Making (Not Buying) Holiday Gifts for 2012

Throughout the year, I’ve strived to buy less and make more (and learned a TON along the way). This started in the late spring with my first-ever herb and vegetable garden on my balcony, and has grown into a full-on love affair with cooking and baking for all occasions – using quality, local, and healthful ingredients wherever possible. So many people don’t cook or bake and the delight they have in getting something homemade makes me feel so wonderful.

ย It’s no surprise then that I would decide to give baked goods as holiday gifts to all my friends this year. I found some yummy cookie recipes to try, and got little treat boxes and tins to package the finished products. The results were delicious, low-cost, homemade, and so much fun to make! Continue reading

I’ve Got a Craving…

…For these delicious dishes at some of my favorite local Atlanta restaurants. I’m not a “foodie” but I love trying new foods and restaurants. Over the past 4.5 years I’ve lived in Atlanta I’ve had some bad, good and great meals. I decided I wanted to share the ten meals/dishes/treats that I crave on a regular basis, with all of you. Enjoy! Continue reading

Who Really Controls America?

I would like to develop a political platform, much like my friend Jesse has, but I haven’t gotten around to it yet. However, I keep learning and stumbling across ways of not only thinking, but communicating that are helping me determine what I will eventually write. This particular rant from George Carlin sums up just about all of my thoughts around government, the State, Corporations and the Media – and it was this kind of thinking that freed me from the trap of believing in a two-party system with “elections” of any real consequence. Let’s get it started with this quote, then you can watch and read on: “The politicians are put there to give you the idea that you have freedom of choice…you don’t. You have no choice, you have owners.” – George Carlin. Continue reading

Sriracha Turkey Meatballs

Another fantastic recipe found on Pinterest, I made these Sriracha Turkey Meatballs for the Thanksgiving potluck at my office. I think they were the first dish to be completely gone – wow! Sriracha is definitely a popular food condiment here, and I think it added to the appeal for my coworkers. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Either way, these were a crowd-pleaser and would be great for any upcoming holiday parties. Continue reading

Food in America

Quote

If you are not free to choose what you eat โ€” or even know what you are eating โ€” how free are you, America?

In reference to this article/commentary in general: http://gizadeathstar.com/2012/02/monsanto-cafeteria-bans-gmo-foods/ย and to Monsanto/Prop37 defeat specifically.

Save the Basil!

A bit of a sensationalist title, but it can be a real problem. Basil grows beautifully all summer and we get used to cutting fresh leaves for pasta, Caprese salad, infused simple syrups, and yummy additions to lemonade and tea. Then, inevitably, the nights get colder and it stops growing. ๐Ÿ™ Why can’t we have fresh, delicious basil all winter?

There’s a way! I found this tip on Pinterest and I tried it –

Continue reading