The Eyes Have It!

They say the eyes are the windows to the soul but are they the windows to our bodies as well?

I have been fighting the weirdest eye issue the last couple of months.  Just when I think I've got it figured out, it comes back.  It appears to be a contact dermatitis which basically means, something I am allergic to is coming into contact with the skin of my eyes and they are reacting.  First they feel dry, then the skin starts to redden and get sore and usually by the next day, they are swollen and red.  I've been using "Rescue Cream" to treat the symptoms while I try to figure out the trigger.....the whole time believing it was topical.

Today I am thinking it's more than that.  I think my eyes are trying to tell me something about the toxins I am consuming, not the toxins that I am coming into physical contact with.  I believe that a cleanse is in order.  I've never done a cleanse so any advice would be greatly appreciated.  I have a tendency, especially when I am working to have a drink after work.  I believe that this combined with the crappy junk food I have been consuming at work for the last few months have taken a toll on the balance in my body.

Therefore, today is the beginning.  No more drinking for a while.  Changing my diet to include a whole lot less junk and a whole lot more organics.  After all the years of eating organic, I think my body just doesn't like to consume so many pesticide ridden foods.  It looks like my eyes are the canary in the coal mine of my body.  I need to listen.

I will keep you all posted on my progress as I attempt to be strong, resist the temptations and make a change.  Check the twitter!  I'll keep posting.

Please comment and let me know your thoughts, suggestions, advise or similar stories.

Thanks for listening!

Kasandra

Back to School

So, here we are at week three of back to school.  It sure was a big adjustment for me to get used to making lunches and getting the kids ready in the morning while finishing up this job and juggling the mother-in-law and nanny drama.  Phew!  I've got three weeks left on this job and I am really looking forward to spending some quality me time at home and with the kids.

I'm going to start on a new exercise/eating program once I'm off work.  I'll keep you all posted on that progress once it starts.

I'll have lots of new recipes to try and share.  I have to say the laptop lunches helped alot.  All the kids got new ones this year and it really does make it easier on those mornings where I can't think of what to send.

I look forward to sharing lots in the very near future.

Take Care....deep breaths....lots of hugs!

Kasandra

"Cleanliness is next to Godliness"

Not sure about the "godliness" part but I do find a certain peace in a clean house.  Not an ammonia and bleach smelling clean but just a mostly dust free, dirt removed, things in their place, clean.  I have this whole weekend off and I'm looking forward to opening up all the windows and doors, letting the sea breeze in and cleaning the house.  It always feels so healthy and relaxing. 

I enjoy doing it.  For my own piece of mind.  For a healthy atmosphere for my family.  For the sense of peace and calm it brings.

Tomorrow, I'll start the weekend with a sense of purpose.  Not obligation.  Coming from a place of love, not resentment.

Then, on Sunday, we'll have a family day at the beach or a picnic or just relaxing on the patio and enjoying the beautiful day.

May you all have the same beauty in your weekend.

Lots of Love!

Kasandra

Resist the temptation

I haven't posted in a while.  Got a job in May and disappeared from the planet.  Happens sometimes.  I thought it would be good for me to get into the habit of posting regularly again.  The thing about my job is that it tends to take over.  The eternal struggle for me is to hold on to the stuff I want to be getting done without over-extending my energy.  It's real easy to just sit back and let work take over.  So, getting stuff done.

I've gotten good at juggling the kids, nanny, mother-in-law, husband, dog and household in general with work......years of practice.  The thing I am not good at is taking care of myself.

I'm guessing I am not the only mom with this problem.  At my work, a bit different than most, all of the food is provided.  We are surrounded by food.  The problem:  It's mostly junk.  Even the catering at lunch is very lacking in the vegetarian department.  (Vegetarian option today:  Fettucini Alfredo)  If I succumb to the temptations, you'll have to roll me out of this place come October.  Don't even get me started on the organic situation.  There's just nothing. 

Solution #1:  Bring my own food.  This cuts into my time a bit but well worth it. 

Solution #2:  Exercise a little bit each day.  I sit at a desk for 10 hours everyday.  Even if it means just walking the dog when I get home.  I little bit goes a long way.

Solution #3:  Water!  I fill a jug from my amazing water filter and bring the water with me to work.  My mission is to finish the jug each day before I leave the office.

Solution #4:  Counting calories.  I know it sounds silly but keeping track of what I eat is the best way for me to make sure I don't do the mindless snacking that comes with working alot of hours under high stress and a kitchen full of chips, candies, cookies, crackers, cheese and other easily consumed goodies.  I found a great app for my phone that helps me keep track so I am utilizing it.

Well, I think I've rambled enough.  I'll keep you posted on where I am with it.

Thanks for listening!

Kasandra

Vegetarian Caesar Salad Dressing

I don't know about you but I love Caesar Salads.  It's one of the things I really missed when I stopped eating other beings.  I was determined to nail a recipe that was easy and tastes like the original.  This one is pretty good.  I am still fine tuning but give it a try.

I just throw everything in the Vita-Mix and give 'er.

Veggie Caesar Dressing
2 eggs
1/2 cup good olive oil
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 clove of garlic (you can add more if you need - keeps them vampires away!)
1 tsp salt

Give it a go!  Makes enough for two big salads. 

Chop up about 4 cups Romaine lettuce.
Sprinkle some Parmesan on top.
Add croutons
Squeeze a bit of lemon juice.
Add about 1/2 the dressing and Toss! 

Water for Life

I keep having to remind myself to drink more water.....you?  Why is it that something so good for us can be so difficult to remember to consume.  We wander around all day, minds twittering away in our heads.  I think some re-programming in in order.  Maybe I'll put post its all over the house that say "water?".  That may be a start.  I ALWAYS feel better when I drink my water.  Need to make it the first thing I do in the morning before the coffee.

So, as of today....I am giving myself a 30 day challenge.  I am going to write it on the calendar every day if I drank my water that day.  I'll keep you posted to how it's going.  Join me....we can start a water revolution!

One note about water.....do your research.  Two good documentaries...."Water" and "Flow".
We bought an amazing water filter two years ago and it has made an enormous difference in our lives.  Click on the "Water for Life" link above to learn more about it.  It is really amazing.

Thanks for listening...

Kasandra

Potato Pototo?

As you may or may not realize, I live in Vancouver, Canada.  I was in the market yesterday shopping for the weekly groceries and while in the produce section came to an interesting realization.  I was searching and searching (clearly I must have looked like a lost sheep) when the produce guy asked me if he could help me find something.  "Oh," I said.  "I'm just looking for the organic potatoes."  "There aren't any." he said.

Well, I don't know about you, but this seemed very strange to me.  I certainly have had times where I couldn't find certain organic fruits or vegetables depending on the time of year but potatoes???  Anyway, he explained to me that it was out of season locally and they couldn't import the ones from the US because they didn't meet Canadian organic standards.  This is the part that gave me pause.  Apparently the USDA Organic standards are much lower than the Canadian standards.  Hmmmmm?

I think I am going to do some searching and find out what the differences are.  I am used to label reading but I always thought that when something was labeled "Organic" it was supposed to be "Organic".  I know....I am naive.

Just thought I'd point it out to everyone so that we all start doing some investigating.  If the USDA has created this helpful label, shouldn't it be true?  This needs to be remedied!

Thanks for listening,

potato-less Kasandra

Bread Machine Pitas...can you believe it and so easy!

Let me start this by saying....I love the bread machine.  I must admit, I don't use it as much as I should.  The kids really enjoy a Sourdough and I just haven't tackled that yet at home and the really good multi grain breads are difficult to reproduce unless you're a real bread baker which I am not. But I use it alllllll  the time for dough......pizza, rolls, naan and now.....

Bread Machine Pita Bread


1 1/8 water
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tsp sugar
3 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp yeast

Place all ingredients in the bread pan according to the manufacturer's instructions.  Select Dough setting and start.  When dough is ready, turn out onto a very lightly floured surface.  Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball.  Roll out each ball into a 6-7" circle.  Set aside on a lightly floured countertop, cover with a towel and let rise about 30 minutes.  (Don't worry if they don't really rise much, they still will puff in the oven)

Preheat oven to 500F.  Place 2 or 3 pitas on a wire cake rick.  Place cake rack directly onto oven rack.  Bake for 3-5 minutes.  (Really watch them.  You don't want them to over cook or they will be brittle. They should just be browning a tiny bit is some spots)  Remove the pitas right away and cover them with a damp cloth to soften them..  Once they are softened, cut them the way you want them.  They can be stored in a plastic bag in the fridge for several days or freezer for 1 to 2 months.

-Avoid using too much flour on the board so that the dough doesn't dry out.  Keep unrolled balls covered to prevent drying out.
-Handle with care while rolling and transferring.  Tears or creases can cause them not to puff up while baking.

Enjoy!!!!

Cheater!!!

I don't know if it's the time change or what but I feel like I've fallen off the healthy food wagon this week.  I've had such trouble with drinking my water, taking my supplements and drinking way too much coffee. The other day, I bought Bugles at the gas station and ate the whole bag (yuck!).  I am so tired and just grasping to keep my energy up. 

 I know what it is.  A spiral downward.  I just need to force myself back into the habit and the rest will follow suit.  First step.....drink lots of water, Kasandra!  (Like I didn't know that).  Once I get re-hydrated, the salt cravings will pass, I just know it.  Once I cleanse my body a bit of all the nasties (thanks to my amazing ionizing water filter), my energy will rise and I won't feel like I need a coffee drip all day. 

Next step, go to exercise class tomorrow and work it out.  I know this will help.  Check back with me on Monday and I'll let you know how it's going.  We having a party on Saturday night so it'll be a good test.

I just wanna take a nap.  Does anyone else feel that way sometimes?  Oh...there goes the dryer beeping...duty calls.  Making Amy's Veggie Burgers for dinner.  Everyone likes them and it requires a bit less energy on my part to get them made.  I think I'll make some fresh carrot juice.  That always helps too.

The WATER is the biggest part, though.  Check out the link on the blog.  I have had the filter for two years now and I just love it!

Thanks for listening,

Kasandra

Falafels!!!!!

I love this recipe.  My kids love it, my husband loves it, even my older German mother-in-law loves it.  It comes from a cookbook my husband bought me about 15 years ago.  Even before we became vegetarian, we always loved a good falafel and this one is good!  Serve it with fresh pita (I have a recipe...coming soon), hummus (don't get me started) and tzatiki (ok...now I have way more recipes to post).  Also, lots of fresh veggies and my kids love it with pickles.

FALAFEL RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 pound dried chick-peas, soaked overnight in cold water, then drained and rinsed
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 large onion, finely chopped
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp. ground coriander seeds
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 1/2 cup water
Vegetable oil for frying

1. In a food processor or blender (I use the vita-mix) grind the soaked chick peas.  Add the garlic, onion, parsley, coriander, cumin, salt and baking soda mixture.  Process until smooth.
2. In a large, wide pot, heat oil to a depth of 3 inches until very hot, but not smoking.  With an ice-cream scoop (or a spoon works fine), form the falafel mixture into balls and carefully slide them into the oil.  Cook until golden brown.  Turn if needed to brown the whole ball.  Remove and drain on a paper towel.

That's it!  They keep in the fridge.  Re-heat in the oven really well.  I've made them smaller for party snacks.  Delicious and full of protein!  They are good in lunches too.  You can put mini pitas in the kids lunch kits with the sauces for dipping.  They love it!

Enjoy!!!!!

The tides of change.

So, the other day I caught my nine-year old daughter starting a vegetarian club with her friends.....who aren't vegetarian.  I must admit, I was proud.  I also feared the backlash from the other moms.  It's always best to not stir up too much waves with the fellow parents at school.  Anyway, one of the moms came to me in the playground the other day and promptly announced that her family has decided to have one vegetarian dinner per week just to try it out.  Also, did I have a good falafel recipe.  I was so pleased.  I just love how the tiniest things can have such a great affect.  It's the old butterfly's wing saying.  BTW, I do have a great falafel recipe and I'll post it soon.

Thanks for listening,

Kasandra

Nutritionist

So, my husband and I agree that it would be a good idea to meet with a nutritionist who specializes in vegetarians and vegans to make sure we are all getting what we should be getting, especially the kids who "don't want to eat any meat because it's dead animals" as my five year old puts it.

My first step is to keep track of everything we eat for a couple of days so she can do an analysis.  I find myself making more healthy food the moment I start keeping track of it.

I can think of three possible reasons:
1.  I am paying more attention because I am forced to in order to write it down.
2.  I am hoping the nutritionist will be horribly impressed with my spectacular parenting.
3.  I want to show my husband that I am doing a just fine job thank you very much of feeding my children.

I am secretly praying it's the first one as I don't really like the person that does it for either of the other reasons.  OK...I go with reason number 1.  That's my story and I'm sticking to it. ;)

Regardless, I do think it's a good idea and look forward to the analysis.  I'll keep you posted as to how it goes.

Thanks for listening,

Kasandra 

Back to school

Well, I realize that most people out there didn't have an "olympic break" like some of us here in Vancouver but the idea is the same......back to school.  I think I began to have anxiety about it two or three days in advance.  What to put in those lunches that they will eat and is good for them.  It's the never ending battle.

I'll admit there are times when I channel "super mom" and think that I will make a whole bunch of spectacular recipes from the latest vegetarian cook book and the kids will love it and I can be all proud of myself.  These moments are few and far between.  Most of the time, I am just grasping at straws to figure out what to feed the little tykes.  My hope is this blog will bring us together to share solutions that we have all found to work as well as the disasters that didn't work.  (Like the time I tried to make almond butter and jam roll ups with tortillas and the kids hated them, they were terribly messy because the jam squirted out and they were still quite dry.  In the end, I should have just made a sandwich).

The fact of the matter is that we are all trying to do our best and sometimes we'll do really great and like with all things, the balance of the universe will serve us with some disasters.  I think the important thing is to roll with the punches and keep laughing.  Fun is the most important thing.  Besides, the kids hardly eat anything at school anyway.  All they really want to do is go outside with their friends and play.

Here are a few tricks that help me:
1.  I bought the laptop lunch kits.  I know, they are expensive. But worth it.  The kids like all the little compartments so their food doesn't touch.  It saves bags.  They are easy to clean (I just pop them in the dishwasher).  Also, it helps me pack the lunches.  All I need to do is fill one little compartment at a time with something fairly nutritious that the kids like and move on to the next one.  I find it less daunting.  They even come with a little tiny one for sauce.  You know how kids like sauce.

2.  Keep it simple.  I have read so many cook books that give these elaborate examples of lunches and at first it seems a really good idea but on the day, with one cup of coffee in me, it can get overwhelming.

3.  On the days that the school is having "hot lunch day" I will send something a little special that is better than what they would get if I had spent the $5.00 for "hot lunch" which is usually not hot nor is it nutritious.

Please share tricks that you have found work with you.  This site is meant to be interactive!

Thanks for listening.

Kasandra

P.S.  It's my 40th birthday today as well.  sigh....it just keeps getting better.

Chocolate Chip Cookies - not Vegan but lower fat - part 2

Preheat to 350
Beat margarine and sugar.  Will look like wet sand
Add the egg, brown rice syrup and vanilla and beat until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine flours, flax, baking soda and salt.
Add to the sugar mixture and combine.  Add the chocolate chips until just blended.
Drop onto cookie sheet covered with parchment or a silicone baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes

Enjoy!

Chocolate Chip Cookies - not Vegan but lower fat - part 1

1/4 cup butter or margarine (I like Earth Balance Organic Buttery Spred)
3/4 cup cane sugar
1 large egg
2 tbsp. brown rice syrup
1 tsp vanilla
3/4 cup flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour (I grind my own from wheat berries in my awesome vita mix)
2 tbsp ground flax (adds Omegas! - good for your brain)
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup ground walnuts (not all my kids like nuts but they are good for your brain that's why I grind them)

Recipe to follow........

Veggie Lasagne? Or is it?

I made that veggie lasagne last night.  Turned out really good.  A carnivorous friend that was over stated "It  really tastes like it has meat."  That's the best compliment you can get.  Do I long for the day that I don't have to hide the veggies in the dinner and the kids will still eat it?  You bet!  But for now, this will do.

Some tricks:  Veggie ground round.  Whole wheat flour in the pasta dough.  Made the sauce in a normal way but finely chopped the carrots, celery, cabbage, onions, mushrooms to hide them from the kids.  Also, I added a whole acorn squash that I roasted in the oven first.  My kids like a sweeter tomato sauce so the sweetness of the squash was easily hidden.  I built the lasagne with the pasta, the sause, ricotta cheese and a little mozzarella.  Looked like a normal lasagne.  Tasted delicious!

What's for dinner mom?

Any mom will know that the daily chore of determining what to feed the kids is a daunting one.  With all the activities, house cleaning, dog walking, laundry doing, etc.....who has time?  Being a vegetarian mom feeding vegetarian kids is sometimes even more daunting.  If only macaroni and cheese was nutritionally balanced, right?  Add in using only organics and trying to stay on a budget, it can be quite a trial.

Anyway, I am currently sitting in a giant, noisy indoor play place while my Kindergardener and his friend run around like banshees shooting foam balls at each other wondering what to make for dinner.  The nutritionalist in me thinks..."Lentils, we haven't had lentils for a while"  Then I think...yes, but only one of the children likes lentils...sigh....another day, another challenge.

I definitely have to make some cookies, do the laundry and get my oldest child to continue the schoolwork that he needs to get done before the end of the term (he's homeschooled but is transitioning into High School next year.....gulp!).  Maybe lasagne.  I can sneak lots of veggies into the sauce (maybe even some lentils ;)  It'll take some time but I just love the process of making the pasta, the sauce, the veggie sneaking and the layering and baking of it all.  Plus, I find that because it's all done in advance, the bedtime dishes aren't so bad.....don't get me started on the dishes.

Alright, off to pick up my oldest, drive across town, pick up the bits I need for dinner.....do I stop at the liquor store too?.....tempting.  Go home and get that dinner started.

Sheesh.....I need to get a job just to take a break.

I'll post my Chocolate Chip cookie recipe later....it's really good with all sorts of hidden goodness.

Have a great day!

Kasandra