tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007674497472758252024-03-18T20:45:20.379-07:00Art and Lifestyle BlogUntil my kids were born I had no idea how much of a life changing experience parenting would be. A complete reboot; my life as a mom has been challenging and incredibly rewarding. This blog is all about rediscovering childhood and adventures in parenting, as well as arts and crafting, DIY ideas, cooking, lifestyle and beauty.
Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-63305354006550524452016-02-14T15:24:00.001-08:002016-02-14T20:39:15.645-08:00My Peak ChallengeAs a huge fan of the Outlander book series by Diana Gabaldon, I was pretty excited when the tv series came out on Starz last year. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_EQWUIN53JgRp_EXWExi4Fi89-yLFfrjCcpLqodpn93bVCFjNDY7H4FEDAd38b-xssGtiRHfqUP3qyYcDC2mOrsuIkLQJYlC6E3DThFbKFRVfvr8Kw8oItNUQX3FEsTIRvBxLgLJLbYg/s640/blogger-image-1865806929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_EQWUIN53JgRp_EXWExi4Fi89-yLFfrjCcpLqodpn93bVCFjNDY7H4FEDAd38b-xssGtiRHfqUP3qyYcDC2mOrsuIkLQJYlC6E3DThFbKFRVfvr8Kw8oItNUQX3FEsTIRvBxLgLJLbYg/s640/blogger-image-1865806929.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>This is a painting I did inspired by #Outlander - clearly a bit of an obsessed fan girl! But in all seriousness, the book series are probably some of the best books I've ever read.<br><div><br></div><div>Of course I started getting my fan girl chops on and following the Outlander cast on social media like every other obsessive fan girl. In the process I learned that swoon worthy Sam Heughan, the Scottish actor who plays the role of Jamie Fraser, has created a fitness challenge that helps fundraise money to support a charity organization called Bloodwise which helps support blood cancer research.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6329O5HGd1KKN8wx5VZ57BwplMmk_xei3-9LT2CNXvzwGEWRs08uPTrvwMoa2mqkt8UfD5OROvQopczH5CrvuDDn2OEQaeUTsYEAp7e92ty8aYiemhJaS0Apaim9Ds6HuxOLTH3RyOg0/s640/blogger-image--2061148249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6329O5HGd1KKN8wx5VZ57BwplMmk_xei3-9LT2CNXvzwGEWRs08uPTrvwMoa2mqkt8UfD5OROvQopczH5CrvuDDn2OEQaeUTsYEAp7e92ty8aYiemhJaS0Apaim9Ds6HuxOLTH3RyOg0/s640/blogger-image--2061148249.jpg"></a></div>Here's a promo pic for the program featuring Sam Heughan - super fit (and extremely good looking) guy who climbs mountains and runs marathons. Not sure I'm even close to that level - but I am excited about my goals!<br><div><br></div><div>I became interested in what he was doing, and after connecting with a lot of fantastic Outlander fans who were participating in the challenge, I decided to set my own fitness goals and give it a go. </div><div><br></div><div>The program is called My Peak Challenge and it encourages participants to set their own health and fitness goals while connecting with others in the community. </div><div><br></div><div><a href="http://www.mpc2016.com/products/my-peak-challenge-2016">http://www.mpc2016.com/products/my-peak-challenge-2016</a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I'm fairly excited about it! I wanted to join last year but I had just had a baby and didn't feel ready to jump head first into a fitness challenge with a newborn and another toddler at home.</div><div><br></div><div>Anyway / my youngest is now 14 months old so now I feel ready to be a part of the #MyPeakPosse #BearStength community. I just signed up for the My Peak Challenge Prep Program and ordered a My Peak Challenge starter pack - which comes with a really cute t-shirt.</div><div><br></div><div>First things first, I need to set my goals. I'm happy to say that I already did a weight loss challenge shortly after my daughter was born and I have been back to my pre-baby weight for several months now. So now that I am feeling good about my weight, I am ready to set some more challenging fitness goals.</div><div><br></div><div>Sam provides some awesome fitness tutorial videos, nutrition tips and a course plan. I'm hoping to follow along with the workouts and as much of the plan as I can. </div><div><br></div><div>Since I have a crazy schedule with my kids I'm making my pledge realistic for me to follow - So here is my plan and My Peak Pledge:</div><div><span style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">mypeakchallenge #mypeakpledge</span></div><div><font color="#454545" face="UICTFontTextStyleBody"><span style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></span></font></div><div><font color="#454545" face="UICTFontTextStyleBody"><span style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></span></font><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will attend my cardio barre class at least once a week</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will go for a long walk/ hike with my daughter at least once a week</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- nutrition goals - I will eat at least 2 servings of fruits and vegetables daily</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- Follow along with the program and make adjustments to fit my schedule and fitness level</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will focus on core strength and toning my butt and legs by doing at least 2 sets of squats (15 each set) and 2 sets of bicycle crunches on at least 3 days of the week.</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will work hard to increase my daily water intake and carry my water bottle with me everywhere.</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- maintain my current weight and improve my muscle tone, energy levels, strength, flexibility and nutrition</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will limit my intake of alcohol and chocolate to no more than 2 glasses of wine or beer a week and no more than 3 small servings of chocolate a week</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">- I will log on to myfitnesspal every day until May 1st to track my progress</div></div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Okay! Let's do this!</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div><br></div></div></div>Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-24109081993105162632015-08-19T16:34:00.001-07:002015-08-23T14:23:36.392-07:00Trader Joe's Breaded Cod - Easy DinnerWhen I want something quick, easy and healthy for dinner I will often go to my freezer and get out some Trader Joe's frozen breaded cod fillets, which I always have in my freezer. They only take 20 minutes to bake in the oven and while they are baking I make a quick homemade (no mayo) tarter sauce and some sautéed spinach and tomato. It's so easy and super delicious!<div><br></div><div>This meal is jam packed with protein and vitamins - I love it and I always feel great after eating it.<div><br></div><div>Home made tarter sauce:</div><div>- 2 heaping tablespoons of sour cream</div><div>- 1 teaspoon of capers</div><div>- 1 teaspoon Siracha sauce</div><div>- chopped chives</div><div>- a squeeze of lemon</div><div>- 1 teaspoon horseradish </div><div><br></div><div>Just mix it all together - add a little salt and some garlic powder - yummy!</div><div><br></div><div>Then after I make the sauce I just heat a sauté pan with some olive oil, add some largely chopped tomato and let cool for 3 or 4 minutes. Then I add some fresh spinach leaves, add a dash of salt and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes. </div><div><br></div><div>Next I plate the spinach and tomatoes. Then I take the cod out of the oven and onto my plate, spoon some tarter sauce over the top, and Voila, a delicious and healthy dinner or lunch.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX36zEyDf9xIG25Mmfe1TjsceqGZUI2KFEBU3imQDthKFTSNzmRu7qnmfBA4YWKSTs6gAS4V2OSD6jQ33k57ltqvm3QCinxapvs7fil3YEeYkDHyuh-uT6RpTaBlBxW-ug5wYACm-R1k/s640/blogger-image--703145167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX36zEyDf9xIG25Mmfe1TjsceqGZUI2KFEBU3imQDthKFTSNzmRu7qnmfBA4YWKSTs6gAS4V2OSD6jQ33k57ltqvm3QCinxapvs7fil3YEeYkDHyuh-uT6RpTaBlBxW-ug5wYACm-R1k/s640/blogger-image--703145167.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div>This is my go to meal when I want some serious vitamin power!</div>Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-43129320102400920572015-08-19T09:43:00.001-07:002015-08-19T10:39:53.594-07:00Quick and Easy Shepherds PieOccasionally at our house we eat a big lamb steak with mashed potatoes and baby broccoli for dinner. It's one of my favorites - but lamb can be really expensive so we don't have it that often.<div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3wzJ6CgNuqtO7sF-VgpTOsJMz-kVEVlGrzyWqrk0byffF-Wdxec3Au6IJr7zv_d6bG_ROkK4dqFmBnUw2wCDexnlMOcrjQ38Zt-B7FEXa3f1Le8Dp_9by9FTEOGDzMok_Hr9pC6Jep8/s640/blogger-image-1070128858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3wzJ6CgNuqtO7sF-VgpTOsJMz-kVEVlGrzyWqrk0byffF-Wdxec3Au6IJr7zv_d6bG_ROkK4dqFmBnUw2wCDexnlMOcrjQ38Zt-B7FEXa3f1Le8Dp_9by9FTEOGDzMok_Hr9pC6Jep8/s640/blogger-image-1070128858.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Here is the left over lamb steak from the night before...<br> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbupsqfIza0mqJq3dvJznuw-39fjQgc4Q2UOw7LQrH7VaohLPbgrElW9oN0KQw0-ucluF9xDFdyVbRS6wsMB1O-y2am2vwShS5FZrHbTm-ZGFAE3JcWz5TGctYweXSfv22CvCY6QN88s/s640/blogger-image-1269256695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbupsqfIza0mqJq3dvJznuw-39fjQgc4Q2UOw7LQrH7VaohLPbgrElW9oN0KQw0-ucluF9xDFdyVbRS6wsMB1O-y2am2vwShS5FZrHbTm-ZGFAE3JcWz5TGctYweXSfv22CvCY6QN88s/s640/blogger-image-1269256695.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Usually we end up with a lot of left overs and instead of eating the exact same thing the next night, I like to mix it up and make a super quick and easy shepherds pie using the left over lamb and potatoes.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIklZk56DZgm2e5hvXOYyyo_Js1QTmLZkVM1g47hnJCWfU-5cZTDYk4iwdVV1-zET-_jatg99VZR5wbDkhtNdzAIzFaydIszlKZQgxZqViy_B383zGJFaHhNjK5mYa3gaRiFxa1jFnuKA/s640/blogger-image-1568967825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIklZk56DZgm2e5hvXOYyyo_Js1QTmLZkVM1g47hnJCWfU-5cZTDYk4iwdVV1-zET-_jatg99VZR5wbDkhtNdzAIzFaydIszlKZQgxZqViy_B383zGJFaHhNjK5mYa3gaRiFxa1jFnuKA/s640/blogger-image-1568967825.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>It's so delicious - it could almost be better than having the lamb steaks. </div><div><br></div><div>Ingredients:</div><div>- half a pound of left over cooked lamb steak - chopped into small chunks </div><div>- 1.5 cups of left over mashed potatoes</div><div>- 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese</div><div>- half an onion diced</div><div>- 1 celery stalk diced</div><div>- 1/4 cup of chopped carrot</div><div>- 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen peas</div><div>- 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped</div><div>- 2 small tomatoes finely chopped (or can of diced tomatoes)</div><div>- 1 tablespoon tomato paste</div><div>- water or stock</div><div>- salt, pepper, dried oregano and some chili flakes</div><div>- olive oil and a little butter</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSgmREgs2xII4TvIhMTuOO79CO3uJSmr1YFFjxrEGLzSBlzVWfr1o5bJqOHXRAQuxZ1FGyg9m_h_TuyM0kHlwKBgq-R6bDrs30D5RAoECGDZahi38F0mjzrT9r1onjPCYJbh8c1RntcE/s640/blogger-image-1932607302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSgmREgs2xII4TvIhMTuOO79CO3uJSmr1YFFjxrEGLzSBlzVWfr1o5bJqOHXRAQuxZ1FGyg9m_h_TuyM0kHlwKBgq-R6bDrs30D5RAoECGDZahi38F0mjzrT9r1onjPCYJbh8c1RntcE/s640/blogger-image-1932607302.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>First I assemble all the ingredients starting with chopping the veggies. I put all the onion, celery and carrots together since they take the longest to cook. </div><div>Then once they are all chopped, I put them in a sauté pan on medium heat with a little olive oil and a teaspoon of butter.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19aiskfQoBFlGUdAIL1sALJOACKmxy96Q0mT7Y_QHdawfRxcVZKxe6gdkRMweZy5bUL83DzTo9IHTpW0760DqYAu-WxCVc0KpgM5VE5qM3c_U_cHVlGQtAyfQ3FkY3wd2mC7xJL4ku8M/s640/blogger-image-897182660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19aiskfQoBFlGUdAIL1sALJOACKmxy96Q0mT7Y_QHdawfRxcVZKxe6gdkRMweZy5bUL83DzTo9IHTpW0760DqYAu-WxCVc0KpgM5VE5qM3c_U_cHVlGQtAyfQ3FkY3wd2mC7xJL4ku8M/s640/blogger-image-897182660.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>While that is cooking I prep all the other ingredients.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CfKOFFjSbGwR_VQzlrrm-aNl7maR8vvPZ3t1TJQZld4gXQOcgoSBFxIcHF4SEETq4GXoIZk3z17AzMxrvRnB7B6e1jID3bVAVE6Vi-U2cBcZ3OeQbkggpfmuFGMCXwo23pNvDlYzqA8/s640/blogger-image-120698045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CfKOFFjSbGwR_VQzlrrm-aNl7maR8vvPZ3t1TJQZld4gXQOcgoSBFxIcHF4SEETq4GXoIZk3z17AzMxrvRnB7B6e1jID3bVAVE6Vi-U2cBcZ3OeQbkggpfmuFGMCXwo23pNvDlYzqA8/s640/blogger-image-120698045.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Next, after the veggies have cooked for about 5 minutes or so the tomato paste will go in.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xnTdRi2Q94P6xXyXly38lpEeXVvZBYIk4z137WEUhfZO6vYcXr7I5ZyMgTyqxYVZMHBUkJL88yl6P7Vwg2UTrrX-MH-X9Z4Lrb7CPEc_czp8LpdqRQebHv491-ffk1vdxC-5IQWvrGY/s640/blogger-image-1892576028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xnTdRi2Q94P6xXyXly38lpEeXVvZBYIk4z137WEUhfZO6vYcXr7I5ZyMgTyqxYVZMHBUkJL88yl6P7Vwg2UTrrX-MH-X9Z4Lrb7CPEc_czp8LpdqRQebHv491-ffk1vdxC-5IQWvrGY/s640/blogger-image-1892576028.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Meanwhile I am still prepping...</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJULjyU774rdMmQfkKAWGiQfkagwWgfB0na7yLCtvmK1AdEFjYFgjUiPc-Ve4hlCIUqrpbFTvA0_FSkEoGx4fKaozRYPdbYD-rrCx-8-C9AWMMczvcbus_eLJLhavjhSktpQYykfqDuE/s640/blogger-image-134173931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJULjyU774rdMmQfkKAWGiQfkagwWgfB0na7yLCtvmK1AdEFjYFgjUiPc-Ve4hlCIUqrpbFTvA0_FSkEoGx4fKaozRYPdbYD-rrCx-8-C9AWMMczvcbus_eLJLhavjhSktpQYykfqDuE/s640/blogger-image-134173931.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Then I stir around the tomato paste until it is well combined. About this time I preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kwxWEYHAoxoPj73hhGTQqE9UP5BRernIAY2BdKvlVoydN1pg6nqVCvF27NVXgAtuXV1bixKryRnL6e3bE10-6bO7VsbQRWeA8Z2GyGNXJYOQ8ILa5wuh_gGdPnpHnuV_ds2r1FNZotw/s640/blogger-image-758521478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kwxWEYHAoxoPj73hhGTQqE9UP5BRernIAY2BdKvlVoydN1pg6nqVCvF27NVXgAtuXV1bixKryRnL6e3bE10-6bO7VsbQRWeA8Z2GyGNXJYOQ8ILa5wuh_gGdPnpHnuV_ds2r1FNZotw/s640/blogger-image-758521478.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Then I add some seasoning, the salt and pepper, chili flakes, oregano and sometimes I add some garlic powder.</div><div>I will then add some water or stock and let it cook down until the carrots are soft for about 15 minutes. Just keep adding water if the veggies start to stick or get to dry. </div><div><br></div><div>Next I add in the meat and frozen peas. I usually will add a bit more butter and let that sauté for another 10 minutes until it is all nicely combined and the veggies are well cooked.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHoX28izYmIRPZd8BpkbXl6ALwKtfWqIaP0SIYhal478zyYTKew2izO5APjVkvPhuJAybe76YIFUGaGIAId5Si3jWL_5RcSkO_p5fLQUNRE-XQUWDfWgXc9DowHUsHkU0nLYzs-7v5hs/s640/blogger-image--2001856772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHoX28izYmIRPZd8BpkbXl6ALwKtfWqIaP0SIYhal478zyYTKew2izO5APjVkvPhuJAybe76YIFUGaGIAId5Si3jWL_5RcSkO_p5fLQUNRE-XQUWDfWgXc9DowHUsHkU0nLYzs-7v5hs/s640/blogger-image--2001856772.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then I assemble all the ingredients into a lightly greased oven dish. Starting with the veggie/ lamb mixture on the bottom, and then adding the potatoes and grated cheese on top.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDUwr-twBW9i3uzVshzsdS2Iio0aR9ZYasp0MlBoImk04aoQ_T5kYO7r6Urgcy7afgiVHApFV32sp-qsMg9V3dBPbb-HcKxpmQvpzRz1wuVdsRidOhSYC980xfghTSvOhRc63pppoz1E/s640/blogger-image-720738858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDUwr-twBW9i3uzVshzsdS2Iio0aR9ZYasp0MlBoImk04aoQ_T5kYO7r6Urgcy7afgiVHApFV32sp-qsMg9V3dBPbb-HcKxpmQvpzRz1wuVdsRidOhSYC980xfghTSvOhRc63pppoz1E/s640/blogger-image-720738858.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>This is what it looks like all assembled:</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7QSXQtzynlghKajk721COd-SO6RZfp35y7INnWk8O7Izs2ByIxczKa5WsZgXnCoqWmOi24mTAFCln-sGQbMHRI3GZl8x3bWGS-qsBr9Sj98FIGp-cqGxxNXONJ3d93Kp9oFqZf9UZjMs/s640/blogger-image-1498334655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7QSXQtzynlghKajk721COd-SO6RZfp35y7INnWk8O7Izs2ByIxczKa5WsZgXnCoqWmOi24mTAFCln-sGQbMHRI3GZl8x3bWGS-qsBr9Sj98FIGp-cqGxxNXONJ3d93Kp9oFqZf9UZjMs/s640/blogger-image-1498334655.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Then I pop it in the oven for 20 minutes and voila! An easy, delicious shepherds pie! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You could use this same recipe with any leftover protein you have, ground beef, ground turkey, left over chicken or even just as a veggie dish it would be delicious. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE2QU8OovY8Zu1Jy7z8s98yeyS6AvLmqKjHmLC-eOOG3IXCMAM5k7avvywB4mC7BFCJmppe0xY5f5LRuwJmVH5ov1k4cwvXSoERAxzWAnnMaz2XY9ChsPifUwruqkHDy7eyffAUgOKMU/s640/blogger-image-1220534269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE2QU8OovY8Zu1Jy7z8s98yeyS6AvLmqKjHmLC-eOOG3IXCMAM5k7avvywB4mC7BFCJmppe0xY5f5LRuwJmVH5ov1k4cwvXSoERAxzWAnnMaz2XY9ChsPifUwruqkHDy7eyffAUgOKMU/s640/blogger-image-1220534269.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div></div>Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-63755963336124451512015-08-05T06:55:00.001-07:002015-08-12T10:43:09.041-07:00Morning Skinny Drink<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Currently I have two children under the age of three and have discovered how difficult it can be to find time to take care of yourself. I am so busy taking care of other people (miniature crazy people) that I end up neglecting myself, and am often so exhausted that I look and feel tired most of the time.<br />
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Before I had children, somewhere in my late twenties, I weighed on average about 123 pounds (I'm about 5'5" tall) which was pretty lean, not really skinny but not overweight either - I was usually a size 4. After having my first child I gained quite a bit of weight. When I was pregnant is when I started the weight gain and then never really was able to lose it, and I weighed an average of about 140 pounds, which put me at about 20 pounds overweight. It was not a huge amount to overcome, but challenging non the less. I finally made a commitment to get back to my pre-kids weight after the birth of my second child.</div>
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To make a long story short, after my second child was about 4 months old, I lost the weight doing a diet for nursing moms. I lost all the extra weight, and then some. I am now the size I was when I was like 19 years old (pretty skinny) at about 115 pounds and I have more energy than ever even though I still don't get much sleep (baby sleep training is still my everyday experience). I won't go into all the details of how I did it since I really want to focus on "maintenance" for this post. I'll save the weight loss journey for another post.</div>
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I've made a conscious effort, as much as possible, to really <b><i>think</i></b> about my food choices before I eat, while I'm eating, and be as thoughtful as possible about what I put in my mouth - even being as busy as I am with the kids. Before I lost the weight I wasn't really <b><i>thinking</i></b> about what I was eating - I was just eating - now my mind is working differently and I am always thinking about what the food is, how much I'm consuming and if what I am eating is making me feel physically good. I think of food in terms of energy, healing and joy. I know that seems vague but, I will go into more detail about that in a later post.<br />
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The <b>"thinking"</b> is the first part. The second part is what I like to call my <b>"skinny medicine foods"</b>. These are foods that I have done research about (and by that I mean searched <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/jessicawcooper/wellness/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> boards) and consider to be food choices that I can make on a regular basis that not only help me maintain my weight but also aid in losing weight and flushing out my system. </div>
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There are about twenty or so such foods that I keep on my list, but the main one and the one I swear by is what I call my "<b>Morning Skinny Drink</b>".</div>
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It's pretty simple and I drink it religiously every morning, and if I ever miss a few days I still drink it at least 4 days a week on average. </div>
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What is the magic drink? It's basically just lemon and water. I know it sounds too simple to really work - but believe me - <b>IT WORKS!!</b> </div>
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Now, the trick is to drink it when you first wake up about 15 minutes before you eat or drink anything else. I won't get into a long explanation of how it works, but essentially it helps flush your intestines, it gets rid of harmful bacteria, it helps boost your metabolism, it balances the PH levels in your body which helps your body manage sugar (don't have tell you how important that one is), and also gives you a little energy boost. It does a bunch of other stuff too but I will leave it to you to do your homework about it. Suffice as to say it's a magical, magical, wonderful thing and super easy to do on a regular basis. </div>
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Like I said, water with lemon, every morning, first thing. Pretty easy!</div>
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Now, If you REALLY want to give your body a good clean and want to go to that extra effort to look good and feel good then you've gotta try my <b>"Super Skinny Drink"</b></div>
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This is it:</div>
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- Tall glass of ice water</div>
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- Juice of one whole lemon</div>
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- Unsweetened Cranberry juice</div>
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- 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar</div>
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- 4 whole mint leaves</div>
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- 1 tablespoon of honey</div>
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Mix all together and drink it down first thing in the morning then follow up with one glass of regular water. </div>
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Enjoy! </div>
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Here's a before and after photo so you can see the difference this has made in my life...</div>
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Here's me a few months after second baby - at 140 ish pounds...</div>
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Here's me last weekend at 115 pounds and looking a lot healthier and happier! It's not a ton of weight difference (only about 25 pounds) but the difference is HUGE! You can really see the difference in my face (already have a round face to begin with) but the change is dramatic. And my waistline really tells the story too - from wearing large baggy t-shirts to small tops and size 2 dresses! I look better, feel better and can wear my old skinny jeans! Yay!</div>
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Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-73476179744666438942014-04-15T12:02:00.003-07:002014-04-15T12:10:30.924-07:00My husbands favorite soup - Spicy Potato<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Spicy Potato Soup </h2>
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This is my version of a classic potato soup. I originally found the recipe in an Irish Pub cook book, along with having learned a similar soup from my granny, and I have added my own twists of flavor to it over time. It is my husbands absolute favorite soup. It is really comforting to eat and filling enough to be a meal on it's own.</h4>
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This soup is pretty basic to make, you basically chop and prep all your ingredients and throw them in a pot. There are a couple of extra steps at the end to make this soup extra creamy and delicious, but it's really pretty easy.</h4>
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Ingredients:</h4>
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- 1lb pancetta or bacon - diced into small chunks (I buy the diced pancetta from Trader Joe's) - you can omit this ingredient for the vegetarian version of this soup</div>
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- 1 tablespoon of veggie oil</div>
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- 2 celery stalks diced</div>
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- 1 hot pepper (jalepeno or serrano) finely chopped for a little kick (omit this if you don't want it to be spicy)</div>
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- 1 diced onion</div>
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- 3 garlic cloves minced</div>
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- 8 medium size potatoes peeled and cubed (I use Yukon Gold)</div>
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- 4 cups of chicken stock, veggie stock or water</div>
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- 3 to 4 tablespoons of butter (or veggie oil if you want less fat)</div>
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- 1/4 cup of all purpose flour (sometimes I use chickpea flour or rice flour for a gluten free option)</div>
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- 1cup heavy cream and half a cup of plain yogurt or milk (you can just use yogurt for the healthier version)</div>
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- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro</div>
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- salt and pepper to taste</div>
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- 1 teaspoon of coriander</div>
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- 1 teaspoon of oregeno </div>
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- 1 cup of chopped chives or green onions to garnish<br />
- sometimes I add a little tumeric for color and subtle flavor - it also has amazing health benefits </div>
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Directions:<br />
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- I start by prepping all my ingredients. I chop all the veggies and put them aside. I put the celery, onions, garlic and peppers into one bowl, the potatoes in another, and the cilantro into it's own little bowl. <br />
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- Using a heavy bottomed pot like a cast iron dutch oven, turn the stove to medium heat and begin by browning the pancetta or bacon in a tiny bit of vegetable oil. Cook for 3 or 4 minutes until lightly browned, then carefully remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.<br />
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- Now add a tiny bit more vegetable oil, and a tablespoon of butter to the pot and throw in your onions, garlic, celery and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on medium heat until the veggies are softened.<br />
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- At this point you can add in your spices and salt and pepper to the veggie mixture. Once the vegetables are soft add in the potatoes, and also the pancetta that you set aside. Cook this for about 2 minutes and make sure everything is incorporated together.<br />
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- Now add in the chicken stock until the potato/ veggie mixture is fully submerged and bring to a boil. Once boiling turn the heat to low and let simmer for about 45 minutes. <br />
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- While that is cooking you can start your roux - which is the creamy component to your soup.<br />
- To make the roux, in a separate small pot, add in the rest of your butter and the flour over medium/ low heat.<br />
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- Once the butter is all melted and incorporated with the flour, turn the heat to low and slowly add in the heavy cream and milk.<br />
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- Now whisk the mixture until it begins to thicken, then turn off the heat.<br />
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- Then you can add in the chopped cilantro and a little salt and pepper to taste.<br />
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- The roux/ cream mixture should be very thick at this point like cake icing.<br />
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- Once the potatoes are softened in your soup you can add the cream mixture to it and stir it around.<br />
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At this point you can serve it as is or you can mash the soup down a bit to make your chunky soup a little more creamy. I use a hand held mixer and just mix/ mash the soup a little just on the top so I still have a good amount of chunkiness.<br />
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Your done! Serve with green onions for garnish if you like or just as is. I hope you like this soup as much as we do!<br />
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Bon apetit!</div>
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Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-489264502557183832014-03-05T12:13:00.003-08:002014-03-05T16:39:31.821-08:00Safe and Healthy Brands for Famillies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Chemicals in our Food? Yuck - NO thanks! How about GMO's, Pesticides, Pink Slime, Petro-Chemicals, BPA, Hydrogenated Oil or Hi-Fructose? Definitely NOT! </b></span><br />
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Navigating the food aisles of Supermarkets in America can be quite the daunting task, especially when you have a screaming baby, you are tired, and you just need to pick up a few things to make dinner. Now add trying to decipher cryptic words on ingredients lists you've never heard of, and trying to work out which foods are safe to feed your baby. OOOF! It's too much sometimes...<br />
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Lately I have been growing more and more concerned with the ingredients, and food handling practices of food companies in the U.S.<br />
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<b>Why? </b> Well, there have been a string of recalls lately on food, everything from Ground beef, Uncle Ben's Rice, Hot Pockets, Falafel Wraps, to Organic frozen berries and more. My husband and I bought a bag of organic frozen berries from Costco, only to find out a week later that they had been recalled for containing Hepatitis A!!! Luckily I hadn't actually opened the bag yet.<br />
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It sent some alarm bells off in my head though. You can read the article about it here: <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/05/31/frozen-berries-hepatitis-a-outbreak/2378139/">http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/05/31/frozen-berries-hepatitis-a-outbreak/2378139/</a><br />
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photo courtesy of -<a href="http://www.thefutureofhealthnow.com/fruits-vegetables-protect-mental-health/">http://www.thefutureofhealthnow.com/fruits-vegetables-protect-mental-health/</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What's Happening to our Food?</b></span><br />
In addition to an increase in food recalls, a series of consumer driven pushes have lead companies to get rid of certain ingredients in their food due to health and safety concerns.<br />
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Well, you say, we have a Federal Food and Drug Administration (<a href="http://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank">the FDA</a>) that protects us, right? Yes we do, but they are not necessarily always looking out for what's best for consumers. Like every other political branch they are subject to lobbying by huge food corporations that push hard to keep certain chemicals and misleading food labels in the food supply. The FDA deems all kinds of harmful chemicals okay for consumption as long as they are in small enough doses. Well, I for one am not interesting in eating chemicals no matter how small a quantity. Accumulation of those chemicals over time can not be good for anyone!<br />
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Not to mention there are so many GIANT, MEGA food corporations that process food in giant factories that are difficult to regulate. So, if you are a concerned mommy like me, read on...<br />
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I recently learned about MORE chemicals in foods I thought were okay, after that whole <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/yoga-mat-chemical-found-500-grocery-items-report-article-1.1706644" target="_blank">'Subway sandwich'</a> debacle (Subway decided to take a gross chemical out of their bread after consumer complaints. The chemical is also used in making yoga mats and shoe soles. GROSS!)<br />
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Anyway, it lead me to start looking into other foods and their ingredients lists - and the ones that were really long and hard to spell, or the ones that were a cryptic series of numbers...<br />
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for instance, <b>R12-135</b> which is a chemical used to clean machinery. It was listed as an 'ingredient' in the Oroweat bread I was buying. It is banned in most other industrialized countries, and is labeled a "hazardous material". Maybe it's just used to clean the machines the bread is processed in - I really don't care - I don't want it anywhere on my food!<br />
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What is it doing in supposedly healthy whole wheat bread? Good question! <br />
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Rather than drive yourself crazy trying to decipher all the crazy ingredients in food, and spend a bunch of money (I certainly can't afford to buy everything at Whole Foods), I am working on creating a list of safe, healthy foods and ethical brands to help us all out. I will create a series of lists from best of the best to chose, to worst offenders to avoid.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHug5xXwDAbrobARmDXakIxVchyWWC_LWoWBSuiXscooMcAXkmL7NS3xovhgnaA6nnMBUnOEfbsdyBCUgOjnDLpDXawF5VtA6Kie4T2XkFjgUxUOy4I1r5ZMAzqtMlaKVuYkPHQ04aw8/s1600/bigstockphoto_Organic_And_Natural_Symbol_5474962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHug5xXwDAbrobARmDXakIxVchyWWC_LWoWBSuiXscooMcAXkmL7NS3xovhgnaA6nnMBUnOEfbsdyBCUgOjnDLpDXawF5VtA6Kie4T2XkFjgUxUOy4I1r5ZMAzqtMlaKVuYkPHQ04aw8/s1600/bigstockphoto_Organic_And_Natural_Symbol_5474962.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I found this link which I found really helpful to get me started...<br />
<a href="http://www.organicauthority.com/foodie-buzz/the-top-20-most-credible-natural-food-brands.html">http://www.organicauthority.com/foodie-buzz/the-top-20-most-credible-natural-food-brands.html</a><br />
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There are definitely other brands besides the ones on my list - but I think these are the ones that I see the most in stores, and cover a variety of food types, from dairy products, to meats, cereals, snacks and baby foods. In general it's a good idea to try and buy <i><b>'certified organic'</b></i> foods whenever possible (which I know is not always available, and is more expensive). Whenever we consumers buy organic we are encouraging more food companies and grocery stores to produce better quality foods, and stock more in their stores.<br />
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Here are the guidelines needed to be 'certified organic'...<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_certification">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_certification</a><br />
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Okay here is my first list...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Top 15 Best Food Brands </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(in no particular order)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>My list of the most trustworthy, ethical, certified organic, healthy brands available...(found in most grocery stores)</b></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs78pWZqldI9gU3IWYevOtHpKST4RPpT65bul68IYY9LVdubQpQ9hVoDLN-UPrKhD8LuVFISCI-OfD6y5VgDiAIPz_iEZR7RvZmrcY1DcYEA8TaFKSkGO8i8h8E-1oGm0Uq4Ja7E-XLcc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs78pWZqldI9gU3IWYevOtHpKST4RPpT65bul68IYY9LVdubQpQ9hVoDLN-UPrKhD8LuVFISCI-OfD6y5VgDiAIPz_iEZR7RvZmrcY1DcYEA8TaFKSkGO8i8h8E-1oGm0Uq4Ja7E-XLcc/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
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1. Trader Joe's Brand<br />
<a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/">http://www.traderjoes.com/</a><br />
I know Trader Joe's stores are not everywhere in the U.S. but this store is hands-down my favorite place to shop. Their prices are much lower than other healthy food stores, and they carry a ton of great products, including their own brand. The Trader Joe's brand foods are free of GMO's and also their canned goods do not contain BPA. They carry a lot of organic products from local producers. <br />
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<b>2. Stonyfield Farms</b><br />
Organic yogurts and dairy products. They are certified organic and I think all their products taste fantastic.<br />
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<b>3. Horizon Organic</b><br />
<a href="http://www.horizondairy.com/milk/" target="_blank">http://www.horizondairy.com/milk/ </a><b></b><br />
I always buy this brand of milk for my daughter.<b> </b>Because my daughter drinks so much milk it is really important to me to make sure it does not contain hormones, or anti-biotics - which a lot of milk that isn't organic does contain. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KDMz4ByYHfB5XLkQ8_Tq00hKsuQs6LZVHeLVG36HCMEGrCKroKj65Ch_QwJ_jaSmBx83_oD_vM24IfKutenmI-HvI4o8fUMyDszznDrCCEuhcQyrsk6xWJjEBlcKqvu888l-LNfkVCQ/s1600/Bobs-Red-Mill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KDMz4ByYHfB5XLkQ8_Tq00hKsuQs6LZVHeLVG36HCMEGrCKroKj65Ch_QwJ_jaSmBx83_oD_vM24IfKutenmI-HvI4o8fUMyDszznDrCCEuhcQyrsk6xWJjEBlcKqvu888l-LNfkVCQ/s1600/Bobs-Red-Mill.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>4. Bob's Redmill</b><br />
<a href="http://www.bobsredmill.com/" target="_blank">http://www.bobsredmill.com/ </a><b></b><br />
Great selection of gluten-free products and different types of flour and grains.<b> </b>I find all kinds of great products from them in the 'healthy' section at my local Ralph's grocery store.<b><br /></b><br />
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<b>5. Eden Foods</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.edenfoods.com/" target="_blank">http://www.edenfoods.com/</a> </b><br />
BPA-free cans, organic soy, no gelling agents in the soymilk, commitment
to organic, local and traditionally made foods for three decades.
Family-owned.<br />
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<b>6. Nature's Path</b><br />
<a href="http://www.naturespath.com/">www.naturespath.com</a><br />
The go-to brand for organic cereal and a commitment to non-GMO
ingredients, but beware, they still use a lot of sugar and ingredients
like soy oil.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja10zaVA_An_wZHIxmrUJzluBHzfStpkGzlDN2_8LJrW1jGmkdXe8gm0GplzWYKiO_nm2T6-QaDLI8Y7ZLigpcDHY1T6dQ_uiguOyC5BzbydiuTFCynhebrQPfPb4MWdwb8ifx0YZkVy0/s1600/earths-best-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja10zaVA_An_wZHIxmrUJzluBHzfStpkGzlDN2_8LJrW1jGmkdXe8gm0GplzWYKiO_nm2T6-QaDLI8Y7ZLigpcDHY1T6dQ_uiguOyC5BzbydiuTFCynhebrQPfPb4MWdwb8ifx0YZkVy0/s1600/earths-best-logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>7. Earth's Best</b><br />
<a href="http://www.earthsbest.com/" target="_blank">http://www.earthsbest.com/ </a><br />
Earth's Best is a full line of organic baby food.<br />
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<b>8. 365 Everyday Value (Whole Foods Brand)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/about-our-products/product-lines/365-everyday-value">http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/about-our-products/product-lines/365-everyday-value</a><br />
Whole Foods brand has high quality and pretty much all organic products. <br />
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<b>9. Organic Valley and Organic Prairie</b><br />
<a href="http://www.organicvalley.coop/">http://www.organicvalley.coop/</a><br />
<span class="st">Founded in 1988, <i>Organic Valley</i> produces award-winning organic milk, cheese, butter, soy milk, produce, healthy snacks, and more.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fefdf7; color: #482421; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;">The mission of the Cooperative Regions of Organic Producer Pools (CROPP) is to create and operate a marketing cooperative that promotes regional farm diversity and economic stability by the means of organic agricultural methods and the sale of certified organic products.</span><br />
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<b>10. Simply Organic</b> <br />
<a href="http://www.simplyorganic.com/">http://www.simplyorganic.com/</a><br />
Herbs and Spices, and pre-made meals for when you need a healthy option for something quick. <br />
Simply Organic's pure, organic herbs, spices and seasonings plus fresh
food equals delicious, healthy meals for you and your family. Once
you've tried Simply Organic®, you'll agree we provide a simply healthy
way to incorporate organics into your life. We travel the world over to
bring you fresh and aromatic seasonings of unsurpassed quality. You'll
taste the difference in every bite. <br />
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<b>11. Amy's Kitchen</b><br />
<a href="http://www.amys.com/">http://www.amys.com/</a><br />
<br />
I like their line of Macaroni and Cheese.<br />
Amy's Kitchen is a privately held corporation which manufactures natural and organic convenience and frozen foods. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY9MDXz7rJw5Zlw0sXrliQN_nhkhKLG7vV6WDdZ68CMc5vXQ9XI0rLxeWAfDofXDUbMgU9HJKUokLjIgrqsf_X6eJ1DB-nLblblrRhcVTwUNH2oZ4WGhPY-wC9eSC1qWZjezh-eJ4724/s1600/Back-to-Nature-e1359468061555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY9MDXz7rJw5Zlw0sXrliQN_nhkhKLG7vV6WDdZ68CMc5vXQ9XI0rLxeWAfDofXDUbMgU9HJKUokLjIgrqsf_X6eJ1DB-nLblblrRhcVTwUNH2oZ4WGhPY-wC9eSC1qWZjezh-eJ4724/s1600/Back-to-Nature-e1359468061555.jpg" height="320" width="270" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>12. Back to Nature</b><br />
<a href="http://www.backtonaturefood.com/">www.backtonaturefood.com</a><br />
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<span class="st"><i>Back to Nature</i> foods are made with simple and
delicious ingredients – plus no artificial flavors or preservatives,
hydrogenated oils, or high fructose corn syrup.</span><br />
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<b>13. Applegate</b><br />
<a href="http://www.applegate.com/">http://www.applegate.com/</a><br />
Organic meats - <span class="st">Sliced deli meats, hot dogs, sausage and bacon that are free of antibiotics, gluten<wbr></wbr>, casein and taste enhancers</span><br />
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<b>14. Neiman Ranch</b><br />
<a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/Index.aspx">http://www.nimanranch.com/Index.aspx</a><br />
Niman Ranch is a San Francisco Bay Area based ranch, meat processor and
distributor of high quality "natural" beef, lamb, and pork, founded by
rancher Bill Niman. <i>Niman Ranch offers a complete line of fresh <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/beef.aspx">beef</a>, <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/pork.aspx">pork</a>, <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/lamb.aspx">lamb</a>, <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/Poultry.aspx">poulty</a>, <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/cage-free_eggs.aspx">cage-free eggs </a>and a variety of <a href="http://www.nimanranch.com/specialty_products.aspx">smoked and cured meats. </a>Niman Ranch is leading the industry in sustainable and humane agricultural practices. </i> <br />
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<b>15. Annie's</b><br />
<cite class="_jd" style="background-color: white; color: #006621; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; white-space: nowrap;">www.<b>annies</b>.com/</cite><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: nowrap;"></span><br />
Annie's Homegrown is a Berkeley, California-based maker of natural and/or organic pastas, meals and snacks. I get their cheddar bunnies for my daughter.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>One final note... </b></span><br />
<br />
The main reason to buy organic for every food type (meat, vegetables,
fruit, grains, dairy etc) is because you can be sure the food will not
contain harmful chemicals, pesticides, hormones and other bad things. The
consumption of pesticides and chemicals has been linked to increased
cancer rates, environmental damage, brain developmental issues in
children, and obesity.<br />
<br />
In my opinion, it's worth it to spend a little
more on organic and save your family from medical bills and heartache in
the future. I know that I can't always protect myself or my child from
all the crap that goes into food all the time (I'm sure we will eat it sometimes) - but I can control what I
buy at the grocery store.<br />
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My daughter Sofia helping me put away groceries.<br />
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Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-83358519221976988052014-02-18T22:16:00.003-08:002014-03-05T16:40:57.897-08:00Love for Lentils<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lovely, Lovely Lentils... </b></span><br />
<br />
There are so many reasons to love this mighty (tiny) bean! Just wait until you read all the health benefits I posted at the bottom; you will be amazed. And once you try this recipe you will be sold! It is a great choice for cooking for a family, not only because it is so tasty, and for all of its amazing health benefits, it is also super easy to cook. Unlike most other beans there is no need to soak the lentils over night, you can just put the dried beans directly into some boiling water and eat them once they are softened. <br />
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My version of lentil soup takes inspiration from traditional Italian lentil soup and Indian Daal. I love this recipe because it is so satisfying and comforting, and also my daughter and husband gobble it up.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fun fact...</b></span><br />
Did you know lentils are also believed to bring prosperity and luck? A popular New Year's meal in Italy is Cotechino con Lenticchie (green
lentils with sausage). This tradition which got it's start centuries ago is thought to bring good fortune for the coming year. If you are at all superstitious like me, it's just another reason to love lentils.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> The ingredients are so simple...</span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> - some veggies, lentils, and a bunch of spices.</span></h4>
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<b> Ingredients:</b><br />
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1 cup lentils<br />
1 jalapeno (if you like it spicy)<br />
3 carrots chopped<br />
5 garlic cloves finely minced<br />
1 medium onion diced<br />
3 or 4 stalks of celery chopped<br />
2 medium potatoes chopped<br />
1 tomato chopped<br />
1 tablespoon of finely chopped ginger<br />
6 cups of either chicken stock, veggie stock or water<br />
3 tablespoons of olive oil <br />
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<b>Spices:</b><br />
1 tablespoon tumeric powder<br />
1 tablespoon cumin powder<br />
1 teaspoon garam masala<br />
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper<br />
1 teaspoon coriander<br />
1 tablespoon oregano <br />
salt and pepper to taste <br />
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There is a lot of veggie chopping involved but other than that this recipe is a snap to make...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>How to make:</b></span><br />
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Chop onions, garlic and ginger first - they are the first things in the pot... <br />
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Then chop all your veggies...<br />
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Peel your potatoes and chop them...<br />
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In a large sauce pan (I use my dutch oven), cook your onions, garlic, ginger (and jalapeno) in olive oil over medium heat for about 5 mins...<br />
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Then add the other veggie and cook them down for another 2 or 3 mins...<br />
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Then get your spices in there...</div>
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Leave the salt till the last 10 mins of cook time (salt can make beans tough so just leave it until the end) </div>
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Then add your lentils (make sure to rinse the lentils in a strainer before using them to get rid of any impurities)<br />
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Add water or stock and bring to a boil...<br />
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Turn down to a medium simmer and then let cook for 45 mins to an hour until everything is nice and soft. Add the salt at the very end.<br />
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Sometime I throw some chopped cilantro on top in the bowls. It looks pretty and adds a refreshing flavor.<br />
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I hope you enjoy! This is a great way to get more veggies into your family diet, and the added health benefits of ginger and tumeric. I feel so good after eating this!<br />
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Here is some additional information about why lentils are so good for your health...<br />
(found here -<a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=75" target="_blank"> http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=75</a>) <br />
<h2 id="healthbenefits">
Health Benefits of Lentils...</h2>
Lentils are a great source of fiber, and help lower cholesterol. Lentils also provide good
amounts of seven important minerals, our B-vitamins, and protein—all
with virtually no fat. The calorie cost of all this nutrition? Just 230
calories for a whole cup of cooked lentils. This tiny nutritional giant
fills you up—not out.
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<h3>
Good for your Heart </h3>
Lentils have significant amounts of <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=63">folate</a> and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=75">magnesium</a> which are very important minerals for keeping your heart healthy. </span><br />
<h3>
Lentils also Give You Energy to Burn While Stabilizing Blood Sugar</h3>
<h3>
Iron gives you Energy</h3>
In addition to providing slow burning complex carbohydrates, lentils can increase your energy by replenishing your <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrient&dbid=70">iron</a>
stores. Particularly for menstruating women, who are more at risk for
iron deficiency, boosting iron stores with lentils is a good
idea—especially because, unlike red meat, another source of iron,
lentils are not rich in fat and calories. Iron is an integral component
of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to all body cells,
and is also part of key enzyme systems for energy production and
metabolism. And remember: If you're pregnant or lactating, your needs
for iron increase. Growing children and adolescents also have increased
needs for iron.
</span></div>
Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-5353287147574909922014-02-03T22:22:00.003-08:002014-02-09T12:48:25.101-08:00Decorating My Daughters Room<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Confessions of a seriously obsessed mommy... </b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I honestly spent more time and energy putting together and decorating my daughters room than I spent on my wedding!</span> </h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">The pure excitement and anticipation of having a baby girl (my first child at 34 years old) really motivated me in decorating Sofia's room. I think the combination of having a little girls room to decorate and wishing to put as much love and happiness in it as possible really inspired me to be creative. Perhaps the whimsical nature of childhood allows you more opportunity for creativity and fun. </span></h4>
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Let me just start by saying that I spent hours scouring <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jessicawcooper/crafty/" target="_blank">www.Pinterest.com</a> for ideas, and when I say hours, I mean HOURS! I found quite a few ideas that I used for inspiration, and amazingly they did not turn out to be "Pinstrocities". I started working on Sofia's room when I was about 6 month pregnant and am still making little tweaks here and there as she grows and changes. Here's what I did...<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>1. Picking a Theme </b></span></h3>
I started with the idea of wanting the room to be a calming space with elements of whimsy and girlish charm. Then I decided on a general "Garden" theme with lots of birds, flowers and woodland creatures. From there it was easier to think about color and I decided on lavender and spring greens, with room for additional spring color accents (pink, orange, topaz blue etc). I looked at several different wall color options and finally decided a soft lavender would be the best for a calming effect. I am so happy with the color I picked - it is soft and soothing.<br />
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I also picked up some fantastically easy to use vinyl stickers to decorate the main wall. I picked a tree with animals and flowers, and I think it looks adorable. I'm also happy that I can easily change it later as she grows and her room changes. <br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>2. Deciding on Furniture </b></span></h3>
After looking at a ton of websites that carry nursery furniture, from the Land of Nod, Pottery Barn Kids, Ikea to Target etc I decided that some simple white furniture and accessories would be the most inexpensive, feminine and contemporary option. I found some awesome deals at Ikea (of course) like a changing table, the window seat, dresser, the hanging light and chair in the corner of the room. I think the light was like $12. After we put all the furniture together I purchased a rug from RugsUSA.com (which was on sale and because we got a smaller size it ended being under $200). I picked a couple of pricier items like the green curtains from Land of Nod to make sure I had the right colors, and I'm really happy that I did. Overall, we did not need to spend too much on furniture and accessories for her room because I waited until things were on sale, and shopped around at multiple stores. I also re-purposed items to fit the theme, like an old bed side dresser that I painted white and put some new hardware on. It matches everything perfectly (total cost for that like $30).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwo5IXMBufSMU28thqr48PhmgFe_MAa4ZZmt1GJhA-CjwM02_yo9acsqsFlIcoEPrGH8wp6a7B7G0usr8mP1o15wzEtRhzKTkbP6Ha66M6szbqQ4s4sv3BuNtzrLBMcN2XYODRosKyog/s1600/IMG_3748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwo5IXMBufSMU28thqr48PhmgFe_MAa4ZZmt1GJhA-CjwM02_yo9acsqsFlIcoEPrGH8wp6a7B7G0usr8mP1o15wzEtRhzKTkbP6Ha66M6szbqQ4s4sv3BuNtzrLBMcN2XYODRosKyog/s1600/IMG_3748.JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dresser I painted and added new hardware - Jason jigsawed the front edges to make them rounded</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>3. Adding Personal Touches</b></span></h3>
Along with the new things we purchased especially for Sofi's room, we also filled her room with vintage items from mine and my husbands childhood like baby blankets and stuffed animals, hand me downs from family members, hand made items from family and friends, beautiful gifts from family picked up on their travels, and re-purposed items. <br />
<br />
One example of a hand made item is the SOFIA name banner I made out of scrap book paper, stencils, white paint and some twine. Another great DIY how-to find on Pinterest!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93-LeNBJQy_uzCQnptixwj2KnICNe8b96EtwsYhGE09RspbgP2nIsfJpVXpS81ALdat2QP2V8zaznFrsJhMNtID0bC59V0Ahxve7CowGZDsCugGK5zfwEyWwDZ_hYLC6KGObEgAT_E3I/s1600/banner_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93-LeNBJQy_uzCQnptixwj2KnICNe8b96EtwsYhGE09RspbgP2nIsfJpVXpS81ALdat2QP2V8zaznFrsJhMNtID0bC59V0Ahxve7CowGZDsCugGK5zfwEyWwDZ_hYLC6KGObEgAT_E3I/s1600/banner_web.jpg" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I used cute artwork I have collected over the years, (including this Mary Blair print) and artwork from friends. I put them in white frames to match the furniture.<br />
<br />
Our friend Jackie made this beautiful handmade artwork with Sofia's name and date of birth. She makes adorable handmade gifts - check our her blog too...<a href="http://specialdeliverybyjackie.blogspot.com/2014/02/light-gray-and-blue-themed-baby-shower.html" target="_blank">Jacqueline Heckman</a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQy3QEISGOWZ8iYaZGcHzwpM9QzpU86e_bfU25hAPxBhnjZLE3LYgfaqac0efF9JLxCS61TcUbT6IjDngQMfj_En82uQwxcmhvaGLR-incdevk1_4PHQR8Sic7HhBr5YiewCb6eK-Yfc/s1600/IMG_3752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQy3QEISGOWZ8iYaZGcHzwpM9QzpU86e_bfU25hAPxBhnjZLE3LYgfaqac0efF9JLxCS61TcUbT6IjDngQMfj_En82uQwxcmhvaGLR-incdevk1_4PHQR8Sic7HhBr5YiewCb6eK-Yfc/s1600/IMG_3752.JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>4. Creating A Fun Space</b></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I really wanted Sofia's room to be fun and have lots of places for toys and books, and room to play. Without having the room feel cluttered or overwhelmed with toys I thought about how she would use the room, and how to store all the toys and books.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's what we did...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My husband and I picked up an inexpensive bookshelf from Ikea and
turn it on it's side to create an upholstered window bench. I found the
idea on Pinterest and basically copied it. I used some green fabric
and some foam I picked up from Joanne's Fabric store and an MDF board
from Home Depot. Cut everything to size, then stapled the fabric over the foam and board,
and voila! After adding some fabric bins for storage it became the perfect seat/ toy and book storage area.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwaPAijLY7bDYavGyZDfemoaDtv4GT2wcm8L7k4BQirAf_y3w0D14D9hu-eB6DPUA6zKomBhyphenhyphenvaBo4D1BuCmutU0CZg8ku-0U3o-898mqp3pNrQdEBiXLBPad95FPlpTOjN0bW2iya2CE/s1600/bench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwaPAijLY7bDYavGyZDfemoaDtv4GT2wcm8L7k4BQirAf_y3w0D14D9hu-eB6DPUA6zKomBhyphenhyphenvaBo4D1BuCmutU0CZg8ku-0U3o-898mqp3pNrQdEBiXLBPad95FPlpTOjN0bW2iya2CE/s1600/bench.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
I wanted to put some books out of her to reach and some on display but kept safe from toddler hands until she's older, so I ordered a spice rack and put the nice books face out on it. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We also added a little glass display case to the wall to keep all the little delicate breakable items I have saved for her.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzLrqScebLZNrj6tJFKQr-r70cYeJOPu9ysnWdj1ZS01QERwwB9BwjlQZnmAXi1hgQFMvAujIfU13xBVwc50FX4d00IEJIqfSwx0WyCGKSnv-9yl0jTvczUawvSKPa9fliczs8307ZJo/s1600/IMG_3747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzLrqScebLZNrj6tJFKQr-r70cYeJOPu9ysnWdj1ZS01QERwwB9BwjlQZnmAXi1hgQFMvAujIfU13xBVwc50FX4d00IEJIqfSwx0WyCGKSnv-9yl0jTvczUawvSKPa9fliczs8307ZJo/s1600/IMG_3747.JPG" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lastly, per our wishlist, my brother and sister-in-law purchased a little green tent for Sofia that fits perfectly in the corner of her room. It is her own private play house and reading nook. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTScRX-Fb6Ud84cjRzW63AIQf1cbjmGRBtc-JYNcFkj0fd2JbATrM6wrxv4zxENA3edEutmAAyy7B8E26JzifxGgYOXWi_PUKPQYn99NF6_fZMwE5ayUA8N6X2wn39RUfQMxmGAKlyVjg/s1600/Edit1_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTScRX-Fb6Ud84cjRzW63AIQf1cbjmGRBtc-JYNcFkj0fd2JbATrM6wrxv4zxENA3edEutmAAyy7B8E26JzifxGgYOXWi_PUKPQYn99NF6_fZMwE5ayUA8N6X2wn39RUfQMxmGAKlyVjg/s1600/Edit1_web.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQly6COVM7EvpJGIqrxMPCioXPOiHLqn6n2pvsfE9HBBpBZIDBB1WMbHHouWM6qc0vvZ3aIDpKPRQMQXr2lVt1AduLu4XWctYaQggR0DAsn8Ao-3tjfzfZ4iQ0163ZWB6nSFUyBux4Sz8/s1600/Sofia_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQly6COVM7EvpJGIqrxMPCioXPOiHLqn6n2pvsfE9HBBpBZIDBB1WMbHHouWM6qc0vvZ3aIDpKPRQMQXr2lVt1AduLu4XWctYaQggR0DAsn8Ao-3tjfzfZ4iQ0163ZWB6nSFUyBux4Sz8/s1600/Sofia_web.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMyxbSgr8cp1bGHul0z32oU9rZC03wq6RPUlXxcvpitcI2brzyAb1tMoMdrkiwlLsJfVyveZ3uc0V_fyBDIlRhjjAY5YAhBYAld-TwqH3KTtQM_3QGv8uXs4ThKY9CHmTwKAgxgw7oCw/s1600/Mobile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMyxbSgr8cp1bGHul0z32oU9rZC03wq6RPUlXxcvpitcI2brzyAb1tMoMdrkiwlLsJfVyveZ3uc0V_fyBDIlRhjjAY5YAhBYAld-TwqH3KTtQM_3QGv8uXs4ThKY9CHmTwKAgxgw7oCw/s1600/Mobile.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR44cWNxaUAMs6dBtAFf7P_3EahjmgZMmgxAw5HbwpT3HZ49lf2yxPPgMKq5KiLQpXnSU2-bhrTFzV31rmsIB0d2QpoCt_E1EKdDnBlkaLtlwvMN8dHKtwphH60M-_yeW9Yb5bAzs7hQ/s1600/IMG_3754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR44cWNxaUAMs6dBtAFf7P_3EahjmgZMmgxAw5HbwpT3HZ49lf2yxPPgMKq5KiLQpXnSU2-bhrTFzV31rmsIB0d2QpoCt_E1EKdDnBlkaLtlwvMN8dHKtwphH60M-_yeW9Yb5bAzs7hQ/s1600/IMG_3754.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathy's mobile hangs over Sofi's changing table - it has done wonders to keep her entertained while changing diapers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
My only regret is that I wish we had just broken down and purchased one
of those ridiculously expensive glider chairs for the corner instead of
the Ikea chair (cute as it is, it is not that comfy), as I REALLY wished
I had that when I was breast feeding.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLOuMgQy4hog_GcSNxUJlGh3nqcRfOaqJwIu0wYY2Yt37naCLq2HfWZa3LVK9dKVm8D9ZDrqbLg0S6kjzl9pN0dy7ZpTYeI8xYtEOzg4D_3LEJdZSEKlwSPEiUlqtMqMeSZGFcsYrf68/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLOuMgQy4hog_GcSNxUJlGh3nqcRfOaqJwIu0wYY2Yt37naCLq2HfWZa3LVK9dKVm8D9ZDrqbLg0S6kjzl9pN0dy7ZpTYeI8xYtEOzg4D_3LEJdZSEKlwSPEiUlqtMqMeSZGFcsYrf68/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pillow is from 'Forrest Friends' - I got it at Comic Con when I was pregnant - BTW - never go to a large convention like that when you are 6 month pregnant!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Other than that I think
everything turned out beautiful, and really functional for a child's
needs.<br />
<br />
A final note: My husband was involved in every step of the way and we decided on everything together :) <br />
<br />
Happy decorating!<br />
<br /></div>
Jessica Whiteside Cooperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08200390799110715761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600767449747275825.post-56699894493583109372014-01-24T13:53:00.002-08:002014-02-03T23:08:22.993-08:00My Favorite Recipe - Chicken and Sausage Gumbo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This recipe must be made with love in order to achieve maximum levels of deliciousness. <br />
<br />
Although I live in California now, I was born and raised in Louisiana, and as they say, "You can take a southern girl out of the south, but you can never take the south out of a girl"...or something like that.<br />
<br />
For me, the best way to stay connected with my Cajun Country roots is through food. Nothing quite compares with some good ole' Cajun cookin'. It fills up your belly and your soul with joy. Louisianians are known for their deep passion for cooking, and puttin a whole lotta love into every dish. I'm lucky enough to have learned some classic dishes from my granny and other family members which help me to stay inspired and connected with my unique culinary heritage.<br />
<br />
Well, this recipe is a combination of my granny's gumbo, a recipe from Emeril Lagasse and a few of my own personal touches. And Y'all - it is GOOD! No matter how big of a pot I make - it always gets eaten.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
- 1 cup veggie oil and 1/4 cup of butter<br />
- 1 cup all purpose flour<br />
- 1 1/2 cups chopped onion<br />
- 1 cup chopped celery<br />
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper<br />
- 1 pound smoked Andouille sausage sliced into rounds<br />
- 1 1/2 pounds of boneless chicken (I use a mix of thighs and breasts) cut into 2 inch pieces<br />
- 1 heaping tablespoon of minced garlic (about 2 or 3 large cloves) <br />
- 6 cups chicken stock or water<br />
- 2 cups rice<br />
- (optional - 1 chopped jalapeno for extra kick)<br />
<br />
Seasoning:<br />
- 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)<br />
- 1 teaspoon of sugar<br />
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper<br />
- 3 bay leaves<br />
- 1 tablespoon of Slap Ya Mama seasoning (if you don't have this don't worry - just add some more cayenne pepper and maybe a dash of hot sauce like Tobasco)<br />
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano<br />
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme <br />
- 1 teaspoon of cumin powder<br />
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper <br />
- chopped green onion for garnish and a dash of gumbo file powder to thicken the sauce <br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
I always start with prepping all my ingredients - get everything chopped and ready to go! I cut up all the veggies and put them together in a bowl. Add some salt, pepper, cayenne pepper and a dash of Slap Ya Mama to the chicken and let sit at room temp for about 15 mins in a glass dish. <br />
<br />
In a large cast iron Dutch oven melt a dollop of butter over medium heat. Then when the pan is nice and hot add sausage and cook for about 4 or 5 minutes until just brown on both sides. Then remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.<br />
<br />
Now to make the roux (the most important part) add the vegetable oil and flour to the pan, along with the remaining butter. Stir frequently until the mixture is a deep chocolate brown color - should take about 20 mins to get it perfect. This is where you stand there in your apron and stir the pot constantly - with a lot of love! After you have put all your love into the roux and it looks like a dark brown gravy - now you add in all your veggies. Cook the veggies down for about 10 mins until softened. Add in the sugar and half the seasoning, except the salt. <br />
<br />
Once the veggies are cooked down, add in seasoned chicken and cook for about 2 mins. Add in the rest of the seasoning. Now add in chicken stock and make sure that the chicken is about 1 inch below the liquid. Add some water if you need more liquid. Bring to a boil then turn the heat to low and cook uncovered for about 45 mins to an hour, stirring occasionally. In the last 15 mins of cook time, add in the cooked sausage, and a dash of file powder to thicken. Then taste the gumbo and add salt to your liking. At this point you may want to add a little extra 'love' in there too - and by that I mean cayenne pepper or hot sauce. (Sometimes if I am feeling in an extra spicy mood I chop a jalapeno and throw it in with the veggies at the beginning).<br />
<br />
Serve over rice with some yummy French bread and garnish with green onions. <br />
<br />
Bon Appetit! Enjoy Y'all!! <br />
<br />
Side note: My husband doesn't like seafood (tragic!) so I make this version for my family - but if I have some seafood lovin' company over, I scoop half of the cooked gumbo into another big pot and add in some peeled, de-veined shrimp and cook on medium heat for 10 mins until the shrimp are nice and pink. Yummy!<br />
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Your roux should look like this...<br />
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