Ocean Size Love

It's been two and a half months since Alex left for Australia. While most days, weeks even, have flown by without any warning, there are those lonely moments that draw out and feel like eternity. Even though we have our daily emails, phone calls, and video Skype chats, it doesn't compare to curling up side-by-side or sharing our days in person. Alas, despite longing for one another, it's exciting to know that our relationship will be stronger when we're down-under together. I can hardly wait, but am content - and somewhat relieved - to be home this time of year, and for the holidays. Christmas without snow, let alone my friends and family, just wouldn't be the same.

This precious time to myself gives me a chance to regroup, relax, and cook/bake more. I love fall cooking, and wouldn't be able to do so this time of year in Aussie land (there summer is approaching). I'm thankful to taste all four seasons before I depart.

This weekend I cooked up a storm! My kitchen was toasty warm from the oven and my house smelled like sweet butternut squash and cinnamon sticks all weekend long. I also signed up for a vegan 'soups and stews' cooking class at WholeFoods, which takes place in mid-November. I'm excited to learn some new tricks and techniques... perhaps how to easily cut a butternut squash (which would have come in handy yesterday afternoon). Those babies are rock solid, with a thick and stubborn skin to peel! I never thought I'd get to scooping the guts, but I did. Victory.

It cooled down quite a bit last night so I wanted something warm and tummy-satisfying. I absolutely love the apple and squash soup at Fresh (one of my favourite vegetarian/vegan restaurants in Toronto), so I decided to roll up my sleeves and whip up something of my own.

Butternut squash, apple spice, and carrot soup
Inspired by Emily at The Front Burner

Okay, seriously, cubing the butternut squash was a bitch. I even googled "how to cut a butternut squash". My only conclusion was that I need new knives (probably true).

Ingredients:

• 1/2 large white onion
• 1 butternut squash
• 3 long carrots
• 2 organic gala apples (I bet pink lady or honey crisp would be good too)
• 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp cinnamon 
• 1/2 tbsp nutmeg 
• 1-2 small bay leafs 
• 2 tbsp curry powder 
• 1 tbsp EVOO
• 1/4 cup almond or hemp milk (optional) 

Cubing the carrots and apples was a lot easier ;) 

Directions:

Start by peeling/cubing the squash ("how to" directions here), apple, and carrot, and set aside. Chop up your onion and add to a big soup pot, with a little olive oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until soft and golden. Then add your squash/apple/carrot mixture and begin to stir in the veggie broth. Cook and cover for about 10 minutes, then add in your spices! Simmer for another 15-25 minutes. It'll smell incredible right about now. Once your veggies get soft and begin to break down, it's time to blend! It's easiest to use a handheld blender (mine was broken, doh!) or a regular blender. If you're using a regular blender, you may have to do several batches. If it's an older blender, be careful of the hot mixture splattering or damaging your blender. I actually forgot to add the almond milk and it was perfect! 

Once it's all blended up, you'll have something like this. Add a dash of cinnamon on top and enjoy! This soup really hit the spot. Alex, you would have liked this. 

Warm and perfectly in season.

One month-ish to go before Alex is home for the holidays =) Till then, I'm sending an ocean sized love.

[NYC, October, 2009]

[Christmas Eve, 2009]

And it might seem much too far, to get back to where you are

But it's close enough, with an ocean size love

So if you can't reach out to me, send a sign across the sea

And I'll pick it up, with an ocean size love

Special Organic Delivery

Groupon and I became best friends a few weeks ago when the deal of the day was $30 for two 'best of season' produce boxes from Organics Delivered ($79.90 value). Incredible, right?

I jumped on this deal like there was no tomorrow. And I'm so glad I did!

Farm fresh to your door...uh, yes PLEASE!

Fresh lettuce, apples, and kiwi...oh my!

Attack of the swiss chard! This made me happy. My mind immediately sprung to an asian fusion soup or a simple, yet delectable stir fry. I went with the later, and easier option ;)

In total I received (all organic):

• 1 bunch of bananas
• 4 gala apples
• 4 pears
• 6 kiwis 
• 2 avocados
• 1 big bag of carrots
• 1 full sized cauliflower
• 1 full sized brocoli 
• 1 massive bunch of swiss chard
• 1box of mushrooms 
• 2 unknowns

 Behold, the unknowns:

They're kinda cute, no? I have to do some googling to figure out what they are. I think they might be a sour fruit of some kind...any ideas?

My new goodies added to the fruit bowl. Yum.

On average I eat around two to three bananas a day. I add a banana every morning to my oatmeal breakfast and to my post-workout smoothie. Needless to say, I was happy to receive a green batch of organic bananas ;)

Organics Delivered delivered alright! Not only is the produce fresh and abundant, but the delivery was incredibly timely. 

I look forward to my second delivery, next Thursday! 

Loving Yourself

Did you know that 80% of women are dissatisfied with their appearance? The Canadian Mental Health Association reports that 70% of women and 30% of men are "dieting". I suspect it's more. In a society saturated with glossy advertisements, mixed messages of healthy eating, and billion dollar corporations selling "beauty, in a bottle" it can be challenging to love yourself, head-to-toe, for who you really are.

While it should be celebrated everyday, today is officially National Love Your Body Day.

Here is an excerpt from the site:

**

Hollywood and the fashion, cosmetics and diet industries work hard to make each of us believe that our bodies are unacceptable and need constant improvement. Print ads and television commercials reduce us to body parts -- lips, legs, breasts -- airbrushed and touched up to meet impossible standards. TV shows tell women and teenage girls that cosmetic surgery is good for self-esteem. Is it any wonder that 80% of U.S. women are dissatisfied with their appearance?

Women and girls spend billions of dollars every year on cosmetics, fashion, magazines and diet aids. These industries can't use negative images to sell their products without our assistance.

Together, we can fight back.

**

Coming from someone who is learning to relax over a missed gym day and to embrace all change, even if it's through a time of healing, I know it ain't always easy to look in the mirror and say "Why, hello there, I love you". I believe that we, as a collective society, need to empower our own inner beauty in order to empower each other. I believe if we love ourselves we will radiate love to the world.

As a whole, we spend so much time, money, and in some cases surgery, on products and services to improve how we look - a skinner waist line, whiter teeth, or clearer skin - when really it should be to improve how we feel - a healthier approach to beauty and wellness. Until we stop stripping our skin with harsh chemicals, consuming 'calorie burning' drinks, and under-eating, in hopes to look like that famous supermodel, we will neither be happy nor comfortable in our own skin.

A few months ago, I cancelled my subscription to Women's Health Magazine. I wasn't learning anything new and the "skinny tips this" and "loose weight that" stuff started to get annoying. I actually re-tweeted "how about, healthier versions" but got no response.

And so it goes.

I could rant and ramble on this subject until I turn blue in the face, but it's late and I need my beauty/body rest :)

Happy Love Your Body Day!

1. I love my thick and wavy hair. I've never dyed it, and I rarely brush it :s, but I still manage to get complements on it 
2. I love arms and wrists, they're petite yet well defined
3. I love my high-energy!
4. I love my compassion for others, and I strive to reach out to others each and every day
5. I love the skin I'm in - it's mine, and it's unique

What do you love? 

Whatever you love, ensure you love it for today, tomorrow, and always. 

What are you thankful for?

I'm thankful to be home for the Thanksgiving long weekend.

I'm thankful to have my best friend, Nadine, in my life. Nadine and I walked almost 18k today. We both took some amazing shots along the way.

I'm thankful to be healthy and happy.

I'm thankful to see, hear, touch, and taste the four seasons. 

I'm thankful for the love and support of my family. 

I'm thankful for my boyfriend who loves and cares about me.

I'm thankful for all my life experiences. 

There are no words...

After our walk it got a little serious in the kitchen. I made a vegan Thanksgiving meal for three (Dad, Brother, and Me...my mum is away on a cruise with her sisters!) 

I'm thankful for the warm food on my table.

I started by making a vegan pumpkin "cheese" dip.

Oo baby, this dip was ahmazing!!! It was just the right amount of spice and everything nice. I will definitely be making this again.

I'm thankful for this raw vegan pumpkin pie...

Yes, it got a little experimental.

Raw vegan pumpkin pie

Raw pumpkin pie crust:

• 2 cups pecans (I've read that walnuts can also work)
• 1/2 cup soaked dates (with water)
• 1 tsp carob powder (thought I'd add a hint of coco-esq flavour) 

Blend together in a food processor or high speed blender. Once mixed, distribute evenly into the bottom of a pie plate. 

Pie filling:

• 2 cups shredded pumpkin 
• 1 cup soaked dates
• 2-3 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground (or fresh minced) ginger 
• 1 tsp nutmeg 
• 1 tsp coconut oil 
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 almond milk (or water) to help blend

Blend until smooth and creamy! Pour into crust, then chill in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. Viola!

Is it possible to OD on pumpkin? =)

Warm sweet potato, chick pea parsley salad.

Fresh rainbow carrots, straight from the St. Lawrence farmers market.

Everything was incredibly delicious!

 

I'm thankful to be full, nourished, and full of love.  

There is so much beauty in the world...

...what are you thankful for?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nourishment

As the days become shorter and sun begins to hibernate, I find myself turning to warm and hearty meals. Instead of my go-to spinach salad or cool buckwheat noodles, I've been cooking-up hot chilis, roasted veggies, and chunky soups. Lately, I've also had less time for the gym. My typical everyday workout routine has scaled back to three or four days a week. At first I was perplexed, and a little frazzled, over the matter. I kept thinking to myself, why wasn't I in the mood for my raw kale salad or cold green smoothie? Why don't I want to add cucumbers to my water? And damnit, why can't I find more time for the gym?! It may sound silly, but a moment of vanity crept in and I found myself worrying about my physiques tone and definition. I felt like I had gained a little weight, as if I might be eating too much or working out too little.

For those who know me, I am petitie. I have a small frame (my ex figure-skating coach is still mourning the day I retired my skates, many years ago) so weight has never been an issue for me. Sure, I put on a couple pounds in my freshman year, but they went straight to my bum and bust; and quickly shed once the first semester was over. Like many most all? women, I care about my body. I don't just care how I look, but how I feel. I care how I feel when I wake up in the morning, after a workout, or after a big meal. I take note of these feelings and seek regular guidance from a wonderful team of health experts (to whom I am forever grateful). I should probably mention that I also get excited over a new bottle of vitamins...and that everyone at Noah's, Pure + Simple, and my naturopathic clinic know me by name. In a nut shell, both my health and wellbeing are a top priority in my life.

But with weight on my mind, I have to ask myself.. when does too much become too little?

Autumn literally suggests a downward movement (fall), a time for gathering and harvest. Ezra Pound - poet in the modernist movement - refers to Autumn as the "sweet sadness"; sweet because Autumn has its own beauty, yet sad because it's the end of something else. According to Ayurvedic medicine, the cold, dry, and movement (wind) of Autumn characterizes the Vata dosha. To balance, or re-balance, Vata it's important to apply moisture (warming oils, like sesame), apply heat (warming foods and clothing) and to slow down (prepare for hibernation).

Image Source

It's no wonder I don't feel like adding sliced cucumbers to my water or whipping up an ice cold smoothie. My body has been sending me signals to warm up and slow down, which is a good thing. Above all, my ever evolving transformation to optimum health has led me to nourish my body.

After a reaffirming appointment with my naturopath last night, I realize that these changes are both vibrant and wholesome. My naturopath pointed out that such nourishment is vital, especially thinking long-term when I someday hope to bare a child. I am a woman, not a machine. While exercise is still important (and a priority in my life) it's OK to miss a gym day. Listening to my body is more important than pushing it. Yes, I've put on exactly 2 lbs, but I've also regulated my cycle after going off the pill and I've cleansed from a terrible reaction. I've been sleeping like a baby and waking up peacefully in the morning. My breath is clear and pure, compared to 8 months ago when I battled with allergies. I am happy and bursting with energy.

The way I see it, I haven't just gained a measly 2 lbs, I've gained a new perspective and inner balance. I've gained a lot.

As I sit comfortably with my banana bread tea from DavidsTea (favourite tea of the season) I can't help but feel proud, full, and nourished.

Image source

Sometimes we are unable to look within ourselves to understand what's really on the surface. Sometimes we try to hold onto something, or someone, and squeeze it tight so it can never be taken away or shared. Sometimes we fear the worst, and sometimes we don't embrace the change that stands before us.

I'm letting it go. I'm letting go of the fact that I've gained a marvelous 2 lbs and I'm reaffirming that I am a happy, healthy, and beautiful woman. I hope you can too.

Happy Autumn!

You got to love yourself,
If you want somebody else to love you
You’ve got to love yourself,
You’ve got to reach inside,
If you’re ever gonna find someone
To love you
You got to love yourself

This post is dedicated to my naturopath.

Self Creation

I felt strange, and a little sad, today. After an energetic morning and good day at the office I decided to walk home (approximately 7.5K according to Google Maps). All the way down Yonge street cars were stuck in rush hour traffic, while I was breezing past without any rush whatsoever. It was warm and the air was crisp, it was a stunning October day.

I'm not sure if it was Neil Young's "Heart of Gold" playing on my iPod or the fact that I love this time of year so damn much, but I began to feel incredibly sentimental. My strides were strong, but my heart felt heavy. As I passed Mount Pleasant Cemetery all I could see was the leaves - burnt mustard and burgundy wine, they were overwhelming - and as soon as my iPod shuffled to Coldplay's "Lost" I suddenly felt chilled and alone. I didn't feel sad in a bad or negative way, I simply felt the need to reflect on my day, week, and past month. In doing so feelings of loneliness passed through me - a wave of emotion.

The months of both August and September were full of positive self transformation. I've been counting my blessings, big and small, one by one; but today, on my walk home, my heart filled with love and then longing. I walked all the way home, breathing deep and admiring the colours. I noticed a flower shop had pumpkins in their window display and a group of runners were already sporting their gloves and hats. In watching everything around me, I realized that I really miss walking hand-in-hand with the person closest to my heart.

En route I stopped at one of my favourite stationary stores to pick-up some new 'thank you' cards. As I leafed through the cards and embroidered paper, I gravitated toward a black card with thick white lettering. The card read as follows:

It's a myth that time heals. Time heals nothing. It's what we do with the time - the choices we make in the time, the people we surround ourselves with, the life we create and share. The love in our hearts and hope in our minds, at any time, can heal, create, inspire and change almost anything..you just have to take the time to realize it. Look at yourself, and the faces of others..stop to see all the possibilities - open yourself up to this life and say, "I'm not too busy."


My eyes filled with tears and I was flooded with happiness. A rush of emotion overcame me, and I bought the card immediately. I smiled knowing that because I am so open I am able to feel, heal, create, inspire and therefore, change almost anything. I just have to realize it. I reminded myself that it's okay to feel lonely once and a while, because I am not a superhuman. 

By the time I got home my hands were chilled and I was absolutely starving, naturally. I was in the mood for something warm, hearty, and flavourful. After reading Kristen's latest blog post earlier today I was inspired to eat something "un-raw" and nourishing. After evaluating both my fridge and cupboard I decided on a big pot of vegan chili. And let me just say, it really really hit the spot.

Warm Autumn Vegan Chili

Adapted from Angela's delicious vegan chili

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1.5 cup fresh mushrooms
• 1 cup carrots
• 1 can organic kidney beans
• 1 can organic chick peas
• 1 can Eden no-salt diced tomatoes w/ basil (with juice)
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced 
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 3 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder 
• 4 tsp ground pepper
• 2 tsp oregano 
• 2 tsp lime 
• Angela's secret ingredient... 2 tsp chia seeds !!!! 

Directions:

In a large pot add olive oil, garlic, onion and red pepper; stir until soft. Then mix in carrots, beans, diced tomatoes, and chia seeds! Finally, add all the seasoning, stir, and simmer for 30-45 minutes (the longer the better). For garnish add a sprig or two of cilantro. Simple, no?

This warm and hearty chili was to die for. To improve this dish for next time I'll ensure to chop the carrots (as opposed to using shredded carrots..duh, Jess) and add more mushrooms (they shrink so tiny!) as well as a little more garlic and cumin. I love cumin, a lot. Cumin is known for digestive disorders as well as its antiseptic properties. All in all, what an amazing feel-good dish. 


After cleaning up the kitchen and talking to the one I both love and miss so much, I curled up in bed with a big warm blanket and pillows galore. I'm about to watch The Family Stone with Sarah Jessica Parker and Rachel McAdams. Fingers crossed that it's good!


Nighty night <3
**
It's a myth that time heals. Time heals nothing. It's what we do with the time - the choices we make in the time, the people we surround ourselves with, the life we create and share. The love in our hearts and hope in our minds, at any time, can heal, create, inspire and change almost anything..you just have to take the time to realize it. Look at yourself, and the faces of others..stop to see all the possibilities - open yourself up to this life and say, "I'm not too busy."
**



UPDATE - The vegan chili is amazing cold (I had some for lunch today) and The Family Stone was not a good movie.