A new season is upon us and with it comes opportunities for changes and new beginnings. The summer got a little crazy and I was side tracked and blocked for awhile, but focus is returning!
Last year, after Halloween, I tossed a little pumpkin into my side garden. I was surprised and pleased to see a plant grow and blossoms appear. I am hoping for at least one good pumpkin off that vine for us to use this year. I didn't plan for the pumpkin to grow, and am not even sure what I will get from the vine, but it is a nice illustration of how we don't always know what seeds we are planting and what they may bring forth in the future.
I am still working on starting the business. I don't think the cafe' is going to work out, but I have continued to research products for the store. I went to a Green Fest in Ferndale and discovered some great local providers of green products as well. Appparently there are several of these Green Fests' in southern lower MI, just not up in this area, so another of my goals, now is to bring a Fest of this type here. I am hoping to work with either the Farmer's Market, or some local craft shows to maybe create a "green corner" to showcase some products and then generate interest in the store. Sometimes baby steps are the way to reach the summit!
As to recipes, I have been able to use eggplant a lot this summer. Due to the odd weather, summer squash never became plentiful or inexpensive, so eggplant became my main ingredient of choice. I found a great way to make eggplant parmegiana without using egg or bread -
I drizzled olive oil on the eggplant and then sprinkled cheese on top - you could use soy cheese if desired. Then I baked it for about 15 minutes. This gave the same texture as the traditional dish. I served it with whole wheat penne tossed with a light sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and oregano.
Jared is beginning 8th grade and football practice has begun as well. He is enjoying that and since I have a new job, I am home much more. I am looking forward to changing colors, cooler air, football, and fall squash!
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Thursday, May 26, 2011
House Party Party Christine's Discover You Can House Party™
House Party Party Christine's Discover You Can House Party™
We are going to learn how to can the easy way! Join in the fun!
We are going to learn how to can the easy way! Join in the fun!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Healthy eating on the road - a success
Well, blogger decided to crash last week, so it has been a while since my last post. I wanted to let you know that my 8 day trip resulted in a successful journal of healthy eating. It might not have been exciting meals, but I certainly felt great and un-bloated after this trip - which is not always the case. Luckily for me, there were a couple of Whole foods stores and several Panera Breads in the area. They are called The St. Louis Bread Company in that area, which I found interesting. Both of these locales were prime sources for fresh salads, and I did splurge on the tomatoe/mozzarella panini to which I asked for the artichoke spread to be added. This is about 750 calories for a whole sandwich, but after a long day, it was heavenly to eat. Since I only had a couple of handful of nuts, along with some Better Oats oatmeal that day, I think I was good :). I am happy to report I did not have pizza even once, and I also did not have my other indulgence - Chinese food, which, even though I get vegetarian dishes is often heavy due to noodles or sauces. Nor did I succomb to chips - a true weakness of mine, and it would've been so easy to pick up a couple of bags at Whole Foods since there is a huge snack aisle.
As I said in the previous post, staying in a hotel with a fridge is extremely helpful to maintain healthy eating habits, and to have plenty of cold tea and Sobe water!
The point is that when traveling, especially alone, for work, for an extended period of time, it is so easy to "treat" ourselves to food that is not in keeping with our healthy eating goals. Each day that I chose a healthy salad, or snacked on nuts, or ate my apple, I felt better and stronger, and more able to carry out my work goals. The next big experiment will be a road trip with the kids - avoiding fast food can certainly be a challenge there, but by planning ahead, I think we can do it!
As I said in the previous post, staying in a hotel with a fridge is extremely helpful to maintain healthy eating habits, and to have plenty of cold tea and Sobe water!
The point is that when traveling, especially alone, for work, for an extended period of time, it is so easy to "treat" ourselves to food that is not in keeping with our healthy eating goals. Each day that I chose a healthy salad, or snacked on nuts, or ate my apple, I felt better and stronger, and more able to carry out my work goals. The next big experiment will be a road trip with the kids - avoiding fast food can certainly be a challenge there, but by planning ahead, I think we can do it!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Healthy eating on the road
Does that title seem like a misnomer? I travel a lot for my current job and spent many years believing that I could not, in fact, eat healthily on the road. Hours are long, windshield time is sometimes seemingly unending, and if the trip is a conference, tempting foods abound. Since becoming a vegetarian, it has been easier to be more conscious of what I was eating, but there are still times when cheese pizza calls my name several days during the trip. One of the ways I have avoided this is to carry healthy snacks with me. I purchase snacks at the gas station when I fill up if I run out, or stop at a grocery store. With the prevalence of Wal Marts, it ususally isn't too far to go to get some fresh produce or nuts. Look for un salted, no candy added (you might be surprised) trail mixes. Check the sugar content and all ingredients. I like Planters all natural. You can typically get small packages of nuts for .99 at the gas station. I am also a fan of Sobe water! Sobe 0 has zero calories, all natural ingredients, and added vitamins and minerals, which I swear helps me get through the day.
I have had a lot of success staying in hotels which offer at least a fridge and microwave. I discovered a nice group called Candlewood Suites, which offer a mini apartment and with my AAA discount is as low as $69.99 a night - bonus is a gym, honor system snack shop, and free, yes FREE laundry (bring your own detergent, or pay for it there - use Purex all in one!)
Having a mini kitchen, microwave, full fridge and freezer, and two burner stove, outfitted with dishes etc, makes it easy to stop at the store and pick up healthy fixins for breakfast and dinner.
If I have to eat out, I certainly go for the vegetarian based dishes. Stay away from cream sauces, and ask for veggies to be steamed with no salt or butter added. Pizza is ok if it is personal sized, thin crust, and light on cheese. I like to get veggies such as spinach or artichoke. So far, this trip, I have been successful in staying on the healthy path. More updates to come!
I have had a lot of success staying in hotels which offer at least a fridge and microwave. I discovered a nice group called Candlewood Suites, which offer a mini apartment and with my AAA discount is as low as $69.99 a night - bonus is a gym, honor system snack shop, and free, yes FREE laundry (bring your own detergent, or pay for it there - use Purex all in one!)
Having a mini kitchen, microwave, full fridge and freezer, and two burner stove, outfitted with dishes etc, makes it easy to stop at the store and pick up healthy fixins for breakfast and dinner.
If I have to eat out, I certainly go for the vegetarian based dishes. Stay away from cream sauces, and ask for veggies to be steamed with no salt or butter added. Pizza is ok if it is personal sized, thin crust, and light on cheese. I like to get veggies such as spinach or artichoke. So far, this trip, I have been successful in staying on the healthy path. More updates to come!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Still Location
Well, I found out yesterday that the building on which I had set my sights, the one that got me in gear to pursue this whole thing has been leased to another. I have mixed feelings about this. I could not have leased it any sooner, so it's not like I just held out and didn't make a decision. The person who owns the building assured me he would let me know if any one else had a serious interest before he moved forward with them, and he did not; he also did not follow up on the two emails and voice mails I left for him. This leads me to seriously doubt the integrity of that person, so I think it may be a good thing I won't be working with him.
The real challenge here is that I can't seem to find another space that has a kitchen, or one in which the owners are interested in putting in a kitchen. Does this mean I abandon the cafe idea? I so love the notion of being able to serve good tasting, non threatening vegetarian food and vegan baked goods, but maybe it just isn't going to work. I am starting to think I need to move forward with just the products and add the food later. I could always still do packaged snacks and drinks, and that would allow the gas station to still work, plus there is another couple of spaces downtown - one is really small, but might work. I could still do classes and then just work up to the cafe. It is disheartening and I felt a little sad yesterday, but today is a new day and I am moving forward. I still need a good chunk of change to get this going, so keep pressing www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly forward!
Thanks!
The real challenge here is that I can't seem to find another space that has a kitchen, or one in which the owners are interested in putting in a kitchen. Does this mean I abandon the cafe idea? I so love the notion of being able to serve good tasting, non threatening vegetarian food and vegan baked goods, but maybe it just isn't going to work. I am starting to think I need to move forward with just the products and add the food later. I could always still do packaged snacks and drinks, and that would allow the gas station to still work, plus there is another couple of spaces downtown - one is really small, but might work. I could still do classes and then just work up to the cafe. It is disheartening and I felt a little sad yesterday, but today is a new day and I am moving forward. I still need a good chunk of change to get this going, so keep pressing www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly forward!
Thanks!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Cauliflower Soup
What's for linner? (That would be lunch and dinner) This has been a busy day and I suddenly realized that it was 1:30 and I hadn't eaten all day - well had lots of coffe and some of my favorite dried mango from Peeled Snacks but not a meal. It has been an off and on day for weather, rain this morning, then some lovely sunshine and at the moment it is cloudy and rather breezy and cool so I decided to make some soup. I had some cauliflower in the fridge which I had not gotten around to using so in a very short time I had a lovely soup simmering on the stove.
Here is what I used -
1 small head of cauliflower de-leafed and cut into small pieces
1 small onion chopped - I used a vidalia as they just came out and I love them!
about 1 1/2 cups of veggie broth - you can used canned, but please make sure it is low sodium
about 1 - 1 1/2 c of organic, unsweetened apple juice
these should all be added to the pot and allowed to come to a boil, then cover and simmer until the cauliflower is tender.
You can add spices as you wish, and these can change the flavor. Some examples are, coriander, tarragon, thyme, rosemary, or as in this case, lemongrass. I also added a little paprika.
Once the cauliflower is tender, you will need to put the soup in a blender to smooth, or use one of those super handy hand-held blender wands. I just got one and it is really fun, plus there is a lot less clean-up!
You can also add pepper to taste - I prefer to use freshly ground as it is so much more flavorful.
Updates to the store opening progress - I attended another pitch meeting last night and it went very well. I am now working with Lisa at the SBTDC and she has all ready been super helpful. PLEASE visit the crowdfunding site - scroll all the way down for the link or click www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly - and donate! I am asking you to donate $10 and then send the information to all your friends and as them to donate $10 and then send on to their friends. We can get this business open $10 at a time AND all donations of $10 received a coupon for a free food items, so just think of it as pre-paying for lunch! My goal is still to use the building on Main in Flushing, but I need this funding to do it. Time is running out as the campaign ends the last day of May and we really do need to open in June to get the full effect of the summer traffic and start off on a positive note. So Please help all you can!
Happy cooking and recycling!
Here is what I used -
1 small head of cauliflower de-leafed and cut into small pieces
1 small onion chopped - I used a vidalia as they just came out and I love them!
about 1 1/2 cups of veggie broth - you can used canned, but please make sure it is low sodium
about 1 - 1 1/2 c of organic, unsweetened apple juice
these should all be added to the pot and allowed to come to a boil, then cover and simmer until the cauliflower is tender.
You can add spices as you wish, and these can change the flavor. Some examples are, coriander, tarragon, thyme, rosemary, or as in this case, lemongrass. I also added a little paprika.
Once the cauliflower is tender, you will need to put the soup in a blender to smooth, or use one of those super handy hand-held blender wands. I just got one and it is really fun, plus there is a lot less clean-up!
You can also add pepper to taste - I prefer to use freshly ground as it is so much more flavorful.
Updates to the store opening progress - I attended another pitch meeting last night and it went very well. I am now working with Lisa at the SBTDC and she has all ready been super helpful. PLEASE visit the crowdfunding site - scroll all the way down for the link or click www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly - and donate! I am asking you to donate $10 and then send the information to all your friends and as them to donate $10 and then send on to their friends. We can get this business open $10 at a time AND all donations of $10 received a coupon for a free food items, so just think of it as pre-paying for lunch! My goal is still to use the building on Main in Flushing, but I need this funding to do it. Time is running out as the campaign ends the last day of May and we really do need to open in June to get the full effect of the summer traffic and start off on a positive note. So Please help all you can!
Happy cooking and recycling!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Pops Peterson: Impressions of a Life Well Spent | Our State Magazine
Pops Peterson: Impressions of a Life Well Spent Our State Magazine
This article is about my paternal grandfather, whom I have never met, or at least not at an age which I can remember. It brings to mind some interesting thoughts about family.
I am related by blood to lots of people, but I am only close to two - my own children. Mostly it's due to actual distance. I haven't lived near any of my blood relatives for decades. I also did not grow up with my brothers or my parents after the age of 10 (I was raised by my maternal grandparents). I often wonder how that has influenced the person that I am. I think I am still trying to figure out what makes a lasting relationship between people. I know it isn't simply relation. It requires concentrated effort, engagement, and genuine interest in others. It is tough to do from a distance, and I think that's why long-distance relationships of any kind are super-tough to maintain. Out of sight, out of mind, seems pretty true in my experience.
I hope that there are people in your life that are close to you in all ways and whom you love whether blood related or not. Ultimately, the relationships we forge and foster are all we have to sustain us through life.
This article is about my paternal grandfather, whom I have never met, or at least not at an age which I can remember. It brings to mind some interesting thoughts about family.
I am related by blood to lots of people, but I am only close to two - my own children. Mostly it's due to actual distance. I haven't lived near any of my blood relatives for decades. I also did not grow up with my brothers or my parents after the age of 10 (I was raised by my maternal grandparents). I often wonder how that has influenced the person that I am. I think I am still trying to figure out what makes a lasting relationship between people. I know it isn't simply relation. It requires concentrated effort, engagement, and genuine interest in others. It is tough to do from a distance, and I think that's why long-distance relationships of any kind are super-tough to maintain. Out of sight, out of mind, seems pretty true in my experience.
I hope that there are people in your life that are close to you in all ways and whom you love whether blood related or not. Ultimately, the relationships we forge and foster are all we have to sustain us through life.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Pasta - big bowls and sauce overload
Pasta is favorite in our house. We have pasta based dishes at least twice a week. Now that whole wheat pastas are readily available at a very affordable price, it is both economical and healthy. The problem with pasta is that it's easy to eat too much of it. A serving is much smaller than most people realize and when we see it on the plate, it is easy to believe that tiny portion would never be enough! We have a tendency to cook a big pot, pour it into a huge bowl, and sop up the excess sauce with lots of bread.
Since pasta is so family friendly, as well as vegetarian (and vegan if dried) friendly it is worth noting some easy ways to serve and make sure we aren't on carb or sauce overload.
If you are simply serving pasta and sauce, measure out the portion of sauce first and then add and toss the pasta a little at a time to coat. You will find you are only using the amount of pasta necessary to compliment the sauce.
If you are doing a vegetable and pasta mix, add the pasta to the vegetables and mix. Your vegetables should be at least 2 to 1 in regard to pasta. If there will be a sauce in addition to the vegetables, either cook the veggies in the sauce or add the sauce after the pasta and veggies are mixed.
The best vegetables to add to a tomato sauce are ones that are hearty and hold their shape, like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.
My favorites to add to pesto are spinach, artichoke, watercress, and asparagus.
Spinach is a great veggie for any kind of sauce.
Here are several easy, healthy sauce basics for pasta -
veggie broth and lemon juice - great for vegetable and pasta dishes - you can cook the veggies in this broth and then add a little more of the liquids when adding the pasta to coat, season with a little grated parmesan or romano, black ground pepper, or lemon pepper - easy and light!
pesto - basically all you need are some basil leaves, olive oil and garlic. I also like to add a little lemon juice and zest. whip this up in your food processor, no cooking needed! (you can saute the garlic first if you like)
tomato - everyone has their favorite tomato sauce recipe - keep a light hand when adding sugar and salt. Look for other ways to sweeten, such as cinnamon, or spice it up a little with red pepper flakes so you need less sugar for flavor. The heavier handed you are with the garlic and onion, the less sweetener you will need as well.
Use pasta the same way you do bread for a sandwich - as the conduit for the other ingredients rather than the main feature, and you will find your family healthier and satisfied at dinner time!
Since pasta is so family friendly, as well as vegetarian (and vegan if dried) friendly it is worth noting some easy ways to serve and make sure we aren't on carb or sauce overload.
If you are simply serving pasta and sauce, measure out the portion of sauce first and then add and toss the pasta a little at a time to coat. You will find you are only using the amount of pasta necessary to compliment the sauce.
If you are doing a vegetable and pasta mix, add the pasta to the vegetables and mix. Your vegetables should be at least 2 to 1 in regard to pasta. If there will be a sauce in addition to the vegetables, either cook the veggies in the sauce or add the sauce after the pasta and veggies are mixed.
The best vegetables to add to a tomato sauce are ones that are hearty and hold their shape, like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.
My favorites to add to pesto are spinach, artichoke, watercress, and asparagus.
Spinach is a great veggie for any kind of sauce.
Here are several easy, healthy sauce basics for pasta -
veggie broth and lemon juice - great for vegetable and pasta dishes - you can cook the veggies in this broth and then add a little more of the liquids when adding the pasta to coat, season with a little grated parmesan or romano, black ground pepper, or lemon pepper - easy and light!
pesto - basically all you need are some basil leaves, olive oil and garlic. I also like to add a little lemon juice and zest. whip this up in your food processor, no cooking needed! (you can saute the garlic first if you like)
tomato - everyone has their favorite tomato sauce recipe - keep a light hand when adding sugar and salt. Look for other ways to sweeten, such as cinnamon, or spice it up a little with red pepper flakes so you need less sugar for flavor. The heavier handed you are with the garlic and onion, the less sweetener you will need as well.
Use pasta the same way you do bread for a sandwich - as the conduit for the other ingredients rather than the main feature, and you will find your family healthier and satisfied at dinner time!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Happy Day
As I am watching the two of them now, so handsome, so admired, so close to one another, I truly believe Diana is watching over them still and terribly pleased and proud of the men they have become. I believe they both feel her presence and I truly wish Kate and William all the happiness.
Now on to my observations as the wedding progresses:
I was not expecting to see William in Red - Harry might be even more splendid in his dress blues.
Catherine has arrived and looks stunningly, traditionally beautiful. The congregation is singing and they just showed Elton John! The dress is not what I had expected, much simpler and more traditional perhaps, but it does have a full train and beautiful lace.
It is totally quiet as Catherine walks the aisle; as she gets to William, he says "you look beautiful". The congregation singing is pretty funny, really. At several points during the ceremony, you can hear the crowd cheering. It makes William and Catherine smile!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Green Butterfly Vegan cookie
Baking vegan simply means no eggs, milk, or animal product butter. What you have to watch out for when baking vegan is texture and consistency in order to have a dough/batter that you can work with and sets up correctly.
These cookies are not only vegan, but also wheat and gluten free!
Here is the recipe I used for this batch -
2 cups vegan, wheat free, gluten free flour - I used an all purpose one from red mill
1 c sugar - I used an organic sugar
1 c vegan butter - I used earth balance
2 ts extract - I used almond - again organic -
a pinch of salt
2 TB water
cream sugar and butter then add flour, extract, salt and water
thoroughly mix the dough - you may need to add a little more water, or flour to get a good mixture
This dough needs to chill completely - put it in the fridge until firm - it is best to wrap it in parchment or wax paper, and shape it into a log.
When you are ready to work with the dough, you have a couple of options - the easiest is to create balls, roll in organic sugar (white or brown) indent wth your thumb and fill with an all natural, sugar free preserve.
If you wish to make shapes as I did hear, you will need to thoroughly flour the surface and roll out, flatten the dough - this is a fairly delicate dough, so I found that keeping the dough about a 1/4" thick worked the best, as well as using a larger cookie cutter.
Bake at 350 degrees until golden on the bottom. I also baked these on parchment paper.
While the cookies are baking, make the vegan frosting
it will depend on how much you need, but I used
1 c powdered sugar - organic
1/4 c vegan butter - earth balance
and to flavor - lime juice, zest, and a little fresh mint
You can flavor with extract, other fruit juice or just mix the sugar and butter.
The butter needs to be soft in order to mix it well - keep in mind you will not have the consistency of store bought, canned frosting, but the flavor will be awesome!
Refrigerate the frosting until you are ready to use - the cookies need to be completely cooled before frosting -
This is a basic recipe that can be adapted. You can play around with flavors until you find the ones you and your family like best. The Good news is, you have a yummy cookie you can feel good about serving your family! Even my son, the non-sweet eater (pretty much) says they are good!
Happy Baking!!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Green Butterfly Pitch Day
I am getting ready to make a batch of vegan green butterfly cookies with a vegan lime zest frosting - I will post pics and a recipe once they're done. I plan to take them to the pitch meeting tonight!
I have experienced a flood of new connections in the last few days and am feeling so empowered to get my business open. I am more confident than ever that it will flourish.
While conducting some research for the pitch meeting tonight I found some interesting statistics regarding consumer purchases of green products. Acccording to the latest study I could find, 84% of consumers say they would purchase. even at a premium price, products and services which were certified green. Only 43% of businesses produce or trade ANY type of green product (which could be as simple as a travel mug or reusable tote) and of those companies, 74% don't have a green policy or guideline or fail to communicate the policy to the consumer.
Bottom line - The Green Butterfly will serve this touch point in a big way, not only by providing certified green products and services, but by helping consumers to understand the issues and eliminate confusion. (such as how and why a green product works and how and why it is just as good or better than a 'regular' product)
Join us by: subscribing to the blog, making a donation at www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly, and/or passing that link along, visiting us when we open!
I have experienced a flood of new connections in the last few days and am feeling so empowered to get my business open. I am more confident than ever that it will flourish.
While conducting some research for the pitch meeting tonight I found some interesting statistics regarding consumer purchases of green products. Acccording to the latest study I could find, 84% of consumers say they would purchase. even at a premium price, products and services which were certified green. Only 43% of businesses produce or trade ANY type of green product (which could be as simple as a travel mug or reusable tote) and of those companies, 74% don't have a green policy or guideline or fail to communicate the policy to the consumer.
Bottom line - The Green Butterfly will serve this touch point in a big way, not only by providing certified green products and services, but by helping consumers to understand the issues and eliminate confusion. (such as how and why a green product works and how and why it is just as good or better than a 'regular' product)
Join us by: subscribing to the blog, making a donation at www.indiegogo.com/the-green-butterfly, and/or passing that link along, visiting us when we open!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Weight Loss Tips for Healthy Eaters
Weight Loss Tips for Healthy Eaters Page 2 Active.com
This is an excellent article which highlights some of the pitfalls many health eaters encounter as well as some solutions - I saw a similar article from Marie Claire which had several nutritionists write down what they ate for a day and it was shocking to see how many calories those healthy plates piled on! Portion control and calories are important no matter what you are consuming. Since many fruits and vegetables are high in sugar (even if its natural sugars) you have to be careful about consumption.
I have to admit this is something I struggle with at times. I sometimes think that because it is vegetables or fruit, I can have as much as I want. There have been days I have eaten two or three bananas at one sitting ( well usually standing in the kitchen).
We owe it to ourselves to be conscious not only of the foods we are eating, but how much of it we are consuming!
This is an excellent article which highlights some of the pitfalls many health eaters encounter as well as some solutions - I saw a similar article from Marie Claire which had several nutritionists write down what they ate for a day and it was shocking to see how many calories those healthy plates piled on! Portion control and calories are important no matter what you are consuming. Since many fruits and vegetables are high in sugar (even if its natural sugars) you have to be careful about consumption.
I have to admit this is something I struggle with at times. I sometimes think that because it is vegetables or fruit, I can have as much as I want. There have been days I have eaten two or three bananas at one sitting ( well usually standing in the kitchen).
We owe it to ourselves to be conscious not only of the foods we are eating, but how much of it we are consuming!
Aparagus and other gifts of the season
It has been an amazing few days -
The spot on Good Morning American ended up airing on Easter Sunday morning - I missed the actual airing as I didn't know it was going to be on that day - however, several friends let me know they saw it. I was able to download the link and view the spot, which was pretty neat.
Jared and I went to dinner at his Aunt Grace's. They had ham and turkey, as might be expected, but also some yummy cheesy potatoes, great biscuits, and delicious fresh veggie platter. Grace also made an amazing chocolate cake with a dark chocolate frosting - I can honestly say I have never had better chocolate cake - I will be getting the recipe from her and making any moderations needed to make it a healthier version and post it here as long as I can get it to come out the same way.
When I returned home from dinner, there were three facebook messages for me from our local ABC affiliate - WJRT - they had seen the piece on GMA and wanted to interview me! So, around 3:30 or so the reporter and camera man were in my driveway talking with me about the GMA piece and what I thought about high gas prices. I was able to give the reporter, the super nice, lovely, Rebecca Trylch my business card as well and told her to feel free to call on me with any green or eco-aware pieces they might be doing. She in turn said that they would definitely send someone out when I get ready to open to cover the store!
It is going to be a busy week - Wednesday night I have the pitch meeting with the BWA group in Freeland, Thursday I am checking out the building downtown and trying to make a decision on that, also on Thursday is the business to business expo at Perani arena, and Friday I am looking at another space in downtown Flushing. Today I applied for a 20K business grant from American Express. I am still trying to find out about the grant program from Ascension Health.
The asparagus salad was wonderful, and we had more asparagus and fresh corn on the cob for dinner tonight. It was so nice to have corn on the cob again! I just steamed them both lightly and then grated fresh pepper over top - absolutely delicious!
Oh, and more good news - I just heard from I'm Organic - a great company which I have all ready contacted about products for the store - I won a recent blog comments entry contest they had and am receiving a tote and wonderful eco-friendly cleaning products! This is super important to me as I am looking for cleaning products both to use in the cafe/store and to sell and this line sounds wonderful - I will let you know how they perform when they arrive. Thanks, I'm Organic!!
The spot on Good Morning American ended up airing on Easter Sunday morning - I missed the actual airing as I didn't know it was going to be on that day - however, several friends let me know they saw it. I was able to download the link and view the spot, which was pretty neat.
Jared and I went to dinner at his Aunt Grace's. They had ham and turkey, as might be expected, but also some yummy cheesy potatoes, great biscuits, and delicious fresh veggie platter. Grace also made an amazing chocolate cake with a dark chocolate frosting - I can honestly say I have never had better chocolate cake - I will be getting the recipe from her and making any moderations needed to make it a healthier version and post it here as long as I can get it to come out the same way.
When I returned home from dinner, there were three facebook messages for me from our local ABC affiliate - WJRT - they had seen the piece on GMA and wanted to interview me! So, around 3:30 or so the reporter and camera man were in my driveway talking with me about the GMA piece and what I thought about high gas prices. I was able to give the reporter, the super nice, lovely, Rebecca Trylch my business card as well and told her to feel free to call on me with any green or eco-aware pieces they might be doing. She in turn said that they would definitely send someone out when I get ready to open to cover the store!
It is going to be a busy week - Wednesday night I have the pitch meeting with the BWA group in Freeland, Thursday I am checking out the building downtown and trying to make a decision on that, also on Thursday is the business to business expo at Perani arena, and Friday I am looking at another space in downtown Flushing. Today I applied for a 20K business grant from American Express. I am still trying to find out about the grant program from Ascension Health.
The asparagus salad was wonderful, and we had more asparagus and fresh corn on the cob for dinner tonight. It was so nice to have corn on the cob again! I just steamed them both lightly and then grated fresh pepper over top - absolutely delicious!
Oh, and more good news - I just heard from I'm Organic - a great company which I have all ready contacted about products for the store - I won a recent blog comments entry contest they had and am receiving a tote and wonderful eco-friendly cleaning products! This is super important to me as I am looking for cleaning products both to use in the cafe/store and to sell and this line sounds wonderful - I will let you know how they perform when they arrive. Thanks, I'm Organic!!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Gas Prices and Green Salad
If you saw it, let me know -
I am also going to be checking to see if it shows up online and will add the link if it does -
At any rate, today is Easter and Jared and I are going to his Aunt Grace's house for Easter dinner.
I am taking an easy asparagus salad.
I am using about 2 lbs of asparagus - shave it like you would carrots in long strips
Mix - in a small bowl or even a glass - lemon juice (from fresh lemons); lemon zest (from the same lemons, about a ts of olive oil, pepper (fresh ground if you can) and freshly shaved Parmesan cheese. Stir together well and toss with asparagus
serve immediately!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Twitter Magic!
Why does it "pay" to twitter? Well first you can connect with people in a way that is different than any other, it's a great marketing tool, and sometimes it leads to really interesting opportunities. Case in point, you just may see me on Good Morning American on Saturday, April 23! That's right! They posted a question on twitter, I responded, and they contacted me to be on the show! I had to put together a short video clip and send in some photos, which sent me into a bit of a tizzy, but a couple of hours later, it was all done and sent with the help of my adorable son and two willing puppies! I really don't know how or when it might be used tomorrow. but just talking to a producer and putting that package together was thrilling!!
I love social media, especially since I am attempting to live as Green as possible, and am trying to get a new business off the ground - it is so awesome that we can email, facebook, blog, flicker, and twitter for immediate contacts and results. All of the responses to my crowdfunding page are from people in other states. When all they have to do is click a link and fill out some information and hit send its easy to get people involved. So, use whats out there, you are saving paper and might get a great, fun opportunity from it! -
Please continue to support The Green Butterfly - we have less than 40 days!!
I love social media, especially since I am attempting to live as Green as possible, and am trying to get a new business off the ground - it is so awesome that we can email, facebook, blog, flicker, and twitter for immediate contacts and results. All of the responses to my crowdfunding page are from people in other states. When all they have to do is click a link and fill out some information and hit send its easy to get people involved. So, use whats out there, you are saving paper and might get a great, fun opportunity from it! -
Please continue to support The Green Butterfly - we have less than 40 days!!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Location, Location, Location!
Well, I finally made it to downtown Flint to see if there might be a location for the cafe and store. While encouraged by the response of those with whom I spoke, there wasn't a space readily available that I could see or get pricing on. That kind of surprised me, especially since there still seemed to be a lot of empty store fronts on S. Saginaw. I met with the management at Capital Theater, Uptown Developments, The LandBank and the Flint DDA without any solid leads. I mostly heard, hmmm, there's that space over there that might be good, or I think so and so is moving around the corner so that might work, or that space would have been perfect but its leased. Not terribly helpful at this point. I was also told about locations in Grand Blanc and down by Mott College, but that is not the areas I wish to be in. I either want downtown Flushing, or downtown Flint. I dont want to drive to Grand Blanc or Clio everyday and since I also want to have community involvement, I want it to be a community which I care about and have some investment in terms of connection - I have that for Flint or Flushing, not the others.
Glad I decided not to register for the race this weekend - mostly to save money - its raining today and probably will all day and its very windy again, so I would NOT have enjoyed it or done well at all - phew - one right decision this week! Still have to get some miles in this weekend, so hope it at least dries out at some point.
Christine
Glad I decided not to register for the race this weekend - mostly to save money - its raining today and probably will all day and its very windy again, so I would NOT have enjoyed it or done well at all - phew - one right decision this week! Still have to get some miles in this weekend, so hope it at least dries out at some point.
Christine
Monday, April 11, 2011
Spring Training
It was so nice to run without five layers plus hat and gloves! I have survived my first winter as a runner. I completed 5 races and discovered wool socks. I also spent more for one pair of running pants than I have ever spent for any single piece of clothing, but cured the frozen thigh issue.
Yesterday it was over 75 degrees and breezy. I ran in capris and a tshirt style champion shirt with no shoe socks. And it was hot! And it was crowded! I have had many runs during which I have seen maybe 1 or 2 people, yesterday it was a mob of walkers, dogs, kids, bikes, rollerblades, and the occasional runner. Several times I had to walk due to the press.
I have a 5K on Saturday and after that the miles will increase as I ready for the 10 mile Crim in August and the half marathon in October. Right now my focus is increasing distance and then I will go for time.
See you on the trails!
Christine
Yesterday it was over 75 degrees and breezy. I ran in capris and a tshirt style champion shirt with no shoe socks. And it was hot! And it was crowded! I have had many runs during which I have seen maybe 1 or 2 people, yesterday it was a mob of walkers, dogs, kids, bikes, rollerblades, and the occasional runner. Several times I had to walk due to the press.
I have a 5K on Saturday and after that the miles will increase as I ready for the 10 mile Crim in August and the half marathon in October. Right now my focus is increasing distance and then I will go for time.
See you on the trails!
Christine
Friday, April 8, 2011
Spark and Hustle
Spark and Hustle - those two words inspire a lot of images, don't they? This week I have been immersed in the meaning of the two. Really it's been mostly learning about the hustle and the practical applications. I have met tons of women with the Spark, and many with the Hustle. I have been inspired and motivated, and believe even more strongly in my concept and mission to create this business and provide this service.
There was a speaker today who said to pay attention to the "coincidental" experiences in your daily life. When I checked into my hotel I was given a goodie bag which contained, among other things, a little magazine about the Chicago area - the cover declared it to be the "Green Issue" and has several articles about sustainable, green, eco-friendly products and services - coincidence? At dinner last night every one at my table chose the veggie pizza - coincidence? I heard a speaker who has created an amazing product called Signature Flan which is all natural, no artificial flavors or colors and by its nature vegetarian - and really delicious - coincidence? I have been constantly seeing signs that the time is now. I really believe that others are not only going to be receptive to my cafe' dishes but the options that the products will offer for their daily lives.
I can't wait to open! Oh, and Tory Johnson had some suggestions for my crowd funding site, so I will be tweaking that - please continue to pass along that information and help this business get open so I can get the service and products going!
There was a speaker today who said to pay attention to the "coincidental" experiences in your daily life. When I checked into my hotel I was given a goodie bag which contained, among other things, a little magazine about the Chicago area - the cover declared it to be the "Green Issue" and has several articles about sustainable, green, eco-friendly products and services - coincidence? At dinner last night every one at my table chose the veggie pizza - coincidence? I heard a speaker who has created an amazing product called Signature Flan which is all natural, no artificial flavors or colors and by its nature vegetarian - and really delicious - coincidence? I have been constantly seeing signs that the time is now. I really believe that others are not only going to be receptive to my cafe' dishes but the options that the products will offer for their daily lives.
I can't wait to open! Oh, and Tory Johnson had some suggestions for my crowd funding site, so I will be tweaking that - please continue to pass along that information and help this business get open so I can get the service and products going!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Huge Step!
This weekend will be a huge step towards cementing my business plan! I am so hoping to finally get things moving on the Indiegogo site and get all the ducks finally in line for the grand opening. Please keep a good thought, and pass along my crowdfunding website and help me get this going for the good of all! It's going to be so great!!!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Feeling Sick?
"I feel awful"; "The kids are sick again"; "I can't shake this cough/cold/sinus infection, etc"
Any of that sound familiar? Said it yourself?
While I am not a doctor in any way shape or form, nor am I an authority of any kind in regard to health care, I can say this - I have not been sick at all in over a year and my 13 year old son has not missed one day of school this year due to illness. "lucky" you say? Well, I have to believe its more than luck. I travel a lot for work, my son is exposed to the same colds and flus that other kids are, and we have experienced the same horrific weather as the rest of the midwest. So, what is the reason we have remained healthy while all others around us have fallen victim to one illness after another?
I believe it is due to our vegetarian diet, diligent attention to disinfecting hard surfaces, hand washing, vitamins, and a good amount of exercise. While Jared does not adhere to a strictly vegetarian diet, I do cook some meat for him and he eats it at his dad's, he probably does eat more vegetables in a week than most other kids his age. Jared gets a multi vitamin every day. We also try to get outside several times a day to walk the dog at the very least. I personally feel that running throughout the winter has helped me ward off any illness to which I may have been exposed. Shortly after the start of the year I shared a hotel room for a week in Vegas and LA. A day or two after our trip, my room mate had a severe case of the flu - I never even had a sniffle. I simply offer this for your consideration. I have had a couple of instances when I got that feeling that something might be coming - in those cases I intensified my ingestion of vitamin c (natural food sources) and drank lots of green tea. Quite frankly, I think I have to give some credit to Sobe Water. I started drinking it last year and now have stopped drinking any soda and just drink Sobe, tea, or coffee (or plain water). I drink at least two bottles a day, and I really think the extra vitamins have helped. I especially like it after a run. I really feel refreshed.
Jared did have a couple of days when he was fighting something off, but it never got bad enough for him to miss school. He did require anti-biotics for an ear infection, which for the first time in a long time did not respond to a homeopathic remedy. He has a history of ear infections when getting teeth and his wisdom teeth are starting their push. So, I am not saying we are some super-humans resistant to anything that might come our way, but I think we have a pretty good run going here, and I intend to remain diligent in my approach to our health. Maybe trying it out will help keep your family healthier too!
Dinner time does not need to be complicated. Tonight we had:
grilled eggplant topped with roasted baby portabello mushrooms (slice eggplant in circular pieces, drizzle with olive oil, season with paprika, garlic, black pepper, and top with mushrooms, then sprinkle with Italian blend cheese - bake at 350 for about 20 min or until tender and cheese is golden)
green peas
mashed potatoes (leave the skins on and add a small skinned sweet potato - boil til tender, hand mash with a little olive oil margarine and non fat plain yogurt. stir in paprika, garlic salt, black pepper)
Very satisfying and quick!
Christine
Any of that sound familiar? Said it yourself?
While I am not a doctor in any way shape or form, nor am I an authority of any kind in regard to health care, I can say this - I have not been sick at all in over a year and my 13 year old son has not missed one day of school this year due to illness. "lucky" you say? Well, I have to believe its more than luck. I travel a lot for work, my son is exposed to the same colds and flus that other kids are, and we have experienced the same horrific weather as the rest of the midwest. So, what is the reason we have remained healthy while all others around us have fallen victim to one illness after another?
I believe it is due to our vegetarian diet, diligent attention to disinfecting hard surfaces, hand washing, vitamins, and a good amount of exercise. While Jared does not adhere to a strictly vegetarian diet, I do cook some meat for him and he eats it at his dad's, he probably does eat more vegetables in a week than most other kids his age. Jared gets a multi vitamin every day. We also try to get outside several times a day to walk the dog at the very least. I personally feel that running throughout the winter has helped me ward off any illness to which I may have been exposed. Shortly after the start of the year I shared a hotel room for a week in Vegas and LA. A day or two after our trip, my room mate had a severe case of the flu - I never even had a sniffle. I simply offer this for your consideration. I have had a couple of instances when I got that feeling that something might be coming - in those cases I intensified my ingestion of vitamin c (natural food sources) and drank lots of green tea. Quite frankly, I think I have to give some credit to Sobe Water. I started drinking it last year and now have stopped drinking any soda and just drink Sobe, tea, or coffee (or plain water). I drink at least two bottles a day, and I really think the extra vitamins have helped. I especially like it after a run. I really feel refreshed.
Jared did have a couple of days when he was fighting something off, but it never got bad enough for him to miss school. He did require anti-biotics for an ear infection, which for the first time in a long time did not respond to a homeopathic remedy. He has a history of ear infections when getting teeth and his wisdom teeth are starting their push. So, I am not saying we are some super-humans resistant to anything that might come our way, but I think we have a pretty good run going here, and I intend to remain diligent in my approach to our health. Maybe trying it out will help keep your family healthier too!
Dinner time does not need to be complicated. Tonight we had:
grilled eggplant topped with roasted baby portabello mushrooms (slice eggplant in circular pieces, drizzle with olive oil, season with paprika, garlic, black pepper, and top with mushrooms, then sprinkle with Italian blend cheese - bake at 350 for about 20 min or until tender and cheese is golden)
green peas
mashed potatoes (leave the skins on and add a small skinned sweet potato - boil til tender, hand mash with a little olive oil margarine and non fat plain yogurt. stir in paprika, garlic salt, black pepper)
Very satisfying and quick!
Christine
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Soups!
It is still cold and snowy so I am experimenting with soups today! I have a plan for a milk-free cauliflower and a ham free pea soup.
Pea soup was always one of my favorites growing up. As you may know, ham is a base ingredient for split pea soup. I am trying some spices and using the rich broth I made yesterday to create that smoky, full flavor.
I love cauliflower and this is typically an inexpensive veggie, so it should be an easy item to incorporate into my cafe menu.
Jared has been doing a great job as tester and I appreciate that he will try things even if he isn't sure about it. He gives good feedback too, in fact, he is the one who suggested the cinnamon addition to my butternut squash soup because he said it was too bland. He really likes it now.
Please, if you are reading this, pass it along to others and remind them about my crowdfunding site at indiegogo.com (link is below)
Christine
Pea soup was always one of my favorites growing up. As you may know, ham is a base ingredient for split pea soup. I am trying some spices and using the rich broth I made yesterday to create that smoky, full flavor.
I love cauliflower and this is typically an inexpensive veggie, so it should be an easy item to incorporate into my cafe menu.
Jared has been doing a great job as tester and I appreciate that he will try things even if he isn't sure about it. He gives good feedback too, in fact, he is the one who suggested the cinnamon addition to my butternut squash soup because he said it was too bland. He really likes it now.
Please, if you are reading this, pass it along to others and remind them about my crowdfunding site at indiegogo.com (link is below)
Christine
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Spring?
Well, as I mentioned a few days ago, those of us in the Midwest know better than to pack away our sweaters and gloves just because the calendar says its spring. I did get another taste of the season as I traveled through out West Virginia this week and experienced 70 degree days and tons of daffodils along the roads. I felt a little guilty as I spoke with my son and he told me it was snowing at home! He ended up with a snow day from school - that's right - snow day on March 23. He didn't mind a bit.
Today it will be a high of about 20 and the race that was scheduled this morning here in Flushing has been postponed due to the snow and ice on the route. We are re-scheduled for April 2. Good thing it's after April Fools Day or I would have my doubts that it would take place. I heard it will be snowing during the cherry blossom festival in D.C. today, so at least we aren't alone in this.
One good thing about this continuing cold weather is I can keep making hot soups! I had planned to start working on cold soup recipes, but this weekend will be Butternut Squash and No Chicken Noodle.
My last batch of Butternut Squash soup substituted soy for dairy milk and added cinnamon during the final simmer phase; it earned the two bowl approval of my son. I will see if I can mimic that today.
My challenge with the noodle soup is to add some non-traditional flavor and keeping the noodles firm.
Hope there is warmth where you are even if the temperature is chilly!
Christine
Today it will be a high of about 20 and the race that was scheduled this morning here in Flushing has been postponed due to the snow and ice on the route. We are re-scheduled for April 2. Good thing it's after April Fools Day or I would have my doubts that it would take place. I heard it will be snowing during the cherry blossom festival in D.C. today, so at least we aren't alone in this.
One good thing about this continuing cold weather is I can keep making hot soups! I had planned to start working on cold soup recipes, but this weekend will be Butternut Squash and No Chicken Noodle.
My last batch of Butternut Squash soup substituted soy for dairy milk and added cinnamon during the final simmer phase; it earned the two bowl approval of my son. I will see if I can mimic that today.
My challenge with the noodle soup is to add some non-traditional flavor and keeping the noodles firm.
Hope there is warmth where you are even if the temperature is chilly!
Christine
Monday, March 21, 2011
Spring Opening
Well, spring arrived with a bang, literally, as we had rain and even thunder last night! The forecast calls for snow tonight - typical Michigan spring. Sunday was a quiet day at home watching basketball with Jared and the dogs. Great effort by the Wolverines against Duke - so close! We had left overs for lunch and dinner accompanied by salads
I managed a run before the rain began; it wasn't as long as I'd planned. I've got to start upping the miles, 3 miles a day do not a 1/2 marathon make.
I have been looking for Green product expos and during that search came upon an earth day 5K and expo in Chicago on April 23. Thinking about going and hoping some of my Chicago friends will join in.
Since the weather has remained chilly and overcast, it is a good time for chili! Again, this is an easy recipe to throw together when you are short on time as it uses canned beans and tomatoes. Of course for those days with lots of time, I like to use a crock pot and fresher ingredients.
For canned items look for organic and make sure no sugar or salt has been added.
Canned red and dark red kidney beans, garbonzo beans, and black beans. (at least 1 each)
canned diced tomatoes with chilis (2 small or 1 large)
cn fire roasted tomatoes (1 small)
small to medium onion
a couple cloves of garlic
paprika
chili powder
cinnamon
saute the onion and garlic in a little olive oil in large pot
add beans (with the liquid) and tomatoes
sprinkle in paprika and chili powder
stir together and cover
allow to simmer for about 20 min
add cinnamon in last couple of minutes.
serve with salad and cornbread ( we like to make cornbread muffins)
a version of this great meatless chili will be served at the cafe' - the flavor is rich and the heat can be adjusted to taste.
Christine
I managed a run before the rain began; it wasn't as long as I'd planned. I've got to start upping the miles, 3 miles a day do not a 1/2 marathon make.
I have been looking for Green product expos and during that search came upon an earth day 5K and expo in Chicago on April 23. Thinking about going and hoping some of my Chicago friends will join in.
Since the weather has remained chilly and overcast, it is a good time for chili! Again, this is an easy recipe to throw together when you are short on time as it uses canned beans and tomatoes. Of course for those days with lots of time, I like to use a crock pot and fresher ingredients.
For canned items look for organic and make sure no sugar or salt has been added.
Canned red and dark red kidney beans, garbonzo beans, and black beans. (at least 1 each)
canned diced tomatoes with chilis (2 small or 1 large)
cn fire roasted tomatoes (1 small)
small to medium onion
a couple cloves of garlic
paprika
chili powder
cinnamon
saute the onion and garlic in a little olive oil in large pot
add beans (with the liquid) and tomatoes
sprinkle in paprika and chili powder
stir together and cover
allow to simmer for about 20 min
add cinnamon in last couple of minutes.
serve with salad and cornbread ( we like to make cornbread muffins)
a version of this great meatless chili will be served at the cafe' - the flavor is rich and the heat can be adjusted to taste.
Christine
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Saturdays are Awesome!
What a beautiful day - the sun is shining, the air is fresh, albeit a little chilly, and I saw several shoots of green protruding! I slept in a bit later today, as I have been staying up late watching basketball. The games have been very exciting and it is fun to watch school teams you don't usually see on TV. Unhappily, Michigan State is out, but Michigan poured it on strong yesterday, so we still have a "hometown" team to cheer for!
I went for a 3 mile run while Jared played basketball with his dad. Did an easy loop around the block starting from Flushing Central Elementary with a decent time - 30 min. Next Saturday there is a half marathon here in Flushing, but I'm not ready for that yet, so I will be doing a 5K. Hoping to crack the top 10!
I have started receiving contributions on the crowdfunding site! Thank you so much to all who are checking it out and passing the information along - I can't wait to welcome all of you to the cafe' and I know you will enjoy checking out the neat, eco-friendly items I am finding for the store. There are some really innovative, fun, interesting, useful items out there.
Last night we had cheese pizza and salad - sometimes we put veggies on, but last night we just felt like cheese.
Tonight is whole wheat spaghetti with tomatoe sauce and veggies and salad.Who started the meat ball thing? I don't know, but if "plain" sauce is not hearty enough for you, try adding vegetables like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and mushrooms, as well as onion. Saute' the onion and mushrooms and steam the veggies before adding to the sauce. Sprinkle with cheese - try goat cheese (feta) it adds a lot of flavor - to serve and you will have a hearty, wholesome, filling meal without added fat and cholesterol. Other vegetables that work well are eggplant, asparagus, and peppers.
While hot dishes will not be featured at the cafe' don't be surprised to find occasional pizza or pasta days! These are two of the easiest dishes to turn vegetarian and customize to individual tastes.
Hope everyone gets outside this weekend!
Christine
I went for a 3 mile run while Jared played basketball with his dad. Did an easy loop around the block starting from Flushing Central Elementary with a decent time - 30 min. Next Saturday there is a half marathon here in Flushing, but I'm not ready for that yet, so I will be doing a 5K. Hoping to crack the top 10!
I have started receiving contributions on the crowdfunding site! Thank you so much to all who are checking it out and passing the information along - I can't wait to welcome all of you to the cafe' and I know you will enjoy checking out the neat, eco-friendly items I am finding for the store. There are some really innovative, fun, interesting, useful items out there.
Last night we had cheese pizza and salad - sometimes we put veggies on, but last night we just felt like cheese.
Tonight is whole wheat spaghetti with tomatoe sauce and veggies and salad.Who started the meat ball thing? I don't know, but if "plain" sauce is not hearty enough for you, try adding vegetables like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and mushrooms, as well as onion. Saute' the onion and mushrooms and steam the veggies before adding to the sauce. Sprinkle with cheese - try goat cheese (feta) it adds a lot of flavor - to serve and you will have a hearty, wholesome, filling meal without added fat and cholesterol. Other vegetables that work well are eggplant, asparagus, and peppers.
While hot dishes will not be featured at the cafe' don't be surprised to find occasional pizza or pasta days! These are two of the easiest dishes to turn vegetarian and customize to individual tastes.
Hope everyone gets outside this weekend!
Christine
Friday, March 18, 2011
New Beginnings
I have added the information for the crowdfunding campaign for the Green Butterfly! Please pass this along and contribute if you can - there are perks! So nice to hear the birds singing and see the temperatures above freezing, but those of us living in the Midwest know this may only be a brief reprieve and not the true end of winter weather. It is a nice preview and reminds us that no matter how cold and dark it may be, there is light and warmth coming.
Tonight we will be making my favorite black bean tacos. These have become a staple meal since I began my vegetarian journey. My son loves them! When time is tight, or its just been a long day, this is a quick easy version which is very satisfying:
1 can organic black beans (or # needed for you family)
1 can organic tomatoes with green chilis (or # needed for your family)
fresh cilantro
fresh garlic
small onion
virgin olive oil
low fat cheese - shredded - we usually use colby - buy in block and shred yourself
shredded romaine lettuce
non fat plain yogurt
whole wheat soft taco shells
chop onion and garlic and saute' in about 2 ts of olive oil. Add the black beans and tomatoes and simmer til heated through, stirring occassionally. Use kitchen shears to snip cilantro into the mixture and stir in and allow to heat through again. Spoon into whole wheat soft shells with lettuce, cheese and plain yogurt. If desired, you can also add some avocado slices (we're allergic to that, unfortunately)
This will be a mildly spicey dish - you can add red pepper flakes to increase the heat if desired.
Trust me, no one will miss the meat or the grease!
Enjoy the day -
Christine
Tonight we will be making my favorite black bean tacos. These have become a staple meal since I began my vegetarian journey. My son loves them! When time is tight, or its just been a long day, this is a quick easy version which is very satisfying:
1 can organic black beans (or # needed for you family)
1 can organic tomatoes with green chilis (or # needed for your family)
fresh cilantro
fresh garlic
small onion
virgin olive oil
low fat cheese - shredded - we usually use colby - buy in block and shred yourself
shredded romaine lettuce
non fat plain yogurt
whole wheat soft taco shells
chop onion and garlic and saute' in about 2 ts of olive oil. Add the black beans and tomatoes and simmer til heated through, stirring occassionally. Use kitchen shears to snip cilantro into the mixture and stir in and allow to heat through again. Spoon into whole wheat soft shells with lettuce, cheese and plain yogurt. If desired, you can also add some avocado slices (we're allergic to that, unfortunately)
This will be a mildly spicey dish - you can add red pepper flakes to increase the heat if desired.
Trust me, no one will miss the meat or the grease!
Enjoy the day -
Christine
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Pupa Stage
This has been my life for some time, in the pupa stage, waiting for the right time to break open the chrysalis and emerge as my beautiful butterfly self. The time is now. I have stopped dreaming and started doing. I have found suppliers, I am looking for a space and I have a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo.com -http://www.indiegogo.com/The-GREEN-Butterfly, and I am attending Tory Johnson's Spark and Hustle conference in Chicago in April!
Please follow along with me on my journey to open a vegetarian cafe and eco-friendly store. Along the way I will also be training for my first half-marathon, testing vegetarian recipes for the cafe, and researching easy, inexpensive eco-friendly solutions for every day use. I am so excited!
Christine
Please follow along with me on my journey to open a vegetarian cafe and eco-friendly store. Along the way I will also be training for my first half-marathon, testing vegetarian recipes for the cafe, and researching easy, inexpensive eco-friendly solutions for every day use. I am so excited!
Christine
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