Recently I've been learning a lot about the cause of most Western diseases such as obesity, CVD, diabetes and appendicitis. My two main sources of information have been Mercola.com and Gary Taubes book, Good Calories, Bad Calories.
My view on health and eating has been drastically changed. Dr. Mercola writes often about the dangers of sugar and refined carbohydrates and their effect on insulin.
Then I read Taubes' book and everything made sense to me. It was an Ah-Ha moment. But this was because there was actual fact and biochemical explanation behind the ideas.
To sum it all up, what I've learned has been that high insulin levels caused by too much sugar and carbohydrates in our body cause a defect in fat mobilization. Insulin in the bloodstream inhibits the release of fat from adipose tissue because it is a signal to those tissues that there is glucose in the bloodstream available for energy. Insulin also promotes the uptake of glucose into adipose tissue where it is converted to fat. This is a normal and necessary function. As we eat during the day, we have to store excess energy for those hours at night when we are sleeping and need that stored energy for metabolic processes.
The problem with this occurs when chronic overconsumption of refined carbs leads to the over secretion of insulin by the pancreas. This in turn leads to muscles and other tissues (except for the brain and adipose tissues, for the most part) becoming insulin resistant, requiring the pancreas to secreted even more insulin in response to carbohydrate ingestion. Therefore, glucose in the blood is quickly taken up by adipose tissue causing a quick drop in blood sugar leading to hypoglycemia. Normally at this point your fat cells should begin releasing fat for energy but high insulin levels in the blood inhibit this metabolism as previously mentioned.
To summarize, energy is essentially being trapped in fat cells while other tissues are being starved, leading to fatigue and decrease in energy. This cellular starvation causes us to be hungry and crave even more carbohydrates. And it continues in a vicious cycle.
Already knowing this was insulin's function, it's amazing I didn't recognize this effect and cause of obesity before now. Fat and protein do not cause such a spike in insulin levels and should be the primary macronutrients to consume when trying to lose weight. This allows the body to begin releasing energy from its own stores. Once fat metabolism is corrected by lower insulin levels, the body will begin to use its own energy, decreasing hunger as the body cannot tell the difference between energy released from adipose and energy ingested and absorbed by the gut.
This is only the basics of how insulin contributes to all of the chronic diseases that are plaguing developed countries.
I will continue to describe more effects of insulin, sugar and specifically fructose on metabolism and disease but I feel like this has been a good start.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Monday, April 2, 2012
April
I can't believe that it is already April. Today is also my half birthday. I only have 6 more months to be 21 years old. That's kind of scary. So this next month is going to be completely dedicated to myself. (Leah, stop making jokes.) I come first in April. I've recently discovered that I have a gluten sensitivity/intolerance so April will be about trying to figure out how to be gluten free and vegan without living on french fries. I'm also going to begin the Insanity workouts. I read recently that coffee an hour before exercise helps to give you energy and a more successful work out and that working out on an empty stomach also helps your metabolism to function at its very best. So my plan for the next month is to wake up quite early, drink ORGANIC fresh coffee and do some work and organizing for an hour before I do my Insanity exercise for the day. This is the plan.. This is what I want. Nothing is going to get in my way.
Also, in April I will return to cooking all of my food and enjoying healthy, organic vegetables.
On a more professional note. April is my last month of school. So I'm going to be focused to finish strong and not slack off as is normal for me at the end of Spring semester.
I'm also determined to get a job doing something medical. I have already applied to Medic so that I can hopefully get some phlebotomy practice. I only have one more weekend of volleyball so I will have a ton of free time after that to do all of the things that I want to do.
I'm going to relax, but I'm going to do it in a different manor. I'm going to be as productive as possible so that I will have much less to stress about. I think this is the only way to do it.
So, here's to April and here's to striving every day to be more of the person you want to be while always being the person you are.
Also, in April I will return to cooking all of my food and enjoying healthy, organic vegetables.
On a more professional note. April is my last month of school. So I'm going to be focused to finish strong and not slack off as is normal for me at the end of Spring semester.
I'm also determined to get a job doing something medical. I have already applied to Medic so that I can hopefully get some phlebotomy practice. I only have one more weekend of volleyball so I will have a ton of free time after that to do all of the things that I want to do.
I'm going to relax, but I'm going to do it in a different manor. I'm going to be as productive as possible so that I will have much less to stress about. I think this is the only way to do it.
So, here's to April and here's to striving every day to be more of the person you want to be while always being the person you are.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
What's been stopping me..
...from posting? I have no idea. But I've been so uninspired today that I'm compelled to post something. I've been stuck in a bit of a rut the past couple of days and I can't get out of it. (Maybe it's my vitamin D deficiency killing my mood). But what has really sparked my curiosity as I've been sulking all day is this:
The person I truly desire to be.
And more importantly:
What's keeping me from being that person?
I've always pitied the people who have not a clue what they want to do with their lives, what they are passionate about, and so forth. Not because I look down upon these people, but because I feel so blessed to have found my passion very early in life and to have family that has cultivated those passions and helped me to figure myself out.
But then it hit me. What's more sad, not having a direction and wandering aimlessly or knowing almost exactly where you want to go and simply not moving..??
I think that latter is worse, and perhaps that's what has me down.
So, that all-important question, what keeps us from doing the things we want to do, and being the person we want to be?
Some reasons/excuses could be very understandable: lack of skills, physically unable, financially unable, other responsibilities, other time commitments.
These seem like very reasonable things that get in the way of the person inside of use striving to be unleashed.
But, those things don't really seem to fit with me. What are the other things that keep me from being who I feel I was born to be?
I've questioned myself and the answers that come to my mind really aren't pleasant ones like: fear (of many things I'm sure), laziness, discipline, unfamiliarity, challenge, needing to be accepted, accepting I'm a bit different, lack of support, and the list probably goes on..
But, Leah once said, "Why waste your time doing anything that doesn't make you happy?"
This is so true. That also goes for wasting your time NOT doing things that DO make you happy.
So, I think for the next week or so, I'm going to get my life straight. I'm going to start being the person I want to be. It's true for me and probably most other people too, the person I want to be is a person who overcomes challenges and works hard. It's the hard work that attracts us, but also what drives us away.
I think support may be the one of the biggest things to accomplishing this. Support to begin and to continue. Also, self-respect. To love yourself enough to be yourself.
I was watching a clip of Ellen interviewing Lady Gaga today and Gaga says that she tries to spend 5 minutes everyone morning thinking compassionate thoughts about herself. Which is expressing love for yourself and the desire to alleviate any of the misfortune or distress in your life. So basically, spend a few minutes before you start your day loving yourself. Desire to alleviate distress from your life.
Give yourself compliments and encourage yourself to continue on to be who you are.
Try to find someone, or some outlet that you can tell of your accomplishments and reflect on your failures.
Live your life, love yourself. Interact with others and feed off of positive energy.
Be inspired. Be yourself.
*Born this way*
The person I truly desire to be.
And more importantly:
What's keeping me from being that person?
I've always pitied the people who have not a clue what they want to do with their lives, what they are passionate about, and so forth. Not because I look down upon these people, but because I feel so blessed to have found my passion very early in life and to have family that has cultivated those passions and helped me to figure myself out.
But then it hit me. What's more sad, not having a direction and wandering aimlessly or knowing almost exactly where you want to go and simply not moving..??
I think that latter is worse, and perhaps that's what has me down.
So, that all-important question, what keeps us from doing the things we want to do, and being the person we want to be?
Some reasons/excuses could be very understandable: lack of skills, physically unable, financially unable, other responsibilities, other time commitments.
These seem like very reasonable things that get in the way of the person inside of use striving to be unleashed.
But, those things don't really seem to fit with me. What are the other things that keep me from being who I feel I was born to be?
I've questioned myself and the answers that come to my mind really aren't pleasant ones like: fear (of many things I'm sure), laziness, discipline, unfamiliarity, challenge, needing to be accepted, accepting I'm a bit different, lack of support, and the list probably goes on..
But, Leah once said, "Why waste your time doing anything that doesn't make you happy?"
This is so true. That also goes for wasting your time NOT doing things that DO make you happy.
So, I think for the next week or so, I'm going to get my life straight. I'm going to start being the person I want to be. It's true for me and probably most other people too, the person I want to be is a person who overcomes challenges and works hard. It's the hard work that attracts us, but also what drives us away.
I think support may be the one of the biggest things to accomplishing this. Support to begin and to continue. Also, self-respect. To love yourself enough to be yourself.
I was watching a clip of Ellen interviewing Lady Gaga today and Gaga says that she tries to spend 5 minutes everyone morning thinking compassionate thoughts about herself. Which is expressing love for yourself and the desire to alleviate any of the misfortune or distress in your life. So basically, spend a few minutes before you start your day loving yourself. Desire to alleviate distress from your life.
Give yourself compliments and encourage yourself to continue on to be who you are.
Try to find someone, or some outlet that you can tell of your accomplishments and reflect on your failures.
Live your life, love yourself. Interact with others and feed off of positive energy.
Be inspired. Be yourself.
*Born this way*
Friday, January 20, 2012
21 Day Vegan Kickstart
http://pcrm.org/kickstarthome/
All the recipes are free. You can download a weekly grocery list. And there's a ton of nutritional information on their site. Props to Kris Carr and PCRM (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine).
All the recipes are free. You can download a weekly grocery list. And there's a ton of nutritional information on their site. Props to Kris Carr and PCRM (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine).
Thursday, January 19, 2012
It has been forever.
Sorry I have been MIA. School has started back and I'm struggling finding time to finish the tasks that I need to, much less the ones I simply want to do.
I haven't cooked anything all week. It has been simply leftovers and such.
Hopefully I'll be able to make some food tonight to maybe post about later.
My first volleyball tournament is this weekend and I'm super excited about it.
I have so much homework to do all the time! I'm not really sure what to do about it.
This has just been a brief rant. There was absolutely no point to my post, but oh well.. it's just a reflection about how scattered my brain is right now..
I need some meditation.. but who has the time?
I haven't cooked anything all week. It has been simply leftovers and such.
Hopefully I'll be able to make some food tonight to maybe post about later.
My first volleyball tournament is this weekend and I'm super excited about it.
I have so much homework to do all the time! I'm not really sure what to do about it.
This has just been a brief rant. There was absolutely no point to my post, but oh well.. it's just a reflection about how scattered my brain is right now..
I need some meditation.. but who has the time?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Colorful Diet
Following up on an earlier post about colored rubber bands/bracelets, I have finally gotten some. My friend gave me a set yesterday. They are just thin plastic bracelets. There are five colors: Purple, red, orange, yellow, and green. I have assigned each color a specific food group...
Purple (Protein): This would be a serving of beans, nuts, or a soy food.
Red (Fruit): Any serving of fresh fruit.
Orange (Vegetable): A serving of veggies!!!
Yellow (Whole Grain): Oatmeal, quinoa, whole grain rice.. you know, the fiber stuff.
Green (Green, leafy vegetable): Yes! Another vegetable!! I love my veggies. I want to make sure I'm getting more green than I normally do.
The whole idea is to start all of the bracelets on one wrist and as you eat a serving of a category, movie is to the other wrist. So, this morning I had all of them on my right arm. I had oatmeal and grapefruit for breakfast so I moved the red and the yellow to my left arm. I know that I'm eating a lot of grilled veggies and a quinoa and bean dip tonight, so I decided to get some green veggies in for lunch. About half of a bunch of asparagus.
Basically, these are just reminders not to let junk take the place of foods that I need every day. Like yesterday, I decided to have a salad instead of a calzone or pizza or a bread sandwich because I was lacking my leafy greens for the day.
This also seems like an easy reminder. It's visual and it's always right there with you.
Also, if I eat more than one serving of a group, I just move it back to the other wrist.
It's not difficult to eat a healthy, colorful diet. All you may need is a reminder.
Purple (Protein): This would be a serving of beans, nuts, or a soy food.
Red (Fruit): Any serving of fresh fruit.
Orange (Vegetable): A serving of veggies!!!
Yellow (Whole Grain): Oatmeal, quinoa, whole grain rice.. you know, the fiber stuff.
Green (Green, leafy vegetable): Yes! Another vegetable!! I love my veggies. I want to make sure I'm getting more green than I normally do.
The whole idea is to start all of the bracelets on one wrist and as you eat a serving of a category, movie is to the other wrist. So, this morning I had all of them on my right arm. I had oatmeal and grapefruit for breakfast so I moved the red and the yellow to my left arm. I know that I'm eating a lot of grilled veggies and a quinoa and bean dip tonight, so I decided to get some green veggies in for lunch. About half of a bunch of asparagus.
Basically, these are just reminders not to let junk take the place of foods that I need every day. Like yesterday, I decided to have a salad instead of a calzone or pizza or a bread sandwich because I was lacking my leafy greens for the day.
This also seems like an easy reminder. It's visual and it's always right there with you.
Also, if I eat more than one serving of a group, I just move it back to the other wrist.
It's not difficult to eat a healthy, colorful diet. All you may need is a reminder.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Great new find!
So, I've been meaning to grab some non-dairy yogurt at Earth Fare for a couple weeks and yesterday I finally made it to that section of the store.. and I happened upon a great product!
It's yogurt made from almond milk! I should have known that this wonderful thing existed but I just never saw it. I try not to eat a lot of soy products (I mainly stick to tempeh and the occasional bit of tofu) and so I was thrilled to discover amande's cultured almond milk. I've never really liked the taste of yogurt because of that soured taste and most of them are overly sweetened. But this yogurt is very mild and doesn't have that awkward taste. I absolutely love it. And I'm so glad because I really want to add the benefits of the live active cultures to my diet to help with my digestive system.
I haven't been feeling very well the past two days and so Ben is coming over later to make some veggie soup with me because that is all anyone ever wants when they are under the weather.
I am so glad to have someone so wonderful in my life. <3 He is so good to me, and we have so much fun together. It has been a long time since I've laughed so often. I really appreciate his curiosity for my vegan diet. He is eating completely vegan for this entire week, without any prompting by me. Next week we are going to start a half marathon training program. And I'm really hoping to get back into the routine of exercising, and we are both dedicated to making it happen. After playing volleyball on Sunday and being sore for so long afterward, I realized how out of shape I really have become.
No matter what stresses I have in my life (school, sickness, work), I can still say that I have never been happier. I'm always trying to improve myself and my life, but my emotional state has never been more stable and positive.
Be thankful, be active, be healthy, be happy.
It's yogurt made from almond milk! I should have known that this wonderful thing existed but I just never saw it. I try not to eat a lot of soy products (I mainly stick to tempeh and the occasional bit of tofu) and so I was thrilled to discover amande's cultured almond milk. I've never really liked the taste of yogurt because of that soured taste and most of them are overly sweetened. But this yogurt is very mild and doesn't have that awkward taste. I absolutely love it. And I'm so glad because I really want to add the benefits of the live active cultures to my diet to help with my digestive system.
I haven't been feeling very well the past two days and so Ben is coming over later to make some veggie soup with me because that is all anyone ever wants when they are under the weather.
I am so glad to have someone so wonderful in my life. <3 He is so good to me, and we have so much fun together. It has been a long time since I've laughed so often. I really appreciate his curiosity for my vegan diet. He is eating completely vegan for this entire week, without any prompting by me. Next week we are going to start a half marathon training program. And I'm really hoping to get back into the routine of exercising, and we are both dedicated to making it happen. After playing volleyball on Sunday and being sore for so long afterward, I realized how out of shape I really have become.
No matter what stresses I have in my life (school, sickness, work), I can still say that I have never been happier. I'm always trying to improve myself and my life, but my emotional state has never been more stable and positive.
Be thankful, be active, be healthy, be happy.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Not Enough Time
It is so true that there are not enough hours in the day. So, how do we experience and enjoy all that we want to do while still accomplishing the tasks that we need to? I have yet to figure it out. I notice it more times than others, like when cramming for an exam, not having enough time to make proper meals, and failing to set aside time to exercise. But I especially notice it around the holidays. I love the holiday season and I want to do so much, like decorate, enjoy the weather and festivities, make holiday food, and other such things. When the season goes by and these things aren't done, I always wonder where the time went..
So, I'm going to try something new to be more productive. I'm going to wake up early, every morning. I'm going to drink a glass of water while I make my coffee or tea and make a list of all the things I want to do and need to do and make a quick priority list. Then I'm going to start doing things. First on the list every morning should be taking a 30 minute walk to start my day and get my blood flowing. Then it's breakfast. I want that to be my routine. I've heard it takes 21 days (3 weeks) to start or quit a habit. So for the next 21 days, whether I feel like it or not, I'm dedicated to this routine. Then, I'll have something extra to be extra grateful on Thanksgiving.
There are more things that I want to add to my daily life but I think I'm just going to start with this.
Baby steps, people.
So, I'm going to try something new to be more productive. I'm going to wake up early, every morning. I'm going to drink a glass of water while I make my coffee or tea and make a list of all the things I want to do and need to do and make a quick priority list. Then I'm going to start doing things. First on the list every morning should be taking a 30 minute walk to start my day and get my blood flowing. Then it's breakfast. I want that to be my routine. I've heard it takes 21 days (3 weeks) to start or quit a habit. So for the next 21 days, whether I feel like it or not, I'm dedicated to this routine. Then, I'll have something extra to be extra grateful on Thanksgiving.
There are more things that I want to add to my daily life but I think I'm just going to start with this.
Baby steps, people.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
It's Autumn!
And you know what that means!!
...
APPLE BUTTER!!!!
I bought my first jar of apple butter from the farmers' market yesterday. Mmm. : ] Happy place.
So, I woke up early this morning and made muffins so I could slather them with delicious apple goodness. Complete with coffee, it was the great start to my morning. It fueled me for my test and put me in a great mood for the day.
Today should be just splendid. After class I'm going to take advantage of the 25% off bulk items sale at Earth Fare in addition to my 5% student discount. I need to get some oatmeal, beans, nuts, and such. Then I get to pick up my CSA veggies from the UT Gardens farmers' market. I'll probably make some eggplant and rice stir fry for dinner just because it's easy, delicious and I have lots of Japanese eggplant left from my CSA.
I've been thinking of a wish list since the holidays are coming up and of course I can only think of cookbooks that I want!! Haha. I feel like I'm missing out on a bit of vegan culture since I don't own Veganomicon. But I was also reading a review of Super Immunity the other day by the same author of Eat to Live. These books sound great to me, being a health food vegan and all.
Speaking of health food.. I noticed one of my friends and fellow nutrition majors wearing five colored bracelets the other day. They were red, yellow, green, orange, and blue. She wore all five on once wrist at the start of the day and said she moves one to the other wrist each time she eats a serving of fruit or vegetables. I thought that was genius. Its a very good reminder. I don't really like to eat a lot of fruit but I would love to implement the idea to remind me to get different colored veggies and to do other things that I want to get into the habit of doing daily, like stretching before bed and various exercises.
I think I may go buy some colored rubber bands and try that method out for a while. I'll let you know how it works for me. It's kind of like tying strings to your fingers as a reminder.
...
APPLE BUTTER!!!!
I bought my first jar of apple butter from the farmers' market yesterday. Mmm. : ] Happy place.
So, I woke up early this morning and made muffins so I could slather them with delicious apple goodness. Complete with coffee, it was the great start to my morning. It fueled me for my test and put me in a great mood for the day.
Today should be just splendid. After class I'm going to take advantage of the 25% off bulk items sale at Earth Fare in addition to my 5% student discount. I need to get some oatmeal, beans, nuts, and such. Then I get to pick up my CSA veggies from the UT Gardens farmers' market. I'll probably make some eggplant and rice stir fry for dinner just because it's easy, delicious and I have lots of Japanese eggplant left from my CSA.
I've been thinking of a wish list since the holidays are coming up and of course I can only think of cookbooks that I want!! Haha. I feel like I'm missing out on a bit of vegan culture since I don't own Veganomicon. But I was also reading a review of Super Immunity the other day by the same author of Eat to Live. These books sound great to me, being a health food vegan and all.
Speaking of health food.. I noticed one of my friends and fellow nutrition majors wearing five colored bracelets the other day. They were red, yellow, green, orange, and blue. She wore all five on once wrist at the start of the day and said she moves one to the other wrist each time she eats a serving of fruit or vegetables. I thought that was genius. Its a very good reminder. I don't really like to eat a lot of fruit but I would love to implement the idea to remind me to get different colored veggies and to do other things that I want to get into the habit of doing daily, like stretching before bed and various exercises.
I think I may go buy some colored rubber bands and try that method out for a while. I'll let you know how it works for me. It's kind of like tying strings to your fingers as a reminder.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Feeling Foodie
It has been a while since I've posted. I would apologize but I can honestly say I'm not sorry about anything that has happened this past few weeks. I've been having a great time and can't believe that I just am happier with my life each and every day.
I have been cooking a lot more now that I am not working quite so much and I don't have to just cook for myself anymore. Making food is so much more rewarding when you get to share it with someone, especially when it's a healthy meal.
I've been trying to make new things and also bringing out some of my favorite recipes to share with Ben. Last week I made my favorite dish, Spicy Almond Stir Fry, which is now Ben's favorite dish. Even though the recipe is not mine, it still makes me glad to hear Ben say it's the best thing he's ever tasted. We also made a sweet potato lentil soup last Friday with a bunch of veggies all that had been harvested no more than a week prior. The best part about it may definitely have been the fresh celery that I bought that day from the farmers' market. It was a beautiful dark green and had the best aroma I've ever experienced from a vegetable. It was so disappointing when I had to buy celery from the grocery store yesterday, even though it is organic and still really good. It just doesn't compare.
Last week I got a HUGE butternut squash in my CSA box. Actually, it was so big that it was halved. So, yesterday I roasted that with some of the many yams that I have and made a Yam and Squash Curry soup from The Everyday Vegan. I paired it with wild rice and enjoyed the punch of nutrition it gave me. I'm not sure if you've ever noticed how much heat squash and sweet potatoes hold but I splashed some of my soup onto my wrist and I think I may have a 2nd degree burn from it. Okay, maybe that was an exaggeration, but it was definitely painful.
I really was into the cooking mood yesterday and made some Apple-Hemp Muffins after work. I have been meaning to make muffins for a long time because it has been such a struggle for me to wake up in time to make oatmeal for breakfast so I've been skipping breakfast (my nutritionist side yells at me every time I do). So I finally got some healthy muffins made so I have something to grab and take with me in the mornings.
Tonight is going to be another Stir Fry night but it will be Broccoli and Cashew Stir Fry. I have some gorgeous broccoli from my CSA and some peppers, also. It's so nice to have a boyfriend that is so excited about all of the vegan food I make. I've never met an omni that voluntarily eats so many vegan meals (he eats tofu more than I do!).
I'm also going to cook up some Chipotle Two-Bean Hummus tonight to spread on some AWESOME bread I bought yesterday from the farmers' market. I have some tomatoes and greens that I need to just plop on a sandwich so they don't go bad first.
I have a bunch of eggplant still so I think tomorrow will be a day for some of that spicy eggplant dish that I make. It's really simple but I do love it. And Japanese eggplant is absolutely delish.
I'm so glad to be able to cook more these days. I was really missing being in my kitchen and having freshly prepared meals to eat. I love the pizza and sandwiches Ben makes me at Mellow but some local, fresh veggie meals just can't be topped.
: ]
On a non-food note, today is going to be awesome with some Disney movies, wine night with the girls, seeing a show downtown, and picking up my new bag that I bought. Also, I'm pumped to see my daddy even though my mommy won't be home and I can't see her until Friday night.
All in all.. my life is stupendous, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Well, off to do some homework so I can have a carefree evening when I'm done with classes today.
Enjoy the cool, rainy day. : ]
I have been cooking a lot more now that I am not working quite so much and I don't have to just cook for myself anymore. Making food is so much more rewarding when you get to share it with someone, especially when it's a healthy meal.
I've been trying to make new things and also bringing out some of my favorite recipes to share with Ben. Last week I made my favorite dish, Spicy Almond Stir Fry, which is now Ben's favorite dish. Even though the recipe is not mine, it still makes me glad to hear Ben say it's the best thing he's ever tasted. We also made a sweet potato lentil soup last Friday with a bunch of veggies all that had been harvested no more than a week prior. The best part about it may definitely have been the fresh celery that I bought that day from the farmers' market. It was a beautiful dark green and had the best aroma I've ever experienced from a vegetable. It was so disappointing when I had to buy celery from the grocery store yesterday, even though it is organic and still really good. It just doesn't compare.
Last week I got a HUGE butternut squash in my CSA box. Actually, it was so big that it was halved. So, yesterday I roasted that with some of the many yams that I have and made a Yam and Squash Curry soup from The Everyday Vegan. I paired it with wild rice and enjoyed the punch of nutrition it gave me. I'm not sure if you've ever noticed how much heat squash and sweet potatoes hold but I splashed some of my soup onto my wrist and I think I may have a 2nd degree burn from it. Okay, maybe that was an exaggeration, but it was definitely painful.
I really was into the cooking mood yesterday and made some Apple-Hemp Muffins after work. I have been meaning to make muffins for a long time because it has been such a struggle for me to wake up in time to make oatmeal for breakfast so I've been skipping breakfast (my nutritionist side yells at me every time I do). So I finally got some healthy muffins made so I have something to grab and take with me in the mornings.
Tonight is going to be another Stir Fry night but it will be Broccoli and Cashew Stir Fry. I have some gorgeous broccoli from my CSA and some peppers, also. It's so nice to have a boyfriend that is so excited about all of the vegan food I make. I've never met an omni that voluntarily eats so many vegan meals (he eats tofu more than I do!).
I'm also going to cook up some Chipotle Two-Bean Hummus tonight to spread on some AWESOME bread I bought yesterday from the farmers' market. I have some tomatoes and greens that I need to just plop on a sandwich so they don't go bad first.
I have a bunch of eggplant still so I think tomorrow will be a day for some of that spicy eggplant dish that I make. It's really simple but I do love it. And Japanese eggplant is absolutely delish.
I'm so glad to be able to cook more these days. I was really missing being in my kitchen and having freshly prepared meals to eat. I love the pizza and sandwiches Ben makes me at Mellow but some local, fresh veggie meals just can't be topped.
: ]
On a non-food note, today is going to be awesome with some Disney movies, wine night with the girls, seeing a show downtown, and picking up my new bag that I bought. Also, I'm pumped to see my daddy even though my mommy won't be home and I can't see her until Friday night.
All in all.. my life is stupendous, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Well, off to do some homework so I can have a carefree evening when I'm done with classes today.
Enjoy the cool, rainy day. : ]
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Back Down to Earth
I've been floating in the clouds lately. I've been having a great time and enjoying my life so much the past couple weeks. However, it's time to get back to my school work and such before I get into a big whole. I've been pretty unmotivated to study for the past week or two and after being out of practice of studying, my focus has been slacking hard core.
But, tonight I got the motivation that I needed to bring me back to center and remind me that I'm striving toward a goal, one that is noble and will help other people.
One of my co-workers came up to me and asked if I would like to buy a soy candle to help her and her sister raise money to pay for her mom's funeral, who is sick with cancer. She was given 3 months to live and has only about a month remaining from that prediction. Hearing her ask for help burying her mom really made my heart ache. I plan to buy a few candles and help her raise money, but I also gave her the we site for the Gerson Institute and told her that she really needs to look up their treatment. Hopefully people will be helping to pay for funding for her mother becoming well, rather than for her funeral.
I have been thinking a lot about how I want to approach my entry into med school. I've been considering waiting until later than April to take the MCAT like I had planned and then perhaps getting a job and some experience in the medical field before applying to help with gaining acceptance. I would really love to intern or something at the Gerson Institute or in some treatment facility. I could find a Gerson satellite to intern at. I have also thought about going ahead and getting my RD so I have another credential to help pad my application. I just really want to do this right. I want to take the MCAT when I'm ready for it. I want to apply to med school feeling as confident as possible. And I want to get some extra real world experience before I'm again stuck with my nose in a book for another four intense years of school.
So, I'm again seriously contemplating important steps in my life that will hopefully lead me to where I want to be.
Step one I accomplished tonight: I put in my 2 weeks at the Rush. Regular sleep may be a real part of my life again very soon.
Step two: Get caught up in all of my classes and continue to make good grades on my exams.
Step three: Develop relationships that will help with me gain good references.
Step four: Research to keep my interest sparked and passion fueled.
Fun may be put on hold for little while but I can say, I don't think there are many circumstances that can make me feel less than the happiest girl in the world. : ]
Stay healthy. For more than just yourself.
But, tonight I got the motivation that I needed to bring me back to center and remind me that I'm striving toward a goal, one that is noble and will help other people.
One of my co-workers came up to me and asked if I would like to buy a soy candle to help her and her sister raise money to pay for her mom's funeral, who is sick with cancer. She was given 3 months to live and has only about a month remaining from that prediction. Hearing her ask for help burying her mom really made my heart ache. I plan to buy a few candles and help her raise money, but I also gave her the we site for the Gerson Institute and told her that she really needs to look up their treatment. Hopefully people will be helping to pay for funding for her mother becoming well, rather than for her funeral.
I have been thinking a lot about how I want to approach my entry into med school. I've been considering waiting until later than April to take the MCAT like I had planned and then perhaps getting a job and some experience in the medical field before applying to help with gaining acceptance. I would really love to intern or something at the Gerson Institute or in some treatment facility. I could find a Gerson satellite to intern at. I have also thought about going ahead and getting my RD so I have another credential to help pad my application. I just really want to do this right. I want to take the MCAT when I'm ready for it. I want to apply to med school feeling as confident as possible. And I want to get some extra real world experience before I'm again stuck with my nose in a book for another four intense years of school.
So, I'm again seriously contemplating important steps in my life that will hopefully lead me to where I want to be.
Step one I accomplished tonight: I put in my 2 weeks at the Rush. Regular sleep may be a real part of my life again very soon.
Step two: Get caught up in all of my classes and continue to make good grades on my exams.
Step three: Develop relationships that will help with me gain good references.
Step four: Research to keep my interest sparked and passion fueled.
Fun may be put on hold for little while but I can say, I don't think there are many circumstances that can make me feel less than the happiest girl in the world. : ]
Stay healthy. For more than just yourself.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Birthday Blog
I very well could be the happiest gal in the entire world. : ]
Not only have the last two weeks been extremely wonderful, I couldn't really have asked for a better birthday. Last night started with one of the best presents anyone could give me... a big floppy hat with a bow on it. It was from the new special someone in my life. He's so sweet. <3 Then I got to go out with some new friends, some old friends and my favorite friend of all... my daddy. We had a couple drinks, some laughs, and a good time.
This morning I woke up early and I couldn't have asked for better weather. Brisk, fall morning. Ben and I went to Panera for pumpkin spice lattes and sat out in the sunlight and shared memories of when we were kids. Afterward we went to Victor Ashe park to walk around outside and enjoy nature a bit. I stood inside a tree that was hollowed by a strike of lightning and we saw some squirrels cuddle (promptly followed by unmentionable deeds), and jammed out to Goo Goo Dolls and Matchbox 20 all before noon.
I loved spending the rest of the day with Ben and my family watching the Bears game at a bar I'm legally allowed in now, and then having a margarita with my mom at dinner with the rest of my family. I really missed my sister and her husband being there, but was glad to have the people around me that could be here.
Now I'm just drinking tea and playing on my new MacBook Pro reflecting on my life a little and how blessed and happy I am. I do wish everyone could feel like I do right now. The world would be such a nicer place.
I can honestly say I'm madly in love with my life and can only hope that it continues to improve.
Not only have the last two weeks been extremely wonderful, I couldn't really have asked for a better birthday. Last night started with one of the best presents anyone could give me... a big floppy hat with a bow on it. It was from the new special someone in my life. He's so sweet. <3 Then I got to go out with some new friends, some old friends and my favorite friend of all... my daddy. We had a couple drinks, some laughs, and a good time.
This morning I woke up early and I couldn't have asked for better weather. Brisk, fall morning. Ben and I went to Panera for pumpkin spice lattes and sat out in the sunlight and shared memories of when we were kids. Afterward we went to Victor Ashe park to walk around outside and enjoy nature a bit. I stood inside a tree that was hollowed by a strike of lightning and we saw some squirrels cuddle (promptly followed by unmentionable deeds), and jammed out to Goo Goo Dolls and Matchbox 20 all before noon.
I loved spending the rest of the day with Ben and my family watching the Bears game at a bar I'm legally allowed in now, and then having a margarita with my mom at dinner with the rest of my family. I really missed my sister and her husband being there, but was glad to have the people around me that could be here.
Now I'm just drinking tea and playing on my new MacBook Pro reflecting on my life a little and how blessed and happy I am. I do wish everyone could feel like I do right now. The world would be such a nicer place.
I can honestly say I'm madly in love with my life and can only hope that it continues to improve.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Reflections on Progress
Looking back at the resolutions I made for myself for this year, I find that I've more or less realized my goals. To recap...
This year I resolve to:
~Practice a vegan diet and eat more salads
~Buy organic when possible
~Drink more tea, less coffee
~Cook more with variety
~Research and Learn
+ Ask questions
+ Read
+ Converse
+ Explore
+ Listen
~Create
~Dance
~Build new relationships and strengthen old ones
~Focus on family
~Live actively, not idly
I can't even begin to describe how much things like dancing and spending a good amount of time interacting with people will change your mood. I'm not sure I've ever been happier that I am right now, and I have felt this way for a good while. I always feel like things can improve in every situation, so as my 21st birthday approaches (Sunday!! Hurray!!) there are a few things that I feel would enhance my quality of life. However, instead of making a bunch of resolutions for this year, I have decided to make just one very serious commitment.
I'm making a commitment to myself to really pursue happiness in all aspects of my life; to avoid situations and circumstances that create anxiety, stress, or bad feelings; and to maintain a balance between responsibility and liberty.
I know some of the things that keep me sane and balanced.
- Stretching every night before bed
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating well
- Talking with good friends
- Spending time with family
- Interacting with nature
- Nurse my passion
It will be a little tougher staying committed to avoid the stressors in my life that are unnecessary.
- Overeating
- Procrastinating
- Clutter
- Lack of sleep
And in addition to all of that, I'd like to explore and learn about new things, places, and people. We are in this world to interact with who or what is around us. This is what makes life interesting and be having positive relationships with our environment, our lives can be a little more carefree. However, though it seems as though some of my commitments are to others such as my family and my friends, in the end these are just commitments to myself to lead the happiest, most fulfilled life, because at the end of the day, the only thing that is really important in my world is my own happiness... and I am the only one that is responsible for creating it.
Express your right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
This year I resolve to:
~Practice a vegan diet and eat more salads
~Buy organic when possible
~Drink more tea, less coffee
~Cook more with variety
~Research and Learn
+ Ask questions
+ Read
+ Converse
+ Explore
+ Listen
~Create
~Dance
~Build new relationships and strengthen old ones
~Focus on family
~Live actively, not idly
I can't even begin to describe how much things like dancing and spending a good amount of time interacting with people will change your mood. I'm not sure I've ever been happier that I am right now, and I have felt this way for a good while. I always feel like things can improve in every situation, so as my 21st birthday approaches (Sunday!! Hurray!!) there are a few things that I feel would enhance my quality of life. However, instead of making a bunch of resolutions for this year, I have decided to make just one very serious commitment.
I'm making a commitment to myself to really pursue happiness in all aspects of my life; to avoid situations and circumstances that create anxiety, stress, or bad feelings; and to maintain a balance between responsibility and liberty.
I know some of the things that keep me sane and balanced.
- Stretching every night before bed
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating well
- Talking with good friends
- Spending time with family
- Interacting with nature
- Nurse my passion
It will be a little tougher staying committed to avoid the stressors in my life that are unnecessary.
- Overeating
- Procrastinating
- Clutter
- Lack of sleep
And in addition to all of that, I'd like to explore and learn about new things, places, and people. We are in this world to interact with who or what is around us. This is what makes life interesting and be having positive relationships with our environment, our lives can be a little more carefree. However, though it seems as though some of my commitments are to others such as my family and my friends, in the end these are just commitments to myself to lead the happiest, most fulfilled life, because at the end of the day, the only thing that is really important in my world is my own happiness... and I am the only one that is responsible for creating it.
Express your right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Equilibrium
There isn't really any object of this post, I just have a spare minute and haven't posted in a while. My life has calmed down a little bit and I'm starting to get back to an equilibrium. I love how life is, we have crazy moments and disturbances but there's always a way to get back to center.
What do you do to realign yourself whenever you're feeling out of whack?
The other night before heading to work I felt as though I were going to have an anxiety attack. Not for any particular reason, I just was stressed and not right. So, I made a constructive list of things I needed to do to bring myself back to happiness and equilibrium.
First thing was to clean. When my environment is cluttered, it's hard to escape stress since it just adds to it. I vacuumed the house, cleaned my room, the kitchen, the living room and did my laundry. Immediately feeling better.
The I knew I needed to do something creative to stimulate my brain but in a different way than my usually studying and homework. (That's another reason I like this blog, it does that for me a little bit.) So, after cleaning up I hung some shoe boxes up in my room to add a little flair to my decor. I got out some old art pieces from high school to hang as well.
Whenever I'm stressed, one of the first things I examine is my physical well being, since all emotion and thought stems from chemical reactions in your body, improper balances of nutrients can really make someone a nut job. So, I have been really focused on eating at regular intervals and eating a normal breakfast, something I have recently gotten away from doing. I made some coconut curry, bought some bread and have been eating well.
I also have made the commitment to do some exercise everyday. It doesn't need to be a killer workout, just a short job to break a sweat and get my blood pumping. I believe that my qi was not flowing properly and so going for a jog really has helped that.
Also, instead of exercising inside, I've been jogging outside, in the sunlight and the fresh air. I've been really detached from the earth since school started back up and I think that has really taken a toll on my ability to see my life from a distant perspective. So, after my jog, I pick a tree and, yes, give it a big hug. : ]
Instantly light-hearted. You can't hug a tree and still be in a seriously down mood afterward. It's just not possible.
There are still some more things that I need to do in order to gain more satisfaction with my life but at the moment I've feeling peachy keen.
Picking up my CSA today. Making a healthy dinner this evening. Going to see Lion King in 3D tonight.
My day couldn't look any better.
What do you do to realign yourself whenever you're feeling out of whack?
The other night before heading to work I felt as though I were going to have an anxiety attack. Not for any particular reason, I just was stressed and not right. So, I made a constructive list of things I needed to do to bring myself back to happiness and equilibrium.
First thing was to clean. When my environment is cluttered, it's hard to escape stress since it just adds to it. I vacuumed the house, cleaned my room, the kitchen, the living room and did my laundry. Immediately feeling better.
The I knew I needed to do something creative to stimulate my brain but in a different way than my usually studying and homework. (That's another reason I like this blog, it does that for me a little bit.) So, after cleaning up I hung some shoe boxes up in my room to add a little flair to my decor. I got out some old art pieces from high school to hang as well.
Whenever I'm stressed, one of the first things I examine is my physical well being, since all emotion and thought stems from chemical reactions in your body, improper balances of nutrients can really make someone a nut job. So, I have been really focused on eating at regular intervals and eating a normal breakfast, something I have recently gotten away from doing. I made some coconut curry, bought some bread and have been eating well.
I also have made the commitment to do some exercise everyday. It doesn't need to be a killer workout, just a short job to break a sweat and get my blood pumping. I believe that my qi was not flowing properly and so going for a jog really has helped that.
Also, instead of exercising inside, I've been jogging outside, in the sunlight and the fresh air. I've been really detached from the earth since school started back up and I think that has really taken a toll on my ability to see my life from a distant perspective. So, after my jog, I pick a tree and, yes, give it a big hug. : ]
Instantly light-hearted. You can't hug a tree and still be in a seriously down mood afterward. It's just not possible.
There are still some more things that I need to do in order to gain more satisfaction with my life but at the moment I've feeling peachy keen.
Picking up my CSA today. Making a healthy dinner this evening. Going to see Lion King in 3D tonight.
My day couldn't look any better.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Bitter Sweet Life
It's been a while since I've posted. I've been so busy, I couldn't even imagine having time to just sit and type out a blog. However, I'm stranded on campus before class without any of my books, thus not able to work on the massive amounts of homework that define my life.
So, just a little update on my life. I've been working like a crazy person and taking 20 hours of class. So far, so good. I'm starting to hit a brick wall because it seems like when I'm working, I'm working both jobs every night, and then I get a few days off of both. So, I'm about ready for my recuperating time.
I absolutely love both of my jobs (and CBFO but that's a given). I have met so many awesome and fun people that it's not ever a chore to go into work. The only time I ever want to leave work is when I am just sleepy.
I have had to catch up on some sleep lately so I haven't had much time to get some of the studying done that I would like so normally my days off consist of doing copious amounts of studying. However, I still try to see my parents and my friends on a regular basis to keep me sane. I've been able to Skype Austin a lot lately which has been bitter sweet, such is the story of my life.
ANYwho, I've been so blessed to have the opportunity to talk to some really interesting people lately. One of my coworkers at the Rush is equally intrigued by health and nutrition as I am and we bounce ideas off of each other all the time. He is a really creative guy and I love being around people whose minds are constantly firing with new ideas. Also, yesterday at Earth Fare (I went to study but got nothing done) I was talking with this lady who works at a sleep lab. She was telling me about how many doctors lack the business mind to really grow and manage their practices as efficiently as should be. That was a new thing for me to think about and I really am grateful for all of the insight she gave me. (She also told me I could literally go crazy from lack of REM sleep. Haha. I'll be cautious about that.)
I've been in such a great mood for the past month or so I almost don't even know what to do with myself. I really love being out and meeting people. Everyone has something to offer and in the words of Jack Kerouac in On The Road, I like to dig people and dig life. To really get to know what people are all about and learn from their experiences and knowledge. So although I've been getting less sleep that desired and having so much to do, I've really enjoyed this semester thus far and I'm not at all regretful about taking this on.
I've been thinking about researching the effects of food and nutrition on hormones and mood for quite some time. Also, I have noticed a distinct difference in my mindset and overall emotional state since leaving adolescence and really would like to research hormone changes during adolescence (and of course the effect that nutrition has on those changes), whenever I find the time to do so.
Another small topic that I thought about while conversing with my coworker at the Rush was a question about corn. Most of you have observed first had that corn is not very well digested. I became curious as to the effect of corn products in so many of the processed foods in America with respect to its poor digestibility. It may be a simple answer but it also could so some really interesting things. So, again, maybe some day I'll have the time to research all of my questions.
On a completely off topic, I'm SOOO glad that the weather has cooled off. I'm sitting outside and I'm at my basal cold temperature rather than sweating profusely. Glad that fall is here and I can now bring out the cute cold weather clothing I love so much. : ]
So, just a little update on my life. I've been working like a crazy person and taking 20 hours of class. So far, so good. I'm starting to hit a brick wall because it seems like when I'm working, I'm working both jobs every night, and then I get a few days off of both. So, I'm about ready for my recuperating time.
I absolutely love both of my jobs (and CBFO but that's a given). I have met so many awesome and fun people that it's not ever a chore to go into work. The only time I ever want to leave work is when I am just sleepy.
I have had to catch up on some sleep lately so I haven't had much time to get some of the studying done that I would like so normally my days off consist of doing copious amounts of studying. However, I still try to see my parents and my friends on a regular basis to keep me sane. I've been able to Skype Austin a lot lately which has been bitter sweet, such is the story of my life.
ANYwho, I've been so blessed to have the opportunity to talk to some really interesting people lately. One of my coworkers at the Rush is equally intrigued by health and nutrition as I am and we bounce ideas off of each other all the time. He is a really creative guy and I love being around people whose minds are constantly firing with new ideas. Also, yesterday at Earth Fare (I went to study but got nothing done) I was talking with this lady who works at a sleep lab. She was telling me about how many doctors lack the business mind to really grow and manage their practices as efficiently as should be. That was a new thing for me to think about and I really am grateful for all of the insight she gave me. (She also told me I could literally go crazy from lack of REM sleep. Haha. I'll be cautious about that.)
I've been in such a great mood for the past month or so I almost don't even know what to do with myself. I really love being out and meeting people. Everyone has something to offer and in the words of Jack Kerouac in On The Road, I like to dig people and dig life. To really get to know what people are all about and learn from their experiences and knowledge. So although I've been getting less sleep that desired and having so much to do, I've really enjoyed this semester thus far and I'm not at all regretful about taking this on.
I've been thinking about researching the effects of food and nutrition on hormones and mood for quite some time. Also, I have noticed a distinct difference in my mindset and overall emotional state since leaving adolescence and really would like to research hormone changes during adolescence (and of course the effect that nutrition has on those changes), whenever I find the time to do so.
Another small topic that I thought about while conversing with my coworker at the Rush was a question about corn. Most of you have observed first had that corn is not very well digested. I became curious as to the effect of corn products in so many of the processed foods in America with respect to its poor digestibility. It may be a simple answer but it also could so some really interesting things. So, again, maybe some day I'll have the time to research all of my questions.
On a completely off topic, I'm SOOO glad that the weather has cooled off. I'm sitting outside and I'm at my basal cold temperature rather than sweating profusely. Glad that fall is here and I can now bring out the cute cold weather clothing I love so much. : ]
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Crazy life!
So, my life has been super nuts lately. I haven't really had a chance to post any blogs because of it. This one won't be too terribly long as I haven't done much other than work lately. Working night shift (midnight to 6am) is a different experience. I really like it so far even though my sleep schedule is slightly retarded. I have managed, due to the wonderful powers of my planning abilities, been able to get some sleep in every day. I have even be able to cook some food here and there. I made hummus at 10pm the other night. Cooked the chickpeas on the stove while I showered and dressed for work and then I mixed up a batch right before heading out. I've gotten a lot of use out of my cute lunch bag that I got from Border during their going out of business sale (R.I.P. Beloved Borders). The night before school started, Leah and I made some delicious treats so that we had snacks and breakfast (scones!!) for our first week of school. I have been enjoying my classes so far. My favorites will definitely be my physiology and microbiology classes.
Today for lunch I whipped up a quick stir fry from all of the remaining veggies that I have from my CSA box. (I have so many tomatoes I don't know what to do with them!) I through in some cumin and ginger just to play around and now I've decided that I'm gong to attempt to discover the recipe for the Japanese curry I love so much at Anaba.
Now off to get some homework done.
It's great to have so little free time as I'm way more efficient with the time I do have. : ]
Stay sane people!
Today for lunch I whipped up a quick stir fry from all of the remaining veggies that I have from my CSA box. (I have so many tomatoes I don't know what to do with them!) I through in some cumin and ginger just to play around and now I've decided that I'm gong to attempt to discover the recipe for the Japanese curry I love so much at Anaba.
Now off to get some homework done.
It's great to have so little free time as I'm way more efficient with the time I do have. : ]
Stay sane people!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Vegans Think They Are Better Than Meat-Eaters
eat, drink & be vegan: Vegans Think They Are Better Than Meat-Eaters: "We do?! I'm not saying that's the case. But, in reading some of the comments from my last post (trolling excepted), I feel that's what th..."
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Tea and Veggies
This morning as I was working on my never-ending physics homework, I made some tea in my cute new tea mug. : ]
For my late lunch, I went veggie crazy. This is my lunch before it went into the oven. There's tomatoes, yellow squash, new potatoes, red onion, fresh corn, and chickpeas. Those little flashes of green are fresh basil leaves... Yummy.. : ]
This was veggie heaven. I have leftovers that I can put over rice tomorrow. Healthy, low-cal, fresh, and delicious. What every lunch should be. : ]
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Spicy Vegan!
Oh my gosh, I love spicy food. So, yesterday I was trying out a recipe using the Japanese Eggplant I got in my CSA box this week. It was another really simple recipe, but holy eggplant! was it deliciously spicy.
I made it again tonight using the last two eggplants that I had, but this time I made it into a more complete meal with some brown basmati rice and I added some of that beautiful red cabbage I bought from the farmers' market last week. The recipe is just sauteed eggplant, onions, garlic with some soy sauce and chili garlic paste. I added a little more of the chili paste than the recipe called for because I like my food with an extra kick. I wish I had some more Japanese eggplant so I could make this meal again. I know the picture isn't that pretty but I wanted to show how bright the cabbage is.
I was telling my roommate how grateful I am of my vegan diet because I probably would have missed out on the glories of cabbage and Japanese eggplant otherwise. Especially with them mixed together in the same dish.
: ]
On a sad note, Borders is going out of business. : / So, I went by there to pay tribute and buy my school notebooks. They are all soo pretty. Everyone knows how dorky I am about my notebooks. I also got a really cute planner that will be my best friend this fall. I'm ready for school to start and the crazy to begin. Woo!
Final night of training is tomorrow and then I'll be making that paper all next week. I'm scheduled for Tuesday, Thurs, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday so I'll be doing crazy physics studying Monday and Wednesday.
Let the fun begin.
I made it again tonight using the last two eggplants that I had, but this time I made it into a more complete meal with some brown basmati rice and I added some of that beautiful red cabbage I bought from the farmers' market last week. The recipe is just sauteed eggplant, onions, garlic with some soy sauce and chili garlic paste. I added a little more of the chili paste than the recipe called for because I like my food with an extra kick. I wish I had some more Japanese eggplant so I could make this meal again. I know the picture isn't that pretty but I wanted to show how bright the cabbage is.
I was telling my roommate how grateful I am of my vegan diet because I probably would have missed out on the glories of cabbage and Japanese eggplant otherwise. Especially with them mixed together in the same dish.
: ]
On a sad note, Borders is going out of business. : / So, I went by there to pay tribute and buy my school notebooks. They are all soo pretty. Everyone knows how dorky I am about my notebooks. I also got a really cute planner that will be my best friend this fall. I'm ready for school to start and the crazy to begin. Woo!
Final night of training is tomorrow and then I'll be making that paper all next week. I'm scheduled for Tuesday, Thurs, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday so I'll be doing crazy physics studying Monday and Wednesday.
Let the fun begin.
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