Tag Archives: plantains

I am Worth It

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Here’s a little reminder to all of you from my last post, in case you missed it!

I was contacted by Kroeger Herbs to give you all the opportunity to win a bottle of their Serenity and Healthy Gut herbal combinations. They were kind enough to ask me which of their products I thought you all would benefit from the most. I remembered in one of my past posts that many of you mentioned that unnecessary stress makes its way into your lives, and I also know that many of you also have some tummy issues; so I thought these two products would be great! Now here’s what you have to do to have a chance at winning (yoohoo!):

1. Go to their site and comment on this post telling me something you learned.

Additional entries (don’t forget to comment on this post telling me you did these things):

2. Sign up for their newsletter.

3. Follow them on Facebook.

4. Follow them on Twitter.

Make sure to get your entries in by Friday, August 27. Best of luck everyone!

They also generously offered me some to try for myself!

As a sculpture student and living in an urban area, I think the Energy Food and EnvironmentalX supplements will be very beneficial to me. And who doesn’t have moments of stress? That’s where Serenity comes in. I’ll let you all know what I think of these after I’ve had them for awhile.

Cold oats with warm hot cocoa made with coconut milk

In my eyes coconuts can do no wrong, especially when using their milk to make hot cocoa.

Lately, I've been feeling like I'm on cloud nine.

Bouncing around cloud nine = cooking mojo featuring farmer's market finds!

I cooked some onions and garlic with turmeric, then threw in some beans, tomatoes, and kale. Then when the heat was lowered was when the olive oil, shredded mango chutney, and tamarind chutney decided to join in on the party! Cilantro for garnish, but then I decided to eat it separately since it didn’t go well with this. The real stars of this though are those adorable tomatoes! I got a bowl of them at the market for $1.00.

Lately, I’ve been trying to make a more conscious decision about who my money is going to. This leads me to that realization that I may be spending a little more than usual. When I’m away at school, I feel like I’m on a financial… leash? But you know what? It’s one thing to be mindful of my purchases, but another to incessantly feel like I have to justify everything I get. While I was down in Florida, I didn’t feel this sort of pressure because my parents were there “okaying” everything. For instance, I bought organic things (dirty dozen, anyone?) and there was no second-guessing. This pressure I put on myself comes from me not having a job and being 100% financially dependent on my parents. A friend pointed out though that she’s in the same situation, but it’s not like she doesn’t work hard. She’s right, and I do work hard! Okay, so I’m going to stop rambling and leave it at that. Whatever. I am worth it. Not to mention, when I’m buying something straight from the farmer… well, it’s no longer just about me. It’s about community and helping one another in some shape or form.

Biked down to one of the local farmer's markets with a friend.

Some of the vendors have been doing this for decades (one of them for more than a generation) and they can use their own hands as scales--and I'm pretty sure they're not gipping me.

But back to tomatoes; they are also good for liver health. Tomatoes have a detoxification effect in the body. Probably it is due to the presence of chlorine and sulfur in tomatoes. ”Actually, in the United States, more tomatoes are consumed than any other single fruit or vegetable. Tomatoes far outdistance oranges, potatoes, lettuce, peas, carrots, and bananas!“Although in ayurveda they are generally avoided because they are a nightshade food, meaning they have aggravating qualities. Afterall, tomatoes used to be known as “wolf peaches”. Maybe that’s why the Italian men howl at all of the pretty ladies who walk by! Anyway, I had tried to reduce my tomato consumption, but you know what? I’m not the kind of person who strictly follows one philosophy. These are ideas, some of them make sense, and some of them will just never float my boat. But I also read that not all people in ayurveda are sensitive to the nightshade foods. However, people suffering from these conditions are advised to avoid them: arthritis, eczema, acid reflux disease, cystitis, lupus, and psoriasis. I also wanted to share an interesting article I found written by Junji Takano, a Japanese health researcher: “Tomatoes and Its Medicinal Properties“.

Goodies!

I need more plantains in my life pronto!

It’s funny how much more you appreciate something you haven’t had in awhile. A serious revival and a delicious reunion! I fried some plantains with beans, sea salt, thyme, shredded mango chutney, and coconut oil. Then I served over some romaine, and other veggies. Really simple. I realized that I use onions in practically all of my cooking, and I found out that they reduce kidney and liver damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar level. I just don’t advise taking a bite out a raw onion bulb.

Recently, I decided to use my secret oat bar recipe and make something fun like muffins instead!

Proof that we eat with our eyes first, because these just magically seem to taste better!

I’ve already made a couple batches so I can just grab-n-go-go-go. My classes finally start up tomorrow and I am so excited! I have a Human Spirituality class in the early morning and a Contact Improv dance class right after. Wish me luck!

I Keep Asking Questions, and It’s a Good Thing

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Wow! I am so thankful to have such supportive and kind friends. It was also encouraging to be reminded that our most beautiful quality is our soul. And you know what else is awesome? I hear that some of you may be in the same boat, and are really interested to see how this works out. I’m excited that with my posts I’ll be able to keep you guys updated on my progress! I’ll also be incorporating some information throughout my posts. How about I start out the post with some information I stumbled upon recently that I’d like to share with you all:

“Omega 3 fatty acids, a type of unsaturated fat, lowers heart disease and stroke risk by decreasing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, slowing down the growth of artery-clogging plaques, and lowering blood pressure. Omega 3’s have also been shown to help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, and may possibly help with memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. There is some evidence to show that it reduces depression as well. In addition to being an excellent source of omega-3s, fish is low in saturated fat, and is a good source of protein. Omega-3s are most prevalent in fatty, cold-water fish. Other forms of omega 3’s are available in fortified eggs, flax seed (linseed), and walnuts.“

I always heard my parents talk about omega-3′s, but I never really took anything to heart. Now I’m incorporating it into my food in ways that I find flavorful, and I can’t wait to see the benefits in the long run. It’s funny because I often hear people say that the way I eat is healthy. I guess it’s true, but I think a lot of it comes from growing up in a family and in cultures where people cook with real food. I remember when I first moved to the United States and my step-dad brought home packages of Hamburger Helper and instant mashed potato. Of course they have “instant-foods” everywhere, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a heavy reliance on them as I have here. Anyway, I’m pretty sure that’s when I became a picky-eater because I went from having mashed potatoes made from scratch to these bizarre looking flakes that were weak  tasting in comparison. Fortunately, now that I’ve ventured into the wonderful world of cooking, I’ve become far more adventurous with what I eat. And you all know I’m all about what tastes good! So now that I’m really trying to strengthen my liver I’ve become more conscious of what I should be doing right now to take care of it. And you know what? I’m actually finding it to be more of a relief than a stressor. For instance, I’ll look up different foods I have in the kitchen and how they may affect my liver. More likely than not, my liver benefits from it. Take peaches for example…

The magical floating bowl!

Peaches, golden flax, and pumpkin seed butter over some Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and oats.

“Peaches are great for those with gastrointestinal problems and liver conditions. As opposed to many fruits, they are very useful for digestion due to its alkaline content.“

The best mango from someone's backyard, the tastiest peach, and sweet cherries all in one bowl sprinkled with ground golden flax seeds over Greek yogurt and chia seeds.

On the toast I spread some pumpkin seed butter and fig preserves on one slice, then ghee and fig preserves on the other. The slice with ghee and preserves tasted so good because of the sweet and salty flavors going on!

A picture from a past post, but I wanted to show you again.

Ghee is clarified butter, and in India it’s highly regarded! I actually learned more about it in my Hinduism class, and how it’s considered a holy food. I found a source that kind of sums it up: “Ghee builds the aura, makes all the organs soft, builds up the internal juices of the body-Rasa, which are destroyed by aging and increases the most refined element of digestion-Shukra or Ojas, the underlying basis of all immunity and the ‘essence of all bodily tissues’.” Here’s a link with more information on it–very interesting stuff to read.

Breakfast drama queen shot!

This was inspired by Katie’s breakfast the other day. She had served the berries at the bottom, and it reminded me of those yogurt cups with the hidden fruit. Plus, I loved how it just felt like something special to start off the day. If you can’t tell those aren’t berries at the bottom. I’ll tell you what’s at the bottom, but promise not to think I’m weird? Okay, you can think I’m weird, but not because of this. The bottom is leftover pulp from one of my dad’s juices that has ginger, kale, beets, and carrots. There’s also some papaya and 1/3 of a sliced banana. A third? Well, I’ve been reducing my banana consumption since it can be chilling to the liver. However, I’ve also read that because of their potassium content, they are beneficial. Through my research I’ve come across many contradictions. I have to ask myself what the sources are, and how does it actually affect me? Afterall, we are all individuals and our bodies may respond differently. I could happily live with monkeys because of my love for bananas. On second thought, the monkeys might not love me because that would mean less bananas for them! I don’t really want to have monkey poo flung at me. So yes, for right now I’m just reducing how many I eat, but not eliminating. Thank goodness this is only temporary.

Made some small changes in the kitchen eating area.

Who knew a new light, seat cushions, and new place mats could make such a big difference.

Ani Phyo's recipe for sesame snap cookies

Turned into ice kream sandwiches with Ani's coconut ice kream recipe.

Quick grab one before it's gone!

I have some leftover coconut ice kream, so I want to make her spiced blueberry cobbler recipe and top it with the ice kream. I love raw vegan desserts so much because they’re incredibly flavorful! If you have never tried one, I suggest you do. The recipes in “Ani’s Raw Food Desserts” are also easy to make. That’s actually part of the reason why she put this book together. Overtime Ani noticed that she had less and less time to make elaborate meals, so she started to come up with simple recipes that don’t require a lot of work. It’s also nice and encouraging to keep exploring these recipes after you make one and it’s a hit! That’s how I felt about baking bread. I started out simple, and then next thing you know I went from Irish soda bread to making Armenian tahini bread.

Very ripe plantains cooked with freshly ground cinnamon, yellow squash, onions, and mango chutney.

Then I proceeded to drizzle coconut oil and flax seed oil on everything. Did you know that the plantain seed expels disease and toxins from the body? It’s also good for respiratory problems because of it’s high mucilage content. And if your tummy isn’t feeling well, it can help because it has anti-inflammatory properties. Actually, some apply it directly to the skin on sores.

I'm loving it with coconut oil and ghee as well.

Rainbow Swiss chard

Pan-fried with onions, garlic, raisins, and balsamic vinegar for a little bit of time (3-5 minutes) on medium heat so the nutrients don’t get lost. Salt and pepper to taste, of course!

All in a day's work.

Do you all like the little random tidbits I’m including in my posts? Or is too much like an encyclopedia? To me it’s cool to learn all of these things, and that so much of the delicious food from nature I eat really has all of these wonderful benefits; not just for the liver! Of course, I always knew that, but not the specifics. I would also like to reiterate what I mentioned earlier in this post about how we can all differ from one another. I’m going to quote an excerpt from a book I’m currently reading: “Ayurveda is universal, it can be used by all peoples. Its principles do not change from culture to culture…(and yet) the foods and herbs used in an Ayurvedic program can vary from area to area, they need to that’s fine, healthy. Ayurveda is not limited to India and Indian foods. It is a universal medicine.” And that pretty much sums up how I feel about us as individuals. Of course, feel free to try the things I’ve been trying, but don’t just take my word for it. This is the beginning of my journey, and I’m learning things everyday.

p.s. I’m hoping to do a video post soon! So keep an eye out for it.

Within Yourself

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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!

Eating Under the Sun

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Many of you asked about my opinion on the chia seeds. I have no idea how much they normally cost, but my parents are fortunate to live close to a discount healthfood store. Actually, I just checked and you can order things online, check it out here: Tunie’s. As for taste? I’m not sure if they have a distinct flavor or not, but I do like the bit of crunch they offer. I like having different textures in my meals though. As for what their benefits are, I honestly didn’t know until I saw the package. Did you know that the Aztecs ate them for strength? They’re also an excellent source of omega fatty acids and dietary fiber.

Lots of hummus has been consumed--my parents had a couple tubs of Sabra in the fridge!

Hummus in sandwiches, hummus as a dip, hummus straight up! I love using sautéed veggies in sandwiches, but cool cucumbers and tomatoes are wonderfully refreshing as well. With a bit of freshly ground black peppercorns and I’m a happy camper.

So moist and scrumptious from the coconut milk.

I had bookmarked this Tropical Applesauce Muffin ages ago and I stumbled upon it again. However, I forgot that I left my muffin pan at my friend’s house so I just made them into squares. They sure don’t look like muffins but they definitely tasted great! I also recommend using brown sugar instead of regular–that’s just my personal taste.

Drinking out of silly straws is also my taste.

I’ve been having delicious smoothies practically everyday. What goes into the blender?

-3/4 cup almond milk (whatever milk you desire)

-1/2 frozen banana

-1/2 cup frozen blueberries (or frozen fruit of choice)

-2 spoonfuls of coconut milk (I suggest using the regular kind)

-protein powder or Greek yogurt

-lots of ice!

1. Mix it together and voila! I’m addicted! I’ve also tried it with just a 1/2 a cup of almond milk and it comes out more like a soft-serve. No complaints here!

Peach and banana variation with a lady finger to boot!

Or in smoothie form as well--whatever floats your boat that day.

What do these treasures from my parents' garden behold?

Vibrantly colored heirloom tomatoes!

Try these with fried capers, chopped basil, and toss it all in olive oil. Then season with sea salt and black pepper. So simple, refreshing, and delicious. I’m telling you that fried capers are delicious and have this wonderful saltiness.

Thai basil as well

I saw a helpless yucca root sitting on my parents counter.

I took matters into my own hands and made yucca fries! A warning though: boil these first because they can be poisonous if you don’t cook them properly beforehand. I tossed them in coconut oil, a citrus marinade, some sea salt, and the yucca fries were served!

Sorry if you don't like feet (I don't) and you just lost your appetite, but I got my first pedicure ever!

The nail salon had my favorite kind of crackers on hand so I took some extra home with me!

More tropical inspired food--plantains!

I’ve been sprinkling them with cinnamon and sea salt, frying them, and then tossing them in coconut oil.

I also took a trip down memory lane because I haven't had French lentils in ages.

Ever since my family has gotten into Indian food we’d been giving red lentils a lot of attention. So it’s been years and I think it was nice to have some other lentils for a change.

My mom suggested we cook butter beans.

So I caramelized some onions and cooked them with dried thyme, shredded mango chutney, butter beans, and sweet potato. I added coconut oil afterwards and let’s just say that ever since my mom fried tofu with shredded mango chutney and thyme, she’s had me hooked! I asked her how she came up with the combination and she simply said, “I don’t know.” That’s good enough for me because sometimes the best things don’t have a reason. They just sort of… happen!

What are some your rhymes with no reason?

I also tried the shredded mango chutney with dried thyme combo with chickpeas!

Still amazing! And you know what else are amazing? Baked sweet potatoes! Especially with coconut oil, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Even better? Add some goat cheese and you’re in for a treat.

A treat even a vampire would enjoy!

Ve vant to suck your blood... er I mean ve vant to eat your sweet potatoes!

We threw a surprise birthday party for a friend of ours--complete with grilling!

Make a wish!

Beautiful birthday cake? Check!

I just realized that I didn’t get a birthday cake for my past birthday. Maybe I should get on that. Better late than never, right?

Look what this vampire found!

The other day I went to the local Italian market and you know I checked the chocolate aisle! I spotted this incredible bar and you know what’s funny? I actually stumbled upon a review of this bar earlier that day! I think everyone around me could tell how excited I was about this because everyone was smiling along with me. Dark chocolate with banana? Yes, please.

Made with actual banana pulp!

Consensus? Excuse me while I break off another piece to refresh my memory… okay back! Ah yes, I’m actually going to write a live review! Well the taste is fabulous no doubt about that. The level is sweetness is right on point and the banana is not overwhelming. My only wish is that it would melt a little more smoothly in my mouth, but I can deal!

What do you think?

My bad! I forgot that puppies can't have chocolate.

I didn't mean to rub it in your face, Matilda.

Speaking of faces, my mom and I did some at-home spa treatment complete with monster masks and gooey hair!

Kind of resembles the cilantro dressing I made the other day, don't you think?

This dressing is deliciously refreshing, tangy, and goes well with goat cheese! I vaguely followed a recipe in my tapas cookbook, so I’ll share with you what I remember since I basically just eyeballed everything.

Cilantro Dressing

-2 garlic cloves

-ground cumin, not too much!

-a lot of chopped cilantro leaves

-a bit less than 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

-2 tbl apple cider vinegar

-salt and pepper

1. Put the garlic, cumin, and cilantro in a food processor, and pulse until well mixed.

2. Add 1 tbl at a time of the extra virgin olive oil. Throughout this process, using a spatula, scrape down the side of the bowl. Keep adding the oil until it has all been incorporated and the dressing has slightly thickened.

3. Add the vinegar to the dressing and process for a minute, or until blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Oh my goodness what a mouthful of a post! I still have more things to share with you all. But until then have a fabulous Wednesday, and treat yourself to something that may have inspired you today.

Still Soaking Up the Sun, Con’t.

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I just realized that I forgot to reveal the truth! Drum roll please! Okay… so the truth is that I made out with one of the guys from my favorite band. Oh man, that is a long story to tell and I smile whenever I think about it. I definitely thought I was all that and a bag of potato chips after that hehe.

So back to the recap. The next day was cloudy and rainy so I decided to take Kelley to some specialty stores. But before that I whipped myself up a quick lunch.

Veggies, avocado, and a filled tortilla.

My parents had the sprouted tortillas which I’ve never tried before. I was surprisingly satisfied with these. Sometimes those kinds of tortillas taste too “brown” for me, you know what I mean?

Filled with the leftover curried fava beans my mom made, veggies, and Wisconsin cheddar

Then we hit the markets.

First we stopped at the Italian market. Look at all that pasta!
We also stopped by the Latin food store and I got some things for her to try: oatmeal milk and a sweet treat (cream with guava)

She really liked both of them! These are old favorites for me. Before my mom came home from work I decided to take Kelley to a secret location that a lot of locals don’t know about. I discovered the little spot back when I was learning how to drive and I was just curious to where this seemingly endless road would take me.

Who knew the everglades were so close to me!
Sunsets are beautiful here.
And watch out, you may bump into a alligator too.

Then we headed home for dinner.

Part of our dinner that night were some fried sweet plantains that we find at one of the markets.

And I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but avocados are a staple at my family’s table! The next day my mom took off work and she wanted to make something special for us! She went through practically all of our cookbooks the night before to find some recipes to make.

She prepared an Indian feast for us, not leaving out the mango lassi of course!
Get in my belly!
We went to a museum to see our friends perform.
Two lovely ladies!
Goofy!!
We were happy that we got to wear our long dresses!
Dance!
They’re from Brazil and you can tell that they’ve got the rhythm and beats in their blood.
Samba! It’s actually one of my favorite dances.
They are such great performers.

I use to take dance lessons with the man in the picture. He’s so incredible and even knows how to belly dance! He knows how to shake his hips better than any one I know. But aside from that, this couple has so much love inside of them and it just radiates through their smiles.

Group shot!
Later that night we headed out with some more friends!
I was so happy to be with my two best friends–in the same place!!!
She came out to party with us even though she had work in the morning! She’s a trooper.
All of us, but my mom got cut out!
There she is!

Pilar ordered the Vesuvius Cake: Brownie Crust, New York Style Cheesecake, Chocolate Ganache, Chocolate Truffle,and Chocolate Mousse Topped with Chopped Walnuts and White Chocolate Chips

You know I helped my homegirl out! The music was good and you know what means. It was time to dance. There was no one out on the dance floor, but who cares. As soon as we started shakin’ what our mama’s gave us, a crowd of people came and joined in on the fun. Seriously, how can someone just sit there when there’s music to be danced to and a dance floor? But at least it doesn’t take much to wake some people up!

My next post will be the final recap of my break in Florida. I miss it already! I’ve been calling my mom every night… actually that’s something I did anyway hehe. I hope everyone is enjoying spring so far!!! Don’t you just love seeing everything come to life?

Warmer Days

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Greetings earthlings!

Thank you Erin for passing this award on to me awhile ago. It’s about time I get around to passing it on to a few other creative writers, wouldn’t you say?

Here are the rules:
1. Thank the person who gave this to you.
2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3. Link to the person who nominated you.
4. Tell up to six outrageous lies about yourself, and at least one outrageous truth.
5. Nominate seven “Creative Writers” who might have fun coming up with outrageous lies.
6. Post links to the seven blogs you nominate.

1. One time I started a fight in the girl’s bathroom in high school.
2. I have never worn green socks.
3. I always drool uncontrollably at the sight of a handsome guy.
4. I made out with one of the band members of my favorite bands.
5. I use to be a big “witch”.
6. I’ve eaten cow intestines.
7. I hate avocados.

Which one’s the truth?
I’m passing this on to these ladies:
Karina

Jess

another awesome Jessica

Lauren

Jenny

Katie

and last but in no way least, Holly

I asked my friend, Kelley, if she wanted me to make her oats in the morning.

I cooked her oats in almond milk and cinnamon. Then I swirled in some coconut oil and topped it off with banana slices and mango. I also spooned on a bit of Naturally More peanut butter. I’ve never tried this kind and it was very yummy! It wasn’t completely creamy and not super crunchy either.

I opted for something more refreshing.

I opted for granola, Greek yogurt, and Ezekiel toast. My parents didn’t have butter in the house (what?!) except for ghee aka clarified butter. It has a different taste than butter, but I liked it!

Ghee is considered sacred in India.
Mom made lunch again!

She wanted to try a new grain she bought at the store–amaranth. She made curry chicken for everyone and a tofu version for me. The amaranth itself was plain, but mixed with the tofu curry was much better and gave an interesting texture.

In Florida, avocado is a must with every meal.

Then we got ready to go out!

I think Matilda felt left out.
We went out to go dancing.

There was an artist painting a large mural that night in one of the dance rooms. They also had dancers that were painted from head-to-toe, a drag queen performance, people dressed up as squires, and many more theatrics. It was so much fun. We ended up meeting the artist’s agent and the club owner, then danced around in VIP till we decided to head home–daylight savings time hit us!

They took a couple pictures of us.

Lunch was a team effort.

I stir-fried some kale, mushrooms, and zucchini in a garlic & ginger paste + Soyvay sauce. My mom made her specialty curried fava beans in coconut milk. I also had some toast with peanut butter and a slice of Cabot’s cheddar.

Then we headed to Calle Ocho

Calle Ocho is basically a huge annual block party in the middle of Little Havana down in Miami. There’s lots of music, dancing, food, and people!

The crowd
Getting one of my favorite things–arepas de choclo (sweet corn cakes filled with mozzarella)
Gettin’ down
We also got sweet plantains.
My mom found some $$ on the ground–finders, keepers!
Then we were headed to south beach.
Driving down Ocean Dr. on a Sunday night.
24-Hour Diner
With a HUGE menu…
And a little market inside as well.
My adorable soul sista!

We ended up leaving because it was getting late and my mom was getting super antsy. Oi! But it was a nice little discovery, and I’m hoping to go back there one day. I hope all of you are having a wonderful week. Guess what? Tomorrow is Friday! Woo hoo!