tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75330848610839933492024-03-13T09:21:13.282-06:00Simple & Healthy LivingSimple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-25755319191236573502014-12-18T13:55:00.003-07:002014-12-18T14:00:32.586-07:00Happy Chanukah! Healthy Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Chanukah Friends!<br />
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This year, I have created some fun and easy recipes to help kids and adults celebrate the festival of lights. Of course, the traditional latkes and sufganiot are delicious, but this year, let's make our menus a bit more exciting!<br />
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I am doing a very special hands-on kids cooking class at a Chanukah party this year and am excited to be making some new things. Check out the recipes below.</div>
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I am making:<br />
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- Grilled Homemade Nutella and Banana Dreidel Sandwiches</div>
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- Mini Star of David Fruit Skewers with Vanilla Cashew Cream</div>
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<strong>Grilled</strong> <strong>Homemade Nutella and Banana Dreidel Sandwiches</strong></div>
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I adapted this delicious recipe from the blog: <a href="http://thedaintypig.com/blog/2014/1/31/macrotreat-fridays-macro-ish-nutella">http://thedaintypig.com/blog/2014/1/31/macrotreat-fridays-macro-ish-nutella</a><br />
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Homemade Nutella</div>
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<ul id="yui_3_17_2_1_1418625771338_704">
<li>1 3/4 cups whole hazelnuts</li>
<li>1/3 cup cocoa powder </li>
<li>3 - 4 pinches of sea salt</li>
<li>2 Tbsp sunflower or safflower oil of choice </li>
<li>5 Tbsp pure maple syrup</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>2/3 cup almond milk</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ol id="yui_3_17_2_1_1418625771338_711">
<li>Set the oven to 400F.</li>
<li>Place hazelnuts on a parchment lined cookie sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown. Shake the pan after about 4 minutes or so, to rotate them. Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven. Let the hazelnuts cool for about 5 minutes.</li>
<li>Place the hazelnuts inside a kitchen towel, making a pouch, and then rub the hazelnuts inside the towel to take off the skins. </li>
<li>Place the nuts into a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the oil, maple syrup and vanilla. Blend slowly, starting on a low setting then moving higher.</li>
<li>Add cocoa powder and salt. Blend again for a few minutes. </li>
<li>Add the almond milk slowly, staring with 1/3 cup. Blend. Add more if you desire. </li>
</ol>
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Sandwiches</div>
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<li><div>
1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced into rounds</div>
</li>
<li><div>
4 pieces of whole wheat bread</div>
</li>
<li><div>
2 Tbsps sunflower oil</div>
</li>
<li><div>
3 inch dreidel cookie cutter</div>
</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li>Cut dreidel shapes out of the bread. If you are careful, you can probably get 2 dreidels per piece of bread.</li>
<li>Spread each dreidel bread with Nutella.</li>
<li>Place banana slices on top of Nutella on one piece of dreidel bread. Then top with other piece of dreidel bread with the Nutella side down - on top of the bananas.</li>
<li>Heat sunflower oil is a skillet on medium heat and place dreidel sandwiches into the pan. lightly press sandwiches down and flip once they are golden brown and a bit crispy - just like a grilled cheese sandwich. Serve hot.</li>
</ol>
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<strong>Mini Star of David Fruit Skewers with Vanilla Cashew Cream</strong></div>
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Cashew Cream</div>
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<ul>
<li>1 cup raw cashews, rinsed and then soaked overnight</li>
<li>1/4 cup maple syrup</li>
<li>1/3 cup coconut oil</li>
<li>1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>pinch of sea salt</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ol>
<li>Discard soaking water from cashews and place cashews in a high speed blender or food processor. Add enough water to almost cover the cashews. Blend until creamy.</li>
<li>Add remaining ingredients and blend until full incorporated and creamy. Spoon into a serving bowl.</li>
</ol>
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Fruit Skewers</div>
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<li><div>
fresh fruit (such as apples, pears, grapes, berries)</div>
</li>
<li><div>
1/2 lemon</div>
</li>
<li><div>
6 inch wooden skewers</div>
</li>
<li><div>
mini Star of David cookie cutter</div>
</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li>Wash and cut fruit into bite sized pieces and use mini Star of David cookie cutter to cut shapes into apples and pears. Squeeze the juice from 1/2 a lemon onto apples and pears so it does not brown.</li>
<li>Skewer fruit onto wooden skewers and place onto a serving platter. Serve with cashew cream.</li>
</ol>
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Here are a couple of other great ideas to make this Chanukah delicious! I hope you enjoy!!!</div>
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-67052631819367877142014-12-09T11:55:00.002-07:002014-12-09T11:55:41.880-07:00Homemade Facial Oil for All Skin Types<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am newly excited about making my own all-natural body care products. Some of the benefits of making my own products are that they are simple and easy to make, I select the ingredients that I know are good for my well-being, and they are much less expensive than natural products in the store or mail order products. Also, they last so much longer!<br />
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In the past, I have tested many facial moisturizers. After trying products for years, I finally found a great company that sources all organic ingredients, makes their products in small batches and is excellent quality. I would spend about $40 for a 2 ounce bottle of moisturizer, plus pay for shipping. I would usually go through about 2 bottles per year. That ends up costing about $90 for facial moisturizer for the year. Last year, I made my own facial oil for about $14. The oil I made was so potent, it literally lasted me an entire year! Here is the one I made last year:<br />
<a href="http://elliesecocollective.blogspot.com/2013/12/homemade-facial-moisturizer-for-oily.html">http://elliesecocollective.blogspot.com/2013/12/homemade-facial-moisturizer-for-oily.html</a><br />
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Now that I have run out of oil, I decided to try a new recipe. I just ordered some new, very potent therapeutic grade essential oils that I want to test out and I want to use effective ingredients, but don't want to spend a lot of money. <br />
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Here is information on the ingredients I decided to use this time:<br />
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<strong>Apricot Kernel Oil</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Affordable</li>
<li>Non-greasy</li>
<li>Anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to soothe minor skin conditions</li>
<li>High in Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA), which enables your skin to maintain its moisture balance. Also helps tone and firm up your skin</li>
<li>Vitamin A and Vitamin E, which slow down the signs of ageing</li>
<li>Light, gentle, mild and non-irritating, it can also be used for children and babies</li>
<li>Great for all skin types, especially prematurely aged, sensitive, inflamed or dry skin</li>
<li>Shelf life of about 1 year, and 2 years if it is refrigerated</li>
</ul>
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<div>
<strong>Rosehip Seed Oil</strong></div>
<ul>
<li>Anti-inflammatory</li>
<li>Full of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids which can correct dark spots and hydrate dry, itchy skin, while reducing scars and fine lines</li>
<li>Vitamin C and lycopene, which works to repair the skin's surface, restoring elasticity and protecting against sun and pollution stressors that can lead to wrinkles</li>
<li>Promotes wound healing by stimulating tissue regeneration</li>
</ul>
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<div>
<strong>Lavender Essential Oil</strong></div>
<ul>
<li>Anti-inflammatory and stimulating for the circulatory system</li>
<li>Anti-fungal and antiseptic. Reduces scarring and speeds healing</li>
<li>Beneficial for treating acne, inhibits bacteria that causes the initial infection</li>
<li>Calming and stress relieving properties</li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Frankincense Essential Oil</strong></div>
<ul>
<li>Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic</li>
<li>Astringent quality that reduces the appearance of wrinkles</li>
<li>Helps scars and after marks of boils, acne and pox on the skin fade at a much faster rate. </li>
<li>Helps eliminate sun spots and generally tones and tightens skin </li>
<li>Induces a feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction and spirituality. It lowers anxiety, anger and stress.</li>
</ul>
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<strong></strong> </div>
<div>
<strong></strong> </div>
Here is a recipe for an all natural facial oil I just made for myself. The essential oils I am using are very potent, so I am not using a lot.<br />
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You need:<br />
<ul>
<li>2 ounce Dark glass bottle with a pump or a dropper</li>
<li>1 3/4 ounce Apricot kernel oil</li>
<li>1/4 ounce Rosehip seed oil</li>
<li>4 drops Lavender essential oil</li>
<li>3 drops Frankincense essential oil</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ol>
<li>Pour the apricot kernel oil into a clean dark glass bottle about 3/4 of the way full.</li>
<li>Pour the rosehip seed oil into the bottle, until almost full.</li>
<li>Add the lavender and frankincense oil.</li>
<li>Close the bottle and shake. Enjoy!</li>
</ol>
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-46775334607156370992014-12-08T08:00:00.000-07:002014-12-09T12:03:46.024-07:00Homemade All Natural Deodorant...That Really Works!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi Friends,<br />
<br />
Life can get busy for many people, and as you can see from my last blog post - which was exactly a year ago, my life is no exception.<br />
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As I left off from my last post in 2013, I am once again, getting into essential oils and how seriously powerful they can be in assisting with natural health and well being.<br />
<br />
After doing some research, I have decided to start experimenting with creating my own all natural homemade deodorant. This summer I spent 4 months abroad and I ran out of my own natural herbal deodorant. I tried buying something new from the local health food store, and it turned out that it made my tiny bit of body odor even worse! <br />
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Now that I am back in America and am making plans to again, be out of the country, I don't want to be dependent on bringing enough deodorant with me. It's time to be simple and make my own. I realized in doing this, that the skin under my arms is very sensitive. Lymph nodes, which are part of the lymphatic system, are located in your armpits. They are part of your immune system and help your body fight off infections and disease. For me, it makes sense to only put pure, all natural deodorant in such a sensitive place, especially when what you put on your skin gets absorbed into the bloodstream.<br />
<br />
Through experimenting, I found out that making my own deodorant is really easy!<br />
<br />
Right now I am using a mix of organic coconut oil with geranium essential oil mixed in. I use a tiny bit under each arm and I smell like fresh geraniums all day.<br />
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I made the following recipe from WellnessMama.com and it also smells great, but my shea butter and coconut oil separated, so I might have to mix it while it cools. But otherwise, it also works well for me.<br />
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One of the recipes I made is from this blog here:<br />
<a href="http://wellnessmama.com/1523/natural-deodorant/">http://wellnessmama.com/1523/natural-deodorant/</a><br />
<br />
Here is another very simple recipe for homemade deodorant, with great photos and a very simple but beautiful way to store natural homemade cosmetics.<br />
<a href="http://notrashproject.com/tag/homemade-deodorant/">http://notrashproject.com/tag/homemade-deodorant/</a><br />
<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-5719306498870465002013-12-01T09:33:00.000-07:002013-12-01T09:33:00.268-07:00Homemade Facial Moisturizer for Oily Skin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wP22lxpZBc/Un-1W-zeqAI/AAAAAAAAA90/Yh9E3LdWxNk/s1600/aromatherapy-essential-oils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8wP22lxpZBc/Un-1W-zeqAI/AAAAAAAAA90/Yh9E3LdWxNk/s400/aromatherapy-essential-oils.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have this awesome book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Aromatherapy-Companion-Medicinal-Well-Being/dp/1580171508">The Aromatherapy Companion</a>, which is all about the medicinal uses for using essential oils. This book has lots of information about using essential oils safely and effectively and gives many great recipes for natural skin and body care.<br />
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I found a really easy and effective recipe for facial moisturizer for oily skin. I only like to use all natural skin care products and usually have to special order my skincare online. With the cost of the actual product and shipping, the price can really add up! So I decided to try making my own and see how I like it.<br />
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After using it for a few days, I notice that my skin is soft, smooth and supple. I like it even better than my expensive moisturizer that I special order!! I am loving how I am saving money and doing something good for my body. Here is the really easy recipe.<br />
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Facial Moisturizer for Oily Skin<br />
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<ul>
<li>10 drops niaouli essential oil</li>
<li>5 drops cypress essential oil</li>
<li>30 ml (1 ounce) hazelnut oil</li>
</ul>
<div>
Combine all ingredients in a small dark glass bottle; shake to mix. To use: After cleansing and toning, place a few drops in the palms of your hands and massage or press lightly over your entire face.</div>
<div>
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I literally only need 2 drops of this oil and use it on my face and neck.</div>
Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-25164082616295385812013-11-12T09:53:00.000-07:002013-11-12T09:53:00.684-07:00Thanksgivukkah 2013!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you've all heard, Thanksgiving coincides with the first day of Hanukkah this year. Very exciting news for the Jews who celebrate both!<br />
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Check out my Pinterest board for some great ideas for menu planning, recipes, festive decor and more.<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/ekumayama/thanksgivukkah-ideas-2013/">Thanksgivukkah 2013 Ideas</a><br />
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We are going all out this year at our Thanksgivukkah. Check out our final menu.<br />
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Soupe au Pistou<br />
Free Range Turkey<br />
Pan Fried Flounder with Homemade Tartar Sauce<br />
Herbed Stuffing<br />
Quinoa Stuffed Delicata Squash<br />
Garlic and Chive Mashed Potatoes with Mushroom Gravy<br />
Mini Potato Latkes with Cranberry Apple Sauce<br />
Whipped Yams<br />
Green Bean Casserole<br />
Garlic Collard Greens<br />
Green Salad<br />
Cranberry Pear Sauce<br />
<br />
Pumpkin Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream<br />
Sweet Potato Pie<br />
Chocolate Molasses Spice Cookies<br />
Sufganiyot<br />
Homemade Sparkling Apple Cider<br />
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-23915234327729081462013-11-10T09:20:00.000-07:002013-11-10T09:20:14.448-07:00Upcycle Old Stuff and Make it Cool Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've all heard of recycling, which is good for the environment, but how about upcycling?<br />
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Upcycling is when you take something old, ugly and/or damaged and make it into something new, interesting, cool, beautiful and functional. It's basically giving something old a makeover so that it has more value than it did before. Great concept, right?<br />
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I love decorating my home and collecting interesting and beautiful pieces to make my living space more comfortable. Buying furniture and good quality decor can be fun, but it can also be very costly. I have been building my living room, one piece at a time, with used and vintage furniture that has good structure, but needs a bit of help.<br />
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My first project for home decor is upcycling a console table. After some research, I decided to refurbish my table and give it a distressed look. I chose this style because I like the rustic chic look. It reminds me of the Autumn I spent living in the mountains of rural Vermont, doing organic gardening and getting to cook and eat freshly grown food each day. I also love having one of a kind, unique pieces of furniture and this project will turn my table into just that!<br />
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I got my wooden console table from Craigslist for $20. It is originally from Bombay Company, which I think is good quality and probably retailed for $150-200. <a href="http://www.bombaycompany.com/furniture-store/hall-console-tables">http://www.bombaycompany.com/furniture-store/hall-console-tables</a><br />
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Here is my table's before picture.<br />
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I wanted a cool piece of artwork to go with the table, so I got a photo that I took from gathering flowers in the organic Vermont garden and turned it into a vibrant piece of art by getting an inexpensive "photo-to-canvas" Groupon. Once my picture was turned into a photo on canvas, I hung it up and tried to find a pretty color of green paint to match some of the green in my photo. Home Depot had a great low-VOC paint and I found my color!<br />
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I gathered all of my supplies from Home Depot. I think this was seriously my first time going in there by myself, and I obviously had no idea what I was doing, but I found someone to help me.<br />
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I bought:<br />
a few sheets of 60 coarse grit sandpaper<br />
tack cloth<br />
2 medium sized paint brushes<br />
a 30 oz. container of light green paint<br />
polyacrylic protective finish<br />
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Once I gathered my supplies, I got to work. I took guidance primarily from<br />
<a href="http://upcycledtreasures.com/2013/06/beach-inspired-console-table/">http://upcycledtreasures.com/2013/06/beach-inspired-console-table/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.hgtv.com/handmade/how-to-distress-furniture/index.html">http://www.hgtv.com/handmade/how-to-distress-furniture/index.html</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEYRjltR0jM">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEYRjltR0jM</a><br />
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First I detached the drawer handles and took out the drawers. I then sanded the entire piece of furniture by hand. Make sure you have enough sandpaper if you have a large piece. Here is the table top after sanding:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeXDklxN1_w/UnMPN5etQPI/AAAAAAAAA8I/j9wDAHuvFxA/s1600/20131031_211915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeXDklxN1_w/UnMPN5etQPI/AAAAAAAAA8I/j9wDAHuvFxA/s400/20131031_211915.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Once I sanded everything, I painted the whole table and drawer fronts with one coat of paint. I then let it dry and did a second coat of paint.<br />
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Once the second coat of paint dried, I used sandpaper and sanded away paint on the corners of the table and any edges, where paint might normally come off of an old table. You want the piece to look worn out and old. You can sand as little or as much as you like. I tried to make mine look authentic.<br />
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After sanding, I painted the table with one coat of polyacrylic protective finish and let it dry.<br />
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And here is the finished piece! Since it's Autumn, I decorated my table with some pinecones and mini tiger pumpkins. I also have a key dish on the table and a basket under the table to hold my rain boots and umbrellas.<br />
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-77537601534413218892013-09-30T07:08:00.000-06:002013-09-30T07:08:00.349-06:00Have A GREAT Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-tvWGZp-9I/Uklyj7DYk-I/AAAAAAAAA5o/7BwXhoz4Urk/s1600/great_life_diet.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-tvWGZp-9I/Uklyj7DYk-I/AAAAAAAAA5o/7BwXhoz4Urk/s1600/great_life_diet.gif" /></a></div>
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My reading of this book was long overdue and I am happy to say, I recently finished it and gained a renewed sense of inspiration and enjoyment for my personal macrobiotic practice. <br />
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Practicing macrobiotics has the potential to be a big challenge. I often hear people say, "I don't have time to do all that cooking." I used to feel that way at times. But it seems, once I get things going, make a plan and get into a rhythm, my practice becomes something interesting, inspiring, fun and spiritual. It is more than just food, it is an attitude, a way of living.<br />
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The Great Life Diet is written in a short and simple way. It's only 124 pages and includes a few recipes in the back as well as dietary guidelines for healing. This book is great for anyone who wants to improve their health, improve their macrobiotic practice or just refresh their knowledge. It inspired me to get back to the basics and really listen to my body as well as give it what it needs. Macrobiotics can be a gentle, mindful and peaceful way of eating and living that will help you cultivate more gentleness and peace with yourself and others. All you have to do is listen, sit, chew, have gratitude and recognize how beautiful this life is.<br />
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Gratitude is the way to be happy.<br />
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Check out this book. You will most likely learn something that will improve your life if you put it into practice. Happy reading!<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Great-Life-Diet-Practical-Fulfillment/dp/1933648260/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1380546001&sr=1-2&keywords=the+great+life+cookbook">http://www.amazon.com/Great-Life-Diet-Practical-Fulfillment/dp/1933648260/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1380546001&sr=1-2&keywords=the+great+life+cookbook</a><br />
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-48395487550045160622013-06-05T08:21:00.000-06:002013-06-05T08:21:09.447-06:00Soap = Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOAiKRi5xSA/Ua9FdXXOtNI/AAAAAAAAA4s/UGOHKoiEezY/s1600/soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOAiKRi5xSA/Ua9FdXXOtNI/AAAAAAAAA4s/UGOHKoiEezY/s400/soap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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At this past Green Festival in NYC I came across a really cool little soap company. As you probably know, I am obsessed with natural body care products and love to try out new soaps see new products that are on the market. This company, SoapBox Soaps, is a company that not only produces a great quality product, they also distribute soap to children in need. They basically adopted the Tom's Shoes <a href="http://www.toms.com/our-movement/l">One for One</a> idea, so that for every bar of soap you purchase, SoapBox Soaps donates a bar to a child in need, as well as to local struggling families, homeless shelters, women's shelters and nursing homes. What a cool way to make our purchases - knowing that when we buy something, we are also providing for another person!<br />
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I thought this was a great idea, and even better, I didn't have to compromise my values to support this worthy cause. SoapBox Soaps contain all natural ingredients, gluten-free oatmeal, organic shea butter and sea salt. All of their soaps are cruelty-free, made in America, packaged with 100% recycled fibers and 35% post consumer waste and vegan. LOVE IT!!!<br />
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I think I bought 6 bars and am working my way through each delicious smelling flavor.<br />
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<a href="https://www.soapboxsoaps.com/">https://www.soapboxsoaps.com/</a>Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-75539002827273200832013-05-08T09:10:00.002-06:002013-05-08T09:10:30.733-06:00Comfortable Organic Cotton Underware<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Comfort is key when it comes to the undergarments we wear. After a long day of running around shopping and cooking for clients, taking care of kids or cleaning up and doing laundry, I want to be comfortable.<br />
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One really comfortable garment made by Blue Canoe is the Cami Bra. This bra is light and breathable, made out of 87% organic cotton and 13% spandex. It has an elastic band at the bottom and straps that don't slip, so you never need to worry about readjusting or falling straps as you move. These bras are also not itchy and perfect for hot weather!<br />
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If you are looking for a new bra and value comfort, the environment and your health, I highly recommend the Cami Bra. Here is a link and picture:<br />
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<a href="https://www.bluecanoe.com/e-store/prod_details.asp?pcid=3101632436589&pcatid=3101629411057&pid=3111818357898&product_name=Cami_Bra_">Blue Canoe Cami Bra</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D5fe6OySWuE/UYpmtPRj5EI/AAAAAAAAA34/pKodwFx3Xe0/s1600/Blue+Canoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D5fe6OySWuE/UYpmtPRj5EI/AAAAAAAAA34/pKodwFx3Xe0/s320/Blue+Canoe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Blue Canoe is a small company that uses organic cotton and bamboo
fabrics to create excellent quality undergarments and active wear for
women. All of their garments are made in San Fransisco and the company
practices fair and local trade.<br />
Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-72606625223361208312013-03-11T14:33:00.002-06:002013-03-16T20:02:07.790-06:00Kosher for Passover: Roasted Butternut Squash & Quinoa Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been doing some research and have tried to find some delicious looking healthy, vegan and kosher for Passover recipes. What a challenge! Not just vegan, not just kosher for Passover, but also healthy and delicio<span style="font-family: inherit;">us... I also wanted to come up with easy recipes that anyone can make that would have easily access</span>ible ingredients. You can get everything at your local kosher grocery store.<br />
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Here is one that I came up with recently. I will definitely be making it this year!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Roasted Butternut Squash & Quinoa Salad</span><br />
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<ul id="yui_3_7_2_29_1363007756083_96" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" id="yui_3_7_2_29_1363007756083_101" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_29_1363007756083_98" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 large butternut squash</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 Tbsp olive oil</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1/2 tsp sea salt</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1/2 tsp garlic powder</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">2 cups quinoa</span></span></li>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">fresh parsley, finely chopped</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">sliced toasted almonds</span></span></li>
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<ol style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Peel the butternut squash and slice into 1 inch cubes.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Place the squash on a lined baking sheet and toss with oil, salt and garlic powder.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Roast the squash in the oven for 40 minutes or until very soft. Roasting until very soft will make it creamy, buttery and sweeter.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa and then place it into a large pot with 3 ⅓ cup water.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Bring the pot to a boil, add a pinch of salt and then simmer for 20 minutes with the lid on.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">After 20 minutes, set the quinoa aside to cool.</span></span></li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Once the squash is roasted, toss it with the quinoa and parsley in a large bowl. Garnish it with almonds just before serving.</span></span></li>
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-41450806131744683212013-01-08T14:59:00.001-07:002013-01-08T18:51:45.159-07:00Making Healthy Food FUN for Kids (and Adults)! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6spMG-oLbtc/UOyQLfSSdCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/0bliicgEgdE/s1600/VEGGIES.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6spMG-oLbtc/UOyQLfSSdCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/0bliicgEgdE/s400/VEGGIES.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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If you have kids, then you probably know how challenging it can be to get them to eat healthy foods. Kids often have access to sugary sodas, candy, chips and other processed snacks during their school day. This can be a real hindrance if you are wanting your kids to grow up healthy, strong and developing good habits for when they become older.<br />
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I have been recently working with a family and their two children who are 6 and 8 years old. These kids LOVE candy. And ice cream. And sugary drinks. All they care about is treats when they get home. Getting these kids to eat a piece of fruit daily is like a miracle! Yesterday I made them their usual dinner - something frozen that you pop into the oven for a few minutes. I also made them a whole bunch of delicious raw fruit and vegetables, cut into bite sized pieces. I arranged the fruit and veggies in a fun way on a platter in the center of the table, and I let each child pick what they wanted. And you know what? They actually ate it! Seriously. I have never seen these kids eat so much healthy food at dinner.<br />
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Here are some easy tips for getting YOUR kids to eat healthier:<br />
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SHAPE<br />
One big thing that makes healthy food more appealing is the way it is cut. If you give a kid a giant carrot out of the bag, they probably won't eat it. But if you cut up a bunch of fruits and veggies in fun shapes and bite sized pieces arranged nicely on a plate, ready and waiting for them, they are WAY more likely to eat it. Having fun with this doesn't have to be complicated. Use a small cookie cutter to make hearts, stars and other cute shapes.<br />
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You can even do a fun project with your kids to cut fruits, veggies, bread or tortillas into cool shapes with small and medium sized cookie cutters. You can make easy sandwiches with the bread and quesadillas or wraps with the tortillas. Adults will even love it. I know that when I make a fun soup with star shaped carrots or heart shaped radishes, it makes eating more enjoyable.<br />
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COLOR<br />
When thinking in terms of color, here is an easy way to make things more exciting. Rainbows! Kids love rainbows. Rainbows make people feel happy. Try arranging your foods in rainbow order. Talk about the different colors on the plate with your kids. Talk about flavors and textures and take the time to help them experience why eating well is important. Talk about antioxidants. Kids really listen and will appreciate the time you spend with them in this way.<br />
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TASTE<br />
Eating foods that taste good is important to kids and adults! If you try to give people things they don't like, they will just rebel. So start with the things they do like. I found out the other day that the kids I work with like oatmeal. They only like to eat it with sugar on top. So, I let them have sugar on their oatmeal because at least it is getting them to eat oatmeal! Baby steps.<br />
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TOGETHER<br />
When your kids see you eating something healthy, they will want to copy you. When the kids I work with see me eating blueberries or salad, sometimes they will come over and ask if they can taste it. They often times like it. When you take care of your self by eating well, your kids will see it and also want to.<br />
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Here are some questions to ask yourself when preparing snacks and dinner for your kids:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Are the vegetables or fruits cut in an interesting or artful way?</li>
<li>Did you use a variety of ingredients, flavors, and colors?</li>
<li>Are the colors of the dish you prepared vibrant and lively?</li>
<li>Is the food arranged in a fun way on the plate?</li>
<li>Are you using a colorful plate that makes eating more exciting?</li>
</ul>
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Wishing you success in raising a healthy and happy family, and future generations.</div>
<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-74781801276729825382012-11-23T05:00:00.000-07:002013-03-16T20:02:07.792-06:00Leftover Cranberries? Cranberry Walnut Muffins!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7VsMqi2Z6M/UGvKaM2N9II/AAAAAAAAAy0/8jcu4LMUo3s/s1600/3033305250_42d745d78a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7VsMqi2Z6M/UGvKaM2N9II/AAAAAAAAAy0/8jcu4LMUo3s/s1600/3033305250_42d745d78a.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you are like me and buy fresh cranberries for Thanksgiving, then you probably have some leftovers sitting in your refrigerator as we speak. Well, fear no more, I have a tasty solution for you to use up those extra little guys. This recipe is easy and delicious, and is an absolutely beautiful addition to an Autumn breakfast or as a snack. They can also be wrapped individually and given as little edible party favors at your next event.<br />
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<u>Cranberry Walnut Muffins</u><br />
These muffins come out slightly sweet, with a bit of tang from the cranberries. Delish!<br />
<ul>
<li>1/4 cup sunflower oil</li>
<li>1/4 cup maple syrup</li>
<li>1 cup almond milk</li>
<li>1 tsp apple cider vinegar</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/4 cup coconut sugar</li>
<li>1 cup whole wheat pastry flour</li>
<li>3/4 cup unbleached white flour</li>
<li>1 tsp baking soda</li>
<li>1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 tsp sea salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup chopped walnuts</li>
<li>1/4 cup chopped walnuts </li>
<li>3/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries</li>
</ul>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Oil a muffin tin and set aside. Whisk the oil, syrup, almond milk, vinegar and vanilla in a bowl. In a separate larger bowl, mix the coconut sugar, flours, baking soda and powder, cinnamon and salt. with a rubber spatula, mix the wet ingredients into the dry. Do not over mix the batter. Fold in the 1/2 cup walnuts and cranberries. Using a medium sized ice cream scoop, put one scoop of batter into section of the muffin tin. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup walnuts and place into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes and rotate the pan half way for even baking. Bake 5 minutes more and until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffin comes out clean. Let cool for 15 minutes and remove muffins from the tin.<br />
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-63448613020004139542012-10-30T06:00:00.000-06:002013-03-16T19:57:37.405-06:00Thanksgiving Inspirations <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iM_w561TOwo/UGvFb4_jMiI/AAAAAAAAAx8/LgWNxnt5cPY/s1600/table+bhg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iM_w561TOwo/UGvFb4_jMiI/AAAAAAAAAx8/LgWNxnt5cPY/s400/table+bhg.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Every year my whole family looks forward to Thanksgiving - the one holiday where we get together to eat, relax and have fun! This year will be the best one yet - since we will be coming from all over the US to gather together for great food AND great company. This year I am doing it vegan-style for my family and am excited to share colorful and flavorful, healthy dishes that will leave everyone feeling satiated, happy and healthy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">In anticipation of this Thanksgiving, I have already created my menu for this year's awesomeness:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></b></span></span></span><br />
<ol style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Steamed Southern Style Cornbread Muffins</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pecan Crusted Seitan Cutlets</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Seitan Herb Stuffing</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Herbed Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Mushroom Gravy</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whipped Maple Sweet Potatoes</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creamy Root Vegetable Gratin</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Garlicky Green Beans</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cranberry Citrus Sauce</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fresh Green Salad</span></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Warm Pumpkin Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream</span></b></b></span></li>
<li style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><b><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Old Fashioned Apple Crisp</span></b></b></span></li>
</ol>
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<ol style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</span></span></ol>
<span style="font-size: small;">I hope this menu of scrumptious goodies will inspire you to make some healthy, vegan dishes to add to your holiday table. Happy festivities!</span><br />
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-70878712954432941152012-10-16T06:30:00.000-06:002012-10-16T06:30:01.467-06:00Kosherfest Coming This November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmWCf1C7SSY/UGw8P6vm48I/AAAAAAAAA0U/8JWOzI6BCo4/s1600/kosherfest_2011.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmWCf1C7SSY/UGw8P6vm48I/AAAAAAAAA0U/8JWOzI6BCo4/s1600/kosherfest_2011.gif" /></a></div>
Attention all you kosher business owners... Get ready to connect with the international world of kosher, at Kosherfest!<br />
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Kosherfest is a 2 day kosher food event meant for people who work in the kosher food industry to check out new kosher products as well as learn more about the upcoming trends and find out about the latest and greatest developments in the kosher food world.<br />
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Some of the events I am particularly interested in checking out in the show schedule are a discussion on "Meeting the Special Needs of the Kosher Consumer."<i></i> This events will address the diverse needs of kosher clients, in terms of diet
and palate, since an increasing number of kosher consumers are seeking out
specialty foods as gluten-free, organic, and low-fat.<br />
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I am excited to check out"The Authors Corner," where there will be book signings and opportunities to meet cookbook authors such as:<br />
<ul>
<li>Jamie Geller: <i>Quick & Kosher: Recipes from the Bride Who Knew Nothing</i>, <i>Quick & Kosher: Meals in Minutes</i>, <i>Joy of Kosher</i> Magazine</li>
<li>Levana Kirschenbaum: <i>Levana's Table</i>, <i>The Whole Foods Kosher Kitchen</i> </li>
<li>Gil Marks: <i>Olive Trees and Honey</i>, <i>Encyclopedia of Jewish Food</i> </li>
<li>Jeff Nathan: <i>Jeff Nathan's Family Suppers</i>, Adventures in Jewish Cooking</li>
<li>Leah Schapira: <i>Fresh & Easy Kosher Cooking: Ordinary Ingredients - Extraordinary Meals</i></li>
<li><i> </i>Paula Shoyer: <i>The Kosher Baker</i></li>
</ul>
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There will also be a Kosher Culinary Competition, "Iron Chef" style. Very exciting!<br />
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Kosherfest is November 13-14, 2012 at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ.<br />
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For more info, check their website: <a href="http://www.kosherfest.com/">http://www.kosherfest.com/</a><br />
<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-60102670384276832842012-10-03T05:30:00.000-06:002013-03-16T19:59:17.636-06:00Natural Autumn Decor Warms Up Your Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-db5a6AxQ0kk/UGu3CZ7sXfI/AAAAAAAAAwc/xm3xgSiY12c/s1600/autumn-gourds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-db5a6AxQ0kk/UGu3CZ7sXfI/AAAAAAAAAwc/xm3xgSiY12c/s400/autumn-gourds.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love Autumn in the northeast. The rich, vibrant, golden colors surrounding us when we are outdoors inspire us to get outside more, appreciate nature and breathe in fresh, crisp air. I find that the deep burgundies, burnt oranges, rich chocolate browns and dark forest greens of the season actually help to comfort and “warm us up” as the weather begins to turn cold and we find the need to break out our knitted sweaters and scarves.<br />
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One of my favorite things to do, besides cook and bake like crazy during this season, is decorate my home. I am pretty much OBSESSED when it comes to gourds and home decorating during this time of the year. I enjoy bringing a little bit of nature’s bounty into my home and appreciating all of the rich colors, textures and scents of the season.<br />
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When I think of Autumn I think of the smell of Old Fashioned Cinnamon Apple Crisp filling my home and pumpkin everything - pies, breads, muffins, puddings. I also love making hearty soups, stews and roasted vegetables. Pretty much anything warming, creamy and comforting helps me feel nice and toasty from the inside out in this cold weather.<br />
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I love to start gathering cute little gourds, different sized edible pumpkins and squashes, pine cones and pressed leaves to arrange as centerpieces for my festive holiday tables. These inexpensive natural decorations can really help to enliven a living space and bring natural beauty into your home.<br />
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I recently had a friend over for lunch and made a beautiful arrangement using many of these items. What a difference it made! The table was all dressed up and took our meal from mediocre to fabulous!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ud1yjTlH9IM/UGu5U_vX_eI/AAAAAAAAAwk/F_GdoLT9iqE/s1600/tiger+pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ud1yjTlH9IM/UGu5U_vX_eI/AAAAAAAAAwk/F_GdoLT9iqE/s400/tiger+pumpkin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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To make your own Autumnal inspired decorations, start with some simple gourds and pumpkins. I recently found some beautiful Tiger pumpkins at my local Trader Joe's. How stunning! Mix these with an assortment of mini pumpkins or even some white pumpkins like these:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDpsN2pOjo4/UGu5tP1pBVI/AAAAAAAAAws/N_7r3ewc_-A/s1600/white-pumpkins.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDpsN2pOjo4/UGu5tP1pBVI/AAAAAAAAAws/N_7r3ewc_-A/s400/white-pumpkins.jpeg" width="288" /></a></div>
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White pumpkins like these are so stunning and simple, they even look good like this, in a simple arrangement on a plate or bowl.<br />
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You could also get more creative and arrange something more elaborate like this:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rApCW33pwaQ/UGu6so_WAzI/AAAAAAAAAw0/_Qd3uHT1wxc/s1600/248683210644415370_aedN2PUU_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rApCW33pwaQ/UGu6so_WAzI/AAAAAAAAAw0/_Qd3uHT1wxc/s400/248683210644415370_aedN2PUU_c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Here are some other fantastic arrangements that will brighten up your Autumn table for any holiday, family gathering or upcoming Thanksgiving meal:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYDUMi1Whj0/UGu7J4CqdjI/AAAAAAAAAxE/tWmZj_h21sg/s1600/gourds+in+a+dough+bowl+country+living.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYDUMi1Whj0/UGu7J4CqdjI/AAAAAAAAAxE/tWmZj_h21sg/s400/gourds+in+a+dough+bowl+country+living.JPG" width="307" /></a></div>
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Here is a more elegant look for a table setting:<br />
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Check out this link for Martha Stewart's Fall Centerpieces to dress up your table and home: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274738/fall-centerpieces/@center/276949/everything-thanksgiving#/272413">Martha Stewart's Fall Centerpieces</a></div>
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Happy decorating! </div>
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Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-62740048835290661782012-08-21T17:30:00.000-06:002012-08-21T17:30:00.037-06:00Cooking With Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHDWka7niCo/UBi2h5UmI6I/AAAAAAAAAvk/SkeIuMXHvSM/s1600/s-k-album-comments-keti-pepene-grab-album-danger-boys-album-drinks-stuff-food-love-you-hearts-randomness-fun-lena-my-images-imajenes-food-drink_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHDWka7niCo/UBi2h5UmI6I/AAAAAAAAAvk/SkeIuMXHvSM/s400/s-k-album-comments-keti-pepene-grab-album-danger-boys-album-drinks-stuff-food-love-you-hearts-randomness-fun-lena-my-images-imajenes-food-drink_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Putting love into the food you prepare for yourself and others can make all the difference between a regular meal and something spectacular.<br />
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A meal prepared with love and care has the power to transform a person's mood, outlook on life and feelings about oneself and the world. A wonderfully prepared meal has the ability to relax, strengthen or help a person heal. A meal made with care can make the difference between creating more love, peace and joy in this world or creating disharmony, lethargy and dis-ease.<br />
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Isn't that powerful?<br />
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These thoughts are something that have been on my mind a lot. If someone is in a negative mood, saying hurtful, rude or negative things to others while they are cooking, how does it effect the food and the person who consumes it? Just think of the movie, <i>Like Water For Chocolate</i>. Remember that wedding cake scene?<br />
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When a person prays while they are cooking, speaks kind and gentle words, and feels love and joy to be cooking for others, how does that effect the food?<br />
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Our thoughts, feelings and actions are all energy. Energy we are putting into the food and energy we are putting out into the world.<br />
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That's pretty powerful.<br />
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We have the ability to create or destroy. We have the ability to lift people up or drag them down ~ all with our thoughts, words, actions and intentions.<br />
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Try an experiment. Make one dish. Give yourself enough time and space to put gentle and loving energy into the food you are making. Think of the people who will benefit from the food you are preparing so lovingly.<br />
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How do you want those people to feel after they have eaten your food?<br />
What kind of energy do you want your food to give to them?<br />
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Treat the food kindly the entire time you are cooking. Pray while you cook and infuse the food with holiness, love and healing energy. Talk to your food and tell it beautiful things.<br />
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At the end of cooking, serve the food on a beautiful plate. Taste it.<br />
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Awesome, right?Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-91930733620924892852012-08-14T16:29:00.000-06:002012-08-14T16:29:00.526-06:00Packing Your Lunch? Check Out the Bento Box Rules<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JxTJpcw5Tb0/UBW14SMd0OI/AAAAAAAAAus/Zh6WI6BmwK4/s1600/bento.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JxTJpcw5Tb0/UBW14SMd0OI/AAAAAAAAAus/Zh6WI6BmwK4/s320/bento.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
<br />
Get ready to be <b>a lot more excited</b> about packing your lunch for work or school!! American lunches often consist of the usual travel-friendly foods such as sandwiches, chips, crackers, cookies, apples, baby carrots, juice boxes and the like. Those foods can be nice, but sometimes you just need to mix things up and have something deliciously awesome to look forward to all morning.<br />
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One of my favorite things about Japanese culture is the bento box. Not only is a bento box filled with home made fresh vegetables, rice and protein - very healthy - but it is also most often beautifully presented and packed, as well as totally delicious!<br />
<br />
Check out this cute book I just stumbled upon, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Just-Bento-Cookbook-Everyday-Lunches/dp/1568363931/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1343600644&sr=1-1&keywords=just+bento+cookbook" style="background-color: white;">The Just Bento Cookbook: Everyday Lunches To Go</a>. This book has excellent and practical ideas for packing visually appealing and delicious lunches. It is sure to inspire you to try some new things and help you feel great about eating well and enjoying it.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LMzc8QV_qCM/UBW5QwvEDYI/AAAAAAAAAvI/zyCqvMka3zA/s1600/chicken+skewer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LMzc8QV_qCM/UBW5QwvEDYI/AAAAAAAAAvI/zyCqvMka3zA/s320/chicken+skewer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I need to buy this - even just for the pictures and inspiring ideas!<br />
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I also found the Just Bento Blog, (even better since it's free!) with <a href="http://justbento.com/handbook/bento-basics/makis-top-10-bento-rules">Maki's Top Ten Bento Rules</a> - a must read for getting ideas about lunches that travel well. Enjoy your new outlook on lunch and get ready to chow down with adorable Japanese style.<br />
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-81585879913013204762012-08-07T15:15:00.000-06:002012-08-07T15:15:00.921-06:00How to Store Fruits and Vegetables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1R4oelFxoo4/UBWlebq-FqI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/8HZrMIamsw8/s1600/fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1R4oelFxoo4/UBWlebq-FqI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/8HZrMIamsw8/s320/fruit.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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I just found this awesome article about 'How to Store Fruits and Vegetables to Keep Them From Rotting.' EXACTLY what I have been dealing with in my current job. Being responsible for feeding <span style="background-color: white;">fruit and vegetables on a daily basis to </span><span style="background-color: white;">over 700 campers and staff has been a pretty great learning experience. There are so many things I now need to consider that I never had to worry about when I only did private cooking.</span><br />
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Most recently, I have been ordering a large amount of fruits from our distributor so that we can prep snacks daily. We get cases of bananas, peaches, plums, oranges, grapes and pears - and they all need to be stored correctly, washed, and served, but only when they are just ripe. A day too early and no one will touch them, and a day too late and we will have brown and mushy over-ripe fruits.<br />
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What a challenge!<br />
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This blog posted lists of vegetables and fruits and exactly what to do with them. Worry no more - just consult the list.<br />
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Happy reading and fruit eating.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mythirtyspot.com/2011/09/how-to-store-fruits-and-vegetables-so.html">http://www.mythirtyspot.com/2011/09/how-to-store-fruits-and-vegetables-so.html</a>Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-3366775041121642882012-07-31T16:00:00.000-06:002012-07-31T22:36:34.528-06:00Cooking With the Hip Chick...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A_rTkVcoA4/UBV92_csoXI/AAAAAAAAAt0/FZk-NDhTrsI/s1600/23475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A_rTkVcoA4/UBV92_csoXI/AAAAAAAAAt0/FZk-NDhTrsI/s320/23475.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
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Many women I meet who are interested in learning more about healthy diet and lifestyle often tell me they feel overwhelmed with all of the information out there. One magazine says to eat this, one diet says to eat that - there are so many philosophies and ways of living that claim to the be "RIGHT" way.<br />
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To these women, I have recommended one book. One book to start them on a healing journey - to open their minds and give them a basic understanding about healthy food and lifestyle - and to do it all with humor, wit and intelligence. This book that I recommend is written BY an exceptional woman, FOR exceptional women. Once I got my hands on a copy, I really couldn't put it down. It is not only fascinating, but so well explained that it allows the readers to easily grasp the concepts and apply them to their own lives.<br />
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This book is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Hip-Chicks-Guide-Macrobiotics/dp/1583332057/ref=as_li_wdgt_ex?&linkCode=wey&tag=thithamat0c-20">The Hip Chick's Guide to Macrobiotics</a>. It is always my go-to book for women just starting out and wanting to learn the in's and out's of macrobiotics.<br />
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Get a copy - even if you already have a deep understanding of healing through natural diet and lifestyle and the energetics of food, this book is a valuable resource to add to your own collection of cookbooks. It features over 80 delectable recipes that are good for you AND taste good!<br />
<br />
Also, if you ever have the opportunity to learn from the Hip Chick herself, Jessica Porter, grab it! She has a wealth of knowledge about food, health and life and her classes are sure to be educational as well as entertaining.<br />
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For more information about Jessica Porter and <i>The Hip Chick's Guide to Macrobiotics</i>, check her website and blog:<br />
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<a href="http://www.hipchicksmacrobiotics.com/index.html">www.hipchicksmacrobiotics.com</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.hipchicksmacrobiotics.com/blog/">www.hipchicksmacrobiotics.com/blog/</a><br />
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-84849316830070610022012-07-23T04:30:00.000-06:002012-07-29T16:16:38.681-06:00Extra! Extra! Read All About Cooking for Summer.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3dSTL8snsg/UATYtUFSWVI/AAAAAAAAAtg/ZBy9RisIWH8/s1600/602512_407160362653440_1645514739_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3dSTL8snsg/UATYtUFSWVI/AAAAAAAAAtg/ZBy9RisIWH8/s400/602512_407160362653440_1645514739_n.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">For fun and fresh Summer cooking ideas, check out the latest issue of Bitayavon Magazine. This beautifully photographed magazine is all about delicious, kosher gourmet food. The pictures in this mag are so fantastic - be careful not to drool while flipping through its pages...</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The Summer issue features articles and tips for Summer picnics, healthy smoothies, sizzling summer desserts, and out-of-the-box grilling ideas. It also features an article and three recipes on scrumptious summer salads and health tips throughout the magazine, all written by yours truly! I am so glad to have my article featured in this magazine and get my message of <i>eating well and enjoying it</i> to a larger audience.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The recipes I featured are perfect for cooling down, relaxing and energizing your body during the hot summer months. I also introduce "exotic" ingredients like ume plum vinegar and dried daikon radish, as well as one of my favorite salad recipes, Southwestern Salsa & Black Bean Salad with "Sour Cream" Dressing. Oh yeah.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">To get your copy, check your local kosher supermarket, judaica store, some Shoprites or Barnes and Nobles. To order a copy online, go here: <a href="http://bitayavon.com/">http://bitayavon.com/</a></span><br />
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For more info and kosher, gourmet inspirations, find Bitayavon Magazine on Facebook, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bitayavonmagazine">https://www.facebook.com/bitayavonmagazine</a><br />
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Also, stay tuned for the upcoming Fall Issue of Bitayavon... I will be writing more healthy tidbits, plus tips on how to have an easy fast - perfect for the upcoming High Holiday of Yom Kippur, this September 26, 2012. Looking forward to sharing more info with you soon!<br />
<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-59918745339489576862012-07-17T08:30:00.000-06:002012-07-29T16:18:02.374-06:00Summer Treats: Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--e6OfH8EJ6o/T_w6UxCaPUI/AAAAAAAAAtI/grEO4Xykkp4/s1600/IMG_20120701_201847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--e6OfH8EJ6o/T_w6UxCaPUI/AAAAAAAAAtI/grEO4Xykkp4/s400/IMG_20120701_201847.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I recently took on the exciting job of Kitchen Coordinator for a summer camp. One of the things I love about this kind of work is that I get to do a lot of problem solving. For some reason, I find it thrilling and fun to work under time constraints and stress. Something about having to deal with difficultly staring me in the face, makes me rise to the occasion and somehow accomplish what I did not think was possible. I also love learning and figuring out how to be creative to accomplish the tasks at hand.</span><br />
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One of the most recent challenges that came up was bananas! Literally. We had a HUGE amount of leftover bananas and they were very, very ripe. One more day and they would have been a mushy mess. A few people mentioned that we should make banana bread/cake. Something with chocolate swirled into it and sprinkles baked into the batter. This SOUNDS fun, but in reality, I was not fond of the idea of making a large amount of bread using non-organic, conventional ingredients; white sugar, flour eggs, etc. And I also did not want to spend so much time with a hot oven in the summer. Those of you who know me know how I feel about baked flour products...<br />
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So we came up with another idea...<br />
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Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas on a Stick.<br />
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Now we're talkin'!!! What a great idea. So I had the staff peel and cut in half, like, a million bananas. By the end, they never wanted to see another banana again, but, we saved the bananas and took care of our snack prep for a day. We are feeding over 700 people each day in camp, so that's a whole lot of chocolate covered bananas.<br />
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Here is the recipe. Of course, you can make yours at home, for friends and family to enjoy. If you get organic bananas and vegan chocolate, you will be in pretty good shape! I like to use really ripe bananas, because they taste sweeter and creamier when frozen. You can dip the bananas (once covered in chocolate) in anything you like - crushed roasted peanuts, granola, shredded coconut or any other kind of fun topping you can think of.<br />
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Happy Summer!<br />
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<u>Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas on a Stick</u><br />
4 bananas<br />
2 bars vegan chocolate - I used this:<br />
<a href="http://chocolatebar.com/products.php?product=3oz.-All%252dNatural-Supreme-Dark-Chocolate">http://chocolatebar.com/products.php?product=3oz.-All%252dNatural-Supreme-Dark-Chocolate</a><br />
2 Tablespoons sunflower oil<br />
a pinch of salt<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">popsicle</span> sticks<br />
<ol>
<li>Peel the bananas and cut them in half.</li>
<li>Stick a popsicle stick into the cut side of each half and place the bananas onto a parchment lined cookie sheet. </li>
<li>Put the bananas into the freezer for 30 minutes.</li>
<li>Melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Mix in the sunflower oil and salt.</li>
<li>Take the bananas out of the freezer and dip them in the chocolate to cover them completely. If you want to make it easy to coat the banana, transfer the chocolate into a cup and then dip the banana into the chocolate for an even coating.</li>
<li>Sprinkle the chocolate covered banana in whatever topping you like.</li>
<li>Place the bananas back on the parchment lined cookie sheet and freeze them until the chocolate sets and the bananas are fully frozen, about 3 hours.</li>
</ol>
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<u><br /></u>Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-51803006780843221682012-07-10T08:18:00.002-06:002012-07-10T08:18:54.478-06:00Check Out This Flick: No Impact Man<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NnYSxvBYqZ4/T91VCC54olI/AAAAAAAAAs0/-ppAmaeie40/s1600/no-impact-man-movie-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NnYSxvBYqZ4/T91VCC54olI/AAAAAAAAAs0/-ppAmaeie40/s400/no-impact-man-movie-poster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Need some inspiration on going green and staying green?<br />
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We all know that making the choice to live lightly on our planet makes sense, but making a deeper commitment to environmental sustainability can be difficult when we lead busy lives. Sometimes we need a little push, to feel inspired and to remember why we do what we do. <br />
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This movie came out a while ago, but I think it's a great reminder for people who want to renew their commitment to living lives with respect to environmental sustainability.<br />
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The movie is about a man and his family embarking on a journey to living cleaner and greener lives. The film follows this family as they make changes to their lifestyle. Everything from buying only locally grown foods at their farmer's market to getting rid of electricity usage from lights by switching to using candles, to even washing their clothing in their bathtub! Some of this stuff is pretty far out there, but it is cool and inspiring to see how far people will go to live in line with their values.<br />
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The good thing is that you can watch this film and let it inspire you to make small changes, and to live a life that is more mindful of how all of our behavior, actions and spending habits truly do effect the people around us.<br />
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Check out this movie and let it change your life for the better.<br />
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<a href="http://noimpactproject.org/movie/">http://noimpactproject.org/movie/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://noimpactproject.org/">http://noimpactproject.org/</a><br />
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<a href="http://noimpactman.typepad.com/">http://noimpactman.typepad.com/</a>Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-28382840756719690842012-06-18T06:00:00.000-06:002012-07-29T16:16:05.431-06:00Pickles from Your Bubby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OKflY_-dkc/T44VuHkRk8I/AAAAAAAAApg/yUBGZ0bMCNY/s1600/bubbies-pickles-company-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OKflY_-dkc/T44VuHkRk8I/AAAAAAAAApg/yUBGZ0bMCNY/s400/bubbies-pickles-company-logo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love this graphic. I am sure a happy marriage needs a few more ingredients than at least one good cook, but it is a good start!<br />
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Even if your marriage does not have at least one good cook, or if you are single, you can still enjoy the health benefits and great taste of delicious sauerkraut. Bubbies brand of sauerkraut and other various pickles are fantastic.<br />
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The ingredients are wholesome and simple and the taste is crunchy, salty-sour and just plain good.<br />
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You can find them in the refrigerated section at your natural food store. It is important to either make your own pickles or to buy pickles from the refrigerated section of the store, as opposed to the canned variety or pickles in jars on the shelf.<br />
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Buying refrigerated pickles is great because the refrigeration ensures that the live bacteria that was created during the fermentation process is still alive and kickin'. This makes all the difference because it will help the flora in your intestinal tract flourish, which means your digestion will be stronger. When your digestion works well, you can absorb the nutrients from your food better and you feel energetic, not bloated and have regular bowel movements. Yup, I just said that - it's true!<br />
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Try eating a little bit of sauerkraut, pickle or fermented food each day and see how you feel! If it is too salty, rinse the pickle in cool water before eating.<br />
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Happy digestion!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bubbies.com/">http://www.bubbies.com/</a>Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-53598819836357678562012-06-12T04:32:00.000-06:002012-07-29T16:15:34.453-06:00Tighten and Smooth Your Skin with Earth & Sea Clay Mask<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x_DPZtofYC4/T8l3grRMW3I/AAAAAAAAAr8/b8AEEoGdOQI/s1600/1316095986015-887363241.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x_DPZtofYC4/T8l3grRMW3I/AAAAAAAAAr8/b8AEEoGdOQI/s200/1316095986015-887363241.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hands down - this is the <b>B E S T </b> all natural facial mask I have ever used in my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Seriously, once I started using this mask nothing even comes close in comparison. My skin feel smooth, looks healthier and is tighter after I use this mask, even just once! I have tested a lot of natural skin care products in my day, and this one outperforms them all. I seriously look 5 years younger after I use it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is the low-down on this amazing skin care product:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">This truly all-natural mask is made with bentonite clay, well known for its powerful abilities to draw out impurities, smooth, tighten, and tone. Combined with our other selected plants and herbs, this mask is also effective for diminishing the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles, soften, and soothe. Your skin will look more radiant, refined and refreshed. Contains enough for 20 masks.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Ingredients:</span></strong><em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> internal grade pure bentonite clay, organic orange peel powder*, organic rosehip powder*, organic strawberry powder*, wild harvested bladdewrack (fucus vesiculosus), and organic spirulina* (anthrospira platensis).</span></em></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">*Organically grown and produced in accordance with the California Organic foods Act of 1990.</span></span></em></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Order it online:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.kushistore.com/Rejuva-Organics-Earth-and-Sea-Clay-Beauty-Mask-Kit-REJ04.htm">http://www.kushistore.com/Rejuva-Organics-Earth-and-Sea-Clay-Beauty-Mask-Kit-REJ04.htm</a>
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7533084861083993349.post-53877700591601517502012-06-05T15:00:00.000-06:002012-06-05T15:00:02.513-06:00Green Printers for You and the Environment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UQxp7Gsprg/T2PpukoaR_I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/0C_Ye2qkrsM/s1600/media.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UQxp7Gsprg/T2PpukoaR_I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/0C_Ye2qkrsM/s320/media.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you are in need of some great quality business cards and want to go eco, then check out Green Printer. They offer a variety of green papers to choose from and vegetable based inks. They can print anything from brochures and business cards to posters and postcards.</div>
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I recently ordered a brand new batch of newly designed business cards and used one of my own photos on the card and it came out great!<br />
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Here is a link to the new design:<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sH7pJM7TftlZR8EZYJp_BcUpthGpN0-ejWwkxC7ZbNw/edit">https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sH7pJM7TftlZR8EZYJp_BcUpthGpN0-ejWwkxC7ZbNw/edit</a><br />
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Want more info on why YOU should print GREEN?<br />
<a href="http://www.greenprinteronline.com/content/WhyGreen">http://www.greenprinteronline.com/content/WhyGreen</a><br />
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Check out Green Printer:<br />
<a href="http://www.greenprinteronline.com/">http://www.greenprinteronline.com/</a><br />
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<br />Simple & Healthy Livinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08052377705063780689noreply@blogger.com0