I’m going to start off this post with a little piece of my mind. Lately, I’ve been thinking about where my life is going, and where I want it to go. Sometimes I let my ideas sit in my head, but I’ve been getting them outside of my head by discussing them with others and taking action. It’s very rare that the things you want just magically appear in your lap, so what are you waiting for? Rather than just sulking around, wishing for anything but now, do yourself a favor and look around you. Then look inside of yourself. Most likely, you have what it takes to make your dreams come true. Think of your qualities as bridges. Bridges that will help you on your journey, of course! And if you find yourself sounding like a broken record, well isn’t it time that you flip the side? The side that plays the beautiful tune called “believing in myself”.
A bowl of peculiar colors for breakfast.
I made my regular bowl of oats and let it get cold in the fridge overnight. In the morning I whipped up some banana soft-serve, and threw in some diced mango. While making the banana soft-serve I also blended in some Cacao Bliss since it hardens on contact. I topped this all off with some pumpkin seed butter, crunchy peanut butter, and sprinkles. I loved biting into the chia seeds, crunchy peanut bits, and sprinkles. This breakfast bowl kind of reminds of a desert scene with its colors.
Something else frozen and delicious to cool off on hot summer days.
Kiley generously sent me a couple of vouchers to try out Luna & Larry’s Coconut Bliss ice cream. I’ve heard so many great things about this ice cream, and I was so excited to see what all of the fuss is about. I went to the store and chose the cherry amaretto flavor–one of my favorite flavor combinations.
I also received a vibrant storybook of sorts!
This was such a fun way to read about the beginnings of this ice cream and health benefits of my beloved coconut! The booklet made my desire to get an ice cream maker even stronger. I want to have ice cream taste-testing parties with my friends and family as well!
So it was time to taste and test...
Oh my goodness! The first things that popped into my head when I tasted this, “creamy, coconut, flavor, delicious, rich, yum yum yum, bliss!” Next spoonful!
And I found the cherries!
Now I know why people can easily finish a pint of these ice creams in one sitting. I’ve had ice creams made with coconut milk before, but none have been as rich as Coconut Bliss. And it’s not short on flavor by any means. I can imagine how satisfyingly delicious the other flavors must be.
Fashion tip: dressing up simple things is easy with colorful statement accessories.
I tend to have atleast one thing in my outfit that stands out, and often gets comments from strangers. In fact, when I wore this outfit the other day the woman at the store marveled at my necklace and then said to me, “Oh wow what a beautiful necklace, actually, everything is cute! The whole thing!” Thank you! It makes me smile when people can’t help but comment on how much they like something. There’s enough stress going on in the world, why not make it a bit more pleasant by saying some kind words, you know?
I stopped by the library the other day and picked up some books and a movie.
I love that I can leave the library with two arm-loads. I picked up Ani Phyo’s book on raw food desserts since I had seen it on so many blogs–curiosity was sparked! There are definitely some recipes I really want to make, like a raw version of tiramisu. I am so picky when it comes to what I consider a good tiramisu, so I’m eager to see how it will turn out. I also got “Thrive: The Vegan Nutrition Guide to Optimal Performance in Sports and Life” to get some ideas for me and my dad. None of us are intentional vegans, but we’ve found that most of what we eat is vegan-friendly. I also got some bread recipe books, and I can’t wait to make some loaves using rye flour. I’ve mentioned Ayurveda a few times on my blog, and whenever I come across anything related I like to read about it. This book explains a lot about this concept and includes some recipes as well. The ideas behind Ayurvedic cooking are so fascinating. I also picked up “The Single Girl’s Manifesta”!
Here's a recipe I've been eyeing on Averie's blog.
She has so many incredible recipes on her blog, and it’s about time that I recreate one of them! So what recipes is this? Her “Spicy Doritos” Cheezy Dip. It definitely doesn’t look as smooth as hers, but it’s the taste that matters!
And I could definitely eat this by itself, but having something to dip is fun!
Do fingers count?
I organized a little basket with some of the things I use to make my oat bars.
I was going to buy chocolate chips at the store, but then I thought about just grating my own chips by using a chocolate bar. A chocolate bar with a love poem, that is.
While we're on the topic of bars...
My dad created his own! He remembered that I told him how easy it was to make your own Larabars, and with that he attempted to make his own! I was sitting at the table reading, and next thing you know he comes to the table with a beautiful, homemade bar. Am I rubbing off on my parents? Although, they were the ones to introduce me to Larabars! He told me he just crushed a mixture of nuts and basically “glued” them together using medjool dates. Then he grated in some ginger root as well. It’s that easy folks! And you can get creative with flavors too. Go ahead, try it, and recreate some of your favorites!
I realized I hadn't had plantains in awhile, and I missed them.
I mashed one plantain and tried to make… pancakes? Inspired by tostadas which are twice-fried plantains. I fried these then drizzled on some coconut oil, coconut shreds, sesame seeds, and hemp seeds.
And look at what we have here!
I made something else inspired by another blogger. Sweet Potato-IAJ a la Katie! I used up the last of the homemade cashew-macadamia nut butter. I guess this means I’ve got to make another jar!
Well, this chica is off to straighten up a bit because I’ve got a friend coming over for dinner. I’m so excited because we are both going to be taste-testers, and you’ll see what I’m talking about in my next post! What does Friday mean to you? Whatever it means, I hope you enjoy it!
It’s definitely better to discuss the ideas out loud with others – gets the ball rolling.
You popped the cherry in the ice cream…. okay, I’m done!! hahahahaha.
Friday involves a friend coming over for me as well
Cheers to a fun night for us all!!
Your breakfast looks amazing! You’ve inspired me to try banana softserve in my breakfast.
Love the necklace and that ice cream sounds fantastic as well!
Hope you have a great evening!
hey lovely!
looks good too! all ur dishes and breakfasts and eats, etc ! look amazing as per usual! I MUST get coconut bliss once and for all! ive been meaning for ages now! 
The 1st paragraph, wow..it really resonated with where i am in my life now! I often feel like my ideas are just sitting there, and i wish to do so many things! Late;y ive been talking about things i want to do, and making strides to put it into action! It feels so great! The bridge comparison is so amazing to think of
I think its too cute and cool that ur dad whipped out a “larabar” of his own!
Have a great weekend beautiful!
xx
maya
Coconut Bliss is to die – so freaking fantastic!! I’ve only had the vanilla bean kind but it put me in foodie heaven. It’s dangerous though.. I ate half the container in one night.
Totally worth it.
Sweet potato IAJ sounds like a great idea! Now I just need to buy some pb and finish it off so that I can test this out.
LOVE your first paragraph. I spend way too much time… I don’t know, hoping I guess? for things to fall in my lap when I know that that just isn’t how it works. I need to work on that whole action thing a little more
Compliments from strangers are the best. And you definitely deserve them, your outfits are ALWAYS fabulous.
And plantains are amazing, I need to pick some up asap!
beautiful post….beautiful katharina:-)….o and beautiful food lol xoxo
I love that. “Think of your qualities as bridges.” What a beautiful insight!
That is so cute that your dad is making his own bars. OMG, you are definitely inspiring your parents. So adorable!
Talk about inspirations though. You have been busy being inspired by some wonderful looking/sounding things lately. Doritios dip!! Amazing!
Hope you had a wonderful week and I hope you have the best weekend planned my love.
Oh my gosh, the Coconut Bliss looks completely CRAZY amazing!!!
Lucie
That’s so cute about your dad and larabar making! My parents are much more of processed food lovers. Haha my mom is a lacto-ovo vegetarian, but she’s definitely no health nut.
that’s so great your pops made the homemade larabar; and so genius to use a chocolate bar instead of chips – like, duh, right???
i love your analogy with the record, and turning it on the flip side. i love my vinyl!!!
I think it’s so cute that your dad made his own Larabar! I always love it when my healthy habits rub off on the people I care about, and while my parents haven’t gone as far as to make their own bars, they’ve started asking for things like yogurt messes, and I think I’ve definitely got them hooked on almond butter and coconut
I really loved what you said about flipping the side when you start to sound like a broken record, and singing the tune of believing in yourself. It seems like I have so many ideas of things that I want to do, but that’s all they remain… ideas. And I think a lot of that comes down to the fact that I lack confidence in myself, and I don’t think I can do what I dream. Thank you for bringing this to light
And for being a motivation.
<3
What a great opening paragraph. I am in a place in my life where I’m trying to figure out what exactly I want to do and how I can make that happen. There are so many degrees and certifications out there it’s hard to know which ones will get you the job of your dreams. I recently decided I just need to start making baby steps just to get the ball rolling.
I miss you. When you come back to richmond we HAVE TO get together and cook.
What a great opening paragraph. I am in a place in my life where I’m trying to figure out what exactly I want to do and how I can make that happen. There are so many degrees and certifications out there it’s hard to know which ones will get you the job of your dreams. I recently decided I just need to start making baby steps to get the ball rolling.
You always look so stylish. I need to get some fashion lessons from you or take you shopping with me.
PS I miss you. When you come back to richmond we HAVE TO get together and cook.
Soo you are basically amazing, K!
For real. You are so talented! I LOVE YOUR FASHION!! you have such a gift to see fashion piece by piece. it just always works for you! you could put on a trashbag and I would think it looked good, like seriously!
And your creative eats! Goodness gracious. I would love to have your mind for a day
You have such an amazing future ahead of yourself girl! love you
You are such an inspiration, girl! I loved reading this post…it’s really something I needed to hear, I too have been struggling with the same thoughts lately.
Good finds on the books! I borrowed that SAME Ayurvedic cookbook from a client a few months ago..loved it…need to get my own copy! THRIVE is on my reading list, but have like 3 book I need to get through first!!
Friday means to me….it means…Yey, it’s the Freakin’ Weekend I’m gonna have me some fun
Have a great weekend!xo
Great eats and recipes, thanks for sharing girl! And I loved your first words in this post, so true! I just KNOW you will find the future that suits you the best and there will be so many positive and beautiful things to come!
xxx Julia (Taste of Living)
Coconut bliss looks SO good!!!! Hope I can find it here! And I am now dead set on making my own larabar…just hope my food processor/blender? is up to the job!!!!
Love the insightful introduction, Katharina:) Made me feel better about myself, just reading it!
The first part of your post really spoke to me. So true! I keep on thinking of all these things I’d like to do or wish I could do instead of putting them into action. Time to get moving!
Yum homemade larabars! Love those.
Aww I love the idea of thinking of your qualities as bridges! And that little coconut bliss storybook looks too cute. I am loving your outfit; why are you so trendy?! I need to borrow a note from you…!
I love Fridays…knowing that i don’t have to worry or stress about school the next day! i don’t usually do anything special on a friday! just sit in my house and RELAX! friday’s are always eagerly anticipated in my house…….they aren’t as amzing as Saturdays though!!
i’m not a huge fan of coconut flavour, however that ice cream looks so smooth and creamy and just rather delicious! yum!
the lady was right, that is a really pretty necklace! i also love your top! xx
Great post!!!!
Friday- nights are always my TV and relaxing evenings…. a lot of people like to go out on friday, I prefer staying at home and relaxing or going to the cinema
Oh man, Peter Reinhart is a genius. Have you baked anything from Whole Grain Breads yet?? That book is FABULOUS!!
The breads honestly taste so good. His delayed fermentation process is genius. Did I mention he’s a genius?
Wow. I love this post.
I, too, am wrestling with a boatload of creative ideas and wondering how to bring them to fruition.
Also:
LOVES the outfit.
And the food? Heading to the kitchen…
I’ve been dying to try the coconut bliss line.
Love your outfit! (as usual)
Dana xo
http://happinessiswithin.wordpress.com/
Hi Beautiful!! I have been meaning to leave you a comment for like 36 hrs now!! where has the weekend gone?!!
Anyway, thank you for the super sweet words about me
and so glad that you liked the ” spicy doritos” dip!! yes, a vita will get it super smooth but sometimes a lil texture like yours is really nice, too!
Your opening paragraph…beautiful! Your brain never.shuts.off. Nor does mine! Always thinking and pondering.
Anyway my love, thank you for the beautiful comment you left me the other day…and here’s to you and your dad making lots more laras! and I hope the same for skylar and scott one day!
xoxoxoxo
YOU WILL LOVE THE THRIVE DIET!
actually i really hope you will- i thought it had some of the best recipes in it! gotta try the date-almond-and carob smoothie (cant remember the exact name) but its SO GOOD! and his pizzas are fantastic!
i used to be such a mime with my thoughts and wants and needs. or i never trusted myself to tell people what i wanted to do or be because i always doubted if i would follow through. the moment we let go of those thoughts and let ourselves own those beliefs, theres magic that occurs! its seriously liberating and trusting all at the same time!
xoxo <3 <3
I love your optimistic attitude! I too can leave the library with arm loads of books. The way my eyes can be bigger than my stomach, my eyes are bigger than the amount of books I can read at a time, if that makes any sense. I heard Thrive is an excellent read, enjoy! I hope you share your bar recipe once you perfect it!
“It’s very rare that the things you want just magically appear in your lap, so what are you waiting for? ”
aiiiiint that the truth!!! i just made that connection and my butt is gonna be signing up for volunteering, charity and making dates with people!
you should read this review of the china study, and read up on the book called “the vegetarian myth”
http://freetheanimal.com/2010/07/the-china-study-smackdown-roundup.html
such a gorgeous, fabulous world you surround yourself with – and i LOVE that!
your last three posts have been filled with the most amazing, colorful and delicious looking foods. seriously, i don’t know how you come up with these things.
and i need to know where you got that colorful necklace – simply adorable.
when germany lost, i thought about you, and how much better it would be if we drowned our sorrows in their loss together drinking beer. right?
hope you had a lovely weekend my dear katharina – make it a great week!
p.s. i LOVED your opening and the fact our skills are bridges. i want so much to happen, but sometimes i forget i am the one who needs to do that. thank you for the reminder
The coconut bliss icecream looks amazing!!! I need to try that! I always see that brand at Whole Foods!
I love wearing accesories with my outfits too! I love your necklace, so pretty, and it is great to get compliments, I love when I do on what Im wearing, I feel like a fashionista!
Too cool your dad made his own home made bars! U must be rubbing off on your parents, and the bar he made looks so yum!!! As I said a million times, your parents rock!
Love you girl!! xoxo
The in a jar concept is so blog famous. I think anything pureed/mush and eaten in a waning jar tastes better than if it were eaten on its own.
oh i LOVE your necklace!!! where did you get that?? It is beautiful!!