Okay, it's been about 2 maybe 3 days since I last blogged about just little ol' me. I did just post a fun "21 Raw Questions" response to a great blog post by Bitt of Bitt of Raw blog. You should check it out for yourself.
As for eating and life, well, I honestly can't remember all that I ate yesterday. I do believe I had my usual smoothies in the morning and the evening - same with today. I know I had my salad roll-ups both yesterday and today, and my fruit bowls, and my raw cacao balls, and raw crackers. I cheated on chips (as I seem to keep doing), and had my tea (I'm actually having a cup right now). So, nothing different or unusual for me. However, the one thing that's still constant is I'm not getting to bed early enough for the time I rise in the morning, and I'm eating late cause of it. In fact, it's 11:16pm right now. I know, I should stop and go to bed right now. Easier said than done. I need to wind down first.
Plus, I didn't get my exercise in. I do plan to make a super effort to do yoga tomorrow after work. So I really need to stick to my guns on this! I know that once school is out for Summer, and the stress on my son is lessened, the anxiety will become minimal, and I will be more relieved as well. Dealing with a super intelligent, teen-aged son with OCD can be challenging. Especially when the mother (me), has OCD too. =)
On another note, I'm feeling pretty good about my direction, and my future. I just need to focus on cleaning up those things around me that keep me from moving forward. I feel I can do a better job at that, now that the fear is gone. Plus, positive affirmations always help too!
I don't know if you knew this, but I have another blogsite, www.LifeElementsRawk.com, for the purpose of marketing and selling Elements for Life products. They are the wonderful raw super foods that many raw foodies like myself distribute. However, I will confess, I am the only one buying for myself. I've been a distributor now for about a year. I absolutely love the products, but they are a bit pricey. It's difficult during these economic times to continue with anything that isn't creating the return that's needed, and is more of a financial burden. As for this particular venture, I'm on a fence. I didn't make my required monthly purchase in April due to lack of funds. I will probably lose my distributorship and my initial investment if I don't make it soon. I just don't have it to spare right now. Then I think to myself that maybe I should just let it lapse, and consider it in the future. I have enjoyed the products, but really can't afford to keep up with the purchase requirements - especially if I'm not selling any. It kind of reminds me of Amway.
Plus, there are so many individuals out there that are distributing these products too. Perhaps they are also having the same issues as me, I'm not sure. I just know that it's not passive income for me, and costing me more right now. I have some major goals...one of them is to rid myself of any unnecessary debt, including unsecured debts. This is most challenging, and will take some time. However, I'm also trying to offset that by increasing my income through multiple streams of revenue. Writing, publishing, and selling raw books is one of those streams. So far that's working, and I'm glad. It's actually helped raise money to help pay our mortgage two months in a row. You see, right now we are a one-family income (my income), and have been for about 8 months. It's been a struggle, but we are managing. I know that this too shall pass, but in the meantime I need to stay focused on getting through it.
My other goal is to be more involved with educating others on the benefits of a living and whole food lifestyle, specifically a high raw food diet lifestyle. I want to help with the efforts to provide better lunches to our children, and to help others help themselves to minimize if not rid themselves altogether of deadly diseases and illnesses that are a direct link to food and lifestyle. To do this I want to improve my own education and lifestyle, so I can be more effective. That is why it's so important for me to take care of these immediate needs I have.
I also want to help my son to achieve his personal goals through education, and experiences. College is just around the corner, so we need to prepare the best we can. Brad is an amazing kid. I know he will do well in life, regardless of the challenge. I'm so happy that he wants me to be a big part of his life. =)
I have other goals as well, but first things first. Health, which means eating habits, rest, and exercise. Then finances, reduce financial burdens by eliminating unnecessary debts and expenses. And focus on service and personal direction...you get the idea.
Well, I think I have exhausted this post, it's time for bed! Have a great night, and thanks for stopping by!
Peace!=)
Debbie
p.s.
Look for another recipe post later this week, on www.RawRifficFood.com!
Showing posts with label daily raw. Show all posts
Showing posts with label daily raw. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's day! How my weekend went...
First off, I'd just like to wish all you moms out there a very "Happy Mother's Day"!
Well, I have been having a great time using my work friend's Vitamix 5200. "Boy does that blender rawk! The smoothies, the sauces, all the goodies made in that thing are smooth and delicious!" I really need to save up for one of my own!
Speaking of sauces, I made my Sweet Cheesy Kale Chips this weekend using the Vitamix. I was so into making the stuff, I forgot to put in the nutritional yeast that helps add the nutty flavor. Oh well, they still came out pretty darned good! Check out the recipe for yourself! I also made some raw ice cream - vanilla, and chocolate-carob. The Vitamix really made a difference in the consistency of the ice cream mix that I placed in the freezer. This batch is super creamy and delish! Still no need for an ice cream maker. Check my recipe blog later for the recipe and the pics.
Oh, you know what else? I don't know if I mentioned this previously, but my other good friend from work has an herb garden. His wife and him have been giving me fresh herbs right from the garden. I mean big bag fulls. They have given me basil, dill, cilantro, parsley, mint, and tomatoes (not an herb, but still from the garden). I've been feeling rather blessed. Well anyway, they gave me tons more. So this weekend I decided to dehydrate some of it to make dried herbs for my food prep. While I was dehydrating them, the dehydrator kept shutting off. It must have done that 6 times before it finally stayed on long enough to dry them. You see, I'm still using an old Nesco dehydrator (the round kind with no temp control). Another item for the wish list is an Excalibur dehydrator. I would love to own one of those things too! I use the heck out of my Nesco, and it shows.
Well, I was beginning to worry that I wouldn't be able to dehydrate my kale chips...but luckily the Nesco turned back on and stayed on overnight. The chips came out fine. I hope to make a few more things today with it, so hopefully it will hang in there a little while longer. Just knowing how I feel about the Vitamix, I'm sure I'd feel the same way about the Excalibur. I know that one day I will have these items for my very own! Patience...
Yesterday I also managed to take time out an watch my copy of "Simply Raw, Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days". Wow! This documentary was so "rawsome"! It was so well done, so heart-felt, I actually cried a few times out of happiness for the people who made the transition, and found hope in their health again! It's definitely a movie to see! Whether you suffer from diabetes or not, this movie will make an impact on you and how you think about your health, your diet, the medical industry, and raw food.
After watching that, I decided to take out my "Food Matters" video and watch that again. Another brilliant documentary to watch! Watching these two movies really empower you to want to go out and spread the word on using raw food to heal and feel well! "Hey, that's what I want to do!"
As for my daily raw, and the 100-day challenge through Raw Fu, I've been doing good overall. I have been eating a little more organic corn chips than I should, but everything else has been high raw! As you know, I was eating a lot of raw chocolate too...but I have cut way back on that too! For the most part, my daily diet consists a tall glass of water with MSM and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then later a small morning fruit smoothie (antioxidant rich), maybe a raw bar or mostly raw apple with raw almond butter to dip. Then for lunch I'll have a big salad of greens, seaweed, tomatoe, cucumber, and maybe avocado, hemp seed, and a little bragg's and kelp flakes. I'll also have a Kombucha with it or just plain water. Then for a late afternoon snack I'll have fruit (unless I'm still full). Then for my early dinner I have a huge green smoothie! That's it! The only thing that's not included is the occasional corn chip binge, and the two weeks of raw chocolate I consumed...
Well, that's it for today. I need to get back to working on my site, and hopefully making my first web video. We'll see. Till' next time, have a great day, and a blessed week!
Peace! :)
- Debbie
Well, I have been having a great time using my work friend's Vitamix 5200. "Boy does that blender rawk! The smoothies, the sauces, all the goodies made in that thing are smooth and delicious!" I really need to save up for one of my own!
Speaking of sauces, I made my Sweet Cheesy Kale Chips this weekend using the Vitamix. I was so into making the stuff, I forgot to put in the nutritional yeast that helps add the nutty flavor. Oh well, they still came out pretty darned good! Check out the recipe for yourself! I also made some raw ice cream - vanilla, and chocolate-carob. The Vitamix really made a difference in the consistency of the ice cream mix that I placed in the freezer. This batch is super creamy and delish! Still no need for an ice cream maker. Check my recipe blog later for the recipe and the pics.
Oh, you know what else? I don't know if I mentioned this previously, but my other good friend from work has an herb garden. His wife and him have been giving me fresh herbs right from the garden. I mean big bag fulls. They have given me basil, dill, cilantro, parsley, mint, and tomatoes (not an herb, but still from the garden). I've been feeling rather blessed. Well anyway, they gave me tons more. So this weekend I decided to dehydrate some of it to make dried herbs for my food prep. While I was dehydrating them, the dehydrator kept shutting off. It must have done that 6 times before it finally stayed on long enough to dry them. You see, I'm still using an old Nesco dehydrator (the round kind with no temp control). Another item for the wish list is an Excalibur dehydrator. I would love to own one of those things too! I use the heck out of my Nesco, and it shows.
Well, I was beginning to worry that I wouldn't be able to dehydrate my kale chips...but luckily the Nesco turned back on and stayed on overnight. The chips came out fine. I hope to make a few more things today with it, so hopefully it will hang in there a little while longer. Just knowing how I feel about the Vitamix, I'm sure I'd feel the same way about the Excalibur. I know that one day I will have these items for my very own! Patience...
Yesterday I also managed to take time out an watch my copy of "Simply Raw, Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days". Wow! This documentary was so "rawsome"! It was so well done, so heart-felt, I actually cried a few times out of happiness for the people who made the transition, and found hope in their health again! It's definitely a movie to see! Whether you suffer from diabetes or not, this movie will make an impact on you and how you think about your health, your diet, the medical industry, and raw food.
After watching that, I decided to take out my "Food Matters" video and watch that again. Another brilliant documentary to watch! Watching these two movies really empower you to want to go out and spread the word on using raw food to heal and feel well! "Hey, that's what I want to do!"
As for my daily raw, and the 100-day challenge through Raw Fu, I've been doing good overall. I have been eating a little more organic corn chips than I should, but everything else has been high raw! As you know, I was eating a lot of raw chocolate too...but I have cut way back on that too! For the most part, my daily diet consists a tall glass of water with MSM and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then later a small morning fruit smoothie (antioxidant rich), maybe a raw bar or mostly raw apple with raw almond butter to dip. Then for lunch I'll have a big salad of greens, seaweed, tomatoe, cucumber, and maybe avocado, hemp seed, and a little bragg's and kelp flakes. I'll also have a Kombucha with it or just plain water. Then for a late afternoon snack I'll have fruit (unless I'm still full). Then for my early dinner I have a huge green smoothie! That's it! The only thing that's not included is the occasional corn chip binge, and the two weeks of raw chocolate I consumed...
Well, that's it for today. I need to get back to working on my site, and hopefully making my first web video. We'll see. Till' next time, have a great day, and a blessed week!
Peace! :)
- Debbie
Saturday, May 9, 2009
My daily raw...what's happening?
Hello everyone! Hope all is well and blessed. A lot has been going on these days. I have been working on my website, Raw-Riffic Food adding lots of new content and resource links. I also created a new blog through WordPress, Raw-Riffic Food Recipes. I decided that I wanted a separate space for my recipes that could also link to my site. It's pretty cool, and I've already gotten a several hits.
I also have been doing a lot of reading and research, and listening to every podcast and web-show on raw food and the raw food lifestyle as possible. I'm learning quite a lot! With all this activity, plus my usual involvement with my son and his extra-curricular activities (band), as well as full-time work with Wisdom (makers of the first GRAS stevia sweetener - and the only one that is truly 100% natural, using pure water extraction - no chemicals whatsoever), I haven't had much time to create any new and exciting recipes, or blog about my personal raw journey. So here I am tonight, making an effort.
On the book front, I have sold several of my books, "Raw-Riffic Food's 101 Super-Charged Juices, Shakes & Smoothies" through the help of my husband. He has been showing it to people at his local gym. I may even have my very first demo through a contact from his gym. I'm waiting on my books to arrive before we can commit. So, that's pretty exciting for me!
Which leads me to another fun and exciting adventure. My co-worker Chip, is loaning me his Vitamix 5200. Wow! That baby rawks! I can't believe what a difference it makes in my smoothies and nut mylks! It is awesome! I truly hope to have one of my own someday. But for now, I will enjoy every moment I get to use this loaner. I will have the "Chipster 5200" for at least another 5 days. I will try to get my hubby to video tape me using it. It will be my first video clip to post (if we do it).
I also have been tasting and reviewing a variety of raw chocolates with some non-raw foodies at work. I had purchased quite a variety over the past few months just so I could taste them and share them with others, and give my opinion of them. There are quite a few yummos out there!
On another note, I have had so much raw chocolate over the past two weeks, that I am starting to really understand what Paul Nison is saying about it. Don't get me wrong, I will forever love and enjoy "raw" chocolate! But I definitely feel that raw chocolate is so potent - it is very much like a drug. I think it does have some benefit, but it's not something to take lightly or to consider the cure-all superfood. It's super alright - but in definite moderation. I'm starting to feel that way about my favorite Kombucha too. Since I don't drink anymore, or drink coffee, these two things really get me high when I have too much! I can sort of handle them on a daily basis for just a few days, then it starts to take it's toll. However, I could get away with having raw chocolate every day, as long as I make it using a small portion of chocolate. But having a whole bar every day leads to more within the day (it's addictive to me), and then the next thing you know I have had way too much! I am truly a raw chocoholic! No doubt about it! More to come on this subject.
Some of my reading has included books on the subject of the law of attraction - which I'm really into these days. It's really changing my life, and helping me have a new perspective. One that's closer to how I felt and lived when I was a young girl. There is definitely something to be said about being clear with your intention and being positive. It's outstanding!
Well, that's just a little glimpse into what I've been up to. Hope to write again real soon! Till then, take care! Peace! :)
- Debbie
I also have been doing a lot of reading and research, and listening to every podcast and web-show on raw food and the raw food lifestyle as possible. I'm learning quite a lot! With all this activity, plus my usual involvement with my son and his extra-curricular activities (band), as well as full-time work with Wisdom (makers of the first GRAS stevia sweetener - and the only one that is truly 100% natural, using pure water extraction - no chemicals whatsoever), I haven't had much time to create any new and exciting recipes, or blog about my personal raw journey. So here I am tonight, making an effort.
On the book front, I have sold several of my books, "Raw-Riffic Food's 101 Super-Charged Juices, Shakes & Smoothies" through the help of my husband. He has been showing it to people at his local gym. I may even have my very first demo through a contact from his gym. I'm waiting on my books to arrive before we can commit. So, that's pretty exciting for me!
Which leads me to another fun and exciting adventure. My co-worker Chip, is loaning me his Vitamix 5200. Wow! That baby rawks! I can't believe what a difference it makes in my smoothies and nut mylks! It is awesome! I truly hope to have one of my own someday. But for now, I will enjoy every moment I get to use this loaner. I will have the "Chipster 5200" for at least another 5 days. I will try to get my hubby to video tape me using it. It will be my first video clip to post (if we do it).
I also have been tasting and reviewing a variety of raw chocolates with some non-raw foodies at work. I had purchased quite a variety over the past few months just so I could taste them and share them with others, and give my opinion of them. There are quite a few yummos out there!
On another note, I have had so much raw chocolate over the past two weeks, that I am starting to really understand what Paul Nison is saying about it. Don't get me wrong, I will forever love and enjoy "raw" chocolate! But I definitely feel that raw chocolate is so potent - it is very much like a drug. I think it does have some benefit, but it's not something to take lightly or to consider the cure-all superfood. It's super alright - but in definite moderation. I'm starting to feel that way about my favorite Kombucha too. Since I don't drink anymore, or drink coffee, these two things really get me high when I have too much! I can sort of handle them on a daily basis for just a few days, then it starts to take it's toll. However, I could get away with having raw chocolate every day, as long as I make it using a small portion of chocolate. But having a whole bar every day leads to more within the day (it's addictive to me), and then the next thing you know I have had way too much! I am truly a raw chocoholic! No doubt about it! More to come on this subject.
Some of my reading has included books on the subject of the law of attraction - which I'm really into these days. It's really changing my life, and helping me have a new perspective. One that's closer to how I felt and lived when I was a young girl. There is definitely something to be said about being clear with your intention and being positive. It's outstanding!
Well, that's just a little glimpse into what I've been up to. Hope to write again real soon! Till then, take care! Peace! :)
- Debbie
Sunday, March 29, 2009
The Master Cleanse, and other happenings
Well, I haven't blogged for a while...I guess you are probably used to that by now. I realize as much as I'd like to blog daily or even weekly, I have to be happy with just being able to blog when time permits. This has been a very busy year so far. My son has a busy schedule, which includes me since I'm an active parent. Work has been busy, as well as other happenings in my personal life. However, eventually I will be able to spend more time blogging, and sharing my experiences, recipes, and ideas with you.
The most recent happening I wish to share is my experience on the Master Cleanse. For those of you who have not heard of the Master Cleanse, this is a "colon cleanse" also known as the "Lemonade Diet". The average time-frame for this cleanse is about 10 days. I actually made it to about 9 1/2 days. The cleanse is simple, and it works. The hardest part is making your mind up to stay focused and just do it. The first couple of days are also hard since you do experience major detox symptoms.
I started the cleanse on 3/18/09 in the evening by drinking a laxative herbal tea called Smooth Move. The next morning and every morning after throughout the cleanse, I consumed a "salt flush" drink made of 2 teaspoons sea salt and a large 12oz glass of purified water. Then I would have the herbal laxative tea again. I drank nothing but the special lemonade concoction made of 2T fresh lemon juice, 2 T organic maple syrup grade B, 1/10 tsp of cayenne pepper (sometimes a little more), and 8oz water. I would drink anywhere from 6-12 glasses of this stuff depending upon the day and how I felt. Then at night I would have the herbal laxative tea again just right before bedtime. Believe it or not, you don't feel hungry. You do feel energized by the third and fourth day. The only thing that I really dealt with was the emotional part of not being able to eat my favorite raw food treats. I was definitely able to maintain without breaking down, and did find pleasure in preparing foods for my family without feeling deprived. However, by the weekend (day 9 1/2) I was ready for the break.
As I said before, the first couple of days were tough. The detoxing I experienced wasn't severe but still uncomfortable. I did have some headaches, a lot of watery bowel movements - most of the 9 days, and some cramping. In the beginning I had some flu-like symptoms too. My tongue was actually completely white on the third day - very gross! It hasn't been that way since. The cool part is I feel so light, my body feels fresh, I lost 11 pounds of the weight I had gained back, and my skin was smooth.
Now breaking the fast was also an experience. One thing I have to say before I go into the details of day 9 and how I broke my fast a little after that...is, if you do this cleanse I recommend that you make time for yourself to be close to home, with not a lot of things to distract you or put you in a situation that will make it so you can't handle your detox symptoms. I spent all day 9 at a drumline competition with my son. We were gone from 8:00am till past midnight! Although I made my lemonade and brought it along with water, I didn't want to drink too much and have to deal with toilet issues. So I just drank enough to stay hydrated, but not enough to have detox issues. Anyway, by the time we got home I was so tired, somewhat hungry, and bored and depleted - didn't want my lemonade, that I decided to break the fast. It was also 2:00am in the morning. I should have had juice, but I was craving salt, and ended up binging on a couple of cups of organic corn chips (sea salt, corn, sunflower oil - baked). These were good, but gave me a tummy ache. Then I made the mistake of having about 1/4 bottle of Kombucha tea (a favorite of mine), which caused more detox issues. Needless to say today, Sunday (Day 10), I chose to drink the juice of one orange, and then drank water all day long until about an hour ago. I then made a Hawaiian papaya smoothie, and I did manage to eat 4 pieces of my son's sushi - it was too good to pass up, and a piece of a Righteously Raw Maca bar! I still am going to take it easy, cause my stomach has shrunk, and my body only wants a little bit of food. So, I'll keep you posted.
Originally I wanted to break the fast and go into a juice feast for a couple of days, but obviously I wasn't committed to that...
Overall I felt that the cleanse was definitely worth my time. I realized a lot of things about myself, including that when I truly put my mind to something I can achieve the results I want. I also realized that food truly is an emotional part of my make-up. I view it as an art, as a treasure, as a form of security, and so forth. However, I realize also that there are other things I can use for these feelings in place of food, and that food is strictly to feed my body. You'll laugh but I checked out a bunch of raw books from the library, and was writing down recipes the whole time I was fasting! Talk about teasing!
While fasting I did prepare some raw treats for my family to help them naturally detox a bit from their normal way of eating. I made delicious raw granola. I got the recipe from Raw Food World and changed it up a bit. I also made some delicious salads too. Today I went to Whole Foods and the Asian market and purchased a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables - I'm all ready for a raw week! So I'll definitely have some recipe ideas to share here pretty soon. I'm also planning on doing my first video clip on the variety of raw chocolate bars that are out there - which I think will be fun! I'm still updating my website every chance I get. I want it to be a real source of information for everyone. So check it out when you can. Let me know what you think. Visit www.rawrifficfood.com.
I'm just about finished reading The Law of Attraction, and the 80/10/10 Diet. I also started reading Money and the Law of Attraction. I hope to give you quick reviews when I'm done.
Well for now, that's it. Peace to all!
Debbie :)
The most recent happening I wish to share is my experience on the Master Cleanse. For those of you who have not heard of the Master Cleanse, this is a "colon cleanse" also known as the "Lemonade Diet". The average time-frame for this cleanse is about 10 days. I actually made it to about 9 1/2 days. The cleanse is simple, and it works. The hardest part is making your mind up to stay focused and just do it. The first couple of days are also hard since you do experience major detox symptoms.
I started the cleanse on 3/18/09 in the evening by drinking a laxative herbal tea called Smooth Move. The next morning and every morning after throughout the cleanse, I consumed a "salt flush" drink made of 2 teaspoons sea salt and a large 12oz glass of purified water. Then I would have the herbal laxative tea again. I drank nothing but the special lemonade concoction made of 2T fresh lemon juice, 2 T organic maple syrup grade B, 1/10 tsp of cayenne pepper (sometimes a little more), and 8oz water. I would drink anywhere from 6-12 glasses of this stuff depending upon the day and how I felt. Then at night I would have the herbal laxative tea again just right before bedtime. Believe it or not, you don't feel hungry. You do feel energized by the third and fourth day. The only thing that I really dealt with was the emotional part of not being able to eat my favorite raw food treats. I was definitely able to maintain without breaking down, and did find pleasure in preparing foods for my family without feeling deprived. However, by the weekend (day 9 1/2) I was ready for the break.
As I said before, the first couple of days were tough. The detoxing I experienced wasn't severe but still uncomfortable. I did have some headaches, a lot of watery bowel movements - most of the 9 days, and some cramping. In the beginning I had some flu-like symptoms too. My tongue was actually completely white on the third day - very gross! It hasn't been that way since. The cool part is I feel so light, my body feels fresh, I lost 11 pounds of the weight I had gained back, and my skin was smooth.
Now breaking the fast was also an experience. One thing I have to say before I go into the details of day 9 and how I broke my fast a little after that...is, if you do this cleanse I recommend that you make time for yourself to be close to home, with not a lot of things to distract you or put you in a situation that will make it so you can't handle your detox symptoms. I spent all day 9 at a drumline competition with my son. We were gone from 8:00am till past midnight! Although I made my lemonade and brought it along with water, I didn't want to drink too much and have to deal with toilet issues. So I just drank enough to stay hydrated, but not enough to have detox issues. Anyway, by the time we got home I was so tired, somewhat hungry, and bored and depleted - didn't want my lemonade, that I decided to break the fast. It was also 2:00am in the morning. I should have had juice, but I was craving salt, and ended up binging on a couple of cups of organic corn chips (sea salt, corn, sunflower oil - baked). These were good, but gave me a tummy ache. Then I made the mistake of having about 1/4 bottle of Kombucha tea (a favorite of mine), which caused more detox issues. Needless to say today, Sunday (Day 10), I chose to drink the juice of one orange, and then drank water all day long until about an hour ago. I then made a Hawaiian papaya smoothie, and I did manage to eat 4 pieces of my son's sushi - it was too good to pass up, and a piece of a Righteously Raw Maca bar! I still am going to take it easy, cause my stomach has shrunk, and my body only wants a little bit of food. So, I'll keep you posted.
Originally I wanted to break the fast and go into a juice feast for a couple of days, but obviously I wasn't committed to that...
Overall I felt that the cleanse was definitely worth my time. I realized a lot of things about myself, including that when I truly put my mind to something I can achieve the results I want. I also realized that food truly is an emotional part of my make-up. I view it as an art, as a treasure, as a form of security, and so forth. However, I realize also that there are other things I can use for these feelings in place of food, and that food is strictly to feed my body. You'll laugh but I checked out a bunch of raw books from the library, and was writing down recipes the whole time I was fasting! Talk about teasing!
While fasting I did prepare some raw treats for my family to help them naturally detox a bit from their normal way of eating. I made delicious raw granola. I got the recipe from Raw Food World and changed it up a bit. I also made some delicious salads too. Today I went to Whole Foods and the Asian market and purchased a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables - I'm all ready for a raw week! So I'll definitely have some recipe ideas to share here pretty soon. I'm also planning on doing my first video clip on the variety of raw chocolate bars that are out there - which I think will be fun! I'm still updating my website every chance I get. I want it to be a real source of information for everyone. So check it out when you can. Let me know what you think. Visit www.rawrifficfood.com.
I'm just about finished reading The Law of Attraction, and the 80/10/10 Diet. I also started reading Money and the Law of Attraction. I hope to give you quick reviews when I'm done.
Well for now, that's it. Peace to all!
Debbie :)
Sunday, January 18, 2009
What's up with Debbie?
Once again it’s been a while since I blogged – so forgive me. The truth is, I don’t like writing unless I have something to say or share. Although I have made quite a few things that I felt were delicious and easy to make, the photos came out terrible. So, I didn’t feel inspired to share them. I’ve also made some things that were just awful…edible, but not mentally edible. I definitely didn’t want to share those things with you – yuk! Then I viewed a post that Bunny left on Raw Fu about raw food disasters. Boy, is it ever true sometimes. So I know that many aspiring rawfoodists suffer from this too.
Anyway, I’ve been going through a lot of different things over the past couple of weeks, and I thought I would talk about that. I am participating in another 100-day raw food challenge on Raw Fu. It started on January 1st. I have been so dedicated to following this challenge through up until about 5 days ago. I’m still about 80-90% focused, but having trouble. I don’t know if it’s from the cold weather, anxiety, or what, but I broke down and started sneaking Trader Joe’s organic corn chips again. Usually when you crave something, it’s because you are supposedly lacking in a nutrient of some kind. Well, the only thing I can think of is salt or sodium. The ingredients of the chips are just organic corn, organic sunflower seed oil, and organic sea salt. So it has to be the salt, since I have been getting plenty of fat lately through avocados, nuts and seeds – probably too much fat. Anyway, I also noticed that I feel thirsty but nothing is satisfying me. I’ve been bloating a lot, and feeling constipated again. So it has to be the chips, and some raw food combining. Maybe too many nuts and seeds carried over from the holidays. Something has to give!
Well, over the past couple of weeks I have also been reading several different books. I'm currently reading The Raw Food Diet Myth
, which is an excellent book. I truly have benefited from reading this book, because it helps me see where I'm fitting into this whole raw food thing right now. You can learn more about this book by reading the review posted by Raw Food Right Now. The other book I'm reading is the book my son got me for Christmas, Oneness With All Life: Inspirational Selections from A New Earth
. It's more of an inspirational daily reading book than anything else, but it has been a real help to me - a lot like The Secret
, has been to me - another book I highly recommend you read. In addition to these two books, I decided to read Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days, Second Edition
. This will be the second time I read this book. This time around I'm more serious about actually doing the Master Cleanse.
In fact, yesterday when I was at Whole Foods I came so close to not buying any food, and just getting the lemons for the cleanse...but I chickened out. I figured, "I just made carrot burgers - can't let them go to waste." What an excuse right? Well, I believe that in order for any kind of fast, or change to happen, you have to be mentally and spiritually committed in order to make the physical commitment. I'm ready spiritually, but not quite there mentally. I have a lot of anxiety related to the fear of failing in seeing the cleanse through the whole 10 days. This is pretty much the reason why I haven't committed to the global juice feast yet. I know one day I'll be ready - just not now. Part of my fear of failing is that I have had so much personal stress in my life that I have been dealing with over the past 8 months that just being raw has been major. I'm so happy for changing to a raw diet, but it came at a time that wasn't acceptable to my family and coworkers. Now it is, because they have seen the miraculous transformation in me. So now I get the support I need to make it happen.
I have been hit with financial stresses, work stresses, relationship challenges, scheduling challenges, sleep deprivation, and such, that it has been a juggling act - plus I have so many damned interests that I want to pursue. Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful for each and every day that I have managed to find the balance I need in my life, but I am still striving for more. Life is definitely looking up in my eyes, because I feel it in my heart, and I'm in a different place mentally. Don't get me wrong, I'm still suffering from the occasional anxiety though. What do you expect from an obsessive compulsive raw foodie like myself? Lol... :)
Well, I did decide that I truly need to finish my vision board (which is half way done and in my closet - good place for it - not!). Also, I am going to start the cleanse probably next week. This way I can save on groceries and start my very needed cleanse. I realized while writing this, that part of my bloating and constipation is not just due from food combining (cause I really haven't been that bad), but it could very well be from just eating too much - even if it's too much raw food, too much food is too much food, and it's hard on the digestive system! My body needs a break!
I've been watching Matt Monarch's and Angela Stoke's show, Raw Success, every day, and Matt has been talking a lot about the importance of colon cleansing. So I realize I really need to get myself mentally geared up to do a colon hydrotherapy session and soon! I started looking into it after Raw Fu's Bunny did one, but then chickened out. So, I'm going to definitely add this procedure to my vision board of things I want and need to do.
There are so many things that I want to do and accomplish, but prioritizing them or even grouping them is difficult. I'm just now relearning how to balance my life to make time for myself and those things that serve me and my family better both spiritually, mentally, and physically - but it's not an easy task. We get so stuck in our ways, right or wrong, and habits are hard to break. I just try to take one day at a time, and set mini goals as well as big goals. Plus I'm learning not to be so upset, or disappointed when things don't work out as I thought they would or should, and learn to see the value in all experiences. That is truly a part of being grateful. I have a journal to start writing in each day of what I'm grateful for. So far, I have mainly written it on my computer - but I will write in this journal...I will...lol...
Well, I want to write more, but need to close for now and take care of some other things around the house. The next post will be about the books I finish reading, yoga, and hopefully the beginning of my master cleanse. Maybe I'll write sooner and post some recipes, we'll see. Until then, have a blessed fill week!
Peace!
- Debbie :)
Anyway, I’ve been going through a lot of different things over the past couple of weeks, and I thought I would talk about that. I am participating in another 100-day raw food challenge on Raw Fu. It started on January 1st. I have been so dedicated to following this challenge through up until about 5 days ago. I’m still about 80-90% focused, but having trouble. I don’t know if it’s from the cold weather, anxiety, or what, but I broke down and started sneaking Trader Joe’s organic corn chips again. Usually when you crave something, it’s because you are supposedly lacking in a nutrient of some kind. Well, the only thing I can think of is salt or sodium. The ingredients of the chips are just organic corn, organic sunflower seed oil, and organic sea salt. So it has to be the salt, since I have been getting plenty of fat lately through avocados, nuts and seeds – probably too much fat. Anyway, I also noticed that I feel thirsty but nothing is satisfying me. I’ve been bloating a lot, and feeling constipated again. So it has to be the chips, and some raw food combining. Maybe too many nuts and seeds carried over from the holidays. Something has to give!
Well, over the past couple of weeks I have also been reading several different books. I'm currently reading The Raw Food Diet Myth
, which is an excellent book. I truly have benefited from reading this book, because it helps me see where I'm fitting into this whole raw food thing right now. You can learn more about this book by reading the review posted by Raw Food Right Now. The other book I'm reading is the book my son got me for Christmas, Oneness With All Life: Inspirational Selections from A New Earth. It's more of an inspirational daily reading book than anything else, but it has been a real help to me - a lot like The Secret, has been to me - another book I highly recommend you read. In addition to these two books, I decided to read Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days, Second Edition. This will be the second time I read this book. This time around I'm more serious about actually doing the Master Cleanse.In fact, yesterday when I was at Whole Foods I came so close to not buying any food, and just getting the lemons for the cleanse...but I chickened out. I figured, "I just made carrot burgers - can't let them go to waste." What an excuse right? Well, I believe that in order for any kind of fast, or change to happen, you have to be mentally and spiritually committed in order to make the physical commitment. I'm ready spiritually, but not quite there mentally. I have a lot of anxiety related to the fear of failing in seeing the cleanse through the whole 10 days. This is pretty much the reason why I haven't committed to the global juice feast yet. I know one day I'll be ready - just not now. Part of my fear of failing is that I have had so much personal stress in my life that I have been dealing with over the past 8 months that just being raw has been major. I'm so happy for changing to a raw diet, but it came at a time that wasn't acceptable to my family and coworkers. Now it is, because they have seen the miraculous transformation in me. So now I get the support I need to make it happen.
I have been hit with financial stresses, work stresses, relationship challenges, scheduling challenges, sleep deprivation, and such, that it has been a juggling act - plus I have so many damned interests that I want to pursue. Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful for each and every day that I have managed to find the balance I need in my life, but I am still striving for more. Life is definitely looking up in my eyes, because I feel it in my heart, and I'm in a different place mentally. Don't get me wrong, I'm still suffering from the occasional anxiety though. What do you expect from an obsessive compulsive raw foodie like myself? Lol... :)
Well, I did decide that I truly need to finish my vision board (which is half way done and in my closet - good place for it - not!). Also, I am going to start the cleanse probably next week. This way I can save on groceries and start my very needed cleanse. I realized while writing this, that part of my bloating and constipation is not just due from food combining (cause I really haven't been that bad), but it could very well be from just eating too much - even if it's too much raw food, too much food is too much food, and it's hard on the digestive system! My body needs a break!
I've been watching Matt Monarch's and Angela Stoke's show, Raw Success, every day, and Matt has been talking a lot about the importance of colon cleansing. So I realize I really need to get myself mentally geared up to do a colon hydrotherapy session and soon! I started looking into it after Raw Fu's Bunny did one, but then chickened out. So, I'm going to definitely add this procedure to my vision board of things I want and need to do.
There are so many things that I want to do and accomplish, but prioritizing them or even grouping them is difficult. I'm just now relearning how to balance my life to make time for myself and those things that serve me and my family better both spiritually, mentally, and physically - but it's not an easy task. We get so stuck in our ways, right or wrong, and habits are hard to break. I just try to take one day at a time, and set mini goals as well as big goals. Plus I'm learning not to be so upset, or disappointed when things don't work out as I thought they would or should, and learn to see the value in all experiences. That is truly a part of being grateful. I have a journal to start writing in each day of what I'm grateful for. So far, I have mainly written it on my computer - but I will write in this journal...I will...lol...
Well, I want to write more, but need to close for now and take care of some other things around the house. The next post will be about the books I finish reading, yoga, and hopefully the beginning of my master cleanse. Maybe I'll write sooner and post some recipes, we'll see. Until then, have a blessed fill week!
Peace!
- Debbie :)
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Super-Charged Smoothies
Well, it’s been just shy of 4 weeks since I released my very first eBook, “Raw-Riffic Food’s 101 Super-Charged Juices, Shakes & Smoothies”. I have felt very good and accomplished by my efforts. Now the challenge is learning how to spread the word in order to make it profitable as well. It’s very educational I must say. I would love to print the book, since it is so colorful, but that will take time and dollars before I can do so. In the mean time I’m learning all about Internet Marketing in the little spare time I have. It’s fun though! I always love learning new things and taking on new challenges. Part of my transition to raw is to also transition my whole persona, including career goals, family goals, and so forth. My transition to raw has definitely been leading me on that path – and I’m glad!
As I learn more about proper eating, high raw diets, lifestyle changes, and all that comes with this way of life, I plan to share more information and create more artistic, inspirational, and informational opportunities through books, products and the like. But for now I need to take one step at a time…lol. So, I’ll start with my new eBook, and my website, Raw-Riffic Food.
In case you want to know more about my book, Here's a sample, hope you enjoy it! (Just select the "sample" link.
If you liked what you saw so far, you can purchase a copy from my site, or from my blog (side bar ad), or through LuLu Publishing.
Thank you for your support. I’ll write more later – I need to get ready for work now! Have a fabulous day everyone!
Peace!
- Debbie
As I learn more about proper eating, high raw diets, lifestyle changes, and all that comes with this way of life, I plan to share more information and create more artistic, inspirational, and informational opportunities through books, products and the like. But for now I need to take one step at a time…lol. So, I’ll start with my new eBook, and my website, Raw-Riffic Food.
In case you want to know more about my book, Here's a sample, hope you enjoy it! (Just select the "sample" link.
If you liked what you saw so far, you can purchase a copy from my site, or from my blog (side bar ad), or through LuLu Publishing.
Thank you for your support. I’ll write more later – I need to get ready for work now! Have a fabulous day everyone!
Peace!
- Debbie
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Raw-Riffic happenings...
A Spook-less Halloween
This is the first year that we didn't celebrate Halloween, by decorating and passing out candy. It was a weird feeling, but also a relief. My son left for California with his marching band to compete in a marching band tournament, and they were going to hang out at Disneyland on Halloween night. So, being that it was just my husband and me, and most of the kids on our block have either moved or grown, up I wasn't into doing anything this year. Plus I've been so busy with work, volunteering for marching band boosters, and working on my various projects, I just haven’t had time to plan anything special. Maybe next year! I hope everyone else out there had a fabulous time! Did you hand out candy, or raw treats? Hopefully raw treats, or something close…LOL! Speaking of that, I saw some really clever raw Halloween treat ideas! Very cool!
EFT and The Laws of Attraction
So recently I picked up some self-realization and motivational books recommended by Philip McClusky. One of them is The Secret, written by Rhonda Byrne. It’s mainly about the “laws of attraction”. I have to say, it all makes great sense, and I can truly identify with it. I realize that I have fallen off the path of spiritual insight, and positive thinking and have been trying to get back on the path for several years now. I know that’s why I’ve been feeling out of balance. However, it's obvious to me that I am slowly getting back on track, because here I am surrounding myself with positive influences, and making strong efforts to change my life, and feel better and stronger about my path.
Another very cool thing that was recently introduced to me is the power of EFT. EFT is Emotional Freedom Techniques. My friend and co-worker actually told me about this first. So then I looked it up on the internet (love the internet), and discovered the site, www.tryitoneverything.com. I signed up for their newsletter, and got a free downloadable eBook, entitled “15 Ways To Health, Happiness and Abundance”. It’s a great book! It talks about EFT, and EFT in combination with the Laws of Attraction, and so many other inspiring and healing concepts using this whole method of EFT. You should check it out.
Super-Sweet, Sproutein Green Smoothie
Here’s a great way to get your greens, and enjoy the latest raw protein product, Sproutein: Perfect Protein Superfood. Sproutein is packed with nutrition, blends well, and is delicious too!
1 scoop Sproutein
1 scoop Hemp
Protein Powder
1 scoop MSM granules
1 scoop Amazing Grass Green Superfood Powder
1 ½ cups frozen organic mango chunks
½ cups frozen organic dark cherries
2-3 handfuls organic baby spinach
1 tsp. raw honey
1 dropper full peppermint flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
1 banana
purified water and ice to cover
Place all ingredients in the blender except for the ice. Blend well on high, slowly adding the ice (enough ice to chill the blender). Makes 2-3 tall glass servings.
Raw-Riffic Smoothie Recipe:
Creamy Cherry Delight
1 apple (skin peeled)
1 pear (skin peeled – recommend Bosch pear)
2 small bananas
1 ½ to 2 cups dark cherries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup raw nut mylk (recommend almond or brazil nut)
2 handfuls spinach
1 dropper peppermint flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
Purified water and ice to cover
Place all ingredients in the blender except for the ice. Blend well on high, slowly adding the ice (enough ice to chill the blender). Makes 2-3 tall glass servings.
This recipe was taken from my recently released raw recipe eBook, "Raw-Riffic Food's 101 Super-Charged Juices, Shakes & Smoothies". This book is packed with great information, resources and tips; and of course, 101 colorful, nutritious, and delicious raw recipes to make and drink! So check it out!
Well, that's it for tonight! I'll try to write again real soon!
Peace!
:)
- Debbie
This is the first year that we didn't celebrate Halloween, by decorating and passing out candy. It was a weird feeling, but also a relief. My son left for California with his marching band to compete in a marching band tournament, and they were going to hang out at Disneyland on Halloween night. So, being that it was just my husband and me, and most of the kids on our block have either moved or grown, up I wasn't into doing anything this year. Plus I've been so busy with work, volunteering for marching band boosters, and working on my various projects, I just haven’t had time to plan anything special. Maybe next year! I hope everyone else out there had a fabulous time! Did you hand out candy, or raw treats? Hopefully raw treats, or something close…LOL! Speaking of that, I saw some really clever raw Halloween treat ideas! Very cool!
EFT and The Laws of Attraction
So recently I picked up some self-realization and motivational books recommended by Philip McClusky. One of them is The Secret
, written by Rhonda Byrne. It’s mainly about the “laws of attraction”. I have to say, it all makes great sense, and I can truly identify with it. I realize that I have fallen off the path of spiritual insight, and positive thinking and have been trying to get back on the path for several years now. I know that’s why I’ve been feeling out of balance. However, it's obvious to me that I am slowly getting back on track, because here I am surrounding myself with positive influences, and making strong efforts to change my life, and feel better and stronger about my path.Another very cool thing that was recently introduced to me is the power of EFT. EFT is Emotional Freedom Techniques. My friend and co-worker actually told me about this first. So then I looked it up on the internet (love the internet), and discovered the site, www.tryitoneverything.com. I signed up for their newsletter, and got a free downloadable eBook, entitled “15 Ways To Health, Happiness and Abundance”. It’s a great book! It talks about EFT, and EFT in combination with the Laws of Attraction, and so many other inspiring and healing concepts using this whole method of EFT. You should check it out.
Super-Sweet, Sproutein Green Smoothie
Here’s a great way to get your greens, and enjoy the latest raw protein product, Sproutein: Perfect Protein Superfood. Sproutein is packed with nutrition, blends well, and is delicious too!
1 scoop Sproutein
1 scoop Hemp
Protein Powder
1 scoop MSM granules
1 scoop Amazing Grass Green Superfood Powder
1 ½ cups frozen organic mango chunks
½ cups frozen organic dark cherries
2-3 handfuls organic baby spinach
1 tsp. raw honey
1 dropper full peppermint flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
1 banana
purified water and ice to cover
Place all ingredients in the blender except for the ice. Blend well on high, slowly adding the ice (enough ice to chill the blender). Makes 2-3 tall glass servings.
Raw-Riffic Smoothie Recipe:
Creamy Cherry Delight
1 apple (skin peeled)
1 pear (skin peeled – recommend Bosch pear)
2 small bananas
1 ½ to 2 cups dark cherries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup raw nut mylk (recommend almond or brazil nut)
2 handfuls spinach
1 dropper peppermint flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
Purified water and ice to cover
Place all ingredients in the blender except for the ice. Blend well on high, slowly adding the ice (enough ice to chill the blender). Makes 2-3 tall glass servings.
This recipe was taken from my recently released raw recipe eBook, "Raw-Riffic Food's 101 Super-Charged Juices, Shakes & Smoothies". This book is packed with great information, resources and tips; and of course, 101 colorful, nutritious, and delicious raw recipes to make and drink! So check it out!
Well, that's it for tonight! I'll try to write again real soon!
Peace!
:)
- Debbie
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Once again, it's been a while
I realize it’s been a long while again since I blogged. All I can say is the usual, “I’ve been super busy with this and that!” And I have! I just feel silly using the same excuse over and over again. Anyway, to get started, I thought I’d share a couple of things with you. First off, on August 14th, I celebrated my one year anniversary of changing to a high raw food diet! Yippee! Secondly, I’m proud to say, that since I joined the Raw Fu 100-day Raw Fu Challenge, I have been consistently 95-98.9% raw the entire 30 days so far…with only one day of falling off the wagon (back in the beginning). I paid dearly for that day with major stomach sickness…I’ve been too scared to screw up again (lol)!
Seriously though, when your body finally adapts to a new way of living, it’s very hard on it to change back. And truthfully, when you see how you feel and glow, why would you want to go back. Memories are great…but you can make new memories with this new way of living and being.
Plus over the past few months my family has been enjoying more and more drinking green smoothies with me on a daily basis, and eating healthier all the time. It’s fabulous!
I’ve kept up with the exercise and yoga, even with my super busy schedule. I really love yoga; I think it’s truly making a difference for me. Even with my chronic back issues, I feel better and better, and I haven’t had to have any pain meds. In fact, I’ve only had about 2 pain meds over the past 2-3 months. Again, to me, it’s a miracle. Those times when I feel physically hurt by my back, I’m able to work through with a lot more ease, and no “drugs.” It’s major, I mean really major for me! I’m a completely different person than I was a couple of years ago. The other great thing is I have more energy, and drive then I have had in a long time. I’ve always been a peppy person, but I was becoming sluggish…Now I feel younger than I did a few years ago. I feel “high” sometimes, but I don’t need alcohol or food stimulants to make me feel that way. I know it’s the green juice!!! I mean it!
Green Juices and Green Smoothies is where it’s at! If you want to feel great, if you want to feel charged, if you want to feel euphoric, you need to DRINK YOUR GREENS!!! Even my husband and son have noticed a considerable change in their own health since they have been drinking their daily greens! My husband’s favorite green smoothie tastes like a malt to him. The smoothie consists of spinach, dark cherries, mango, hemp seeds, Green SuperFood powder (or you could use Chlorella or Spirulina), a little dried coconut, bee pollen, raw protein powder, Goji berries, banana, peppermint flavored liquid SweetLeaf Stevia, water and ice. Sometimes we add kale or parsley to it too. The darker the greens and the more cherries, the yummier!!! He loves it! My favorite is still the simple green romaine or spinach, with parsley and mango…Sometimes I’ll throw in a banana too to make it thicker!
I’m still creating recipes here and there, and experimenting with existing ones. I also have been reading quite a bit…several books at one time as always. Someday soon (when I have more time) I’ll write some more reviews on the books I’ve been reading. Well, I just thought I’d check in and say “Hi” to everyone, and let you know I’m still around. I recommend that you check out the Raw Fu site if you haven’t already, also visit Raw Food Right Now – lots of great new things happening over there! And, drop a line sometime.
Before I go, here are a couple of recipes I wanted to share with you. Enjoy!
My Miso Soup:
Base:
hemp seeds, miso paste, raw almond mylk, Nama Shoyu, ginger, sea salt, cayenne, chili pepper flakes, cold pressed sesame oil, purified water.
Add-ins:
Mushrooms, spinach, red bell pepper, raw corn kernels, green onions, minced garlic, parsley, and dulse flakes
...it was very yummy! I think you could even add slices of avocado if you wanted.
Portobello Sandwich:
Relish: raw corn kernels from one cob, 1/2 a red bell pepper finely chopped, 1/2 a zucchini finely chopped, and 1 avocado peeled, stoned and finely chopped. (Blended all the ingredients, and added a touch of sea salt, and garlic powder)
Prepare Portobello by scraping and washing it clean, and then add to the dehydrator for about 1 hour - it's still firm, but a little tenderer.
Spread your favorite raw nut cheese over the Romaine lettuce leaves. I used Sunflower nut cheese. Add the mushroom and then a good heaping serving of the relish. Top with slices of tomato, topped with another romaine lettuce leaf with nut spread too.
Very yummy! Enjoy!
Here are some other goodies I’ve “uncooked” up lately! What do you think?
Till next time…keep it raw, and have fun! Peace!
- Debbie
Seriously though, when your body finally adapts to a new way of living, it’s very hard on it to change back. And truthfully, when you see how you feel and glow, why would you want to go back. Memories are great…but you can make new memories with this new way of living and being.
Plus over the past few months my family has been enjoying more and more drinking green smoothies with me on a daily basis, and eating healthier all the time. It’s fabulous!
I’ve kept up with the exercise and yoga, even with my super busy schedule. I really love yoga; I think it’s truly making a difference for me. Even with my chronic back issues, I feel better and better, and I haven’t had to have any pain meds. In fact, I’ve only had about 2 pain meds over the past 2-3 months. Again, to me, it’s a miracle. Those times when I feel physically hurt by my back, I’m able to work through with a lot more ease, and no “drugs.” It’s major, I mean really major for me! I’m a completely different person than I was a couple of years ago. The other great thing is I have more energy, and drive then I have had in a long time. I’ve always been a peppy person, but I was becoming sluggish…Now I feel younger than I did a few years ago. I feel “high” sometimes, but I don’t need alcohol or food stimulants to make me feel that way. I know it’s the green juice!!! I mean it!
Green Juices and Green Smoothies is where it’s at! If you want to feel great, if you want to feel charged, if you want to feel euphoric, you need to DRINK YOUR GREENS!!! Even my husband and son have noticed a considerable change in their own health since they have been drinking their daily greens! My husband’s favorite green smoothie tastes like a malt to him. The smoothie consists of spinach, dark cherries, mango, hemp seeds, Green SuperFood powder (or you could use Chlorella or Spirulina), a little dried coconut, bee pollen, raw protein powder, Goji berries, banana, peppermint flavored liquid SweetLeaf Stevia, water and ice. Sometimes we add kale or parsley to it too. The darker the greens and the more cherries, the yummier!!! He loves it! My favorite is still the simple green romaine or spinach, with parsley and mango…Sometimes I’ll throw in a banana too to make it thicker!
I’m still creating recipes here and there, and experimenting with existing ones. I also have been reading quite a bit…several books at one time as always. Someday soon (when I have more time) I’ll write some more reviews on the books I’ve been reading. Well, I just thought I’d check in and say “Hi” to everyone, and let you know I’m still around. I recommend that you check out the Raw Fu site if you haven’t already, also visit Raw Food Right Now – lots of great new things happening over there! And, drop a line sometime.
Before I go, here are a couple of recipes I wanted to share with you. Enjoy!
My Miso Soup:
Base:
hemp seeds, miso paste, raw almond mylk, Nama Shoyu, ginger, sea salt, cayenne, chili pepper flakes, cold pressed sesame oil, purified water.
Add-ins:
Mushrooms, spinach, red bell pepper, raw corn kernels, green onions, minced garlic, parsley, and dulse flakes
...it was very yummy! I think you could even add slices of avocado if you wanted.
Portobello Sandwich:
Relish: raw corn kernels from one cob, 1/2 a red bell pepper finely chopped, 1/2 a zucchini finely chopped, and 1 avocado peeled, stoned and finely chopped. (Blended all the ingredients, and added a touch of sea salt, and garlic powder)
Prepare Portobello by scraping and washing it clean, and then add to the dehydrator for about 1 hour - it's still firm, but a little tenderer.
Spread your favorite raw nut cheese over the Romaine lettuce leaves. I used Sunflower nut cheese. Add the mushroom and then a good heaping serving of the relish. Top with slices of tomato, topped with another romaine lettuce leaf with nut spread too.
Very yummy! Enjoy!
Here are some other goodies I’ve “uncooked” up lately! What do you think?
Till next time…keep it raw, and have fun! Peace!
- Debbie
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Day 3, my 100-day Raw Fu Challenge...
Well, today marks the 3rd day of the 100-day raw food challenge through Raw Fu, hosted by a very special lady, "Bunny" Betsy Berry. For the most part I have been doing very well to keep it 98-100% raw all three days. The only set back I have had is that I have been suffering from a lot of detox issues.
It actually started on Friday evening, so I'm not sure if it's related to anything specific -- but possibly it could be I have caught a bug...or it could be nerves, or bad food combining. I honestly don't know. Anyway, Friday I suffered from great stomach pains, constipation, indigestion, and bloating. I still went ahead and rode the recumbent bike, and did some yoga. I should not have had anything else to eat, but I went ahead and had my usual evening green smoothie. That added more physical grief. And to make matters worse, my chronic back and joint pains were giving me a hard time as well. But I refused to take any pain meds, since I was suffering from such digestive issues. I decided to drink some detox tea, and a wedge of lemon, and later went to bed. All night I tossed and turned, moaning, and so forth.
When I woke up Saturday morning I was still in pain, urinating frequently, but no real bowel movements. This is frustrating to me, since I had finally conquered these issues upon changing to a raw lifestyle. I could barely move too. My joints were terribly sore, and my overall feeling of well being was lost. I felt like I had the flu, but without any cold symptoms. It was awful. I couldn't eat anything, nor drink anything. Even water triggered more bloating and discomfort. I could barely get around, but I went ahead and did our shopping, and took care of my usual Saturday errands. When I went to pick my son up from Band Camp, I was still feeling bad. It was sad, cause his return came across anti climatic - which was not all the case. But he understood. I did manage to have 2 smoothies on Saturday. Both were made with just mango and spinach. I also managed to have two bananas, and water. Still no real bowel movements. I went to bed earlier than I usually do for a Saturday and slept in till late this morning.
Today I feel much better, and had much more energy. I made the usual breakfast smoothie, and had a couple of chia crackers. Then for a late lunch I had a green smoothie, and a couple of celery sticks with raw almond butter and a touch of honey. Plus plenty of water. All was well, and joint pain was barely noticeable -- except for the back (still not as bad). Only problem is, by the this evening as I write to you now, I'm feeling a bit bloated again. Still no bowel movements to speak of. So, I just had a cup of detox/smooth move tea. I'm hoping that helps me feel much better tomorrow. Normally it does.
I'm beginning to think that my IBS, and spastic colon are inflamed due to the amount of stress I have been under lately. It must be that, cause I really don't think I'm doing anything different with my food. Well, one thing is for sure, during this 100-day challenge I'm starting off cleaner than ever, so it may be a blessing in disguise. So for now, I'll just deal with the detoxing issues, and hope that the stomach gets free soon! I'll write more later.
Have a fabulous evening, and a terrific day tomorrow, and a blessed week!
Peace! - Debbie
It actually started on Friday evening, so I'm not sure if it's related to anything specific -- but possibly it could be I have caught a bug...or it could be nerves, or bad food combining. I honestly don't know. Anyway, Friday I suffered from great stomach pains, constipation, indigestion, and bloating. I still went ahead and rode the recumbent bike, and did some yoga. I should not have had anything else to eat, but I went ahead and had my usual evening green smoothie. That added more physical grief. And to make matters worse, my chronic back and joint pains were giving me a hard time as well. But I refused to take any pain meds, since I was suffering from such digestive issues. I decided to drink some detox tea, and a wedge of lemon, and later went to bed. All night I tossed and turned, moaning, and so forth.
When I woke up Saturday morning I was still in pain, urinating frequently, but no real bowel movements. This is frustrating to me, since I had finally conquered these issues upon changing to a raw lifestyle. I could barely move too. My joints were terribly sore, and my overall feeling of well being was lost. I felt like I had the flu, but without any cold symptoms. It was awful. I couldn't eat anything, nor drink anything. Even water triggered more bloating and discomfort. I could barely get around, but I went ahead and did our shopping, and took care of my usual Saturday errands. When I went to pick my son up from Band Camp, I was still feeling bad. It was sad, cause his return came across anti climatic - which was not all the case. But he understood. I did manage to have 2 smoothies on Saturday. Both were made with just mango and spinach. I also managed to have two bananas, and water. Still no real bowel movements. I went to bed earlier than I usually do for a Saturday and slept in till late this morning.
Today I feel much better, and had much more energy. I made the usual breakfast smoothie, and had a couple of chia crackers. Then for a late lunch I had a green smoothie, and a couple of celery sticks with raw almond butter and a touch of honey. Plus plenty of water. All was well, and joint pain was barely noticeable -- except for the back (still not as bad). Only problem is, by the this evening as I write to you now, I'm feeling a bit bloated again. Still no bowel movements to speak of. So, I just had a cup of detox/smooth move tea. I'm hoping that helps me feel much better tomorrow. Normally it does.
I'm beginning to think that my IBS, and spastic colon are inflamed due to the amount of stress I have been under lately. It must be that, cause I really don't think I'm doing anything different with my food. Well, one thing is for sure, during this 100-day challenge I'm starting off cleaner than ever, so it may be a blessing in disguise. So for now, I'll just deal with the detoxing issues, and hope that the stomach gets free soon! I'll write more later.
Have a fabulous evening, and a terrific day tomorrow, and a blessed week!
Peace! - Debbie
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Raw Fu, and Super Foods...(just a quick update)
It's been a couple of weeks since I last blogged. A lot has been going on with me. I've gotten so busy, that I run out of time every night to do all the things I want to do...like blog...
So here I am. I recently joined another great raw food community - "Raw Fu." This community was created and hosted by a wonderful new face to the raw food community, Betsy "Bunny". We are getting ready to start a 100-day raw food challenge, and I can't wait. I really like the group that participates in this community. They are just so warm, fun, and supportive...it's great! There are a lot of familiar faces here too, so it's great that we can all be a part of Raw Fu too!
I've been doing quite a bit of reading, researching, smoothie making, and recipe trying and tasting. Plus, exercising, getting my son ready for the new school year - but first band camp; and working, working, working...I'm really getting into yoga. It's been a lot of fun so far, and hard work - but I just feel great afterwards! I mean that! I've made it to 5 classes now...and looking forward to participating in plenty more classes...well, that will take time...lol...
I just finished reading Kate "Magic" Wood's Raw Magic
. That was a very informative, and great fun book to read! Now I'm trying out some of the recipes, as well as making up my own based on what I've learned from her book. Kate is really into Super Foods, and super magic - so the food is out of site! My kind of raw creative!
I also am finishing up Victoria Boutenko's 12 Steps to Raw Foods: How to End Your Dependency on Cooked Food
. Excellent book - really excellent! I recommend every raw beginner read this book, and any raw fooder who hasn't read it yet - do so! It is phenomenal. I have absorbed so much information, and just things that really hit home about diet, food, health, and so on. It's great!
I've been eating a lot of "super foods" lately, and experimenting with them in recipes. Kate's book really has inspired me to do so. I have to say, whether or not you agree with me, I can definitely tell the difference when I add the super foods to my recipes. It really supplements my food. I feel so energized and good! Here's a smoothie recipe I made, that includes several super foods. Hope you like it!
Green Mouth Super Smoothie
2 handfuls spinach
1 handful baby romaine lettuce
2 peaches
1 banana
1 ½ cup frozen organic mango chunks
2 scoops hemp seeds
2 scoops MSM crystals
2 scoops Green Super Food powder
1 T Green Blue Lake Algae powder
1 T chlorella powder
1 T vanilla powder
1 tsp. psyllium husk
1 tsp. lecithin granules
1 tsp bee pollen
2 handfuls goji berries
1 handful raw cacao nibs
1 spoonful maca powder
1 spoonful camu camu powder
1 spoonful suma powder
10oz coconut water
1 dropper SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia clear
Purified water and ice to cover
Just place it all in a blender, and mix on high till nice and smooth and frothy! The colder the better! It's very yummo!
Well, that's all I have for now. I actually have more to write about, but need more time. So hopefully the next time I blog I will take the time to tell you more...lol! Keep it raw!
- Peace! :)
- Debbie
So here I am. I recently joined another great raw food community - "Raw Fu." This community was created and hosted by a wonderful new face to the raw food community, Betsy "Bunny". We are getting ready to start a 100-day raw food challenge, and I can't wait. I really like the group that participates in this community. They are just so warm, fun, and supportive...it's great! There are a lot of familiar faces here too, so it's great that we can all be a part of Raw Fu too!
I've been doing quite a bit of reading, researching, smoothie making, and recipe trying and tasting. Plus, exercising, getting my son ready for the new school year - but first band camp; and working, working, working...I'm really getting into yoga. It's been a lot of fun so far, and hard work - but I just feel great afterwards! I mean that! I've made it to 5 classes now...and looking forward to participating in plenty more classes...well, that will take time...lol...
I just finished reading Kate "Magic" Wood's Raw Magic
. That was a very informative, and great fun book to read! Now I'm trying out some of the recipes, as well as making up my own based on what I've learned from her book. Kate is really into Super Foods, and super magic - so the food is out of site! My kind of raw creative!
I also am finishing up Victoria Boutenko's 12 Steps to Raw Foods: How to End Your Dependency on Cooked Food
. Excellent book - really excellent! I recommend every raw beginner read this book, and any raw fooder who hasn't read it yet - do so! It is phenomenal. I have absorbed so much information, and just things that really hit home about diet, food, health, and so on. It's great!I've been eating a lot of "super foods" lately, and experimenting with them in recipes. Kate's book really has inspired me to do so. I have to say, whether or not you agree with me, I can definitely tell the difference when I add the super foods to my recipes. It really supplements my food. I feel so energized and good! Here's a smoothie recipe I made, that includes several super foods. Hope you like it!
Green Mouth Super Smoothie
2 handfuls spinach
1 handful baby romaine lettuce
2 peaches
1 banana
1 ½ cup frozen organic mango chunks
2 scoops hemp seeds
2 scoops MSM crystals
2 scoops Green Super Food powder
1 T Green Blue Lake Algae powder
1 T chlorella powder
1 T vanilla powder
1 tsp. psyllium husk
1 tsp. lecithin granules
1 tsp bee pollen
2 handfuls goji berries
1 handful raw cacao nibs
1 spoonful maca powder
1 spoonful camu camu powder
1 spoonful suma powder
10oz coconut water
1 dropper SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia clear
Purified water and ice to cover
Just place it all in a blender, and mix on high till nice and smooth and frothy! The colder the better! It's very yummo!
Well, that's all I have for now. I actually have more to write about, but need more time. So hopefully the next time I blog I will take the time to tell you more...lol! Keep it raw!
- Peace! :)
- Debbie
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Great weekend so far!
Well, I’m so pleased right now. I have had an absolute fabulous and fun raw day today so far. I attended my very first raw food class today. It was Kristine Suzanne’s Raw Chocolate Class, held at Whole Foods, in Scottsdale, AZ, and it was absolutely great! I met some very nice people there, and enjoyed a great class.
We learned how to make about 11 recipes, plus an additional bonus recipe all to take home. And the sampling was absolutely out of this freaken’ world! I mean, the raw chocolate recipes really RAWKED!!! My mouth was watering so much, I wanted more, more, more…in fact, I couldn’t wait to get home and start making one of the recipes – that I started just now. I’m making the "Chocolate Chia Crackers". I would love to share the recipe she gave us, but you’ll have to wait for her special E-book coming out real soon! Believe me, the chocolate recipes are well worth it, so stay tuned, and check Kristine’s blog from time to time, so you can get your copy of the E-book, other recipes from her site, and all the great raw tips and tricks she has to offer. And if you ever get the chance, definitely take at least one of her classes! It’s great fun! I definitely plan to do this again real soon!!!
Speaking of Kristine, her June 30, 2008 blog posting, “How To Make Raw Food EASY!” is great reference material. She always has the best tips on how to keep it raw and simple, and delicious! I printed this one out to keep as a nice reminder that when I get too busy and feel tempted to give-in to unhealthy choices, I don’t have to – no excuses!
Oh, I have to write this, just in case. One of the young ladies I met at Kristine’s class was telling me how much she liked the Lydia’s Organics crackers. I told her I didn’t much care for them, because of the few I tried. But I decided to give them another try, so I purchased the Luna Nori flavored crackers – and boy were they ever good. I take back what I said!...lol…
Just had to update you…while writing this blog, I took a break and placed my “Chocolate Chia Crackers” in the dehydrator, and then whipped up a batch of Kristine’s “Romantic Raw Chocolates” –which we also learned how to make today. Yum-yum! More to come…
More great food from the Sunny Raw Kitchen
Well, Carmella has done it again! She just published her second raw E-Book called, 'The Best of Raw Freedom Community' This book is packed with all the best recipes that Carmella and friends of the Raw Freedom Community have shared over time! I recommend you add it to your collection if you haven’t all ready!
Tried Tasted Served
There’s a great new raw blog out there in cyberspace, packed with super good raw information on raw food, "Tried Tasted Served". The pictures, layout, writing, and information is very classy, and it’s packed with resources and more…a few blogs ago I wrote about how I purchased an E-Book called ‘Chop to Impress’. A perfectly raw and simple way to eat delicious raw food, without a lot of work – very nicely done too.
This weekend is making up for a long and hectic week past…
I’m amazed I kept up with my exercise this week, since it’s been so gosh darned hectic! As you know my son and I have been going to the rec center at least 2-3 times a week. We have made it to two full yoga classes, and had a kick-ass workout in yoga this past Wednesday. Although I’ve been super busy at work, and pretty busy when I get home, and getting to bed pretty late every night, we still managed to make it to the rec center last night. And boy I’m glad we did! I didn’t have a lot of energy, cause I missed lunch at work, but I had a banana before we left and felt fine. We definitely worked up a sweat, and hit the weights hard. When we got home I made us a nice green and tropical smoothie – just the way my son wanted. Then I attempted to read my "Raw Magic"
book, but fell asleep.
During the week, I have managed to make some type of delicious and nutritious green smoothie for myself and my family every single night. This has helped my family cut back on the amount of S.A.D.food they have for dinner, and it’s been easier for me as far as prep time and cleanup! I did take some pics, but not a lot. So to close, I will share another yummy smoothie I made this week…hope you enjoy it! Till next time…
Southern Green Peach Smoothie
3 medium yellow peaches
1 medium banana
1 big handful baby romaine lettuce
1 big handful spinach
1 cup red and green grapes
1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
1 handful goji berries
1 scoop raw protein
1 scoop MSM
1 T raw honey
1 tsp bee pollen
Dash ground cinnamon
Purified water and ice cubes to cover
Place all ingredients in a blender and puree on high until smooth and creamy! Yum-yum!
Kristine is so adorable, and even cuter and bubblier in person. She does a great job with teaching the class, and making it fun and interesting! Plus, we got to meet her mom, who was definitely a special treat herself. She was great fun, helpful, and has great personality. They were truly a wonderful and beautiful Mom and Daughter pair!!!
We learned how to make about 11 recipes, plus an additional bonus recipe all to take home. And the sampling was absolutely out of this freaken’ world! I mean, the raw chocolate recipes really RAWKED!!! My mouth was watering so much, I wanted more, more, more…in fact, I couldn’t wait to get home and start making one of the recipes – that I started just now. I’m making the "Chocolate Chia Crackers". I would love to share the recipe she gave us, but you’ll have to wait for her special E-book coming out real soon! Believe me, the chocolate recipes are well worth it, so stay tuned, and check Kristine’s blog from time to time, so you can get your copy of the E-book, other recipes from her site, and all the great raw tips and tricks she has to offer. And if you ever get the chance, definitely take at least one of her classes! It’s great fun! I definitely plan to do this again real soon!!!
Speaking of Kristine, her June 30, 2008 blog posting, “How To Make Raw Food EASY!” is great reference material. She always has the best tips on how to keep it raw and simple, and delicious! I printed this one out to keep as a nice reminder that when I get too busy and feel tempted to give-in to unhealthy choices, I don’t have to – no excuses!
Oh, I have to write this, just in case. One of the young ladies I met at Kristine’s class was telling me how much she liked the Lydia’s Organics crackers. I told her I didn’t much care for them, because of the few I tried. But I decided to give them another try, so I purchased the Luna Nori flavored crackers – and boy were they ever good. I take back what I said!...lol…
Just had to update you…while writing this blog, I took a break and placed my “Chocolate Chia Crackers” in the dehydrator, and then whipped up a batch of Kristine’s “Romantic Raw Chocolates” –which we also learned how to make today. Yum-yum! More to come…
More great food from the Sunny Raw Kitchen
Well, Carmella has done it again! She just published her second raw E-Book called, 'The Best of Raw Freedom Community' This book is packed with all the best recipes that Carmella and friends of the Raw Freedom Community have shared over time! I recommend you add it to your collection if you haven’t all ready!
Tried Tasted Served
There’s a great new raw blog out there in cyberspace, packed with super good raw information on raw food, "Tried Tasted Served". The pictures, layout, writing, and information is very classy, and it’s packed with resources and more…a few blogs ago I wrote about how I purchased an E-Book called ‘Chop to Impress’. A perfectly raw and simple way to eat delicious raw food, without a lot of work – very nicely done too.
This weekend is making up for a long and hectic week past…
I’m amazed I kept up with my exercise this week, since it’s been so gosh darned hectic! As you know my son and I have been going to the rec center at least 2-3 times a week. We have made it to two full yoga classes, and had a kick-ass workout in yoga this past Wednesday. Although I’ve been super busy at work, and pretty busy when I get home, and getting to bed pretty late every night, we still managed to make it to the rec center last night. And boy I’m glad we did! I didn’t have a lot of energy, cause I missed lunch at work, but I had a banana before we left and felt fine. We definitely worked up a sweat, and hit the weights hard. When we got home I made us a nice green and tropical smoothie – just the way my son wanted. Then I attempted to read my "Raw Magic"
book, but fell asleep.During the week, I have managed to make some type of delicious and nutritious green smoothie for myself and my family every single night. This has helped my family cut back on the amount of S.A.D.food they have for dinner, and it’s been easier for me as far as prep time and cleanup! I did take some pics, but not a lot. So to close, I will share another yummy smoothie I made this week…hope you enjoy it! Till next time…
Southern Green Peach Smoothie
3 medium yellow peaches
1 medium banana
1 big handful baby romaine lettuce
1 big handful spinach
1 cup red and green grapes
1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
1 handful goji berries
1 scoop raw protein
1 scoop MSM
1 T raw honey
1 tsp bee pollen
Dash ground cinnamon
Purified water and ice cubes to cover
Place all ingredients in a blender and puree on high until smooth and creamy! Yum-yum!
Peace! :)
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Doing the body good...
My son Brad and I have made it to the Recreation Center 7 times over a two and a half week period. We have also made it to two full hours of yoga over a two week period, plus I went an additional ½ hour the first week we started. We go Monday, Wednesday, and then again on Friday. Each time we go, we walk at least 1.25 miles around the indoor track, lift weights (resistance equipment), and also complete stretches. This past Monday, we actually walked over two miles before hitting the weights. This is only because my son was a little embarrassed to go into the weight room area when people who knew from school were there. Teenagers are so funny! But hey, it was a great extra workout for us, so it was well worth it!
On Wednesday is when we take the yoga class. It’s actually a yoga fitness class, so it’s harder, and definitely gets the heart rate going. It’s a great class because we work hard, and then we cool down to such a relaxed and focused state…its wonderful! We really love it so far. I love it so far! I’m thinking about purchasing my own yoga mat, so I don’t have to keep using the rec center’s mats.
Not only have I been going to the rec center to workout, but I’ve also been riding the recumbent bike at home still. I do this on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and occasionally on the weekends too. Yesterday was the best bike ride I’ve had in weeks. I was very happy about that! Oh, I even go swimming at least once or twice on the weekends – just to keep that heart rate up, stretch those limbs, and enjoy the refreshing water, and soak up the sun! Fun, fun!
On Wednesday is when we take the yoga class. It’s actually a yoga fitness class, so it’s harder, and definitely gets the heart rate going. It’s a great class because we work hard, and then we cool down to such a relaxed and focused state…its wonderful! We really love it so far. I love it so far! I’m thinking about purchasing my own yoga mat, so I don’t have to keep using the rec center’s mats.
Not only have I been going to the rec center to workout, but I’ve also been riding the recumbent bike at home still. I do this on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and occasionally on the weekends too. Yesterday was the best bike ride I’ve had in weeks. I was very happy about that! Oh, I even go swimming at least once or twice on the weekends – just to keep that heart rate up, stretch those limbs, and enjoy the refreshing water, and soak up the sun! Fun, fun!
I feel like I've really been doing the body good! :)
I’ve been using the heck out of my new juicer, and loving every minute of it. I’ll make yummy juices, and then turn them into yummy smoothies! Very cool! I haven’t done much dehydrating, except for some spicy corn chips and creamy spicy ice cream that has already been gobbled up by my family and me. But for the most part I’ve been spending most of my time working, exercising, making juices and smoothies, and reading my raw books. I’m really hooked on “Raw Magic” by Kate “Magic” Wood. This book is so cool! I can’t even describe it in words. The first part of the book digs deep into super foods and all that it is…I actually purchased several recommended items because of this book. I’ve gotten my purple corn extract, now I’m waiting for some other “oddities” that are very good for you. I plan to make her recipe for Cake Mates. It looks absolutely devine!
There are lots of original and creative, and delicious recipes in the book too! But right now I’m stuck on the information part of it first. Kate provides web links to resources for a lot of the things she writes about in her book. So I research them as I read along. It’s actually a great marketing tool…lol…Another great feature about Raw Magic is the wonderful layout of the book, the shiny smooth pages and cover, and the terrifically cool photos that are in the book. I believe Shazzie, of “Naked Chocolate: The Astonishing Truth About the World's Greatest Food
” fame, is the one that took the pictures. It really is a cool book! This is the one I purchased online directly from Kate’s website in the UK, and had her sign it. She’s a celebrity in my eyes!
I consider many of the raw foodies in cyberspace, “raw celebrities!” In fact, this weekend I’ll be seeing another one, right here in Arizona – “Kristine Suzanne”, I can’t wait! This Saturday, July 12th, will be the first raw food preparation class I have ever taken, and it’s with Kristine Suzanne. She is teaching a raw chocolate class at Whole Foods. I know it’s going to be great!
Well, it’s getting late, and I really need to get ready for bed. So, I’ll close with a simple yet yummy smoothie. Here it is:
Papaya-Mango Green Smoothie:
I’ve been using the heck out of my new juicer, and loving every minute of it. I’ll make yummy juices, and then turn them into yummy smoothies! Very cool! I haven’t done much dehydrating, except for some spicy corn chips and creamy spicy ice cream that has already been gobbled up by my family and me. But for the most part I’ve been spending most of my time working, exercising, making juices and smoothies, and reading my raw books. I’m really hooked on “Raw Magic
” by Kate “Magic” Wood. This book is so cool! I can’t even describe it in words. The first part of the book digs deep into super foods and all that it is…I actually purchased several recommended items because of this book. I’ve gotten my purple corn extract, now I’m waiting for some other “oddities” that are very good for you. I plan to make her recipe for Cake Mates. It looks absolutely devine!There are lots of original and creative, and delicious recipes in the book too! But right now I’m stuck on the information part of it first. Kate provides web links to resources for a lot of the things she writes about in her book. So I research them as I read along. It’s actually a great marketing tool…lol…Another great feature about Raw Magic is the wonderful layout of the book, the shiny smooth pages and cover, and the terrifically cool photos that are in the book. I believe Shazzie, of “Naked Chocolate: The Astonishing Truth About the World's Greatest Food
” fame, is the one that took the pictures. It really is a cool book! This is the one I purchased online directly from Kate’s website in the UK, and had her sign it. She’s a celebrity in my eyes!I consider many of the raw foodies in cyberspace, “raw celebrities!” In fact, this weekend I’ll be seeing another one, right here in Arizona – “Kristine Suzanne”, I can’t wait! This Saturday, July 12th, will be the first raw food preparation class I have ever taken, and it’s with Kristine Suzanne. She is teaching a raw chocolate class at Whole Foods. I know it’s going to be great!
Well, it’s getting late, and I really need to get ready for bed. So, I’ll close with a simple yet yummy smoothie. Here it is:
Papaya-Mango Green Smoothie:
1 medium papaya
1 fresh mango
1 cup frozen organic mango chunks
2 big handfuls spinach
1 handful parsley
Coconut water and ice to cover
Place all ingredients in the blender, and puree until smooth and creamy. This smoothie is easy, filling, and very refreshing!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
This week’s blog
Well, I’ve been enjoying my new collection of raw books. I try to read a few pages in each one. Some of the books truly grab my attention with the information they have to offer. While others are just beautiful to look at, with all the fabulous and delicious looking recipes – I can’t wait to try them!
My son Brad and I did make it to the Recreation Center three times over the week. We went Monday, Wednesday, and then again on Friday. We had planned to go today, but were actually a little tired from staying up late last night. Each time we went we walked at least 1.25 miles around the track, lifted weights (resistance equipment), and also completed stretches. On Wednesday I took my first yoga class. It was yoga fitness – and it was hard. I was able to hang in there for the first half hour, but then had to stop. My back started to hurt, so that’s a sign I’m over doing it. However, I did go and do stretches, and walk a bit more around the track, since I couldn’t finish the class.
Not only did I work out with my son those three days, I also rode the recumbent bike at home on Tuesday and Thursday, and then again on Friday after we returned home from the Rec Center. That’s a lot for me too. I even went swimming for a bit yesterday. I had planned to go today, but I have been busy writing and researching. Who knows, maybe I’ll go later in the afternoon…we’ll see.
I finally got paid for the art job I did a couple of months ago – perfect timing too! I need it to pay for my son’s marching band camp and uniform this month. School is just around the corner again! Boy does time ever go so fast! Anyway, I used some of the money to purchase my new juicer. I decided on Jack LaLanne's JFPJ-B Power Juicer Juicing Machine
. It’s great! Now I can start planning to do a “juice feast”…I hope. I’m still trying to psyche myself out to do it. I don’t know what’s really holding me back. I practically do nothing but drink my meals anyway on a daily basis.
I have to tell you, I’ve been a little discouraged this week. Even though I don’t feel or look like I have – I have gained back at least 5 of my lost pounds. I’m so bummed. I can’t help but think it’s caused from the few cheats I have succumbed to over the past couple of months. Even though I don’t cave-in regularly – I must do so enough to warrant the weight gain. I really need to watch myself. Then I think that maybe it’s from working out more lately or from hormones lately. Regardless, I need to watch myself. I also know I have been eating a few more raw bars than usual. I need to cut back on that too. That’s a lot of nuts and good fats...I may have to start my daily raw food journal again to keep better track of my eating behaviors.
I can’t wait for July 12th. I’m taking my first raw food preparation class. I have signed up for Kristine Suzanne’s raw chocolate class at Whole Foods. I know it’s going to be a blast! Plus Kristine is a very warm and personable individual. I can’t wait to meet her in person!
Although I’m not posting a smoothie recipe today, I am posting a very simple, colorful, and flavorful juice recipe that I made in my new juicer; and, I’m posting a yummy mocha dessert. So enjoy!
Orange, Carrot, Ginger Juice:
4-5 large oranges (peeled and cut)
3-4 medium carrots (tailed and leaves removed)
1 inch knob of fresh ginger
Place all ingredients in the juicer, and juice away! This juice is very colorful, and refreshing. Try it over ice, or in a smoothie, or at juicer temperature…it’s all good!
My son Brad and I did make it to the Recreation Center three times over the week. We went Monday, Wednesday, and then again on Friday. We had planned to go today, but were actually a little tired from staying up late last night. Each time we went we walked at least 1.25 miles around the track, lifted weights (resistance equipment), and also completed stretches. On Wednesday I took my first yoga class. It was yoga fitness – and it was hard. I was able to hang in there for the first half hour, but then had to stop. My back started to hurt, so that’s a sign I’m over doing it. However, I did go and do stretches, and walk a bit more around the track, since I couldn’t finish the class.
Not only did I work out with my son those three days, I also rode the recumbent bike at home on Tuesday and Thursday, and then again on Friday after we returned home from the Rec Center. That’s a lot for me too. I even went swimming for a bit yesterday. I had planned to go today, but I have been busy writing and researching. Who knows, maybe I’ll go later in the afternoon…we’ll see.
I finally got paid for the art job I did a couple of months ago – perfect timing too! I need it to pay for my son’s marching band camp and uniform this month. School is just around the corner again! Boy does time ever go so fast! Anyway, I used some of the money to purchase my new juicer. I decided on Jack LaLanne's JFPJ-B Power Juicer Juicing Machine
. It’s great! Now I can start planning to do a “juice feast”…I hope. I’m still trying to psyche myself out to do it. I don’t know what’s really holding me back. I practically do nothing but drink my meals anyway on a daily basis.I have to tell you, I’ve been a little discouraged this week. Even though I don’t feel or look like I have – I have gained back at least 5 of my lost pounds. I’m so bummed. I can’t help but think it’s caused from the few cheats I have succumbed to over the past couple of months. Even though I don’t cave-in regularly – I must do so enough to warrant the weight gain. I really need to watch myself. Then I think that maybe it’s from working out more lately or from hormones lately. Regardless, I need to watch myself. I also know I have been eating a few more raw bars than usual. I need to cut back on that too. That’s a lot of nuts and good fats...I may have to start my daily raw food journal again to keep better track of my eating behaviors.
I can’t wait for July 12th. I’m taking my first raw food preparation class. I have signed up for Kristine Suzanne’s raw chocolate class at Whole Foods. I know it’s going to be a blast! Plus Kristine is a very warm and personable individual. I can’t wait to meet her in person!
Although I’m not posting a smoothie recipe today, I am posting a very simple, colorful, and flavorful juice recipe that I made in my new juicer; and, I’m posting a yummy mocha dessert. So enjoy!
Orange, Carrot, Ginger Juice:
4-5 large oranges (peeled and cut)
3-4 medium carrots (tailed and leaves removed)
1 inch knob of fresh ginger
Place all ingredients in the juicer, and juice away! This juice is very colorful, and refreshing. Try it over ice, or in a smoothie, or at juicer temperature…it’s all good!
Cacao-Nut Cupcakes with Mocha-Coco Pudding Topping:
For cupcakes:
2 cups raw almonds
1 ½ cups pitted dates
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ - ½ cup organic dried coconut flakes
1 scoop raw cacao powder (approximately 2-3 T)
Combine all ingredients in a food processor until combine. Press mixture into cupcake molds. Refrigerate up to one hour before serving with topping.
For pudding topping:
Flesh from 2 young Thai coconuts
2 scoops cacao powder (approximately 4-5 T)
1 scoop mesquite powder (approximately 2-3 T)
1 scoop lucuma powder (approximately 2-3 T)
3 T agave nectar
1 dropper chocolate flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
2 tsp organic coffee extract
1 T cold pressed coconut oil
dash organic ground cinnamon
¼ - ½ cup or more fresh Thai coconut water
Combine all ingredients in a blender. Mix well until silky smooth. Serve as pudding or topping on a raw cupcake, such as the Cacao-Nut Cupcake. Very yummo!
For cupcakes:
2 cups raw almonds
1 ½ cups pitted dates
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ - ½ cup organic dried coconut flakes
1 scoop raw cacao powder (approximately 2-3 T)
Combine all ingredients in a food processor until combine. Press mixture into cupcake molds. Refrigerate up to one hour before serving with topping.
For pudding topping:
Flesh from 2 young Thai coconuts
2 scoops cacao powder (approximately 4-5 T)
1 scoop mesquite powder (approximately 2-3 T)
1 scoop lucuma powder (approximately 2-3 T)
3 T agave nectar
1 dropper chocolate flavored SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia
2 tsp organic coffee extract
1 T cold pressed coconut oil
dash organic ground cinnamon
¼ - ½ cup or more fresh Thai coconut water
Combine all ingredients in a blender. Mix well until silky smooth. Serve as pudding or topping on a raw cupcake, such as the Cacao-Nut Cupcake. Very yummo!
Well, that’s it for today. I’ll have to find some more time later in the week to tell you more about the books I’ve been reading.
Until next time! Peace!
- Debbie :)
Until next time! Peace!
- Debbie :)
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Lots to blog about!
New sites to visit, with E-books to try
I recently discovered this great raw website, The Art of Raw Food and Healthy Living, ”Tried, Tasted, Served”. The site is very elegant, with beautiful photographs, and just packed with information. The site offers several informative E-books, recipes included. So, I chose to purchase “Chop to Impress”. This E-book is all about preparing gourmet style raw food, without using a dehydrator, or any other real fancy equipment. Just basic chopping skills and fresh produce, and spices is all you need. The recipes are incredible! I can’t wait to download the next E-book from this site.
My raw chocolate desires…
I’m not sure if I told you that I recently purchased the book Naked Chocolate: The Astonishing Truth About the World's Greatest Food
Being the true choco-holic I am, anything centered around the word chocolate gets my attention!I love the layout of this book. David and Shazzie have presented a very colorful, informative, and fun view of the history of “chocolate”, and all that it has to offer, both in health, wealth, and well-being. It’s the kind of book you can skip through various chapters if you want, and not get lost. However, I encourage you to read from beginning to end, so you don’t miss a thing. The book also offers some absolutely, out-of-site, tasty raw chocolate recipes you don’t want to miss! There’s nothing boring about this book in the least, and it delivers all the “chocolate” bliss you should expect!
Obviously this book has got me thinking, and dreaming about raw chocolate. I’ve really been craving it lately – but not just any chocolate. I’ve been craving “raw” chocolate (or raw cacao). I’m especially craving raw truffles. So, for the past couple of weeks I have been snacking on Uli Mani’s raw truffles. They are so delicious – I mean really good! You can either buy them online, which is what I originally did months ago. Or, you can buy them at Whole Foods Market. There are several different types to choose from, and all of them are great. My favorite is the Goji Berry truffles, and the Hemp truffles. But, now I’m not so sure, since I tried a new and exciting Mayan truffle – very hot and spicy – but oh so chocolatey!
Since I’ve been on this kick, I have been searching on my own for the perfect raw chocolate truffle recipe, in order to create my own. There are many delicious versions out there, and all are simple to make. So, as I always do, I studied all the varieties, and I’m creating my own as we speak. I’ll let you know how it comes out.
More books to read…
As you may be aware, I have been buying a lot of “raw” books lately. There are so many good ones to choose from, that I have started collecting them. Well, I’m kind of reading about four books at one time. Besides book Naked Chocolate: The Astonishing Truth About the World's Greatest Food
, I also purchased Eating For Beauty
I love reading anything that David Wolfe produces, and this book is no exception. The layout and format of David’s works are always pleasing, and interesting. In this book, there are plenty of beautiful pictures, and informative explanations of the various methods of beautifying one’s self through fresh raw foods. There is no doubt that raw food is the ticket to bother inner and outer beauty. It doesn’t take that long to discover this when first transitioning to raw foods from the S.A.D. way of life – and David’s book definitely shows you how. I’ve just begun reading, but there’s no chance for disappointment with this read.
In between reading the two David Wolf books, and Raw Food Life Force Energy: Enter a Totally New Stratosphere of Weight Loss, Beauty, and Health
, I’m also reading another new one that I just can’t put down, 12 Steps to Raw Foods: How to End Your Dependency on Cooked Food
.If you truly want good reading that hits home, and inspires you to make the change from S.A.D. to raw – this is the book to read. Victoria Boutenko’s writing is fantastic. It’s been hard to put this book down. I truly could relate to so much of what she writes about when it came to her family’s experience and the reason for their transition and transformation. Plus she presents great life examples that truly make you think about what it is we are doing to our bodies – it’s incredible!
I want to provide you with some type of summary review, but I’m not ready yet to share my notes. It’s the kind of book, that after you get through all the reading, you want to go back and read it again, just to make serious notes about the information you read, and the steps that you need to take for your own transition and transformation. There’s definitely more for me to write on this one. I’ll get back to you. In the meantime, if you can’t wait for me, then please do, pick up a copy of this book. You won’t be sorry you did!
Plans to take Yoga at the Rec Center
Now that my son Brad had his cast removed from his arm, we have decided to start going to the local Recreation Center three times a week to exercise and take a yoga class. I’m happy to say that the Rec Center is actually offering two types of yoga, once being Kundalini Yoga, which is supposed to be very good for people who suffer with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, like my son and I do. I’m hoping that by going to the Rec Center regularly, the two of us with both get into tip-top shape, and I’m hoping that my son will incorporate more of a raw-food lifestyle too. He already enjoys green and fruit smoothies with me, just as his dad does. I’m just hoping to move him over to a higher percentage of raw. He’s already 14 ½ years old – so healthy living is even more important to help him transition to a healthy adult! And it’s great for me, and he makes good company too. Tomorrow will be our official first time going. Just so you know, I already ride the recumbant bike at home three times a week for at least 20 minutes at full speed. I also do various back and leg exercises, and occasionally some weights. But I could definitely use a lot more “breathing” type exercises, and toning too. This will be a good thing for sure!
Great way to keep your produce fresh!
Have you tried the green produce bags? They really work! The first time I heard about these great bags was from one of the associates at Whole Foods. These bags can save you $$$ on most of your fresh raw produce for up to two weeks or more. At least that’s my experience with them. It’s the greatest invention. Especially if you have to travel far for fresh, organic, raw produce like I do. There are two brands that I know of, which price wise and quality wise seem about the same, Debbie Meyer Green Bags, and Evert-Fresh Green Bags. I’ve used both.
Natural Desert Gels
I have suffered from chronic back problems for many years. Part of my healing is finding other methods of “pain management”, besides taking pain pills. Next to raw foods, massage, exercise and chiropractic methods, I also use a great natural pain relieving gel, produced by Sonoran Desert Lotions - called Natural Muscle Relief. This stuff really works too! I know the manufacturer of this product personally, and I was one of the first people to ever test this product during it’s creation, and I can honestly say it has made all the difference in my back health! And the wonderful thing about these Natural Desert Gels is they are all chemical, Paraben, dye and fragrance free – meaning they are all natural! If you are interested, check out their website at http://www.sonoranbotanicalsllc.com/.
SweetLeaf Sweetener’s, Jim May on local TV
SweetLeaf Sweetener, owner and creator, Jim May was recently on the local NBC network television program, Sonoran Living to talk about the new GRAS approved SweetLeaf Sweetener. The only sweetener made with stevia, a naturally sweet plant that is 30 times sweeter than sugar, calorie-free, zero glycemic index, carb-free, and all-natural, making it the perfect alternative for diabetics, and individuals looking for a healthier sugar substitute. To see the interview, and learn more about this product, visit this Sonoran Living.
Smoothie recipes
Yes, I created a few more yummy smoothies to share. Enjoy!
So Cold and Refresh-een!:
1 ½ cups sliced frozen organic peaches (peeled and stoned)
1 ½ cups sliced frozen organic mango (peeled and stoned)
1 ½ cups dark frozen organic cherries (stemmed and seeded)
2 small bananas (peeled)
1 T hemp seed
1 scoop raw protein
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
2 cups almond nut mylk (or any other nut mylk desired)
2 handfuls spinach
1/3 cucumber (peeled and cut)
3-4 sprigs mint (chopped fine)
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
plenty of purified ice cubes, and enough purified water to cover.
Place all ingredients in the blender and puree until very smooth and cold. Serves about 2-4 full cold and fresh glasses of green smoothie!
Veggie-Stone Smoothie:
2 celery stalks (cut)
1 handful parsley
1 handful spinach
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
1 T raw honey
2 small bananas (peeled)
2 nectarines (stoned and cut)
2 peaches (stoned and cut)
2 cups dark cherries (stemmed and pitted)
½ cup frozen organic mango chunks
8-10 purified ice cubes, and enough purified water to cover
Combine all ingredients in a blender, and puree and mix on high until very smooth and cold. Makes about 4 full glasses.
I also made some other goodies too.
Well, that’s it for today. Hope you enjoyed my blog. Until next time!
Peace!
- Debbie
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Water fasting attempts, green smoothies, and books to read and review
Well the last several days I’ve been busy working long hours, and taking care of home stuff – and doing my best to keep up with my email reading. You see, I belong to quite a number of blog-mails, and newsletters related to the raw food lifestyle, health and well-being, and stevia (since I work for SweetLeaf). There’s a lot of great information out there on the world-wide web, as well as great and inspirational people to meet too. I know I’ve said it before, but if it weren’t for the wonderful raw-foodies I’ve met on the web, I would not have known how incredibly fantastic raw food could possibly be!
I’ve been doing a lot reading, and smoothie making (lol), so I will share some of that with you a little later in this blog. But first, I need to tell you about my attempt to do my first “water fast”. Yeah, 16 hours was the tops for me. I started reading a forum on http://www.goneraw.com/, when I read what raw food coach, Debbie Took, of Raw for Life, wrote about joining her for a 24-hour water fast on Saturday, June 14th (yesterday). Needless to say I was quite interested, and read more about water fasting and it’s benefits. Checkout Debbie’s blog for more information. Anyway, I gave it my best shot, and caved by the late afternoon. Not because I was hungry, but because of the temptation of food. I had just finished shopping at Whole Foods, and then had to make a late lunch for the family – I caved! However, it did feel good while I tried, so I will definitely try it again sometime soon. Hopefully I’ll make it the full 24 hours next time.
If you recall, I was reading Natalia Rose's, "Raw Food Life Force Energy"
. The sections I just completed were mainly about food combining, and basically “how to eat” (when, how much, and so on). The section term to remember, “quick-exit combinations”. Quick-exit foods are considered high-Life Force Energy foods, and when combined correctly with other lower Life Force foods can benefit the body any many ways. Including cleansing, and feeding the body in the best way possible. I’m getting closer to the end (or to the recipe section). The neat thing about this book, is that it has an actual plan to follow to help you make the transition to a “Raw Food Life Force Energy”. It’s really a great book. I recommend it highly.
As you know, I’ve purchased quite a few raw books over the past several weeks. So I have much more to talk about later. In fact, today I purchased yet another great book, Naked Chocolate by David Wolfe, and Shazzie
. I can’t wait to read this one! As for e-books, I recently purchased Angela Stokes’ “Raw Emotions”. I love the way Angela writes – she writes from the heart…so I’m very excited about reading her latest!
I also downloaded some more great recipes. This time from Raw Chef Dan, and from another raw foodie, Shelley Abegg. I always have enjoyed collecting and sharing recipes…whether or not it is S.A.D. or RAW – it’s great fun!
So speaking of recipes, I have made quite a few more smoothies, and some other tasty treats. I had fun making flavorful crackers, and raw ice creams/sherbets. But my favorite lately is making shakes and smoothies – green smoothies especially.
Here are some new and tasty brews to make!
Creamy Cherry Delight Smoothie:
(Inspired by a juice recipe I found in a juice and smoothie book)
1 apple, peeled, cored, and cut
1 Bosch pear, peeled, cored, and cut
2 small bananas, peeled and cut
10oz bag of frozen organic dark cherries (or 1 ½ - 2 cups fresh cherries – seeded and stemmed)
2 handfuls spinach
1 cup almond nut mylk
1 full dropper of SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia, Peppermint flavor
Purified water to cover, and ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings of a refreshing and sweet cherry treat!
Stone Cream Greenery Shake:
1 handful fresh parsley
1 handful baby romaine lettuce with spinach
2 stalks of celery cut
1 medium banana, peeled
1 peach, stoned and cut
2 plums, stoned and cut
2 nectarines, stoned and cut
½ - 1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
1-2 cups almond nut mylk
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
1 T hemp seeds
Purified water to cover, and ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. This shake is truly refreshing and energizing!
Romaine-Star Smoothie:
2 star fruits, sliced (save a slice or two for garnish)
2 pears, seeded and cut
1 medium banana, peeled and cut
2 handfuls baby romaine lettuce
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
1 T raw honey
Purified water to cover, and 6 cubes of ice
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Garnish with sliced star fruit. Makes about 2-3 full servings.
Three Greens in a Fountain:
(The flavored reminded me of a diner’s fountain chocolate malt shake)
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 handful spinach
1 handful fresh parsley
3 small bananas, peeled and cut
1 scoop raw cacao powder
1 scoop raw carob powder
Drizzle of agave (or dates to taste)
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder (chocolate flavored)
Purified water to cover, and about 6 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. Yummo!
I also made two types of tasty crackers from chia and flax seeds. One was made with different seaweeds, and the other with cacao and banana. They both came out quite delicious! And for dessert, I made a very berry raw sherbet using cashews, dates, vanilla, a little agave nectar, water, raspberries and strawberries.
Waki-Nori Seaweed Crackers with Spicy Sushi “Rice” (Jicama)
Choco-nana Crackers with Raw Vanilla Ice Cream and Maple drizzle
Raw-berry Sherbet with Agave drizzle and Coconut flakes
Well that’s it for tonight. I’ll try to write more later this week. Keep it raw!
- Debbie
I’ve been doing a lot reading, and smoothie making (lol), so I will share some of that with you a little later in this blog. But first, I need to tell you about my attempt to do my first “water fast”. Yeah, 16 hours was the tops for me. I started reading a forum on http://www.goneraw.com/, when I read what raw food coach, Debbie Took, of Raw for Life, wrote about joining her for a 24-hour water fast on Saturday, June 14th (yesterday). Needless to say I was quite interested, and read more about water fasting and it’s benefits. Checkout Debbie’s blog for more information. Anyway, I gave it my best shot, and caved by the late afternoon. Not because I was hungry, but because of the temptation of food. I had just finished shopping at Whole Foods, and then had to make a late lunch for the family – I caved! However, it did feel good while I tried, so I will definitely try it again sometime soon. Hopefully I’ll make it the full 24 hours next time.
If you recall, I was reading Natalia Rose's, "Raw Food Life Force Energy"
. The sections I just completed were mainly about food combining, and basically “how to eat” (when, how much, and so on). The section term to remember, “quick-exit combinations”. Quick-exit foods are considered high-Life Force Energy foods, and when combined correctly with other lower Life Force foods can benefit the body any many ways. Including cleansing, and feeding the body in the best way possible. I’m getting closer to the end (or to the recipe section). The neat thing about this book, is that it has an actual plan to follow to help you make the transition to a “Raw Food Life Force Energy”. It’s really a great book. I recommend it highly.As you know, I’ve purchased quite a few raw books over the past several weeks. So I have much more to talk about later. In fact, today I purchased yet another great book, Naked Chocolate by David Wolfe, and Shazzie
. I can’t wait to read this one! As for e-books, I recently purchased Angela Stokes’ “Raw Emotions”. I love the way Angela writes – she writes from the heart…so I’m very excited about reading her latest!I also downloaded some more great recipes. This time from Raw Chef Dan, and from another raw foodie, Shelley Abegg. I always have enjoyed collecting and sharing recipes…whether or not it is S.A.D. or RAW – it’s great fun!
So speaking of recipes, I have made quite a few more smoothies, and some other tasty treats. I had fun making flavorful crackers, and raw ice creams/sherbets. But my favorite lately is making shakes and smoothies – green smoothies especially.
Here are some new and tasty brews to make!
Creamy Cherry Delight Smoothie:
(Inspired by a juice recipe I found in a juice and smoothie book)
1 apple, peeled, cored, and cut
1 Bosch pear, peeled, cored, and cut
2 small bananas, peeled and cut
10oz bag of frozen organic dark cherries (or 1 ½ - 2 cups fresh cherries – seeded and stemmed)
2 handfuls spinach
1 cup almond nut mylk
1 full dropper of SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia, Peppermint flavor
Purified water to cover, and ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings of a refreshing and sweet cherry treat!
Stone Cream Greenery Shake:
1 handful fresh parsley
1 handful baby romaine lettuce with spinach
2 stalks of celery cut
1 medium banana, peeled
1 peach, stoned and cut
2 plums, stoned and cut
2 nectarines, stoned and cut
½ - 1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
1-2 cups almond nut mylk
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
1 T hemp seeds
Purified water to cover, and ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. This shake is truly refreshing and energizing!
Romaine-Star Smoothie:
2 star fruits, sliced (save a slice or two for garnish)
2 pears, seeded and cut
1 medium banana, peeled and cut
2 handfuls baby romaine lettuce
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
1 T raw honey
Purified water to cover, and 6 cubes of ice
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Garnish with sliced star fruit. Makes about 2-3 full servings.
Berry-Green Super Smoothie:
6-8 fresh strawberries cut and chopped (about 1 cup)
1 cup blueberries
2 small bananas, peeled and cut
1-2 handfuls spinach
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
2 dashes bee pollen granules
2 spoonfuls coconut oil (cold pressed)
1 T raw honey
Purified water to cover, and about 6 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. This one will definitely fill you up!
6-8 fresh strawberries cut and chopped (about 1 cup)
1 cup blueberries
2 small bananas, peeled and cut
1-2 handfuls spinach
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder
1 scoop raw protein
2 dashes bee pollen granules
2 spoonfuls coconut oil (cold pressed)
1 T raw honey
Purified water to cover, and about 6 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. This one will definitely fill you up!
Three Greens in a Fountain:
(The flavored reminded me of a diner’s fountain chocolate malt shake)
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 handful spinach
1 handful fresh parsley
3 small bananas, peeled and cut
1 scoop raw cacao powder
1 scoop raw carob powder
Drizzle of agave (or dates to taste)
1 scoop Green SuperFood powder (chocolate flavored)
Purified water to cover, and about 6 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender, and puree until very smooth. Makes about 2-3 full servings. Yummo!
I also made two types of tasty crackers from chia and flax seeds. One was made with different seaweeds, and the other with cacao and banana. They both came out quite delicious! And for dessert, I made a very berry raw sherbet using cashews, dates, vanilla, a little agave nectar, water, raspberries and strawberries.
Waki-Nori Seaweed Crackers with Spicy Sushi “Rice” (Jicama)
Choco-nana Crackers with Raw Vanilla Ice Cream and Maple drizzle
Raw-berry Sherbet with Agave drizzle and Coconut flakes
Well that’s it for tonight. I’ll try to write more later this week. Keep it raw!
- Debbie
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