Oh Happy Day

Posted on February 19, 2010 by Katharina

Before I say anything in this post I just want to give a warm welcome to some new readers! I am so glad that you all have found my blog and may it bring a smile to your face. So if you’re a reader and haven’t said hello, please don’t be shy. I love discovering new blogs and learning more about all the interesting folks out there! So let’s all dive right in, shall we?

: Leftover pasta + manchego

Simply stated, I am a lover of cheese.

: One of my best friends surprised me with a little Valentine gift!

: Crispy, milky, and deliciously sweet.

Now that we’re on the topic of chocolate, and I happen to be sitting on a throne made of decadent chocolate, it’s only natural to share!

: 3400 Phinney Hazelnut Crunch

Wow! Can’t quite recall when the last time was that I bit into a milk chocolate bar with such a great flavor. The crunchy hazelnut, the sweet milky chocolate, and the subtle salty twist won me over with the first bite.

Coconut Curry milk chocolate

Stained wrapper

Wonderfully complex. The curry flavor wasn’t just from the curry powder, but rather a blend of coriander, turmeric, mustard, cumin, fenugreek, paprika, red pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. So you can imagine…

More leftovers!

It’s amazing what one can do with leftovers. I used the rest of the angel hair pasta for this dish. I sauteed some mushrooms with onions and then simmered them in a tomato sauce with balsamic vinegar. Using the rest of the sage and pumpkin seed crust mix I made awhile ago, I dredged some tofu in it and baked it till it was nice and crispy on the outside. I also tossed in some pine nuts and the very very last of the sage and pumpkin seed mix.

Delicious!

Now I ALWAYS pack snacks for on-the-go, because you never know when hunger may strike!

More spicy black bean burger goodness.

I only have one bean burger left! This one I had with roasted red pepper, onions, ketchup, cilantro, pepper jelly, and melted manchego.

I got home from my night class and I just wanted something comforting so I made a cup of hot cocoa with creamy, thick almond milk.

With a warm cranberry Heart Thrive topped with coconut butter.

The last of the manchego put to great use!

I made a sandwich on this delicious bread (has dried cranberries, sprouted grains, and various nuts and seeds). I filled it with melted manchego, pepper jelly, roasted red pepper, onions, and sweet basil. I also decided to sprinkle on some nutritional yeast on the kale.

Close up was in order.

Then it was time to take my dad to airport.

It's not goodbye, just see you later!

I came home, relaxed, and got ready for a date!

We went to his favorite place... a little Vietnamese restaurant.

The woman already knew his order!

A big bowl of vegetarian pho.

I’m usually not a fan of brothy soups, I prefer thick purees. I tried his soup though and I would definitely order it for myself next time I go there. I thought it was really cool that the plate full of herbs, sprouts, and lime wedges were to rip apart and put in the soup; as much or as little as you’d like because not everyone’s tastes are the same.

I ordered fried tofu in a sweet and spicy lemongrass sauce with steamed rice.

The place may seem like a hole in a wall, but lots of times those restaurants have the best food! There’s a place down the street actually that serves Korean food and I swear the owner is a mother to everyone. If you’re sick she’ll give you extra helpings. These places seem so cozy that you could eat there alone and just hang out for hours. As for the date, it went well, but no romantic sparks. However, I’m going to keep hanging out with him because I think he’s a good friend and you never know what could happen!

Tiramisu for breakfast anyone?

I tried to recreate one of my favorite desserts in oatmeal form after seeing all of Katie’s creative recipes on her blog. Seriously, this little lady is endlessly creative and she has so much positive energy I can feel it through her words! I cooked my oatmeal in chocolate protein powder and instant coffee. Since I didn’t have mascarpone I subbed in some cream cheese, and added that while the oats were cooking. I topped it with coconut butter, more coffee granules, and a lady finger. Not quite like tiramisu but definitely reminiscent; delicious nonetheless!

On this sunny and re-energizing day I decided to tackle some recipes I had been eyeing for quite some time.

Those recipes, my dears, come straight from The Conscious Cook. I took a break from this book for awhile because I missed making up my own things.

Tomato bisque--another recipe of Chef Tal's that calls for cashew cream.

And focaccia with caramelized onions.

For the focaccia I opted to do 50/50 unbleached all-purpose flour and whole wheat. The dough ended up being enough for two large loaves. One for me and one for my roommate! Might I also add… I’m just going to say it flat out: this was my favorite meal all week and I don’t think anything can top it. Nope, can’t even try. The tomato soup was thick and full of flavors from the herbs and bay leaf it simmered with. I ripped off another piece of the bread to scoop up the very last drops of my soup. Foodgasm at it’s finest. And a pat on the back for me… on both sides! Seriously, I’ve forgotten how amazing and satisfying homemade bread is. As I was kneading it, I was reminded of how much fun the process is.

Speaking of being proud of myself, I came across a very inspiring post that Maggie wrote about believing. Click here to check it out. Her message really resonated with me and I felt it throughout the whole day as the sun was giving off it’s glorious and comforting rays. Wow, it’s not even Friday and I’m already celebrating! I hope you’re all in the same boat. Where should we sail?

Good Intentions and Spreading Love

Posted on February 15, 2010 by Katharina

Hello hello everyone! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and got to spend it with someone they love one way or another. On Friday night I definitely danced the stress away and made a couple new friends while I was at it. Actually, one of them is a girl that just moved from Miami–we were representing the Miami hotness on the dance floor for sure.

A simple breakfast after a night of dancing: oatmeal cooked the usual way, cinnamon, diced apple, and Sunland's caramel peanut butter.

My dad and I went back to the Urban Farmhouse to grab some lunch.

This time we talked to the woman who opened Urban Farmhouse. You could tell she was passionate about what she was doing and just wants to offer the best. It was interesting to hear her plans for the place and we gave her some constructive criticism as well. That’s the great thing about places that just opened–they’re more than willing to hear what the customers have to say. I ordered the Candied Walnut Gorgonzola Salad and the Farmer’s Grilled Cheese with Black Winter Truffle Oil (Gruyere cheese). Both were delicious and I loved the candied walnuts in the salad. Biting into the sandwich and tasting the earthy black truffle oil was so satisfying. Who doesn’t love things that are full of flavor?! They also have a big jar of complimentary animal crackers that I happily helped myself to.

My dad ordered the Tangy Curry Tuna Salad sandwich

Candied Walnut Gorgonzola Salad and the Farmer’s Grilled Cheese with Black Winter Truffle Oil

My dad has been reading up a lot on spirituality, energy, levels of things we can’t see, guides, etc. Anyway, most of what he’s been reading has led him to the idea of putting good intentions out there and accepting the ways of the universe. I really think this is the most fulfilling way to live life. Oftentimes people forget that we are only in control of ourselves and nothing else. If things go our way then it’s something that was supposed to happen and falls under determinism—it wasn’t really up to us. We were just a part of the cause. Okay so before I go off on a tangent I want to share a few things that happened.

I took my dad to the store to get his phone fixed and on the way back someone one lane over all of a sudden started to drive in reverse very quickly. Then they rolled their window down and told me I had a complete flat. Oh great. Then on Broad someone else notified us. Side note to everyone: these potholes are killer so beware! Anyway we pulled over to a tire store around 4:17 and they closed at 4:00. The owner was incredibly helpful and offered a spare to get us over to someone who would take us in for service. Unfortunately no one could but he decided to take the job. Then my dad and I were debating on walking to Trader Joe’s from the tire shop. The owner pulled out a key and said, “go outside and this is for a Toyota Tundra. Trader Joe’s is a little ways up there to your right.” Wow. I believe that my dad’s good intentions and realignment of his guides is doing something greater for him than ever expected. I honestly don’t think this was a coincidence. The whole day I was riding on these incredibly positive vibes coming from everyone. Do you know what it’s like to have people throw genuine smiles at you everywhere you look? It was that kind of day!

While running some errands I picked up some very special things!

I spotted a jar of Artisana’s Coconut Butter and a pint of Almond Pecan “ice cream”. Both are incredibly delicious. I have been putting the coconut butter on almost everything!

The sandwich obviously left an impression on me because I also got some truffle oil; and I'm always on the lookout for a good pasta sauce.

Last time I got the Almond Breeze milk the machine printed out a coupon for a FREE half gallon of Silk's almond milk.

Free? You know I was on that. It was way creamier than Almond Breeze but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact this probably would work as a better creamer than thinner milk alternatives. The taste was still yummy too!

Something else new to my tastebuds.

Now I can officially say that I’ve tried all the Sunshine Burger flavors. This time I tried the Garden Herb veggie burger. This has the same ingredients as the Original veggie burger, but the Garden Herb is organic and probably has more herbs and carrots because it did taste different.

In a bun with ketchup, vegan mayo, red onions, and a last minute decision: red bell pepper slices.

Also tried the Vanilla 3400 Phinney milk chocolate bar.

Yummy but I didn't really taste the vanilla flavor.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be for those who have that someone special. It can be fun for everyone if you let it.

Started off Valentine's Day with a bowl of love.

Chocolate oatmeal + a medley of berries + sliced banana + coconut butter. The coconut butter looks like icing!

Had Dad over for lunch--excuse my crowded table!

I made a recipe sent Liz sent to me.

Here’s the recipe folks! This recipe has all the components of things I love–especially kale. I have been on such a kale kick lately. However, since I didn’t have ricotta on hand I just made the cashew ricotta recipe from the Veganomicon. This meal was such a cinch to make!

My roommate gave me a dark chocolate heart... Matilda obviously doesn't know that's poison for her!

Another kiss I took from the auto shop the day before hehehe! But that one is for you all!

Shoes on the left for my dinner date with Dad and shoes on the right were for the day.

And I finally wore the skirt I got months ago!

Perfect for a fun, young, and single lady on Valentine's Day!

Throw on a scarf and a coat, and I'm good to go!

We decided to go to a restaurant that we'd both been curious about for years!

Bistro 27 features Italian and French cuisine.

Best date, my dad!

I promise if you go on a date with me you won't have to have your friend call with a fake emergency!

I loved the high ceilings and open-air environment.

Our waiter offered to take a picture of us!

To start off my dad got the Capesante with Bacon--Jumbo scallops wrapped in smoked bacon and served over red lentils.

And I started off with the Twenty Seven Bistro Salad--Baby lettuces, candied walnuts, sliced Bosc pears, gorgonzola cheese, red onions, and tomatoes tossed in honey vinaigrette

The salad was delicious! Can you tell I’m loving gorgonzola and candied walnuts? A seriously delicious and classic salad.

Complimentary focaccia bread with their housemade tomato-basil sauce.

My dad ordered one of their specials: the beef tenderloin topped with strawberries and a strawberry reduction + garlic mashed potatoes + veggies.

And I ordered Capellini con Vegetali e Pomodoro--Angel hair pasta with julienne vegetables and 27’s tomato sauce

Pasta twirlinggg action!

With parmesan please!

And on the day of love I decided to give a lonely brussel sprout another chance.

I was in elementary school the last time I tried brussel sprouts and I just remembered thinking they tasted like a fart. Yes, a fart! But this time around I actually liked it, but I decided that I would like it better seasoned and roasted with balsamic vinegar. The pasta was okay, I did love the chunks of tomato though. But the salad definitely outshone the pasta. We skipped dessert because “someone special” said he had a treat for me. Well turns out that he wanted to postpone and frankly I was upset at that point. Why make plans with someone if you can’t actually follow through? After I said “no” he proceeded to tell me what he had gotten me. I’m sorry but I am not the kind of person to simply be won over by gifts. I’d much rather have my feelings and thoughts be considered, and know that someone actually wants to spend their time with me. Overall though my Valentine’s Day was great and spent with some of the people that I truly care about. It was also nice to just spread the positive energy on a beautiful day.

Out and About

Posted on January 16, 2010 by Katharina

K for Katharina

I found a delicious yogurt...

I still have a few freebie coupons from Oikos left and I was on the hunt for the strawberry flavor. Much to my delight I finally found it! I couldn’t wait to try to it because the blueberry one was great. So what’d I think? This was so good! Sometimes those fruit at the bottom yogurts taste really artificial and have a strange texture. But this blended so well with the tart and creamy Greek yogurt. Now I’m on the search for the caramel flavor!

Another recipe from The Conscious Cook

Asian Tacos with Kinpira and Spinach-Sesame Salad

I didn’t follow this recipe exactly, but it still came out delicious. I didn’t shape the won tons like tacos because I didn’t feel like it, and I substituted rutabaga for burdock root. I also used kale instead of spinach for the side salad. The seitan was cooked with freshly grated ginger and garlic and other various flavor enhancing items. This was such a satisfying lunch. Partly because it felt like a mini-project since there were so many steps.

Me and my roommate started finally decorating the living room!

And she also baked something

Cottage cheese muffins from 101 Cookbooks

These had cottage cheese, parmesan, almond flour, sun-dried tomatoes, eggs, and basil. I surprisingly liked them because I usually don’t like eggy things. However, this did cause my stomach to act up. Eggs + Katharina = Indigestion.

Tada!

Went with one of my favorite ladies to see a salsa band play at this eco-chic restaurant called Balliceaux.

The band

That night, right before the last song, a man asked me if I wanted to dance. That was the first time I said yes. I’m glad I did because I danced salsa in a way I’ve never danced it before. The music and the setting had a great vibe and I felt on top of the world. Being up front and feeling the beat of the conga and the song being brought to life by the playful trumpet, I felt it in my soul and out through my feet. I noticed that I had been smiling so much that my mouth got dry… I could feel the sweat forming in the creases of my pants. He had me doing triple turns and then go right back to the swing of things at the very front. Then the final song ended with a dip but the thrill lasted and left me wide awake at 2:30 in the morning.

I came home to make some hot chocolate with the marshmallows Maya sent me--in my special cup!

Inspired cinnamon breakfast

When I saw Sam’s bowl of cream of wheat I knew I had to have a bowl for myself soon. It looks kind of funky because I used a vanilla protein powder that has spirulina. This was so delicious. I topped it with a diced apple, Sunland’s caramel peanut butter, granola, and homemade cinnamon-sugar wonton crisps.

I have been in the mood for salads!

I guess Florida left me craving fresh foods! I made a salad with romaine, corn, Southwest Sunshine burger topped with Sun-dried tomato mustard, and BBQ sauce. Yum!

A dog and a cat!

To celebrate my dad’s birthday we were invited to a family friend’s home for dinner. How sweet of them to have us over!

My dad and his favorite... salmon!

Knowing I love my vegetables--they made a delicious salad, and baked some biscuits on the side.

The orange blob is the most delicious sweet potato mash. It’s the one I made before from “The Conscious Cook”. It has sweet potato, cashew cream, chipotle pepper, butter (Earth Balance if you’re vegan), and s&p. I think this is my favorite mash.

Dinner time!

She was trying to open the jar of Red Pepper Jelly she got from Alabama.

Never had it before but it always sounded interesting--it was like a sweet and spicy sauce.

The chef and his dessert!

His pie turned out wonderfully! It was so fresh tasting and had such a great lime flavor.

Posin'

"Smell it!"

He fell for it hahaha! Sucker!

Afterwards I met up with some friends at a bar.

And I took my first shot of tequila with "training wheels".

Only with my lady!

Last night I had two people offer to cook for me! What a treat!

This does not happen often so I happily agreed. Well, I made a compromise. I decided to have dinner with the girls and then later I would go to my other friend’s place for dessert.

The bottom half--and the lone slipper in the back.

When I arrived at my friend’s house I got a text from yet another friend asking if I wanted to go to this awesome Cuban restaurant a couple blocks down. Was there a blue moon or something? Three dinner invitations in one night? Sadly, I had to turn down the last one.

Waiting like little kids for "mommy" to cook us dinner.

She made us a seasoned pasta dish with mushrooms, feta, parmesan, and caesar dressing.

I brought some seasoned seitan and sprinkled some dill weed on top + Sugar Cookie tea!

I have a love-hate relationship with Jack the cat.

Then she offered to make us dessert!

Banana bruleed in a brown sugar sauce + vanilla ice cream + chocolate chips (but the rum was missing) = BEST MOM EVER RECIPE!!!

She knows how to take care of her babies.

Then I went to my other friend's house for dessert and wine.

Spiced pear compote with maple syrup. When I say spiced I don't just mean cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. There was also cayenne!

There was some leftoever and I had it with part of my breakfast. Guess what? My friend made me breakfast too! I had a bowl of cooked homemade grain mix with sunflower seed butter and the spiced pear compote + more maple syrup. I also had an orange and tried my first meyer lemon. It was actually really delicious and nice to have someone make me something for a change. Don’t get me wrong–I love to cook, but sometimes I like to be treated to. Who doesn’t?

Well this was my first week back in Richmond and I must say it’s been full of fun and has left me anticipating this upcoming semester. AHHHHHHH!!! I hope you all had a wonderful week. I’m going to have to catch up on all you lovely people’s lives now.

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.

New York Recap Part 1

Posted on August 20, 2009 by Katharina

Ladies and gents, and now what you’ve all been waiting for!

I took a break from posting any entries on my blog, but I’ve been trying to keep with all of you guys! So many things going on. Especially since my semester starts tomorrow. Ack!

Anyway, let’s get to the nitty gritty of this post, shall we?

: On the way to New York, stopping in DC.

So as I mentioned in my previous post, my trip started off on a crazy foot. Crazy indeed! Luckily, I was able to refresh myself when I finally arrived at my friend’s, Liz, place. After that, her loverboy came over and we just walked around her neighborhood in Brooklyn – Williamsburg.

: Liz is very lucky to have a backyard in Brooklyn – and it’s big!

: We walked to a nearby bakery.

: Buying some bread to break with friends.

As we were walking around, we just tore pieces off the loaf of ciabatta. So good!

: Walk, talk, and eat at the same time.

: Oh heyy! Check out the juggler to my right.

We walked through a couple parks and decided to sit by a softball game. Liz is in love with every dog in the world, so she was having a great time at the park. If anyone knows of any pet adoption agencies in New York, please let me know!

: They’re so cute!

After walking around and just hanging out till there was no more sun, we came home and Liz got to working on dinner. She’s Italian so of course she made pasta!

: Looking at Shaun.

: Looking in love!

: Stirring it all together.

: Sangria and a Jollyrancher!

: We had a candlelit dinner in the backyard.

: Penne with vodka sauce, broccoli, and cannellini beans.

After dinner Liz invited some friends over and we played this game called for Botticelli literally 6 hours. It’s this crazy guessing game, but we didn’t play it the “real” way. We didn’t use personal pronouns at all, but it could pretty much be any word we could think of. Later in the night, Liz’s friend – which she claims to be her hottest friend from the batch – came over. Oh my!!! He was so good-looking and reminded me of a hot pirate. I actually flirted a bit, which is unusual for me. I usually have a hard time even looking a guy I’m interested in, in the eyes.

The next day we headed to a free concert out by the Waterfront. But before I left, I whipped up something really fast.

: I added some Kashi cereal for some sweetness and crunch!

: And I used this bomb-ass dressing from Trader Joe’s.

: Liz and Shaun working it.

: Uh oh!

: We stopped by this place called Pennylicks.

You get a scoop of ice cream for $1. They have vegan flavors as well! I tried the vegan chocolate chip cookie dough since it’s Liz’s favorite. It was so good and the place’s decor was endearing. They had little funny signs everywhere.

: The Waterfront.

It was kind of annoying getting into this place. I had to dump out my water and we all ate our apples. Luckily, I was able to hide my bar at the bottom of my bag. When we went to get in again, one of the security guards swore he recognized me from somewhere. I told him I wasn’t from New York and then he introduced himself. Sounds like he was just trying to pick me up!

: Sitting by the water with the cityscape in front of us.

: Being cute once again!

: Meet Shaun!

We played Botticelli for another couple of hours. Shaun got us hooked! After we were over sitting, we went to get $1 pizza slices.

: At the pizza place.

Later on we went into the city and walked around Union Square. Of course we made a stop at Trader Joe’s. I’ve never seen a Trader Joe’s that was as busy! And I was also surprised that the prices were just as low as they usually are. So after we each got out groceries we headed back home.

So guys, that’s it for the first two days of my stay in New York. Trust me, it got more exciting as the week progressed. I did my fair share of exploring, and by the end of this trip I was ready to call this city my home! Thank goodness it’s not too far, so I can visit more often. That is… if school doesn’t get too crazy. Stay tuned for Part 2!

By the way for all you ice-cream lovers out there. Check out this vegan ice cream!

p.s. Zoe’s Food has a discount on Amazon

p.s.s. Checkout Katie’s amazing Spiralizer Giveaway

When Your Alarm doesn’t Go Off

Posted on August 9, 2009 by Katharina

So I’m posting from my friend’s apartment in New York right now. I swear, I feel right at home! Her new place is absolutely adorable and she actually has a backyard in Brooklyn. Lucky Liz!

I took the bus yesterday and the five minutes before my bus departed were insane. My departure time was 7:30 am. Kim walked into my room in the morning and asked if that was the time the bus was leaving, then she told me that it was 7:25. WHAT?! I rolled out of bed, threw some clothes, grabbed my food I had ready the night before and bolted out the door. I didn’t even say bye to Matilda! We definitely pulled a Little Miss Sunshine to make it to the pick-up spot on time. We were a bit late, but I still made it. Then I realized my shirt was on backwards. Now if you ever feel sleepy, this is a sure way to wake you up! The bus didn’t have a sink so I had to go almost the whole day without washing my face, brushing my teeth… nothing. I arrived in Chinatown and walked around for a bit with my luggage and yoga mat. It felt like I was starting a new life. Then I picked up a cab and it was a pleasant ride over the bridge into Brooklyn. The driver and I were talking about how nice of a day it was. We had the windows down and at one of the stoplights, there was a park right next to us and some people were laughing it up, then James Brown came on their boombox – it really felt like summertime. I told the cab driver that we stopped at the right time and both started singing along “get on up!”

I probably won’t be posting here, but who knows. My friend has a job, so I do have plenty of alone time. I sense lots of adventures in the very near future.

Moreover, thanks for all the compliments on my new place! It’s funny how I just moved in, yet I’m already out of town. I tried to get as much done as I could before I left. I can’t wait to get back either though to start decorating the common space. I’d also like to thank Holly for asking me to write a guest post on her blog. I seriously love this gal and she’s such an amazing person! It was so much fun writing it and reading people’s responses. I’m glad you guys enjoyed reading it, and I know I enjoyed reading the others’ posts as well.

The night before I went to New York, Richmond was having another First Friday. So I went with my roommate, friends, and Matilda to see what was going on in the galleries. I also ordered my bus tickets and packed my things!

The show I was mentioned in a previous post called Skull-a-Day: 365 days of skull artwork.

Check out that crazy, carved pencil!

Not only is there talent in the galleries, but on the sidewalks as well.

All girl band!

Some old guy said the word "titties" as soon as he saw this hahaha!

Cutest gallery called Quirk.

Super intense showing full of prints.

My favorite print: Be Blatent, Be Emotional, Risk Everything.

Here are a few things I’ve been doing in the new kitchen:

Fresh strawberries are so delicious! Especially with cream cheese.

Cinnamon raisin toast with various toppings. Yogurt with sliced strawberries and pumpkin butter.

My favorite combo with the toast was the peanut butter with extra raisins!

Now here are some snackies since I munch throughout the day.

A refreshing bowl of raspberries and pumpkin butter over yogurt.

My friend gave me a freshly baked scone.

So before I went to bed I had it with tea, and topped it with pumpkin butter, homemade blueberry jam and some vanilla fro-yo. Some more baked goods from a local bakery:

Half-eaten slices of zucchini and challah bread.

I LOVE coconut milk!

Some yummy cashews.

I tried some “exotic cashews” by Kazana Whole Foods. The flavors were Sweet-n-Sour and Himalayan Secret. Both are so good! I love cashews, but these cashews had some flavorful oomph to them.

I also tried some new condiments.

There’s this brand called Terrapin Ridge that makes some incredible sauces. I highly recommend their Carrot, Ginger, and Miso Salad Squeeze. The other day at the store I saw a bottle of their Brewery Mustard on sale, so I got one to try. Definitely tasted the beer, but I definitely did not mind! The jar of peanut butter for dipping my giant carrot in.

I was able to use the stove in peace as well and made one of my favorite things to go on top of pasta – lentil bolognese! I follow that recipe, but I didn’t add in the celery and I replaced the marjoram with tarragon.

The tarragon gave it an incredible sweet aroma.

Yum!

Boxes make for great impromptu tables, and kale chips make even better sides!

Leftovers are way better! I also added some coconut oil this time and it was awesome.

Some decorating I got done before I left for New York.

So my butt is sore from sitting, and I need to get my day started. I hope you all enjoy the rest of your weekend and the upcoming week. Take care friends!

The Art of Savoring

Posted on July 8, 2009 by Katharina

Thank you all for the compliments on my outfit! And I wish I could’ve shared the view with you guys. Pictures are kind of like sharing, right? Now here’s something for you to feast your eyes on:

I wanted to make something special with the little treasures I found the other day. I decided to start my day with a delicious bowl of overnight oats with the figs. I wanted to share the goodness so I made a bowl for my mom too! Aren’t they beautiful? Almost as beautiful as Eliza and Maya (thanks for the idea, girls). Now I can vouch for the brilliance of fresh figs in oatmeal. I was also inspired by the recipe for those yummy Sicilian fig cookies! Which meant that in this bowl I put in some golden raisins, lemon zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, fresh figs, and honey. Since we didn’t have almonds on hand I thought, “hmm that just means I’ll have to use almond butter.” No complaints here! So refreshing and delightful to eat. In the middle of breakfast I decided to cut up a banana and mash it into my bowl. Bananas are never a bad choice in my book.

Grinding my own garam masala.

I find that when you grind your own spices the aroma comes out even more when you’re cooking. Freshly ground cinnamon wafting through the air is such a comforting smell. Everyone will keep asking you with eagerness “when’s dinner ready?”

I was inspired by my favorite dish at my favorite Indian restaurant, India K'raja.

The inspiration is a creamy mango sauce with homemade paneer and cooked with nuts and raisins. My take on it included paneer, pineapple, mango, freshly ground garam masala, and almond bits sprinkled on top. I wish I could’ve made more, but we were short on time and had to make due with what was in the house. Since we’re headed on our vacation today we didn’t want to overload on groceries for the week.

Butternut squash and vanilla risotto

I followed this recipe, and I must say – WOW! Every ingredient in this recipe made this dish perfection in my mouth. I realized I had forgotten the salt, thankfully the saltiness from vegetable stock was enough.

Colorful pasta!

I followed Katie’s alfredo sauce recipe but I added a bit of nutmeg to give it a little oomph. I also chose to make it with tofu rather than agar agar, since that’s what I had on hand. Katie, once again, two thumbs up! I love your creative recipes.

I had some leftover sauce so I figured I could mix it with the beets I roasted last night. This was my first attempt at roasting beets. It wasn’t hard, but it was messy! My fingers temporarily turned pink.

It looks funky! I also threw in some rosemary and a drizzle of honey.

Beets can't help but paint everything pink!

Everytime I eat or drink anything with beets I check my cheeks to see if they’re rosy. I swear if you include beets in your life (a lot of them), they are nature’s blush! It sounds like such an old wives tale, but I’d like to believe it.

What’s your favorite old wives tale?

So what’s with the title of this post? A lot of things have happened in my life that have made me take a step back and realize how precious it really is. Usually I don’t discuss my past (sounds like I’m a member of the mafia), but it seems somewhat appropriate right now. During my last week of high school, my boyfriend at the time, Chip, was killed by a fellow classmate. It was a terrible loss on so many people’s parts. Not just for the people who lost Chip, but also for the family and friends of the boy who took his life away. I’m a firm believer in the idea that things happen for a reason, even if it just straight up sucks. Anyway, that moment in my life led me to reevaluate a lot of things – reevaluating is something I think I do constantly, so it wasn’t a first. But I’ve never had someone that close to me pass away. I became very spiritual because I didn’t want to lose that connection I had with him. He was the first person I fell in love with, so it was hard to let go. Plus it’s too depressing to think that this life is it and there’s nothing afterwards. I’m not sure what the afterlife is all about, but I think there is one. I just remember the last time I saw him I was driving home and we happened to be driving next to each other. It was such a nice surprise. He was going to a meeting so we each went out separate ways. I would’ve never thought that waving him goodbye as he was making that left turn would be the last time I would see him. It just shows how life can be so fleeting. Rather than taking this as a “why me” experience in my life, I took it as more of a reason to appreciate life. It’s hard not to step outside and take a big deep breath, look up at the sky and smile at what’s around me. It’s hard to hush my laughter when I just want to burst! If I feel like dancing, I’ll dance. If I “just don’t feel like it”, I honor that feeling as well. So I guess where I’m getting at is that an important part of life for me is to savor the moment. Life should be good, but sometimes things happen, and these things are a part the journey too. Live and learn, and make the best of it.

He was the kind of person who could do something ordinary in a million different ways. I noticed the patches of grass made a smiley face!

On a lighter note, I know I’ll be making the best of it while I’m away on vacation. I’m excited to give up daily responsibilities, but I’m going to miss Matilda. This is the first time me and the family will all be separated from her. Thankfully, a family friend of ours offered to take care of her while we’re gone. It’s reassuring to me because it’s hard for me to trust people to take care of her. She’s like my little baby.

What are some of the precious things you all savor?

Avocado Mac & “Cheese”

Posted on May 6, 2009 by Katharina

I got this recipe from the Eating Consciously blog.

1 ripe avocado
1 cup white beans
1 cup soy milk
1/2 cup nutritional yeast
1 tbl miso paste*
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 lb whole wheat macaroni (I used spaghetti)
1 cup frozen peas
salt and pepper to taste

Cook pasta and peas then set aside. Put the rest of the ingredients into a food processor. Blend until creamy and smooth. Pour into a saucepan over medium heat to warm slightly. Once warm, toss with cooked peas and macaroni (or other pasta).

*I used a red miso paste.

This was so delicious! I made it again and I’m probably going to make it again when I go back home. I’m so excited about going back to Florida. I won’t be staying the whole summer with my parents because I’m growing up. My mom keeps saying that she’s going to spoil me. Usually it’s really hard for me to just kick back and relax since having my own place. I used to ask my mom for a drink from the kitchen, while I would be seated at the kitchen counter. I was so lazy. Now I’m so use to doing everything myself. So now even when I go home, I make breakfast for everyone. Seems like the tables have turned.

Does anyone have any tips on how to just let go and let someone spoil you?

Katharina's Food Adventures

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