Links to a Healthy Weekend

July 10, 2010

Happy Weekend! I’m not sure about you, but I am loving summer right now. After July 4th passes it seems that everyone starts to get in the mindset that summer is ending, but for me it feels like it just began.

We had a wonderful morning at our Farmer’s Market today. Our community will be showing FRESH next week so I got hit up for a couple radio spots about that and our market products since our local station was out broadcasting with the vendors this morning.

I always feel so strange hearing myself! It was even worse today because I’m fighting a major head cold that has me down and out a bit. I’m hoping to kick it soon.

Back to it still being summer, I think one of the reasons I feel like celebrating it longer this year is our garden. I had some requests for a garden update so here you go. Then, finally I’m back with a few links for your healthy weekend!

These photos were taken in mid-June.

Corn and strawberry plants. A few tomato plants in the background.

Jalapenos, yellow squash blooms, cherry tomatoes and bell peppers

Brandywine tomato

The following photos were taken last week.

Spaghetti squash bloom and a curious pug

Maybe a few raspberries this year

Plenty of Rainbow Chard

Japanese Eggplant

Cucumber plant

Massive zucchini plant and our first zucchini

Still waiting for the tomatoes to turn red

Hope you enjoyed the garden tour, now for the links!

Encyclopedia of Oats from The Edible Perspective will tell you everything you need to know about varieties of oats and how to prepare them. I know I have some oats lovers out there! You will enjoy this.

Japanese Soufflé Cheesecake from A Spoon Full of Sugah looks amazing. My husband is a big fan of light and airy cheesecakes so I can’t wait to make this one for him. I’ll let you know how it turns out when I do!

Nut Milk Troubleshooting from Choosing Raw is a great post about some common mistakes with making your own nut milk. Have you tried making it before? I haven’t, but it is definitely something I plan to at some point.

Chevre Cheesecake With Rhubarb Compote and Candied Pistachios was featured on Foodista a little while back. Such a unique combination to me. I do have some frozen rhubarb from this season…

Cinnamon-Girl July 10, 2010 at 6:55 pm

Your garden is looking good Lori! All we have are green tomatoes too – and some string beans. Hope you’re having a great weekend!

Anna July 10, 2010 at 10:18 pm

Awwwww! That is so precious, must be wonderful to see the veggies growing. I have a pot with zucchini and I just got some blossoms, I felt so exited. I can imagine you with all this variety.

Joanne July 11, 2010 at 5:26 am

TWO cheesecake links in one post! Yikes.

The garden looks gorgeous! you have one seriously green thumb.

kat July 11, 2010 at 7:28 am

Your garden is looking great!

Elizabeth Jarrard July 11, 2010 at 2:18 pm

wow your garden looks great!! and i love the oatmeal link!! thanks

Xai July 11, 2010 at 3:15 pm

your garden looks amazing. i bet all the recipes that will come out of this garden would taste amazing!

Deborah Dowd July 11, 2010 at 7:52 pm

Alas, my garden this year is suffering from a lack of water and oppressive heat. Nice to see the bounty in your backyard!

Fresh Local and Best July 11, 2010 at 8:34 pm

You are so lucky to have such a productive garden. Each of the veggies look great. I am sure the zucchini plant will be prolific, and you’ll probably be scrambling to find recipes to keep up with them.

Congratulations on getting interviewed on the local radio station. I’m sure you did terrific.

♥¸¸.•*¨Skip to Malou¨¨*•.¸¸♥¸ July 11, 2010 at 10:02 pm

You definitely have a green thumb. Wow I wish I could grow a garden like yours… but yeah it reminded me of our orchard back home in the Philippines. I remember picking eggplants, tomatoes, etc… I loved the dirt and the smell of the wet soil…
thanks for giving us a tour!

Tangled Noodle July 12, 2010 at 8:19 am

What an awesome garden! You’ll be eating so wonderfully fresh this summer. 😎

Daily Spud July 12, 2010 at 4:05 pm

So lovely to see your wonderful garden bounty! I haven’t been able to grow as much this year as I’d like, as I’ll probablyy be moving house soon. One of the big priorities for wherever I end up will, of course, be a decent garden 🙂

Juliana July 12, 2010 at 6:51 pm

Wow, you have your own zucchini, that is awesome 🙂
The zucchini cake with candied walnut must taste so yummie…very creative.

Lori July 13, 2010 at 3:31 am

Thanks for all the kind comments on the garden. It has been a lot of fun, yet not without a little stress. Ha, ha! We’ve been having big problems keeping the grass down.

Joanne – I didn’t even realize I had put in two cheesecakes until you said that. Ha, ha! I must be hungry for it!

The Food Hunter July 13, 2010 at 2:44 pm

that’s an awesome garden you’ve got there.

saveur July 15, 2010 at 8:03 am

I love the pics from your garden! I can’t wait to see what you make when it all ripens. 🙂

Zibi August 12, 2010 at 6:30 pm

I love all the photos from your garden, it looks so productive. My parents have brought some of their extras over – even more fresh than the farmer’s market.

Hopefully when the fresh slow cooking kitchen finds a new home it will include a yard!

Mexican Tapas in Geneva, IL

Links to a Healthy Weekend

June 6, 2010

What a beautiful weekend we’ve had around here! While we are getting some calming summer rain today, yesterday was hot and sunny. My husband and I ran a local 5K – Run for the Nun. I just love that name! Obviously it was put on by a church and it supports local charity.

I left the event feeling pretty proud because 3 years ago before we moved abroad I ran it and had to walk a lot of it due to hills. I’m thrilled that yesterday it was completely manageable. It was one of those times when you realize your exercise is paying off.

It was opening day at our local, county Farmer’s Market yesterday. I went out to take photos for our Facebook page and talk with vendors. Oh my, I learned so much in just two hours. I have a feeling you’ll be getting lots of interesting posts this summer!

Before I feature more about our market, I need to back up a little and tell you about the Lexington Farmer’s Market which we visited last weekend. Things have been going strong since we left three years ago and this year an outdoor pavilion and pedestrian-only area was opened for the Saturday market.

It is wonderful – lots of families, dogs and vendors as well as food. There is a booth that cooks up local products, a pizza place and a crepe stand. Next time I think I’ll hit it a little earlier to miss the crowds, but I was so impressed with all the wonderful greens available. The market also allows out-of-state products so a few peaches from Georgia and tomatoes from Florida show up too. I don’t typically go for the tomatoes, but I’ll take a fresh Georgia peach any day.

Before, the pictures, a few links. Hope you enjoy the reading to end your weekend!

Why Raw Local Honey? from Culinate is an article I found last week, but it got even more interesting to me this week. I spent some time talking to two of our local honey producers at the market yesterday. I learned all about both local and traveling honey production as well as their definitions for raw honey. I will do a post about it soon.

The Last Supper by Chik n’ Pastry has climbed the ranks to my favorite Foodbuzz 24×24 event. The author went vegetarian for a month and this was her last meal before gladly welcoming meat back into her diet. The honesty and humor are great.

This Is Why Health Claims on Foods and Supplements Really Suck by Fooducate caught my attention this week. I’ve always disliked the practice and allowances for this in the US – too many generalizations and, quite frankly, sometimes lies. This post sums up why you should seek a better source than a product label for your health info.

My Legume Love Affair 24 is being hosted by A Little Bit of Spain in Iowa! Recipe entries featuring legumes are due by June 30th. International participants have the chance to win a cookbook and US participants could win a nice big box of beans!

Chef to Diners: Clean Your Plate or Be Banned! was an article on msnbc.com. I had some fun conversation on Twitter with this one the other day. What do you think?

My book review of Thirty Percent Chance of Enlightenment was posted on The Lost Girls this week. It is a great travel memoir if you need some summer reading.

A special thanks to my brother who helped me get the new template tweaked. I wanted the center column a bit wider and the blog to expand to the page. I’m really happy with how it has turned out!

Now, enjoy a few pictures from the Lexington Farmer’s Market.

Fresh Local and Best June 6, 2010 at 10:43 am

There is so much inspiration at the farmer’s market. I can’t wait to see more pictures from the farmer’s market near you!

Michelle @ Find Your Balance June 6, 2010 at 4:06 pm

Look at all those delicious greens! We’re not getting peaches quite yet but I love hitting the market each week to see what’s new.

Joanne June 7, 2010 at 3:57 am

Congrats on your 5K! That is so awesome.

Sounds like you had one fun weekend. I’m loving that Farmer’s Market. So many delicious things to choose from.

gastroanthropologist June 7, 2010 at 9:11 am

Run for the Nun – yah, love that name. Drooling over those peaches…

sarah (Catch A Cub In Its Den) June 7, 2010 at 6:00 pm

congrats on rockin’ the 5K this time around!

Cinnamon-Girl June 8, 2010 at 6:19 pm

This comment has been removed by the author.

Cinnamon-Girl June 8, 2010 at 6:23 pm

I just love going to the Farmer’s Market – even if it’s through cyberspace! Congratulations on doing so well in the run!

heather @ chiknpastry June 10, 2010 at 11:45 am

hi – thanks for the shout-out! glad you enjoyed the post. me? i’m enjoying having steak again 🙂

The Great Peanut Butter Exhibition #9

Links to a Healthy Weekend

May 1, 2010

I waited until the perfect time to try it; after all the other treats had gone and day after day of staring at it made the cravings unbearable. You see I got quite the Easter gift this year. My thoughtful husband picked up my Easter gift while in the Chicago airport during a business trip — Vosges Haut-chocolat.

Thus far in my chocolate-tasting experiences, this is the best chocolate I have ever had. I absolutely love it, all the wild flavor combos with the wasabi, peppers, curry, bacon, sea salts. The list goes on and on. When I eat it I feel like one of those people on the tacky chocolate commercials who fall into a relaxing dream-like state of contentment.

It is that good. Promise.

My Easter gift consisted of a 42% deep milk chocolate rooster made with pink Himalayan salt and a 62% dark chocolate bunny made with Tahitian vanilla bean.

First came the rooster. I’m usually a dark chocolate fan, but there was something about the deep milk with its smooth and creamy texture that has me rethinking my preferences. It lacked the bitterness of dark chocolate and was sweet, yet not too sweet. The salt tingles your tongue. A perfect combination.

Next came the bunny. Poor bunny that was at first earless, then headless, and now, all gone. He was full of vanilla bean, and the mix of the bitter, yet sweet bean with the chocolate was nothing short of incredible.

I know. It’s just chocolate, you say. But no, Vosges chocolate is not just chocolate, it is seriously a full food experience.

**************************************************

Now that I have everyone craving chocolate, I’ll move on to the links. I just had to share my Easter gift with you.

It’s a big weekend around here. My husband runs his first marathon tomorrow! He’s going to do great, but feel free to wish him luck anyway! I get to be a spectator and cheer him on as well as test my camera skills with action photos. I’ll report back on Monday.

Until then, I found some great reads over the past couple weeks that I hope you enjoy too.

It’s Derby time and if you don’t know what a Mint Julep is you need to read this. It’s a big part of Kentucky culture and food history. Cheers!

Homemade Strawberry Applesauce from Reluctant Vegetarian makes great use of those spring berries. It looks very easy to make. I probably shouldn’t, but I just keep picturing it over some ice cream!

Getting College Students to Eat Better Using a Stealthy Strategy is a report from Science Daily about recent research which shows that connecting food to environmental and social issues results in better eating habits. Very interesting and it has worked for me as well.

What Came First: The Chicken or the Cancer? is a guest post on the FRESH website regarding that popular fried chicken company that has decided it wants to donate money to cancer research. Even if you don’t have time to read the whole thing, just go read the last line. Sums it up pretty well.

Tips for Tackling the Hawkers and Savoring the Foods of Singapore is my recent post at The 3 Star Traveler. Lots of food photos from our time there last October!

VeggieGirl May 1, 2010 at 3:15 pm

Ahhh I LOVE Vosges chocolate!! So flavorful and smooth.

Good luck to your husband tomorrow!!

Daily Spud May 1, 2010 at 4:52 pm

Good luck to your husband in the marathon – it’s quite an undertaking but a really great feeling to complete one!

As for the vosges chocolate, well of course I now just want to get my hands on some 🙂

Amanda (Two Boos Who Eat) May 1, 2010 at 5:24 pm

So true about Vosges chocolate. It’s amazing!

Lazaro Cooks! May 1, 2010 at 8:21 pm

The chocolate sounds divine. Best of luck to your husband.

sangeeta May 1, 2010 at 11:47 pm

great links…….. i liked the first two very much….

Debinhawaii May 2, 2010 at 1:46 am

Great links and Vosges is some of my favorite chocolate, their deep milk is perfect creamy and not too sweet. Yum!

Joanne May 2, 2010 at 4:57 am

Good luck to your husband! I know he will rock it. Keep us posted on how he does!

That chocolate looks fantastic! I could totally use a bite…I want to go into one of those seriously contented comas!

I love these links…especially the one about KFC and cancer…I feel exactly the same way as that author – INFURIATED about it.

Mo May 2, 2010 at 6:21 am

Thanks for all the links. Interesting reads! 🙂

Tangled Noodle May 2, 2010 at 7:47 am

I tried a Vosges chili pepper chocolate and it was amazing! It would be hard to go back to a Snickers bar afterward. 😎

Once again, enjoyed your weekend links, especially your guide to dining in Singaporean hawker centers. Hopefully, I’ll have a chance to use your advice!

♥¸¸.•*¨Skip to Malou¨¨*•.¸¸♥¸ May 2, 2010 at 4:28 pm

the marathon must be over while i write this comment, but i hope your husband did good. I have never been to a marathon, but they always say that finishing one is a great feeling!

i have not tried vosges chocolate but it looks divine.

reluctant veggie May 2, 2010 at 7:11 pm

hope your hubby kicked butt on the marathon!

thanks for the linky love. 🙂

Sagan May 3, 2010 at 6:07 am

CUTE CHOCOLATE BUNNY!

Emily (A Nutritionist Eats) May 3, 2010 at 12:57 pm

That chocolate is the best! My BF is obsessed with the bacon flavor! 🙂
I still owe you an email…sorry!

Juliana May 3, 2010 at 3:24 pm

I hope you husband did well 🙂
Thanks for the links!

Lori May 4, 2010 at 2:31 pm

Thanks for the well wishes. He did great! Finished in 4:39. I appreciate the response regarding the links. It is good to know that everyone enjoys them!

Fresh Local and Best May 5, 2010 at 8:04 pm

I love Vosges chocolate too! Thanks for the link, thought the article on chicken and cancer was interesting

Blackberry Yogurt Coffee Cake

Links to a Healthy Weekend

April 10, 2010

Did you miss them?

Yes, the links of been absent for about three or four weeks now. Sorry about that. It’s not that I haven’t been reading. In fact, I have a whole list of things bookmarked and I’ve discovered some wonderful new food blogs in recent weeks. It’s just been that by the time the weekend rolls around, the opportunity to sit down and write a post including them fades.

On Twitter the other day I wrote that I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. Anyone else in that boat? This isn’t necessarily a negative thing, but all my thoughts and actions have drifted outdoors. I’m loving the weather and our new yard, however, between the half marathon, lawn mowing, prepping a garden and making our way through the final boxes still left in the garage there is always something to do. Computer time is work time and if I’m not working, I want to be outside.

But after getting the yard mowed last night and taking a beautiful run near the horse farms this morning, I am enjoying a little down time this afternoon. I thought some great links were in order!

Spring Chicken and Asparagus Soup from Fresh Slowcooking. Asparagus is all over the place this time of year and while it has taken me a while to come around I actually kind of like it now. (It has been my least favorite vegetable in previous years.) I like that this recipe is different than the usual grilled and steamed version that is so common.

Window Farming: A Do-It-Yourself Veggie Venture from NPR. If you feel space is a barrier to growing some of your own produce definitely check this out!

You Are What You Eat is a photo essay by Mark Menjivar. It is composed of several photos of the inside of refrigerators from people with different backgrounds, jobs, and eating styles. Such a simple thing, but so educational and fascinating.

Making a Foreign Staple Work Back Home from the NYTimes is an entertaining article that anyone who has ever traveled to experience culture and food can relate to.

Taste of Beirut is a food blog I just discovered and it has quickly topped my list. Since we haven’t traveled for a few months now, something that feels so odd after years living abroad, I feel my motivation to cook cultural food waning a bit. It’s blogs like these that remind me why I love to cook and travel. I’m also very excited that a family friend who cuts my hair back in my hometown has her Lebanese mother-in-law living with her. They have invited me to come and learn how to make some traditional dishes sometime this summer. I’ll keep you posted!

Photo of Macy enjoying the bed she got for Easter.

Anna April 10, 2010 at 4:57 pm

Oh yes! I know exactly what you are talking about, so much to do so little time. Sometimes I wish I was like a octopus with 4 pairs of arms. That would help a lot. Your dog is the cutest, he looks very relaxed.

Tangled Noodle April 10, 2010 at 7:57 pm

I’m in a constant state of trying to keep my head above the water, although 99.9% is due to my lack of organization and time management. I’m working on it!

These links are great, particularly Taste of Beirut – it’s an amazing site! You’ll have to share what you learn about Lebanese cooking. 😎

Fresh Local and Best April 10, 2010 at 10:45 pm

I know what you mean about feeling overwhelmed. I found that it’s best to step back and take care of yourself before tackling additional projects and challenges.

Cinnamon-Girl April 11, 2010 at 7:35 am

I can relate to your feelings of being overwhelmed. Everyday I wish for more hours to the day…Your dog is adorable! Thanks for the links – hope you’re having a good weekend with some down time.

Lazaro Cooks! April 11, 2010 at 10:11 am

Saw you on another page. Glad I found and read your interesting blog. Look forward to following you here. Have a great day! Cheers!

Debinhawaii April 11, 2010 at 10:27 pm

I have felt the same way the past few weeks. I could stand another couple of hours each day. 😉

Loved the links–the fridge photo essay was so fascinating!

Zibi April 12, 2010 at 6:15 pm

I was feeling overwhelmed with the onset of nicer weather too… torn between enjoying the spring outdoors and putting in a little blog time… it’s all tougher to juggle than I thought, with a full time and all…

Thanks so much for the link love 🙂
Hopefully your readers enjoy it too.

Spinach Pesto Spread

Links to Healthy Weekend

March 14, 2010

I’m looking out the window at a very dreary, rainy afternoon. It may have ruined plans for a walk, but I can’t help being happy to see the drizzle. Why? Well, because if you look closely you can actually see the landscape getting greener by the minute. It is amazing what a little (almost) spring rain can do.

These changes remind me of why I love living in this part of the US. – the four distinct seasons we experience. I’m always excited for what the next part of the year has to offer.

This great weekend started on Friday when we finally got our couch! I’m so happy with it. After not having a comfortable one for 3 years (Brazil just doesn’t offer the same types of couches we use here in the U.S.), and then being without one completely for the last six months, I really just want to curl up on it all day long. Although, I’m not sure who loves it more, me or the pug. I had no idea the pillows would be the perfect pug size when we ordered it.

Despite the rain today, it has been an excellent weekend around here. Yesterday I attended a Farm to Table: Diversity in Ag mini-conference in our county. I learned about worm composting and growing herbs, both of which will result in posts later this spring and summer. I also had a delicious lunch of local foods which I’ll talk more about this week.

To top off all those happenings, I ran 10 miles yesterday! And, no. I have no idea how I did it! It is by far the furthest I’ve ever run, and now I finally feel ready for the half marathon in two weeks.

How was your weekend? Is spring peaking out where you are?

I didn’t get a links post up last weekend so some of these are from the past couple of weeks. I think you will enjoy them.

The Theme Is…Peanut Butter! is the ultimate peanut butter recipe round-up from Tasty Kitchen at The Pioneer Woman. I know most of the food blogging world reads this blog, but I couldn’t pass up sharing this fabulous post. If you like peanut butter even the tiniest bit you will want to check this out. From sweet to savory to spicy, the selection is unbelievable!

Real Food Face-Off has been a weekly feature at Kitchen Stewardship the past few weeks. It features a Q & A with several real-food-advocating authors and bloggers. I’ve really enjoyed reading about all the views, practices and opinions and especially like this one I’ve linked to here.

EatingRD provided us with a very well researched post about maca. I’ve been seeing the powder mentioned on several blogs around the web. If you are interested in learning more about it check out this post.

What IS “Healthy” Food? from Food Sleuth answers this question from a real, nourishing food perspective. I have to say, I’m a big fan of the answers provided.

Abundant Mangoes from Sense and Serendipity put a big smile on my face and had me day dreaming of more tropical climates. If you want to see some of the beautiful fruit nature has to offer, and perhaps get a wee bit jealous of this mango bounty, head over and take a look.

I also recently posted Advice from an Expat Who Hadn’t Planned to Be One at The 3 Star Traveler. If you want to know a little more about me and my ex-pat experience I welcome you to take a look.

Tangled Noodle March 14, 2010 at 7:09 pm

Looks like a certain pug has found a favorite spot on the new sofa . . . adorable! Thanks for another great set of links. Even though I can’t ‘do’ PB, I appreciate deliciousness in any form. And Divina’s mangos have me yearning for these fruits.

Hope you had a great weekend! After days of rain, the sun finally broke through for a lovely Sunday here in MN. 😎

Debinhawaii March 15, 2010 at 12:42 am

Sounds like you are having a great weekend and I love the picture of your puppy on the couch–so cute. I am going to check out the link on maca–I just bought some and I am not sure what to do with it yet. 😉

Joanne March 15, 2010 at 10:03 am

I somehow missed that Tasty Kitchen article on PB! Thanks for posting it. Congrats on your happy weekend 😀

MelindaRD March 15, 2010 at 10:23 am

I read your other article and I totally didn’t realize you lived in Brazil. Do you speak Portuguese. So many people speak English on this island, so I can get by with a little, but I am working on it, plus the European is different from the Brazilian. I love living overseas and I hope that our next station is still somewhere in Europe. There is so much to see and lots of travel to be done, so I am enjoying every minute of it.

Sagan March 15, 2010 at 7:54 pm

PEANUT BUTTER ROUNDUP?!

Must run and check that out…

(and I think that ALL furniture is specially designed with pets in mind ;)).

Nutty Cauliflower Quinoa

Links to a Healthy Weekend

February 6, 2010

This first week of February flew by! I was able to do some cooking and baking which, of course, makes me happy. Otherwise I’m staying busy with writing and that makes me happy too.

I don’t know about you, but my head is swimming with game food and Valentine’s Day recipes. We might be going to a party for the big game, which means not much cooking creativity for me, but the Valentine’s baking will be a different story. I’ve still got some chocolate cravings left even after yesterday’s brownies!

I missed last week’s installment of links so I’ve got several for you this time around. Maybe good news for everyone snowed in who could use some extra reading material.

Gonna Want Seconds had me intrigued with Mama’s Old Fashioned Chili. It has both dark beer and coffee in it!

Target announced last week that it will be eliminating farmed salmon from its stores. A good read as I continue my quest to learn more about sustainable fish and seafood.

When Chocolate and Chakras Collide was an article on NYTimes.com. It’s all about a relaxing yoga class followed by delicious food!

A Little Bit of Spain in Iowa had a great post on Real Fat that touched on the topic of self-love. I too, am becoming a fan of real, natural fat from animal sources. It’s a lot about going back to your roots and nutrition for me.

The Art of Non-Conformity had an excellent post last week about What You Don’t Do Doesn’t Matter. It will remind you to do, instead of think and wish.

The Road Forks shared their day with the elephants with some fabulous photos. This was the same farm, Patara Elephant Farm, which my husband and I visited to during our Southeast Asia trip so it brought back great memories.

Photo of a belated Christmas gift from a friend. Pug mug.

Cinnamon-Girl♥ February 6, 2010 at 7:23 pm

Have a great weekend Lori! Love the links – especially happy to hear the Target news.

Sook February 6, 2010 at 10:20 pm

I always do badly on weekends. So thanks for these links. 🙂 I’ve been thinking a lot about Valentine’s day, too. I have no idea what I will make. 🙂 Have a great weekend.

Blackberry Brownies

Links to a Healthy Weekend

January 10, 2010

What a fast weekend! I can’t believe it is already Sunday evening. What a great week though! Despite the fact that I simply can’t get warm, two years without a true winter has me jumping for joy with the snow we’ve gotten around here. Kentucky can be hit or miss when it comes to a snowy winter, but with three or four inches on the ground and relatively clear roads we are enjoying some beautiful winter scenery. We even went out for a drive yesterday and saw a few buffalo braving the cold. (I know they look like they could be just about anything, but I promise, they are buffalo.)

All day yesterday was spent house shopping. We found one we liked, but we’ll just have to see how things progress. However, I will say the kitchen was beautiful! The most important part of the house, of course. Then to top off the excitement we picked up our first order of pork, beef, chicken and eggs from a local farm. Pike Valley Farm produces grassfed/pastured/natural foods. I can’t wait to share more about it in a later post, maybe this spring.

Today I continued my journey on the half marathon training path getting in four miles on the treadmill this afternoon. I haven’t braved the cold yet, but I will have to once the race gets closer. I do have my hopes up that it will at least be in the 40s by the end of March for the actual event. I figure no reason to get acclimated to zero if I don’t have to!

Below are a few of the things I enjoyed reading this week. How was your week?

Agriculture Society shared the post Proof that Real Food Doesn’t Have to Cost a Bundle. A great read that outlines the cost of meals made with real, naturally produced foods. I love reading posts like this. Like everyone else, I get caught up in feeling that we can’t afford to eat this way, but the truth is we can. We just have to adjust our budget, our views and perhaps sacrifice a few minor things, but it’s definitely worth it.

Safety of Beef Processing Method Is Questioned was an article last week from NYtimes.com and likely something you don’t want to read while you are eating. It may turn your stomach a bit, but it is an eye opening read and it makes me incredibly happy that I just bought 4 lbs or ground beef from a local farmer!

Kiss My Spatula posted some gorgeous Homemade Goat Cheese. It made me want to run out and buy some milk or perhaps even my own dairy goat!

Is the fat acceptance movement bad for our health? was a thought provoking article on CNN.com. I would love to hear your opinion.

The Dabble had a great recap post of a recent trip to Purdue University’s campus including eats and drinks. My husband and I are both alumni and are headed back up for a basketball game in February. We are really excited to visit some old favorites. You’ll also love the Chocolate Torte Cake recipe in the post!

On Go Galavanting I posted about a cool little bed and breakfast in Colorado called the Fresh and Wyld Inn offering SOUL food cooking classes (sustainable, organic, unprocessed and local).

If you still want to learn more about Antigua, I posted more about my non-food experiences on The 3 Star Traveler.

Making one of my first attempts to stick with my New Year’s commitments, I made the Mushroom Barley Soup from Two Peas and Their Pod this week. It was delicious!

Maria January 10, 2010 at 4:22 pm

Thanks for the link love:) Glad you enjoyed the soup. I can’t wait to make it again!

Fresh Local and Best January 10, 2010 at 4:58 pm

Thanks for the links! It looks like you’ve had a great weekend. The soup looks great!

Erica January 10, 2010 at 5:30 pm

Great links! Especially the Homemade Goat Cheese. Love Maria and Josh’s blog. They have the BEST recipe! Happy Sunday

lesley lifting life January 10, 2010 at 8:58 pm

Glad you got to enjoy a little snow! 🙂

Debinhawaii January 10, 2010 at 11:22 pm

Great links and a delicious-looking soup. I am now craving barley! 😉

Lori January 11, 2010 at 6:14 am

Glad you liked the links! Lots of great stuff out there. Enjoy your week!

kat January 11, 2010 at 7:29 am

Can’t wait to hear more about the house hunt. I thought that soup looked great too

Blake January 11, 2010 at 9:18 am

Thanks for posting a link to the CNN article… an interesting read.

Tangled Noodle January 14, 2010 at 6:59 am

Thanks for the weekend links (although I’m late, once again!) I’m intrigued by the homemade goat cheese and the mushroom barley soup warmed me up without even a taste!

As for the fat acceptance movement, I applaud their work toward ensuring that overweight persons do not face discrimination; furthermore, as was noted in the article, many people who are at ‘healthy’ weight don’t necessarily lead ‘healthy’ lifestyles of nutrition and exercise. Finally, many elite athletes usually score high BMIs because of their muscle weight but are far from ‘fat’.

Still, fat acceptance must be careful not to foster complacency: neither extremes of human morphology – overly thin, overweight – are optimally healthy. We should always strive to keep ourselves in the best shape we possibly can.

Expanding My Tea Knowledge: Pu-erh

Links to a Healthy Weekend

December 5, 2009

My Saturday is going to be a full day in the kitchen and I couldn’t be happier about it. I am co-hosting a cookie exchange on Sunday so I’ve got a lot of baking to do. I can’t wait to share some of the goodies with you next week!

Tonight we have my husband’s company Christmas party which is always a lot of fun. We missed last year so it has been a while since I’ve seen some of his coworkers and their spouses. The dance party and local beer make for a good time as well.

I’m very slowly getting back into something that resembles a familiar groove. Writing, reading and networking is making it back onto my daily agenda. I am feeling a bit overwhelmed with the holidays, though. Moving back was a huge event and I feel like I’m running to catch up with the holiday season. I hope I do soon because I’m worried it is going to be over before I have time to enjoy it fully!

How is the season going for you this year?

Some great reads from the week and a bit before…

Art and Lemons cooked up some Pumpkin Pie Rice Pudding. I’d never thought of a pumpkin twist on rice pudding. Two of my favorite desserts all rolled into one. It looks so good!

Not Derby Pie shared Eggnog Ice Cream. I had just been thinking about making this when I found the post. I’ve been craving eggnog lately and have squeezed in a couple Eggnog Lattes so far this season. I think I’ll make this ice cream for New Years.

Delicious Delicious Delicious brought back memories of Southeast Asia with Black Sesame Madeleines. We tried a lot of black sesame desserts while there and I loved the nutty flavor. These sound great with coffee.

Have you heard about Terra Madre Day? It will take place on December 10 to celebrate the 20th birthday of the Slow Food Movement. Check out the site to see if there is a foodie event taking place near you.

Homegrown gardens yield better nutrition, boost self-esteem was an article on TriCities.com that I enjoyed reading this week. It’s amazing what a simple garden can do for both physical and mental health.

Photo of a gingerbread house display at the resort during our visit to Jamaica last December.

VeggieGirl December 5, 2009 at 10:05 am

Hope you find your groove soon – I hear ya on that!

Erica December 5, 2009 at 2:03 pm

I hear ya on the overwhelming feeling from the holidays! I just always feel like I’m fighting to catch up! I can’t even imagine how overwhelmed you feel having just moved! Pumpkin rice pudding? YUM!

OysterCulture December 6, 2009 at 8:37 am

Love the sounds of all the wonderful cookies, and I have baking envy. We’re moving apartments and all my stuff is in boxes. The black sesame mandalines sound so intriguing. Glad you’re having fun!

Cinnamon-Girl Reeni♥ December 6, 2009 at 7:42 pm

Eggnog ice cream and pumpkin pie rice pudding? Where have I been? These sound absolutely divine! Hope you had fun at the party!

lesley lifting life December 6, 2009 at 8:29 pm

Moving and then the holidays … that would be hard to catch up with! You’ll get there, though 🙂

A cookie exchange? Sounds like fun!!

Sarah December 7, 2009 at 5:26 pm

Moving is always all consuming, especially at the holidays! Good luck with your catching up, I may need to pull out the madaline pan for the black seame madelines, they sound delicious!

Tangled Noodle December 8, 2009 at 8:07 pm

I’d love to hear all about your cookie exchange! Thanks again for more great links. I’m neck-deep in end-of-semester projects and final exams so blogging and blog reading have been pushed back (although as you can see, I’m sneaking them in!) But we’re almost to a New Year – a new start!

Spicy Pumpkin Crock Pot Chili

Links to a Healthy Weekend

September 5, 2009

I hope you have had a great week! Any big plans for this holiday weekend?

My posts have been short on the recipes this week because I’ve been away from the kitchen. Next week I hope to have the time to do some more creating. I’m definitely feeling the urge to cook and bake.

Since I couldn’t give you much to fill your recipe box this week, I’ve found a few from around the web (along with a foodie travel adventure) for this week’s installment of links. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Not Derby Pie showed off a delicious No-brainer Zucchini Soup. I’ve actually never used zucchini in soup except to toss it in as a chopped veggie.

Farmgirl Fare is a blog I found not long ago and I really enjoy catching up on it when I can. This week there was a wonderful recipe pulled from the archives for Green Tomato Relish.

Food for Living caught my attention with Banana Date Walnut Bread. Made with date sugar and oat and whole wheat flours this is would make one healthy and delicious breakfast!

I Like Granola takes us on a tour of foodie adventures in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Complete with beautiful pictures of all that was eaten along the way.

In other news, I completely forgot to spread the word about Feet on the Street at Off Her Cork. I was honored to be featured for the August edition. If you want to know a little more about me and what it is like to run and exercise in a foreign country, check it out.

Finally, if you happen to participate in athletic events for charity I’m always looking for people to interview for posts at Charity Mile. Let me know. I’d love to feature you in a post.

Felt like the weekend links were about due for another Macy Mae photo!

VeggieGirl September 5, 2009 at 6:42 am

Definitely get back in the kitchen!! Baking and cooking are great stress-relievers 🙂

Happy weekend to ya, Lori!! Thanks again for fabulous links.

Cinnamon Girl aka Reeni♥ September 5, 2009 at 9:08 am

Have a great weekend!

Erica September 5, 2009 at 10:46 am

Always love seeing pictures of your little cutie 😉 Great links. I am excited to make up some pumpkin and banana bread with fall coming! Hope you have a great weekend

Tangled Noodle September 5, 2009 at 12:01 pm

Look at that face! 8-D

Love your recipes but I can totally understand being away from the kitchen. Thanks for the great link! Now that cooler weather is around the corner, soup sounds really good.

And I enjoyed Andrea’s post about you. Enjoy your weekend!

Debinhawaii September 7, 2009 at 12:02 am

Fun links. It’s hard sometimes to get in the kitchen–the nice thing is it is always waiting when you get back! 😉

Sagan September 7, 2009 at 4:39 pm

Oooh tasty tasty.

Delightfully Healthy September 11, 2009 at 1:12 pm

Thanks for the great tips! I’m thinking about that Banana Bread pretty seriously. (Trying not to drool as I do…)

Fondue in Brazil

Links to a Healthy Weekend

August 1, 2009

As a kid, whenever August rolled around it always marked the end of summer. As an adult I enjoy the fact that it still feels like there is a bit of summer left, well, at least when I’m in the U.S. Still more hot days, summer salads and frozen desserts. So how has your summer been so far?

Last Sunday was my 6th wedding anniversary! My husband was away on business that took him to Ecuador, Costa Rica and the U.S. If you are feeling bad for me, I’m sure that will quickly go away when you read my posts later in December of celebration trip to Antigua. Since our honeymoon we’ve tried to go to the Caribbean each year and have since moved that trip from July to December.

I did end up with some great food gifts out of the whole deal though. Nut butters and energy bars were among the goodies as well as some chocolate from Ecuador. Then to top it off, he brought me Bourbon Balls!

If you’ve never had a bourbon ball then you are missing out. It is a bon-bon of sweet creamy filling with a hint of bourbon flavor, covered in dark chocolate and topped with a pecan. It is difficult to leave Kentucky without picking up a few so if you ever make it there try them out.

Such great reading throughout this last week of July! Here are some posts I’m sure you’ll enjoy as much as I did.

The Road Forks is a great blog I’ve come across recently and I just have to share. I don’t have a specific post but this blog is all about travel and food. So if that is your thing you are going to love it. Check it out!

The World Tastes Good celebrates the foods of Hawaii in a post this week. If, like me, you ever thought Hawaii was just pineapples, coffee and macadamia nuts this post is going to prove you wrong!

The Daily Spud offers all of us foodies some much needed help with her failure rating scale. Sometimes I think we are bit hard on ourselves when our hard work doesn’t turn out quite like we planned. Now you can analyze if it was as really as bad as you thought!

Health Nut shares some tempting Egyptian fare this week. This is a cuisine that is completely new to me, but I’m quickly learning has so many delicious flavors. I’m ready to start experimenting!

The Split Pea has just the recipe for using up fresh corn from summer. My mom used to make a fried corn growing up which I loved. This Trio of Corn Salad reminds me of that, but utilizes grilled corn with all kinds of additional tasty flavors.

OysterCulture August 1, 2009 at 12:38 pm

This is great, a few of these wonderful bloggers I know, but look forward to checking out your new recommendations!

Erica August 1, 2009 at 2:44 pm

Happy Anniversary!!!! Our anniversary is on Tuesday, I hope I get great food gifts too hehe

lesley August 1, 2009 at 5:02 pm

I think I’m missing out because I have never had a bourbon ball! Sounds very good!

Michelle @ Find Your Balance August 1, 2009 at 5:03 pm

Wow, all these anniversaries! Mine is tomorrow. It’s our first. 🙂 We are having dinner at the same restaurant we got married at. It’s an awesome place in Harvard Square with incredible local ingredients. Can’t wait! Happy Anniversary to you and Erica too!

Daily Spud August 1, 2009 at 6:49 pm

Thanks so much for the mention! Now I find myself wanting to try one of those bourbon balls – maybe not healthy exactly but everything in moderation, eh? 🙂

Alison August 1, 2009 at 8:25 pm

Thanks for the links! Road Forks sound really cool.

Tangled Noodle August 1, 2009 at 8:31 pm

Although the celebration is delayed a bit, it sounds like you’ll be doing it in style!

Another great set of links, especially two of my favorite blogs – Spud and Sapuche! Now there are 3 new ones to explore.

Chow and Chatter August 1, 2009 at 8:47 pm

happy Aniversary sweet Lori

Lori August 2, 2009 at 7:19 am

OysterCulture – I’ve been coming across some great new ones lately!

Erica – Happy Anniversary to you too!

lesley – Seriously, they are heaven! 🙂

Michelle – Happy Anniversary! That sounds like a fun dinner, what a cool place.

Daily Spud – Hey, now. There is something to be said for one drink a day and dark chocolate. 😉

Alison – I just found that blog this week and I love it!

TangledNoodle – Glad I was able to provide some new reading material. I love all the new ones I’ve been finding lately.

Chow and Chatter – Thank you!

sangeeta August 2, 2009 at 11:58 am

wishing you a very happy anniversary..

She-Fit August 2, 2009 at 4:31 pm

Happy 6th wedding anniversary! Thanks for the blog recommendations too 🙂

Reeni♥ August 2, 2009 at 6:51 pm

Happy Anniversary!! Hope your having a wonderful and healthy weekend!

5 Star Foodie August 2, 2009 at 7:54 pm

Happy anniversary! The Bourbon Balls look heavenly, I must get some to try!

Mindy August 3, 2009 at 12:32 pm

Maybe we should discuss the Pollan book over Bourbon balls at Woodford Reserve instead of over coffee. 😉

Marianne (frenchfriestoflaxseeds) August 3, 2009 at 8:33 pm

Ecuador chocolate – you are a lucky gal 🙂 Happy Anniversary!

Lori August 4, 2009 at 7:21 am

Thanks so much for the anniversary wishes!

Mindy – You are on and I’ll wear the platform boots if I find some. 🙂

Marianne – I had never had chocolate from Ecuador before. It was very good!

Akila August 19, 2009 at 8:25 am

Thanks so much for including us on this post! That is so nice of you! 🙂

Taking on the 30 Foods List: Single Serve Sweet Rice

Links to a Healthy Weekend

July 12, 2009

Has this weekend already come to an end? It is Sunday evening around here and pretty hard to believe. I had a weekend full of culture which I plan to share with you more throughout the next week.

As I kept up with my reading throughout the week I came across a few fun things that I couldn’t pass up sharing, even if this weekend is almost over.

Night Owls May Benefit from Evening Strength was an article on CNN this week reporting on a study about night owls and early birds. I am happy to have found some scientific support for my inability to be an early riser and exerciser. I have much more energy in the afternoon and evening.

On a similar note, Living Healthy in the Real World had a post about Sleep vs. Exercise. Which would you choose?

Tokyo Terrace, a great food-inspired blog written by a US ex-pat living in Japan, shared a beautiful spread for an easy, elegant brunch. As an ex-pat myself, brunch is one thing I miss dearly. I didn’t have it often, but there is something about the combination of breakfast and lunch in a relaxing atmosphere with friends that I really enjoy.

My Food and Life Encounters posted a recipe for Feijoada. I believe I’ve posted a recipe from her lately, but I couldn’t pass up sharing this one as well. Everyone asks me in one way or another about feijoada when they find out I live in Brazil. The two seem to be inseparable.

Photo of Gidget born in June with mom Marylin. The horses of my dear friend, Jackie.

Erica July 12, 2009 at 4:35 pm

Great links girl 🙂 I can’t believe the weekend is over either- blehhhhhhhhhhhh. Sleep vs. exercise…I usually choose exercise. I need to focus on sleep one of these days 😉

Amy July 12, 2009 at 6:35 pm

Exercise vs sleep sure is a tricky one! I never know which to choose so I just play it by ear.

Chow and Chatter July 12, 2009 at 6:57 pm

thanks for sharing lori you always find great reads, Rebecca

Emily July 12, 2009 at 7:36 pm

My dad lived in Brazil for a few years and always made us Fejoidda (sp) when we were younger! Good memories, I wasn’t a huge fan of it then but think I would like it now!

Marianne (frenchfriestoflaxseeds) July 13, 2009 at 12:00 am

I’m with you on not being a morning exerciser. It’s just not my thing. I love going to the gym after dinner in the evening – it’s relaxing for me 🙂 I’ve always been a night owl. Mom even says I was that way as a baby. I just wish society would be on my time table, so I didn’t have to go into work so early!

sangeeta July 13, 2009 at 12:32 am

thank you Lori for the great links….i was specially benefited by reading ‘Night owls…’ and ‘Sleep vs. exercise’…..i have been on a low energy level recently n it was kind of reassuring that to feel sleepy through the morning is not that bad..as i am very active in the evenings n nights…

Lori July 14, 2009 at 6:30 am

Erica – I know, fast weekend, but so far the week is going that way too. 🙂

Amy – I was a morning exerciser in the past, but now I like my snooze button. 🙂

Chow and Chatter – Thanks! Glad you enjoy them.

Emily – Very cool. I’d love to hear how things were when he was here. I’ve only had vegetarian feijoada. It is good, I just don’t want to have a pig ear floating in my black beans. We are going to try it out at a restaurant soon though, one that separates out the the meat.

Marianne – I agree. I loved the gym in the evening hours back home. I think I am a night owl by nature, but I have forced myself to be an morning exerciser before. I can never put forth as good of an effort though.

sangeeta – I felt the same way. My energy kicks in during the afternoon.

tokyoterrace August 4, 2009 at 8:48 pm

Thanks so much for mentioning my blog! I’m glad to hear there is another person out there who misses brunch dearly! It is a great meal… Hope all is well!

Zucchini Quiche with Whole Wheat Crust

Links to a Healthy Weekend

June 6, 2009

Hello, friends!

Even though I had been collecting links all week, I thought I was going to have to skip this installment of links due to my travel. However, here I sit in the airport during an incredibly long layover and I find myself with time to post them.

I hope you are well this weekend. As with most of my comings and goings between the US and Brazil, the feelings are bittersweet. I miss what I am leaving, but excited for what lies ahead (especially my husband!).

I arrive in Brazil in the morning and in our town tomorrow night. I have only four months left of this abroad experience and I have vowed to cook up a storm incorporating all the local ingredients I can so it should be exciting around here in the near future.

Enjoy these great reads and I’ll see you next week!

The Reuben Bread from Food and Life Encounters impressed me greatly. This is actually from last week, but it was just too wonderful to skip over when I found it this week. A Reuben is probably my favorite sandwich variety and this is an incredibly interesting twist.

Creating a Healthier Food Culture for Less Money on Care 2 Make a Difference was a thought provoking post with lots of great tips for how to take the steps to start making your foods from scratch. This one is from last month, but I just discovered it this week and thought it was well worth sharing.

Wheat Berry Salad with Cranberries, Feta and Mint from Not Derby Pie was a recipe and blog I discovered this week when searching out some ideas for how to use my wheat berries.

Eat Local. Die Trying? from Zompaa presents an important question we all have to answer when it comes to where we buy our produce and how it is grown.

Peanut Butter Boy is hosting The Great Peanut Butter Exhibition #6. The theme this time? Barbeque! The deadline is Monday.

Coconut & Lime is hosting a 5 year Blogiversary contest! You need to make one of her recipes or create one using coconut and lime to enter.

Photo of my pug, Macy Mae, taken just a few days ago. One of the things I will miss greatly the next few months.

Amy June 6, 2009 at 4:02 pm

Thanks for the great links, as always. I love the question about locally vs. organically. It’s something I struggle with all the time and am still working to find the answer. In the meantime, I love the discussion of it!

Have a safe flight!!

sangeeta June 7, 2009 at 2:08 am

good links dear…went through them n i must say about choosing local or organic……..that why not encourage the local farmers to get more price from their produce just by switching over to organic farming….i have a small kitchen garden where i grow some fresh organic veggies…..

Daily Spud June 7, 2009 at 3:51 am

Safe traveling and hope that you enjoy the remainder of your abroad experience (as I’m sure you will). If your ‘abroad’ plans still include Ireland, be sure to let me know!

Alison June 7, 2009 at 7:22 am

I really liked the Creating a Healthier Lifestyle article. It makes me want to bake my own bread.

Tangled Noodle June 7, 2009 at 7:42 am

Safe journey back to your Brazil home! I thought ‘Eat Local. Die Trying?’ was particularly interesting – the dilemma of conscientious eaters everywhere. Which issues take precedence or is it a matter of making conscious trade-offs? Thanks for the great links!

Vin | NaturalBias.com June 7, 2009 at 9:21 am

Eating locally produced foods that are grown conventionally raises a thought provoking question that makes us choose between our health and the environment. Although I choose in favor of my health, this is a tough question to answer and I appreciate the article at Zompaa for raising the question.

Reeni♥ June 7, 2009 at 1:31 pm

I hope you have safely made it home and into the arms of your husband – who I’m certain has missed you! And thanks for all the links!

Michelle @ Find Your Balance June 7, 2009 at 2:22 pm

Only 4 months left in Brazil? Live it up! Hope you got home safe and sound 🙂

Sagan June 8, 2009 at 12:53 pm

Great links. Macy Mae is adorable!

Savory Wheat Berry Salad

Links to a Healthy Weekend!

May 2, 2009

Happy Derby Day!

I’m not in Kentucky to celebrate this year, but I can feel the excitement of this day all the way down in Brazil. I’m not a big gambler and I’m only a moderate horse race fan (I close my eyes during the start because I don’t want to see any horses get hurt), but there is something about the history and excitement that goes along with the Kentucky Derby that I love.

Maybe it has something to do with the Mint Juleps made of simple syrup, fresh mint and Kentucky bourbon, or perhaps the Derby pies with pecans, chocolate chips and more Kentucky bourbon. Around the Bluegrass there is a thrill in the air on this day that makes you want to celebrate with local foods and flavors.

My links for the weekend are a bit of a hodgepodge of things I’ve collected over the past two weeks. My reading has been limited with my travel, but I’m finally starting to get around to all your great blogs again.

These are my recent favorites. I hope you enjoy them!

Eating Well Anywhere had a recipe for making your own pork sausage. I really enjoy sausage, but I dislike overly fatty varieties. I’m so glad to have this recipe and an idea of what kind of spices to use to create my own, lean version.

Discover the World of Artisan Beef had a helpful post if you are confused about grass-fed versus grass-finished beef. The more I have been reading about the topic the more confusing I have found the information so this post and the provided links really help to clear things up.

Our Best Bites had a great recipe for a healthier, baked version of Chicken Taquitos. I can’t wait to try these as soon as I get my hands on some tortillas.

Keeping with the Mexican food theme, Mexico: Food, Drinks & More provided a culturally rich post about the different varieties of bread common in Mexico. I’ve really enjoyed learning about breads in Brazil so all this info quickly caught my attention.

This yoga resource from Women’s Health came to my attention via Twitter last week. It is so helpful! It lists several varieties of yoga, what they are, who they are ideal for and things you should know before trying them out. If you find the world of yoga a bit overwhelming like I do you have to check it out!

Hot dogs and spaghetti? Here’s a little freaky food fun from a link my BIL sent me last week. You have to give them credit for creativity for sure.

Photo taken at a morning exercise session, Keeneland Race Course, Lexington, KY

cathy May 2, 2009 at 1:11 pm

Oh, I am LOL at the hot dogs and spaghetti link – and wondering if my kids would love it or find it too freaky to eat!

lesley May 2, 2009 at 2:58 pm

Ha, I do not know how anyone came up with putting spaghetti in hot dogs, that’s too funny!

Hope you’re having a great weekend : )

Heather May 2, 2009 at 5:41 pm

happy derby day to you, too! i also really enjoyed laura’s post on sausage 🙂

Reeni♥ May 2, 2009 at 5:45 pm

Happy Derby Day! Have a wonderful weekend!

Tangled Noodle May 2, 2009 at 6:43 pm

Let’s face it: the best part about Derby Day is the hats! 😎

The links are great – I enjoyed the one about Mexican breads but the spaghetti hot dogs were a hoot! Did you know that Filipino spaghetti is made with chopped up hot dogs (because ground beef is expensive)? So this would probably be a big hit there!

Amy May 3, 2009 at 6:39 pm

Agreed on the sausage! I just made tempeh sausage patties in class yesterday that were SO good. When you have access to tempeh let me know and I’ll give you some tips!

laura May 4, 2009 at 7:23 am

Thanks for the link! Also, I have to tell you, I read what you wrote about the pies, immediately Googled “Derby pie” and was so excited–I have a “Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie” recipe that we love for Thanksgiving. What a fun name for it and how wonderful to have another excuse to make it every May 🙂

Lori May 6, 2009 at 6:23 am

cathy – I have to admit it does look a little freaky. Maybe for Halloween? 🙂

lesley – I know I never would have thought to put them together in the first place, but then to insert the spaghetti dry?

Heather – Thanks! It was a great post for sure!

Reeni – Thanks!

Tangeled Noodle – The hats rock! I love taking a look at them and then try to guess the fortune some women spent on them. Ha, ha! There are some truly ugly ones out there.

So interesting about the hotdog spaghetti combo!

Amy – Thanks! That would be great to try too.

Laura – No problem, loved the post. So glad I could help with the Derby pie discovery. I like to add a little extra bourbon to mine. 😉

Shrimp and More Shrimp: Food in Florianópolis

Links to a Healthy Weekend

April 4, 2009

Happy Saturday! I hope it is a beautiful day wherever you are. The sun is shining bright here and the temperature is supposed to get near 90 F this weekend. Not exactly fall here yet, but I have my fingers crossed that soon we will have some cooler weather and it will stick around.

Here are a few things I found this week that I just had to pass on. One of them isn’t so positive, but is definitely worth mentioning. It will make you want to work even harder at spreading the word about healthy living.
See you next week!

Food Renegade had an inspiring interview with Nina Planck author of Real Food: What to Eat and Why. I especially liked reading the part about her journey from meat eater to vegan and then to a consumer of a natural diet incorporating animal products again. I haven’t read her book yet, but I will the first chance I get.

31 Flavors? Think outside the carton, homemade ice cream lovers was an article by David Lebovitz in the LA Times this week. His ideas really got the wheels turning in my head regarding homemade ice cream creativity. I loved the idea of using Greek yogurt.

My Year Without Sugar posted a recipe for Curry Squash Soup with some unique ingredients like spelt flour and apple juice. One thing that I’ve really enjoyed regarding produce selection in Brazil is that squash and pumpkin are year round foods here. I like being able to take advantage of the great flavors more than two months a year.

Here’s the not-so-positive one. The Fight for Fitness posted about the Fifth Third Burger that has popped up into the news recently. I think it is safe to say that most of us are disgusted by this. I mean, everything in moderation if you want an appropriately portioned burger, have it. I just don’t understand the need for people to come up with massive portions to prove the point that they can contradict healthy living.

I guess they just need a big pat on the back and a “good for you”. Unfortunately for them it is really quite easy to be unhealthy in our society so they aren’t proving much of anything. Eating real food that tastes good and is good for you is something worth being proud of.

VeggieGirl April 4, 2009 at 11:06 am

Yeah, that burger creation is definitely… different, haha 😉

Great links as always!! Thanks!!

lesley April 4, 2009 at 12:30 pm

That burger is horrible!

It’s about 60 and windy here today … I’d switch you if I could ; )

Tangled Noodle April 4, 2009 at 12:41 pm

A free t-shirt for feeling gross? That’s one trade I’ll pass up. Thanks for these links!

Reeni♥ April 4, 2009 at 4:59 pm

The burger! Over 4,000 calories! Ewww! On the other hand, a scoop of carrot cake ice cream sounds great! Have a wonderful weekend!

laura April 4, 2009 at 5:18 pm

Planck’s book is a good read, even if you don’t agree with everything she advocates. She’s thoughtful and articulate. Thanks for the link to her interview. Hope you get some cool weather soon.

Heather April 4, 2009 at 8:28 pm

great links and adorable pupster!

Daily Spud April 5, 2009 at 2:59 am

Thanks for the links Lori – I’m definitely going to get a hold of the Nina Planck book. As for that burger, the less said the better 🙁

Lori April 5, 2009 at 6:21 am

VeggieGirl – A very positive description. Ha, ha!

Lesley – You gotta a deal! 90s, sunny and no proper AC is getting pretty old for me. 🙁

Tangled Noodle – Yeah, I know. What a prize!

Reeni – I thought the same thing. Carrot cake ice cream sounds great!

laura – Thanks for you input about the book. I tend to find that with most health books. I usually don’t agree with everything, but can pull out a lot of helpful info despite that.

Heather – Thanks. She is cute, isn’t she? 🙂

Daily Spud – Agreed. Would love to know what you think when you read the book. I should be able to get a copy this summer.

Sapuche April 5, 2009 at 6:18 pm

Thanks for the great links. I’m interested in Nina Planck’s “Real Food.” I went from meat eater to vegetarian (~ 8 yrs) and back to meat eater again, and I’m curious to see what motivated her decisions. And, I totally agree with the last sentence of your post. Really, what’s to gain by eating massive portions of unhealthy food? Oh well. To each his/her own, I guess.

Mark April 6, 2009 at 10:32 am

Always good! Hope you enjoyed the weekend!

Selba April 6, 2009 at 7:55 pm

What a cute dog picture 🙂

Lori April 8, 2009 at 3:54 am

Sapuche – I have met a lot of people recently who have taken that journey from meat eater to vegetarian and back again. I find the many reasons and views so interesting. I’m looking forward to reading the book.

Mark – I did! I’m kind of late in replying b/c a new one is almost here. 🙂

Selba – Thanks for stopping by with your comment. I happen to think she’s pretty adorable, but I guess I’m biased being her mom. 🙂

More Brazilian Dessert: Canjica

Links to a Healthy Weekend

March 7, 2009

Happy weekend! I hope you are enjoying it. As always, there was so much great stuff out there to read this week. It looks like many of you are enjoying the first signs of spring. It is hot here and we are really looking forward to a little sign of fall and winter (being that winter here is like a beautiful fall in the mid-southern US).

Thank you for all the wonderful comments on the Blog Reading post this week. It was so great to have everyone’s input.

Now, some healthy reading for your weekend…

Food Magazines Begin to Consider Cooks’ Budgets was an article posted at the NYTimes this week. It was an interesting read about how the more upscale food magazines are adjusting their content to meet the needs of those who have found themselves with a little less money to spend on fancy meals.

Green Gigs shared the details of 7 Green Careers from Home. This was especially interesting to me since I work from home myself.

Delicious by Nature sparked my interest with a recipe for a homemade, dairy free Coconut Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. I had never thought of using coconut milk for a base in my ice cream maker, but I will be trying this.

Diet, Dessert and Dogs posted some outstanding meal-in-a-bowl ideas, some great discussion and recipes for her sauces. Almond curry or orange fig anyone?

Food Renegade is introducing Fight Back Fridays – a blog carnival of real foods. Even if you don’t participate it is surely going to be worth it to head over and check out the recipes of those who do. The first one is March 13.

Photo of Cape Meares, Oregon Coast

VeggieGirl March 7, 2009 at 8:44 am

Love the Delicious By Nature and Diet, Dessert, and Dogs blogs!!

Angie March 7, 2009 at 8:59 am

Thanks for the great links. I really enjoyed looking at the Food Renegade blog so far and even added it to my reader and followed them on Twitter. Looking forward to looking around at the rest.

Angie

http://www.losingitandlovingit.com/blog

greengirl March 7, 2009 at 9:02 am

Thank you for mentioning Green Gigs and I look forward to visiting the other sites as well!

Heather March 7, 2009 at 9:10 am

oh i like that first one! i am always looking for more budget friendly recipes!

Meg March 7, 2009 at 9:46 am

Thanks for the awesome links!

Lori March 7, 2009 at 10:31 am

Happy Saturday everyone! So glad you enjoyed the links this week.

greengirl – You are very welcome. I’ve really been enjoying your blog!

Ricki March 7, 2009 at 11:02 am

Great links–I will be trying coconut ice cream and will definitely check out the carnival! And thanks for the shout-out–glad you liked the bowls. 🙂

Amy March 7, 2009 at 12:04 pm

Thanks for the shout out! I am loving your blog and definitely need to check out that article on cooking on a budget!

Lori March 8, 2009 at 11:52 am

Amy – You are welcome! I loved that recipe!

Lori March 8, 2009 at 11:53 am

Ricki – I was inspired by them. 🙂 I can’t wait to give them a whirl.

gastroanthropologist March 9, 2009 at 8:33 am

Lori – I love your links! This week you’ve introduced me to 5 awesome blogs I haven’t come across yet!

Candice March 9, 2009 at 10:10 am

Thanks for the great links!

And thanks for the sweet comment. I am so excited for you and your house find! That’s so great! We still haven’t found anything that we feel sure about, but knowing you did gives me hope! Congrats! I hope to see some pictures once you get all moved in:)

Oh, and I left something for you on my blog.

FoodRenegade March 9, 2009 at 6:26 pm

Oh, thanks for getting the word out about Fight Back Fridays! I’m really looking forward to it and hope a lot of people participate. The more people who do, the more we ALL benefit. 🙂 And we can hopefully change the way America (and the industrialized world) eats — one forkful at a time.

Lori March 10, 2009 at 4:32 am

gastroanthro – Great! So glad I could pass on some new reads.

Candice – Thank you for the award! As for the house, we are still very much in the searching stage, but it is nice to at least have our eye on something.

Food Renegade – Glad to spread the word. I’m inspired by how passionate you are about what you do. 🙂

Awards and Some Words

Links to a Healthy Weekend

February 7, 2009

Great stuff out there this week. I’ve noticed there is a slight trend among food blogs towards all things chocolate. I wonder what holiday is coming up that would encourage that? I’m really looking forward to all the Valentine’s Day posts that are sure to come this week!

On to the links…

Savor the Thyme had a recipe for Almond, Flax & White Chocolate Nutella Dessert Pizza. You don’t even need to see the recipe or a picture to know that has to be amazing!

Passionate Eater had some beautiful pictures and information on where to get good eats in Zurich, Switzerland. Even if you have no plans to go there, you have see the pictures of the food! You might just book yourself a trip.

What Does Your Body Good? brings up an excellent topic this week – using rather unhealthy ways to raise funds for health-focused organizations. Stop over and tell her what you think.

Next week is Random Acts of Kindness week. How will you celebrate?

If you are looking for some new reads 100 Best Health and Nutrition Blogs for Athletes should give you plenty.

I also wanted to give a shout out regarding Twitter. I love it and it has become a substitute for office mates since I started working from home. Aside from some pretty hilarious people that make me laugh, I get great leads on posts and information.

I also like to share when I find great posts – like yours! If you are on Twitter please leave your info in the comments so I can follow you. Or, if you are so inclined you can follow me at http://twitter.com/lori1329 and I will reciprocate.

Enjoy your weekend!

VeggieGirl February 7, 2009 at 6:51 am

LOVE THE LINKS!!! 😀

lesley February 7, 2009 at 7:45 am

Thanks for the links! I’ve checked out a few so far and have really enjoyed them!

Hope you have a great weekend : )

dietdessertndogs February 7, 2009 at 8:44 am

Great links–thanks! And I’ve heard so much about Twitter but just can’t bring myself to create yet another account that requires checking and writing–I can barely keep up as it is!

Erica February 7, 2009 at 5:39 pm

look at that pretty litte girl 😉 I am checking out your twitter page now!

Meg February 7, 2009 at 8:18 pm

Thanks for the links!

Jennifer February 8, 2009 at 11:15 am

Hi-thank you so much for putting my chocolate pizza post on your blog….I am so glad I found your blog and get to read about a nutritionists point of view.

Lori February 8, 2009 at 12:05 pm

VeggieGirl – Thanks, glad you like them. 🙂

lesley – You are welcome, so glad you enjoyed them. 🙂

dietdessert – I know just what you mean. That is the reason I haven’t created a Facebook account yet. I’m not sure how much more social media I can handle. 🙂

Erica – I think she’s pretty cute, but as her mom I’m biased. 🙂

Meg – You are welcome!

Jennifer- Thanks. So glad you enjoy my blog. 🙂 I absolutely loved your pizza and just had to share.

Daily Spud February 8, 2009 at 4:18 pm

Gosh I’ve been meaning to set myself up on Twitter for ages – whenever I finally get around to it, I’ll be sure to follow you 🙂

Tangled Noodle February 8, 2009 at 7:07 pm

The weekend is almost over but I’m still lovin’ the links. And the portrait of a pug pup is adorable!

onlinepastrychef February 9, 2009 at 10:22 am

Thanks for being a clearinghouse for these great posts–I will go and check them all out! I love Twitter, too. I went and followed you, so I am looking forward to your tweets:)

lauren February 10, 2009 at 10:10 am

what a great link to the 100 best health and nutrition blogs for athletes…so cool! cant wait to check some out…

Balsamic Pasta and Rodizio Dining

Links to a Healthy Weekend

January 18, 2009

The links are a little late this weekend, but I liked them so much I had to get around to posting them. I kind of dropped off the face of the earth with posts in the middle of the week. I spent all day Thursday and Friday traveling back to Brazil. I’m here now and posting will get back to a true normal next week. I’ve got lots of good health and food info lined up, and cooking will start back up for me.

We stocked up at the supermarket yesterday and this morning we went to the feira (farmer’s market) for our produce. I miss home, but I’m so glad to be back to inexpensive produce! Here are a few pictures I took today as well as my stash of goodies for the week.

Now on to the links I enjoyed this week…

Pink Bites posted a recipe for my favorite soup in Brazil. Try some Caldo Verde if you need some warm comfort food this week.

Buff Chickpea is sharing all her lemon recipes with us. Lemon isn’t always my favorite, but after the holidays and all the heavy desserts, lemon can be light and refreshing. I loved the cookies she had up this week. Yum!

Daily Spud posted a simple and unique dessert recipe that meets just about every food and eating style imaginable. A great option for those of us trying to get back on track with healthy eating after the holidays.

cathy January 18, 2009 at 7:50 am

I am DROOLING at your pictures of mangos and watermelons. What I wouldn’t give to have some good, ripe watermelon right now or a mango that didn’t cost $2.

VeggieGirl January 18, 2009 at 7:59 am

Yes!! I was waiting for this post, as always, haha!! You know I love my dose of the “links to a healthy weekend” 🙂

Hope the weekend has been fabulous for you, Lori!!

Lori January 18, 2009 at 8:42 am

cathy – While I often complain about my lack of ingredients the produce (except for no blueberries or cranberries) is something I’ll never complain about. It is amazing. And the mangos are R$ 2 per kilo. So less than a dollar for 2.2 lbs. Crazy!!

VeggieGirl – So glad I’ve got you out there waiting. 🙂 You keep me on track. I knew I couldn’t pass it up this weekend. 🙂

Erica January 18, 2009 at 12:50 pm

Glad you made it back safe! The farmers market looks amazing- look at those mangos! Enjoy whats left of this weekend 😉

Daily Spud January 18, 2009 at 1:51 pm

Thanks for the mention Lori, much appreciated 🙂
Meanwhile I am jealous of your access to all of that fresh and inexpensive produce. Fresh mango has to be one of my favourites – not, alas, ever likely to be produced natively in Ireland though!

Hayley January 18, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Thank you so much for the link, it’s always nice to be in such good company. And that produce, I am sooo jealous! I can’t wait until Summer when all the farmer’s markets sprout back up again.

lesley January 18, 2009 at 7:51 pm

All that fresh produce looks SO good!! Yum!

I just recently discovered your blog but enjoyed the first “links to a healthy weekend” that I have read : )

Hope you have a great Monday!

gastroanthropologist January 19, 2009 at 4:29 am

That watermelon looks so good- as does the other produce. My local farmers market had some apples, pears, and root veggies. Nothing as colorful as what you have. I can’t wait for summer!

laura January 19, 2009 at 8:12 am

Glad you made it home (or home away from home) safe!

lauren January 19, 2009 at 8:49 am

beautiful fruits and veggies!

Lori January 19, 2009 at 9:15 am

Erica – Thanks! I’m glad to be back to blogging on a more regular basis and cooking too.

Daily Spud – I’m definitely trying to enjoy them while I can. We get a few from the coasts in the US, but nothing like what I can get here.

Hayley – It is always so interesting here. Even though the seasons barely change the fruit still has its high season. Right now it is the middle of summer here fruit can be found everywhere.

lesley – Thanks! I hope you have a great Monday as well.

gastroanth – Glad to hear you can still get a few things. One thing I can get here year round is squash like pumpkin and butternut and root veggies like manioc. I’ve learned to use them a lot lately.

Laura – Thanks! I’m working on catching up on everyone’s blogs now. 🙂

Lauren – It tastes as good as it looks, better really!

Tangled Noodle January 19, 2009 at 8:42 pm

I’m so late to all these posts! The feira looks so wonderful and I was happy to hear you tasted jackfruit from there. I can’t wait until the snow melts here in MN and our farmer’s markets are back in action. It’s summer in Brazil right now, isn’t it? [Sigh]

Lori January 20, 2009 at 2:27 am

Tangled Noodle – I know it sounds crazy, but I’m a bigger winter fan. Considering I live in Brazil sans beach, the summers are pretty miserable here with little to no AC. If I had a beach that might be a different story. 🙂 I am grateful for the amazing produce though.

Different Way to Get Your Chocolate

Links to a Healthy Weekend!

December 6, 2008

I hope this first weekend in December finds you well. I am doing the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell walk this morning with my mom and sister-in-law. I am looking forward to it, but definitely think warm thoughts for me!! I will be bundled up for sure.

Here are some of my favorites from this past week!

I just found Mindy’s Mouthful last week and I love it already. She is focused on the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg, France and all the wonderful foods. I have a travel goal to make it to a European Christmas market at some point in my life. Her pictures and highlights are beautiful!

Good Things Catered posted some amazing looking cookies this week. I love the combination of cranberry and orange and I can’t wait to give these a try.

Live Well 360 is doing a 30 days of oatmeal challenge. I thought the Key Lime Pie oatmeal was really original. I’d skip the stevia, but everything else sounds like a tasty combination.

Back in Skinny Jeans had a great post this week about magazine articles and covers. She made some fun and much better suggestions for titles. Some magazines need to get with the times regarding health, wellness and inner beauty.

VeggieGirl December 6, 2008 at 9:13 am

You KNOW I love these “Links to a Healthy Weekend” posts!!

Hooray for featuring Good Things Catered, especially – Katie is a baking genius!!

Erica December 6, 2008 at 10:30 am

I hope the walk went well and that you stayed nice and toasty!

Thanks (as always!!) for the great links.

Michelle December 6, 2008 at 7:15 pm

Hope you stayed warm! Thanks for the links! I am never organized enough to remember all the great sites I’ve been to…but I’m happy to visit yours!

Ricki December 6, 2008 at 10:42 pm

Thanks for the great links! Can’t wait to check out those cookies. 🙂

And thanks for your comment on my blog–much appreciated! I’ve added you to my Google Reader and will add your link to my blogroll when I update it, too. Now, I’m off to browse some more of your blog!

Lori December 7, 2008 at 9:09 pm

VeggieGirl – Thanks! I am so glad you enjoy them. Hopefully I’ll be back on track now and keep them coming. I had to take a break for a bit.

Erica and Michelle – Thanks! The walk was great, but it was sooooo cold. The course went by the river which made it even colder and windy! We made it though. 🙂

Ricki – Thanks for stopping by to comment. I’m definitely enjoying your blog!

10% Off at You Bar

Links to a Healthy Weekend

November 1, 2008

Happy November! I hope everyone is having a great weekend and recovering well from a night of Halloween fun.

There was some excellent reading this week around the web regarding food, health and wellness. These are a few of the things that I really enjoyed.

Fit Bottomed Girls reported on a new study released about the safety of Splenda. As you know, I gave it up a while back and I think as the results of these kinds of studies keep coming I’m going to grow more content with my decision.

The Discomfort Zone had an informative and entertaining guest post about the raw food diet. I learned quite a bit by reading it. While I eat a lot of raw foods I couldn’t go 100%, but I really enjoy learning about what works for other people.

The Art of Non-conformity offered a thought provoking and motivating post reflecting on the phrase “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” Need some inspiration this weekend? Definitely take a few minutes to read it.

This non-American Life is one of my favorite ex-pat blogs. This week she reported on her recent trip to Italy and has some photos of the amazing food she ate there. Don’t click the link if you are hungry! You can check out the rest of the blog for more beautiful photos of her travels.

From French Fries to Flaxseed had one of my favorite fall recipes of the week – Turkey Mushroom Shepard’s Pie. I liked the healthier spin with turkey and the use of white cheddar.

Photo of Cape Meares, Oregon coast

VeggieGirl November 1, 2008 at 4:55 am

Is it weird for me to admit that I look forward to your “inks to a healthy weekend” post EVERY weekend??? I seriously love all the helpful, fun, informative information that you provide!!! :0)

Lori November 1, 2008 at 8:29 am

I take it as a huge compliment. 🙂 Thanks!

So glad I can provide some helpful stuff. I like reading others links too. There is just so much good info out there sometimes it is too hard to search it out all on your own. I find the ones I read really helpful for finding new blogs. Glad I can do the same for others here. Enjoy your weekend!

Marianne November 1, 2008 at 11:12 am

Wow, what a honor to have my shepard’s pie recipe show up in your Links to a Healthy Weekend! I’m glad you enjoyed it – it’s just something I came up with after moving out onmy own and wanting to “jazz up” my mother’s old standard.

(can’t seem to log in through the open ID option on your blog though!)

Lori November 1, 2008 at 11:39 am

Hi marianne – Thanks for your comment. I loved the recipe. I just found your blog a couple weeks ago and really enjoy it.

Sorry about the log in problem. I’m not exactly sure what the issue is.

Chef E November 1, 2008 at 12:04 pm

I like reading what you write, it reminds me to cook healthier!

Meg November 1, 2008 at 6:21 pm

Thanks for all the links! Very helpful!

Lori November 2, 2008 at 6:26 am

Chef e – Hi! Thanks for your comment. Checked out your blogs. Love the pictures!

meg – Glad you liked them. 🙂 Have a great weekend.

Jenn November 2, 2008 at 9:20 am

I’m loving the blog design. I haven’t been around for the last few days and I usually read in Google Reader, so I may be behind the times, but me likey!

Thanks for the link love. It’s caused me to avoid Splenda, too!

Lori November 2, 2008 at 12:35 pm

Thanks, jenn! It is still growing on me. It takes a while to get used to, but I do like it better than my old one. 🙂 I appreciate the positive feedback!

Happy Halloween!

Links to a Healthy Weekend

October 4, 2008

Just a few this time around. One of them is from last week, but I thought it was worth mentioning. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather if you live in such places! This week was a bit on the frustrating side for me so I am looking forward to putting it behind me and starting a relaxing weekend.

The cost of healthy vs. junk food was always a topic of debate at my old job. Now some researchers have looked into it. Last week Stand Up & Eat from the Cooper’s Institute talked a bit about the Rising Cost of Low-Calorie Foods.

I first checked out Kevin’s blog a few weeks ago and he had just left for a trip to Greece. Needless to say, with my love of travel I’ve been anxiously awaiting a report upon his return. Check out Closet Cooking where he tells about his experiences including a donkey powered olive press and plenty of baklava.

I am loving all the new pumpkin recipes that seem to be popping up. Baking foods in the actual pumpkin is relatively new to me. This Pumpkin Packed with Bread and Cheese from Dorie Greenspan looks like an amazing addition to any Thanksgiving table.

VeggieGirl October 4, 2008 at 5:53 am

Great links!!

Cute pug :0)

Meg October 4, 2008 at 10:39 am

That pumpkin looks great!

Thanks for all the articles. Guess what…my husband works for Cooper and I didn’t even know that blog existed!

Kevin October 4, 2008 at 12:28 pm

I am looking forward to cooking with pumpkins/squash as well. I just picked some up at the farmers market today.

Lori October 5, 2008 at 7:44 am

veggiegirl – Thanks! She’s my baby. The pic is from a couple years ago when she was helping me rake some leaves. 🙂

meg – How cool! I had the opportunity to go to 2 of their research conferences and I loved them. They have such a beautiful campus there, too.

kevin – I made some pumpkin bars this weekend. I can’t wait to see what you cook up. 🙂

ChichaJo October 6, 2008 at 8:03 pm

I love pumpkins too 🙂 As for cooking things in them…I made some cream braised brussels sprouts, stuffed them in a small squash half, topped with cheese, and baked…it’s good! 🙂

Lori October 8, 2008 at 3:42 am

That sounds so great. Really creative too! I need to be more daring with my squash and pumpkin use. 🙂

The Great Sweetener Debate

Links to a Healthy Weekend

September 12, 2008

I hope everyone has a great weekend! These are some of the things I really enjoyed reading this week.

Tonic News Network had a great post about eating locally. It provides an interesting list as to why it is beneficial. My favorite one is Eating local is better for air quality and pollution than eating organic.

This is a big reason why I didn’t jump on the organic bandwagon when it was becoming so popular. People seemed to be buying organic and forgetting about the fact that it had to get to them in Indiana from California. I think there is much more awareness now though and things are changing to support local AND organic.

I am a Food Network addict. I haven’t been able to watch it a lot recently, but it used to be on constantly before we made our move. I enjoy Good Eats from time to time because I have a love of food science behind my nutrition/health/cooking exterior. Eat.Drink.Better. posted this week about how Alton Brown is going to focus his show more towards sustainable and local food choices. Can’t wait!!

Now, I’m a Google fan, would love the experience of working there some day just to see what all the hype is about. However, I have to admit that this post at That’s Fit made me a little queasy. I love the salty and savory breakfast combo, but it has to at least look appetizing. Just something to make you glad you are a healthy eater.

I just started reading Does This Blog Make Us Look Fat and I am loving it for a daily laugh. This post about reducing your consumption of beef products had me laughing out loud.

cathy September 12, 2008 at 11:29 am

Yet another reason to love Alton Brown! I have to say, that eating locally is so much easier in some places. It’s just hard to eat locally when you live in a non-agricultural area. Our bubble for what is considered local is so much bigger here in northern Wyoming than what it is in my old stomping grounds of Mississippi. I WANT to eat local, but I just can’t make the jump fully yet.

Lori September 12, 2008 at 11:57 am

I totally agree, cathy. It is incredibly difficult to do it 100%. I don’t think I’ll ever get to that point.

It is definitely dependant on where you are. In the winters in KY it is difficult to come by much in form of produce that is from nearby. Those warm weather, medium to bigger city folks have the advantage for sure.

VeggieGirl September 14, 2008 at 7:52 am

I love the philosophy of your blog!!!

Lori September 14, 2008 at 9:13 am

Hi veggiegirl – Thanks! I’m glad you stoppod by and commented. I’m looking forward to reading more of your blog as well.

Dan Estabrook September 14, 2008 at 6:36 pm

I’m glad that you enjoyed the article at TONIC News – come on by and visit again!

Dan, Editor

Lori September 15, 2008 at 3:35 am

Thanks, Dan. I definitely will. I’m becoming a regular. 🙂

Jell-No!

Links to a Healthy Weekend

August 10, 2008

I am hoping to incorporate this post on a weekly basis. Link posts seem to be very popular in the blogging world and there is an unbelievable amount of great food, nutrition and wellness blogs out there.

I enjoy getting tips for links from others so I thought I’d provide some of my own. I’m just beginning my quest to search through some of the great information on a regular basis.

This time around it is posting a bit later than I would like, but each weekend I hope to share with you some great posts that further support my quest here at Fake Food Free and promote overall wellness.

Enjoy a great sweet this weekend that incorporates some veggies too. Carrots ‘N’ Cake shares a recipe for Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies.
I really like the explanation of why cathy at A Life Less Sweet continues to keep white table sugar in her family’s diet during their quest to eliminate HFCS.
When I used to give presentations about physical activity for my past job I would always incorporate how our convenience-driven lifestyles and technology affected our daily calorie burn. Stand Up & Eat from the Cooper Institute address this issue with some calorie charts for comparison.

cathy August 10, 2008 at 11:56 am

Thanks for the link and the comment on my blog! I’m glad to have discovered yours and will definitely be back for more!

Lori August 10, 2008 at 4:41 pm

Hi cathy,

Thanks for your comment. I’m really enjoying your blog since we have a bit of a common interest.

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