Feeling Quite Ghoulish

Posted on October 31, 2009 by Katharina

In honor of one of my favorite holidays, Halloween, this is going to be a post full of spooky things and autumnal eats!

: My first bowl of pumpkin oats!

I just mixed in pumpkin puree with oats, vanilla protein powder, dried cranberries, NuNaturals vanilla liquid, and pumpkin pie spice. Once that was done cooking I topped with with pecans, Butterfingers, and ginger syrup. Yum!

: After I was done enjoying my bowl of pumpkin oats, I put on some spooky tights.

: More pumpkin goodness.

So I was roasting some acorn squash while I took Matilda on a walk. When I got back I realized I hadn’t even plugged the toaster oven, so no acorn squash for lunch! I improvised and made a mess out of bulgur, sautéed onions and garlic, chickpeas, pumpkin pie spice, coconut oil, and pumpkin butter. Totally random but still yummy.

: I actually roasted the acorn squash this time!

The only differences in this bulgur mix was the addition of raisins and subtraction of pumpkin. The acorn squash was baked with maple syrup, cinnamon, and butter.

: The black hole!

: Kind of like a cherry crumble.

I had a bowl of Nature’s Path vanilla almond granola with sweet dark cherries in warm soymilk.

: Fall colors!

: I tried a sample packet I got in Florida.

This is an all plant protein made by LifeTime. I tried the vanilla flavor and I was pleasantly surprised. I expected it to have a super “green” taste, but it didn’t at all and it was so yummy and thick. I tried it plain first, then I blended a banana after my taste-testing.

: Lunch!

Lunch was delicious! I had a sweet potato with Artisana’s coconut butter a la Liz. Homegirl knows what’s up! This was incredible. I am going to have to get myself a full-size jar of this stuff. One the side I had a mound of wilted spinach and chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato and cardamom cooking sauce. I dressed it up with some crushed cashews.

: Dinner

This was incredibly delicious! I got the recipe from Molly Wizenberg’s blog, Orangette. The recipe? Warm Butternut and Chickpea Salad with Tahini! I used the last of the sample of tahini from Artisana. On the side I had a Japanese sweet potato with butter and 1/2 garlic powder (too lazy to saute garlic), the other 1/2 cinnamon. Japanese sweet potatoes are so delicious!

: And here’s what I did with the last of my free white acorn squash…

I adapted my favorite Yummy Mummy, Cate’s white beans and Lebanese cous cous stuffed acorn squash recipe. Since I didn’t have cous cous on hand I just used bulgur. The acorn squash was too small to fit all the stuffing so I just put th rest of it in a bowl and eventually made it an acorn squash delicious-mess.

: Sweet potato and ricotta toasted sandwich.

I roasted some kabocha with cinnamon and maple syrup. Then I put some Artisana coconut butter on each wedge. In the back is some sweet potato with the coconut butter and a sprinkling of cinnamon as well. And my burnt toast? It’s a sweet potato and ricotta toasted sandwich! The original recipe calls for rye bread but I just used whole wheat since I don’t have rye bread. I also realized I forgot the spinach! Oh well! In the mug is a new tea I got: chocolate hazelnut!

Now on for some real Halloween frights! I had a reunion with an old friend of mine and he brought two other friends along. It was my first time meeting them but we had such a bonding experience! We went to a haunted hayride. Actually we visited three different attractions. We were chased by scary creatures with chainsaws, had to go through pitch black mazes while people and other things jumped out and surprised us. At some points we had to get down on our knees and crawl!

: Driving to certain doom…

: Down a dark and winding country road.

: All smiles!

: The place is actually a berry farm.

: Nightmare numero uno

: They took us on a really long hayride out to the woods in the middle of nowhere!

: Oh yes he dared!

: We’re like naive little baby chickens!

: Still naive!

David is such an incredible person! He's just bursting with life!

David is such an incredible person bursting with life!

The woods!

So we decided to take a break from being scared out of our minds and stopped for a photoshoot.

Hilarious!

He's such an actor!

I’m suppose to be the scary one, but I look terrified!

He was good at being creepy.

And Iman got to kiss one of the scary guys!

Moreover, don’t forget to enter my 101st Post Giveaway. You have until tomorrow noon time EST to enter!

I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Halloween! I’m hoping to go trick-or-treating. I just have to remember to smile really big! And of course there’s a costume in store.

p.s. Make sure to check out Krissy’s glo-ing giveaway!

101 Dalmations!

Posted on October 28, 2009 by Katharina

This is why I believe the number 101 is better than 100! This is reason why I decided to have a giveaway to celebrate this special occassion. Definitely special enough!

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Original Video – More videos at TinyPic

Yeah that’s actually my contained version of my excitement! I know I’ve expressed it quite a few times what this blog and all you friends out there mean to me. So what’s my way of celebrating this special occassion? With a snip-it of what it’s like to live in my life for a couple days and a special surprise at the end from yours truly. I’ll be honest, these last couple of days have been rough. But I had a reminder of how much harder things can get when I learned some sad news relating to someone I know. It really helped me push through, and helped me to stay motivated to rise above the stress. Anyway, here’s a little glimpse starting from Saturday night…

Scarves really help out when coming up with an impromptu costume!

Warm soymilk with Nature's Path Hemp Plus granola and a sliced banana.

Warm soy milk with Nature's Path Hemp Plus granola and sliced banana.

A nice way to start a grey chilly Sunday. I swear Nature’s Path makes some awesome granolas for something that comes out of a cereal box. Usually I find those granolas to really be lacking. The two flavors I’ve tried – Vanilla Almond Flax Plus and Hemp Plus are nothing short of delicious.

I decided to go out and check my mail, since I’m special and I get mail on Sundays. I really just forgot to check the day before, but let’s pretend.

From one of my favorite and most admirable people ever.

From one of my most favorite and admirable people ever!

I had forgotten my driver’s license and cash in her purse from the night we went clubbing in Miami. I got way more than that! One time someone complimented her on her sweater and she asked if they’d like to have it. This girl means what she says. I had mentioned that I liked her keychain cover, and she remembered that.

Gio is one year old!

I did some things around the apartment and before I knew it my tummy was growling for lunch!

Penne with Artichoke hearts, spinach, parmesan, ricotta, and pine nuts.

I stumbled upon this yummy site full of pasta recipes. I was feeling kind of down and out after some studio time and some “old/new” crush heartache (he decided to go MIA), so I called a good girlfriend of mine to do some retail therapy.

Note: wearing my hair up is a big deal for me.

Note: it's a big deal if I wear my hair up.

Jeez Matilda!

But she can also be a little lady.

Picking up my friend and admiring the leaves.

Matilda welcomes all passengers!

We picked up some coffee and headed to the doggy store. I got Matilda some goodies!

Some pumpkin "pup"cakes, a spooky cookie, and a new harness (finally!)

A couple pumpkin "pup"cake cookies, a spooky cookie, and a new harness (finally!)

Then we headed to Anthropologie! And what did Matilda do the second we got there? Peed, of course! It was weird because she had never done that before.

Some things I tried on...

Being sneaky taking pictures in the dressing room. I always feel like this is forbidden.

Super cool shirt!

Here’s a new addition to my necklace collection

Why hello there!

On the drive home my friend snapped some pictures of us crossing the James River.

My friend snapped some pictures of us crossing the James River on the way home.

Appreciating the fall season.

Got home and cooked some dinner.

I vaguely followed the recipe for pasta with ricotta, basil, and tomato. On the side are some hot butter and garlic artichokes with grated parmesan. Later I prepared my meals for the next day so I could spend all day in the studio.

Ah, Monday Monday…

I had some European style plain yogurt with Crofter’s raspberry superfruit spread, cranberry cinnamon swirl toast with cream cheese, pumpkin butter, and some slices with Artisana tahini and agave nectar. Oh! And can’t forget the apple I had already started biting into. May I just add that tahini + honey or agave = the bomb.com?

Then it was off to my morning Taoism class - first day of learning some exercises with sticks.

Then I stopped by my apartment real quick to get a snack and the rest of my goods.

Graham-wiches!

U.S. Mills sent me these awhile ago and I finally got around to trying them. I got to try the Honey Graham & Vanilla Creme sandwich cookies and the Chocolate Graham & Peanut Butter Creme kind. Both were seriously so good.

Sandwich cookie powers unite!

Then it was time for my "Kick Ass in the Studio Day"

Then I took a break to go to my Literature class.

I came prepared!

I made banana dahl + coconut oil with brown rice and vanilla butternut squash mash with cinnamon and ricotta.

All mixed together.

Some of the butt-kicking that went on.

Energy bar break!

Have you guys ever tried the Prana Bars by Divine Foods? Well, I was lucky enough to be sent some to sample for a review, which I will be posting later. The sneak preview – this flavor was incredibly delicious and I could definitely taste and even see the coconut shreds. The sweetness mainly comes from the date paste and agave I believe.

After having a dance party while setting up my piece in one of the critique rooms, I finally got home around 9 pm and let Matilda out to take care of her business.

So Tuesday rolled around the corner and it was critique day. Dun dun dun.

Random breakfast

I crushed up Trader Joe’s peanut butter filled pretzels, a fun-size Butterfingers, vanilla yogurt, and Crofter’s raspberry superfruit spread. I had an orange for a vitamin-c boost since I was feeling under-the-weather.

Crit Room 3

All that stuff on the table and in front of it on the floor fit into someone's Nissan Sentra.

And my sculpture... it also had a sound piece to it.

I was so scared about this critique… nauseous scared.. I wanted to go against my perfectionist tendencies as an artist, and just experiment and go with the flow. That felt so uncomfortable, so a lot of insecurities rose up. However, much to my surprise, the critique did not make me cry, nor did I actually throw up.

So now here’s the surprise! I decided to have a giveaway in celebration of this blog’s 101st post. The prize?

Lots of goodies!

A Sunshine Burger baseball cap so you can rep the best veggieburgers in town. A Nature’s Path Optimum Blueberry Flax and Soy bar (yummy icing). All the Prana Bars which are vegan, high-raw, and delicious. There are also some coupons and a vitamin case. Last but not least, I’ll also be sneaking in some other goodies but that’s a secret.

So what do you have to do?

1. Tell me your favorite recipe! It can be a sandwich, yogurt-mess, bowl of oatmeal bliss, dessert, whatever your hearts desire! I will recreate the winner’s favorite - and no worries if it’s not vegetarian. Where there’s a will there’s a way!

2. Link back to this contest.

3. Add me to your blogroll.

And please let me know if you do numbers 2 & 3. The contest will end on Saturday noon time EST. Thanks and good luck!

p.s. All you folks that have been treating yourself to Pumpkin ice cream, try it with walnuts!!! Speaking of sweets, I will be updating my recipe page so you can see the recipe for the scones! Enjoy your Wednesday everybody; we’re in the middle of the wave and it’s smooth riding from here.

Joy of Baking

Posted on October 25, 2009 by Katharina

I forgot to mention that Mitri’s mom’s baked ziti recipe, the one I feared would send my tummy ailments over the top, actually left me feeling 100% better the next day. This would be my cure; Who would’ve thought?

Ah my tummy finally started to not act all funky on me.

I tried some Artisana Walnut Butter on cranberry cinnamon swirl toast. I don’t thing there’s a single Artisana nut butter that I’ve tried that I haven’t absolutely loved. And I love cinnamon-anything toast for breakfast; especially the smell when it’s toasting! I also smeared on some of my favorite pumpkin butter and cream cheese on two slices. Oh! That’s also a bowl of European style yogurt with Crofter’s superfruit spread.

Thank goodness for leftovers! I enjoyed Mitri’s mother’s baked ziti recipe for lunch, and I gave my dad the other half to have at work the next day. SO GOOD!

I visited the islands the other day... kind of!

I visited the Caribbean the other day... kind of!

I followed this recipe for a taste of Haiti: Polenta, Beans, and Coconut or Maya Moulen Kole Ak Pwa Ak Kokoye, or Polenta aux Haricots Rouges et a la Noix de Coco. The above picture has the addition of tamarind-date chutney, but my favorite way to eat this was with melted cheese!

Let’s take a break from the food for a New York minute. The other day I went on a bike ride with my friend and Matilda on an unusually beautiful day.

We stumbled upon one of the many secrets parts spread out among the old Victorian neighborhood.

Pretty solid jungle gym!

Uh oh this was a lot bigger than what he thought.

Uh oh this was a lot longer than what he thought.

Is he going to attempt it?

Let go!

He went zooming down.

Yeah!

Matilda and the dog on the balcony were having a conversation.

Cray-cray!

My little warrior.

While we were at the park, the woman who helped keep it from being knocked down came and talked to us. She told us about events that are in the works, then she was summoned by her little son telling her the kitchen was beeping. “That means the rice is done cooking!”

Matilda was in her element running around and exploring.

Then we headed over to Strawberry St.

Might I also add that I bumped into my ex on this street. I was just trying to send brainwaves to my friend hoping he would hurry up!

: Remember this from your childhood?

I had a bowl of Farina creamy hot wheat cereal. I mixed in one of sample packs of rice protein powder, NuNaturals vanilla liquid, and cinnamon. On top I sliced a banana and finished the rest of my Artisana walnut butter sampler. I tried to make something inspired by banana-walnut bread. Eating the Farina was so comforting as I felt the chilly morning through the window pane.

And something to wear on a chilly day.

I forgot I had these!

After I got back from my Taoism class I wanted to bake something!

I decided to bake some pumpkin pie spiced, dried cranberry and ricotta cheese scones.

I decided to bake some pumpkin pie spiced dried cranberries, and ricotta cheese scones.

Mixing!

In to the toaster oven you guys go!

And shortly after these little guys were ready, and smelling better than ever!

I had a friend that I wanted to give some scones to in my English class.

I had a friend in my Literature class that I wanted to give some scones to.

That’s the thing I love about baking – it’s just so easy to share. Maybe it comes from the infectious smells that come from the oven whenever something delicious is baking.

Enjoyed for breakfast the next morning!

I spread on a dollop of ricotta + pumpkin butter on one scone, and the other I tried with coconut oil. I don’t think I could ever go wrong with coconut oil. Afterwards, since it was my free day I decided to walk over to my friend’s place of work. She works downtown in the heart of the medical campus of my school. I had a special delivery to make, so that meant dressing up! This is part of the work criteria when you work for Katharina’s version of FedEx.

This dress is rather large, but I love it anyhow!

One of the problems I encounter as a member of Petite People crew.

The back that had me at hello.

I have busting out the Forgotten Shoes this week.

I have been wearing some of the Forgotten Shoes this week.

I’m so sorry for my absence this week. I have been studying for a mid-term and working like a busy bee in the studio. But I have been trying to keep up with everyone’s blog because I just can’t get enough of you all!

Now here’s something for you all to chew on. The other day as I was browsing for recipes I stumbled upon an Ayurvedic recipe site, and I noticed they use the word pacify when it came to eating. Why not pacify ourselves? Afterall, we deserve it.

p.s. Next post is super special! This is my 100th post, but 101 is so much better. So don’t miss it, okay???

An Italian Love Affair

Posted on October 22, 2009 by Katharina

Oh my gosh guys I don’t know where to start! So I will start with Sunday, the day I got back from Florida.

But first, I’m so glad you guys enjoyed Maggie’s post. She’s such a sweet person with a killer sense of taste, creativity, and style!

*Warning* This post has tons of pictures!

: My dad flew up with me and we went the an Asian market.

: We got some things to try… well I could only try the black bean pastries. Delicious nonetheless!

: My stomach has been in a funk so for dinner I stuck to something comforting.

I just heated up some soymilk and mixed in a pack of Uncle Sam’s cinnamon raisin instant oatmeal with soymilk. I threw in a couple more raisins into my bowl. On the side I had mashed kabocha with a little sample size of coconut oil that the folks over at Artisana generously sent me. This actually tasted better than the coconut oil I usually use. However, I’m content using the one I have (not to mention I just got a new jar of it).

: Monday breakfast!

Cranberry cinnamon swirl toast! A topped one slice with Artisana macadamia nut butter, and the other with cream cheese + some more dried cranberries. On the side I tried some of Trader Joe’s European style yogurt with a spoonful of Crofter’s superfruit spread. I loved the consistency and taste of this plain yogurt! It wasn’t too tart at all. Oof that macadamia nut butter is so good.

: Ugh stomach was still upset.

But I opened up a jar of my favorite BBQ sauce. How awesome is the name? I also got to try another Sunshine Burger thanks to the freebie coupons they sent me. This time I picked out the original Sunshine Burger. No joke, this is the best vegetarian burger I’ve tried! This one is definitely not bland and you can taste the carrots in it too! I just put some vegan mayo and BBQ sauce on top. I had a bite without anything and my initial reaction was WOW. I seriously could eat this thing plain.

: Oh! I also got a pretty new water bottle.

: The right way to get my hell day, Tuesday, started.

This time I boiled some soymilk and poured it in with a packet of Nature’s Path Maple Nut oatmeal. Awhile ago they sent me a more than generous package. This was so good! Such a great tasting bowl of oatmeal for a cold morning. I also chopped in some dates, crumbled a bit of a Cranberry Apple Boomi Bar, swirled in Artisana macadamia nut butter. Once again, the macadamia nut butter was excellent with the Maple Nut oats. On the side I heated an apple up because I didn’t want anything cold. Then it was off to go to my 6-hour sculpture class. Good news? The morning part of class was cancelled. And what did that mean?

: Ran some errands with Matilda.

: One awesome oldie and a few new goodies!

I got a purple sweet potato at the Asian market on Sunday. Ever since I’ve seen them on April’s blog I’ve been wanting to try one! I got Scuppernongs for my dad as well. I saw that butternut squash was on sale I definitely put them in my basket. Funny story with the white acorn squash actually. I thought it was also on sale and when I saw it wasn’t, I wanted to cancel the item. Then when the cashier assistant came over he said he’d give it to me for the sale price. Then he kept typing in the wrong keycode and after another try he just said, “here you can just have it.” Cool! Then I went to pick up my prescription and they gave me a freebie package and an entry to win $1,000! Double whammy!

: I made an interesting hummus for lunch.

Chickpeas + Brewed Mustard + Agave + EVOO + Pumpkin Butter = That up there!

: Bah! Tummy ache go away. But atleast it tasted yummy right?

Then it was time to go to the second half of my sculpture class.

: My studio!

I want to go to the different shop areas they have in the Fine Arts building and take pictures so you guys can see!

: I spy something yummy.

: Okay… so my belly was still in a funk but I couldn’t wait any longer!

I had all the ingredients to make Mitri’s mother’s baked ziti recipe. That’s right folks! And I was making it for me and my dad.

: Boiled pasta!

: Mixing some of the ingredients together.

: Layering

In the mean time while it was baking I had to distract myself. I usually get impatient with things that require baking because I don’t really have to do anything. So I made tutorial of how to eat a scuppernong.

Pop the pulp out!

: Dig for seeds!

Ding! Okay I think the ziti is ready!

: Yup! So worth the wait.

: Ladies and gentlemen, and now presenting Mitri’s mother’s baked ziti!

: Buon Appetito!

So I have quite the treat for you guys next post. I’ll give you hint: I have been testing my patience with more baking. And here’s an interesting fact for all you fall lovers out there. Did you know that pumpkin is actually a fruit?

p.s. candy corn devotees out there here’s a DIY recipe!

My Breakfast “Bowls”

Posted on October 20, 2009 by Katharina

Today I have a special surprise for you all. My very first guest post on this blog! And it’s none other than the super sweet and inspirational Maggie from My Breakfast Blog. Now I’ll stop “talking” and just let you enjoy!

Hello Katharina’s Food Adventure readers! If you don’t know who I am let me give you a little intro. My name is Maggie and I am the photographer and writer behind My Breakfast Blog. Its a comfy warm space I like to share my daily food muses and random bowls of oats. The lovely Katharina was kind enough to let me guest post today, thank you, so I thought I would share with you a little bit of what goes into creating these bowl’s of love.

All about the Oats: Before I make oats I first have to decide on what kind…lately my grain of choice is Oat Bran. I love the creamy texture and the way it absorbers liquid like risotto. But sometimes I do mix steel cut oats and old fashion with the oat bran to make a 50/50 texture. It’s too good, trust me!

Creamy Pumpkin Nutmeg Oats topped with Cacao Nibs, Almonds and Walnuts

Slow and Steady: I hate to sound like a fanatic but I can’t express it enough..they way you cook your oats matters! I use this method daily and I find myself with a bowl of creamy goodness every time. First, bring one cup of water up to a boil with a dash of salt. Then add oats and bring to a bowl again, when it has lower temperature to medium heat. When the water has been soaked up add thinly sliced banana and whip it in, this adds a perfect level of sweet and creaminess to the oats. Lower the heat to low-medium and add small amounts of your favorite “milk”, hemp milk is my favorite. Like I said oat bran acts like risotto, it will reject the liquid if its flooded, so allow it to absorb before continuing. Before you take it off the heat, add your favorite spices, cinnamon, cardamon, nutmeg, whatever! Just make sure you add them before you take them off the heat so the oats can get all spicy. Cover for eight minutes.

English Raspberry Tart Oats with Shredded Wheat

Mix it: Everyone is different but I always sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on the bottom of my bowl before adding the oats. When I really want some creaminess I’ll add either plain Greek yogurt or more hemp to make it that much more delicious. But if your in the mood for a pie like breakfast I would totally go for pumpkin puree or apple sauce instead! Next I throw in my favorite nuts and dried fruit, usually the old standbys are cashews and raisins. But sometimes creativity nips at me and I try funky combinations like dried orange slices and sea salted dark chocolate almonds. Throw in what your craving and just go with it.

Banana Nut Bread Creamy Oats

Top it: Of course this step is optional but usually its sole purpose is for eye candy and that first oat lovin’ bite. Who doesn’t like to eat something pretty, yes I called oats pretty, so start topping your oats! My toppings of choice are raw almond butter, cinnamon or the favoriate….cookie crumbs!

Vanilla Bean Animal Cookies Oats with Pomegranate Glazed Cashews

Devour it: Just kidding, no explanation needed!

There you have it, a bit of my oat wisdom shared with you all. So if you already are a oats enthusiast or you are just starting out, I say try new flavors…it won’t disappoint! I know Katharina has some awesome combinations on her recipe page that has continue to inspire me, you must check them out! Thanks again Katharina

Party in the City Where the Heat Is On

Posted on October 19, 2009 by Katharina

Hey everybody! Yeah, I quoted that Will Smith song! Anyway, did you all like the video? Sorry it’s so long and I couldn’t post it on the actual blog. Bah. But I’m back in Richmond now, and I was greeted with cold weather and a grey sky. All I could think was, “why did I leave Florida?!” Oh that’s right, I’ve got a life up here! I was also reunited with my little bumpkin, Matilda. Hehe she’s really not from the country but that word is cute! I missed her so much and she’s seriously looking more adorable than ever.

Anyway, let’s see… where were we on the Florida recap? Aha! Saturday morning…

Breakfast looked like a blob!

After getting home late, I managed to wake up around 9. I mixed some oats with yogurt and cottage cheese. I topped it off with a peach, dark cherries, apple butter, cinnamon, and peanut butter. I went to lie down a little bit more before I got ready for my AM yoga class. It felt so nice to be doing some deep stretches! After the yoga class, me and my mom went to the sauna for a bit. Then we came home and I whipped up a quick lunch.

Lots of green!

I made a stir-fry with bell peppers, zucchini, bean sprouts, and scallion with Teriyaki sauce. On the side is a ready-made Indian food called Patra. It is basically stuffed taro leaves and mildly spicy. We served it with a sauce made with coconut kefir (you can use any yogurt), and tamarind-date chutney. Check out the avocado!

On the side I had cottage cheese with fruit preserves and pomegranate seeds.

After lunch I got ready to run some errands with my dad again. We went to several places, and made an impromptu stop at a local Italian market called Doris’. Everything there is authentic and they have the best produce! They’ve also got fresh pastas and cheeses, aisles of olive oils, tomato sauces, chocolates and almond candies. Did I mention a bakery as well? I remember on Christmas they had a crowd of regular customers at the door right before they opened and they were thanking everybody for sticking with them throughout the years. We finally got home and it was time to get ready for dinner.

Mom and daughter!

I looked up Mediterranean restaurants in Miami and I spotted one that looked interesting. It’s The Lido and it’s located in a spa that’s apart of The Standard hotels.

It had a retro vibe going on.

Once we got inside we had someone guide us to the restaurant since it’s a part of a spa.

It's too dark to see really, but the pool looked like it was about to overflow.

Outdoor dining - the kitchen was outdoors as well!

Outdoor dining - the kitchen and bar were outdoors as well!

The atmosphere was very relaxed and people were just lounging around in the deep seats or by the bar.

It was a chilly and windy evening for south Florida.

Since we were sitting right by the bay, it was super windy! I ordered a coffee hoping to stay warm and not get tired. I had a night of dancing planned for me!

We ended up moving where we sat because it was incredibly windy and we didn't want to be eating our hair.

I ordered the raw vegan living "lasagna" which consisted of ground nuts, thinly sliced vegetables, and I can't remember what else!

My parents ordered fish dishes.

I wish I could remember what the dishes were, but my dad liked the yogurt sauce that accompanied his piece of snapper. They also gave us what I believe was toasted lavash and pita chips.

After dinner we just walked around the spa for a bit, and they had an adult playground complete with swings!

After dinner we just walked around the spa for a bit, and they had an "adult playground" with swings!

They also had a firepit which was perfect for the chilly night.

Afterwards, it was time to head back and rest a bit before I went out again.

Tonight we were dancing no matter what!

Kenny and Chris said they had a surprise for me!

I made the same face after my first sip!

Oh my gosh Kenny poured us what he called “suicidal shots”. Basically that meant 3 or 4 shots in one.I don’t really drink on the regular so I took a sip and made a sour-puss face. I ended up mixing it with pineapple juice. Then it was time to leave their place and walk to the clubs. Pilar and I were holding on to each other for body warmth. Even Florida has cold fronts! We were relieved once we got to our destination! I didn’t bring my camera, but I found some pictures online of the place we went to.

They had dancers

An outdoor area with a firepit and fountain.

And some places to sit indoors as well.

There were some very interesting people at the club! Some guy was dressed up as a gladiator and stood on one of the platforms and totally got into character by acting like some emperor. Then there was someone dressed up as… I can’t even describe. But they had everything covered from head to toe. Anyhow, we were dancing the night away and it was so much fun to let loose. Dancing is something I love and I never care what anyone else is thinking. It’s like the world around me just disappears. We finally headed back home and I passed out in the car, I was dead tired and I knew I had to wake up in 2 hours anyway. I got home and I didn’t even change into my pajamas. An hour later my dad woke me up and I quickly got ready, but I didn’t bother to change my dress. Stinky! But hey, this is what party animals do, right? Party all night, then catch flights in last night’s makeup and dress!

But I did have something quick ready for me to eat for a quick breakfast!

I did have something ready for me to eat that made for a quick breakfast!

If you like super thick yogurt then I suggest Icelandic style skyr. It’s thicker than Greek yogurt, the siggi’s brand is anyway.

I also packed myself a little lunch.

Ever since I got food poisoning at the airport, I’ve been kind of paranoid of eating things from any airport. So I just pack my own stuff instead.

Some orange tea before I passed out.

I made a PB&J sandwich! I also brought 2 giant carrots and Dr. Kracker's crackers.

I made a PB&J sandwich! I also had two giant carrots (Bugs Bunny style) and Dr. Kracker's crackers.

Now I’m back and just getting into the swing of things again. The last two days in Florida were full of friends and family and just going out there and living it up! It’s hard to feel motivated to do schoolwork after going back home, but the semester will be done before I know it! I’ve also been having tummy issues, and I’m not sure from what. It really sucks though because my stomach is acting up after everything I eat. No bueno! I should get some ginger cubes and ginger root.

I hope you guys are bundling up if you’re experiencing cold weather. Being sick with the sniffles is not good… except for the part when there’s someone special spoiling you!

Making Your Own Fun

Posted on October 18, 2009 by Katharina

This was my Friday night out on the town…

Where are we going?

My friends came and picked me up, but me and Pilar had no idea what they had in store for us. I wasn’t paying attention to where we were driving I just knew we were in Boca. Then when we got out of the car we were in a random parking lot and I was still lost. Then we got closer and I said, “PILAR!!!” One time we finally came here and for some reason we turned back; I think we were scared hehe. We ended up walking in during a comedy skit and I was expecting us to be the butt of a cruel joke. Surprisingly, we were not.

We had been wanting to go to this place for years!

Isn't she so cute?!

Her first time smoking from a hookah.

The boys ordered us a drink called The Red Pill.

All their drinks are made with organic juices, liquors, and beers. I always wanted to go there to try their teas, but tonight was different! The boys ordered a beer called The End of the World that they vow to drink till the year 2012.

Next stop: Miami! Hey girl heyyy!

Then we headed to their apartment down in Miami - it's so close to the clubs and the Design District!

Their kitchen. They won't move in officially till later.

Pilar looking out over the balcony.

We went driving around to see how the club scene looked, but it was surprisingly calm. We just went on a tour of some neat places around Miami instead.

Neat mural

Grafitti!

The character on the left is kinda cute with his one tooth.

Definitely made me think "guerilla art".

Ooo someone got arrested!

Then our friends took us to one of their spots where they hang out and ponder.

Throwing rocks in the intercoastal

Pilar took my camera and started snapping pictures.

Hi!

I love her so much!

Throwing rocks

Then we headed over to South Beach

Welcome to Florida!

Then it was pizza time.

Pizza Rustica

Pilar reminded me of a little kid in a candy shop

The place was packed even at 4 in the morning!

We headed back home in the wee hours of the morning. I slept on the way back home, but I had to get up in 5 hours to get ready for my Saturday morning yoga class. I’ll recap my last day in Florida in my next post.

I know there aren’t really any foodie pictures here, but next post is going to have so many! Also, here is the FAQ video as promised. Unfortunately, it’s too long to upload on a site that works with WordPress, so this external link will have to do for right now. It’s long! But I hope you enjoy!!!

FAQ Video

What if you’re having fun and you want time to slow down?

Posted on October 17, 2009 by Katharina

Good evening ladies and gentlemen! I have quite a few goodies in store for you. Thursday night I stayed up late watching TV with my mom and worked on my post. I have so much fun writing these up. I really enjoy thinking about what I would like to share with you all. So let’s get to it!

Mom and I knew that we’d be waking up early today for a kickboxing class – 8:30! But I know there are some people who take cycling at 5:30. Imagine having the energy to do a cycling class at 5:30. Do any of you get up super early for a workout? After we came back, despite having a big pre-workout snack, I was so hungry! I didn’t have to wait to cook anything though because I had a bowl of muesli I had sitting overnight in my fridge. My mom made a pouty face and said, “you didn’t make one for me?” Aw man! I quickly made a bowl of muesli for mi madre.

: Mom’s bowl consisted of pomegranate seeds, a baby banana, sultanas, and some plums

: I had pomegranate seeds, plums, sultanas + honey & peanut butter

Do you see that beautiful pink and green fruit on the side?

: A guava! You can eat the skins as well.

My mom also put peanut butter and honey in her muesli. I love how she tries whatever I’m having!

After lounging around some we got ready for the beach and packed a lunch. Oh my gosh! The weather was beautiful, but the wind + sand = painful.Then we went swimming in the water and I saw a huge sting-ray and a big fishtail + chunk of fish floating around. Gross! So we battled it out in the sandstorm for a bit, went back in the water, then headed home. Atleast I got my tan on though! When we got home I took a shower and tried to get as much of the sand out of my hair as I could. After I got ready it was time for an outing with my dad. And I looked up recipes for tonight’s dinner while he drove.

: I highly recommend the cookbook on the left! Both are great, but the one on the left is my favorite.

We went to the local health food store called Tunie’s. It’s a really great place with so much selection. They sell a lot of things that are hard to find – even in places like Whole Foods. Not to mention, they have some of the cheapest prices around – even cheaper than Vitacost sometimes. So let me show you some of their selection…

: Check out all the seaweed!

I instantly thought of Katie and grabbed a bag of arame. Okay okay, I will warn you guys. What I’m about to show you requires your full attention and a moment of silence.

: The Land of Milk and Honey

Those are jars upon jars of nut butters. Did you know that Maranatha has dark chocolate spreads – like dark chocolate almond.

So this is what I got:

: Dulse and Arame

: So good!

This pasta made out of quinoa sounded interesting. My favorite BBQ sauce (thick style) and my favorite pumpkin butter. Replenished my coconut oil supply. I’ve never tried hemp protein powder. My dad also noted that I can use it in baking to add some protein. Brilliant! I also got some sample packets of other kinds of plant based proteins. Don’t worry I didn’t forget the jar of cashew butter! If there’s a word to describe cashew butter I think it would have to be… sophisticated. I know that’s a weird word to be describing a nut butter, but it’s so subtle yet delicious.

: Coconut girl?

So much So Delicious action going on here. I had a coupon for the ice cream and yogurt, and I’ve never tried to kefir.

: Duh!

I got the Purely Decadent Blueberry Cheescake. This was so good! I loved the little blueberries and just everything. I announced to my family that dessert was coming after dinner. This was before I even started making dinner!

: Yay! My mother asked what could she do to help.

My dad turned on some Best of Simon & Garfunkel and poured us glasses of wine.

: What a coquette.

: Recipe? Measurements? I’ll just eyeball it! As usual.

: Baked butternut squash (ketchup in the background), avocado, and hot sour chickpeas

Deeelicious! I went out with my friends later on Friday night, and I’ll be posting those pictures up next. It was definitely an eventful night; but when you’re in Miami, when is it not?

I made the FAQ video on Friday but due to some technical difficulties it’s just not available right now. Sorry!

p.s. thank you for the compliments on the dress! I bought it awhile ago at none other than… Anthropologie.

*For some reason my comments were disabled but I fixed it!

Variety’s the Very Spice of Life

Posted on October 16, 2009 by Katharina

It’s almost the end of the work week!!! What better way to start this post, than with one of my favorite posts this week. One of my favorite bloggers, Nicole (hey girl hey!) wrote a post that brought a smile to my face and reminded me how wonderful family can be; and being with them can bring such happiness. Check it out!

Not enough room to pack in my bag -this is what I wore on my traveling day!

This isn't good-bye, just see you later.

I left Matilda with the only person I would trust besides my family. Actually, I trust her because she is like family! I miss Matilda so much. I keep thinking I hear her little paws clicking on the marble floor.

Twas a rainy day

The first part of my flight was delayed so when we landed I had less than 15 minutes to run across the airport at Detroit to make it to my connecting flight. By the time I got to the gate they were already boarding. But I made it!

I took some pictures of some interesting things my parents have.

Check it out peeps!

Fufu flour aka plaintain flour, Kefir made from goat’s milk, Dr. Kracker crackers, German bread (NEELA!), pomegranate seeds, and tamarind.

They actually have Sabra! So smooth!

My parents have good taste. But I am kind of surprised that the only nuts in the house were macadamias! I think this is because my mom can’t really eat nuts anymore since she got braces. After my dad got back from his long walk, we made breakfast together.

A papaya cut just in time; perfect!

Nino banana!

I made a fruit salad.

I love the variety of fruits my parents have!

The chocolate chips I plan on kidnapping!

On the side is some cottage cheese and fruits.

Cottage cheese in my oats!

I thought this was the perfect opportunity to try a style of oats I see on April’s blog. Afterall, this lady definitely knows what’s up! My mom just followed me as if it was a rule. She’s so cute! I think she thinks I’m Queen of Oats or something. If she saw what all you other talented folks create, her mind would be blown.

For lunch I made a wrap and stir-fry.

I swear my parents have been reading food blogs. These wraps were the Flat-Out ones I see frequently around the blogosphere. Inside my wrap? Sabra hummus of course! Also some organic girl baby spinach, tomato, and the best medium cheddar I’ve ever tasted.

I also made a wrap for my dad.

When I first tasted the medium cheddar I exclaimed how good it was. Then he remarked that he thought it would taste good with apples. I agreed! So I made him a wrap with melted medium cheddar, cooked onion, and apple. I actually ended up taking the first bite. My excuse? I’m the king’s taste tester… you know… just in case someone tries to poison him?

Post Office adventure!

Afterwards we headed to the dry cleaners, then on to more important matters. I finally got to submitting two of my videos to a film festival up in Seattle. Fingers crossed!!! Then we went to the mall and I got some new sneakers. My mom also took me to this new lingerie boutique she went to the other day. They had so many pretty things! It reminded me of this Japanese intimacy boutique I went to the last time I was in New York. They had cute Betsey Johnson sets and Chantelle bralettes.

Dinner time rolled around…

Variety = lots of color!

Mexican!

I am totally taking advantage of the .79 cent avocados while I’m down here! I just cooked the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and squirts of lime juice. The beans were cooked with cumin and turmeric. All together? Tortilla, veggies, beans, Queso Fresco, corn and bean salsa + AVOCADO!

And two beautiful and inspiring young women gave me, along with some other wonderful ladies, an amazing award! Thank you Karina and Mitri.

I have to fill out this survey using only one word answers now….

1.Where is your cell phone? Bag

2.Your hair? Dirty

3. Your mother? Super-sweet

4. Your father? Mr. Logical

5. Your favorite food? Indian

6. Your dream last night? RANDOM

7. Your favorite drink? WhiteRussian (I made it one word!)

8. Your dream/goal? PREVAIL!

9. What room are you in? Bedroom

10. Your hobby? Dance

11. Your fear? Toothless

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Traveling

13. Where were you last night? Airport

14. Something you aren’t? Bitter

15. Muffins? Breakfast!

16. Wish list item? Projector

17. Where did you grow up? Germany/Florida

18. Last thing you did? Ate

19. What are you wearing? Pj’s

20. Your TV? AltonBrown

21. Your pets? Matildaaa

22. Your friends? RULE

23. Your life? Fortunate

24. Your mood? Content

25. Missing someone? Matilda!

26. Vehicle? GANGSTAAA’

27. Something you’re not wearing? Bra!

28. Your favorite store? Anthropologie

29. Your favorite color? Green

30. When was the last time you laughed? NOW

31. Last time you cried? Wednesday

32. Your best friend? Mama

33. One place that I go over and over? Studiooo

34. One person who emails me regularly? Mom

35. Favorite place to eat? Indian!

and pass the award on to 5 other amazing bloggers! Oh my gosh do I really have to choose? For real, there are just way too many bright crayons to choose from. So… can I choose… everyone? Okay!

On the way home from the airport last night my mom told me that she shared my blog with some of her friends and co-workers and they were amazed. They told my mom that I should open up some kind of something! One of her friends actually suggested something that I can seriously consider in my near future – hosting “how-to” cooking clinics. Wouldn’t that be fun? Does anybody have any advice on this?

Hope you enjoy your day tomorrow. Heck it's Friday - do I even need to hope?

p.s. I want to make the FAQ video mañana - so keep the questions coming!

Change of Pace

Posted on October 14, 2009 by Katharina

I’m going to rewind on my eats a bit because I’ve been skipping around. Remember that pumpkin & lentil curry me and my friend made?

: This is what I did with my leftovers.

Since it was pretty thick it made a good filler for a wrap. The curry was just re-heated with some coconut oil and I also grilled an apple with cinnamon, then spread on some Crofter’s superfruit spread (pomegranates and black currants blended with red grapes and morello cherries).

: Cran-Lemon Twister

Well, this was the last ProBar out of my sampler package. I have to say, I was not disappointed with these bars. The first bite I took out of this one I literally made the “mmm” noise. It definitely has a zing and gave my tastebuds a little twist they’re not use to. Some of the ingredients in this bar are cranberries, lemon, papaya, and pineapple. There are so many other ProBar flavors I didn’t get to try, and I really want to. I guess I will be starting a new collection?

: Dun dun dun… the mandolin slicer.

I bought a butternut squash not too long ago, and I knew exactly what things I wanted to make with it!

: Butternut squash fries!

I seasoned them with salt and some Old Bay. On the side I followed Happy Herbivore‘s spicy chickpea spread recipe. You must try this! It is incredibly easy to make, requires no cookibng, and is great as a sandwich filler, dip, or even alone. In the very back is the famous potato salad from Mrs. Marshall’s Carytown Cafe.

: I mixed in some vegan mayo and ketchup to make it more like a “fries” dip.

: Butternut squash mash

I was reading Lauren‘s blog one day and saw that she made butternut squash mash, and it just sounded so good! I mixed in some coconut oil, vanilla, sugar, and I topped it off with coconut shreds. I had to wait for it to cool down – this was steaming hot!

: More butternut squash fries!

I baked these with freshly grated parmesan then I grated some more on afterwards. I served it with my last ooey-gooey arepa con choclo (sweet corn cake with farmer’s cheese). But I plan on re-stocking while I’m in Florida. There’s a Colombian cafe that makes delicious arepas. But my dad said they changed the cook so they’re a bit different now. We’ll see.

: Pumpkin penne with homemade pumpkin puree

I have no idea how I stumbled upon this recipe, but I’m glad I did. I didn’t have sour cream so I used cream cheese instead. Logical substitute, right?I got to try out another Tofurky product – the Italian sausages. I really like the seasonings they used for these sausages! I’m also glad there is a vegetarian version of these out there because I feel like this recipe would be incomplete without that ingredient. Delicious and easy!

Just like Mitri, I will continue to eat my orange foods to maintain my olive complexion! I have another fall colored dish for you. I’m so use to seeing green in my vegetable portions!

: Root vegetables and chickpeas

I followed a recipe sent to me through the Kardea newsletter. This is just something I made a big batch out of convenience. I plan on serving it with rosemary infused white rice. For a more rustic dish you could serve it with wild rice, or any other grain your prefer. I bet even roasting some potatoes and almonds in this would be delicious as well.

: Matilda also got a special somethin’ somethin’ from Trader Joe’s!

I almost forgot! Here’s the food porn I promised!

: Mmm so creamy

Hmm… what to do with my strawberry Chobani?

: Breakfast the other day was like a banana split!

I heated up a Vitalicious brownie, sliced a banana, sprinkled on some cashews and sprinkles of course! Topped it off with a scoop of fro-yo. On the side I had some cranberry cinnamon swirl toast with cream cheese and 1/2 with Crofter’s superfruit spread and the other 1/2 with Creme of Almond & Dates.

: Up close and personal

: Explosion!

Holly, look it’s a yog-mess!

Today I fly to Florida! Actually, the other night when I double-checked my itenerary I realized that there was a very big mistake. My dad had booked my flight as if I were departing from Florida tomorrow and flying back there on Sunday. Oops dad! You mixed them up. He was able to work it out I guess. Anywho, I’m so excited!

: Some of you may be experiencing the harsh weather already, so don’t forget to bundle up!

: Matilda says so!

p.s. Does anyone have any penne and pesto recipes they’d like to share? Thanks a bunch!

p.s.s. Keep the questions coming! I hope to have a video up by tomorrow. Special post for Friday!

Katharina's Food Adventures

Monthly Archives: October 2009