Health, Happiness and Prosperity New Year's Dinner!

Hi all!

Its that time of year again... 2010 is coming to an end.  What can you reflect on from this year?  What did you attract to your life in 2010?  What are you affirming for 2011?  On or about New Years Eve, I like to take the time to reflect on what I accomplished the past year and think about all that I want to accomplish in the coming year as well as give thanks for the blessings I've received and the blessings I'm going to receive in the years to come!  We all have something to be thankful for!  If you are reading this blog, you have at least 2 things to be thankful for!  1.  You can read and   2. You have Internet access!

As a child, each year, my grandmother would prepare black-eyed peas to eat on New Year's Day.  Black-eyed peas are a symbol of prosperity and good luck when eaten on New Years Day. This year, since I will not be home for dinner on New Year's Eve, I am planning dinner for New Year's Day! I am going to prepare a

Feast of Health, Happiness and Prosperity for New Year's Day 

to usher in the New Year!

My Feast will be a calibration of dishes from many cultures that I have gathered over the years. Each dish represents either wishes for good health, wealth, prosperity, happiness on a spiritual, mental, physical or emotional level for the new year!  I am really excited!

Check out my menu:

Sharron's New Year's Day Feast
for Health, Happiness & Prosperity

(...and the meaning of each dish)

1.  Black Eye Peas:  They are small, look like coins and expand when they are cooked so they symbolize wealth and prosperity!  These are commonly eaten in the US on New Year's day, originating in the southern states.

2.  Fish:  Whole fish with silver scales symbolize wealth and good luck as well as surplus and abundance! Not to mention that fish are packed with many nutrients that are good for us! 
  

3.  Greens:  Greens represent good family ties, spiritual growth as well as wealth because of their color.  Greens such as Kale, Collard Greens, Spinach, Cabbage and Swiss Chard are very rich in nutrients and a key to eating for good health.   I plan to prepare some Kale and Swiss Chard. 
TIP:  Don't cook down your greens!  Cook them just long enough to maintain the bright green color to ensure that you retain all of the nutrients.   Cook them about 10 minutes max. Also, the greener the greens, the more wealth ;)

4.  Grapes:  In Spain, Portugal and parts of Latin America, many people eat 12 sweet grapes, symbolizing the 12 months of the year, at midnight on December 31st.    1 grape equals good luck for each month in the coming year. I am going to have some sweet black grapes as an appetizer with my feasts!

5.  Steamed Shrimp:  In Japan, shrimp are specifically eaten for longevity.  

6. Pomegranates:   This super fruit, a native from Iran to northern India, which has been cultivated and naturalized over the whole Mediterranean region since ancient times, is gaining increasing popularity.  Pomegranates are considered the "New Fruit" and symbolize new beginnings, good luck and fertility!

Well, based on my menu, it sounds like I have a great recipe for a successful year!  Of course, in all things, put God first and give thanks to God for all of His blessings!

Hope you enjoy this and perhaps decide to try some of these dishes as well!  Do you have any plans, traditional meals for New Year's Day?

NOTE:  I will also be starting the Daniel Fast beginning on January 5, 2011.  The Daniel Fast, in a nut shell, a spiritual, mental and physical commitment to only eat certain foods and focus your spiritual thoughts in prayer and meditation.  My goal is to stay on board for 21 days, but I may extend beyond and do 40 days with a few friends and family!  If you are interested in joining me, please let me know.   I will be posting on this soon!!!

tata... and HAPPY NEW YEARS!

Coconut Milk (Yogurt) by So Delicious

If you've read any of my previous post on Coconut (anything), you will know that I'm a huge fan of all things coconut! I use coconut in my hair, on my skin, for cooking, baking.... etc. so I of course had to try this! It contains 6 active and live cultures.  These healthy bacteria aid in digestion and keep our intestinal flora in tack! It is dairy free as well as soy free and gets 2 thumbs up in my book. (If you suffer from candida, you may want to consult your holistic doctor before eating.)  The taste is also amazing.

Interesting Tidbit: I went into my basic grocery store and although they sold So Delicious Cultured Coconut Milk the one they carried was sweetened with Agave! Oh no... I'm NOT a fan of Agave as it is highly processed and has a very high percentage of fructose. You are better off with sweeteners that come from unprocessed fruits, organic or soaked fruits! (Try coconut sweeteners as well, which is sold is liquid and crystal form!)  I did however, find the cultured coconut milk (yogurt) at Whole Foods and it is sweetened with pure cane sugar. Be sure to read the labels!  I truly suggest that you try this! 

Immune System Boost! Warm Water, Lemon, Cinnamon and Raw Honey.

I often rant and rave about the Power of Lemons and its benefits as well as Cinnamon and Raw Honey, but I thought I would address this again, since the cold months are coming upon us.

In the fall and winter months, I up the ante on my Warm Water and Lemon Drink and add Cinnamon and Honey to it. This combination will boost your immune system and fight sickness. Its really great to drink this all year round, but definitely in the cold months during Cold and Flu Season.

Benefits:

Water -- our bodies are anywhere from 55% to 78% water, depending on body size and brain tissue is said to consist of 85% water. Need I say more? We need WATER to survive. A simple equation you can use to see how much water you need each day for optimal hydration is:

Your body weight

 2.2

So if you weight 150pds: 150lbs / 2.2 = 68.9 /8oz = 8.5 glasses of water a day.

For dry climate:  add + 16 oz.

For strenuous exercise:  add + 16 oz.

Lemons-- Controls your blood sugar level! This is especially good for diabetics, pre-diabetics and those looking to take preventive measure to prevent diabetes.

Cinnamon-- Stabilizes insulin levels, lowers the amount of bad cholesterol, (Great for diabetics/pre-diabetics.)

Raw Honey-- Proven to boost the immune system and helps to protect against the flu and cold as a PREVENTIVE measure. Also useful in regulating blood pressure and fighting disease of the heart.

Can I get honest for a moment here? I HAVE NOT BEEN SICK WITH A COLD OR THE FLU (maybe minor sniffles that last a day or two) IN OVER 10 YEARS! I attribute that to more then just "good immune system genes" but to the preventive daily measure that I take to protect my body against disease.

BONUS: Not only will all of these aid in boosting your immune system, they all play a role in weight control and some have credited this combination to weight lose as well! (Of course the latter statement is true coupled with a balanced diet and exercise.) 

Coconut Sweeter? Good or Gimick

Hi dolls! In case you don't know, I love everything coconut and its many uses... coconut oil for cooking, baking, hair and skin, coconut milk, butter, etc. So, I guess it was only natural, that when I discovered coconut sweetener, by Coconut Secrets I was ridiculously excited!!! I have not tried it yet but plan to this evening when I make my raw pumpkin pie and vegan pumpkin muffins! I'll be sure to post pics and maybe even a tutorial on these tasty treats! Ill also update soon on my take of the Raw Coconut Sweetener---- so look for that soon.

Enjoy you day!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheescake Recipe: raw/vegan dessert

Hola and happy Friday! Here is a great recipe for a Raw/Vegan cheesecake that I found (courtesy of . I altered it just a tad! Hope you enjoy!!!!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Tofu Cheesecake

Ingredients
FILLING
12 ounces organic dark chocolate/vegan chips
2 12-ounce packages of firm silken tofu
2 tablespoons agave nectar or 1/3 cup of homemade fruit sweetener
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons soy milk or coconut milk
1 1/4 cup organic peanut butter

CRUST
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup soy margarine
1/2 cup organic sugar or raw sugar

Optional:
chocolate syrup for garnish
Soy whip cream

Preparation: Melt chocolate over double boiler. Blend melted chocolate with 12 ounces of tofu, 1 tablespoon agave nectar, vanilla and 2 tablespoons of soy milk. In separate bowl, blend 12 ounces tofu, 1 cup peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy milk and 1 tablespoon agave nectar.
Crust: blend oats, sugar and margarine and press into a spring form pan. Cover bottom of crust with remaining peanut butter. Pour chocolate/tofu mixture in pie crust, then peanut butter/tofu mixture on top.

Viola!!!

Raw/Vegan Mint Chocolate Cheesecake

Move over Cheesecake Factory, there is a new VEGAN Cheesecake on the block! For all of my vegans/raw food dessert lovers, I had the most amazing raw/vegan cheesecake ever!

I purchased this locally (for me), but the site is WWW.ziascafe.com. The ingredients included cashews, almonds, coconut oil, dates, raw cacao beans, vanilla extract, mint and sea salt. I have to figure out how to make this and blend all the amazingly good ingredients together, but until then....I'll continue to be a regular at Zia's! If I figure out how to make it, ill ne sure to post my recipe. Any suggestions?

Happy First day of Autumn! Tips for season change...

Happy 1st day of Autumn! The leaves are getting reading to change, the squirrels are gathering their nuts, new local fruits and veggies to taste are in season and it’s a time of harvest. The air is crisp, the colors of foods are vibrant, ahhh yes, the sound of leaves swishing soothes my soul. Simply put, I love Autumn as it’s a time of change, transition, growth and maturation in nature and in us. People tend to turn inward both mentally and physically during this season as a natural instinct as the departure from Summer takes place and the preparation for Winter begins. Here are my top 5 tips on how to stay focused in Autumn! Remember.. it’s a lifestyle, it’s a journey… TOP 5 TIPS on How to Stay Focused in Autumn, mind, body and spirit:

#1. Continue to enjoy the outdoors! Although the days are shorter, Autumn is a great season to appreciate the great outdoors. Most of us spend 90% of our lives indoors, inhaling recycled air and other people's germs, so take every opportunity to get outside and enjoy the fresh crisp air. Be sure to dress in layers and keep your neck warm.
#2. Boost your Immune System! Eat foods that are rich in Vitamin C, E, Beta carotene, Zinc, Omega 3 Fatty Acids which boost your immune system naturally. Wash hands thoroughly. Take Echinacea supplements. (I usually take for 2 weeks, then stop. Do not overdo it with the echinadea).
#3. Fall Cleaning! Clean your home inside and out as well as other surroundings. This is a great time to get rid of things you accumulated over the hustle and bustle of the summer. Empty the trunk of your car and store your lawn chairs, beach accessories etc. so they are in optimal use for next year.
#4. Take a class! If you are not currently enrolled in school for the fall, look into taking a class in an area of interest or seek a certification in your field. There are tons of classes that you can take from pottery, cooking, sewing, nutrition.. the list goes on! There are free classes as well as relatively inexpensive classes that you can take. Enhance your knowledge and expand your mind!
#5. Reflect on the inner you, but NO REGRETS! What did you learn about yourself that was new this summer? Did you complete task, did you accomplish everything on your Spiritual checklist? Whatever the case may be, don’t REGRET anything! Take this time to reflect on the inner your and your growth on your journey of life. Start with…
(1) Analyze & Acknowledge
(2) Take responsibility
(3) Create a Solution
(4) Take Action

Anything that is on your list that you did not accomplish, use this time to refocus and get things done! The best way to clear your Mind of clutter to make room for new ideas and vision is to yield to your Spirit, listen to your Spirit for direction and understanding then let your Body manifest the solution and turn it into an ACCOMPLISHMENT! You will feel great once you check things off your list… then.. on to the next thing… Remember: Life is a journey…

Nameste.. xoxo

A sweeter Green Smoothie! blended to perfection...

Ahhhh...... alas... another quick video on how to make an amazing smoothie! I hope you enjoy this! It's a little sweet, but its a great "starter" green smoothie for those new to the game.... enjoy!

Top 5 Reasons to eat Oatmeal: The Truth About Oatmeal

This is my morning breakfast!









Not all oatmeal is created equal. When chosing oatmeal, be sure to read the ingredients on the box. My personal favorite and top oatmeal recommendation is Nature's Path Organic Oatmeal, No Sugar Added. Its just a purrganic blend of oats and sea salt... no extra additives and preservatives that we don't need. for breakfast, I simply add hot water (you can add warm milk to make more creamy), raisins (occasionally walnuts) and cinnamon. It's very filling and very good for you too!

TOP FIVE REASONS TO EAT OATMEAL:

#1--Oatmeal is a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber slows digestion, making you feel fuller longer result in help with controlling weight. In addition, for diabetics--- specifically the soluble fiber slows the digestion of starch, avoiding sharp rises in blood sugar levels.
#2-- Oatmeal may help lower cholesterol according to several studies.
#3-- The fibers found in oatmeal may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
#4-- Oatmeal is a good source of protein, vitamin e and several other nutrients.
#5-- Budget conscious meal!

Detox Juice Celery, parsley, spinach and apple

Hey Dolls!

So, if you read my post on on my favorite drink- Carrot, Apple, Ginger and Lemon Juice, you will know that the times that I don't prepare this at home, I go to my local juice bar and have it made for me! :)... A girl can get pampered every now and then right? :)

Well, today was one of those days. I didn't have time to JUICE, so at lunch time, I went to my favorite local juice bar and guess what! They were out of carrots. So I deviated from my norm and opted for Celery, Parsley, Spinach and Apple Juice. Not only is it super tasty, it's also super good for your too. So, this may be my alternative and I will have to try this at home. I would probably add some watercress to it... just because of all of the phenomenal benefits of watercress.

Kimberly Snyder's Smoothie Skin Facial

Hi Dolls!

I am a huge fan of Kimberly Snyder's Health and Beauty Blog. She provides some amazing health and beauty tips. Back in 2008, she posted a great recipe for a smoothie skin facial that is great for repairing your skin from within. Our skin is a reflection of what we eat and is a tell tale of what is going on inside our bodies. So pay attention to what your skin is telling you! This great smoothie will aid in (1) clearing away toxins by purifying your liver and blood (thanks to the ginger, lemon and watercress), (2) provide essential fatty oils and antioxidants (the grapes) and (3) help with hydration (the cucumber, which is 96%% water). In addition, watercress is valued for clearing and improving the complexion to give you a nice overall health glow.

The recipe is as follows:

*6 cups green grapes (try to find seeded organic ones, which have not been genetically modified in any way and are naturally fertile and vibrant)
* 2 inch square of ginger
* ½ bunch watercress
* 1 large cucumber
* Juice of one lemon

Blend all the ingredients together in a blender (EXCEPT FOR THE LEMON JUICE). Squeeze the lemon juice in and stir. Voila!

Neopol Smokery, Belvedere Square

picture courtesy of Neopolsmokery.com

Happy Monday!

So I hit the beach yet again this weekend! Love it, love it love it! (in the voice of Jim Carrey from skit on In Living Color... remember that?)

Anyway, so I packed up the chairs, tent and beach blanket AGAIN this weekend and hit the road... I stocked the cooler with all sorts of decedent treats.. organic gold cherries (yummie), grapes, blueberries, pretzels, hummus, pita chips, wine (local of course from Boordy Vineyards in Peach and Jazzberry) and of course.. my all time favorite!!!... drum roll please..... Smoked Salmon Spread from Neopol Savory Smokery in Belvedere Square Market in Baltimore. This place is a hidden gem in the Baltimore area. For those of you who know about it, I'm sure you will agree and for those who do not and love anything 'smoked', check them out! The owner is amazing and is always super friendly. Their ingredients are local (they support local agriculture) and most of the items on their menu are organic and free range. Their veggies are always in season. Its very important to eat veggies that are in season as it supports your overall balance. They feature hundreds of fresh ingredients and items from Smoked Salmon Salad to Savory cheese pies, each one sure to tickle your palette. Neopol also caters private events. I plan on having them cater an event at my home really soon! Anyone else have a Neopol favorite? LMK! I would love to try it next time I go!

Sweet treat? try Righteously Raw Chocolate Bars by Earth Source Organics

One of MY FAVORITE sweet treats right now is Righteously Raw chocolate truffle bars by Earth Source Organics. My Fav flavor is the 90% Cacao Goji Cacao Bar. Its raw cocoa covering high frequency berries and luscious figs. The best part about this guilt-free treat is its certified organic, Kosher, Vegan, Soy and Gluten Free, has no refined sugars and is made in a Nut-Free facility and its RAW! In general, the act of heating food over 116 degrees F destroys enzymes. Not so with this chocolate! Raw chocolate is not heated over 116 degrees F so all of the nutrients from the chocolate are still in tack so you get all the antioxidant benefits from the Cocoa. So it taste good and its good for you. :)

Locally (in Maryland that is), I've only been able to find this treat at my local natural store, The Natural. Ticket price is about $5.99 per/bar. You can also order online. So, when you are craving that chocolate fix, substitute the high fructose, DEAD chocolate for this!

To find out more about this AMAZING treat and the other options, check out Righteously Raw at Earthsourceorganics.com. You will be pleasantly pleased. Guilt-free pleasure! Yum!

Try all flavors of the Organic Raw Chocolate – Righteously Raw Chocolate Bars: