Eve's Cupboard Raw Vegan Blog

Using Chemicals in the Name of Beauty?

2012-02-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Are you using products that contain the toxic 12?

Toxic cancer causing (carcinogenic) chemicals in the air we breathe, the food we eat and the personal care toiletries we use on our hair, skin and in our mouths may be contributing to the spiralling rate of cancer and metabolic disease whilst speeding up the aging process.

http://www.health-report.co.uk/harmful_toxic_toiletries_chemicals_cancer_causing.html

Cured!

2012-02-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

Video Information

(www.holiticvoicefilm.com) Cured! is a feature length documentary that will document the stories of individuals who have healed themselves of chronic, degenerative and terminal disease without drugs, surgery or chemotherapy.

It will take viewers through the story of patients with ofetn terminal diseases completely reversing their disease through nutrition, juice fasting and detoxing their body. To finish this film, we need your donations! To make a donation please visit www.holisticvoice.org or www.holiticvoicefilm.com.

www.naturalnews.com

What messages are we sending our children?

2012-01-31T05:39:00.000-08:00

The Militarization of Boys

Is It Worth The Risks? Some Lives Are Changed Forever.

2012-01-30T06:12:00.000-08:00

Less stuff, more happiness

2012-01-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

What are you REALLY eating?

2012-01-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

Did you know that there are companies that spend their time creating flavors that will make people crave certain foods and also make them taste better to the consumer?

The following list of ingredients in artificial strawberry flavoring:

A typical artificial strawberry flavor, like the kind found in a Burger King strawberry milk shake, contains the following ingredients:
amyl acetate,
amyl butyrate,
amyl valerate,
anethol,
anisyl formate,
benzyl acetate,
benzyl isobutyrate,
butyric acid,
cinnamyl isobutyrate,
cinnamyl valerate,
cognac essential oil,
diacetyl,
dipropyl ketone,
ethyl acetate,
ethyl amyl ketone,
ethyl butyrate,
ethyl cinnamate,
ethyl heptanoate,
ethyl heptylate,
ethyl lactate,
ethyl methylphenylglycidate,
ethyl nitrate,
ethyl propionate,
ethyl valerate,
heliotropin,
hydroxyphenyl-2-butanone (10 percent solution in alcohol),
a-ionone,
isobutyl anthranilate,
isobutyl butyrate,
lemon essential oil,
maltol,
4-methylacetophenone,
methyl anthranilate,
methyl benzoate,
methyl cinnamate,
methyl heptine carbonate,
methyl naphthyl ketone,
methyl salicylate,
mint essential oil,
neroli essential oil,
nerolin,
neryl isobutyrate,
orris butter,
phenethyl alcohol,
rose,
rum ether,
g-undecalactone,
vanillin, and
solvent.

feingold.org/strawberry

Did you hear him mention that some strawberry and vanilla flavorings are made by using a gland from a beaver's backside? :)

My Favorite Green Smoothie

2012-01-05T08:28:00.001-08:00

Ingredients: Kale, spinach, chard or your green of choice
Bananas
Frozen or fresh pineapple
Frozen or fresh mango chunks
An orange (I only had a couple of clementine on hand today)
Enough water to blend (about a cup)

I don't use any additional sweeteners because the pineapple makes this recipe so sweet. If you prefer a thicker smoothie you can freeze the bananas ahead of time.

How to Make the Most of the Fresh Start of a New Year

2012-01-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

“Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” ~ Buddha

Post written by Leo Babauta one of my FAVORITE bloggers. Link to his site on my Blogroll to the right.

We’re several days into the New Year, and many of us are still basking in the glow of a fresh start.

Every year, January brings renewed optimism for change, for a better life, for a better you. And that’s a wonderful thing.

It’s wonderful, because this fresh start gives us a chance to reinvent our lives and ourselves. It allows us to reinvigorate ourselves, to shed the baggage of the previous year and do anything. Anything is possible!

That is a gift, my friends, and I suggest we make the most of this gift. Not just by creating and sticking to resolutions (here’s my guide for doing that), but by reinventing the way we live.

Here’s how.

1. Let go.
Many times we are held back by the tangled web of previous failures, commitments, emotions, barriers. We cannot change careers because we’re used to what we’re doing and it’s too hard to change. We cannot find time to get healthy and fit because we have all these other things to do. We cannot find time for our loved ones because we have too many commitments.

This is all old baggage. A fresh start demands a clean slate. Let everything from the past go (easier said than done, I know). Clear your plate and your palate.

Let go of attachments to what you’ve been doing for the past year, or years. Let go of failures. Let go of fears you’ve built up. Let go of reluctance. Let go of your ideas about what your life has to be like, because that’s the way it’s evolved so far. Let go of long-held beliefs and habits.

You have a fresh start. Let go of last year, and start anew.

2. Decide what matters most today.
Forget about your goals for all of this year. Instead, decide: what do you want to do today?

What matters most to you, to your life? What are you most passionate about, right now? What excites and invigorates you? What would give you the most fulfillment?

Often the answer is in creating something, making something new, helping other people, becoming a better person, working on a project that will be an accomplishment to be proud of. But whatever your answer, have it clear in your mind at the beginning of the day.

This might be something you work on all year, or it might just last a month, or it might last a week or a few days, or just today. It doesn’t matter. What matters is today — that you’re going to work on this with all your heart, today. Tomorrow … we’ll decide on that tomorrow.

3. Clear away distractions and focus.
Clear away email and Facebook and Twitter and your favorite blogs and news websites and social forums, clear away the iPhone or Blackberry or Android or cell phone, clear away all the little nagging work and chores and errands that pull at your attention, clear away the clutter that surrounds you (sweep it off to the side to deal with later).

In fact, if you can, shut off the Internet for awhile. You can come back to it when you take a break.

Now, find focus. Even if only for 15 or 20 minutes at first, but preferably for 30-60 minutes. You can take a break and check your email or whatever after you’ve focused. Focus on the thing that matters most. Do it for as long as you can, until you’re done if possible. Feel free to take breaks, but always return to your focus.

When you’re done, focus on the next thing that matters most, and so on.

4. Find happiness now.
Don’t look at happiness as something that will come when you’re done with this goal, or when you’ve attained a certain accomplishment or certain amount of wealth or material goods. Don’t look at happiness as a destination, something that you’ll get later.

Happiness is possible right now. Always remember that. When you push it back until later, it’ll never come. When you learn to be happy now, it’ll always be here.

When you’re doing whatever you’re passionate about, whatever matters most, whatever you decide is worthy of your time and heart and focus … be happy! You’re doing what you love. And that is truly a gift.

5. Reinvent yourself, every day.
Every day, you are reborn. Reinvent yourself and your life, every day. Do what matters most to you, that day.

It might be the same thing that mattered most yesterday, or it might not be. That isn’t important. What’s important is today — right now. Be passionate, be happy, right now.

You’ll have a fresh start every single day — not just on January 1. And that, my friends, is the best thing ever.

Wishing Everyone A Happy & Healthy 2012

2012-01-01T07:13:00.000-08:00

Thrive

2011-12-31T15:34:00.000-08:00

SYNOPSIS

THRIVE is an unconventional documentary that lifts the veil on what's REALLY going on in our world by following the money upstream -- uncovering the global consolidation of power in nearly every aspect of our lives. Weaving together breakthroughs in science, consciousness and activism, THRIVE offers real solutions, empowering us with unprecedented and bold strategies for reclaiming our lives and our future.

http://www.thrivemovement.com/

Beautiful story of an Indigo child named Tippi

2011-11-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

The extraordinary full story of Tippi, an Indigo child...Tippi was born in Namibia, where her parents, Alain Degré and Sylvie Robert, worked as freelance wildlife photographers. During her stay in Namibia, she befriended wild animals, including a 28-year old elephant Abu, a leopard nicknamed J&B, crocodiles, lion cubs, giraffes, a Northern Greater Galago, a Banded Mongoose, an Ostrich, meerkats, a baby zebra, a cheetah, a Caracal, a snake, an African Grey Parrot, giant bullfrogs and chameleons. She also befriended the Bushmen and the Himba tribespeople of the Kalahari, who taught her how to survive on roots and berries, and to speak their language.

You do not need to understand the language to enjoy this film. The pictures are beautiful, here is a short pictorial version of the full length film.

Is a flu shot worth the risks involved?

2011-10-31T07:37:00.000-07:00

I opt for keeping my immune system healthy naturally.

What should I put in my juice?

2011-09-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

Joe Cross giving some very simple juicing advice.

Simple Sweet Juice

2011-09-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Trying To Make Summer Last A Little Longer

2011-09-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

My son and his girlfriend bought me this beautiful annual for Mother's day in May. It has been the centerpiece of our step garden this year and was absolutely beautiful. It just kept growing and producing stunning orange flowers all summer long.

It spread so much that there was little need to weed this flower garden this year. The weeds had no room to move in.

I really hated the thought of the frost killing this beauty so hubby dug up the center of the plant and then carefully pulled all of the runners free. He potted it in a large pot, gave it a serious haircut and then built a new trellis for it to climb on. We put it in the bathroom to see if it will continue to grow.

The plant is called a Thunbergia or Black-eyed Susan Vine. It can grow to be 8 ft. tall on a trellis outside. If it survives the winter inside, we will put it back out in the Spring.

A Beautiful Fall Day At The Fair

2011-09-23T16:22:00.000-07:00

Every September in Maine we look forward to the Common Ground Fair. It is a huge gathering for folks who enjoy good organic foods, beautiful flowers, eco-friendly products, informational seminars on topics such as composting, gardening, and many other homesteading topics.

This year the fair expects 60,000 people to attend this three day event. We always try to go on Friday to avoid the heavy weekend crowd but Friday is by no means a slow day.

Below are some of the beautiful things we saw today. Enjoy.

New Compost Bin

2011-09-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

We have lived at our current home for 16 years. My husband built a compost area the summer we moved in and we are just now having to replace it. The old compost bin was about half of the size the new one is.

Being able to put our food and yard waste in a compost area is so nice. Less smelly trash and even your weeds and fallen leaves will be useful in growing your future gardens.

You need to be sure to get a mixture of both brown materials for carbon and green materials for nitrogen. If the mixture is not right it takes much longer to break down.

We rarely have needed to wet down our compost pile. We just rely on the natural mixture of rainfall and sunshine. If there is long dry period you may want to wet your compost pile down. Make sure not to make it too mushy though.

Turn your pile over with a pitchfork frequently. The bacteria need air to survive so turning your pile over keeps all of those organisms healthy and growing.

The leaves are starting to turn color in our area so pretty soon the bagger on the lawnmower will be filled with chopped leaves and not just green grass clippings.

Grapes Pack A Healthy Punch

2011-09-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

Grapes are full of numerous health promoting phyto-nutrients such as poly-phenolic antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Grapes have Resveratrol and may also help delay and prevent brain aging and associated diseases, like Alzheimer’s. Red grapes have also been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure in clinical studies.

Minerals in grapes include:
Potassium
Calcium
Phosphorus
Magnesium
Iron
Selenium
Trace amounts of copper
Manganese
Zinc

Grapes also contain the vitamins A, B and C.

I am munching on grapes this week because they are filling, delicious, good for me and best of all, red or green organic grapes are on sale this week at my local grocery store for only 1.99 a pound!

10 Reasons Eating Raw is Healthier For You and the Planet

2011-09-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Article by Zen Habits contributor Jonathan Mead at illuminatedmind.net

At the beginning of the new year I decided to go Raw for 30 days. I’ve always been interested in eating a raw diet, but never had the guts to completely jump in and do it. I would eat raw for breakfast and lunch most days but would break down at dinner time and eat cooked food. I was eating about 60-80% raw, I just needed the extra push to move to eating 100% raw vegan food. I got that push after seeing these amazing before and after eating raw photos.

I decided the best way to know if something is all it’s cracked up to be is to try it. At the very worst if it doesn’t work out you can always go back, right?

What I found is that eating raw is not only easy to do, but makes you feel amazing.

It wasn’t easy to resist eating cooked foods at first. Just like breaking any habit, it takes time and persistence. Most of all, it helps to simply take it one day at a time and focus on only one goal. For the new year I decided not to make any other resolutions or goals, but to simply eat a raw vegan diet for 30 days.

Here are just a few things I’ve learned:

Live foods. It’s common sense right? A cooked seed won’t grow, but a raw seed will. Heating food over 118 degrees Fahrenheit destroys much of the nutrients in your food. Cooking food also diminishes the natural life energy. I’d rather put living food in my body.
Enzymes. Cooking food destroys much of the natural enzymes (your body can also create enzymes, but can only do so much) in your food that are needed to break down nutrients. Eating raw eliminates this problem.
Insane energy. You won’t know this unless you try it for yourself, but eating raw gives you an amazing boost in energy. I used to get tired around 2 or 3pm during the day. Now I simply don’t have that problem. When I do get tired, it doesn’t last nearly as long and an orange or apple will recharge me within a few minutes.
Better sleep and less sleep needed. I’ve slept better than ever while eating raw. But most importantly, I don’t wake up feeling tired or groggy anymore. On most days, I wake up feeling full of energy.
Increased mental clarity. Eating raw has helped me focus on the things that are important and made me more emotionally in tune with others. I feel like a wall of fog has been removed in my mind. It’s easier to think clearly and focus for long periods of time.
Eat as much as you want. This isn’t really a health benefit, but it is pretty awesome. I never get that uncomfortable full feeling eating raw. You know where you have to unbutton the top button on your pants and take a nap? I don’t get that. I can eat as much as I want, and while I will feel full, I don’t feel weighed down or tired.
Less cleanup. Simply put, there aren’t many dishes to wash when you eat fruit and vegetables. Although if you do compost (like I do), you’ll probably have to do it more often.
No packaging. Eating raw means less packaging all around (well, I guess you could argue that banana and orange peels are “packaging”). This means less trash in a landfill and more room in your cupboards. Win/win for everyone.
More regularity. You should naturally have around two to three bowel movements a day. If you’re going less than that, it probably means your intestines are unhealthily clogged. A raw diet gives you more than enough fiber to keep you regular.
Connection with the earth. Eating food that’s been freshly picked just feels different. You feel more connected to the earth and more grounded. Eating lots of processed foods — frozen or from a box — makes creates more of a gap and leaves you feeling disconnected from the earth that sustains you.
Want to give it a try? If you’re interested in pursuing a raw diet, here are a few great resources to get you started:

Renegade Health – Great daily videos on eating raw and organic.
Living and Raw Foods – Vast archive of information and resources for eating a raw diet.
30 Day Raw Trial – Steve Pavlina’s introduction to his 30 day trial eating only raw foods.
It should be noted that you don’t have to go 100% raw to see the benefits of eating this way. My transition to a raw diet wasn’t a quick process. I’ve been vegetarian for seven years and in the past two, started eliminating most dairy as well.

You don’t have to drop out and becoming a complete raw foodist right away. Any increase in raw foods in your diet will give you noticeable, immediate results.

This article was written by Zen Habits contributor Jonathan Mead of Illuminated Mind. To learn more about how to reclaim your life, grab a subscription to Illuminated Mind
illuminatedmind.net

Zen Habits is an awesome blog, you can find Leo's work here: zenhabits.net

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead Trailer

2011-09-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

This is a great film and it is available on Netflix streaming! It is well worth the watch. Joe is very dedicated to helping others regain their health while overcoming his own health and weight issues.

Kale salad

2011-09-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

1 bunch of Kale - be sure to remove leaf from the stem
1 red pepper chopped
1/4 red onion chopped
1 spring onion chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill
garlic to taste
1/2 cup dried cranberries
2 tomatoes chopped
250g mixed green salad leaves

Dressing

1/4 cup Shoyu or Tamari
1/2 cup lemon juice - freshly squeezed
2 Tablespoons agave syrup
1/4 cup olive, flax or macadamia oil (optional)

Method

Tear the kale into bite size pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Gradually massage the dressing into the kale leaves, this will tenderise the kale. Continue to massage the kale until the leaves are limp.

Add all other ingredients to the kale and combine.

This salad can be used as a filling for nori rolls, or simply enjoyed by itself.

Turn the salad into a warm stir-raw by placing it in the Dehydrator or an hour or so to warm it - great for these cold wintery evenings.

Kale is packed full of nutrients.

Enjoy!

I found this recipe at: http://www.thejoyproject.com/_webapp_866632/Kale_Salad
While you are there, click around on this awesome website, Amanda Gore also has some really great inspirational videos on youtube.

Cool, Refreshing Juices For Summer

2011-07-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

Cucumber, green apple, carrot, beet with a little lemon juice

Cucumber, green apple juice

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

2011-05-25T05:28:00.001-07:00

1 cup almonds
3/4 cup dates, pitted and soaked
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 Tbs. Poppy seeds

Blend almonds in food processor until fine. Add in the dates and lemon juice, process until smooth. Add poppy seeds and blend until poppy seeds are mixed in well. Roll out into balls and flatten into cookies onto mesh dehydrator screens. Dehydrate for 3-4 hours at 105 degrees. You can also mix in ground flax seeds, form into balls and serve without dehydrating.

Have you had your salad today?

2011-02-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas Fruit

2010-12-29T07:01:00.000-08:00

The credit for this beautiful creation goes to my mom-in-law Emily. She always makes a fruit centerpiece for the table on Christmas.

Raw Food Bodybuilder

2010-09-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

This is a very inspiring video!
In the video he speaks of not buying only organic produce because of the cost.
There are a dozen or so foods that are considered the most heavily sprayed crops that should be bought organic.

Here is a list of some of the food that are sprayed more than others:

Strawberries
apples
celery
peaches
nectarines
leafy greens
cherries
carrots
kale
potatoes
pears
grapes
blueberries
bell peppers

Here are some foods that have thicker skin, or are just not sprayed as heavily and can be purchased conventional if you are trying to save money:

Onion
mango
pineapple
kiwi
watermelon
eggplant
avocado
sweet corn (I only buy organic corn to ensure it is not genetically modified)
cabbage
asparagus
coconut
broccoli

Guess What I Finally Bought?!

2010-08-09T08:02:00.000-07:00

A Vita-Mix! Yay!!!
I have been wanting to own one of these for a very long time. I just really had reservations about the plastic container. They finally came out with a BPA free version and I was oh so happy. :)

I made my first smoothie in the new machine this morning. I worked so much better than my blender. It really does break down every bit of the food you put in.
I will be doing lots of experimenting with the recipe book that came with the Vita-Mix. I will post pictures and share the family favorites in the weeks to come.

Lots of Garden Pictures

2010-07-26T08:20:00.001-07:00

As you can see, we are enjoying a wonderful growing season. Everything is a few weeks early this year due to a warm spring and a very hot summer so far.
We have picked over 50 cucumbers already!!!

2010-07-26T05:38:00.000-07:00

What is success?
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent
people and the affection of children.
To earn the appreciation of honest
critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends.
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others.
To leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden
patch or a redeemed social condition.
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Avocado Boats

2010-07-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

I came across this recipe the other day and it looked so delicious I had to try it!

2 ripe avocados
1/2 ripe tomato, finely chopped
1/3 cucumber, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pinch cayenne pepper and sea salt

Carefully cut avocados in half lengthwise and remove seed. Remove avocado pulp from shell and mash in a bowl. Add other ingredients and mix. Put mixture back into avocado shells. Serve with raw carrot and celery sticks.

-recipe from Simply Vegan by Debra Wasserman

Note: I left out the lemon juice. We were eating them right away with dinner and also used fresh garlic instead of powder. They were awesome. Hubby LOVED them.

Raw Chocolate Ice Cream

2010-06-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

This is a great nondairy alternative to ice cream. It is inexpensive and easy to make and it is loaded with magnesium and potassium.

2 ripe bananas
4 teaspoons powdered organic cocoa, unsweetened
1 teaspoon maple syrup, agave or your choice of sweetener

Peel bananas and break into pieces. Put in blender with cocoa powder and sweetener.
Blend until smooth.
Scrape mixture into container that is freezer-safe. Freeze at least 2 hours. It will have a texture similar to ice cream but without the cholesterol.

Rainer Cherries

2010-06-27T06:24:00.000-07:00

I stopped by Whole Foods yesterday and was delighted to find Rainier cherries. I love them! They are sweeter than regular cherries and are so pretty.
The season to find them in stores is from late June to early July. The season does not last very long so make sure you hunt them down right NOW.

A few facts about these little beauties:

-One cup of Rainier cherries has only 90 calories.
- Rainier Cherries were created in 1952 at Washington State University by Harold
Fogle.
-In Japan, Rainier cherries often sell for a dollar each.
-The flesh inside the Rainier cherry is white not red like other cherries.
-Cherries are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, potassium and iron.

Today's Smoothie

2010-04-28T05:57:00.001-07:00

This is a very simple smoothie to make. I am just using a regular blender. I have not taken the plunge and bought a high powered one yet.
This smoothie has blueberries, mango pieces, banana, an orange, water and a handful of fresh spinach. Just process until it is smooth and blended together.

This is the finished product. Very colorful means lots of vitamins and lots of flavor.

Raw Chocolate Pudding

2010-04-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

Meat of 2 coconuts
6 dates
3 tablespoons of cocoa powder

Blend ingredients in blender or food processor.

Simple Juice

2010-04-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Started today with this very simple juice:

Carrots
Apples
Baby Spinach

Delicious

I Got A New Bike!!!

2010-04-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

I also got a doggie basket for the new bike. Our Pom is trying it out in this picture.
I am really hoping for some good weather this week. I am excited to try out my new bike and get some fresh air and vitamin D.

Asian Kale

2010-04-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

This week seems to be all about kale!

For the dish, I just combine these ingredients to taste and add fresh kale and let it marinade in the fridge for a few hours:

Sesame oil, honey or agave, lemon juice, tamari, garlic and sesame seeds.

Kale Chips

2010-04-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing a lot about how delicious kale chips are. I had to finally try them out for myself. Ok, I am addicted too. So yummy and very easy to make.

Kale Chips

3/4 cup tahini
1/4 cup tamari
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1 clove garlic
1 lemon (juiced)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 cup nutritional yeast

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Wash and break up kale into large pieces (remember, everything shrinks in the dehydrator)
Dehydrate for 4-6 hours and enjoy

Raw Shopping Trip

2010-04-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

This is what I purchased today at Whole Foods yesterday. I am also going to finally try the kale chips recipe that I have heard so much about. I will post pictures and the recipe in the next post.

Yay, fresh farmer's market produce is coming soon. Maine is a hard place to find good produce in the cold months.

A Simple Breakfast

2010-04-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

Strawberries, raisins and sunflower seeds make a very quick and healthy breakfast.
This would also be a great lunchbox treat for your children to take to school.
Kids are naturally drawn to colorful fruit dishes. Do some experimenting at home.
Let them choose between a bowl of sugar filled cereal and this simple bowl of berries.
I bet you will be surprised to see which one they gravitate to!

Some fun nutritional facts for this dish:

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and manganese. They are also a great source of dietary fiber.

Raisins are rich in vitamin A, iron, potassium and selenium.

Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin B and vitamin D is actually stored inside of them.

Turning over a new (lettuce) leaf

2010-04-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my blogs for quite some time. I have a little extra time in my week right now and I am hoping to give them the attention they deserve.

You may remember my grandbaby Maddy. There is a photo of her posted when this blog was first started. Well, here she is now. Almost three years old and boy does she love her smoothies!

No Impact on the earth for a week, are you up for a

2010-01-05T05:13:00.000-08:00

I read Colin's book and listened to him speak at a local fair. His project is very inspirational. His family went an entire year without many of the things we all take for granted everyday.
Here he is challenging us all to try his experiment for one week and has even made a step by step download to help you succeed.

How to Make Fresh Nut Milks in Your Blender

2009-06-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

Nut milks are what I consider to be a raw food classic. They're quick, easy - fun, even. And they taste jolly good too. In fact, if you know what you're doing they taste superb, and anyone - young or old - would love them given half a chance.

What follows is the why, what and how of nut milks together with a few hints and tips for making good ones greater. So even if you already consider yourself to be a Nut Milk Maestro, the following article may just help elevate your status to Nut Milk King or Queen!

Shall we get started?

Why nut milks?

Nut milks are packed with nutrition owing to the fact that they contain a fairly significant amount of nuts (1 measuring cup typically). However, with that does come the fat of course, but much less than usual as all of the fibre is removed if you choose to strain, and therefore a significant amount of the fat is left behind too as it remains in the fibre. This way you get all of the taste, none of the bulk and most of the nutrition (all nuts are typically high in zinc, magnesium, iron, protein, some B vitamins and manganese though it does differ from nut to nut). Blended and strained nuts are much easier to digest than when eaten dry and whole and therefore are much easier on the system.

And although they are fibre-free, because they are so nutrition-dense they make for a very filling drink or snack, or even meal depending on your appetite - but without giving you the full feeling of a meal. In the past I would quite often have a nut milk for supper if I wasn't hungry earlier on in the evening but wanted something an hour or so before bed. And sometimes only a nut milk would do!

What are nut milks and what can be done with them?

* Nut milks are a delicious and fresh alternative to dairy milks and are not to be confused with any other kind of milk you may have come across. This includes non-dairy milks such as soya and commercially produced almond milk, all of which are heat-treated.
* Nut milks are so-called because of their white dairy-like appearance and their similarity in taste to cow's milk, especially cashew milk which is the most similar and in raw food recipes is most commonly used as a dairy replacement.
* Fresh raw and unflavoured nut milks consist solely of raw nuts and water - nothing else.
* Nut milks taste fresh and creamy and leave you feeling refreshed and satiated, whereas dairy milks tend to leave a mucousy after-taste and you feeling a bit "gunky."
* Nut milks are delicious drunk either as is, or with sweeteners or flavourings added to them.
* Nut milks are great replacements for people with dairy intolerances.
* Nut milks are more commonly known about than seed milks, but all of the nut milk information given below (apart from that relating to ice-cream) can be applied to seed milks - i.e. milks made from using seeds such as sesame, sunflower, pumpkin or hemp, as opposed to nuts.

How to make a nut milk

To make a nut milk you will need a blender (or Vita-Mix) and something to strain the milk with. A "nut milk bag" is ideal for this but you can use a fine mesh sieve to good effect - but it must be fine mesh as anything bigger will not work and you will get lumps or fibre in your milk.

Step 1: Go nuts!
To get started you'll need some good quality nuts to work with. The best ones to start with are usually almonds as these are easy to find, easy to use and most people seem to love them. Whatever nuts you choose these will ideally be organic and with no broken bits or chips and will be raw - not salted or roasted! Other good ones to start with are cashews or hazelnuts.

Step 2: Get blending
To make enough nut milk for 1 large serving place 1 measuring cup of your chosen nut into your blender with 3 cups of pure water. Blend until all the nuts have been broken down and no bits care remaining. You should be left with a "milk" that has no bits rattling around inside it, although if you've used almonds there will be bits of brown skin showing up in the mixture - this is fine, we'll get rid of these next.

Step 3: Take the strain
Next, prepare to strain your milk by getting a jug or bowl to collect it in and your strainer in hand. Pour your milk through the strainer and into your jug or bowl. My own personal preference is to use a nut milk bag and a tall jug as the bag sits nicely around the top of the jug making it much easier to pour the milk into.

Step 4: Milk it to the max
You'll want to get as much milk from your mixture as possible, so you'll need to make sure you have strained it well. If you've used a nut milk bag to strain, continue squeezing the bag until no more milk can come out. If you're using a sieve use a spoon to swirl and press the nut milk and pull around until all the liquid has come through.

Step 5: Drink now - or flavour?
Your milk will now be "fizzing" with life and completely clear of any bits of pulp or fibre as you've strained it. At this point you can drink your milk simply by pouring it into a glass and serving, or you can choose to sweeten it or flavour it according to your own preferences. (Be sure to rinse the blender jug well first). I personally like to sweeten my nut milk a little, which I usually do with a Medjool date or two, or a tablespoon of agave nectar - I think this one simple addition takes the milk from a "7" to a "10" and most people who try them both and then compare agree (unless they have a low sweetness threshold!). If you'd like to flavour yours, read on for a range of ideas of what you can do with your lovely fresh nut milk, but bear in mind these ideas are just for starters!

Top nut milk facts & tips

* Nut milks will keep for several hours in the fridge with negligible loss of taste and nutrition. This only applies to pure nut milks - not those which have had anything added to them which will tend to ferment quite quickly and should be drunk ideally within the hour.

* To make a raw ice-cream with a nut milk base start your experiments with cashews or almonds. Cashew is the nut most like cow's milk in taste, but some people aren't so fond of cashews. But almonds are always a winner!

* To make a nut milk even more quickly AND avoid all the straining (of all kinds!), use 1 Tablespoon of nut butter instead of the 1 cup of nuts. Simply blend the butter with the water and hey presto! Instant milk.

* You can add fruit to nut milks, but bear in mind that it's not a great combination as far as food combining goes (when eaten together fruit and nuts tend to ferment in the stomach). However, because the nuts are not whole but in a milk form and therefore fibre-free this is much less likely to happen, or at least will be much less intense. Almond and strawberry is a great-tasting combination!

* Some great ingredients to try adding to your nut milks (in moderation!): Maca, mesquite meal, coconut butter, cacao beans or powder, vanilla pod or essence, cinnamon, dates, agave nectar, carob.

Nut milks for maestros

* If you make nut milks regularly but would rather not faff about with a sieve or bag and you're a gadget fan, you might consider investing in a nut milk maker. These machines are really rather groovy-looking and retail at around £59.99. The make I own is the Yaoh which is brilliant.

* If you're ready to get more out of your nut milks then consider making shakes, ice-creams, soups and dressings from them. The only difference between them all is the flavourings you choose to add and the temperature at which you serve them. But all equally lovely!

* If you've always stuck to almonds or the same nut for your nut milks, try something different. Some are bound to taste better than others, but you could always mix two or more to create something very special!

Nut milk recipes

There are some amazing nut milk recipes around these days, many of which are mine ; ) I've given you a great one in the recipe section today, but if you'd like some more you can access them here.

I look forward to hearing about your own nut milk creations! Happy Blending!

© 2009 Karen Knowler
Karen Knowler, The Raw Food Coach publishes "Successfully Raw" - a free weekly eZine for raw food lovers everywhere. If you're ready to look good, feel great and create a raw life you love get your FREE tips, tools and recipes now at www.TheRawFoodCoach.com

Inspiring before and after pictures with raw food

2009-01-30T05:53:00.000-08:00

http://www.welikeitraw.com/rawfood/raw-food-before-and-after-photos.html

Cranberry/Apple Juice

2009-01-18T12:56:00.000-08:00

Very, very easy and so tasty!

Ingredients:

Give everything a good rinse:

Put Apples & Cranberries through the juicer & ENJOY!

Almond Mylk

2009-01-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

This recipe makes 4 cups of Almond Mylk

1 cup almonds, soaked (1/2 cup before soaking)and drained
2 dates (pitted) I like medjool dates
1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:
Blend ingredients with 3 cups of pure water until well blended.
Pour through a sprout bag, cheesecloth, or a nutmilk bag to strain.
Store the mylk in a glass jar. Refrigerate. Keeps fresh for about 4 days.

I posted a recipe for vegan hot chocolate on my vegan blog www.beaveggie.blogspot.com

New way to order raw nuts & support local farmers

2009-01-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

Nora at www.rawschool.com has created a new website!
It is call Raw Treasure. You can order nuts, dates & honey from local farmer's.
Go now and check it out! www.rawtreasure.com
I ordered pistachios from Nora and they were so fresh and tasted great.

Great post by Karen Knowler - Eating Raw at Christmas

2008-12-14T05:21:00.000-08:00

The picture left is of the raw food pizza I make in all my classes (and that everyone gets to eat too!). It's also the same pizza recipe that was once seen by six million viewers live on TV being sampled by Lorraine Kelly, and it's also the same meal that I have been known to eat as my main course Christmas Day!

Yes, pizza for Christmas lunch - quite a concept!

But of course there are no end of possibilities about what we could eat this Christmas Day, however, what my concern is, in this article, is Should *You* Be Eating Raw This Christmas? Read on to discover why my question is as layered as the festive trifle!

"A Raw Christmas".

Now what's the first thing you think about when you hear those words? Be honest!

If it sounds like music to your ears then that would suggest that to have a Raw Christmas this year is what's right for you, both at the below surface level and ideally in real life. If, on the other hand, it makes you think of isolation and standing out like a sore thumb from your companions, then it will be worth reading on. And if it sounds like something truly awful that really isn't on your agenda, then you're definitely in the wrong place (at least as far as this article goes) and I congratulate you on your clarity! Happy Christmas, now go and have your fun!!

So this article is really for those of you who *think* that you'd like to be raw, but at the moment are yo-yoing all over the place between being ruled by your heart, your head, your eyes, your beliefs, your worries, and your belly! Which I think, if I know you at all, beloved readers, is where most of you are going to be right now...

Let's start at the very beginning.

What is Christmas Dinner really all about?

Well, for may people it's seen as a time to feast and celebrate the birth of Jesus and all that goes with it, isn't it? But what it has become for most of us, is a yearly habit that typically involves spending lots of money on rich foods (and drinks) that we only eat once per year and sharing the experience with family or friends - often in large groups. Going on this basis, what we have here is therefore an environment where:

a) We are surrounded (usually) by un-likeminded people

b) We are surrounded by foods that we might not have eaten or might not want to eat (intellectually speaking) in our usual every day lives

c) We know that if we do not "partake" at least to 50% of the "deal", we are going to stand out big time and that might not feel good.

Bearing all of the above in mind, then add to this the fact that by our very (human) nature, we want to be included, part of the crowd, loved completely for who we are and to share in the communal Christmas "glow" that can come with that, is it any wonder that the temptation to not eat raw is going to be stronger than most of us can bear?

My purpose in writing this article today is not to advise, map out, coach or anything else of a "prescriptive" nature. No, not at all. Today I want to pass on to you the message that, if this all sounds like where you're at, then you are definitely not alone. In fact, even I, as I go into year 16 of being into raw foods, still had "issues" with eating raw at Christmas until as recently as last year, even when I was among my closest family. Yes, most of them (if not all), STILL think I'm "extreme", and yes, it did used to make me feel uncomfortable in their presence because of it, but what feels the most uncomfortable of all is what I'm about to share with you now, and this extends way beyond Christmas Day as will become clear as you read on...

It's All About The Energy
If I have learned anything about raw foods and eating habits over the past 15 years it is that energy is at the heart and soul of what food is about. Yes, we can wax lyrical about nutrition, enzymes and calories, or talk about what's "good", "bad", "healthy" and "unhealthy", but as far as I have come to see it, this hits the dartboard but it doesn't come even close to the bulls eye.

And the fact is this: When you take food in, you take in the energy that comes with it. All matter is comprised of energy - that means you, the chair you're sitting on, the table you're eating from and the food itself as well as everything else you can see right now. Therefore when you eat, your own personal energy will automatically shift accordingly; so when you eat "unhealthy" foods you will feel worse - your vital energy will dip, and when you eat "healthy" or "good" foods you will feel better, and ultimately even more energised.

The further you go with raw foods, the more of this energy you start to feel, and the more sensitive you become to it. You really "get" that you're not just what you eat, but your experience of life is, to a larger degree than many of us even realise, a reflection of what you eat too! This means that as soon as you eat something "unhealthy" or "bad" you know it. And I don't just mean in your mind and your heart, I mean that you feel it in your body also - you sense your own shift, often startlingly so!

And so what you learn, whether it's consciously or unconsciously, is that when you eat raw foods your energy increases (and to be clear I don't necessarily mean the "jump-up-and-down" kind of energy, but mostly your sensitivity and overall vital energy shifts) and when you eat cooked foods you feel your energy go down.

Translate this information into the Christmas Day scenario we discussed earlier and let's see what we have here if you choose to eat raw:

On the surface level you have the predictable comments, questions and quite possibly the sense of isolation/ difference that comes with that. Some people thrive on this, they love being different - which is obviously a bonus! - but most people don't, and I'm one of them! Now bear in mind, that all that's JUST on the surface level. On a deeper level, energetically speaking, when you eat your raw dinner and maybe have a juice, we have your energy rising, and it's rising fast. And likely it is starting to rise in an environment where everyone is laying chilled out on the sofa, with the obligatory glass of wine or sherry in hand, watching TV and/or aren't really doing all that much! And your energy continues to rise. And their energy continues to fall.

So not only do we have your energy as raw as ever (which can be tricky even in normal everyday situations), but we have their energy dipping even lower at the same time. The gap widens even further. Big Difference.

Now what happens is that naturally you either want to go outside and burn up some of that energy (and you might if only it wasn't so damn cold!), or you want to put your energy into something productive or inspiring like fiddling with your favourite new toy, enjoying more enlightened conversations, or, quite frankly, being at home (or alone) doing what you want to do!

This becomes the reality. And whether this is conscious or not, it becomes clear pretty quickly to us now as to why it feels so tough.

So is it any wonder that the temptation to just go with the flow (now we have a better understanding of what this really means, right?!), just for this one day of the year, is one that's too hard to resist? No, not at all! And, as I said a few moments ago, I am definitely not here to tell you what to do and I won't, but what I am here to do is to help you see the reality of the situation more clearly so that you can drop any guilt that may be plaguing you, either now in the lead up, or on the actual day, and know this:

"When you dabble with raw foods you are playing at being an advanced alchemist. You can change your state in ways that others don't, and also don't understand. Trying to do this among those people is possible but not always pleasurable. When you fully get this, you can base your decision on a positive understanding of the situation and your own needs and values, rather than seeing yourself as a failure or a hypocrite.. which is completely inaccurate."

So... as I said at the beginning, this article may not be relevant to all of you, but I have a very strong feeling it will be relevant to most of you, which is why I wrote it. For my part, the year before last I took my own raw Christmas Dinner and let my parents know ahead of time that this would be the case. They were fine with it, but still I had the questions "Does that really fill you up?" and more... However, I did have game plan! I arrived at 10am and left at 3pm! This was manageable : ) And then I drove back home and did what I wanted to do - things on my terms, and followed where my energy most wanted to go (which actually translated into a lovely walk in the fresh air, playing with Luke and rolling around on the floor tickling, cuddling and laughing!). But I can tell you that there have been MANY times in my past, and my recent past too, where I have really felt this "energy gap" so massively that I have realised absolutely two things: The reality of "energy" among foods and people (and the multitudes of ways that all this can show up), and the importance of environment. Where you place yourself is absolutely key - and this comes up again and again in all fields of personal development, not just with food, and it also comes up with just about every client I work with, all of whom are usually in the wrong place, quite literally, for where their energy is trying to go.

So, if you are fortunate to be able to control your environment this Christmas and to shape your day and surroundings to the way you would like them, and eat raw, then a big hurrah for you! I expect nothing less than post-Xmas reports of "I had such a great day" and lots of smiles! But, on the other hand, if you are like me - and many thousands of other raw foodies around the globe who are doing the family thing this year - then please, be compassionate with yourself and recognise that this is the one day where things are different in so many ways (and as we have seen, not always the obvious ones) and do what you need to do - without guilt. Come from a place of knowledge and you come from a place of power.

One day is one day, and in coming weeks I'll be sharing with you some great ideas for how you can get rid of whatever you took in over the Christmas period and start 2009 all shiny and new which is I think where you'd like to be, right?

For the short term however, think energy and think compassion and hopefully this will be enough to help you make your decision, which, as always, you are entirely free to change depending on what actually happens on the day! Either way, have fun and watch how this energy thing works! It will stand you in good stead not just for Christmas, but for the rest of your entire food-conscious life.

© 2008 Karen Knowler
Karen Knowler, The Raw Food Coach publishes "Successfully Raw" - a free weekly eZine for raw food lovers everywhere. If you're ready to look good, feel great and create a raw life you love get your FREE tips, tools and recipes now at www.TheRawFoodCoach.com.

Blueberries 'reverse memory loss'

2008-12-03T04:47:00.000-08:00

Blueberries 'reverse memory loss'

Eating blueberries can reverse memory loss and may have implications in the treatment of diseases like Alzheimer's, University of Reading scientists claim.

Scientists found adding foods like blueberries to a regular diet, resulted in improvements in memory.

The foods, known as flavonoids, were historically believed to act as antioxidants in human bodies.

But the study indicates they also activate the part of the brain which controls learning and memory.

Dr Jeremy Spencer, from the department of food biosciences at the university, said: "Scientists have known of the potential health benefits of diets rich in fresh fruits for a long time.

"Our research provides scientific evidence to show that blueberries are good for you and supports the idea that a diet-based approach could potentially be used to increase memory capacity.

"We will be taking these findings to the next level by investigating the effects of diets rich in flavonoids on individuals suffering from cognitive impairment and possibly Alzheimer's disease."

The research has been published in the Free Radical Biology and Medicine journal.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/health/7450032.stm

Rich "NO" Chocolate Mousse

2008-10-31T11:52:00.000-07:00

6oz walnuts (soaked in water overnight)

4oz pine nuts (soaked in water overnight)

6oz dates (soaked in water to just cover dates)

2tbs carob powder

1/2 soft avacado (if available)

1/2 lemon (freshly juiced)

Throw away water from nuts and rinse - drain. Process walnuts and pinenuts in food processor.
Add dates, carb powder, acacado and lemon. Place in dish.
Leave in refrigerator for 2 hours or overnight.
Decorate with rasberries, strawberries or edible flowers - ENJOY!!

www.aliveraw.com

Ben Vereen on the importance of being at least 70% raw

2008-10-28T04:37:00.000-07:00

Watch This Today!!!

2008-10-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

This Guy is absolutely amazing. He went raw and has lost 200 lbs. I have been following his story for quite some time now and I am so proud of him. Now he is going to be on a national tv show today to tell his story. I have no doubt that many people will be inspired to make a healthy change in their lives after seeing what Philip has been able to do.
Before: 400 lb Currently: 205 lbs
http://thedoctorstv.com/main/show_page/43

Man Loses 200 lbs on Raw Food

2008-10-12T14:26:00.000-07:00

A Medford man goes on a raw-foods diet, and now 170 local people have signed up to follow his leadBy Sarah Lemon
Mail Tribune

Clent Manich's new diet likely sounds familiar to anyone who's tried to lose weight: Eat mostly fruits and vegetables and replace one or more meal with a shake or smoothie.

The regimen seems sensible enough until Manich gets to the part about not cooking, as in consuming everything entirely raw.

"I'm never going to eat cooked food again," says the 39-year-old Medford resident.

Losing almost 200 pounds, overcoming type-2 diabetes and enjoying the best health of his life are the only reasons Manich needs to continue on a raw-food diet that includes copious quantities of "green smoothies." Manich's dramatic transformation has convinced 170 Rogue Valley residents that they, too, can benefit from consuming blended cocktails of raw leafy greens, fruit and water during a six-week "challenge."

"I wanted to feel better," says Shirley Taylor, who works with Manich at Medford's Costco store.

Since consuming green smoothies and other raw foods five days per week over the past four months and consuming only very small portions of cooked food on the weekends, the 63-year-old Grants Pass resident says she's lost 32 pounds and no longer needs thyroid-regulating medication. It's a diet she considers long-term, not just a quick fix.

"I've tried every diet in the world and always gained it back," she says.

Because it's low in calories, a raw-food diet leads to weight loss, proponents say. They point to enzymes, however, as the diet's distinguishing factor. For food to be "raw," it can't be heated above 115 degrees, which is thought to leave vital enzymes intact. Entirely plant-based, a raw-food diet includes — in addition to fruits and vegetables — nuts, seeds, sprouted legumes and grains, cold-pressed olive oil, raw honey, apple-cider vinegar, herbs, spices and some types of salt. Most raw foods are prepared using a Vita-Mix or heavy-duty blender, a food processor, dehydrator and juicer.

His everyday diet previously consisting of Costco pizza and hotdogs, all-you-can-eat buffets and gallons of diet soda, Manich first heard the raw-food doctrine from licensed physical therapist and chiropractor Miven Donato. Manich ended up at Donato's Dophin Health and Education Center in Medford after he injured himself trying to walk off excess weight. At almost 450 pounds, Manich suffered a bout of pancreatitis in 2006, leading doctors to prescribe insulin for type-2 diabetes. He knew he needed to exercise, but suffered extreme pain in his feet and a pinched nerve in his back.

Donato thought Manich was a perfect candidate for his "healthy boot camp" with its diet of 15 percent cooked food and 85 percent raw. Within two months, Manich lost 52 pounds and stopped taking insulin. But a cruise-ship vacation with his wife, Misty, led Manich into temptation. He packed the pounds back on.

After returning to Medford, Manich received an e-mail from Donato that featured the testimonial of a woman who lost more than 100 pounds on a diet of green smoothies. This time, Manich decided to go totally raw, the only way he saw to avoid unhealthful foods. His first 100 pounds virtually melted off in a little over three months, during which he hardly exercised. Although he was hungry at first, his cravings for cooked food quickly subsided, Manich says.

"The first three weeks were horrible, and I hung in there because I knew they were just detox symptoms."

Once Manich reduced his girth to under 300 pounds, he started weight-training with Donato. In September, the two climbed California's Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 U.S. states. Believing there's no health goal he can't accomplish, Manich says he's determined to weigh 170 pounds by Christmas, which an endocrinologist told him would never happen simply because he's too old.

"He's proven quite an amazing feat," says local health educator Linda Willis, who likens weight loss to mountain-climbing.

"Very few people can climb Mount Everest."

While fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains are the base of a healthy diet, there is no scientific evidence that cooking these foods destroys nutrients, Willis says. There are so many more interesting ways to consume fruits and vegetables than to blend them up, she says, adding that it's a waste of time to try to concentrate mega doses of vitamins and minerals in a beverage.

"As soon as you start drinking your meals, you're getting off base a little bit," she says. "It doesn't work in the real world."

Willis does agree with raw-food enthusiasts, however, that one can obtain the body's required protein from plant foods. She says she also believes a proper diet can control some serious health conditions, often without the assistance of medication. Holding a doctorate degree in health education, Willis has been teaching her program "The Balanced Weigh" for the past 20 years.

"I constantly am warning people about fads and fallacies out there," she says. "He (Manich) stopped eating all the junk food ... and that's why he lost weight."

Passing trends are plenty familiar to Manich.

"I've always had these fad diets left and right," he says. "I did the Slim-Fast thing ... that was garbage.

"I did South Beach.

"I went to Weight Watchers, and it just reminded me too much of an AA program."

Although Manich acknowledges that raw-food has somewhat of a cult following — even in Medford where he frequently attends raw-food potlucks — the diet's adherents have been more interested in his health achievements than any notion of spiritual discovery, he says. Raw-food author and lecturer Victoria Boutenko, of Ashland, has appeared with Manich on a teleconference and created a Web site for the six-week "green-smoothie challenge" at www.greensmoothierevolution.com.

Confident he's found not a fad but the route to wellness, Manich nevertheless cautions emulators to consult a physician first and undergo the necessary tests to get a clear picture of their health.

"What I did may not work for everybody else."

Reach reporter Sarah Lemon at 776-4487, or e-mail slemon@mailtribune.com.
www.mailtribune.com
Brought to my attention by Steve Pavlina via Facebook :)Thanks Steve!!!

Fall Is Beautiful

2008-10-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Mama chicken with her new babies out foraging on a warm fall day.

This tree is in our driveway

Jenna Norwood's Supercharge Me

2008-10-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Just making sure everyone knows about this film, wouldn't want it to pass you by!
You can order it at: www.jennanorwood.com

Madison Loves Her Fruit

2008-10-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

Maddy enjoying her green smoothie, eating organic frozen blueberries, and grapes she found at the edge of our woods today with Papa.

Maddy's Easy Green Smoothie
2 frozen bananas (you can use fresh, not frozen if you wish)
1 cup fresh water
small handful of fresh organic baby spinach leaves
Place all in a blender and blend until smooth.

Read This Story!!! What a crazy world we live in.

2008-09-25T04:58:00.000-07:00

Raw Foodists Arrested for Trafficking Chocolate; Interrogated for "Cacao Crimes"

http://www.naturalnews.com/z024304.html

Harvest Time

2008-09-02T15:17:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow I will spend the day dehydrating tomatoes and fresh basil from the garden so we can remember the smells and taste of our garden this winter when it is below zero outside!!!

Mono Melon Smoothie from Karen Knowler

2008-08-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Melons: "Eat on their own or leave them alone", as the saying goes. Well, there's a fair amount of widom in this advice, however, have you ever drunk a melon on its own?

You haven't?!

Then may I invite you to suspend all judgment and predictions and to simply introduce your melon to the blender and see what magic occurs? It really is a match made in heaven...

Ingredients:
* 1 ripe melon of your choice [Galia is my favourite melon for this recipe]

Directions
1) Simply cut your melon in half and spoon the ripe flesh out of the skin, putting the seeds to one side. If you are serving one person, half a melon will be enough, unless that person (probably you!) is very hungry!

2) Blend your melon on high speed until no lumps remain - this is your smoothie!

3) Pour into a tall glass, find a cosy corner, relax . . . and sip silently - if you can!

RAW COACH'S TOP TIPS:

* You could try adding one other fruit to this smoothie to give it a gentle twist, such as a few strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries. This will make for a stunning looking drink as well as new tastes to delight you and your guests.

* This is a great breakfast as it is just fruit. If drinking this at any other time of day, to avoid gas and bloating you must drink on an empty stomach, as all fruits digest the quickest of all foods, but melon is the fastest -and when blended faster still! So wait at least 3 hours after eating your last meal to drink this - hence the breakfast suggestion!

* This one won't keep well in the fridge, so best to drink it as soon as possible. Why wait anyhow?!
Karen Knowler, The Raw Food Coach publishes "Successfully Raw" - a free weekly eZine for raw food lovers everywhere. If you're ready to look good, feel great and create a raw life you love get your FREE tips, tools and recipes now at www.TheRawFoodCoach.com.

Do It Now

2008-08-04T05:07:00.000-07:00

If you have hard work to do, do it now. Today the skies are clear and blue, tomorrow clouds may come in view, Yesterday is not for you, do it now.

If you have a song to sing, sing it now. Let the tones of gladness ring, Clear as the song of the bird in spring, Let every day some music bring, sing it now.

If you have kind words to say, say them now. Tomorrow may not come your way, Do a kindness while you may, loved ones will not always stay, say them now.

If you have a smile to show, show it now. Make hearts happy, roses grow, Let the friends around you know the love you have before they go, show it now.

The Book Of Good Cheer, 1916

Are you and your family being poisoned?

2008-07-23T04:49:00.000-07:00

http://www.foodmatters.tv/hidden-ingredients.html

Chocolate Smoothie - by Karen Knowler

2008-06-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Living Tip

2008-06-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

Battery Facts

1. One rechargeable battery can replace up to 1,000 disposable batteries.
2. According to the EPA, Americans purchase 3,000,000,000 (three billion) batteries every year.
3. For pollution-free recharging, choose "green electricity" (made in Maine from hydropower and wind facilities). Or choose a battery charger with a built-in solar panel or adapters for plugging in to a solar panel.
4. Small disposable alkaline batteries (sizes AAA, AA, C and D) start at above 1.5 volts and drop unevenly to 1.0 volts during discharge, whereas nickel metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries stay at a relatively constant 1.2 volts for most of their discharge cycle.
5. A nine volt battery is six smaller 1.5 volt batteries wired in series.
6. Older types of NiMH rechargeable batteries would self-discharge at about 1% per day, requiring frequent recharges. Newer NiMH batteries lose only about 0.07% of their charge per day, making them much more practical for many uses.
7. NiMH rechargeable batteries are qualified as non-hazardous.
8. Lithium ion rechargeable batteries (typically used in laptops and cell phones) are also qualified as non-hazardous.
9. The older nickel cadmium (NiCad) rechargeable batteries are hazardous and must be disposed of as household hazardous waste. Avoid this type of battery if possible.
10. Lead acid rechargeable batteries (typically used in cars and uninterruptible power supplies) are hazardous and should be recycled.
11. Disposable alkaline batteries manufactured before 1996 could contain mercury and should be considered potentially hazardous.

Making Green Smoothies Your Kids Will Love

2008-05-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

This video comes from Green Smoothie Girl.

Dancing With Your Inner Child

2008-05-25T17:23:00.001-07:00

2008-05-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

Almost Time To Plant The Garden In Maine

2008-05-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

Maddy Is Walking!!!

2008-05-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

My grandbaby Maddy started walking this past Tuesday! Isn't she sweet?!

Visit Your Local Farmer's Market

2008-05-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Most of the Market's are opening this month in our area, Maine. We have to go ALL winter searching for fresh produce. I love this time of year because you can actually get fresh produce that is locally grown and organic. There is such a taste difference between grocery store produce and produce fresh from the farm that morning.

Plants For Clean Air

2008-05-07T05:43:00.000-07:00

Houseplants absorb common household gases like ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde. What an easy way to improve the quality of the air you breathe inside!

Welcome to the world Beau

2008-05-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

My nephew Beau was born this morning!

Wood Seed Starter Boxes

2008-04-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

My husband came up with these great seed starter boxes made from natural wood, they are an alternative to the usual plastic sectioned seedling trays. They have drainage slats in the bottom and should last for years.
Another way to say NO to plastic and keep it out of the landfills.
These are also available to purchase. For ordering info email littleladsbasket@yahoo.com

Bug Repellent Recipe

2008-04-23T04:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a recipe for an all natural bug repellent to use while working in your yard

4 drops eucalyptus essential oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
4 drops tea tree essential oil
2 teaspoons witch hazel
8 teaspoons distilled water

Combine all essential oils and distilled water in a dark colored spray bottle and shake well. Spray mixture directly on exposed skin. Be careful to not spray near the eyes or mouth.

www.therawdivas.com

Celebrate Earth Day

2008-04-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Just a few tips in honor of Earth Day

1. Donate used computers instead of sending them into landfills.
2. Install a low-flow shower head.
3. Wash clothes in cold water.
4. Try using cloth diapers even if it is part-time.
5. Put a timer in the bathroom to remind you to take shorter showers.
6. Take excess weight out of your car to save gas.
7. Keep your tires inflated to the proper level.
8. Eliminate impulse spending.

Tomorrow is Earth Day - Here is a green tip

2008-04-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Catalog Choice (http://wwwwww. catalogchoice. org

Tired of junk mail? This link helps you to not receive
unwanted catalogs.

Spring in Maine - Finally

2008-04-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Dreamsicle Shake

2008-04-15T04:45:00.000-07:00

milk and meat of young Thai coconut
2 frozen bananas
3 dates
juice of a ripe navel orange (just hand squeezed straight from orange into blender)
1 Tbs honey
1 tsp vanilla
ice

Place all ingredients, except ice, in blender and blend til smooth! Add ice cubes gradually until desired consistency reached.

This is just like those Dreamsicle ice cream bars we ate as kids! YUM!!!

- from Michelle Reeves, From SAD to RAW

I tried this and absolutely LOVED it. -Laura

Amazing "Raw" Peanut Sauce

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

(Makes 2 cups)

1 cup raw and creamy almond butter (MaraNatha or other good brand)
2 tablespoons fresh ginger
1/2 cup water (to thin)
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup maple syrup
3 tablespoons Nama Shoyu
4 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled
1/2 jalapeño pepper

Blend all ingredients at high speed until smooth.

The dressing will become thicker after a few days in the fridge.
Add water when needed.

It is truly amazing as a salad dressing. You can also use this sauce
as a dip for carrots and other vegetables, or a sauce on cooked
vegetables.

This dressing will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator.

(From The Raw Food Detox Diet by Natalia Rose)

The Adventures of Rawman & Green-Girl

2008-03-31T12:35:00.001-07:00

I just had to pass this along. It is a cute and must see animation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lzWVk2eKmA
They also have created a website as well.
http://www.rawmanandgreengirl.com

Stuffed Dates Snack

2008-03-31T11:43:00.000-07:00

Super easy snack recipe - Only 3 ingredients

Dates (preferably Medjool)
Almond Butter
Whole Raw Almonds

Carefully slit dates with a sharp knife to remove pit.
Fill date with 1/2 tsp. almond butter, then gently press a whole almond into the date.

Why Babies Should NOT Eat Cereal

2008-03-28T07:50:00.001-07:00

We have always believed that as soon as you start a baby on cereal they sleep better, grow better, etc. Sometimes it is important to question advice given to us by our family, well meaning friends, pediatricians, etc.

Babies have no ptyalin, the enzyme necessary to break down starches, until around the age of eighteen months. They cannot metabolize starches before this age. This also includes bread, cereal, potatoes, cookies and chips. All of these foods "clog up" our babies. These foods make excess mucous in children which is why you see so many little ones running around with runny noses!!! Babies over 6 months of age should be eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and of course mother's milk.

Wealth of Information Just By Clicking on The Natual Hygiene Link Below

2008-03-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Ponder This...

2008-03-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

How is a man who is already sick to be made less so by swallowing a substance that would sicken, even kill him if he were to take it in a state of health? ~Herbert M Shelton, Natural Hygiene 1968

Pat's Raw Broccoli Soup

2008-03-25T05:26:00.001-07:00

Pat, who lives in New Jersey, had this to say about her recipe: “Raw and absolutely delicious!”

3 cups distilled water
1 cup raw almonds (soak in distilled water overnight and drain)
1 teaspoon honey
2 cups chopped broccoli
1 avocado
1 clove garlic
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon chopped onion
1 teaspoon Celtic Sea Salt (to taste)
½ teaspoon cumin
pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste)

Blend water, almonds, and honey until smooth. Then add in the rest of the ingredients and blend until creamy. ENJOY!

*ORGANIC INGREDIENTS ARE ALWAYS RECOMMENDED.

Go Raw Now Trailer

2008-03-08T18:19:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3xOU2tLl7g

Green Smoothies

2008-03-02T12:34:00.001-08:00

Green smoothies are getting lots of attention these days, and with good reason.
They are packed with lots and lots of good-for-yous.

They are super easy to make, easy to take to work, school, or anywhere.

One of the easiest recipes for green smoothies:

3 frozen bananas
1 1/2 cups pure water
handful of washed organic baby spinach

Give all three a whirl in the blender and enjoy. This is a great snack for little ones.

Give your digestive system this simple test

2008-02-24T10:08:00.001-08:00

If you want to find out how efficient your digestive system is at moving things through, drink a small amount of beet juice (best if mixed with carrot or apple juice) and count the number of hours it takes before your stools appear reddish. Beet juice is a powerful liver cleanser.

Beets are a great source of Vitamin C, Iron & Magnesium. They also contain a good amount of dietary fiber, Folate, Potassium and Manganese.

Almond-tahini dressing

2008-02-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

1 tbsp. raw almond butter
1 tbsp. raw tahini (sesame seed butter)
6 oz. fresh apple juice

Combine all ingredients in a glass jar. Cover tightly and shake until thoroughly mixed. Keep in the fridge. Will be fresh for up to four days.

2008-02-18T17:51:00.001-08:00

Great Vaccine link - please read

2008-02-18T17:49:00.001-08:00

http://www.momsagainstmercury.org

http://www.whale.to/vaccines.html

Scroll all the way down to see great quotes from physicians and cartoons that will make you think twice about letting your precious child be injected with these horrible ingredients.

2008-02-11T17:24:00.001-08:00

Play with a child. There are only 6,574 days between a child’s birth and their eighteenth birthday. Don’t waste a single one.

2008-02-11T17:19:00.001-08:00

t takes courage to be healthy! It takes courage to experience the freedom that comes with this autonomy. It takes guts to choose something authentic over disapproval and to choose it time and time again. Have the courage to accept the responsibility for your own choice. Have the courage to be the very unique person you really are! We are always willing to pay someone togive us our health. We must instead, as Health Seekers, learn to do it for ourselves!! ~Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

2008-02-11T17:14:00.001-08:00

I HAVE long and publicly taught the doctrine that, as a general proposition, man causes his own sickness and suffering-that in almost all cases, he is more or less to blame for being sick, and that he as truly owes society an apology for being sick as he does for being drunk.
--Sylvester Graham, July 13, 1884

2008-02-04T17:19:00.001-08:00

Fear of Raw Food

By Victoria & Valya Boutenko

Victoria: Ever since I can remember myself, I always loved to eat. I had a good appetite and mealtimes were always pleasant for me. Both my parents and my nanny cheerfully complemented me if I finished everything on my plate, so I decided that eating was a great merit and this was my first dietary lesson: the more one eats, the better.
When I was about five years old and my parents took me to a day care, I remember how shocked I was to meet some children that didn’t like to eat, who were sitting and sobbing for a long time at the table, refusing to finish their plates. As a punishment, teachers didn’t let those children play and insisted that they stayed at the table until their plates were empty. I felt so much sympathy for my friend Nina who couldn’t finish her plate of porridge that I often I would trade her full plate with my empty one when the teachers were not watching. I gladly ate her porridge as well as my own.

One day, when I missed the ball in a game and had to step out, I made a curious observation: the children who didn’t like to eat had a light body constitution, and the ones who ate well, were a lot heavier. I realized that there was a conflict between the events in reality and the preachings of my parents and teachers. As I watched the children on the playground I saw that it was noticeably more challenging for the heavier children to run around than it was for the ones who were lighter. At the time, grown-ups represented an impeccable authority to me, so I decided they could not be mistaken and continued to eat as they instructed me to. Adults told me that if I wanted to grow, I had to eat “well” and I didn’t question them in this matter.

As a result of the dietary habits I acquired as a child, I went through a lot of pain and despair in my life. It took me almost 50 years to discover a healthy way of eating. Even though I now feel vibrantly healthy, I still realize that too much of my life force has been wasted on fighting un-necessary illnesses caused by wrong eating habits set up in my childhood. I often wonder how I would look and feel if I had led the lifestyle I lead today from the beginning of my childhood.

Valya: I realize how fortunate I have been to be introduced to a healthy lifestyle at an early age. I often wonder where I would be today if I hadn’t changed my way of living. I was born with asthma. Almost every other night I was unable to sleep due to an inability to breathe. I was told that I would have asthma for the rest of my life and I watched with dread as it continued to steadily worsen every year. Besides my complicated breathing condition, all of my early days I constantly suffered with multiple allergies, colds and earaches.

When I was eight, my family and I began eating 100% raw food. Since the day I changed my diet, I have never experienced another asthmatic attack again. I am so happy to no longer be hindered by my former illnesses. Every day I enjoy brilliant health! I’m deeply grateful to my parents for helping me change my eating habits and encouraging me to understand the value of being healthy. Great health is truly the greatest gift a parent can give to a child.

Victoria: I remember how I cried all through the night in my kitchen when the doctor pronounced that my son had juvenile diabetes. I cried loudly and hopelessly, not willing to accept my son’s sad destiny to live with this sickness. My grandmother had had this same illness and she passed away unexpectedly from an overdose of insulin. It seemed like a miracle had blessed my family when my husband and I found a lifestyle that helped our son reverse his symptoms. Now that he is a healthy and quite happy 20 years old, it is now safe for me to share one other side of our family’s life that we have never spoken about before. At certain times on our journey, neighbors, co-workers, other children’s parents and some friends, have frowned upon us for our radical change of lifestyle. Both Igor and I spent countless sleepless nights in doubts, carefully rethinking whether we were doing the right thing feeding our children this “cookless” diet. There were so many things that we didn’t know at that time and there was nobody in all the world to ask for advice. Often we had to learn by trial and error. We were continuing mainly because we had great results. Three months after becoming all raw, my family ran a 10K race Bolder Boulder, that was an unbelievable achievement for every one of us and served as a confirmation that we were on the right track. Today I appreciate that, in spite of all resistance towards our lifestyle, my family has continued staying on a raw food diet. Together with Valya we are working on a new book called “Inspiring Children to Eat Healthy” where we are sharing many tips that my family has collected over time. We believe that all people should have the opportunity to heal themselves and live free of disease.

Valya: There have been several occasions when our neighbors have called social services on my parents, claiming that they were not feeding or clothing my brother and me. On one such occasion, my brother and I were home alone when a stern looking lady with a clipboard stopped by our house. When she knocked, we answered the door together. She introduced herself and asked us how old we were. We told her that Sergei was eleven, and I was ten. She could tell for herself that we were well clothed and were definitely not starving to death. “What did you have for lunch dear?” she asked my brother. Sergei sensed that this was an odd question for such a lady to ask, because she did not seem like the type to be at all interested in health food. So instead of explaining that we had been eating only fresh, organic live foods for two years and that each of us had gotten rid of our awful illnesses and that we were working on perfecting a raw lasagna recipe, he decided to tell her this: “We just came back from McDonalds where we each had a Big Mack with Fries.” This answer seemed to satisfy the lady, because she said, “Oh, okay then honey. You two have an nice evening now.” And then she left, never to be heard from again.

I did not think much of this incident until my parents came home that evening. When we told them about the strange questions we were asked they looked at each other and I could tell they were scared. They were relieved that my brother had said what he did. They warned us to do the same thing in other similar situations so that we would not be taken from them for any ridiculous reasons.

Victoria: When I heard about the story of the Andressohn family, who had their four children taken away from them for feeding them live foods, I felt obligated to give them as much support as possible. I donated a box of my books to the auction on their behalf, and Sergei and Valya have written letters to the judge. If you haven’t heard about this case, go to the following website for the most accurate information: http://www.rawfriends..com/andressohns.html I encourage everyone to support them in any way.

Valya: Now that I am 19 years old, I am wondering about my future children: will I have to feed them at McDonalds to make sure they stay with me? Will I have to hide my children in order to keep them as healthy as I am? Even official resources criticize the standard American diet for causing obesity and sickness.

Victoria: When I hear that feeding a child good, healthy organic food is called abuse, I realize that the organizations that protect children’s rights urgently need nutritional education. Yet, I wouldn’t justify separating a child from his or her parents, even if they fed this child nothing but TV dinners and candy, which have been scientifically proven to be the main cause of most degenerative disease. Being a mother myself I know that nobody in the world cares for children more than their own mother and father. That is why I believe that if parents would clearly see that feeding their children processed food results in poor health, many of parents would encourage their children to eat better. I am glad to see a lot of scientific research done recently in the world. Even our new food pyramid has been changed towards eating more fruits and vegetables. The raw food diet is becoming very popular in every state and country. I would like to inspire my readers to support the Andressohn family so that they win their case. This case is being widely covered by the media and will definitely shift the mainstream attitude towards alternative eating. It is an opportunity to help all children become healthier without fear.

www.rawfamily.com

Fresh Juice

2008-01-20T07:43:00.001-08:00

I am going to be making some different juice combinations today. Every now and then it feels good to just have a day of juicing. It give the digestive system a rest.

This is a good juice for those just getting started:
apples
carrots
celery

Use as much of each as you like. Just remember, it is best to only make as much juice as you can drink right away. You lose precious vitamins the longer it sits around. :)

2008-01-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

“Anything one does every day is important and imposing and anywhere one lives is interesting and beautiful.” --Gertrude Stein

Your Raw Diet 2008 ~ Designed by YOU!

2008-01-12T05:51:00.000-08:00

Now two weeks into the New Year, chances are that you're just starting to get into your groove with life and work, and thus can finally begin to turn your attention to your diet.

Did you go raw or stay raw over the holidays or did it all fall by the wayside and now you're feeling it?

Either way, now is the perfect time to get clear on how you want to move forward in your raw life for the coming months, and the following exercise based on one taught to me by Prof Rozalind Graham is an excellent tool for helping you come to clarity, to create boundaries and to finding a place of peace with your food choices because they've been designed 100% by you!

What to do...

All you need to do is take a clean sheet of paper, ideally A4 size, and draw either a fairly large circle in the middle of the page or draw around the hand that you normally write with (this, you will note, is also likely the hand that feeds you!) When you're done, next draw a circle around the first circle/hand that allows at least an inch of space to write some more words in, then another and another, so that you have two more circles around that circle at least 1 inch apart from each other. You should end up with three outer rings and a middle area.

When you've got your circles, starting in the middle and working out list what foods, drinks etc. fall into the following categories:

1) Middle area: List all those foods you are 100% happy to eat as everyday staples to your diet
2) Next circle out: List those foods that you wouldn't ideally eat on a daily basis but if you did you wouldn't feel at all bad about it
3) Next circle out: List those foods that you wouldn't eat UNLESS you were really stuck and there was nothing else to have
4) Final circle: All those foods that you won't eat under any circumstances from this moment forward

Feel better?

Clarity is a good thing and this exercise will really help you to get clear on what's important to you and why. It also may get you thinking more or seeing things that you didn't before. Feel free to spend some time on this as what you write here can make or break your health and body goals in 2008.

When you're done, now that it's there in front of you, of course now all you have to do is stick to your own rules! So pin this up somewhere that you'll see it most of the day or fold it up and carry it around in your pocket or bag, and see how you get along for the next week or so. When you set your own rules it's a lot more healthy and fun than following someone else's idea of what's good for you and you're much less inclined to break them.

As an aside, if you're a parent or carer you can use this exercise to show others who feed your child or loved one what's okay and not. By colour coding the areas as well as being very clear with your wording you can much increase the likelihood of someone doing as you ask as it will be so clearly laid out in front of them. (You could even use it in a restaurant if you wanted to!)

Cheers to clarity and to a healthy and happy body in 2008! © 2008 Karen Knowler

Karen Knowler, The Raw Food Coach publishes "Successfully Raw" - a free weekly eZine for raw food lovers everywhere. If you're ready to look good, feel great and create a raw life you love get your FREE tips, tools and recipes now at www.TheRawFoodCoach .com.

Guacamole Dip

2008-01-10T16:20:00.001-08:00

by Rhonda of Hallelujah Acres

2 very ripe avocados
2 Tbsp. onion, chopped fine
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 red pepper, cut fine
1/2 green pepper, cut fine
1 medium ripe tomato, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped fine
1 Tbsp. lime or lemon juice

Halve the avocados, remove pits and scoop flesh into a glass container. Mash with a fork and blend in remaining ingredients. Serve as quickly as possible. Serve w/ fresh veggies.

Recipe courtesy of Hallelujah Acres

Get more recipes from Rhonda in her new book:
Recipes for Life... from God's Garden

My new favorite smoothie

2008-01-09T17:03:00.000-08:00

I bought a raw food DVD a couple of weeks ago, and
it was great!!!
The recipes shown in the DVD are simple to do and taste great.
This one really caught my eye so I tried it the very next morning.

I use 2 frozen bananas
1 orange, peeled
3/4 cup frozen blueberries
large handful of romaine lettuce

All ingredients are organic,
just add everything to the blender and give it a whirl.
The sweetness of the fruit totally masks the taste of the greens. You can use any type of greens you like.

The DVD is called, Raw Food Made Easy, by Jennifer Cornbleet.

The Longevity Game

2008-01-08T13:47:00.000-08:00

Try this!!! Answer all questions truthfully.

http://www.nmfn. com/tn/learnctr- -lifeevents- -longevity