tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23897974306754808212024-03-14T02:23:49.880-06:00Her Inner ShineA blog about life, food, fitness and that inner shine.Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-5546118085618657092011-03-31T17:01:00.001-06:002011-03-31T17:01:41.848-06:00Update<p>For those who much have my blog in their google reader I wanted to send you a quick update.</p> <p>I have decided to start a lifestyle blog and to start fresh I not only changed my name but changed from blogger to wordpress.</p> <p>My new blog is called, <a href="http://sunglassesandpedicures.wordpress.com/">Sunglasses and Pedicures</a> and can be found at:</p> <p><a href="http://sunglassesandpedicures.wordpress.com/">http://sunglassesandpedicures.wordpress.com/</a></p> <p>Please update your readers.</p> <p>Thanks for all your support and comments over the past year. I hope you’ll continue to follow me on this new journey.</p> <p>Thanks again for everything.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-74246344634974226862011-01-12T19:56:00.001-07:002011-01-12T19:56:07.964-07:00Brrrr…<p>Is it ever cold in Calgary right now! Am I ever glad I bought that super cute <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/keeping-warm.html">hat</a> the other day. When it’s –32 with the wind chill it is not fun to be outside!</p> <p>Yesterday started out simple: 1/2 a whole wheat English muffin with peanut butter, granola and a glass of orange juice.</p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5pvIuYpqI/AAAAAAAADkg/WSpES704rCE/s1600-h/January%20002%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 002" border="0" alt="January 002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5pvn4Vx7I/AAAAAAAADkk/e8kATFWAcnY/January%20002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> <p>I know my breakfast’s haven’t been very interesting lately. I’m usually in a rush when I’m teaching and I just make something simple and easy for breakfast.</p> <p>I spent the day teaching grade 8’s yesterday. The day actually went pretty well. The kids were great, I had a great lesson plan to follow and the day went by quickly. All, in all I really can’t complain.</p> <p>My morning snack was a small banana.</p> <p>Lunch was the last of my leftover pasta. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5pwLtnuXI/AAAAAAAADko/A1G9RRGhXsI/s1600-h/January%20043%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 043" border="0" alt="January 043" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5pw4VfliI/AAAAAAAADks/UclB-FncZnI/January%20043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Along with a yogurt cup.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5pxcMBolI/AAAAAAAADkw/kj47mPhMupw/s1600-h/January%20001%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 001" border="0" alt="January 001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TS5px2kGLTI/AAAAAAAADk0/XctV0gWk-kc/January%20001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>And my drive home snack was a Kashi cherry and dark chocolate granola bar.</p> <p>I spent the rest of the afternoon catching up on The Bachelor and <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/snow-day.html">blogging</a> before heading out to pick up Matt from work and heading to the pool for a swim. </p> <p>My pre-gym snack was a tbsp of peanut butter. This seems to have become me go-to pre-gym snack. Quick, easy and full of protein.</p> <p>My swim tonight was a 500 meter swim along with another 200 meters of kick and a 50 meter cool down. This took a total of 30 mins. It was a great swim yesterday and I’m still feeling the effects today.</p> <p>After the swim we wanted something quick, easy and healthy. We opted for subs from Subway.</p> <p>I had a 6’ sub with turkey, lettuce, cucumber, green pepper and cheese on a whole wheat bun.</p> <p>Later in the evening I was having a serious craving for something sweet but I was able to curve it with grapes and a few cheese and crackers.</p> <p>Well, I’m off now to enjoy by night off from the gym by spending some quality time with The Vampire Diaries.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-22798495396093681292011-01-11T16:31:00.001-07:002011-01-11T16:31:29.712-07:00Snow Day<p>So yesterday was a snow day. Yay!</p> <p>I actually didn’t have a subbing job for yesterday but it’s nice to sleep in, relax and not worry that you should be working :)</p> <p>Breakfast yesterday was a bowl of Fiber One Honey Clusters…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoLlEOwUI/AAAAAAAADjg/0I9yZBjIgo4/s1600-h/January%20013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 013" border="0" alt="January 013" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoMdgXReI/AAAAAAAADjk/wGmh70XISDk/January%20013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>In a mug…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoMzs3f3I/AAAAAAAADjo/HEK8AKnfIRw/s1600-h/January%20024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 024" border="0" alt="January 024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoNfJo9MI/AAAAAAAADjs/-e5KDJ0sV4g/January%20024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>With skim milk.</p> <p>And 1/2 a grapefruit…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoNydvWqI/AAAAAAAADjw/EjcY6PvTmAI/s1600-h/January%20018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 018" border="0" alt="January 018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoOZRZJ0I/AAAAAAAADj0/a2fKEgdWzs8/January%20018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>In my winter penguins mug.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoO52-SfI/AAAAAAAADj4/CHjb-pIqoA0/s1600-h/January%20019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 019" border="0" alt="January 019" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoPnGJzMI/AAAAAAAADj8/ezjsgT6hvvc/January%20019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I was all about the mugs yesterday.</p> <p>After breakfast I headed out to run a couple errands. First to the bank and then to Winner’s to pick up a new purse for teaching. It’s totally adorable but I forgot to take a picture of it so I’ll share it with you tomorrow.</p> <p>When I got home it was time for lunch.</p> <p>Leftover pasta was on the menu.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoQEMsyWI/AAAAAAAADkA/43xh--21Ttc/s1600-h/January%20042%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 042" border="0" alt="January 042" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoQydVkvI/AAAAAAAADkE/4JCN8D6M90U/January%20042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Along with a side of veggies. Cucumber and baby tomatoes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoRaFUdGI/AAAAAAAADkI/zW8qzel2jig/s1600-h/January%20041%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 041" border="0" alt="January 041" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoSN6-5xI/AAAAAAAADkM/uJ37_fjZxsg/January%20041_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>After lunch I spend the afternoon <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/keeping-warm.html">blogging</a>, finishing my Pretty Little Liars marathon and relaxing before it was time to pick up the hubby from work.</p> <p>Before heading out to pick him up I had a tbsp of peanut butter to tide me over till dinner.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoSphsPQI/AAAAAAAADkQ/FOUaaHqPALU/s1600-h/January%20004%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 004" border="0" alt="January 004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoTPMpAuI/AAAAAAAADkU/JAg6mUkljTE/January%20004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>(Don’t you love The Bachelor playing in the background).</p> <p>The plan was to pick him up then head to the gym for some cardio. When we got there it was CRAZY busy. Definitely the busiest it’s been since we joined. I did some quick cardio on the elliptical then we busted out of there. </p> <p>Too busy for us!</p> <p>Dinner is the only meal I forgot to take a picture of (I’m getting much better at remembering). </p> <p>Shrimp Stir Fry was on the menu. Shrimp, red peppers, broccoli, baby corn stocks, carrots, onion and rice noodles made up the meal. It was very tasty.</p> <p>My evening snack included grapes and two slices of cheese.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoTidHAZI/AAAAAAAADkY/Od92UZRiyYQ/s1600-h/January%20001%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 001" border="0" alt="January 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSzoUE6oCcI/AAAAAAAADkc/0ohrDR7nATM/January%20001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Overall, it was a good day. I’m feeling better and better about my food choices everyday.</p> <p>I’m off to finish watching The Bachelor and then heading to pick up the husband so we can go for a swim.</p> <p>Later bloggies!</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-19100128127023514612011-01-10T17:25:00.001-07:002011-01-10T17:25:52.159-07:00Keeping Warm<p>So <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/weekend-happenings.html">yesterday</a> I made a list of things I was planning for the day. Things went really well and I got most of the list accomplished.</p> <p>Breakfast yesterday was light – 1/2 a whole wheat English muffin, peanut butter, a sprinkle of granola and 1/2 a glass of oj.</p> <p>I spend the morning reading and relaxing on the couch while waiting for the husband to do a little work. Lunch was a little leftovers from the previous night’s Chinese food. I tried to keep it light and had the last of the won ton soup and 1/2 a cup of fried rice. </p> <p>After lunch Matt and I got started on our to-do list. Since we were running a little late and had a few other places to go that weren’t on our original list we ended up having to skip our plans to hit up the health and fitness show. I was a little disappointed but I did hear since it was the year’s first show it was still a little small. Hopefully, we’ll be able to make it next year.</p> <p>We did manage to first hit up the pool for a 30 min swim. Afterwards, we headed to Starbucks for a tall skinny vanilla latte and a new water bottle.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujeWPCtgI/AAAAAAAADiw/w-rj4YQeS0w/s1600-h/January%20016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 016" border="0" alt="January 016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSuje-ADNTI/AAAAAAAADi0/D_1146bQ_aI/January%20016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>They didn’t have any sippy cups at the one we went to so I got this one instead.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujfXykvqI/AAAAAAAADi4/cDbLboPEKI4/s1600-h/January%20017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 017" border="0" alt="January 017" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujf6nOWBI/AAAAAAAADi8/DGzWMzsF1Ms/January%20017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I think it’s pretty cute.</p> <p>Then it was time to go to Mountain Equipment Co-op to pick up some hats and gloves to keep ourselves warm in this cold Alberta winter. It was –30 with the wind chill yesterday and it’s suppose to stay like this for most of the week.</p> <p> I needed a new hat. What do you think?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujgcyIEkI/AAAAAAAADjA/SBSkYbRQ7V4/s1600-h/January%20038%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 038" border="0" alt="January 038" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujg9hd_oI/AAAAAAAADjE/U8ZLqkFAWRs/January%20038_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Sorry for the crazy eyes. I still haven’t really figured out how to take a picture of myself in the mirror (trust me when I say – this is the best shot I got).</p> <p>We had one last stop at Home Depot then we headed home for dinner.</p> <p>Dinner was some stuffed pasta. Simple and easy. I order to keep the dinner healthy I first pared it with a salad.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujhEzHIlI/AAAAAAAADjI/aU0EVd442gw/s1600-h/January%20006%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 006" border="0" alt="January 006" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujh0aHiKI/AAAAAAAADjM/FrDrQczU5E4/January%20006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>(Arugula, carrots, yellow pepper, cucumber and baby tomatoes)</p> <p>Then I did a great job controlling my portion size. I broke up the meal into 5 servings so I knew how much I’d be eating and I’d have lots of leftovers for the week.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujiX58IeI/AAAAAAAADjQ/P2FDT2DapMU/s1600-h/January%20011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 011" border="0" alt="January 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSuji9LyBSI/AAAAAAAADjU/Q4Os-yHk-kw/January%20011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>It was a great strategy and I was very surprised how full I was even after eating about 1/2 as much as I might normally eat.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujjeLwTeI/AAAAAAAADjY/79k-Iw3Hzu0/s1600-h/January%20009%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 009" border="0" alt="January 009" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSujj0J4NPI/AAAAAAAADjc/uyYVpTIeqIw/January%20009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>My evening snack was a few grapes the the husband and I split while watching a movie on the couch.</p> <p>Well I’m off now to go pick up the husband from work but I’ll be back tomorrow with lots of pictures an and update from today.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-2799730180114493142011-01-09T10:44:00.001-07:002011-01-09T10:44:33.529-07:00Weekend Happenings<p>Sometimes life gets in the way of postings. That’s what happened for the last two days. Friday I should have been able to blog but after work I headed to get my bangs trimmed(I’ll have to post some pictures of my new duo soon) and ended up at the mall until it was time to pick up the hubby. Then yesterday ended up being a relaxing day on the couch and I just didn’t pick up the computer all day.</p> <p>Since I’m still lacking in pictures I’m sure you don’t need a run down of everything I’ve had since my last post I’ll just catch you up from the weekend. </p> <p>Yesterday somehow I fell a little off track. </p> <p>First mistake: skipping breakfast. </p> <p>I had gotten up late then did a little cleaning and relaxing and by the time I realized I was hungry it was 11:30. We decided to make some homemade pizza for lunch. It was great and everything on it was healthy: boneless skinless chicken, turkey bacon, whole wheat crust, onions, mushrooms. But when you end up eating 1/2 the pizza because your starving from the lack of breakfast that’s not such a good thing.</p> <p>We had plans to go to the health and fitness show here in Calgary yesterday afternoon but it was –25 with the wind chill yesterday and we just couldn’t get motivated to get out of the house. We ended up watching a House Hunters/House Hunters International marathon instead. </p> <p>By the time we wanted dinner it was 6. We had planned on heading to the grocery store and get something healthy but our stomachs won and we ordered Chinese food. I had a spring roll, won tons soup, rice and chicken with mixed veggies. I guess it definitely could have been worst but not in the game plan for the week.</p> <p>Even with the indulging yesterday I got up this morning and weighted myself and I know I don’t usually talk about weight on here but I had lost 3 lbs this week. I had gained a little weight over the holidays so it was great to see that number this morning. I guess that all the tracking, working out and all the water I’ve had this week really worked. </p> <p>Today the plan is:</p> <ul> <li>Get back on track with food</li> <li>Hit up the health and fitness show</li> <li>Head to the gym for a swim</li> <li>Grocery Shopping</li> <li>Drink lots of water</li> <li>Pick up a new water bottle since I broke up Starbucks sippy cup the other day.</li></ul> <p>I’ll be back tomorrow to let you know how that went.</p> <p>~ Katie :) </p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-26010098920083814882011-01-05T17:03:00.001-07:002011-01-05T17:03:06.489-07:00Short and Sweet<p>Since I forgot to take pictures yesterday of my food today’s blog post is going to be short and sweet.</p> <p>Yesterday was my first day back subbing for the new year. Since I was still craving my snack from the previous night I had 1/2 a whole wheat English muffin with peanut butter and some powerhouse granola. I also had a glass of orange juice to go along with it. </p> <p>I’m working hard right now to not drink too many calories (I love oj, milk and other forms of juice) but they are really high in calories and sugar plus I really need to work on getting enough water throughout the day. I do have one glass of milk every night with my dinner and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to give that up but if I focus on water in the morning and afternoon I think then that’s pretty good.</p> <p>Anyways, I decided since my breakfast was pretty light but filled with protein and carbs I’d have a glass of oj to get some fruits in as well.</p> <p>Teaching yesterday was pretty standard. Nothing too excited. My morning snack was a Kashi granola bar, lunch was leftover pasta along with a yogurt cup and my snack on the drive home were carrot sticks.</p> <p>After <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/back-to-basics.html">blogging</a> yesterday, I had a small bowl of greek yogurt sprinkled with more granola as my pre-workout snack. Afterwards, I headed to pick up Matt from work so we could head to the gym. </p> <p>Yesterday was our first swimming day. </p> <p>Confession time: Well not really a confession but what most of you might not know about it (not sure if I’ve mentioned it on the blog before or not) but I swam competitively for 8 years. From about 11 to 19. I actually did <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synchronized_swimming">Synchronized Swimming</a> during that time and in 1999 I went to the Canada Winter Games for Synchronized Swimming. I was also a lifeguard and swimming instructor (which is where I met my husband) for 6 years so growing up water was my life. </p> <p>I haven’t been in the water doing any sort of physical activity for years now (I’ve taken my niece and nephew swimming but not swimming lengths or anything like that). I felt great to get back in the water again but I have completely forgotten how hard it is. I thought I’d be able to get in and swim for 20-30 mins no problem. </p> <p>After the first couple of lengths I could feel my arms already getting sore. In total we swam for about 20 mins. It was a great workout and I’m really excited to introduce swimming back into my weekly routine.</p> <p>After swimming I was having serious after swimming hunger - does anyone else ever get this? I was able to convince the hubby to pick up some Thai Express (I had Pad Thai with tofu) for dinner. I was really happy with eating for the past couple of days, we’ve had a great couple of workouts at the gym, I only ate about 1/2 a serving and I still tracked it in My Fitness Pal so I felt comfortable with the decision.</p> <p>The rest of the evening was spend watching The Biggest Loser and then heading to bed early. Swimming wiped me out.</p> <p>I’m off now, must get ready for the gym. Sorry for all the rambling, I guess that wasn’t so short and sweet. I’ll hopefully have some pictures to share tomorrow.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-87332617272801236672011-01-04T16:56:00.001-07:002011-01-04T17:18:55.159-07:00Back to Basics<p>I’ve been back on the healthy bandwagon for three days now and feeling great. </p> <p>Unfortunately, I still haven’t completely got back on the picture taking bandwagon.</p> <p>Yesterday started with some greens, in the form of a green smoothie. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO434xbTpI/AAAAAAAADiQ/fiX-9hJ26-8/s1600-h/January%20027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 027" border="0" alt="January 027" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO44Zmq_DI/AAAAAAAADiU/GhYYPfD56iM/January%20027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>It included: 2 cups of spinach, banana, non-fat milk, flaxmeal, and some greek yogurt for added protein. </p> <p>After breakfast and <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/blogging-why-i-left-and-why-im-back.html">blogging</a> I headed out to run a couple of errands. These included picking up some food for the kitty, picking up a new lock and finally getting some almond milk that I’ve been needing.</p> <p>When I got home I was starving. Lunch was an egg, cheese and a slice of turkey bacon on a whole wheat English muffin with a side of carrot sticks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO44yYOfpI/AAAAAAAADiY/kgie1jVpX1g/s1600-h/January%20029%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 029" border="0" alt="January 029" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO45fjuceI/AAAAAAAADic/k2sjD_dpjPU/January%20029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Along with some H2O.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO457tHPyI/AAAAAAAADig/5eRpJcXTndg/s1600-h/January%20030%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 030" border="0" alt="January 030" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO46fiSqwI/AAAAAAAADik/A-BVmrnxKa0/January%20030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I’ve been doing really well with the water. Yesterday I was able to drink 9 glasses of water throughout the day. SCORE!</p> <p>I spend the rest of the afternoon watching,”Pretty Little Liars”, making some <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/09/powerhouse-day.html">Powerhouse Granola</a> and <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/goals-for-2011.html">blogging</a>.</p> <p>Is anyone else watching that show? I’ve only watching three episodes so far but I’m really enjoying it. I’ve heard it’s a great guilty pleasure and we all should know how much I love my guilty pleasure shows (Vampire Diaries? The Bachelor? Big Brother?).</p> <p>Before heading out to pick up the hubby from work I had a quick snack. Some powerhouse granola sprinkled on some greek yogurt.</p> <p>Once I picked up the hubby we headed to the gym to get our new membership. If you didn’t read <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/goals-for-2011.html">yesterday’s</a> post you might not know that a little while ago, Matt and I cancelled our Goodlife Memberships and we have decided to join a fitness facility with a pool. I can’t believe we decided to do it on Revolution Monday (which is the first Monday in the New Year). </p> <p>It was insane there. We were planning on swimming last night but since there was no lane swim when we were there we hit up the gym instead. I did 20 mins on the elliptical, and 15 mins on the treadmill. It felt really great to sweat again.</p> <p>Did you know that (according to the trainer who signed us) that only 5% of the people who sign up for a gym membership on Revolution Monday continue to go on the regular basis. Most don’t even last 4 months. Crazy, right?</p> <p>After our workout we headed home, shower, changed and made dinner. Dinner was salad (spinach, yellow peppers, cucumber, carrots and baby tomatoes).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO47N1XbWI/AAAAAAAADio/Qz9Ik4FXPWM/s1600-h/January%20032%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="January 032" border="0" alt="January 032" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TSO47m___eI/AAAAAAAADis/2aJrn2U68_k/January%20032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>And pasta with ground chicken (un-pictured). It was totally what I needed after the gym.</p> <p>My evening snack included half a whole wheat English muffin with peanut butter and sprinkled with a little powerhouse granola.</p> <p>Overall it was a great day and I was happy with all of my eats.</p> <p>I’m off now to have a quick snack then go pick up the husband so we can try out this swimming thing.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-75043985912074892912011-01-03T17:10:00.001-07:002011-01-03T17:10:51.133-07:00Goals for 2011<p>So <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/blogging-why-i-left-and-why-im-back.html">as promised</a> I wanted to share some of my goals/plans for 2011. We all know resolutions always fail so lets just call them goals.</p> <p>First I should catch you all up on where I am healthy wise since my blogging break. Overall, things were ok but there was quite a bit indulging over the holidays. Now that they are over and done with it’s time to make a fresh start.</p> <p>Here are some of my goals/plans for 2011:</p> <ul> <li>Track my food. I’ve decided that although I know I’m eating sort of well I’ve decided to keep track of my food. I downloaded the My Fitness Pal App on my phone and I’ve been using it for the past two days to track my food and fitness.</li> <li>Workout 5 times per week. Simple, right?</li> <li>Run/Lift Weights 3 times per week. Again, simple. Part of this is going in with a plan. As well, I want to work on pushing myself more during my weight sessions. </li> <li>Swim 2 times a week. Swim you say? That’s right, the husband and I cancelled our Goodlife membership and tonight we are going to get a membership at a fitness facility that has a gym. I’m super excited about this.</li> <li>Drink Water. At least 2L a day.</li> <li>Yoga 1-2 times per week. I think this is all I’m going to have time for right now. This I am going to start at the beginning of February. Things are pretty hectic right now so I’m adding one thing at a time.</li></ul> <p>So those are my health/fitness goals for 2011. I have a very positive feeling about 2011. I think it’s going to be a big year. Some things I’m already looking forward to are: taking a trip back to Nova Scotia, my best friend having twins, continuing to sub to work towards getting a full time position here in Calgary, taking a trip to New York with the husband and a few others that I’m going to keep secret for now :)</p> <p>Well I’m off to pick up the husband from work and go sign up for our new membership. I’ll be back tomorrow with a food/gym recap from today.</p> <p>Also, thanks to everyone for their <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2011/01/blogging-why-i-left-and-why-im-back.html">nice messages</a> of welcoming me back to the blogging world. Very much appreciated.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-9568133436344431002011-01-03T12:04:00.001-07:002011-01-03T12:04:01.877-07:00Blogging: Why I Left and Why I’m Back<p>First and for most I want to wish everyone a (late) Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.</p> <p><strong><font color="#ff8000" size="4">Why I Left</font></strong></p> <p>As many of you may have noticed I haven’t been blogging lately. This hasn’t just been because it was the holiday season and I was too busy to blog but instead I made a conscious decision to take a break from blogging for a while.</p> <p>As much as I love blogging and the blogging community I felt that I had become too wrapped up in the the blogging world. I think it all started with the <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/10/my-turn-to-respond.html">Marie Claire Article</a>. I actually had nothing to do with specific bloggers but it just got me thinking about blogging and how obsessive I had become with food. I was constantly worrying about taking pictures of my food before I ate, wondering if that was exciting enough to post on the blog, comparing my eating habits with others in the blogging community and just over all constantly worrying about my food/what my next meal would be. </p> <p>I had to take a break.</p> <p><font size="4"><font color="#ff8000"><strong>Why I’m Back</strong></font></font></p> <p>To be honest I didn’t think I wanted to come back to blogging. When the husband mentioned it about two weeks ago I told him I just didn’t want to obsess about food any more. He said that I should just enjoy blogging with out worrying about what others thought of me and he also though it was a great way for me to identify with a community and help me stay of track.</p> <p>After thinking about it for a while I decided the new year was a great time to come back. It will help me get a fresh start while getting back into the swing of things. I’m now excited to be blogging again. The husband and I have made some great healthy changes (look out for my post later on today with my goals for 2011) that I can’t wait to share with everyone and I’m excited about getting involved with the community again.</p> <p>I have decided to make some changes to my blog/the way I blog. They are</p> <p>1. I’ve made a decision not to be overly obsessed with reading every healthy living blog out there. I have a few favourites that I’ve still been reading over the last few months even if I haven’t been blogging myself. I will continue to read healthy living blogs (and a few of my other favourites) but I’m not going to feel guilty if I don’t read every post.</p> <p>2. I’m going to try to work on commenting more on other blogs. Although I know I can’t read every blog I’m not good at commenting on the ones I do read. I usually read in my google reader and never comment. I’m going to work on quality not quantity and to comment whenever possible.</p> <p>3. This is my blog and I’m going to post what I want to post. I think I was so worried about posting new and interesting things that I lost sight of why I started this blog to begin with. </p> <p>Finally…</p> <p>4. I’m not setting any expectations for myself, like: I will post twice a day. I think I should be able to post at least once a day (my new schedule seems to lend itself to that) but if I miss a day I’m not going to feel guilty and feel that I need to make that up. This blog is going to be for me and as much as I love my readers I need to do what is best for me.</p> <p>I’m hoping with these changes I should be able to get back into a regular blogging routine and get back on track with a healthy lifestyle.</p> <p>I do have some great goals for 2011 and I’m looking forward to sharing them later on today but first I must head out and pick up some kitty food for my fur baby and a quick trip to the grocery store for some almond milk.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-63179562116398470062010-12-01T18:54:00.001-07:002010-12-01T18:54:16.882-07:00Tis the Season…<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb76l-qtDI/AAAAAAAADf8/G87kR1MHlKM/s1600-h/December%20046%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 046" border="0" alt="December 046" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb77MiluHI/AAAAAAAADgA/yxvwOR51pDU/December%20046_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb77pWwubI/AAAAAAAADgE/Px7cmmMjwoo/s1600-h/December%20053%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 053" border="0" alt="December 053" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb78eok9rI/AAAAAAAADgI/kfdrwnhR2S4/December%20053_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb788pNtYI/AAAAAAAADgM/cIMx6tk9tbg/s1600-h/December%20077%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 077" border="0" alt="December 077" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb79roPuLI/AAAAAAAADgQ/ln7eOoFQ-4s/December%20077_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb7-IM-bJI/AAAAAAAADgU/OoeiQY7rO4M/s1600-h/December%20063%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 063" border="0" alt="December 063" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb7-4OzuMI/AAAAAAAADgY/5ifADfuq-8Q/December%20063_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb7_qivR3I/AAAAAAAADgc/EhJZz47rulQ/s1600-h/December%20052%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 052" border="0" alt="December 052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8APO2hlI/AAAAAAAADgg/BpmkB0Vy698/December%20052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8Am-gH7I/AAAAAAAADgk/mDBj7j9-7Q0/s1600-h/December%20072%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 072" border="0" alt="December 072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8CDjdOMI/AAAAAAAADgo/3tH2sn7RupE/December%20072_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8CQgVrzI/AAAAAAAADgs/tgHcje3bzQs/s1600-h/December%20091%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 091" border="0" alt="December 091" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8DIVcrII/AAAAAAAADgw/hz5SqGf1tqg/December%20091_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8DmhF4oI/AAAAAAAADg0/UxXnmudRHRE/s1600-h/December%20075%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 075" border="0" alt="December 075" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8EDxQbOI/AAAAAAAADg4/A1P_WikeZQM/December%20075_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8En1CPRI/AAAAAAAADg8/8ldlk3_Sjno/s1600-h/December%20090%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 090" border="0" alt="December 090" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8FcPadjI/AAAAAAAADhA/Qh6C7cBz_IU/December%20090_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8GhsI_WI/AAAAAAAADhE/lxdXRedI95g/s1600-h/December%20066%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 066" border="0" alt="December 066" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8HEe24gI/AAAAAAAADhI/MhweHxblt1E/December%20066_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8HnuUC6I/AAAAAAAADhM/O0rMB3EWQVs/s1600-h/December%20070%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 070" border="0" alt="December 070" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8IVslV5I/AAAAAAAADhQ/GC96ZcGrPMY/December%20070_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8I9-8RAI/AAAAAAAADhU/xijG7ge8bdg/s1600-h/December%20067%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 067" border="0" alt="December 067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8JXqIh4I/AAAAAAAADhY/Bh6VzE84_sU/December%20067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8KQXYp_I/AAAAAAAADhc/T8B4fmMPFmk/s1600-h/December%20086%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 086" border="0" alt="December 086" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8KmqpnDI/AAAAAAAADhg/Ou_AWuS9xPI/December%20086_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8LCk4bGI/AAAAAAAADhk/YhkOVWRCLfE/s1600-h/December%20076%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 076" border="0" alt="December 076" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8Luu4FEI/AAAAAAAADho/4l7hw_wbljc/December%20076_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="312"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8MDXPhBI/AAAAAAAADhs/8kwku4itPIc/s1600-h/December%20071%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 071" border="0" alt="December 071" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8M-PQSFI/AAAAAAAADhw/NDHPeZ8Xx9k/December%20071_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8Ndbj3nI/AAAAAAAADh0/ZRFR8xKedWk/s1600-h/December%20064%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 064" border="0" alt="December 064" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8N0jq1vI/AAAAAAAADh4/FrCJsxVaRk0/December%20064_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8OtiT7II/AAAAAAAADh8/aujDN3ccJII/s1600-h/December%20094%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 094" border="0" alt="December 094" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8P-dmgkI/AAAAAAAADiA/RVs42ORNxSg/December%20094_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8RVekFjI/AAAAAAAADiE/Ipih2U2jkBI/s1600-h/December%20078%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="December 078" border="0" alt="December 078" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TPb8R4XVKDI/AAAAAAAADiI/TR6MchvFb50/December%20078_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Happy December 1st Everyone!</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-36194949290351529422010-11-08T16:02:00.001-07:002010-11-08T16:09:25.822-07:00Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower<p>So I sent this to publish this morning but for some reason it didn’t so here it is (just a little late).</p> <p>I figured since I’m off teaching middle school this morning I’d leaving you with a post I <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/11/finding-routine.html">promised</a> a few days ago.</p> <p>On Wednesday night I made <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/">Tina’s</a> Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower.</p> <p>Since I didn’t have all the ingredients on hand I adapted it a little. You can check out her recipe <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/2009/02/macaroni-and-cheese-with-cauliflower.html">here</a>.</p> <ul> <li>1 box of whole wheat macaroni <li>1 head of cauliflower <li>1 cup of breadcrumbs <li>3 tbsp of olive oil <li>1/2 cup of parsley <li>1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese <li>1 1/2 cups of ricotta <li>1/2 cup of skim milk <li>Salt and pepper</li></ul> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNiBbRBNdcI/AAAAAAAADfs/QyYDMPFKAUQ/s1600-h/November0182.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="November 018" border="0" alt="November 018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNiBb66qkrI/AAAAAAAADfw/t6dv_NjsW9U/November018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Heat oven to 400.</p> <p>Cook pasta according to directions and add chopped cauliflower for the last few mins.</p> <p>Mix together bread crumbs, 2 tbsp of olive oil, parsley (and salt and pepper)</p> <p>After pasta is drained mix together pasta, cauliflower, ricotta, cheddar and milk. Pour into casserole dish and top with bread crumb mixture.</p> <p>Cook in oven for 15 mins (or until golden brown).</p> <p>I served it with a slice of whole wheat bread with earth balance.</p> <p>Tina says it made 6 servings for her but I got at least 7 or 8 out of mine. It was huge and I ate it all week (and on the weekend for lunch).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNiBch-M_OI/AAAAAAAADf0/EE99GLMXzog/s1600-h/November0192.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="November 019" border="0" alt="November 019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNiBdfkbuQI/AAAAAAAADf4/LL7l62SkkQ0/November019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>**A few notes:</p> <ul> <li>Next time I would like to try it with the sour cream – I didn’t have any on hand so I just used the ricotta I had in my fridge <li>Also next time I would take <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/">Tina’s</a> suggestion and use extra sharp cheddar. I just used regular cheddar cheese and it really wasn’t as cheesy as I would have liked. <li>I’m not a big onion fan so I just skipped on those I don’t really think it made a difference. <li>Loved the addition of cauliflower. It was awesome to know your getting some veggies even in this delicious comfort food. <li>Finally, I used really finely cut up bread crumbs that I had. I would next time either follow the recipe and cut up bread in the food processor or use a little thicker ones next time. It was very bready and a little messy. Bread crumbs everywhere isn’t all that fun.</li></ul> <p>I’ll be back later today with the rest of my baking from the weekend and a recap of my day.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-32283079697012275952010-11-07T16:33:00.001-07:002010-11-07T16:33:50.888-07:00Baking Queen<p>So this is my second post on a weekend. Pretty good, right?</p> <p>When I left you <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/11/finding-routine.html">yesterday</a> I was heading to do some baking and as the post’s title might indicate I became a baking queen.</p> <p>Here’s my baking so far:</p> <p><strong>Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls</strong></p> <p>(adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/peanut-butter-balls-iii/Detail.aspx">allrecipes.com</a>)</p> <p>This is my husbands favourite treats. I always end up baking a few batches of this throughout the holidays. They are definitely high in calories but because they are so dense you really only need one to enjoy.</p> <p>This is also a super simple recipe that is bake-free.</p> <ul> <li>2 cups of peanut butter</li> <li>1/2 cup butter</li> <li>3 cups of icing sugar</li> <li>2 cups of Rice Krispies Cereal</li> <li>2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips</li></ul> <p>In a bowl mix together icing sugar and rice krispies.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3MJVqLGI/AAAAAAAADes/NOqg-tNI6kA/s1600-h/November%20002%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 002" border="0" alt="November 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3NBYfSvI/AAAAAAAADew/IUDgotiHT4E/November%20002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Then melt together peanut butter and butter and a sauce pan.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3N5t8n7I/AAAAAAAADe0/NeF2zmMAIyk/s1600-h/November%20003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 003" border="0" alt="November 003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3OgPMmuI/AAAAAAAADe4/tiNmps5f8Zg/November%20003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Pour the peanut butter mixture over the icing sugar mixture and combine.</p> <p>Once combined roll into balls about 1 inch in size and place on baking sheet.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3PR6ZBoI/AAAAAAAADe8/5mImCWz3WHU/s1600-h/November%20005%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 005" border="0" alt="November 005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3P6HyG3I/AAAAAAAADfA/ZH5LBIGGwAA/November%20005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Put baking sheet in fridge for a few hours (or if your like me and trying to please the husband as quickly as possible – freezer for about an hour).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3Q6l0EcI/AAAAAAAADfE/e154Rrc6k1w/s1600-h/November%20004%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 004" border="0" alt="November 004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3RqMAiUI/AAAAAAAADfI/ckoqQmwLiok/November%20004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Once firm melt chocolate and and dip balls in chocolate. Place back in fridge (or freezer) and another couple of hours and serve.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3SYfp0bI/AAAAAAAADfM/wh0a9odNkT0/s1600-h/November%20019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 019" border="0" alt="November 019" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3TYlP7hI/AAAAAAAADfQ/79FsneR9FAU/November%20019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>This delicious little beasts are always a hit around the holidays. I took them to a Christmas party last year and everyone raved about them. They are super easy and they last forever. Just make sure to store them in the fridge (or you can freeze them) as they melt very quickly.</p> <p>Chocolate Chip Cookies</p> <p>I took this recipe from Kelly at <a href="http://browniesandzucchini.com/">browniesandzucchini.com</a></p> <p>I followed the <a href="http://browniesandzucchini.com/2010/11/07/chocolatetown-chip-cookies/">recipe</a> exactly but I’m just going to repost it here for convenience.</p> <ul> <li>3/4 cup butter (softened)</li> <li>1 cup light brown sugar</li> <li>1/2 organic sugar</li> <li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li> <li>2 eggs</li> <li>2 cups of all-purpose flour</li> <li>1 tsp baking soda</li> <li>1 tsp salt</li> <li>2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips</li></ul> <p>Pre-heat oven to 375.</p> <p>In a small bowl mix dry ingredients minus the chocolate chips (flour, baking soda and salt).</p> <p>Mix together butter, brown sugar, vanilla and sugar until light and fluffy.</p> <p>Then add eggs and beat.</p> <p>Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ones then add in chocolate chips.</p> <p>Add cookies in baking sheet and bake for 8-14 mins depending on size of cookies. My smaller ones took about 8-10 where my larger cookies took about 12-14 mins.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3T5Og9qI/AAAAAAAADfU/FpnVN6bA7xA/s1600-h/November%20008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 008" border="0" alt="November 008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3UknUecI/AAAAAAAADfY/FfTN5UJPvbs/November%20008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>This recipe made so many cookies. I think in total it made about 20 large cookies and 20 smaller cookies.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3VMZcMFI/AAAAAAAADfc/NR12MBKR8LI/s1600-h/November%20011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 011" border="0" alt="November 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3Vg6MMwI/AAAAAAAADfg/tpGFdzwWKQw/November%20011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>They seemed to go on forever. I’ve already put most of them in the freezer for the holidays but not first without a taste test. They turned out perfect.</p> <p>I’m now in the process of making a loaf of Chocolate Banana Gingerbread and then a batch of pumpkin granola bars.</p> <p>I’ll give you a preview picture…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3WlAwGkI/AAAAAAAADfk/gc6GONfnzt8/s1600-h/November%20015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November 015" border="0" alt="November 015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNc3XPelLyI/AAAAAAAADfo/3A12gXKiUPI/November%20015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-66837592610048799122010-11-06T17:02:00.001-06:002010-11-07T17:26:35.060-07:00Finding a Routine<p>Hey bloggies!</p> <p>I know I’ve been absent the past few days but for a good reason. I finally started working again. Just subbing but it’s a start. Remember when I posted a few days ago that my first day was on Friday – grade 5. Well just after that I got a job working Thursday as well so I’m two for two in the (can work:did work ratio). </p> <p>But getting back into a routine as not been quite so easy. Before working I was cooking every night – new and exciting new recipes. Since working those two days I haven’t cooked either night.</p> <p>Thursday – we had leftovers. Wednesday I made <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/">Tina’s</a> recipe for <a href="http://carrotsncake.com/2009/02/macaroni-and-cheese-with-cauliflower.html">mac and cheese with cauliflower</a> – with a few minor changes (recipe to come soon so check back) so we had that with leftovers. I also had it for lunch Thursday as well.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXegea6x3I/AAAAAAAADeQ/WvhpYFnEnZg/s1600-h/November%20019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="November 019" border="0" alt="November 019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXeg6XqlfI/AAAAAAAADeU/WD_4-ZlDQhA/November%20019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Friday – we ordered pizza. I gave into the husband and let him order a meat pizza. This is the first time I’ve eaten meat in about 3 /12 weeks. Honestly, I really don’t miss it and the pizza last night wasn’t really that great. Definitely going to stick to veggies from now on.</p> <p>This morning I woke up and had one of the best days I’ve had in a while. </p> <p>It started with a little cleaning and laundry. Once that was done I enjoyed breakfast with the hubby (scrambled eggs) and then spend the rest of the morning relaxing with a cup of tea, listening to Christmas music, catching up on my favourite blogs and enjoying the sunshine.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXehbMoMzI/AAAAAAAADeY/-vLGHutSRa0/s1600-h/November%20024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="November 024" border="0" alt="November 024" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXeiC_xQ8I/AAAAAAAADec/9eH37yFuEYY/November%20024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>After lunch (more leftover mac and cheese) I headed to the grocery store to pick up a few things to do some baking later on (will share tomorrow). </p> <p>Then came home and when for my first run in months. </p> <p>I ran only about 2km but it really felt great. I miss exercising and am really looking forward to getting back into it. I feel that now that I’m working again it time to really create a routine for myself which will include exercising, eating right, blogging, having some me time and of course hanging out with the hubby.</p> <p>Post run I was starving so I toasted 1/2 a whole wheat English muffin with pb and a few chocolate chips (the sugar is good for after a run – right? hehe).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXeiV_AudI/AAAAAAAADeg/iyPtx7lKdPU/s1600-h/November%20025%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="November 025" border="0" alt="November 025" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TNXei5Ty3oI/AAAAAAAADek/hPJ-UsczBg0/November%20025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Well I’m now off to do some baking (I’m getting a head start for the holidays – I plan on freezing most of it) and then cook some dinner. The husband wanted steak tonight so I’m making black bean and sweet potato burgers. I’ll let you know how they turned out.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-82673331724421883302010-11-02T20:33:00.001-06:002010-11-02T20:33:53.071-06:00And My First Day of Work Is…<p>Friday! </p> <p>I finally got all my paper work done and I can officially start subbing</p> <p>So excited. Teaching grade 5. </p> <p>That is all.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-74598223758345031392010-11-01T15:46:00.001-06:002010-11-01T15:46:43.521-06:00Halloween, November and More<p>Happy November Everyone!</p> <p>I first thought I’d start this post off with a few of my favourite things about November</p> <ul> <li>It’s definitely sweater weather (sometimes October can be warm)</li> <li>I can start listening to Christmas Music</li> <li>The last few weeks in the month the husband and I start some of my favourite Christmas traditions (will share more on that later when it gets closer)</li> <li>It’s time to bring out the hats, scarves and mitts (my favourites right now are my Vancouver 2010 mitts I got from <a href="http://www.embracingbalance.com/">Jaime</a> last winter)</li> <li>Finally, although this isn’t every November I finally get to start working again this month. I go in tomorrow to start some paperwork and I’ll be working again in the next few weeks. YAY!</li></ul> <p>So yesterday was Halloween. If you follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HerInnerShine">twitter</a> you might know that I’m not the biggest fan of Halloween. I really enjoy seeing all the little kids dressed up but I’ve never been a fan of dressing up myself since becoming an adult. I’m just never very good figuring out fun and exciting costumes. The last time I dressed up was probably about 9 years ago and I dressed up as a baby – boring right?</p> <p>Anyways, since the husband knows I’m not a big fan of dressing up but I love holiday movies (Christmas but I love holiday movies of all types) we spent the day having a Halloween inspired movie marathon.</p> <p>We watched:</p> <p>The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Saturday Night)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81MxMik_I/AAAAAAAADds/VHcAZ-G1Rg0/s1600-h/Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show" border="0" alt="Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81NmcMENI/AAAAAAAADdw/f5Ap5ATm8H8/Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="364"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://cdn.indyposted.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Rocky-Horror-Picture-Show.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p align="left">Beetlejuice (Sunday)</p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81OMQZG1I/AAAAAAAADd0/2cV2tzHcA5g/s1600-h/beetlejuice%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="beetlejuice" border="0" alt="beetlejuice" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81OpEHwLI/AAAAAAAADd4/DR43LaIK-ME/beetlejuice_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="271" height="364"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://geektyrant.com/storage/post-images/beetlejuice.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1271459953254">(Source)</a></p> <p>Gremlins (Sunday)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81PO7YEhI/AAAAAAAADd8/xza7HHMPJDg/s1600-h/gremlins%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="gremlins" border="0" alt="gremlins" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81Pj3bGqI/AAAAAAAADeA/ld54FXrJqug/gremlins_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="364"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.comicbookmovie.com/images/uploads/gremlins.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>Bram Stoker’s Dracula (Sunday)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81QAd0BqI/AAAAAAAADeE/Z9642GhKIe0/s1600-h/dracula%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dracula" border="0" alt="dracula" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TM81QsNGFfI/AAAAAAAADeI/3zv9munNsK8/dracula_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="259" height="364"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51RDE2T3NKL.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>We also make a quick trip up the see the niece and nephew all dress up. They were so cute. My niece (age 6) dressed up as a witch and my nephew (age 4) dressed up as a monkey. We had considered going out trick-or-treating with them but we figured 5 adults and 2 children we’re a bit much. Maybe next year :)</p> <p>Finally I wanted to give you a quick update on how the <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/10/men-vs-women-food-choices.html">vegetarian vs. non-vegetarian</a> eating was going.</p> <p>This weekend was great. We did some easy healthy meals that were friendly for both the husband and I. Friday night we did homemade pizzas on naan, Saturday we did fajitas (vegetarian for me, beef for the hubby) and Sunday we did quesadillas. Tonight I’m going to make some spaghetti squash with pasta sauce. I’ll probably add some veggies and edamame to mine and I’m making meatballs for the hubby. Overall, things have been going really well. </p> <p>Well I haven’t been feeling all that well today (I hate having a sore throat) so I’m going to spend the rest of the afternoon curled up on the couch listening to some Christmas music and catching up on some of my favourite blogs.</p> <p>Question(s) of the Day: <strong>What is your favourite thing about November?</strong> and <strong>How did you celebrate Halloween?</strong></p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-27048836438905138862010-10-29T13:09:00.001-06:002010-10-29T13:09:17.996-06:00Skipping Breakfast<p>Yesterday I woke up and did the cardinal sin of all healthy living bloggers…I skipped breakfast. I know! I just wasn’t hungry and even though I know breakfast is the most important meal of the day I skipped it and headed out to run my errands.</p> <p>So if you remember from my last blog post I mentioned I was going to make a Rachael Ray meal for dinner on Wednesday night. Well I did and it turned out pretty great. It was a spinach and egg noodle casserole. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsbyw7ojcI/AAAAAAAADdU/PbbmBlW9G4w/s1600-h/October%20001%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 001" border="0" alt="October 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsbz5-fWdI/AAAAAAAADdY/_NZ9NblxTP4/October%20001_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I was even able to accommodate both the husband and I. I followed the recipe exactly for myself and for the husbands I added chicken to his. </p> <p>I’m not going to post the recipe here but if your interested you should definitely pick up her November issue of Everyday with Rachael Ray.</p> <p>This issue has lots of Thanksgiving recipes but it also has some great veggie side dishes that can also double as a main dish. Some of the recipes that I’m really looking forward to trying are:</p> <ul> <li>Zucchini Caponata</li> <li>Roast Mushrooms and Kale over Mashed Sweet Potatoes</li> <li>Root Vegetable Mac ‘n’ Cheese</li> <li>Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Pecans</li> <li>Cauliflower-Leek Puree</li> <li>Green Alien Ravioli (made with edamame)</li> <li>Mushroom Stuffing</li></ul> <p>I’d definitely recommend picking up the magazine if you get a chance.</p> <p>Last night I also made a great recipe. <a href="http://www.thefrontburnerblog.com/">Emily’s</a> recipe that she made for her fall feast. <a href="http://www.thefrontburnerblog.com/2010/10/recipes-from-the-fall-feast.html">Butternut Squash and Black Bean Chili served in a Pumpkin Bowl</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsb0aIpTpI/AAAAAAAADdc/HcELdSvMqIk/s1600-h/October%20008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 008" border="0" alt="October 008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsb02-tdkI/AAAAAAAADdg/GfPZkWBIChE/October%20008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I also served it with a whole wheat roll.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsb1uuhMuI/AAAAAAAADdk/UjvQHXQeKe0/s1600-h/October%20009%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 009" border="0" alt="October 009" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMsb2jMpEPI/AAAAAAAADdo/ZwkaB6yqdH8/October%20009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I followed her recipe exactly except I halved it since I was just making it for the husband and I. We both loved it The pumpkin bowls were definitely a great idea. I loved getting pumpkin with every scoop. It made tons and and we had two servings of leftovers.</p> <p>The rest of the weekend isn’t going to be too exciting. It’s going to include:</p> <ul> <li>Spending the afternoon curled up on the couch watching a movie</li> <li>A little grocery shopping</li> <li>Pizza on naan for dinner tonight</li> <li>Getting the car fixed tomorrow afternoon</li> <li>Having a Halloween night tomorrow with the husband which includes: Rocky Horror, Scared Shrekless, Charlie Brown’s Pumpkin and more </li> <li>Going to visit the the niece and nephew on Halloween to see them all dressed up</li></ul> <p>Well I’m off to make some lunch and then curl up on the couch.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-55829097513283203932010-10-27T17:25:00.001-06:002010-10-27T17:25:48.744-06:00Big News<p>So I have some new to share with everyone. Maybe the title of the post is a little misleading but for me it’s big news! </p> <p>I found out I made it on the sub list!</p> <p>I’m sure some of you out there are scratching your head going, ‘big new? I don’t understand’. Well the school board that I got on (there’s a few different board around here) they only hire 150 subs for all the schools so that means I’m more likely to get work. </p> <p>This is definitely good news! Now I just need to sub and work but butt off and hopefully I can get a full-time job in the near future. It’s still going to be a few weeks before I can start working (paperwork and such) but I’m really looking forward to getting back to work.</p> <p>In other news it’s starting to get very chilly here in Calgary. It was –4 this morning. With all the cold weather around here I bet you can guess what I was craving for breakfast when I woke up: Oatmeal.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi05k6TBtI/AAAAAAAADc0/qhMF8sw7E1U/s1600-h/October%20001%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 001" border="0" alt="October 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi06e_c8VI/AAAAAAAADc4/CLjvb8OhskQ/October%20001_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>In today’s pot: 1/3 cup of steel cut oats, 2/3 cup of skim milk, 1 tsp of chia seeds, 1 tsp vanilla extract (unfortunately I had no banana to add to it). </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi07Ctv3_I/AAAAAAAADc8/7IsU6wTGhVE/s1600-h/October%20002%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 002" border="0" alt="October 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi07-UzOLI/AAAAAAAADdA/MJyf4ZbUnIM/October%20002_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Toppings included: <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/10/pumpkins-galore.html">pumpkin butter</a>, peanut butter, pumpkin seeds, chocolate chips and a splash of milk.</p> <p>I love hot oatmeal on a cool fall morning.</p> <p>After breakfast I headed to the grocery store. I had no idea what was for supper. After <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/10/men-vs-women-food-choices.html">yesterday’s post</a> I’m still having some difficulty pleasing both the husband and myself. While at the grocery store I picked up the new Rachael Ray magazine and came up with a perfect idea for dinner. I can’t wait to share it with you all tomorrow.</p> <p>I spent some time this morning doing some blog reading and lunch became inspired by <a href="http://www.embracingbalance.com/2010/10/dammit-janet.html">Jaime’s</a> post and made some grilled cheese.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi09MCC8nI/AAAAAAAADdE/basR8oooPS4/s1600-h/October%20007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 007" border="0" alt="October 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi09uEIPOI/AAAAAAAADdI/SP0POE5gbos/October%20007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Cheddar and seven grain bread. Nom!</p> <p>I actually followed <a href="http://www.embracingbalance.com/">Jaime</a> exactly and had the grilled cheese with a side of carrots.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi0-AV2JuI/AAAAAAAADdM/Km8md4ytg98/s1600-h/October%20010%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 010" border="0" alt="October 010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMi0-l-9nmI/AAAAAAAADdQ/N7j46SF2kTI/October%20010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Don’t we all just love comfort food?</p> <p>Well I’ll be back tomorrow and I’ll let you know how tonight’s dinner turned out.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-29480292246399636962010-10-26T18:32:00.001-06:002010-10-26T18:32:22.806-06:00Men Vs. Women – Food Choices<p>So this is not the blog post I was planning on writing but after a conversation with the husband last night I decided that this topic is what needs to be discussed. </p> <p>First, I won’t forget to tell you all about my first teacher experience here in Calgary. I subbed at a private school today and it was great. </p> <p>When I woke up this morning I wasn’t feeling the teaching vibe. Maybe it was the fact that I’ve been able to sleep in for the past 4 months or maybe it was that I’m use to doing things on my own schedule but I just didn’t want to get out of bed. </p> <p>But after an hour or so in the classroom I got my groove back and was loving it. It was so nice to be back out there interacting with children, other teachers and staff. Anyways, I only had that one day booked but I can’t wait to get another teacher call soon.</p> <p>Ok, back to the topic of discussion today: Men Vs. Women – Food Choices.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMdzDzZUFCI/AAAAAAAADck/SllXgqXEDkQ/s1600-h/_41305455_genderbbc%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="_41305455_genderbbc" border="0" alt="_41305455_genderbbc" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMdzEWFICMI/AAAAAAAADco/J0F6muhRypY/_41305455_genderbbc_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" height="172"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.digitaljournal.com/img/1/2/0/3/i/2/1/1/o/_41305455_genderbbc.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>This probably isn’t completely fair because I know this isn’t really an men/women issue but unfortunately in my household it is.</p> <p>Although I haven’t come out to say it on the blog yet I’ve been eating a lot of vegetarian meals lately. I haven’t completely gone veg but I’d say 90% of my meals have been and it has been a conscious decision on my part. Unfortunately it is causing some disagreements with the husband.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMdzE9fBnxI/AAAAAAAADcs/_2tlU2OlFoA/s1600-h/food%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="food" border="0" alt="food" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMdzFeik_wI/AAAAAAAADcw/K7fzzKrZfc8/food_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="270"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.findingdulcinea.com/docroot/dulcinea/fd_images/features/multi-day/sitings/18-weekly-feature/The-Foodie--Men-vs--Women/features/0/image.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>These are the two main issues we’ve been discussing:</p> <ol> <li>The husband doesn’t necessarily feel that vegetarians are healthier then meat-eaters. I agree (being a vegetarian doesn’t necessarily mean you are healthier then a meat-eater – one is not better then the other – I feel that since I started eating more veg meals I’ve been eating better and feel just feel better overall) with him on this point I think that he feels that I am not getting enough protein and other vitamins that meat provides. I know he is just worried about me but I’m just not sure how to convince him that I’m watching what I eat and definitely getting enough of all the vitamins and protein that I need.</li> <li>We are having issues with two different meals. They are actually not two different meals but I usually will add chicken to his meal (although sometimes he will eat some of the vegetarian meals that I cook but he likes to eat meat at least 4-5 times a week for dinner). I guess the problem is that it’s getting more and more difficult to find meals that will please both of us. In his words yesterday, “you can’t just add chicken to meal and make it ok. It doesn’t necessarily taste good”. </li></ol> <p><strong>So here is where I’m asking for your help. How do you and your significant other deal with different eating habits? Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated.</strong></p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-29010581495412171182010-10-25T15:26:00.001-06:002010-10-25T15:26:36.310-06:00First Snowfall<p>I woke up this morning to this…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX17fiavTI/AAAAAAAADbs/J0UkKOdQRdA/s1600-h/October%20015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 015" border="0" alt="October 015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX1711lFbI/AAAAAAAADbw/7yw6AGYkyLY/October%20015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>And this…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX18zMXgBI/AAAAAAAADb0/8bagOgyiSAI/s1600-h/October%20016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 016" border="0" alt="October 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX19Q74UpI/AAAAAAAADb4/PWz_mDWDfqc/October%20016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Although the road wasn’t covered the ground, cars and rooftops were. Our first snowfall of the year. Even though I love the look of snow I was not impressed – it’s only October. </p> <p>I had to get up this morning and drive my dad to the airport so after a long expedition (I won’t go into details but a 45 min trip ended up being about 2 hours) so on the way home I stopped at starbucks and splurged on this…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX19_CGk9I/AAAAAAAADb8/7MD8ESn1fGg/s1600-h/October%20019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 019" border="0" alt="October 019" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX1-Ux_-jI/AAAAAAAADcA/xyx8AnTB-9Q/October%20019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Grande Non-Fat, No Whip Pumpkin Spice Latte and this…</p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX1-yetUII/AAAAAAAADcE/5UPPiNUBDfY/s1600-h/October%20018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 018" border="0" alt="October 018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX1_VS8FhI/AAAAAAAADcI/OtOWJrpTh70/October%20018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> <p>Pumpkin Scone.</p> <p>And now I’m sitting on the couch doing this…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX1_yXRIVI/AAAAAAAADcM/zBdDXRxssuc/s1600-h/October%20020%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 020" border="0" alt="October 020" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX2AWuVzxI/AAAAAAAADcQ/XnqMMSErbY8/October%20020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Icing my poor knee. I’m not sure what I did to it but I’ve been having throbbing pain in it for a little over 12 hours now. I’ve been putting the ice on for about 30 mins then giving myself a break from the freezing cold. I’m going to continue to do this for the next for hours and hopefully it will start to feel better. </p> <p>So the reason I’ve been absent from the blog world for almost a week or so is the arrival of family. My dad and step-mom came into town on Wednesday evening and we’ve been busy ever since. Here’s a quick rundown of my weekend.</p> <p>Thursday: </p> <ul> <li>Spend most of the morning cleaning and grocery shopping for the arrival of my dad and stepmom. They came to the our apartment for dinner that night. I made a macaroni casserole for dinner and it turned out great. Everyone seemed to enjoy it and it was really great to see family from home.</li></ul> <p>Friday:</p> <ul> <li>Friday was a little more chilled. Matt took the day off work and we hung out with the niece and nephew for most of the afternoon. That night the boys (my dad, Matt, and my two stepbrothers) went to a football game that evening so the girls (myself, my stepmom and my stepsister-in-law) hung out with the little kids, ordered chinese and had a girls night.</li></ul> <p>Saturday:</p> <ul> <li>Matt and I spend the morning/early afternoon in Banff with my dad and stepmom and then in the late afternoon it was the niece and nephew’s birthday party. The party was super fun and the kids were awesome.</li></ul> <p>Sunday:</p> <ul> <li>We celebrated a late Thanksgiving. It included lots of family and some great food. A wonderful way to spend the end of the weekend.</li></ul> <p>Well that’s it for me today. I should be back to regular scheduled blogging tomorrow. I’m subbing tomorrow (yay my first subbing day of the year) at a private school so my blog post might be a little later then usual but I’ll definitely be blogging.</p> <p>I’ll leave you with a pic of my lunch. I decided to do breakfast for lunch since I enjoyed my pumpkin scone for breakfast.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX2AiVtMNI/AAAAAAAADcU/3Ol96uLzO1Q/s1600-h/October%20021%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 021" border="0" alt="October 021" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX2BQra1-I/AAAAAAAADcY/uJyFJaxqVjM/October%20021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Lunch was a two egg scramble with spinach and feta and a blueberry waffle. I topped the waffle with a little maple syrup.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX2CKYJefI/AAAAAAAADcc/ID6WIPFSARs/s1600-h/October%20024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 024" border="0" alt="October 024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TMX2CtsoTGI/AAAAAAAADcg/V610w3xUwsQ/October%20024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Overall, delicious!</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-67906221841635971552010-10-19T16:33:00.001-06:002010-10-19T16:33:38.781-06:00Pumpkins Galore<p>I’ve been sucked into the world of pumpkin by the blog world. Pumpkin is everywhere, pumpkin bread, pumpkin oats, pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin scones, etc. My place has pumpkins everywhere…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cm5G0DjI/AAAAAAAADak/GM5Wg7va1aM/s1600-h/October%20005%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 005" border="0" alt="October 005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cnj6Wr_I/AAAAAAAADao/iaPX97STGzk/October%20005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>And the hubby doesn’t even like them.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cn3dr_SI/AAAAAAAADas/WIcF7GvxN7c/s1600-h/October%20011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 011" border="0" alt="October 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4coiXIbLI/AAAAAAAADaw/-WzdW-gfNz8/October%20011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I actually have two reasons for all this pumpkin. For the baby pumpkins I was planning on making <a href="http://www.thefrontburnerblog.com/">Emily’s</a> recipe for <a href="http://www.thefrontburnerblog.com/2010/10/recipes-from-the-fall-feast.html">chili</a> served in pumpkins that she did for her foodbuzz challenge for my dad and stepmom who are coming over for dinner on Thursday night.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cpGW0A_I/AAAAAAAADa0/0um9yur9EvE/s1600-h/October%20009%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 009" border="0" alt="October 009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cpk8tCQI/AAAAAAAADa4/mKV7-v9QMt4/October%20009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>After I emailed them the menu to make sure they liked everything on it I got <strike>one</strike> two emails from my dad telling me NO CHILI. He does not like it. I’ve had to scrap that idea and figure out something new.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cqMsipRI/AAAAAAAADa8/qEil9_UrG5g/s1600-h/October%20007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 007" border="0" alt="October 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cqvr--BI/AAAAAAAADbA/zawoQmB6How/October%20007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Now I have 4 baby pumpkins and no idea what to do with them. I actually think I’ll make the chili for the husband and I next week (since it looks amazing) but I’m going to have to come up with an idea for the other two. If you have any suggestions I’d love to know.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4crV8FOCI/AAAAAAAADbE/3kUi-MiKPVs/s1600-h/October%20013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 013" border="0" alt="October 013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cr5EakXI/AAAAAAAADbI/h59kihcH_h4/October%20013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>As for all the canned pumpkin I’m in the process of making <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2010/10/05/happy-thanksgiving-homemade-pumpkin-butter/">Pumpkin Butter</a> from <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Angela</a>. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cskZiReI/AAAAAAAADbM/__rxP9p_Rw4/s1600-h/October%20015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 015" border="0" alt="October 015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4ctLlI4BI/AAAAAAAADbQ/LXYGVQ6uHfg/October%20015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>We are celebrating Thanksgiving this weekend with my dad, stepmom and her kids so I’m making a jar for each family (4 in total).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4ctvlbnAI/AAAAAAAADbU/KVbPN01TM0w/s1600-h/October%20014%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 014" border="0" alt="October 014" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cuKugjLI/AAAAAAAADbY/6Ui5EXBdKcs/October%20014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I thought this would be a great hostess gift since our place is too small to have everyone over. The only problem is that I ended up picking up huge mason jar (I was intending to get smaller ones) so now I’m making more of it then intended and have to go back to the store for more brown sugar.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4culyHN_I/AAAAAAAADbc/gwnRMrWS-ZU/s1600-h/October%20020%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 020" border="0" alt="October 020" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cvDPMw-I/AAAAAAAADbg/WTg9eK-P13c/October%20020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I’m already made one batch (I split it into two because of the amount I have to make) and it smells and tastes amazing and now I’m just waiting for it to cool to put into jars and add ribbon. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cvm5FqyI/AAAAAAAADbk/l6gJt5Scd1M/s1600-h/October%20019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 019" border="0" alt="October 019" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TL4cwVfAVAI/AAAAAAAADbo/RyVA2n2RMGM/October%20019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I’ll post some after pictures tomorrow. I’m also making a little extra to keep for myself. </p> <p>Well I’d better go. I have to go back to the store and the dry cleaners before coming back making another batch of pumpkin butter, make some stuffed peppers for dinner and making a batch of chocolate chip blondies. I’ve got a busy evening of cooking and baking ahead.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-44408224028902579722010-10-16T17:49:00.001-06:002010-10-16T17:49:18.432-06:00And I Chose…<p>First I want to thank everyone for their awesome cookbook suggestions. After I wrote yesterdays <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/10/cookbook-help.html">post</a> and made a call out to <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HerInnerShine">twitter</a> I got some great suggestions for vegetarian cookbooks.</p> <p>Here are some of the books recommended:</p> <ul> <li>Supernatural Cooking</li> <li>Any of the Moosewood Cookbooks</li> <li>Vegan on the Cheap</li> <li>Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone</li> <li>Rebar Cookbook</li> <li>Garden of Vegan</li></ul> <p>After hitting up two chapters stores, one 25% off coupon later and browsing tons of cookbooks I left with…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLo5-2osqdI/AAAAAAAADac/5nS_nd-98hk/s1600-h/veggie%20cookbook%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="veggie cookbook" border="0" alt="veggie cookbook" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLo5_bUZ74I/AAAAAAAADag/ZcuEExSN7Jo/veggie%20cookbook_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="293" height="364"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51nlbmRddnL.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>Thanks so much to <a href="http://wellpurposed.wordpress.com/">Robyn</a> for this suggestion. I will admit that this book was expensive (about $50) but with the 25% off coupon and my irewards card of another 10% off I decided to splurge and get it. What I love about this book is that it doesn’t just list recipes but each section (eg. beans, vegetables, soups, casseroles, stir fries) goes into an explanation about the section. </p> <p>For example: Winter Squash and Pumpkin – This has sections on</p> <ul> <li>Types of Squash</li> <li>What to Look For</li> <li>How to Store</li> <li>How to Use</li> <li>Special Handling</li> <li>Quality</li></ul> <p>Then it is followed by recipes using Squash and Pumpkins. In total the book is over 700 pages in length and has hundreds and hundreds of recipes. I will definitely have lots of yummy recipes to keep me busy for a while.</p> <p>Thanks again to everyone for their lovely suggestions. I can’t wait to pick up a Moosewood Cookbook as well. I was debating between both but ended up with my choice because of the extra 25% coupon. It could only be used on a purchase of $35 dollars or more so I decided to take advantage and pick up the more expensive book.</p> <p>Tonight we are celebrating Matt’s birthday so I’m making a simple pasta recipe (which is what he asked for) but I’m sure I’ll have some exciting new dishes to share with you soon.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-72792080210284456552010-10-15T10:33:00.001-06:002010-10-15T10:33:30.843-06:00Cookbook Help<p>This will be a short and sweet post.</p> <p>Sorry for the lack of food blogging lately. I think the best meal I had this week was super simple. It was roasted veggies (sweet potatoes, butternut squash and broccoli) served on a 1/2 cup of quinoa topped with some roasted cranberries (I promise if you stick cranberries in the oven with your roasted veggies for the last five mins or so they turn out delicious) and a little feta. Absolutely wonderful dinner. Unfortunately I was so excited about eating it I forgot to take a picture.</p> <p>Yesterday I also got creative with lunch. I was craving parsnip fries but I had no idea what to have with them. After thinking and thinking I came up with a simple and easy idea.</p> <p>Two pieces of whole wheat Italian bread topped with a thin layer of pizza sauce, tons of spinach and a little mozza and feta (another obsession of mine right now).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCTj-l4PI/AAAAAAAADaE/K1qq2KrKeI8/s1600-h/October%20002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 002" border="0" alt="October 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCUGHrI-I/AAAAAAAADaI/J3yGchzoFyU/October%20002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>Served with parsnip fries of course.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCUjV2F2I/AAAAAAAADaM/Yk3eZnZUiWk/s1600-h/October%20003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 003" border="0" alt="October 003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCVFVNSuI/AAAAAAAADaQ/Ah2Mip0z6sY/October%20003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>And I even remembered to take pictures this time :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCVqZdn9I/AAAAAAAADaU/AsC-LzH3MPg/s1600-h/October%20001%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 001" border="0" alt="October 001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLiCWHBybZI/AAAAAAAADaY/R_8LV1E2QOE/October%20001_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>These were the only three pictures on my camera when I plugged it in :(</p> <p><strong>Help Needed:</strong></p> <p>Ok so here’s what I need help with right now. I’m heading to the store later to pick up a vegetarian cookbook and I need your ideas on your favourite one. If I don’t get any suggestions I’ll have to grab whichever one I feel looks the best but I’d love some input if you have a favourite.</p> <p>My other plans for today include:</p> <ul> <li>Yoga in a hour</li> <li>Lunch at Wok Box</li> <li>Picking up the Hubby’s Birthday Present (his birthday is on Monday)</li> <li>Spending some Quality Time on the Couch with a Book</li></ul> <p><strong><font color="#800000">Happy Friday Everyone and Enjoy Your Weekend!</font></strong></p> <p><strong>And don’t forget to leave a comment with your favourite vegetarian recipe book.</strong></p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-47003398393515128372010-10-13T16:59:00.001-06:002010-10-13T16:59:50.221-06:00Giving Thanks<p> This past weekend was Thanksgiving in Canada. Unfortunately we didn’t celebrate this weekend. My dad and step-mom are coming to visit in a week and we decided to save Thanksgiving until them. We did do quite a few fun activities including taking the niece and nephew to an amusement park, having a board game evening with the family and another trip to Banff but I decided to go camera free and just enjoy the weekend. It was actually kinda nice to just enjoy myself but because of this I have nothing to show you.</p> <p>Since this past weekend was Thanksgiving I decided that a post on what I’m thankful for would be appropriate today.</p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>My Husband</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5eDsk13I/AAAAAAAADXE/b3b_lRF_M2w/s1600-h/March%20008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="March 008" border="0" alt="March 008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5exx0wXI/AAAAAAAADXI/jaQkBfU5FzE/March%20008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a><strong></strong></p> <p></p> <p>He can be silly or serious, happy or sad but he is my best friend and I love him. He would do anything for me and I have no idea what I would do without him.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5fbAaNmI/AAAAAAAADXM/-5Amlc47NAg/s1600-h/July%20106%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 106" border="0" alt="July 106" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5f5x25JI/AAAAAAAADXQ/GBAkPiEB8zw/July%20106_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5ggT8QmI/AAAAAAAADXU/2uI0lFLZmEA/s1600-h/July%20108%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 108" border="0" alt="July 108" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5hHbzQMI/AAAAAAAADXY/_Flr3lrI-bM/July%20108_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>My Kitty</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5hvnmDqI/AAAAAAAADXc/eCY8ObfHkjU/s1600-h/April%20004%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="April 004" border="0" alt="April 004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5icZbjcI/AAAAAAAADXg/1pahOoV9P0s/April%20004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>He is the best fur kitty anyone could ever have. </p> <p>He loves to play…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5i801wFI/AAAAAAAADXk/vjXGUZmrTb8/s1600-h/July%20001%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 001" border="0" alt="July 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5jSs-g5I/AAAAAAAADXo/JLn_H2MzJR4/July%20001_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5j3IXBAI/AAAAAAAADXs/5YWnVFwS8Eo/s1600-h/July%20015%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 015" border="0" alt="July 015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5kjq34eI/AAAAAAAADXw/yrSghh-YtmE/July%20015_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p>He love to sleep…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5lEzm-5I/AAAAAAAADX0/__zkmb3yQLE/s1600-h/July%20049%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 049" border="0" alt="July 049" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5lrlb2tI/AAAAAAAADX4/MmGoLRPMyqI/July%20049_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5mFeIaVI/AAAAAAAADX8/ylNW9P5_5Ps/s1600-h/July%20060%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="July 060" border="0" alt="July 060" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5mlLNj_I/AAAAAAAADYA/5GGRNoCvRAw/July%20060_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p>And everything in between.</p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>My Friends and Family</strong> (back home and all over the world).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5nMJI2-I/AAAAAAAADYE/OeTl_HPPBDk/s1600-h/yoga01%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="yoga01" border="0" alt="yoga01" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5ngdUXfI/AAAAAAAADYI/bsJIJ7CX8IM/yoga01_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5oeMYLrI/AAAAAAAADYM/lS4xLMoJb68/s1600-h/friends04%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="friends04" border="0" alt="friends04" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5o7QGrMI/AAAAAAAADYQ/_JdQAPvTx00/friends04_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5pW3k4-I/AAAAAAAADYU/Kx4Red6bByo/s1600-h/November04%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="November04" border="0" alt="November04" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5qOucJWI/AAAAAAAADYY/qvHJhAETw28/November04_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5qjpwt1I/AAAAAAAADYc/nEPXJ8z5nv8/s1600-h/Wedding01%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Wedding01" border="0" alt="Wedding01" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5rMqbkVI/AAAAAAAADYg/Z2zexvupI40/Wedding01_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5r-l03SI/AAAAAAAADYk/TFPAzp9KmDU/s1600-h/Wedding02%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Wedding02" border="0" alt="Wedding02" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5suMafNI/AAAAAAAADYo/LEKiKLB3hq8/Wedding02_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="236" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5tCvVOLI/AAAAAAAADYs/hEgzxHu1JL8/s1600-h/Wedding03%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Wedding03" border="0" alt="Wedding03" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5t82FNbI/AAAAAAAADYw/y-rVtVSFswc/Wedding03_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="236" height="164"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>My Family</strong> (here in Alberta)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5uZRjFdI/AAAAAAAADY0/g8LY8G5iW6g/s1600-h/October%20106%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 106" border="0" alt="October 106" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5vKu_MQI/AAAAAAAADY4/JZmwhyyazwk/October%20106_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>All the Awesome Food I Get to Eat Everyday</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5vq3bViI/AAAAAAAADY8/qpoHx23U7g4/s1600-h/September%20016%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 016" border="0" alt="September 016" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5wLheRhI/AAAAAAAADZA/gkeF9zD5cjA/September%20016_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5wjieNDI/AAAAAAAADZE/jvqNSmTCTJY/s1600-h/September%20023%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 023" border="0" alt="September 023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5xJa-v4I/AAAAAAAADZI/MJ6HFlbPHC4/September%20023_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5xxXq9_I/AAAAAAAADZM/BVQJGmjU46Q/s1600-h/September%20013%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 013" border="0" alt="September 013" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5y_ujxSI/AAAAAAAADZQ/6ce1a3izYo0/September%20013_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5zSnczXI/AAAAAAAADZU/ewL33JCwXcE/s1600-h/September%20012%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 012" border="0" alt="September 012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY5z4hdTII/AAAAAAAADZY/IvYMP5B08IY/September%20012_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY50pHaCPI/AAAAAAAADZc/H6QzXLuTRds/s1600-h/August%20011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="August 011" border="0" alt="August 011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY51BIwvbI/AAAAAAAADZg/iQxHc3f3Uns/August%20011_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY51ipZlJI/AAAAAAAADZk/MUoCS3Uiwl4/s1600-h/August%20015%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="August 015" border="0" alt="August 015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY52HonkFI/AAAAAAAADZo/qOAWc48U184/August%20015_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="181"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>I’m Thankful For: <strong>My Two Job Interviews I have Coming Up</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY52louLtI/AAAAAAAADZs/TwsDw74TMU0/s1600-h/interview%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="interview" border="0" alt="interview" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY53fjK0nI/AAAAAAAADZw/9SDGJ2Jg_Oo/interview_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="301"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.saidaonline.com/en/newsgfx/nervous%20in%20job%20interview-saidaonline.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p>Finally, I’m Thankful For: <strong>My New Blog Friends</strong></p> <p>Over the past year I have met some wonderful people. Whether in person…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY53wdJeBI/AAAAAAAADZ0/RDa2oVCfDjo/s1600-h/March%20012%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="March 012" border="0" alt="March 012" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY54RvOnSI/AAAAAAAADZ4/bnu4aLyJpPI/March%20012_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="200"></a> </p> <p>Through <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HerInnerShine">twitter</a>…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY54xc8AsI/AAAAAAAADZ8/bC5wszurkVQ/s1600-h/twitter-logo%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="twitter-logo" border="0" alt="twitter-logo" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLY55aahnWI/AAAAAAAADaA/nOzwp-m51GI/twitter-logo_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="189"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.cravencc.edu/images/twitter-logo.jpg">(Source)</a></p> <p></p> <p>Or through other blogs. You all have changed my life for the better and I thank you.</p> <p>For all those things and many others…I give thanks.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-38562417628151950192010-10-12T15:01:00.001-06:002010-10-13T15:00:39.665-06:00CSN Stores Love<p>It feels great to be part of the CSN Stores Preferred Bloggers. They have so many wonderful sites that you can buy <a href="http://www.diningroomsdirect.com/">dining sets</a>, cookware and even shoes.</p> <p>Last time I worked with them I did a <a href="http://herinnershine.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-first-giveaway.html">giveaway</a> for a gift certificate to one of their many stores and this time they are giving me the opportunity to review one item from their many stores.</p> <p>They have over 200 online stores with almost any idea you can imagine.</p> <p>Some of my favourites include:</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMqDuCZsI/AAAAAAAADWU/yrfWvitAHEI/s1600-h/apron01%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="apron01" border="0" alt="apron01" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMqjSMBWI/AAAAAAAADWY/nLQYWSJlWSg/apron01_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMrG8TXcI/AAAAAAAADWc/VOd0dXwm3YQ/s1600-h/bedding%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bedding" border="0" alt="bedding" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMrnAthdI/AAAAAAAADWg/prQsYRTuLM0/bedding_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMr9i6OZI/AAAAAAAADWk/sBRVeeMZGMc/s1600-h/food%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="food" border="0" alt="food" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMsEFQteI/AAAAAAAADWo/GGT2eMI1UZs/food_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMsQjAvUI/AAAAAAAADWs/e_y5mkUcfHo/s1600-h/rain%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rain" border="0" alt="rain" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMsx8KrkI/AAAAAAAADWw/j5sEEkBbxis/rain_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMtObnmTI/AAAAAAAADW0/traIbrzcddc/s1600-h/pie%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="pie" border="0" alt="pie" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMtvVLb-I/AAAAAAAADW4/iWMt_6ygwOU/pie_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMtyC4z6I/AAAAAAAADW8/y-_GVozT544/s1600-h/panini%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="panini" border="0" alt="panini" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TLTMuSMMwRI/AAAAAAAADXA/UAY3k541o0U/panini_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> </p> <p>Should I choose a new food processor or maybe some sheets. I still haven’t decided but as soon as I do and have to product in hand be ready for my review.</p> <p>While your here why don’t you show them some love and take a look around a few of their sites. I promise you won’t be sorry.</p> <p>I’ll be back tomorrow with a little Thanksgiving love!</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2389797430675480821.post-50013085861675661722010-10-08T17:51:00.001-06:002010-10-08T17:51:43.746-06:00Farmer’s Market Goodies<p>Today has been a very busy day. It started out as with a trip downtown to meet the hubby for lunch and ended up being almost an all day excursion. </p> <p>After lunch I decided I should head to the police station to get my criminal record check done. This technically doesn’t have to be done until I get a job but since it makes the whole process faster if it’s already done and I was already downtown I figured I’d just head to do it. What a slow process. Not only is there only one place in the city you can get it done so it is always super busy but it also isn’t even in the police station and it took me for ever to find it. </p> <p>After it was finished and I had paid the money the lady tells me that they have to put on it that if my employer wants they can also ask for a check back in Halifax since I have only lived here 2 months. Thanks police! Thanks so much! It might have been nice to know this earlier, plus how am I going to get a check done from Calgary with the Halifax police??? Hopefully it doesn’t turn out to be a problem. </p> <p>After the painful experience I decided to hit up the Farmer’s Market in Calgary. Food always makes everything better, right?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uZBBB07I/AAAAAAAADU4/GoDvCQUiuaQ/s1600-h/October%20013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 013" border="0" alt="October 013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uZ2LJeMI/AAAAAAAADU8/UR1iKgp60j0/October%20013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Although I didn’t take any other pictures while I was there I ended up with a great stash of goodies so I thought I’d share my purchases with you.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uaGcx6KI/AAAAAAAADVA/-iF8PUDfdzo/s1600-h/October%20015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 015" border="0" alt="October 015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uaoa8w0I/AAAAAAAADVE/C6-vwjfkruE/October%20015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Organic Free Range Eggs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ubB45u5I/AAAAAAAADVI/Kte2G78w0mo/s1600-h/October%20017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 017" border="0" alt="October 017" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ubj2esQI/AAAAAAAADVM/Wm3etftbKs8/October%20017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Two very large Honey Crisp Apples. Everyone seems to be taking about these lately so I picked up a couple to see what all the fuss is about. After I try them I’ll let you know if they’re as good as the hype.</p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ucGmpNMI/AAAAAAAADVQ/3LKeYl9WCSY/s1600-h/October%20022%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 022" border="0" alt="October 022" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uchsdwFI/AAAAAAAADVU/gvZ1-zDvTmM/October%20022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> <p>A cucumber and four peppers. Two red, one yellow and one orange. I picked up the two red peppers to stuff this week and the other two are for salads and such.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uc9aOG8I/AAAAAAAADVY/Q0Oaa45vqLE/s1600-h/October%20024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 024" border="0" alt="October 024" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-udfjoI2I/AAAAAAAADVc/w0S3-cNVO6o/October%20024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Brussell sprouts, green beans and baby tomatoes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ueDGqlxI/AAAAAAAADVg/mkZ9Xtbq5NY/s1600-h/October%20027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 027" border="0" alt="October 027" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uexfRRiI/AAAAAAAADVo/Wfz8eand8IM/October%20027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>A bag of BC cranberries.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uffFDe7I/AAAAAAAADVs/g2QbcB4s1mA/s1600-h/October%20028%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 028" border="0" alt="October 028" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ufypUXAI/AAAAAAAADVw/8WmSOAbl5qA/October%20028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Apple Butter. I think I’m most excited about this purchase.</p> <p>In totally I spent about $38. Not bad for all those goodies!!!</p> <p>After I left the Farmer’s Market I found out we’re heading to Banff tomorrow with my step-brother, his wife and my niece and nephew and we’re planning a picnic. Matt and I are in charge of some veggies and fruit so I headed to the closest Co-op to pick up a couple of things to bring with us. I also grabbed some baby carrots, broccoli, and grapes. I figured I’ll cut everything up and make a fruit and veggie plate to go along with the veggie wrap that I’m going to bring with me as well.</p> <p>Today also marked the return of the green smoothie.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ugIYgFiI/AAAAAAAADV0/Gh7vlLHNAxk/s1600-h/October%20007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 007" border="0" alt="October 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ugq3xQ_I/AAAAAAAADV4/PhmT3umIxnE/October%20007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>In the blender went two huge cups of spinach, 1 banana, 1 cup of UVAB, 2 tbsp of flax and ice.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uhAd4mAI/AAAAAAAADV8/hLm7ixfwHzY/s1600-h/October%20012%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 012" border="0" alt="October 012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uhkEhwKI/AAAAAAAADWA/_lhbPkIE8ok/October%20012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>It’s so nice to have these back in my life. I get lazy with using the blender because I makes such a mess but I love them so hopefully you’ll be seeing more of these on the blog.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uiHa2fWI/AAAAAAAADWE/V6FeKvOaw4o/s1600-h/October%20009%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 009" border="0" alt="October 009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-uiuv-maI/AAAAAAAADWI/LpTEt7F6nik/October%20009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Served with 1/2 an English muffin topped with pb and granola for breakfast.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ujInESiI/AAAAAAAADWM/BxOXEC5C_nU/s1600-h/October%20011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="October 011" border="0" alt="October 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ekQvHepeIho/TK-ujrF7gWI/AAAAAAAADWQ/Ijicw_dumA4/October%20011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="364"></a> </p> <p>Well that’s all for me today folks. I’m going to spend the rest of my evening enjoying a glass of wine, baking and catching up on The Vampire Diaries.</p> <p>I want to wish all my fellow Canadian’s out there a very <strong><font color="#ff8000">Happy Thanksgiving</font></strong> and I’ll be back again on Monday.</p> <p>~ Katie :)</p> Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798686373414815681noreply@blogger.com