tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20390689593587709352024-03-13T00:49:53.486-05:00Leesha's LifeA journey through my newly Vegan life. Topics may also include graphic design, photography, vegan living, diet, environment, running, absurdities and positivities. This blog is my commitment to be a better person by moving toward being conscious of my effect on the world.. however minimal it may seem.Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-24776085794289616652010-02-03T18:28:00.005-06:002010-02-03T19:03:17.699-06:00A new family member + some Chaos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYA0prkiPw8Xv6WZRnY7n0hARQG0AIYs5wyYSvTG7Hdb0KGgrrnO9fcHxRtzOfm4_dPKMf3V83JE2qK6jujQhAujPZBFunWhd3FGqP2vWe04xxzIfzTjc6W3h-EGsWr-slJeXt0IxzHvwh/s1600-h/photo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYA0prkiPw8Xv6WZRnY7n0hARQG0AIYs5wyYSvTG7Hdb0KGgrrnO9fcHxRtzOfm4_dPKMf3V83JE2qK6jujQhAujPZBFunWhd3FGqP2vWe04xxzIfzTjc6W3h-EGsWr-slJeXt0IxzHvwh/s200/photo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434186741647886178" /></a>I've got Good News! I adopted another doggy. She was found in the same area of Texas and looks exactly like him, so she's got to be family. We saw her picture on petfinder.com and felt compelled to go save her. Plus, we've been considering getting a play-mate for Spencer. He really loves other dogs and wants to play all the time. <div><br /></div><div>Adopting her was a truly odd & memorable experience. We arrived at this farm in Texas and the lady has 40 dogs she is fostering. 40! Plus some cows... Obviously there is shit everywhere. There were some dogs that were loose in the driveway that she quickly shooed into her truck. We stepped into her yard to be greeted by a very sweet Basset Hound. The foster lady (no name) came over and HIT THE DOG IN THE FACE to tell him to get down. Matt and I looked at each other like "Are you kidding me?!" So we follow her in, eyebrows still raised... The moment she steps inside this big dog bites her finger- TO THE BONE.. She kicks the dog and drags him to a room and shuts the door then tries to show us how to the bone the cut actually is. If you know Matt and I you know we're total babies when it comes to this stuff. Matt is having to sit down and I'm having to put a band-aid on this ladies finger that is partly off the bone. I've never seen anything more disgusting!</div><div><br /></div><div>I glance around- 6 dogs in kennels in this main room, I can hear some thumping upstairs, the Bassett Hound is crying outside, I'm worried about the 2 dogs in the truck and the big dog is whining in the room it was put in. Meanwhile, the lady is bleeding while trying to tell us about the dog we came to adopt. I decide quickly that I've got to save Freckles and I didn't really hear much else she was saying because 2 thoughts were filling my head 1. We've got to get out of here 2. with Freckles</div><div><br /></div><div>And we meet "Freckles". She runs out of her kennel straight into my arms and stays there licking my face and snuggling into my chest, tail wagging frantically. She meets Spencer and they both are wagging their tales. The lady goes on and on about how "identical these 2 look" and saying "we gotta get a picture of those 2" So we try to hold them into a forced pose so she can take the picture. Matt and I are still shooting "OMG" glances at each other. </div><div><br /></div><div>We finally finish the paper work, talking, paying and go to leave. But she insists on us getting a picture outside.. So again we try to force the dogs into holding a pose looking at the camera. My knees are sinking into the mud while she tries to get her camera to work right. We go to leave and Freckles steps in a 2" high pile of cow poo and I think "AHH, WE'RE NEVER GOING TO GET OUT OF HERE!" </div><div><br /></div><div>We wiped her paws off and finally were on our way home. It was a long hour of driving with this drooling, wild, poop smellin' puppy.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was told Freckles had been there since September and I just realized this-- driving away <b>she never looked back</b>. </div><div> </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-3067394028577898562010-01-22T12:31:00.003-06:002010-01-22T12:47:10.502-06:00Asthma/Vegan insight<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 51, 102); font-weight: bold; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px; font-family:'Arial Narrow';font-size:large;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">After reading my last post about me having asthma I realized that I haven't had any asthma attacks all winter. Normally I have to take my inhaler several times a day and take preventative/steroid meds during this season. I pretty much JUST REALIZED this. I've never had such an easy time breathing. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I am sitting here seriously in amazement. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">After some quick research I ran across this:</span></span></div><div><br /></div>"A 1985 Swedish study demonstrated that asthmatics<br />who practice a vegan diet for a full year<br />have a marked decrease in their need for medications,<br />and in their frequency and severity of asthma attacks."</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Arial Narrow', serif;color:#003366;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Arial Narrow', serif;color:#003366;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102); font-weight: normal; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; line-height: 18px; font-family:Verdana, Arial;font-size:12px;">"The theoretical basis for the value of vegan diets is the absence of potential triggers, particularly dairy products and eggs, as well as a relative lack of arachidonic acid."</span></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial;font-size:100%;color:#000066;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-size:12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial;font-size:100%;color:#000066;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-size:12px;">http://www.naturalnews.com/010443_asthma_food_dairy_products.html</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial;font-size:100%;color:#000066;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-size:12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;">I never would have guessed that I would be vegetarian or vegan. The benefits have been life changing. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;">This is a list of how changing my diet has effected me personally:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• 10lb weight loss and holding..</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• Reduced asthma episodes</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• Decreased 'bad' Cholesterol levels</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• Negated PCOS symptoms</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• Balanced Hormone levels</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;">• Increased taste awareness</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 3px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 3px;font-size:large;">• Increased energy</span></span></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-35042291590134666982010-01-19T17:48:00.005-06:002010-01-19T18:13:21.775-06:00A Delectable Vegan Delight<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxiBsK30B2EwJjwoTLea9V0M3bYLFmiQdN7H7tV6AY_WCmhyphenhyphenc2vqvk7A4hsfDybfQuOP_GBjicjLQ94CVseJ4BaZ_KGKtYO32BT8VOwM6QTtdOhgC690Z4xm4RxGGnVeibIQmwKzVuslz/s1600-h/Picture+15.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 84px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxiBsK30B2EwJjwoTLea9V0M3bYLFmiQdN7H7tV6AY_WCmhyphenhyphenc2vqvk7A4hsfDybfQuOP_GBjicjLQ94CVseJ4BaZ_KGKtYO32BT8VOwM6QTtdOhgC690Z4xm4RxGGnVeibIQmwKzVuslz/s200/Picture+15.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428608101534189090" /></a><div>Matt and I received gift cards to Souper Salad and I never realized how vegan friendly there selection was. I mean I know OBVIOUSLY they have salad, but I have a hard time <i>just</i> eating salad for lunch. I just have a hard time getting excited about eating leaves.</div><div><br /></div><div>So I was somewhat content with my plate full of salad and I thought I would check on the other items on the bar. The Vegetable Soup had a big sign above it that started with "A delectable Vegan delight..." This was very exciting. A lot of restaurants include cheese, dairy or cream in their soups so this was a wonderful surprise. Now the phrase has stuck in my head and I want to use that description for everything- Bean Enchiladas= "a delectable vegan delight"</div><div><br /></div><div>Today we ate there again and I really paid attention to all the detailed cards and several things are vegan, including the Corn Bread! </div><div><br /></div><div>Here is the list if you're interested:</div><div>http://www.soupersalad.com/Special%20Diets.pdf</div><div><br /></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-56255388743885864742010-01-14T23:26:00.002-06:002010-01-14T23:44:48.140-06:00The Human Spirit<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; ">"The <b>Human Spirit</b> is an emergent property of intelligence that drives it to adapt the environment to the organism. This drive is relatively unique to humans and is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progress" title="Progress" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">progressive</a> in that the drive allows intelligence to grow. This emergent property reveals itself in the reiteration of factors presented as obstacles to an organism, group, or society. </span><b><i>As the complexity of these factors grows, the Human Spirit responds accordingly by creating solutions that best adapt the environment to the individual, group, or social organism."</i></b> ~Wikipedia </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I'm sitting here full of grief for those in Haiti. I can't sleep knowing thousands of people are trapped in buildings and suffering. But this tragedy conveys the goodness of the Human Spirit. At the core, Humans are GOOD, Compassionate, Loving, Protective, and eager to help others. In times of crisis this is so evident.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Its hard to imagine that somewhere else in the world wars and destruction are every day. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">3 years ago I started listening to NPR while car pooling with a friend. I told her I didn't think I could handle listening to all of the world news. I was used to my sheltered bubble. In fact, I remember being depressed at times worrying about coal mining and the killing of seals and all the endless wars and terrorist attacks and tragedies. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Now I know to feel this pain is good. To let yourself feel this pain is to be aware and informed. And being aware creates Action. To donate, to pray, and to go and help. If a being in this world suffers then I can bear the pain of hearing their story. </span></span></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-91817791625559599632010-01-09T11:58:00.004-06:002010-01-09T12:24:36.525-06:00Huffington Post articlehttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/ari-solomon/who-you-callin-vegangelic_b_290582.html<div><br /></div><div>I thought this article was very interesting. I love the message. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm still thinking about the comment of a person not being considered vegan if they are not doing it for ethical reasons. I have to disagree. I don't believe people choices are as clear cut as that and there is no way to measure why someone might choose to be vegan.</div><div><br /></div><div>Looking back, I realize that my own journey to veganism was a complex series of events throughout my life that opened my mind and heart to choosing this direction. And whether someone is just beginning to explore a vegan diet or is living 100% vegan, that is the path they have chosen and the lifestyle they have chosen to identify with. There is alot to be said for that. I don't think any vegan or vegetarian should be judged on the pace of their change or on their failures.. It's the DIRECTION that counts. It's the GOAL that has meaning, not just the full realization of the goal. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is a process. In my life, I was always curious about vegetarianism and veganism, but I never understood it. When I watched the "Meet your Meat" video I cried and realized what compassion for animals meant, but before that I never knew what I needed to be compassionate about. When I read the "Skinny Bitch" book it became clear to me that the way I had been eating was truly unhealthy. These 2 events in my life along with several memorable conversations with vegetarians throughout the years sparked a huge lifestyle change.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ever since I began a vegan diet (almost on a whim) my heart has continued to open up to the exploitation and suffering of farm animals. I've done well with switching to a vegan diet 100% and am focused on changing out my beauty products to be 100% vegan as well (not something I can afford to do all at once). </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope that all vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores will have compassion for each other and understand that we all do our best in every way we can. If we continue to encourage each other to make positive changes then we will all be better for it. If we judge and criticize then no change will be made. I have no problem with anyone wanting to identify with being vegan or vegetarian for whatever reason -health, environmental, or ethical. <b><i>In the end, the reduced consumption of animal products is the Goal and that is what will reduce the suffering of these animals. </i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>Similarly, I would consider myself an Environmentalist, but know that I can do so much more. I still consider myself a Runner and am working on increasing my efforts in that regard too. <b><i>Always aim to be the best you can be in every way you can, and the world will be a better place for it. </i></b></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-13838213358502875692010-01-07T14:47:00.003-06:002010-01-07T15:27:55.556-06:00Why not go vegan?So over the last months I have been joyfully discovering foods, baking, cooking, and sharing with everyone I know. I've been surprising and inspiring myself and others! <div><br /></div><div>Recently, I dared my mom to taste the vegan butter "Earth Balance" and she couldn't tell the difference! And I was like "See, it's good!" I keep coming to the point, if vegan food tastes just as good, then why not choose the vegan options? If you can make small changes that don't effect you, but decrease the amount of suffering in the world, then why not. </div><div><br /></div><div>I understand completely abstaining from eating things is hard. Part of it is breaking physical addictions and cravings, and even harder is breaking tradition and habit. </div><div><br /></div><div>But making small changes is easy. Example, if you've tried Tofu Manicotti then you know it tastes just like Ricotta Manicotti.. so why not choose the Healthier and more Compassionate meal. </div><div><br /></div><div>My mom has been surprised by several dishes I have made for her. Beany Enchiladas, Tortilla Soup, Chocolate Chip cookies. A vegan diet can be just as filling, comforting, nutritious and luxurious as a non-vegan diet. Everyone gobbles up the vegan cookies I make from "The Joy of Vegan Baking" cookbook, and when I tell them they're vegan they are shocked. </div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I don't feel deprived. I have discovered so many NEW foods. The other day I tried Curry and it is MY NEW FAVORITE FOOD. And I know I've tried it before in my life and hated it. But now it is amazing. There are so many levels of flavors to it. I really feel like I was missing out before. I feel like dairy and cheese made things bland, and made me used to bland food where I could not enjoy the wide variety and spices of delicious ethnic foods out there. </div><div><br /></div><div>For Christmas, I gave my parents a "cook healthy" basket filled with 2 new Saute pans, 2 diet books on "Eating for Life" with a vegetarian focus, some cooking utensils, nuts etc. And today she just called me and told me she wants to try a vegan diet for 6 weeks to see if she loses weight. I'm so excited for her and I bet she will see weight loss like I did. Everyone wants their parents to live long and healthy lives. </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-23010186318490293842010-01-03T19:02:00.006-06:002010-01-03T19:32:42.068-06:00Introducing..<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJ_f3jT5SssFBMbfkqz2m-8a6OMXxygjPyi5-CaKhBMY_YuluoklL4bjQua4IF9ldQVtbzV4_wcxY6WtXInEn_mR_0msi-6W5-hHyZE9I5-mVsmDyuBQMci3P6MCI8clLCCuCziOa0PO3/s1600-h/photo-3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJ_f3jT5SssFBMbfkqz2m-8a6OMXxygjPyi5-CaKhBMY_YuluoklL4bjQua4IF9ldQVtbzV4_wcxY6WtXInEn_mR_0msi-6W5-hHyZE9I5-mVsmDyuBQMci3P6MCI8clLCCuCziOa0PO3/s200/photo-3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422690256209899314" /></a><b>The Mini-Chilada!</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div>This is truly an exciting moment here. I was making one of my favorite vegan dinners- Bean Enchiladas and decided to fry up some mini-enchiladas with the leftover mixture. My enchilada recipe evolves every time I make it, each time closer and closer to my ideal enchilada (and each time a little more complex). Here are the details for both:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><b>Double Bean Enchilada w/ Green Chile Sauce-</b></span></div><div>1) SAUTÉ - Chopped onions, Chopped Cilantro, Red Bell Pepper, and crushed, fresh Garlic in Olive Oil--- Set aside</div><div>2) MIX (in bowl or in Saucepan on Low-Med) - 1 Drained can of Black Beans, 1 can Rotel, 1 can Vegetarian Refried Beans ---Set aside</div><div>3) FRY - Big Size Corn Tortillas in Smart Balance brand Vegetable Oil in a skillet. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was brave this time and added a couple drops of lime juice with each tortilla. BE Careful! The Oil gets really spitty with the lime added. Ouch! I guess we could just sprinkle lime juice into one of the mixes.</span></i></div><div>4) ROLL EM' - Ideally you'll have a handsome helper with you to roll the enchiladas with the ingredients in the middle as you keep frying the others. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">You can also choose to add in Vegan Cheese like Tofutti American slices in the middle, or on top. </span></i></div><div>5) TOP EM'- At this point you can either simply POUR the Green Enchilada Sauce directly on top of the rolled enchiladas in the pan OR you can try thickening the sauce on the stove with a tsp of Corn Starch. I also have added a dash of Nutritional Yeast for a little more of a cheese flavor. Yum! Black Olives are a nice touch too.</div><div>6) BAKE IT- 350F till you can't stand it any longer.<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Update-</span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I just got mine out after 45min and that seemed to be a little too long.</span></i></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-weight: bold; ">Mini-Chiladas</span></div><div>It's a Sunday evening and I'm waiting for Matt to get home so we can eat this yummy food. The full enchiladas are cooking in the oven and I'm staring at the leftover bean mixture and some smaller size corn tortillas. So of course, I decide to FRY EM UP!</div><div><br /></div><div>DIRECTIONS:</div><div>Cut corn tortillas in half and FRY in same pan. Flip once. Drop a small dollop of bean mixture making sure not to spill onto the pan. Using tongs and a fork, Roll or Fold as tightly as possible in the pan. Take out and set aside to cool. </div><div><br /></div><div>The picture above is the last mini-chilada left..<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(yes I ate the rest)</span></i> waiting for Matt to eat him when he gets home..</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-21634351961849652542010-01-01T08:17:00.006-06:002010-01-01T09:14:02.841-06:002009 in Retrospect<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-k5RW9J3rYR7p1pHshZAGv-Fjl-iy-LMZ1vsLZ86s4jb0W3n-Vn-cJf8sXTSlFKf-K96gsnNRWyb30cZMN6NPOjwyYjiqMNmfMl59WLSm-1W_SsPCZ9K7ptIElo515GiAcTK0l_s8sCy/s1600-h/IMG_0322.JPG"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlJ-4kP2GoFpMa8XvDO3kVDgVtLrnH1tY9fVryksDW_cOjWw795F8tWN2ghGbZMevvx-19sh5SpsyInLoNDAoY3J1PXRjqCc7ckWuwX2ULJC3XfDOKZ1ZzIWtuZYCpmD2xhOupEitjRyn/s1600-h/IMG_0359.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlJ-4kP2GoFpMa8XvDO3kVDgVtLrnH1tY9fVryksDW_cOjWw795F8tWN2ghGbZMevvx-19sh5SpsyInLoNDAoY3J1PXRjqCc7ckWuwX2ULJC3XfDOKZ1ZzIWtuZYCpmD2xhOupEitjRyn/s320/IMG_0359.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421787942799274514" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXz485xGj_7wi24LwBbSEBpv1pf0pJCU6Uba3xgfqt09XorUseaCepHyiN6kYqcZ-MChdOrRFzaRJwLT_2tgRczrtySyLlms8Tpzlx_CqLAk-EY38Za6tGyd-U7fYhrkXffmiAumg0MFE3/s1600-h/IMG_0359.JPG"></a><b>2009 was a year of insane CHANGE!</b><div>1)HOUSELESS to HOMEY</div><div>A year ago today we were living in a 3rd floor apartment saving everything we could to buy a house. As soon as we received our paychecks we took about half and put it immediately into savings. Anytime we got extra money or Matt did side jobs that went straight to Smarty Pig. I did alot of photography and design on the side and Matt did alot of shooting for Cheaters- ya that show that comes on TV in the middle of the night. I actually don't like the show, but I love that it made our home possible. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-6uC0RmtqiaoXAVJu3hjIgOSyq9SGNeeQOaq9NF9rYSNGb6cRlnd96RZyiF_k2FPZ9_sPCtzSSjJX_5xPdWSw0wQdeB-yDHRSt_Y5aaPECXeZEQGzuXiNWMEXCNt_pmkDFl-MqtYsr5L/s320/IMG_0369.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421788511826329586" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span><div>2) We became DOGGY PARENTS</div><div>As soon as we bought the house and got settled in I started the search for our new family member. Matt and I couldn't agree on what type of dog we wanted. I wanted a Cocker Spaniel, he wanted a Corgi.. I wanted a mini-poodle mix, he wanted a running dog.. I sent Matt pictures he sent me pictures. And then I found Spencer on petfinder.com. It said he was a Brittany Spaniel mix.. so I sent Matt a picture of a Cocker Spaniel, Spencer, and some small dog and as expected Matt replied how he didn't like Cocker Spaniels or the small dog but that Spencer was PERFECT! We both knew instantly. The lady we adopted him from was a little spacey but we finally got him and love him so much. I never knew he would bring us so much JOY! </div><div><br /></div><div>Last night we had a little scare. We had some friends over for a New Year's Eve dinner and somehow our front door didn't get closed all the way. As soon as I noticed the door I realized Spencer had gotten out. Our friend immediately set off his car alarm and we called out for Spencer. Spencer immediately came sprinting back (across 2 busy streets). It was scary, but I'm so happy he came back to us and didn't wander too far. </div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Zhblaj_n-zqjwVErros1-FU00OC0BRN3-CHqV3s-c3dhSWB5oQZD6PFM7p-w2NoHCtn7J6t_67GroiAoeVnXM_FwZXW81cj3K23sLOohn_kJQKG8-iwxD7WaQeN5TWL-eWyPvZSPdEfV/s320/IMG_1700.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421789213189613202" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span><div>3) Matt finished SCHOOL!</div><div>OMG, what a sigh of relief. Matt doing his degree was almost as stressful for me as doing my own. His most recent project that is now at the DMA took over a year of work.. which means a year of me waiting for that project to be over. Although, now that his school is over he immediately jumped into an independent project developing a game with some friends. I think I may have to realize that he will always have a project going. It makes me wonder about the wives of inventors or other artists. How did they deal with a man that is so passionate about his work? </div><div><br /></div><div>Recently I was watching an interview with Michelle Obama and they asked her what she felt when Barack told her he was going to run for President.. She was opposed, she wanted him home with his family but she knew that he would be the president she wanted also. So she supported his decision. </div><div><br /></div><div>It really makes me wonder how many women have struggled with accidentally preventing their men from doing great things.. or vice versa how many men have prevented their wives from doing great things.</div><div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-k5RW9J3rYR7p1pHshZAGv-Fjl-iy-LMZ1vsLZ86s4jb0W3n-Vn-cJf8sXTSlFKf-K96gsnNRWyb30cZMN6NPOjwyYjiqMNmfMl59WLSm-1W_SsPCZ9K7ptIElo515GiAcTK0l_s8sCy/s320/IMG_0322.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421789500909167618" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></span><div>4) CARNIVORE to HERBIVORE</div><div>A year ago my favorite food was cheese enchiladas with queso on top. I seriously put cheese on almost everything. I was addicted. I bought blocks of cheese and ate them at all times of the day. Matt used to always tell me that if I just quit eating cheese I would lose so much weight. Well all those times he said that it finally stuck and I bet he never thought I'd actually act on it. </div><div><br /></div><div>My cheese addiction was really a catalyst for me becoming vegan. I really wanted to purge myself of dairy and animal products and just see what would happen. A quick 10lb drop happened and I had alot of energy! I loved it! I felt light and clean inside too, not sluggish or tired. </div><div><br /></div><div>One really strange thing I had not counted on was the flavor sensitivity I gained. After 3 weeks or so I started to notice a more vibrant flavor of vegetables and fruits. It was like I hadn't truly been tasting these foods. I also noticed how salty fast food was. Along with the flavor sensitivity I also started to notice a sensitivity to medicines. I'm not sure why, but now when I take some medicines I feel like I was given an elephant's dosage. I often feel buzzy, high, or super depressed. I can actually feel the medicine begin when it hits my blood stream.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I am acutely AWARE. Physically, Mentally, Emotionally. Awareness is anguish at times, but I wouldn't go back and unlearn anything. I'm happy to be healthier and not contribute to all the suffering connected with the meat industry.</div><div><br /></div><div>2009 has been a good year, filled with many blessings. Matt and I have really settled into our marriage and our lives together. We know how to share a bed without elbowing the other person in the face. I learned how to cook yummy food using organic fruits and veggies, fresh herbs, and healthy oils. We come home to a wagging tail and dog hugs. What more could you want in life?! </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-43183225765406647502009-12-15T11:49:00.004-06:002009-12-15T11:56:29.179-06:00Knitted handbag-Trial, error, and success<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-u7T_i6htApcLg5iiE-Nd4jp5TlFoT_1EtZtuEFTAfcNJEJD1SLCYBvx6Mg_KiHVXC-A_h4LkSc5jCH_CivIzU_zonHA_Anyls8lFQ9d5H9PaWbWumsqHR1Q1y8vne7ypEUuGf2AfXTZ/s400/Photo+104.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415521861729493890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">This knitted bag was suppose to be a big circle shape with 2 circle pieces that would be sewed together and I mistakenly over-increased and it had these 2 boobie shapes. So I played around with it for awhile and realized it could work as 1 piece in this shape above. Can't believe my mistake turned into such a cool piece. AND I figured out how to knit onto the handles.. it was more of a crochet technique I think.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FdW4pWeJRGrF7_VXo14OgcHp8zUqWIEsYdAc4rteUv7ihBoL-rwhdqh9tlMBygZZvG6wBo2MjEIZDPh9rzvXZ4YPSXw_VXICcPvEkHU_rfPtoiJCOezFvjqeB7wOB0QLoHThGSKQto-T/s1600-h/Photo+105.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FdW4pWeJRGrF7_VXo14OgcHp8zUqWIEsYdAc4rteUv7ihBoL-rwhdqh9tlMBygZZvG6wBo2MjEIZDPh9rzvXZ4YPSXw_VXICcPvEkHU_rfPtoiJCOezFvjqeB7wOB0QLoHThGSKQto-T/s400/Photo+105.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415521950374209426" /></a>I'm trying to decide if I want to pin the top edges in to make it this shape. I also want to add a lining and an interior pocket. I need to find a pretty silky like fabric.. and then figure out how to sew. Trial and error eventually lead to success.<div><div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-u7T_i6htApcLg5iiE-Nd4jp5TlFoT_1EtZtuEFTAfcNJEJD1SLCYBvx6Mg_KiHVXC-A_h4LkSc5jCH_CivIzU_zonHA_Anyls8lFQ9d5H9PaWbWumsqHR1Q1y8vne7ypEUuGf2AfXTZ/s1600-h/Photo+104.jpg"></a><br /></div></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-43196411396605477562009-12-14T10:54:00.005-06:002009-12-15T09:05:06.499-06:00Flop<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRi9T1yKpkN8Yp-qYKie0to-_o6Y7QqWVP-n_2MgGCbQVD04WPo4FzPWu86x_2My78PHNp3LRWSzDEA27Z_1RpGsK1OZqw9sZ8L1nm34oFTuM7xmHdiFxmA5YooZwGzsR1cI00WJc5L5d/s1600-h/photo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRi9T1yKpkN8Yp-qYKie0to-_o6Y7QqWVP-n_2MgGCbQVD04WPo4FzPWu86x_2My78PHNp3LRWSzDEA27Z_1RpGsK1OZqw9sZ8L1nm34oFTuM7xmHdiFxmA5YooZwGzsR1cI00WJc5L5d/s400/photo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415136993324809266" /></a>Ha! This is the funniest thing I have knitted. I was trying for a soft Cowl that could be used like a scarf to keep the neck warm.. you know like those droopy cowls that are usually attached to sweaters. <div><br /></div><div>I don't know what happened.. I think I just knitted it too tight. I might try again with a larger needle and thinner yarn. It just doesn't drape right. </div><div><br /></div><div>Matt and I had alot of fun figuring out different uses for it. Hee hee, still laughing.. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRi9T1yKpkN8Yp-qYKie0to-_o6Y7QqWVP-n_2MgGCbQVD04WPo4FzPWu86x_2My78PHNp3LRWSzDEA27Z_1RpGsK1OZqw9sZ8L1nm34oFTuM7xmHdiFxmA5YooZwGzsR1cI00WJc5L5d/s1600-h/photo.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRi9T1yKpkN8Yp-qYKie0to-_o6Y7QqWVP-n_2MgGCbQVD04WPo4FzPWu86x_2My78PHNp3LRWSzDEA27Z_1RpGsK1OZqw9sZ8L1nm34oFTuM7xmHdiFxmA5YooZwGzsR1cI00WJc5L5d/s1600-h/photo.jpg"></a></div><div><br /></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-22521288150705541002009-12-11T21:27:00.006-06:002009-12-11T22:07:01.939-06:00Redemption<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_f1tM_EhEnNfy-Oev8gTWqZT6rn_SSAPlX50mD2kqhrpO8MWUa17glTUMiwbU3w9Flml1nG00xTOGN-INavw01unC_W4NBLh13vFTOPcigPFa2Paw9dXKGbcFpeg103OznelAKLCxrEm/s1600-h/Photo-84.jpg"></a>I'm a stress eater, a bored eater, you name it. I emotionally eat. And lately I have been super stressed worrying about the longevity of my job. The kind of worrying that feels like an earthquake is coming.. and I want comfort food!<div><br /></div><div>The last couple of days have suddenly become the most difficult in this whole time of living veg. I feel so incredibly guilty for even having the thought.. so softly in my head.. the thought of eating a Chic-Fil-a sandwich. And then the whispered thought gets louder, like seriously I want a ....! At this moment I'm typing this I still can't believe I even struggled with that thought and its gross to me.. at this moment. Sitting by the fire, listening to some new music Matt got - "For Tet"- I'm not stressed at this moment and can think clearly. </div><div><br /></div><div>Why is it Chic-fil-a? Why am I admitting that thought to anyone? The first time I faced this temptation Matt talked me out of it.. This time I made it all the way into the drive-thru line and then ordered a salad no meat, no cheese and a side of waffle fries. I was proud that I conquered that temptation, but then at dinner that night with Matt I actually ordered fish tacos AND ate 1. I don't know what to think about it. The taste definitely was not worth it. Why do fish not hold a place in my heart? Do I have a compassionate preference for mammals over birds and fish? Maybe.</div><div><br /></div><div>I thought giving in that once would put the end to it, but then this morning I woke up with the craving for Chic-Fil-a breakfast sandwiches. What's wrong with me? I think Chic-Fil-a needs to market their spices so I can fry some tofu or seitan and be done with it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today was a whirlwind of vegan doubt, and my mind was blank for why I was doing this, could I really do this forever? .. AND THEN...</div><div><br /></div><div>I checked the mail! I opened my blood lab work results and was completely shocked! All of my levels are now NORMAL! OMG! I know this doesn't mean much to you who are reading this right now. But to me it means the world. It means the chance to have children naturally with no need for drugs. It means my diet really has cured my PCOS. A year ago my levels were all over the place and out of all the normal limits. And today I know why I am doing what I am doing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today I have new meaning behind my commitment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yeah!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_f1tM_EhEnNfy-Oev8gTWqZT6rn_SSAPlX50mD2kqhrpO8MWUa17glTUMiwbU3w9Flml1nG00xTOGN-INavw01unC_W4NBLh13vFTOPcigPFa2Paw9dXKGbcFpeg103OznelAKLCxrEm/s320/Photo-84.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414196114302581826" style="text-align: center;float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-63336003864169882052009-12-10T08:56:00.003-06:002009-12-10T09:12:08.809-06:00thoughts on travelingThey say you only live once, but how do you balance life enjoyment with life responsibilities?<div><br /></div><div>I LOVE to travel, but really have not experienced much. When I have the money I don't have the time and when I have the time I don't have the money. Isn't that how it always is?</div><div><br /></div><div>Matt and I want to do alot of traveling before we have kids, but I really don't know how to make it happen. First off, I can't even take a day off at my job without having to work overtime the day before or after to keep up. I can't imagine ever taking a week off... And we've always had to work around Matt's semester schedule.. I had this problem at my last job as well when I tried to schedule my honeymoon in the winter between semesters but my job would not allow it. So instead Matt failed his classes that semester we got married.. Its just really impossible to take a week and a half off in studio courses. We loved our honeymoon and it was so worth it. But even then we didn't pay for that trip..so how do you save up?</div><div><br /></div><div>We want to go 1) skiing in Colorado 2) to London 3) Canada 4) I want to go somewhere in the Carribean 5) Italy 6) actually pretty much all of Europe</div><div><br /></div><div>I started a Savings account with SmartyPig.com (which is how we saved for our house) and set it to save $25/month (LOL), but with the thought that I would add to it whenever we have extra cash. I guess we haven't had any. </div><div><br /></div><div>So now Matt is graduating and I have always wanted to reward him with us going to Europe or at least on a ski trip. There is just no way. Unless something changes our budget will always be tight, my job will always be too stressful to take time off, and I feel like we should pay off loans before we start saving up for unnecessary vacations. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thinking back to "vacationers"--isn't the typical traveler the older, retired couple or the young singles? Did we miss our time? For how long and how much do you have to sacrifice and juggle around just to enjoy 1 week in your life? </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-82129528939830626042009-12-07T08:49:00.004-06:002009-12-07T09:01:18.370-06:00Cruelty-Free Hair Care<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqipiAkrBQtHfMTGfTZAxZSWacAdBThIz51hN0ZWPXHgmkAqx2noekfRWWT436xHZiw0HsoKtES7r1c_WhmsOX9KsPXgvNXMFwEuMCPNEdIXNKELCWb9_PuC7-XAs_CSLdCTrDUChuvy9/s1600-h/Photo+83.jpg"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOumMKQ4HfRbdyvrLxBpOtfhuZydV3IklCkNHk8a3WUG2fl3L_uUi1jyp0py0xSyBCNh1obIqcW3dnMQID7IwBAPcyz0ipEIjPH69LIDbdYK2VKQLzRWRtVor0rJ518_E17Oo3f7oCAS6-/s1600-h/everpure.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 249px; height: 184px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOumMKQ4HfRbdyvrLxBpOtfhuZydV3IklCkNHk8a3WUG2fl3L_uUi1jyp0py0xSyBCNh1obIqcW3dnMQID7IwBAPcyz0ipEIjPH69LIDbdYK2VKQLzRWRtVor0rJ518_E17Oo3f7oCAS6-/s400/everpure.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412506751088130802" /></a>Loreal now has a new line of hair care products that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. <div><br /></div><div>Yesterday, I purchased the Smooth Shampoo, Smooth Conditioner and the small tub that is a deep conditioning mask.</div><div><br /></div><div>They are amazing!</div><div><br /></div><div>The shampoo was incredibly frothy and foamed up more than every shampoo I own. The deep conditioner made my hair soft and silky. Finally, hair care that does what it is supposed to! This was a real exciting find. </div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqipiAkrBQtHfMTGfTZAxZSWacAdBThIz51hN0ZWPXHgmkAqx2noekfRWWT436xHZiw0HsoKtES7r1c_WhmsOX9KsPXgvNXMFwEuMCPNEdIXNKELCWb9_PuC7-XAs_CSLdCTrDUChuvy9/s200/Photo+83.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412509169250030962" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px; " /></span><div>So here is the delimma. I started researching Loreal and they do animal testing in almost all their other lines of product. So by purchasing the EverPure line I am indirectly contributing to the testing of animals. OR should I think of it as by purchasing these products I am proving to Loreal that there is a market for cruelty-free, vegan products. Hopefully they will make the switch in more of their product lines.</div><div><br /></div><div>My hair feels so good!</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-5424253693629417022009-12-06T13:28:00.005-06:002009-12-06T14:00:06.418-06:00Next Phase- Products<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrhGVhsJzd0Vr4FNOFNyxC3HNLsNE5_w2svvpHtGz3elnmk5dc4mKAjiM8EN_84TQaABizMBcowSiwJysiLbtbk0UelcVJp2SEGbiRklalS3NxjiMfMNRTMCmgbY3dWsOzqxOj94EIUNj/s1600-h/487002ff2ffdc.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrhGVhsJzd0Vr4FNOFNyxC3HNLsNE5_w2svvpHtGz3elnmk5dc4mKAjiM8EN_84TQaABizMBcowSiwJysiLbtbk0UelcVJp2SEGbiRklalS3NxjiMfMNRTMCmgbY3dWsOzqxOj94EIUNj/s400/487002ff2ffdc.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412207368627671650" /></a>According to Wikipedia (my reference for everything) the definition of a Vegan is=<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16px; line-height: normal;">"</span><b>Veganism</b> is a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diet" title="Diet" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">diet</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lifestyle" title="Lifestyle" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">lifestyle</a> that seeks to exclude the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose.<sup id="cite_ref-veganukmission_0-0" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-veganukmission-0" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>1<span>]</span></a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-being-vegan_1-0" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-being-vegan-1" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>2<span>]</span></a></sup> <b>Vegans</b> endeavor not to use or consume <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_product" title="Animal product" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">animal products</a> of any kind.<sup id="cite_ref-foodcriteria_2-0" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-foodcriteria-2" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>3<span>]</span></a></sup> The most common reasons for becoming a vegan are ethical commitment or moral conviction concerning <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_rights" title="Animal rights" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">animal rights</a> or<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_welfare" title="Animal welfare" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">welfare</a>, the environment, human health, and spiritual or religious concerns.<sup id="cite_ref-being-vegan_1-1" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-being-vegan-1" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>2<span>]</span></a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-Timepoll_3-0" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-Timepoll-3" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>4<span>]</span></a></sup><sup id="cite_ref-Food_Standards_Agency_4-0" class="reference" style="line-height: 1em; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; "><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veganism#cite_note-Food_Standards_Agency-4" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; white-space: nowrap; background-position: initial initial; "><span>[</span>5<span>]</span></a></sup> Of particular concern to many vegans are the practices involved in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Factory_farming" title="Factory farming" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">factory farming</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal_testing" title="Animal testing" style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(0, 43, 184); background-image: none; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; background-position: initial initial; ">animal testing</a>, and the intensive use of land and other resources for animal farming."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I feel pretty comfortable now with the diet aspect. I have finally got the balance down of eating carbs-protein-fruits-veggies. Real quickly I discovered how easy it was to eat just yummy carb snacks. The whole point is to be healthy though, so I've really focused on getting enough fruits and veggies, and take my vitamins. Why are they so BIG! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I feel ready now to take on the next challenge of purging out all PRODUCTS that contribute to animal suffering or contain toxins. After seeing the video "Earthlings" it is undeniable that the clothing and beauty industries greatly attribute to animal suffering. And why be a part of it if you don't have to be?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Here is a list of the items I want to find a replacement for:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Yarn-</span> no wool or silk, choose cotton, bamboo, hemp, soy silk, banana silk</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Soap</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Shampoo/Conditioner- <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">try </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; ">Alba, Giovanni, 365, Jason</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 19px;">• Face Wash- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: '-webkit-sans-serif'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Origins</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Moisturizer- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">try Kiss my Face, Origins</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Foundation- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">I've used the same foundation for the last 13 years, so this will be a tough one.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Chapstick-<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> try </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Alba</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• mascara- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">try Beauty without Cruelty or Lush</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• eye liner- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">try Arbonne or Origins</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• sunscreen- <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">try Arbonne or Origins</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• deodorant- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">365</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Clothing</span>- I actually don't own any leather clothes and only itchy wool sweater that I will just donate.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">• Shoes</span>- This is a tough one.. I went shoe shopping awhile back and could not find what the shoes are made of. There is no "ingredient list" and I keep thinking it could be really good pleather, or some kind of plastic, or maybe it is leather.. I don't know. So I haven't bought a new pair of shoes in 6 months and it is time to figure this out. I'm in desperate need of some black low heels for work. I may just order these online from a vegan site just to be sure.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I already switched my toothpaste to Toms and I finally found a flavor I like. I am probably going to focus on a few products at a time so I don't spend too much money at one time. Let me know if you have any vegan products that you love. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">These are a few brands I want to try: Whole Foods brand, Kiss my Face, Beauty without Cruelty, Jason shampoos, Avalon, Alba, Giovanni shampoos, Lush makeup, Origins, Arbonne makeup. Walmart carries a few brands as well as Kroger, Whole Foods, Central Market, and Sprouts.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I hope to meet this goal by the end of the next 6 months. That seems doable to me. It will be fun trying new stuff! These are the kind of things I don't usually let myself spend alot of money on so it will be interesting balancing frugality with quality. I hope that I will find some great substitutes and maybe even some better ones! I'll make sure to share my faves.</span></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-74142264923568116032009-12-02T22:11:00.003-06:002009-12-02T22:54:50.889-06:00The DetailsHalf a year! I've been on a vegan diet for half a year. Woohoo! <div><br /></div><div>It's so 2nd nature to me that I don't have to worry or think about it much now. I have pretty much perfected avoiding animal products in food. And then today, I fell into a non vegan situation. I was cooking my lunchtime soup in the kitchen with my coworker when I noticed that this particular soup had egg in the pasta. Normally, I would have just thrown it out and gone to get something else.. but I haven't admitted my veganism to my coworkers, so I had no reason to do so.. I was trapped. So here I am holding this bowl of soup and getting grossed out at the thought of chicken reproductive products in my soup.... and I went back to my desk and ate around the pasta in the soup. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not going to beat myself up about it, but I need to come clean at work, for my own sake. And I hope it will be soon.. but then I think is it really worth it? It's such a personal decision in my life I don't feel like being confronted about it when I can't argue back. </div><div><br /></div><div>So its the details that get me, every time. Like the Morning Star Farms corny dogs that I thought for sure were vegan and blogged about them. How embarrassing! And then I missed the note about eggs in the Quorn brand mock meats too. And there was that time that I had jello, another time I had honey, and probably some times when I thought for sure it was vegan and it wasn't. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's not about being perfect. It's about filtering out the unnecessary suffering, the unhealthy, and the disease causing waste in my life. I'm also trying to avoid high fructose corn syrup, aspartame, caffeine, and other toxins.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, I do feel that once you make allowances for yourself then those allowances start to grow and take over. Isn't that how all diets fail? So perfection is what I strive for but the ultimate goal is to do the best I can to be healthy, to be cruelty-free, and to be good about every decision I make in life. If that is my goal and Im doing my best then I am happy with myself. </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-72863924122018878152009-11-30T17:32:00.008-06:002009-11-30T19:57:51.130-06:00Surviving Thanksgiving<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnp-9HCk2TLTR11vXtTkyuvYrhlGrqaW8sLu2kbWaQ_vHJQucbj-1DCFgO75n8k0JNHGasY2xjb8yty1yBfmDC3RwmFw9jgAQKKlktaFAYbNFyqxtoJ2-2_4IrjN-CxFAaMgG-RoGk0XxW/s1600/11.30.09spencer.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnp-9HCk2TLTR11vXtTkyuvYrhlGrqaW8sLu2kbWaQ_vHJQucbj-1DCFgO75n8k0JNHGasY2xjb8yty1yBfmDC3RwmFw9jgAQKKlktaFAYbNFyqxtoJ2-2_4IrjN-CxFAaMgG-RoGk0XxW/s400/11.30.09spencer.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410079110528424242" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW45bSknRn5Z9YA8wgylDBJREq7vtMZ7D0BZD9nYOm_L4EfdPqell0opal50Z1ynHfBeQR5Zm8LZisEcshX4LWlv4OKgiCPcImuPXL3M2jGHgd0rEKVGz1iJo_dinKEhyxRTjK7L9-mIbJ/s1600/11.30.09italian.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW45bSknRn5Z9YA8wgylDBJREq7vtMZ7D0BZD9nYOm_L4EfdPqell0opal50Z1ynHfBeQR5Zm8LZisEcshX4LWlv4OKgiCPcImuPXL3M2jGHgd0rEKVGz1iJo_dinKEhyxRTjK7L9-mIbJ/s400/11.30.09italian.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410078998889074914" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1nBN59K0lw8yhC4CI23PI6cNkJyMP5vJiKkHt-2NGAw_5XjOKGacBh_mgfc1zjwDDqw3KQKp_-tmhKMZz4fUbpy9uCYyGwiTAwYznkISxZFrMDEYjDBydJjJ6E3mLqmrUYcO1qWVS-2B/s1600/11.30.09tablespread.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1nBN59K0lw8yhC4CI23PI6cNkJyMP5vJiKkHt-2NGAw_5XjOKGacBh_mgfc1zjwDDqw3KQKp_-tmhKMZz4fUbpy9uCYyGwiTAwYznkISxZFrMDEYjDBydJjJ6E3mLqmrUYcO1qWVS-2B/s400/11.30.09tablespread.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410077799352550546" /></a><div><br /></div>Yeah! I made it through Thanksgiving without seeing any dead Turkeys on the table. <div><br /></div><div>We had 3 consecutive Thanksgiving lunches, 1 for each family. The first Thanksgiving was at Matt's grandparents' and we did a Mexican theme. Mostly because its just too much work to do the traditional food and travel with it to their house. This Thanksgiving meal was one of the sad ones. Matt's grandfather is getting older and has Alzheimer's and may be going to a home soon. It was great bonding time though and Matt had an amazing breakthrough with his grandpa. Grandpa Curly said to Matt "I like what you're doing with your life. Let er' rip!" What an amazing moment it was and I'm so glad we were there for Matt to experience it. </div><div><br /></div><div>So for the Mexican feast I cooked Black Bean enchiladas with green chili sauce. They were the best ever. I used black beans, refried beans, onions, red peppers, and garlic. Matt's mom made Vegan chili!!! OMG how awesome! Oh and Vegan Brownies. I felt so spoiled. </div><div><br /></div><div>2nd Thanksgiving lunch was easy. We met my parents, brothers, and grandparents for lunch at Olive Garden. I had the Spaghetti Pomodoro. I think I have actually figured out how to make it better than the restaurant. It's all about using fresh herbs and the best olive oil. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>3rd Thanksgiving was at my house with my dad's side of the family. We did an Italian themed potluck style family meal. It was beautiful. Matt and I were way behind on getting everything ready so my parents and brother stepped in and we all were cooking Hell's Kitchen-style (minus the yelling). We made Spaghetti and homemade pizzas. I made a cheese-less pizza with olives, red onions, mushrooms & red peppers. </div><div><br /></div><div>So all that and I only had 1 emotional break down. I was at Kroger trying to buy meatballs for everyone else to eat with the Spaghetti. I was standing there with all the different varieties of ground up cow meat and I was about to reach and grab a package and got instantly repulsed. I got hot and dizzy and had to run off to an aisle to hide in as my eyes filled with tears. I never thought I'd be at this place in my life. I never ever expected to feel this connection and anguish over animals I've never seen. I never knew what I did not know.. and ignorance is bliss. or is it?</div><div><br /></div><div>I feel good about my commitment, but moreover this change is something I can't undo. This Thanksgiving showed me that I am so blessed to be loved and respected in all my families, even if I am eating something different from everyone else.</div><div><br /></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-24619611650243950862009-11-09T13:46:00.003-06:002009-11-09T13:51:09.191-06:00Another Baby hat<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxIQxBK9WIfteR-GxP83SjP96Ac7LSbXyv3aiwfH3FCssC9Qwu3gyVjqZLKB2PvcqzU0XHCpcwCyjDNZT7ORW8hx18u7yTVgga6ZERHxpIgfF3JwZJ0tQmYe2_yBMJA0TMiEpB03dQtF2/s1600-h/Photo+88.jpg"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxIQxBK9WIfteR-GxP83SjP96Ac7LSbXyv3aiwfH3FCssC9Qwu3gyVjqZLKB2PvcqzU0XHCpcwCyjDNZT7ORW8hx18u7yTVgga6ZERHxpIgfF3JwZJ0tQmYe2_yBMJA0TMiEpB03dQtF2/s400/Photo+88.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402192950836526274" /></a><br />Here is a baby hat I worked on last week for my friend Cristina. I think it needs something, maybe a flower or butterfly. I tried making little eyelets, but it looks kind of messy. The darker pink isn't as soft as I'd like for a baby hat, so I may add a silky lining. <div><br /></div><div>I've already started another baby hat for my friend Deepa. Hopefully it will turn out cute.<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-52441233290657370412009-11-08T13:50:00.003-06:002009-11-08T14:07:18.728-06:00I'll pass on the PCOSA year ago a doctor finally diagnosed me with PCOS. <div><br /></div><div>At that time I had quit the pill and gone 6 months without a period, (and no migraines). It was such a relief to finally have a name to what was going on and to have answers to symptoms I had dealt with as a teenager too. When I was 17-19, about every other month I would have sudden piercing pain on my lower right side below my belly button.. I would vomit for a full day, hyperventilating and not be able to leave the bathroom. After SEVERAL tests, drinking Barium and such, my gyno at the time had told me that I had cysts that were rupturing and it was completely normal in runners. His answer was to put me on the pill. Migraines begin.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward to last year, a new gyno verifies that what I have is called PCOS and that I do have cysts, lots of them. Her answer is to put me on the pill. Migraines begin again.</div><div><br /></div><div>6 months ago I took myself off the pill again. Ironically it was about 6 months ago that I also began my vegan diet. This time I feel so much better.. I have a normal cycle, no vomiting & a decrease in migraine strength. </div><div><br /></div><div>So the other day I'm telling my mom that I think I cured my PCOS and she's like "Ya, it says online that PCOS sufferers should avoid eating beef & cheese, and increase eating fruits & vegetables, etc." Like DUH! Did I instinctually know this?</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, feeling good.. but going to schedule a checkup to make sure I'm cysts free. What a miracle this would be.</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-71592792522435521932009-10-23T09:44:00.007-05:002009-10-23T10:28:59.742-05:00The Seed of KnowledgeI've been doing alot of self-reflection and even overcame a vegan breakdown. <div><br /></div><div>I was dealing with a very stressful week and the resignation of my favorite co-worker and the need for "comfort food" hit hard. My mind frantically could not think of anything vegan I could eat that would fix the distress I was in. As soon as the thought of just breaking down and eating a Chic-Fil-A sandwich popped into my mind, I called Matt and told him what I was contemplating. Any my meat-eating, bar-b-q-ing husband listened, and encouraged me to stick to my decision and reminded me how much I would regret that break down. And it worked! I immediately drove somewhere else, ate a healthy lunch, and returned to work a little less stressed after communicating with Matt all of my frustrations.. In fact, I'm sure I felt less stressed than if I had used food for comfort. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm deeply embarrassed to even admit that I had that struggle because for the most part I have had deep resolve to stay with this vegan lifestyle. But, I do think its important to share my weaknesses and my struggles. I feel stronger now for overcoming that moment.</div><div><br /></div><div>And so I've done alot of looking back at what brought me to today, to this positive change. Why am I doing this? What truths can I hold onto for future support? What seed was planted that truly encouraged this growth?</div><div><br /></div><div>I've known a handful of vegetarians and vegans throughout my life, but I never truly understood why they were doing it. I heard there reasoning, but it never really sunk in. Or I never let it sink in. I'm sure I was very closed to hearing the truth. So looking back there is 1 defining moment that opened the door. The moment that started this growth was when I first saw the "Meet your Meat" video by Peta. I could barely watch it and was truly disgusted. I remember I didn't eat meat for about 3 days and I cut back on eating pork drastically. Through that video I felt intense compassion for the suffering of the baby piglets.. They undergo castration with no pain medication. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">(Men literally pull their testicles off) It's disgusting, and with their peachy skin and chubby legs, it's very difficult not to make the connection with human babies. No doubt it has got to be excrutiating pain</span></div><div><br /></div><div>That was about a year ago. And I was able to push back everything I had seen until I read the "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Skinny Bitch"</span> book. I think now, that hearing a logical and healthy reason to quit eating meat was just that extra reason I needed to make such a huge change.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think it's important to share this information. I had to let it sink in that ALL animals have the ability to FEEL PAIN. I also know now that the footage does not just reflect one time offenses, but is the EVERYDAY process that these large factories use. (Even the "free-range" & "organic" varieties) It's tough to watch and I still have to take breaks while watching it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Beyond the suffering standpoint, I think its disgusting that these sick and often dead animals are still processed for eating. No wonder we have recalls and diseases spread from eating animals, meat essentially is the dead carcasses of sick animals. Because of the destructive environment these animals grow up in they are treated with large doses of antibiotics to try to keep them from getting too sick and we then consume those same antibiotics, toxins, pesticides, etc.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">(Recommend watching this alone at home)</span></div><div>Meet your Meat Video:</div><div><a href="http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2273569508770398194#">http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2273569508770398194#</a><br /></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-44946482202523969592009-10-11T18:19:00.004-05:002009-10-11T18:36:34.033-05:00Health Goal for the Week- Get Well!A week and a half ago I posted my first nutritional goal - EAT 2 FRUITS a day. I was doing pretty good with the goal until I got sick.<div><br /></div><div>And Sickness decided to stay with me for a week and we're still discussing Sickness's departure. "Go Away!", I say. Yesterday Matt woke me up (11am) with Breakfast in Bed. It was a fun breakfast for a sick vegan girl. (Glass of water, glass of soy chocolate milk, glass of Emergen-C vitamin drink, fruit plate with sliced bananas, apples, and green grapes & a whole wheat bagel) </div><div>I ate everything! And then I went back to sleep till 2pm. </div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I am overwhelmed. I have been making myself get up and work for as long as I can. And then I'll have spurts where I feel like I'm finally well and I'll give in to Spencer dog's plea to go out for a walk. I just walked him around the block and Im back to coughing again. </div><div><br /></div><div>I really can't afford to be sick another week. I've been coughing all through the night and Matt is sleeping on the couch. I've been behind at work.. and don't even ask about laundry. All this, while Matt is in his hardest and last semester of college. Days away from his art installation at the Dallas Museum of Art. I need to get well!</div><div><br /></div><div>So my goal for this week is TO GET WELL. Eat oranges, drink more Emergen-C, take some Echinacea, drink more water, don't exercise, sleep alot.</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-42562697782343047002009-10-06T22:16:00.003-05:002009-10-06T22:42:20.989-05:00meat or not to meatHonestly, I've been struggling lately. Not with physically wanting to eat meat, but just with being different.. It is mentally hard to hold this stance. My mind wants to go back to the easy days where I could enjoy the same meal as my husband, or go to any restaurant with my family, or just enjoy the simplicity of being 'normal'. <div><br /></div><div>Convenience, simplicity, ease of mind. <div><br /></div><div>I can feel the disgust fading some, and it is easier to not think about meat in that way. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have heard vegans use slavery and the holocaust as a metaphor for the plight of these animals, and that has really stayed with me. I try to remember the scope & reality of what I am up against. And this is what grounds me. The massive number of animals that are enslaved from birth to live a cruelly short & painful life. The reality is too painful to think about, too painful to remember. </div><div><br /></div><div>I didn't begin my vegan journey for the rights of these animals. I thought I could shed a few pounds and was disgusted with the pesticide & toxic levels of animal products. I thought I could probably avoid meat & dairy forever just knowing how "infected" it might be. But those reasons have not held me steady. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is the knowledge of the suffering that holds me committed. The image of a scared calf being pulled by his tail from the veal crate. How is he any different than my dog? </div><div><br /></div><div>We think it is so crazy that people in China often eat cats and dogs. Does a cow, chicken or pig not feel pain? Do they not suffer?</div><div><br /></div><div>It is with a heavy heart that I realize that I have opened the door to the truth and I am stuck with that knowledge. And not just the knowledge of the suffering of farm animals. I have opened the door to compassion and the desire to know what is going on in the world. And the truth is overwhelmingly depressing.</div></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-91031206603241658682009-10-04T15:01:00.004-05:002009-10-04T16:11:24.867-05:00Coupons Work!Yeah! I'm so excited! I finally figured out the whole coupon thing for buying groceries. I just saved $19.73 and ended with just a $50 grocery bill for the week. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">(This coming from the girl that has rung up $150 bills quite frequently.)</span><div><br /></div><div>I researched on www.moneysavingmom.com and www.frugaldad.com and some other sites I have already forgotten. Here is what I found & learned:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">1. You can load digital coupons onto your grocery shopping car</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">d!</span> </div><div>(ie Kroger, Tom Thumb, etc) - I used <a href="http://www.cellfire.com/">Cellfire</a> and <a href="http://shortcuts.com/home">Shortcuts</a>. Cellfire even has an iphone app that makes it easy to load digital coupons while you're in the store. I love this because I can't lose them. Even better, these digital coupons currently work in conjunction with physical coupons. That means you can end up getting some items for free. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">2. Cut/Grab/Share/Print all the Coupons you can use- </span></div><div>Once I started looking I noticed coupons everywhere. The gas station had a stack of old newspapers and they let me take the coupon inserts for free. I think I may be able to convince some friends to start a coupon swap with me. And of course there are tons online to print as well... I'm just a little wary of overusing ink/paper.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">3. Use a binder to organize them- </span></div><div><a href="http://laurawilliamsmusings.blogspot.com/2007/07/lauras-couponing-and-refunding-hints.html">INSTRUCTIONS HERE</a></div><div>This method works really well. I made mine in under and hour. Use baseball card collector size inserts for the coupons and dividers for each category. This will allow you to quickly flip through and find the type of coupon you need. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">4. Strategize-</span></div><div>So I read that the trick to really saving alot is to time using the manufactured coupon while your store is having a sale. www.moneysavingmom.com is awesome for spelling out the best deals and how to get them. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are 2 of the deals I got that seemed good to me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Pillsbury Crescent Rolls</div><div>Kroger sale 3 for $5 makes them $1.67 each</div><div>Minus 50¢ coupon that got doubled </div><div>= $1.33 each when they are normally $2.28</div><div><br /></div><div>Birds Eye Steam Fresh frozen veggies</div><div>$1.89 - .39 Kroger Sale</div><div>- $1 Coupon</div><div>= 50¢ for the bag</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">5. Stock up when the price is right-</span></div><div>I've been using a grocery app on my iphone called Grocery Gadget. It has truly changed my life. I keep track of what items cost at each store so I know where to stock up on spaghetti sauce (Costco) where to buy the best and cheapest produce (Kroger) and which stores have the best Vegan products (Whole Foods). Matt and I can even shop at the same time at 2 different stores and just move an item to the other person's list if we see it is cheaper there. I love the digital life! I don't even have to ask what he needs from the store because he adds it to the list on his own. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am actually upset with Costco right now bc I could not find the Prego Spaghetti sauces. They usually have 2 very large Prego spaghetti sauce bottles for $4.64. We can get about 6 servings per bottle. I checked Kroger and a bottle half that size cost around $3.50. So I guess I'll have to wait till I have a coupon. (Prego is 1 of those accidentally vegan foods, thank God too!)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">6. Don't stray from the plan-</span></div><div>I am so guilty of just throwing random things into my cart. If I don't make a meal plan then I end up with half the ingredients needed for about 12 different recipes. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">7. Contact favorite brands-</span></div><div>Being vegan it is difficult to find alot of discounts for vegan food items. So for these, I will need to really hunt them down. I'm going to go through the same channels first- websites, veggie blogs, veggie magazines... then when all else fails I am going to contact them to ask for coupons.</div><div>(Uncle Eddie's cookies, Galaxy Foods- soy cheeses, Earth Balance- butter, etc)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">8. My thoughts on Bulk buying-</span></div><div>I've really had mixed feelings about bulk buying at Costco & other warehouse clubs. But now that I have been comparing items down to the per ounce cost, it really is cheaper. But I think these tips can help really get your money's worth. </div><div>• Share the membership- My mom & grandma share a membership cutting the yearly cost in half. </div><div>• For non-perishables- wait till you have a coupon</div><div>• Stick to a list (a small list) of items you are positive that you will actually use. </div><div>• Avoid the gimmicks, junk food, frozen appetizers & special offers.</div><div>• Don't go down the middle aisles (clothing, etc) unless there is a specific item on your list.</div><div>• Make sure they have items you will use on a regular basis before you join.. I go every month to stock up, so I feel it is money well spent, or at least better spent than my gym membership.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-65939513397789288102009-09-30T11:43:00.004-05:002009-09-30T11:57:10.246-05:00Health Goal Of the Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWnk716cS3u2iLP3LFjJp7eaNLWVr8FB_Avu6G-NHwYWC481IZW-sfUdZztgtcZsv5EN_9MoQ7N6TdIzadIDSFqk2DkPSQXonkiZeYJGW50LvgIjqeTCCcTfBvZUuYU_XxE8_nakX-Pqx/s1600-h/pomegranate.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 178px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWnk716cS3u2iLP3LFjJp7eaNLWVr8FB_Avu6G-NHwYWC481IZW-sfUdZztgtcZsv5EN_9MoQ7N6TdIzadIDSFqk2DkPSQXonkiZeYJGW50LvgIjqeTCCcTfBvZUuYU_XxE8_nakX-Pqx/s200/pomegranate.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387304804430707074" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>I decided I am going to aim for adding a new positive health habit per week. I have to admit I am completely influenced by the book "Small Changes, Big Results." For the most part I feel like I know what I need to do to be healthier, but struggle to make a habit of it. <div><br /></div><div>Week 1:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Eat 2 Fruits every Day!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; "> It's already Wednesday, so I guess this week will be easier. ;-)</span><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div>PS. This is the season to buy pomegranates. You can freeze the seeds for easy on the go snacks. They are tough to open, but worth it to eat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pointless or not, I'm bloggin away!</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-64866803188256257482009-09-29T20:36:00.002-05:002009-09-29T20:42:21.952-05:00BloglessI'm currently feeling like having a blog is kind of pointless. I don't really have a clear purpose, my posts are more random tidbits from my daily life and frustrations. <div><br /></div><div>Is it worth writing? How do I benefit besides having some time for forced self-reflection. </div><div><br /></div><div>Better yet is it worth reading? Is it entertaining, educational, or inspiring in any way?</div><div><br /></div><div>Let me know. I could use the encouragement today.. or if you have some advice I'd love to hear it too. Or maybe just an anonymous comment of "Hey I read your blog sometimes, don't stop" or if you feel inspired leave an anonymous comment saying "Hey these posts are boring, you should write more about.. X" </div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2039068959358770935.post-24368635212952567572009-09-28T13:58:00.004-05:002009-09-28T14:21:08.408-05:00Product Recommendation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFQ7IBSywbl69CTCYVrdX7_dDq_fdPaj4-Ww_P4cvstJFKVyp0snkO1zICLyl0mfEqzm9l_jgOO9VCwkowmy_kLONv-MAvWAUDhPUjxLGTGT-BK-7PMtPnvj8gfU4s74KqBWCuqNSS62j/s1600-h/0095330_PE233878_S3.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFQ7IBSywbl69CTCYVrdX7_dDq_fdPaj4-Ww_P4cvstJFKVyp0snkO1zICLyl0mfEqzm9l_jgOO9VCwkowmy_kLONv-MAvWAUDhPUjxLGTGT-BK-7PMtPnvj8gfU4s74KqBWCuqNSS62j/s400/0095330_PE233878_S3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386594987192921330" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">IKEA Food Storage Set $4.99</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">aka. tupperware</span><br /><div><br /></div>http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60149673</div><div><br /></div><div>It's not everyday that you hear someone raving about food storage. I bought this little set the other day on a whim and I am so IMPRESSED!</div><div><br /></div><div>At first I thought man these guys are small, but now I fully realize the genius of it. Let the raves begin..<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#1 Portion control!</span> These are perfectly sized for single-servings and really help with controlling how much you eat in one sitting. There also some larger ones for keeping huge quantities in. (a 1/2 pot of stew)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#2 Less air-less spoilage</span>- You really want to aim for filling your containers as full as possible to minimize the amount of air in the container. With the smaller sizes even my guacamole is staying fresh!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#3 Stackable- </span>The sizes also stack really well and fit into the bigger containers so you don't have a tupperware panic attack.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#4 Clean & Fresh-</span> For some reason the green lid makes me feel like I am eating healthy. I know its just trick psychology but I think it motivates me and keeps me focused on my health goals. The plastic has also remained incredibly clear even with the Spaghetti sauce test. Cloudy, stained plastic just isn't appetizing. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#5 * Safe</span>- According to the icons on the back of the containers; they are dish washer-safe, microwave-safe, and (SNOWFLAKE) safe.. which I assume means freezer-safe. ;-)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">#6 Profitable-</span> I bet I could have an old-school tupperware party and sell the set for $9.99!</span></div><div><br /></div><div>I currently have 6 containers in use. • 1 of the horizontal large ones is holding stew leftovers • the other large one is holding pasta • 2 horizontal small ones are holding single guacamole servings • the smallest one is holding 1 serving of baked beans • the medium container is holding some mixed nuts for on-the-go. These sizes are brilliant!</div>Leeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18034406529246562727noreply@blogger.com1