity in high school, but also spent more time getting reacquainted with where we are at now in life as adults. We haven't seen each other in six maybe even seven years, yet it was like we hadn't skipped a beat and we were still able to connect on the same level that we did 15 years ago with no expectation and none of the bullshit; which I have found can be so hard to do.

He ended up being the absolute best tour guide and introduced me to some of the best local secrets in East Village, Soho and Brooklyn and here are some recommendations if you find your self in NYC anytime soon.

*Macchiato Espresso Bar (midtown, E. 44th st.), was a small espresso bar a couple of blocks from my hotel and I found it by wandering through the streets looking for an independent local espresso bar; I refused to do Starbucks since there were so many other options! This place caught my eye by their bright turquoise sign and the dozen of old Italian men standing out front having lively discussions in Italian at 8 a.m. every morning. As you step into this place you feel as though you truly may be in a coffee bar in Italy, maybe Milan. It has a sleek, gorgeous interior and the coffee and espresso were definitely the best I have had in a long time. If you are willing to wait in a line that in out the door (maybe this is just early mornings, not sure) and don't mind being yelled at for your coffee order and having to yell it back... you will be pleased. The chocolate croissants were also fresh and out of this world.

*Moonstruck Diner (mid-town, 2nd Ave.), we went here for breakfast one morning and the eggs Benedict is decent, not great, but the interior of this cafe was worth the trip. Almost every inch of this place is covered in cut-glass mosaics. I can't fathom how much time and energy went into making these unique and beautiful creations.

* Stage Restaurant (East Village), polish diner with the best and most beautifully pink borst I have ever tasted and veggie cabbage leaves and fresh blueberry perogies that kept bringing my fork back to the plate for more and more and ...more.

* Bluestockings (East Village), an amazing independent bookstore that had a wonderful selection of feminist and LGTBQ literature.

*8 Mile (Soho), new Aussie bar, which we thought was a perfect location for two native Detroiters to enjoy a couple of drinks in the early afternoon.

* Vosges' (Soho), a haut chocolatier that has exquisite chocolate combinations and some amazing ice cream-vanilla cream with madras curry and coconut, mmmm..... Also their naga, woolloomooloo and red fire chocolate bars are divine. They frequently do free champagne and chocolate tastings.

*Total Wine Bar (Brooklyn), a small and cozy wine bar in the Park Slope district (5th Ave. & St. Marks) that offers a small selection of wine, beer and appetizers. I can't say that I tried a variety of the wines that they offer due to the fact that my tour guide/friend bar tends here and he had bought us a bottle of his favorite, which was superb. It is small and the set-up of the bar does seem a little unfriendly, but once you walk in and sit down it is obvious that is a local hangout known for it's friendly bartenders and crowd as well as the selection of good, inexpensive wine. If Mike is working tell him I sent you! Also, The Chocolate Room is two doors down just in case you love good chocolate and wine together :)

*The Chocolate Room (Brooklyn), has some of the best chocolate I have ever had, seriously! Particularly, the dark chocolate truffles filled with lavender infused caramel. I also sampled their layered chocolate cake and hot chocolate and well, my mouth is watering right now just talking about it. If you ever go to NYC or Brooklyn you HAVE to go here! That is if you like chocolate :)

*Brooklyn Museum of Art is now home to the beautiful feminist exhibit, The Dinner Table by Judy Chicago. This long-term installation is breathtaking and something that I recommend every womyn to see, even if you don't consider yourself a feminist. Although this exhibit does feature plates that are made to look like different yonis, there is more to this exhibit than the "vagina plates" as my tour guide likes to call them! This exhibit is a triangular table that measures 48 feet on each side and is the home for the 39 place settings that celebrate strong womyn throughout history. It does so by using the typical domestic mediums such as weaving, embroidery, sewing and china painting. For me, standing before these place settings and observing the meticulous detail that has gone into each place setting gave me such an appreciation for the many womyn (there were hundreds) who put in so much time into helping Judy Chicago create this installation. It is something that we, as womyn, can all appreciate on some level. If you are interested in this exhibit and are not going to make it to Brooklyn anytime soon you can go to the museum's websight and in their search engine type in "The Dinner Party" and you can do an online tour of this exhibit. It is nothing like seeing it in person, but does give you somewhat of an idea of how magnificent this exhibit truly is.

*Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is right next to the art museum and is so damn beautiful! I have been to NYC a few times in the past, and each time I had spent time in central park which is wonderful as well, but the botanical gardens feel magical. It has many different gardens to offer through all seasons: the lily pools and terrace, rock garden, bonsai garden, rose garden, herb garden, oh I could have spent a whole day just here in the gardens. These few pictures are the ONLY photos I took during this trip, which was strange since I am usually all about taking photos I guess I was was too preoccupied with other things.

The picture below is of the vegetable garden in which they use strickly as part of a day camp to teach urban children about gardening and vegetables. It is not that good of a picture, but you can see how large it is, which was very exciting for me to see!

Ahhhh....New York, New York. I miss you already!!!!

Life goes on

2009-06-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your kind thoughts, prayers and energy that so many of you have been sending our way. Greg is almost fully recovered and we are finally starting to get back on a schedule, well, kind of...it is summer. As July approaches quickly, we are trying to find a good balance between catching up on the rest that we all need and getting ready for a week in NYC without the kids and then off to northern Michigan for a family vacation.

This year I have found that I am spending way too much time weeding my garden and worrying over my wimpy tomato plants. Due to the lack of heat this summer the tomatoes are taking forever to grow. My plants were pretty small to begin with since I have refused to buy grow lights, but I am now thinking that next spring I will be making that investment.

I have harvested almost 7 pounds of sugar snap peas and I think the gurl and boy ate about 2-3 pounds while playing outside every day. They loved sitting in the pea patch and snacking, and I loved watching them do so!

At this point my lettuce is still kickin' strong and I have harvested almost 4 pounds of lettuce (which is A LOT) and about 3 pounds of arugula. My beets, carrots and onions are doing wonderful and I hope to have pictures soon of some of those harvests along with the garlic that will soon be harvested.

It is finally starting to feel like summer and I am excited to see what challenges, changes and experiences that July offers.

Just Breathe

2009-06-09T15:53:00.000-07:00

These last few days have been a blur. I am so stressed, so worried and so sleep deprived. Whether you are a patient or a visitor, the hospital is not a fun place to be. As most of you who read this blog know, Greg has been in the hospital for a couple of days now with a crazy MRSA staff infection. I know this is serious and I know that this could be something that he/we deal with numerous times if the antibiotics can't truly wipe this infection out of his system. Which is common when dealing with MRSA since it is resistant to numerous antibiotics.

I am scared. Terrified probably better describes how I feel. I lay in my bed alone at night praying for help to fall asleep so that my wandering mind won't think of all of the possibilities and what ifs of this situation. Praying that I won't become my mother. My mom is a widow. My mom was widowed at a young age, 35, with three children to look after; me-a 12 year old, my sister who was 3 at the time and my brother who was 18 months.

The fact that my dad died when I was so young affected my life greatly. Whose life doesn't it affect when someone they love dies? It wasn't until I had my first child that I realized the extent of this fear. After both of my babies were born I dealt with serious cases of anxiety anytime Greg left the house. I worked through it both times and even though this is still a massive fear of mine I have been able to work through it on most occasions. And I am trying my hardest to work through this right now. I will admit it is difficult. I know I am a strong womyn and I know I can work through whatever the universe hurls my way. But knowing that doesn't erase the past, the struggles and heartache that I have watched my mother go through daily. Then I stop myself and remind myself, "I am NOT my mother," and I AM strong and I WILL get through this and I have an amazing support network whose love, strength and kindness have given me and my little family so much during this bizarre ordeal and I am forever grateful.

I am not sure why I am writing this blog right now, this entry should be more for my private journal. But there is something compelling me to be open...to be honest...to be real...to show a side of myself so few people see and to just breathe.

My blooming garden

2009-06-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

The peony...Almost open...

FINALLY OPEN...smells SO good!

My first new growth on the fig tree

Some yummy lettuces

Some favorite purple flowers

It is finished

2009-06-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

This was last year at the begininning of putting in 4 new beds

And this was next to the garage where there was a massive rose bush that we were not fond of; to say the least.

And now this is what the area looks like...

SOOOOO happy that is it finished and my whole garden is planted!

Thank you lovely ladies.....

2009-05-26T17:27:00.001-07:00

I am grateful for all of the womyn in my life. I truly appreciate all that they have offered me; whether small or large, it all has made impressions on me and the world as I see it. I have realized in recent months that as you age and change, so do those relationships dearest to your heart. Some grow stronger, some take new shapes and forms and some slowly disintegrate to memories of the past. Change isn't always easy; especially when it affects matters of the heart. I have opened my heart to these changes and some have been very difficult to deal with and accept while others have offered a breath of fresh air. In this last year I have had some of the most beautiful womyn on this planet enter or re-enter my life and I feel very privileged. These womyn have taught me a lot about life and love as well as about differences and commonalities, forcing me to focus on being a better person every minute of every day.

Yesterday I had an opportunity to gather four of these womyn at my house for a couple of hours to enjoy good food and conversation free of stress and competition. There was something about yesterday that was able to restore a part of my spirit and my trust in other people; other womyn.
It was an interesting mix: the five of us womyn with our five children; a few whom never have met; a set of sisters, a set of cousins, two stay-home moms, three working moms, some tall womyn, some short womyn...basically it a house full of talking womyn.

From the moment of arrivals there were immediate bonds and it felt as though this was just one of many moments together. Maybe it will be the first of many... I don't know. I do know though that yesterday I opened my heart and home to four womyn who in just four short hours felt like family. And that is a wonderful feeling to have!

~Thank you my lovely ladies~

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

To all of the amazing mothers out there who are busting their asses for their families 24-7 I say a HUGE thank you! And I hope you all had a wonderful mother's day. I really do.
I hope you were able to sleep in.
I hope you were able to get breakfast in bed.
I hope you were able to do what YOU wanted for your entire day.
I hope your day wasn't full of kids whining, crying and fighting.
I hope the day encouraged you be a little reflective on the type of mother you want and strive to be.
I hope it filled you with an overwhelming sense of appreciation.
I hope all of this, or even some of this happened for you because you deserve it.

But, I am guessing it probably did not. I am guessing that it was just another ordinary day like every other day that left you falling into your bed at the end of it with pure exhaustion. Or maybe that was just me. Maybe I am the only mother out there who is a little bitter that I didn't have a good mother's day, or that I didn't get the one and only thing I asked for...TO SLEEP IN! I have sickness all around me and now I am sick again as well and I can't seem to get a break.

....it is now over a week later after my serious head cold has mostly passed and I am done sulking about what a shitty day my mother's day turned out to be. I will spare the details, but let's just say that many tears were shed...many. I wasn't going to post all of this until I realized that all of the mothers around me had really horrible days as well. As I had numerous (quite helarious) conversations over this last week with other womyn I realized that we all had wanted basic displays of appreciation and for whatever reason the day was just like any other day and we all went to sleep with some levels of disappointment.

For me, as I went to bed with disappointment and a little bitterness, I sat in bed reflecting on what it means to be a mother and I came to the hard realization that this is part of the job. You do what you do not for numerous accolades from those around you but because you want these human beings that you brought into this world to have the best life possible- to be happy, healthy, loved. And you do whatever you need to do to make that possible. Being a mother is the most self-less job there is; even on mother's day, the one day that you should be able to be a little selfish.
The following day I wrote my mother a letter thanking her for the endless amount of love and care that she has given through the years. As a mother I now realize and appreciate all that she has provided and sacrificed. Even though I don't even know the half of it, I do know as a mother what that means and I am appreciative.

From one mother to a world of mothers out there...thank you for all you do for us as womyn, daughters and other mothers. Thank you for the sacrifices that you have made for the next generation and for our mother earth.

She's Five

2009-05-04T05:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my little gurl turned five. There is something about the age five. The realization that you have a kid now, not a baby, or a toddler, but a kid. I watched her every move yesterday and I hung on every word, soaking her in like the sun. I wanted to remember this day for the rest of my life just like I remember the day that she was born. I am guessing she will remember it because she wasn't feeling well and spent most of the day on the couch resting. Presents were even uneventful, which was so heartbreaking to watch. My little gurl has a difficult time dealing with her allergies to mold and dust as well as some intense sinus issues for a little kid. The issues seem to have gotten worse this year and we have been trying as many natural remedies as possible to help her, but she still struggles when mold is high, which it was on her birthday. It breaks my heart to see her deal with all of this as such a young age. No one every wants to see their child sick. I watch how she struggles with these issues and wonder how it will affect her as she gets older.

It also makes me angry that to take care of her the way that we feel best, which is naturally, that we have to pay for it all out of our pockets because insurance refuses to cover it. The only "natural" practice that it does cover is our chiropractic and they are trying to find a way where they don't have to cover that either. Don't even get me started on the fact that we pay over $200 a month in copays for pretty much nothing! So...I will do what I can with the herbs and tinctures that we use and continue chiropractic and start her on cranio-sacral therapy sessions in hopes that I don't have to put her on some poison that will help her allergies, but damage her kidneys and liver in the process.

The highlight of the day was when I presented her with her very own birthday crown. Her face lit up and it was the only part of the day when I saw a real smile on her face. We finished her special day by reading her new books, The Paperbag Princess, The Whole Green World and Ladybug Girl and with her dessert request: popsicles.

As I ended my day writing in her journal I also looked at her birth pictures to remind myself of this beautiful journey that this little one and I have begun.