Havens Mommy

Clean it Green

2009-05-22T18:38:00.000-07:00

Whether you're doing it for the environment or to save a little cash or both. The hype is to go GREEN and here's one way you can join the crowd. I try to make cleaning as fun as I possibly can that way, I don't dread it when it needs to be done. The essential oils help to boost my mood with the added bonus of keeping all the chemical garbage out of our home. They not only smell so yummy but have wonderful antibacterial/anti fungal/disinfectant properties as well. Steer clear of toxic products they can lead to all kinds of allergies and health conditions. When all is said and done, I must say "A Clean house is a Happy house." Its really as simple as it sounds too!

Floor Cleaner: I love Dr. Bronner's Castile liquid soap.(Now available at Target in the beauty section with other wonderful natural and organic products) I usually buy the unscented and use in my baby wipes but it also comes in great scents with pure essential oils. You can even brush your teeth with this stuff. I mix about 1tbsp with some water in a bucket and then add 1/2 cup of vinegar and whichever *essential oil I'm in the mood for. Then I cut up two cloth rags from old shirts. After I sweep the floors, I put on some tunes and kick off my socks and skate around on the rags until the floor is sparkly clean.
* I use "heart song" or "sunburst" from butterflyexpress.org

Carpet Cleaner: Choose any size container and mix 2 cups of Baking Soda with 8-10 drops of essential oil of choice. (I love peppermint, mostly because I am terrified of spiders(also works for ants) and this is a great one for repelling them.) Then sprinkle onto carpet and vacuum up. It leaves the whole house smelling wonderful and deodorizes the carpet.
* Also try putting a few drops of essential oil on a small cloth and placing inside your bagless vacuum cleaner compartment, this will also make the house smell fresh as you vacuum.

Windows/Mirrors Spray: Mix equal parts of water and vinegar. Then spray and wipe clean with newspaper for a streak free view.

Room Freshener Spray: Fill a spray bottle with water and add 10-12 drops of *essential oil. It freshens/deodorizes the room or (bathroom at our home, we keep this one under the sink) It can also disinfect the air(depending on the essential oil you choose) if someones been sick so we don't spread any sick bugs to anyone else.
* I use an essential oil blend form butterflyexpress.org called "holiday spirit" or "deliverance"
or "purify"

Fabric Sheet: I love to freshen my clothes with my own concontion of essential oils. I use a natural cotton cloth with a few drops of what smeels good and toss it in the dryer with my laundry.
*Lavender is my favorite!!

Toliet bowls: Sprinkle with baking soda and scrub with toliet brush.

Showers & tubs: Mix baking soda and liquid laundry detergent(I use earth friendly products brand lavender scent) until you have paste consistency(similar to soft scrub at the store) then srub-a-dub that dirty bathroom tub!

( I order my soaps from Vitacost it's a great online store for earth friendly products at a great price with only $4.99 shipping rate on any size order)

You're my Sugar Girl

2009-05-18T16:02:00.000-07:00

Thinking about a night of treating yourself to some pampering.... go on, you deserve it! Slip into your robe and slippers and enjoy this sweet treat. Its so good you may feel somewhat guilty.

Brown Sugar Almond Face Scrub

2 tbsp Ground Almonds
(Grind in blender or food processor)
2 tsp Brown Sugar
2 tbsp Aloe Vera Gel
1 tsp Lemon Juice

Mix ingredients in a small bowl until you have a thick paste. Add more almonds to thicken or try adding ground rolled oats. Gently massage in a circular motion. Leave on for 2-4 minutes and rinse with warm water.
*Ground nuts polish and smooth the complexion helping to nourish dry skin with the added bonus of helping to eliminate blemishes.
*Brown Sugar gently exfoliates and helps to remove the dead skin. This will make your skin feel smooth and rejuvenated.
*Aloe Vera is very soothing and hydrates the skin(fresh is best, look for least amount of added ingredients when buying)
*Lemon Juice has antibacterial properties and will help keep those wrinkles at bay.
(Squeeze it from a fresh organic lemon)

Eat it or scrub it......

2009-05-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

Didn't finish breakfast? Try this super dooper face scrub to start the day. Oatmeal is soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties for the skin. Yogurt cools and is hydrating.
Your face will thank you!

OATMEAL & YOGURT FACE SCRUB

INGREDIENTS:
2 tsp ground, uncooked rolled oats (grind in blender or food processor for fine powder consistency, if you don't grind it can irritate and scratch the skin)

1/4 cup plain yogurt (organic would be best)

Mix together all ingredients in small mixing bowl. Apply to face and neck for 1-2 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Mmmm...Blueberry Almond Muffins

2009-05-15T15:09:00.000-07:00

When Adam and I decided to make some major changes and implement a "Vegan" diet, I felt like I stepped into an unknown world of ...what do I eat? I came across some really great cookbooks "How it all Vegan" and "The Garden of Vegan" by Tanya Barnard & Sarah Kramer. (Caution:It's a bit edgy, but extremely simple to understand) They were really helpful in making the transition into the "Veganism"(I think that's a word!!) Anyway, to make a long story short.... We love trying new recipes from our cookbooks. We love the Blueberry Muffin Recipe and we've given it our own touch -- almonds. Haven's super helpful when mommy cooks she loves to put the muffin papers in the pan and she gets to lick the bowl!! (No eggs, so no worries:) Eat 'em up, yum yum!!

BlueBerry Almond Muffins

1 Cup Soymilk (milk substitute)
1 Cup Rolled Oats
1 Cup Flour (I use whole wheat)
*1/4 Cup Wheat Germ
1 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
1/2 tsp Salt (I use Sea Salt)
Egg Replacer, equal to 1 egg
( I use 1/4 cup applesauce or 1/2 banana mashed)
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
1/2 Cup Dry Sweetner (I use pure cane sugar)
1 Cup fresh or frozen blueberries
*1/2 tsp Almond Extract
*chopped sliced almonds as much as desired

Preheat oven to 400. In a medium bowl, stir together the soy milk and rolled oats and set aside. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and wheat germ. Stir in the egg replacer, oil,sweetner and add the oat mixture. Then I add the almond extract and sliced almonds. Gently stir in the blueberries (do not overmix) and spoon into muffin pan (lightly oiled if not using muffin papers) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Makes 12 regualr sized muffins.

*Check out vegweb.com to find other great vegan/vegetarian recipes, link on the right

Clean Sweep

2009-05-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

"Spring" is a time to clean out the dusty corners of life and let the sun shine in. What about a bit of detoxifying on the inside too? Over time waste accumulates in those corners of the body. I've had lots of questions about cleansing and detoxing. Here's some answers and guidelines to follow.

Is your body becoming toxic? Signs your body might be telling you it's had enough:

Headaches/Back and joint aches
Respiratory problems
Food and environmental sensitivities
Poor digestion
Brittle hair and nails
Weight gain (unexplained over 10lbs)

**Please use caution before doing any kind of a detox. If you are pregnant or nursing, or if you have any serious health conditions, consult your physician first.

THREE DAY JUICE FAST

What you will need:

* 2 Quarts Prune Juice ( I like the California Sweet brand you can find
it at Smith's or just any brand that doesn't have added ingredients)
* 9 oz Extra Virgin Olive Oil
* 3 Gallons Juice of Choice only choose one and use that for the entire
three days (Apple, Grape, Carrot, Tomato))
(I use R.W. Knudsen organic apple, but you could make your own
in a juicer or vita mix, whatever is easier)
* 3 Gallons Water (Distilled is best or Reverse Osmosis)

Steps:

-- Each morning drink 16 oz Prune Juice (Drink more throughout the
day if you feel constipated)

-- Following the Prune Juice (1/2 hr after), drink 8 oz. Juice of
Choice (apple, carrot,grape,tomato, remember only choose one)

-- Following Juice (1/2 hr after), drink 8 oz Water

-- Take 1-2 TBSP Olive Oil three times a day (I usually do this at meal
times I consider it my food) (If a TBSP is too hard, just take as much as you can)

You will be rotating the juice and water every 1/2 hr for the entire
day and follow this for each day.

Depending on what juice you choose you can eat a fruit/veggie that
corresponds, around the evening time.....i.e. apple juice eat 1
apple, carrot juice eat 1 carrot

You'll be in the bathroom quite a bite the first day so keep that in
mind.... If you keep up on the juice and water each 1/2 hr. you
really shouldn't feel hungry but at night you'll be
feeling tired. The second day is usually the hardest because you'll
start to feel weak, but if you can just stay focused and get through
it, then the last day you'll know you can do it! The fourth day be sure
and keep the food light and still drink plenty of fluids. Food will
taste so good!! I really noticed a difference in how I felt after and
it was worth it.

This cleanse should flush 3 gallons of toxins from your system!!!

Eating lots of fresh fruits/veggies are a great way to
keep the body cleansing. Let me know how it goes.

Good Luck and Happy Fasting!!!

Benefits to expect:
- Energy level is increased
- Less cravings for sweets and fats
- Improved digestion
- Weight loss ( a few pounds)
- A fresh start to change bad habits

*Info gathered from Linda Page's "Healthy Living" and Dr Christopher's Three Day Juice Fast

No gobble

2008-12-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

I really wanted to post this recipe even though it's now too late for serving at your Thanksgiving feast. It's a great recipe and maybe you can try it for Christmas or save it for next year. It turns out more like a tofurkey loaf (meat loaf) but it still takes the place of the turkey on my plate. If you're still wondering what on earth is a tofurkey --- its when tofu is used to create a substitute turkey. Maybe you've seen them in the stores and they do resemble more of a turkey but hey its always better homemade anyway, right? Try it and let me know what you think.

TOFURKEY

3 c onion (diced)

1 1/2 c celery (diced)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

2 15 oz Firm Tofu

2 c Cashews

1 c water

2 Tbsp Arrowroot powder or potato/corn starch

1 tsp Celery seed

1/2 tsp dried Sage, Thyme, Marjoram

2-3 Tbsp Soy sauce (I use Bragg's liquid aminos)

Sea salt and Poultry Seasoning to taste

Saute onions,celery and garlic in olive oil. Crumble tofu in med mixing bowl . Grind cashews in blender or food processor. Add cashew powder to tofu. In separate bowl mix starch and water, then add to tofu. Combine the rest of ingredients and mix everything together. Pour into a greased loaf pan or 9x13 dish. Cook at 350 for 1 hr or until light brown on top.

* Freeze tofu the night before. Place tofu cube in freezer bag . To thaw; place bag in a bowl of hot water. Squeeze out any excess water before crumbling.

Serve with gravy!! Makes great leftovers for sandwiches.

Do You do it To?

2008-10-02T15:22:00.000-07:00

Haven's reached that age where she wants what mommy has...even though I try to distract her attention with some of her favorite things, she doesn't go for it and is still very determined to have her way. I've done my best at not giving in but every once in awhile I do.

My sister told me about an episode of Oprah where Dr Oz talked about the dangers of cell phones being used by children. There is just not enough info and we really don't know what effects they might be having us....so watch the video and educate yourself then do what you feel is best.

Tummy Trouble

2008-09-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

Every mom has or will face their little one having an upset tummy. I've had my turn and let me say it was not fun. My poor little girl was screaming and I felt helpless but tried to think fast...what do I do. If you haven't heard me say it before I'll say it again...Every mother should own a bottle of Gripe water(Baby's Bliss) it's a combination of ginger and fennel and works wonders for colic,hiccups and teething or just plain fussy babies. I would also recommend trying Dr. Christophers Kid-e-Col it has catnip if you need something a little stronger. If you're a nursing mom you could try drinking some tea yourself. Ginger, fennel, catnip or chamomile tea any of these could be beneficial for a little tummy.

In addition: I started this entry and now a week later I am putting some finishing touches on it. I want to share so much more and seem to leave things undone. My goal is to accomplish each task so here it goes....

I have found a few other little lifesavers in my time of need. Try a tummy rub. The intestines kind of make an upside down u so start rubbing from the bottom left or right and across just above the belly button. I like to use an essential oil called "Inside Out" mixed with some almond oil. It smells really good and helps in a hurry. There is also wonders in a soothing bath.

What's MAMBY?

2008-09-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Some of you that frequent this blog may wonder what happened to Haven's Mommy....I've taken a new title is all. Adam helped me come up with this new look and logo. ((If you haven't seen the rest of his work, here is my plug for my talented husband (www.falldowntree.blogspot.com) or visit the Adam's store link on the right.)) Anyway, I've decided to really focus on natural products/info for mommies raising babies in what's become a very unnatural society. Although, I do feel we are slowly becoming aware and the word is spreading to make changes in the way we live. It's all a matter of choice. I will share my knowledge(I will be the first to admit that I do not know everything and am constantly leaning more) and hope that you will take it and add to it. Feel free to share what you know as well. Thanks to all of you that ask me questions and help motivate me to do what I love doing.

Health ~ Happiness ~ Love

Colors of the Rainbow

2008-08-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Growing up my mom always wanted to add more color to the dish she was preparing. It really did make it look more mouthwatering. I mentioned in the last post about a book titled "Naturally Healthy First Foods." I loved that the author broke foods down to colors and encouraged the reader to fill their shopping cart with a "Colorful Mosaic of Foods." It was helpful when shopping to try to pick something from each group. Here's the breakdown:

RED

beets tomatoes strawberries watermelon cherries raspberries apples

ORANGE

carrots sweet potatoes oranges squash peaches yams mango

YELLOW

corn bananas pineapple yellow bell peppers yellow plums

GREEN

broccoli cucumber green pepper zucchini peas avocado leafy greens

BLUE

blueberries grapes raisins figs

PURPLE

plums blackberries eggplant

WHITE

onions cauliflower garlic parsnips

First comes Parenting

2008-08-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

Its funny how once you find out you're expecting you begin to think/imagine about all the things you're going to do once you have a child. What style of parenting methods you want to follow. All the choices you want to make for this little person since they will totally depend on YOU. It can be a bit overwhelming. My husband and I talked about this lots and although it was easier then to say "I will for sure do this".... I am proud of the major decisions I've made and have stuck too. I don't by any means think my way is the best and only way. Parenting is personal and only a mother/father have the intuition of what is best for their child. The first child is usually a good practice run on what works and of course that will probably change with each individual child. I guess "Practice makes Perfect" or at least parenting somewhat easier. Maybe that's why my parents ended up with 6 kids. Either way its had its tough moments(and I can only imagine many more) but also some very sweet, beautiful ones too!

I thought it might be fun to share what resources I got the most out of.

Dr. Sears Attachment Parenting/Baby Book

I loved both of these. It made sense to me

and was what I felt was right for me and my baby.He talks about the B's of Attachment Parenting and I really have tried to follow them.

BREASTFEED BONDING BABYWEARING BEDDING CLOSE TO BABY BALANCE

When Haven was getting close to introducing solids, I really wanted to only give her the best healthy whole foods. I truly believe that so much of our health is a reflection of what we eat. I started looking for books on making your own baby food. I love this one by Jacqueline Rubin. She's really helfpul in getting you started and includes "knowledge about foods" a "how to" even down to a "schedule to follow." It's made it so incredibly helpful in doing it myself. I think this book and a baby food mill is all you need to get started.

The 6 month mile marker

2008-05-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

Our little sweetie hit the BIG 6 months mark!! I really can't believe how fast little ones grow. She is now a whopping 16lbs and is happy and teething. I thought it might be fun to make a list of our top picks of items we could not have lived without during those first 6 months. Oh the joys of being a parent! We are loving every minute. Let me know if you have any favorites that have been your lifesavers.

In no particular order:

~ Gripe Water (Baby's Bliss)

~Thermal Swaddle blankets

~ Binky

~Burt's Bees Baby Care

~Seventh Generation Diapers

~ Sling

~Caldrea "Sweet Pea" Laundry Detergent

~Bebe Pod (Thanks Bre)

~Little Einsteins "Mirror Me" book

~ Nipple butter (Earth Mama Angel Baby)

~Nursing cover
~Burp cloths/Bibs
~ "Lavender" and "Baby Me" essential oils
~Bouncy chair
~2 cuddly pink blankies
~Grover and giraffe plush toys
~Running water from the sink
~Water bottles
~Hands to suck on
~Our arms to hold her
~Our legs to walk and bounce her

In the mood for...

2008-05-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

I usually crave things that I have never made before so I always visit veg web for recipes. It's one of my favorite recipe websites. People leave comments after they've made them to say whether or not the recipe was any good or let you know about any alterations they made. It also has some homemade household recipes too! If you haven't visited this site please follow the link on the right. We were craving Quiche the other day so I tried this recipe from VegWeb. You could add any veggies you want and it was pretty tasty.

QUICHE

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup margarine( I used Earth Balance)
2 tablespoons cold water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 package frozen spinach or 1 bunch fresh
3/4 package firm tofu (play with the quantity)
1 to 1 1/2 cups of soy milk
3/4 package frozen corn, or its fresh equivalent
onion medium sized, portabello mushroom (optional, but yummy)
oregano, sage
salt and pepper

Directions:

Mix the first 6 ingredients to form a pastry dough. This doesn't roll well, but it makes a great pie crust. Once its mixed well, pat evenly into a greased pie pan and bake at 350 degrees for ten minutes. Prick the bottom before putting in the oven.

Sauté the onions, finely chopped. Add the portabello mushroom, thinly sliced when the onions are transparent. Add plenty of oregano, enough salt and a good quantity of pepper. (I sprinkled some curry powder and added a teaspoon of vegan Worcestershire sauce for the heck of it). Then add the spinach.. you can also add some pine nuts/walnuts for an interesting texture and flavor.

Remember to take the crust out of the oven. In a blender, add the soymilk, tofu (crumbled a bit) and the corn and blend into a thick puree/paste. Play with the quantities to get it to a consistency a little thicker than cake batter. Stir this into the veggie mix and taste for flavors (to get the traditional yellowish egg yolk color, add some turmeric). Add this to the pie crust and bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes. Note* I like more filling than pie crust, so I tend to overfill. Reduce quantity of spinach and the rest if you want... serve hot.

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 1 hour

Can't catch me

2008-05-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

It happened, our 5 months of wellness finally caught up to us. Haven came down with her very 1st cold. It's so sad to listen to her trying to breathe through her congested little nose and cry with the phlegm gurgling in the back of her throat....if only I could take it all away. I am amazed that through it all she has still managed to keep a smiley happy face. I thought I'd share with the other blogger mommies out there what we've been doing to find relief.

Dr Christopher's Kid-e-Well drops: We are a huge fan of these. Its good stuff for little ones and a great alternative to Tylenol. Its a an herbal combination to help the body fight with its one immune system....it doesn't just cover up the symptoms. I give her about 1/4 of the recommended dose twice a day, because she's just little. She doesn't quite like the taste so I mix it with her gripe water.

*FYI Gripe water is ginger and fennel and has a sweet taste. It helps soothe tummy aches,colic,discomfort from teething and hiccups. Its a must have for all households with new little ones.

Butterfly Express "Breezy" Essential Oil Blend: This oil blend is awesome for opening up nasal passage ways and finding relief from aches associated from colds and flu. I love the smell too!! I mix 2-3 tbsp of almond oil with one drop "Breezy". Then I use it as a massage oil on her back and feet. I'll do this in the morning after she gets dressed and at night when she is going to bed.

Humidifier: I have a cool mist humidifier that I add 10-13 drops of "Breezy"too. I turn it on whenever she is sleeping (naps and bedtime). The moisture and oil in the air really help open up her nasal passageways and help her breathe and sleep better.

Steamy bathroom: The steam is just another way to help open everything up and keep the air moist so she can breathe.

Lots of mama's milk, cuddling, kisses and sunshine!! I know its all I can do and that she'll get better!!

Strawberry Fields Forever

2008-04-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

It must be getting close to or now is the time for strawberries. I am not sure, but one thing I do know is that I am a berry junkie. I love how I can get my sweet fix without feeling guilty. I recently did a no sugar fast for two weeks. I don't know if I noticed a huge change but I did realize how much I crave sweets. It was harder than I thought but do able. I enjoyed a strawberry trifle dessert last night at a pampered chef party and I've had strawberries on my mind all day. So, if you're like me and could probably eat a whole container in one or two sittings here's another idea for putting those berries to good use.

(*FYI: Berries contain high amount of pesticides try to buy organic when possible or use food wash to clean.)

STRAWBERRY HAND AND FOOT SCRUB

6-8 Strawberries

2 tablespoons Apricot Oil (you may substitute olive oil)

1 teaspoon of coarse salt, such as Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt

Mix together all ingredients, massage into hands(arms) and feet (legs), rinse, and pat dry.

Strawberries contain a natural fruit acid which aids in exfoliation.This fruit also contains several polyphenols that have high antioxidant capacity. They are also high in Vitamin C which is also a potent antioxidant. You'll find exfoliation to be revitalizing and energizing.

Earache Earache go away.....

2008-04-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

{Amy this post is for your poor little ear and its ache }

A year ago I came down with the dreaded earache. Adam and I were so excited for our family trip to Hawaii when we both came down with colds the week we going to leave. We fought them pretty hard and dosed up on almost everything (Vit. C, Echinacea, Zinc, Airborne, etc.) and we were feeling somewhat better the day we going to fly out. My ear had some congestion settling in it and the plane ride made it even worse. When we landed in Hawaii it was plugged and I couldn't hear. It was miserable. If that wasn't bad enough, it then began to ache and it was awful. Needless to say, I managed to get through it with hot water, a bulb syringe and lots of vitamins. We had an awesome time in Hawaii. So for any of you that have ever had an earache hopefully this will help you too!!

FYI* Americans spend 8 billion dollars a year on treatment for ear infections

Chronic ear infections in children could be linked to dairy and sugary foods so eliminate those from the diet (Nursing moms should consider this too if baby is prone to ear infections)

~Drink lots of liquids to keep secretions thinned. Try chamomile tea to calm throbbing. Use ice packs to relieve pain. Increase Vit. E intake to help with drainage

~ Use an onion for fast relief and infection fighting. Press out and strain onion juice onto a small cotton plug . Place in ear canal opening (Do not push down into canal)

~Aromatherapy ear massage. Add to 1 oz vitamin E oil, 6 drops chamomile oil, 3 drops tea tree oil, 3 drops lavender oil. Rub around back of ear and massage neck.

~ Garlic oil. Chop up a fresh clove of garlic and allow to sit at room temperature for 15-20mins. Then place in 2 cups or so of olive oil. Allow to soak for up to 3hrs or more. Strain garlic pieces. Place oil container in a bowl of warm water until oil is warm. Use 3 drops of oil in ear to soften ear wax. Then fill up sink with warm water. Tilt head to one side so the ear is over the sink of water. Use a bulb syringe to squirt water into the ear and allow water and wax to drain out. Garlic is nature's antibiotic and can help fight infection. Press firmly but gently behind, then in front of the ear. Pull lobe up an down to work wax out. Fold ear in half and open and fold repeatedly for circulation.
(Check a health food store for other ear oils)

~Boost immune system with any of the following Zinc, Vit. C, Acidophilus, Echinacea or liquid chlorophyll in water.

(Linda Page's Healthy Healing 12th Edition)

*Disclaimer: when dealing with medical issues always seek the advice of a medical professional

Fabulous Food!!

2008-04-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Another night of searching through the fridge and cupboards to come up with a meal that was suitable for what was left in the house has ended in success. Since, I committed to trying a new recipe a week, I flipped through the vegetarian times mag to see what might work with what I had. Tofu Frittata was a suggestion for a brunch menu but I think it was a better option for dinner. Maybe because that's the only meal I feel like taking time to actually cook. We loved this one! Give it a try. I know that tofu is a little intimidating if you've never used it before. It really takes using it in the right way to find a love for it. Trust me biting into a block of plain tofu would for sure leave a "bad taste" for it. It really is a amazing vegetarian source and this dish can prove it.

TOFU FRITTATA WITH ZUCCHINI AND ONION

2 tbs olive oil

1 small red onion, diced (3/4 cup)

2 small carrots, diced (1 cup)

5 green onions, chopped (3/4 cup)

1 small zucchini, diced (3/4 cup)

1 - 12oz pkg extra firm tofu, drained (I like mori-nu Silken)

3 tbs grated mozzarella (vegan)

3 tbs low sodium soy sauce

3-6 tomatoes, sliced

1. Preheat oven to 375. Coat 10 in. casserole dish with cooking spray.

2. Heat olive oil in skillet. Saute' red onion until soft. Add carrots, green onions and zucchini and saute' until all vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

3. Puree tofu, mozzarella and soy sauce in blender or food processor, until smooth and thick. Stir tofu mixture into vegetable mixture and spoon into casserole dish. Arrange tomato slices on top of frittata. Bake 40-45 mins. or until top is firm to the touch. Let cool before serving. Enjoy !!

What's on YOUR Life List?

2008-04-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

I am a total "list" person. After my baby was born and life was getting back to usual(i.e.no more meals being brought in, no more visitors and daddy was back to work) I felt my world become a bit overwhelming. I am what my husband refers to as a "busy body". I like to get things done. It was hard for me to think of all the stuff I wasn't accomplishing in a day. So with some encouragement, I started making my lists of "to-do's". I would write down even the simplest acts like eat breakfast. There is something about checking off an item on my list that brings great satisfaction.

When I picked up this months issue of body+soul and saw this article I decided it was for me. I haven't seen the movie but I think the "The Bucket List" is about doing just that.
Make yourself a Life List. It's simple. Start by jotting down your life goals or dreams. While on my mission my comp gave me a blank notebook for writing all the things I wanted to someday have or accomplish. It's fun to open it once in a while and see what I still need to do or what I've already done. If you ever feel like your life is out of balance. Try making your everyday list to include those areas you want to focus on. An example could be... I need more family time... so that day my list might include scheduling in a visit to the park or watching a movie together. Each day is an opportunity to write your own happy ending:) Whatever your list includes whether its a short term or long term goal just have fun. Its your LIFE!!

For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin-real life, but there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one.

HAPPINESS IS A JOURNEY NOT A DESTINATION

[SOUZA]

Put it all together!!

2008-03-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our great friends (Kirk & Marcy) we now receive Vegetarian Times magazine. I love to cook and enjoy trying new recipes. It isn't always an easy task to accomplish with a new little one who wants to share the kitchen (or at least have me hold her) So, Adam and I usually double team dinner. My goal is to try a new recipe each week. If it gets a thumbs down, you won't see them on the blog. This one definitely got a thumbs up!! It has an Indian flavor and made plenty to have leftovers the next day. Serve with a side romaine/spinach salad and a slice of artisan bread and you'll feel like a gourmet cook. Give it a try and leave a comment so I can hear your results.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CHICKPEA STEW WITH COUSCOUS

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium carrot, diced (3/4 cup)
1 small onion, diced (1 cup)
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 tbsp whole cumin seeds (powdered works too!!)
1 bay leaf, crumbled
2 16-oz cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained( a.k.a. garbanzo beans)
1 32-oz container butternut squash soup
1 1/2 cups couscous (I buy the Near East brand and follow directions on box)

1. Heat oil in saucepan. Saute' carrots,onion and red bell pepper until softened. Stir in cumin seeds and bay leaf.

2. Puree 3/4 cup of chickpeas and 3/4 cup butternut squash soup in blender until smooth. Add to carrot/onion/pepper mixture. Add the remainder chickpeas and soup. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Meanwhile, place couscous in heat-proof bowl and stir in 1 1/2 cups boiling water. Cover, and let stand 3 to 5 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff with fork. Divide couscous among 6 bowls . Ladle chickpea stew around couscous in each bowl.

Serves:6
Prep Time: 30 mins or less

Wipies!!

2008-03-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

There's something about being a new mom and developing a new language. Its called the baby talk...maybe its because they are so tiny and ya love em to pieces that every word now ends with "es". My father-in-law is the "king" of baby talk....he loves to "squeezes" the baby "cheekes". Truly it is a whole new world of using vocabulary. Now, that I got that off my mind here is the reason for this entry. To encourage mommy readers everywhere to make your own baby wipes!! Not only does it save you money, but you control what comes in contact with that sweet baby skin. It's actually fun to do which is always a bonus!!

HOMEMADE BABY WIPES

What you'll need:

1 roll standard paper towels (I like the select-a- size, Bounty works best)
1 tablespoon oil (skin-friendly oil, I use almond oil)
1 tablespoon soap or baby wash (I like Dr Bronner's Unscented Baby Mild)
1 cup warm water
1-2 drops of your favorite essential oils (I use lavender and *Baby Me)
*(Butterfly Expressions Oil Blend)
1 3-qt capacity reusable sealable container (I use an empty baby wipe container)

How to make them:

1. Slice paper towel roll in half so you have two toilet paper size rolls; set aside unused portion for next batch of baby wipes. Start by unrolling and layering in container. (If not using select-a- size roll you make need to cut the squares in half to get them to fit in container) Continue layering until container is full.

2. Fill measuring cup with 1 cup warm water. Add to paper towels.Then add the oil and soap (or baby wash.) **Note - if you put the oil and soap in before the water, you'll end up with a bubbly mess). Add a few drops of essential oil. Pour mixture evenly over roll. Cover container. Shake it all up and wait at least five minutes before using to allow for maximum absorption of water.

3. Use as needed,usually just one or two can do the trick! I can make up to 3 average size wipe containers and 3 travel size containers for on the go with just one paper towel roll.
A standard sized roll of Bounty will yield 56 wipes per batch (that's 112 wipes per roll). If you buy a roll that has the smaller "customizable" perforations, you'll get even more wipes.

Play around with measurements.....if they're too dry add more water next time. If they're too wet add less. You'll catch on after a few trial runs. Enjoy!!

Preparation time: About 5 minutes

I'll stick with orange!!

2008-03-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

Need a facelift? What can a little fruit do for you? The seasons are changing so its time to freshen up that tired skin. I would love to go to the spa on a daily basis but sometimes its fun to get creative and make our own spa right in the comfort of your own home. Hey, then you don't need to get a babysitter and you can stay in your jammies. Here's a fun recipe for those of you with oily skin just like me. Pull out those oranges. This fruit is loaded with Vit C and has astringent properties making it great for oily skin. All you need is the following:

1/2 Orange

3 Tbsp Cornmeal

To make: Squeeze orange juice and pulp into a bowl and add the cornmeal. Mix into a paste. Apply onto freshly washed face and body. Scrub gently for 2-3 minutes. Rinse, tone & moisturize.

What's it made of ?

2008-03-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

The truth of the matter is....Adam and I try to avoid animal products. Technically this would give us the title of "Vegan". So what's a boy and girl to do at the family sunday dinner table when our plate is piled full of those scrumptious mashed potatoes and the dam is built and the gravy boat is passing by? What really is gravy made of? The drippings of the animal yes that's right the fat that is oozing out of the meat. YUCK!! I've never wanted plain potatoes so now I can happily fill the hole and my love of gravy has returned. The following recipe is delicious !! Even meat lovers enjoy the flavor. Ya gotta try it!

Sassy's Super Easy Gravy (Serves 4-6)

2 Tbsp Earth Balance Butter (this is a non-dairy butter, but I'm sure you could try dairy butter)

1/4 C. onion, finely chopped

1/3 C. whole wheat flour (Spelt works too)

2 C. cool water

1 veggie bouillon cubes (Rapunzel Vegan Veggie Cubes are best!)

1 Tbsp Bragg's Liquid Aminos (a must have for every veggie household, its the best soy sauce!)

Add to taste:

Sea salt

Onion powder

Garlic powder

Poultry Seasoning

Sage

Parsley

1. In a skillet, heat butter. Add onion and saute 2 mins. Add flour and stir until oil is completely absorbed. Let brown for a minute to bring out flavor. Add remaining ingredients. Cook, whisking often, until gravy comes to a boil and thickens. Thin if necessary.

Cover your mouth

2008-03-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

After a phone call this morning from a concerned mommy about the FDA warning against cough syrups and children. I decided to give a little info on COUGHS. It seems another string of the cold/flu bug is going around. A cough when related to a cold is caused by the sinuses draining down the throat and irritating the throat and bronchial tubes. The mucus is trying to be expelled through coughing. The FDA warns that OTC cough syrups don't even work and there is more risk of death so they should not be given to children under the age of 6. Ok, so we know that the runny noses will run there course and soon our little ones will be back to their happy little selves. I agree that it is better to let a cold run its course than offer medication. However, if you'd like to offer relief, in the meantime, here are a few suggestions.

The more mucus forming foods we eat the worse the congestion will become so

#1 Limit the intake of diary (ie cow's milk, cheese,yogurt,ice cream,etc.)

#2 Drink lots of fluids to help flush the system

#3 Eucalyptus oil. Add a few drops to a humidifier and keep it in child's bedroom to open up the passageways. It can also be diluted in olive oil (almond oil, apricot kernel oil or other massage oils) and applied to chest, back and feet. ALWAYS DILUTE

I love this oil!! It is awesome for the respiratory system it influences and promotes health and well-being. As a child my mom would rub Vick's Vapor rub on my chest and it's key ingredient was eucalyptus. I choose not to use it now because of the other ingredients it contains. I fill my bathtub with hot water and add between 10-20 drops and just let the bathroom become steamy. I will stand in there with Haven and allow her to breathe it in. This is mainly because I don't own a humidifier but it helps every time she seems congested.

#4 Make your own Cough syrup. Here's how:

Adults: Slice a large onion and place in a bowl. Cover with honey and let stand for 24hrs. Strain off liquid and you have a powerful cough elixir.

Kids: 3 TBS Thyme leaves in a quart jar. Add 2 cups boiling water. Close lid and let steep until cool. Strain off liquid and add 1 cup honey, a 1"piece of ginger or a piece of orange peel. Refrigerate. Take 1 tsp as needed.

(Linda Page's Healthly Healing 12th edition)

To satisfy an itch!!

2008-03-09T15:39:00.001-07:00

Ever had an itch that could drive you mad? I've recently experienced firsthand the feeling of wanting to scratch and scratch and when I found no relief...the thought of literally pulling my skin off... didn't sound so bad. So I've decided to post some of my personal favorite natural remedies for itching.

Let's first start with the basic 101 on our skin. Its the largest organ of the body, it is part of the eliminative systems (ie kidneys,colon,lungs and tada the SKIN) so when something is being manifested on the skin it's usually the body's way of saying "none of the other channels are doing their job, so "I" will use the skin to clean out the dirt ("toxins")" Good to know that the "itch" is not the problem but merely a symptom. So what can you do?

1st -- Drink more water!! (Distilled or filtered is best)

2nd -- Add good fats to the diet to keep the skin moist (olive oil, nuts, avocado, my favorite is an oil blend called Udo's Choice it has all the omega's 3 6 9)

3rd -- It could be a reaction to chemicals in your soap, laundry detergent,lotions,etc. (Its best to use natural or organic products)

Everything we put on our skin is absorbed into our blood stream so it's important to keep those products clear of chemicals. Read labels and avoid Parabens, Glycol,Mineral oil, Talc (truly if you don't know what it is then don't use it) to find out the safety of a product this is my favorite site http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/index.php

So, now you've tackled the basics. Let me share my story. I was in my third trimester of pregnancy when it all started. THE ITCHING thigh syndrome is what I like to call it. My thighs just itched but there was so no rash or bumps or anything just itchy skin. My midwives and I thought it might just be my body trying to cleanse through the skin or a yeast overgrowth from too much sugar. I couldn't exactly do any fasting cleanses, so I'd have to just bear it, was the conclusion. I started watching what I was eating to see if that was causing the problem...but it didn't seem to make a difference. It was always worse at night, around bedtime. I started asking everyone but no one seemed to know what it could be from. Then my little girl was born and it seemed to cease. Hallelujah!! It sure fooled me, about a month later it returned. I spoke to a friend who is going to Naturopathic school. She though it could be from the skin stretching during pregnancy and the lack of circulation to my thighs. AAhh!!

I reached for my essential oils and found an oil blend call Vitality that is great for circulation. When I get out of the shower, I add a few drops of it to my lotion and apply it to my thighs and finally finally I've found relief. However, I know this is not the cure....I still need to get up and moving. A few nights a week I consider myself a couch potato, when our shows are on. The nights I spend sitting on the couch, I usually have some itching, so I reapply again before bed.