FLAVOURSOME POTATO STACKS

Potato Towers
You will need;
Potatoes - washed, unpeeled and thinly sliced, olive oil, garlic cloves - crushed, salt and finely chopped rosemary or thyme.

What to do;

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly so that each slice of potato is covered in the herb/oil mixture.

Make 'towers' of sliced potatoes in a greased dish, making sure the larger slices are at the bottom. Bake until brown and crisp. The REAL treat is at the bottom of each tower - crispy 'n chewy.
Kitchen Thoughts by Tenzo Kyokun

Don't leave the preparation of food to someone else, for the practice of the Buddha way is realized by rolling up your sleeves. When you have finished washing the rice, put it into the cooking pot. Take special care lest a mouse falls accidentally into it. Under no circumstances allow anyone who happens to be drifting through the kitchen to poke his fingers in the pot.

Non-violence is the supreme law of life. - Indian Proverb.

Today's Wisdom Card

I have unlimited potential. Loving myself and thinking joyful, happy thoughts is the quickest way to create a wonderful life.

Today, if you are waiting on tangible proof and can't see the evidence yet know that the Universe is working behind the scenes to help you, you will see results. So, put a Buddha smile on your face and celebrate ..............................

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

HEALTH BOOSTING ROOIBOS TEA

Rooibos tea was traditionally brewed by the Khoi people of the Cederberg mountains, who believed that it had health benefits.

Rooibos 'punch' facts;

• an excellent source of antioxidants


• can fight allergies


• acts as a digestive aid therefore relieving cramps and colic in babies


• soothes skin irritation when applied directly to the affected area


• boosts the immune system


• has a low tannin count, which means it does not inhibit the absorption of iron


• contains no caffeine


• is virtually kilojoule-free


• contains no colourants, additives or preservatives


• slows down the ageing process


• may assist in the fight against certain cancers

Tea is instant wisdom, just add water. -Astrid Alauda

RED PEPPER AND TOMATO SOUP (RAWLICIOUS)

You will need;

• 5 tomatoes, 2 red peppers, 1/4 red onion, handful of fresh basil leaves, 1 handful of cashews, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, 1 small handful of goji berries, 1/2 cup warm water and cayenne pepper

What to do;

• Blend all ingredients together. Add more water if needed.

This is a fabulous and very healthy raw soup.

Wisdom card reading

I am at the centre of peace. It is safe for me to look within. Each time I look deeper into myself, I will find incredibly beautiful treasures within me.

Today, LUV YOUR LIFE

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

TOMORROW IS INTERNATIONAL 'THANK YOU' DAY

Go on - pick someone special who has made a difference in your life during the last year. This should be a person who simply made a comment and shifted your viewpoint or direction. It could even be someone who did not even know they helped you - Wham!!! it just happened.
Share this with your friends and tell people that they have made a difference, however big or small.
Write a thank you note in your journal or paste a thank you note on your vision board.
Make February the 9th a GREAT thank you day.

Quote

'How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world' - William Shakespeare.

Cauliflower and spinach stir fry

Here's what to do ........

Today's wisdom card reading

Whenever I encounter a challenge in my life, I use the experience to learn and grow.

Today I am grateful for;

• the Obs holistic lifestyle fair (first Sunday of every month)
• Sunday lunch and giggles with friends
• Monday - this week will ROCK!

Today, remember to celebrate International Give Thanks Day tomorrow, wear your designer jeans and let your mystical wisdom inspire you ........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

NATURAL SLEEP REMEDIES

There is an entire industry devoted to the issue of sleeping disorders offering both drugs and natural sleep aids to allow you to rest in order to maintain good health.
Sleep-easy tips

• sleep in a cool room with proper ventilation for fresh air
• ensure the room and surrounds are quiet
• do not use caffeine, alcohol or eat heavy spicy foods for several hours before going to bed
• try to go to bed at roughly the same time every day
• exercise daily
• avoid using the bedroom as an office or work area
• ensure you get enough sunlight to maintain proper circadian rhythms which are necessary for sleep
• do not fight the need to sleep - if you are tired rest
• use rhythmic breathing or other meditative techniques to help fall asleep

These natural substances can assist;

• Valerian Root - a calming herb used as a natural sedative
• Chamomile - another herb used for relaxation
• Kava - used to promote muscle relaxation and aids sleep
• Tryptopham - an amino acid precursor to Seratonin and Melatonin, which are both involved in sleep
• Magnesium - a mineral that helps promote relaxation

Before using any of the above consult a doctor or naturopath who is knowledgeable about these substances.

Sleep is extremely important and a lack thereof can lead to problems ranging from difficulties with simple tasks to weakened immune function.

Last night's carrot bake

• steam and mash carrots (leave them still slightly chunky and rustic looking)
• chop onion, garlic, green/red/yellow peppers and chilli
• mix all the above ingredients and add salt 'n pepper
• transfer to a baking dish and cover with seasoned breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast
• bake until the topping is crunchy and enjoy together with boiled baby potatoes dunked in basil pesto........................ and a crunchy cabbage salad.

Today I am grateful for;

• one day closer to Christmas holidays
• my brother and Kathy returning from their holiday - back home - Yay!
• looking forward to Mish's birthday picnic bash at Kirstenbosch tomorrow
• my 'whopping' good health
• FIFA 2010 draw - looking forward to the excitement this evening. Cape Town has been buzzing all week with Celebs
• our 2010 stadium - I'm so proud

Quote

Even if there is nothing to laugh about, laugh on credit. - Unknown

Wisdom Card Reading

I am a harmonious being. I am in harmony with all of the people, places, and things that surround me in this world. I am at peace.

Today, spot the miracles with paws who laugh with their tails and join in raucously..........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

SHINY GLOWING RED PEPPERS

Christopher Columbus discovered sweet peppers on his travels in the New World. He thought he could make a fortune importing this delish veggie BUT sweet peppers grew fine in their new, Mediterranean home.

When young, sweet peppers or bell peppers are green. There are also yellow, orange, purple and brown varieties. Red peppers are actually green peppers left to ripen on the vine for a longer period of time. The sweetest peppers are red, yellow and orange, while green and purple peppers have a more tart flavour.

Peppers are full of vitamins and BONUS consist mostly of water so are low in calories.

Picking a pepper : Look for smooth, firm flesh that has a rich colour and no shriveled or soft spots. Avoid peppers with a hefty feel - this usually means they are full of seeds.

Pepper partners : Sweet peppers taste great with eggplant, tomatoes, summer squash, onions, garlic and corn. Other good flavour partners include basil, marjoram, olives, mozzarella, goat cheese, Parmesan and capers.

Yummy roasted red peppers

• red bell peppers
• olive oil
• garlic cloves
• chopped parsley
• salt and pepper

What to do;

Roast peppers until they have blackened spots, blisters and are tender. Place into a plastic bag and set aside to cool. Once cool remove the skin and seeds. Cut into strips. In a glass jar combine salt, pepper,olive oil, garlic and parsley. Add peppers and store in the fridge.

Great on pizza's, salads, in wraps or as a snack with a cheese platter.

Today I am grateful for;

• fab summer weather
• yesterday's yummy pizza
• my new laptop courtesy of the insurance :) and
• the mechanical mouse
• the conduit guys
• Pete's visit - was sooo scrumptious to see you
• my 2010 Kent calendar

This makes me smile

" When I think of how much I have to look forward to, I almost hyperventilate." - Mike Dooley.

Fabulous John Lennon Quote;

Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted."

Wisdom Card Reading

I am a natural winner. I only listen to the winners - people who know what they are doing and who live a joyous, loving, prosperous life.

Love yourself, create your own paradise and throw in some ' spur of the moment fun' and live it........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

MONDAY MUSINGS

Feed your face and your skin

Make sure you load your supermarket trolley with the following face-saving edibles;

• green tea - reduces cancer risk and may assist in reversing sun damage
• tomatoes - cook your tomatoes for many health benefits, also said to help eliminate skin-ageing
• sweet potatoes - loaded with vitamin C which is essential for collagen production
• almonds - they fall in the seed not nut category, a powerhouse of vitamin E
• dark chocolate - improves skin texture and resistance to uv rays
• carrots - the vitamin A repairs damaged cells, reduces the development of skin cancer cells and keeps your 'peepers' in top form
• flax seeds - the omega 3 fatty acids wipe out spots and fine lines
• spinach - the big C hates these luscious green leafies, they literally bolster the cells' ability to renew themselves

It's so easy, feed your "temple" with the above yumminess and your skin will automatically benefit.

Add this to the above and you will be "health-happening";

• use crushed garlic daily - it reduces your risk of many serious illnesses including cancer and heart disease
• add beans to your daily raw salad - it is said that people who eat legumes have a far lower risk of obesity than those who don't
• eat apples daily - full of anti-oxidants, vitamin C and potassium. Just add to smoothies or salads or munch as a snack.
• lemon juice - add to your filtered water, one lemon gives you 45% of your daily vitamin C - so simple!

Who can be an Urban goddess (Lulu McNamara);

Any woman can! Any woman who wants to reconnect with her divine female energy can realize her true Goddess potential.

Remember, as a woman, you are already an expression of the universal female archetype, and you deserve to be honoured as such. No matter how ordinary you may feel you are, you can still be a Goddess in spirit and action with your own unique Urban Goddess energy, characteristics and style.

More Urban Goddess Inspirations to follow in future blogs.

Last night's nosh;

Loads of lightly steamed crunchy Broccoli (including the green leaves) and a veggie bake, which included potato, golden Patti pans, courgettes, green beans, lentils- smothered in a tomato sauce and topped with wholewheat breadcrumbs for crunch. Oh, chilli and garlic of course. Together with this we had a carrot and cuke salad dressed with lemon juice and some herbs from the garden.

Today I am grateful for;

• yesterday's "cutie-pie" shopping for my two darlings
• the hours I spent yesterday working on Picasa - SOOO much to learn, SUCH fun
• it's November - Yay!!! almost holiday time again
• my early morning swim today
• today's breakfast of oats, apple 'n loads of flax seeds with green tea

Why;

do weekends seem to pass at the speed of a formula 1 racing car? So many things to do, so many places to go and so little time.........

Wisdom Card Reading;

Everything I do is by choice.

I now listen to what I say. I don't say anything that I don't mean to become true for me. (this is very difficult!)

Cultivate a habit of zest, experience every moment as extraordinary. Find a park, jump on a swing and giggle .....

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

HAVE A SPOOKYFULL HALLOWEEN SATURDAY

Trick or Treat

Today is such a gorgeous summers day heading for a balmy evening. Can't wait to see all the neighbourhood kiddies in their Halloween costumes.

My rules for life (in no particular order)

• have no regrets
• live in the now
• take beach walks
• don't judge
• giggle often
• put aside me time
• read and learn
• be kind
• don't dwell on the past
• be positive
• do and experience everything with passion
• stay close to your family
• work hard
• don't take life too seriously
• appreciate your friends
• promote peace
• eat your veggies
• learn from your pups
• be grateful
• be thankful for your life
• do outrageous things more often
• wear a bright turquoise hat
• swim often
• spoil yourself

What are your rules for life?

Last night's dinner

Baked butternut, spinach and red kidney beans, basmati rice and I turned the last of the cauliflower, carrots and broccoli into a super raw salad sprinkled with sunflower, sesami and pumpkin seeds with a squeeze of lemon juice.

Spinach 'n Red Kidney Beans

• onion, chopped
• garlic, chopped
• chilli (lot's to give it kick!)
• spinach, chopped
• parsley
• red kidney beans
• olive oil
• lemon juice
• himalayan salt and black pepper

What to do;

• sauté onion, garlic and chilli in olive oil
• add chopped spinach and parsley and simmer until almost wilted
• add red kidney beans salt and pepper and simmer for another couple of minutes
• add lemon juice and enjoy with Basmati rice

Today I am grateful for;

• the delish lunch at Manf 'n Kathy's - as always very special
• the fabulous selection of fresh veggies we bought this morning
• the weekend
• the green tea I am sipping and my pups at my feet while I am writing this post

Quote

"The natural force within each one of us is the greatest healer of all diseases" - Hippocrates

New book arrived last night from Kalahari.net

Some instructions on writing and life - Anne Lamott

Thought I should start educating myself about writing BEFORE I start my book. I have a habit of diving into things without reading instructions. So, this time I am doing it right.

Wisdom Card Reading

I am a harmonious being. I am in harmony with all of the people, places, and things that surround me in this world. I am at peace.

Eat berries, drink vino and dance 'dervishly'...

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

YAY IT'S FRIDAY!

Take this fun survey from Veganview.

Here are my answers;

Choose between locally grown or organic, which do you usually choose?

First locally grown. Of course organic would be ideal but often pricey.

Favourite way to prepare potatoes?

Curried.

Do you press your Tofu before cooking?

Nah, far too much trouble.

Name a favourite recipe that is a tradition in your family?

Bayerisches Kraut.

When you want to go to a fancy dinner, where do you go?

I don't do fancy, I'm a cheap date. Give me veggies and I'm soaring!

When you have a cold, what do you crave?

soup....soup.....soup

What kind of water do you drink?

Filtered.

Name a flavour of soda you would like to see.

None, I generally don't drink soda.

If recipes you ate as a child were compiled into a cookbook, what would the title be?

Mama's Simply Delishus.

Favourite type of mushroom?

Pink Oyster.

Usual response to a veggies favourite question. "But where do you get your protein from?"

Yawn!!! Dark leafies, beans, nuts, and....and....and....

If you were baking your own birthday cake what flavour would it be?

Carrot cake with yummy drippy lemoney icing.

You have 3 minutes before you have to leave the house and you're starving - what do you eat?

Pumpkin seeds, last night's leftovers, strawberries if I have, a carrot, etc.

If Martha Stewart, Paula Deen and Rachel Ray got into a fight, who would win?

Probs Martha Stewart - I'm sure she picked up fighting tips while in jail.

If you got to travel to one country and learn all the traditional dishes there, where would you go?

India or Morocco.

Favourite late night snack?

Popcorn - made the old-fashioned way.

Name a holiday food you look forward to all year long?

Christmas Trifle.

If you could convert anyone to veganism with your magic want, who would you convert?

My family and my pups

Fun links;

www.anxietyculture.com how to stop worrying and other gimmicks

www.templeofthai.com homestyle Thai recipes

www.outdoor-photos.com WOW landscape pics

Last night's dinner;

A huge raw cabbage salad (finished most of it), roasted potato, pumpkin and onion, caulie'ncarrot in a veggie stock sauce and steamed squash.

Caulie'nCarrot Recipe;

• caulie, chopped into florets
• carrots, sliced (scrub - do not peel)
• onion, chopped
• garlic clove
• veggie stock
• chick pea or wholewheat flour
• himalayan rock salt and black pepper
• olive oil

What to do;

• sauté onions in olive oil until transluscent
• add chopped garlic clove, caulie 'n carrots,veggie stock and simmer until veggies are still a little crunchy
• sprinkle some flour over veggies and stir (this thickens the sauce)
• Eat!

Today I am grateful for;

• leggings - such useful 'in-between-season' fashion
• Victorian Garden 7Herb green clay refining face mask
• wind chimes
• plaits

Quote

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci

Wisdom Card Reading

I rise above all limitations. Whenever I encounter a challenge in my life, I use the experience to learn and grow.

Remember;

That happiness is a way of travel, not a destination. - Roy Goodman

Play lots and hug trees this weekend.....

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

ALMOST FABULOUS FRIDAY

I have a lovely smoky quartz angel. It's a kinda smoky brown/smoky black colour. Very unusual.

Smoky quartz is said to calm the mind and ground us.

This crystal is found in mountainous regions or within volcanic rock. The coloration is thought to occur when clear quartz is subjected to radioactive decay in nearby minerals.

My smoky quartz angel always feels earthy and mysterious to me and the depth of the smokiness seems to change depending on the light.

Last night's dinner; (all a tad of a rush due to a 16hoo meeting in the City and a tortoise crawl back home in rush hour traffic. WHY is it called 'rush hour'??? No-one is rushing!

We noshed our way through aubergine, courgettes, mushies in a garlicky, chili, tomatoeee sauce with bright yellow crunchy corn on the cob and this yummy rice. Oh, and a huge juicy cuke salad with squishy black olives.

Rice tossed in roasted mustard and cumin seeds

• basmati rice
• turmeric
• himalayan rock salt
• mustard seeds
• cumin seeds
• olive oil

What to do;

• add basmati, salt and turmeric to water and boil until the rice is done
• roast mustard and cumin seeds in olive oil until they 'pop'
• add roasted seeds to the rice and mix

The result;

A gorgeous fluffy, spicy golden coloured rice dish. Was delish topped with the Aubergine dish.

Great book I am reading for the second time;

Cave in the Snow - Vicki Mackenzie.

How an Englishwoman, the daughter of a fishmonger from London's East End, has become a Buddhist legend and a champion for the rights of women to attain spiritual enlightenment. An amazing and inspirational read

Quote

There are no accidents ...... there is only some purpose that we haven't yet understood. - Deepak Chopra

Today I am grateful for;

• interesting, motivating and successful meeting this am
• loads of giggles and serious chick-talk with my friend Carol last night while traveling to/from the talk we attended
• the mole in my garden - he's now seriously on his way next door

Wisdom Card Reading

My income is constantly increasing.

Money is energy and an exchange of services. How much I have depends on what I believe I deserve.

Believe in your dreams and visualize your success on this almost Friday day. AND make outrageous plans for the weekend.....

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

ZEN WEDNESDAY

src="

Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our everyday routine - Shunryu Suzuki

• do one thing at a time
• do it slowly and deliberately
• do it completely
• do less
• put space between things
• develop rituals
• designate time for certain things
• devote time to sitting
• smile and serve others
• make cleaning and cooking become meditation
• thing about what is necessary
• live simply

Wednesday in the kitchen in India

Mostly the corner of one room serves as a kitchen area. Food is cooked on a sunken stove or a portable clay stove. Wood or dried cow dung is used as fuel. There are only a few supplies; some pots 'n pans, utensils and a flat pan for cooking chapattis. Foodstuffs are stored in baskets or brass pots. Often the legs of large bins are set into little bowls of water so that insects cannot climb up the legs and get into the food supply.

The floor is kept very clean because cooks traditionally prepare meals while crouching or sitting on the floor. Instead of a knife, a woman uses a bonthi,which is a sharp blade mounted on the floor. The floor is washed thoroughly every night. The water runs down a drain in the middle of the room. A traditional Indian family eats seated on the floor in a big circle. It is considered a courtesy to allow the men to eat first.

Wednesday in my kitchen in Cape Town

Last night's dinner - Sweet Potato and Cabbage Hash

• sweet potatoes, cubed
• cabbage, chopped
• red onions, coarsely chopped
• olive oil
• Himalayan rock salt and black pepper

What to do;

• steam sweet potatoes until almost done
• heat olive oil and fry onions
• add cabbage and stir fry
• add sweet potato and mix/stir until the mixture appears "hashy"
• add salt 'n pepper

In addition to this we had loads of fried tomatoes garnished with organic Basil leaves from the garden and a raw broccoli, carrot 'n red onion salad in a lemony/olive oily dressing - a powerful healthylicious dinner.

A fave poem

I will not die an unlived life,

I will not live in fear,

of falling or catching fire.

I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me,

to make me less afraid, more accessible,

to loosen my heart

until it becomes a wing,

a torch, a promise.

I choose to risk my significance;

to live so that which came to me as seed

goes to the next as blossom

and that which came to me as blossom,

goes to fruit. - Dawna Markova

Today I am grateful for;

• my Vitamix blender - best smoothies ever
• my peaceful life
• Stubat - fun ancient Dornbirn reads
• pink 'n green highlighters - turn my diary into a creative work of art

Quote

Smile, breath and go slowly. - Thich Nhat Hanh

Wisdom Card Reading (Louise L Hay)

I am taking the next step for my healing.

The moment I say positive affirmations, I step out of the victim role.

I am no longer helpless.

I acknowledge my own power.

Remember : You have the power to make the angels swoon- Sera Beak

Learn it, luv it, live it - connect to your soul and bell-laugh endlessly ......

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

CABBAGE TUESDAY

src="

The Cabbage-Bunch Family
The cabbage family has a whopping ability to fight against the development of cancerous cells. brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage are all members of this family.

Interestingly Chinese women who consume huge amounts of cruciferous veggies saw their risk of developing breast cancer cut in half in comparison to women who consumed smaller amounts. Also, a Swedish study suggests that eating one or two daily servings of the above veggies is linked to a 40% drop in the risk of breast cancer.

Eating these veggies is also associated with a decrease in lung cancers, gastro-cancers and prostrate cancer.

Although tomatoes are the strongest ally in preventing prostrate cancer current research suggests that three or more servings of cruciferous veggies a week are proven to be even more power-punching.

In a nutshell;

• lightly steam cruciferous veggies or eat them raw (yummy in salads, stir-fry or raw dipped in hummus)
• these veggies contain many anti-cancer fighting 'punches' that slow the development of cancer by preventing carcinogenic substances from causing damage to our cells.

Lifestyle Mojo-Motto

Enjoy a balanced diet, high in veggies, fruits and pulses. Watch calorie intake to avoid weight gain. These two simple 'thangs' will significantly reduce the risk of developing serious, life-threatening illnesses.

Last night's dinner;

Moroccan Pumpkin (cld use butternut) and Lentil (could use beans) Casserole

• pumpkin, diced
• cinnamon
• onion, chopped
• olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• garlic cloves, chopped
• ginger
• lentils
• mushrooms, chopped
• tin chopped tomatoes
• himalayan rock salt and black pepper

What to do;

• sauté onions and pumpkin for 10 minutes
• add lentils, tomatoes, mushrooms, spices, salt and pepper
• simmer for around 5 minutes
• bake @ 180C until pumpkin is tender

This I had together with lightly steamed snowy-white cauliflower (reminded me of fluffy white clouds), steamed green cauliflower leaves AND a huge lettuce and basil salad with loads of red onions, a couple of olives all 'swished' in roasted sesame oil dressing.

Today I am grateful for;

• waking up at sunrise - full of energy and crazy good health
• my special angel stone - always at my side
• the books I am expecting from Kalahari.net
• this mornings carrot juice
• the rose water I use as a daily cleanser - best and cheapest discovery EVER
• the work appointments I have today

Quote

"Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship."Buddha

Wisdom Card Reading (Louise L Hay)

My mind is a powerful healing tool. Every illness holds a lesson for me to learn.

Glide through this Tuesday on the wings of a butterfly - Mwah!!!

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

MONDAY MUSINGS

We can all communicate with angels;

• Open your heart and ask for assistance from whoever you talk to. This could be God, the Universe, angels, fairies, saints, your fave movie star, your late mom or dad, etc.
• Meditate - sit quietly and focus on your breath and listen.
• Light a candle or burn incense.
• Create a sacred space with special objects and a meditation cushion. Visit your space regularly to think, talk and listen.
• Write a letter - writing about problems and fears can give you great insight.
• Soak up nature. You will be amazed at the beautiful gardens/parks you will find even in the city. Take a beach walk or a forest walk.
• Get creative - make an angel card collect special fabrics, pictures, words and make your very own card or give it to a special friend.
• Make a habit of 'quiet time' every day even if it's only 15 minutes.
• Walk to a chapel or church in your area, light a candle and sit quietly for 5 minutes.

A life saver spice - Turmeric

Turmeric and its principal active ingredient, curcumin, possess numerous anticancer properties that may be responsible for the wide differences observed in the rates of many cancers in India and North America.

Adding pepper to turmeric increases its healing properties.

The daily addition of a teaspoon of turmeric to soups, salad dressings, pasta dishes, curries, etc is a simple way of providing a curcumin intake sufficient to help prevent cancer from developing.

In studies curcumin has been shown to block the growth of an impressive number of cancer cells from human tumours, including leukaemia cells, colon, breast and ovary cancer cells.

So, don't forget to dive into a teaspoon of this sun-shiny yellow super spice daily.

Last night's Potato 'n Chick Pea Bake

• potatoes
• tin of tomatoes
• garlic
• onion
• lemon juice
• chick peas
• spinach
• chillies
• olive oil
• Himalayan rock salt and black pepper
• sunflower and sesami seeds

Directions

• Thinly slice potatoes and line a baking dish
• sauté onion, garlic and chillies then add a tin of tomato and a little veggie stock or water and simmer for around half an hour
• add chick peas (pre-cooked or canned)
• add shredded spinach and simmer for 10 minutes
• add salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice
• transfer the above to the baking dish
• cover with more sliced potatoes
• cover potatoes with sliced tomatoes
• sprinkle with sunflower and sesami seeds

Bake at 180 C for around 1 hour - DELISH!

Today I am grateful for;

• 3 new job specs I received today - Yay!
• the early morning thunder storm - don't have to water the garden
• birds in my garden - chowing on the bird seed throughout the day
• the luscious lavender on my desk
• Rose's lime juice with loads of ice and mint (from the garden) on a hot day

Quote

"See how nature - trees, flowers, grass grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence ... we need silence to be able to touch souls." - Mother Teresa

Wisdom Card Reading (Louise L Hay)

This year I do the mental work for positive change.

My motto this year is "I go for the joy!" Life is here for me to enjoy today.

Make sure to let curiosity and fun into your life on this marvelous Monday.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

SUNDAY STUFF

Good to know

I recently found out that some of our pizza chains (Col'Caccio, St Elmo's and Balducci's) use cheese made from non-animal rennet which is rBST-hormone free on their vegetarian pizza's. Yay!!! I don't have to feel guilty when I indulge in the occasional pizza.

Yummy pizza style bread I tried this weekend

• french loaf
• basil pesto
• mozzarella, sliced
• tomatoes, thinly sliced
• salt 'n pepper

Preheat oven to 180 C, cut 2 cm slits into the loaf being careful not to cut right through. Place a dollop of pesto, slice of tomato and slice of mozzarella into each slit. Season, wrap in foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 5 minutes to crisp the bread. You could probs substitute the mozzarella with camembert or brie.

A nifty dinner party snack idea

Fry a packet of ravioli in olive oil until crispy and serve with dips of your choice.

Fun tomato treat for your skin - great tingly firmness

Blend tomatoes with a little lemon juice and pat onto your skin. Rub gently over you skin for a few seconds and then rinse off with tepid water. Instant Glow!

The lowdown on tomatoes

Low in kilojoules and fat, tomatoes are cholesterol-free and an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre. Rich in vitamins A, C and E, tomatoes help to combat free radicals, which can cause cell damage that leads to heart disease and cancer. Cooked tomatoes are one of the best sources of lycopene, one of nature's most powerful antioxidants. This is the one vegetable that is more healthy cooked than raw because, in cooking, the tomato's water evaporates, concentrating the lycopene, so that our bodies are more able to absorb it. Tomatoes also contain potassium, calcium and other mineral salts and trace elements.

Be creative with tomatoes try Bloody Mary Lollipops

• 8 ripe tomatoes
• 250ml tomato juice
• 200ml vodka
• 30ml lime juice
• 20ml horseradish cream
• 50ml Worcestershire sauce

Blend all the ingredients until smooth. Pour mixture into 6 cups and stand a wooden stick in the middle. Freeze until hard. Unmould and toss over some celery curls and sprinkle with black pepper.

Today I am grateful for;

• yesterday evenings Skype with Peter, Janine, Kent and Morgan
• J Lee Trading Company in town - 5 kitchen sponges for R5-. Such a pleasure to shop there.
• Fabulous, special, long lazilicious Saturday lunch and vino with my friend Joan. We can just talk, laugh and cry forever..... thank you Joan.

A message for my dearest Kent

Just one more Happy Birthday wish for yesterday my special one. You must have a safe, healthy and adventurous year. I know our Universe will keep you safe and well throughout your long and wonderful life. 'Nita is so proud of you and you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Luv u (((xxx))).

Wisdom Card Reading (Louise L Hay)

I feel the bounce in my step. I see my shining eyes. The radiant me is right here. I claim it now. I am healthy and filled with energy.

Fun quote

I've never seen a butterfly in a hurry. - Mooch from Mutt's comics.

Have a super, sassy peace-filled Sunday.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

FABULOUS FRISKY FRIDAY

Sprouts

Sprouts are so nutritious and alkalizing. The vitamins and minerals just explode when sprouted and the phytochemicals that fight cancer appear in plants just as soon as they sprout.

Sprouts are yummy in salads, wraps, sandwiches, juices, stews, etc.

It is SO simple to grow your own sprouts. All you need is a jar, mesh and an elastic. Soak the seeds overnight and then drain and rinse twice a day. Your local health shop will also stock fancy sprouting kits.

Most sprouts are ready to eat within two to three days. Once they are ready store in a glass jar in the fridge.

Sprouts generally last for around a week.

Sprout Salad

• 2 cups of mixed sprouts
• avocado
• tomato, diced
• 1 tablespoon Tamari
• Himalayan rock salt

Simple : just mix all the ingredients and enjoy. Also super in a wholewheat or spinach wrap.

Today I am grateful for;

• my relaxing evening yesterday
• my current read : Choose them Wisely, Thoughts become Things - Mike Dooley
• the cute smiley ball I got from Kent, in his party pack, last year. It has pride of place on my desk.

Wisdom Card Reading

I release the past with ease, and I trust the process of life.

I do not use yesterday's mental garbage to create tomorrow's experiences. I create fresh new thoughts and a FRESH NEW LIFE.

Dream big, follow your heart, have fun and take a beach walk this weekend. Enjoy today, create special memories and then journal about them.

peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

Luscious Leafy Green Thursday

You have only one day left this week to eat your leafy greens.

Spinach - most beneficial when eaten raw. Spinach contains many valuable nutrients and is high in chlorophyll, iron, potassium and calcium.

or you can try

Swiss Chard - has the highest content of sodium of all greens and is a member of the beet family. Swiss Chard is high in calcium and chlorophyll and is a natural cleanser and strengthens bones.

and then there is

Kale - one of the most nutritious greens in the garden. Kale is also an outstanding source of calcium, vitamins c and e, beta-carotene and many more. One cup of Kale surpasses the calcium content in a glass of milk. Juicing Kale and drinking it on an empty stomach will revitalize your cells and the body in minutes. This is truly a super-tonic.

Together with your greens try this Spiced Sweet Potato recipe

• 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and left whole
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom seeds
• Himalayan rock salt to taste

Directions

• parboil the sweet potatoes for around 10 minutes, until just tender
• allow to cool slightly and cut into 6mm slices, length ways
• mix the olive oil and ground spices together, brush them over the slices of sweet potato
• place over hot barbecue coals for a few minutes on each side until crisp and golden (the oven grill can also be used)
• sprinkle with salt and serve immediately

Try the above recipe with butternut or aubergine.

This is so true;

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it'" -Lou Holtz

Today I am grateful for;

• yummy, relaxing chamomile tea
• The Bounce Back Book
• the end of the work day when I can chill and read
• the tree dude who trimmed my trees - sorry trees, hope it did not hurt.

Wisdom Card Reading (Louise L Hay)

I am willing to learn something new everyday.

I cannot learn other people's lessons for them. They must do the work themselves, and they will do it when they are ready.

Celebrate your awesomeness today and twirl in the sun rays.

peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

WEDNESDAY INSPIRATIONS

src="

What inspires you?
Here are some of the things that inspire me..

• slow times -"begin to see yourself as a soul with a body, rather than a body with a soul." Dr Wayne Dyer, freedom, fancy underwear (every day is a special occasion), beads, the bright, wonderful colours of the scrumptious veggies I eat, courageous peeps, The Woman's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, acknowledging my own power, Madonna - she does whatever she wants and never apologizes for it, writing in my journal, my blog, taking pics with my Sony, the ocean, my Koi, nature, food, joy, peace, gratitude, all the special people I luv, rainbows, my pups, Morgan, Kent, Louise Hay's books, my work, spirituality, rockin' good health, herbs in my garden, watching 'girls of the playboy mansion' endless laughs, crystals, my Buddha statues, new recipes, life, life, life .......

Remember;

From what we get we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life - Arthur Ashe

Wednesday in the kitchen

Super Simple Sprout Salad (Courtesy of Rawlicious)

• 2 cups of your favourite mixed sprouts
• avocado -diced
• 1 tomato sliced
• 1 tablespoon Tamari sauce
• 1pinch Himalayan rock salt

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and ENJOY.

Today I am grateful for;

• this new day filled with promise
• the sparkling dragonfly that has made my pond her home
• last night's baked sweet potatoes, carrots and steamed squash
• my water filter - goodbye chemicals
• my creative pencil, which writes in about 7 different colours

Wisdom Card Reading

I listen with love to my bodies messages.

My body, like everything else in life, is a mirror of my inner thoughts and beliefs. Every cell responds to every single thought I think and every word I speak.

Be courageous on this inspirational Wednesday - take a huge leap you will be caught.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

WEDNESDAY IN THE KITCHEN

One of my serious passions is nutrition. So, for today a quick 'n easy recipe with enough cancer fighting ooooomph to kick cancer right off our rockin' planet.

A scrummy-yummy dish for all you creative Goddesses out there.

Caullie in Tomatoeeee Sauce
one whole cauliflower with the leaves
1 tin of chopped tomatoes
tomato paste
crushed garlic
chopped onion
handful of black olives
capers (optional)
dash of cayenne pepper or chillies
black pepper
salt

- saute onion till translucent
- add tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, cayenne pepper or chillies, salt and black pepper.

Simmer the above until the sauce has reached a thickish consistency. Around 1/2 an hour normally does the trick.

- add olives and the whole cauliflower

and simmer until the cauliflower is cooked. This dish keeps really well and can be warmed up without creating too much damage.

It is important to use a pot that is just slightly bigger than the cauliflower so that it stands in the sauce. The sauce should not cover more than the bottom half of the cauliflower. In other words the top of the cauliflower steams in the pot and is not covered by the sauce.

This is megalicious as a side dish or a main with a green salad.

Exploring Raw Foods and their Healing Properties
Another thing I love doing is reading about the success seriously ill people have had in reversing their illnesses through a mostly raw food diet.

I love books by Natalia Rose BUT my current favourite is Rawlicious by Peter and Beryn Daniel. It is hugely informative, the recipes are simple and there is plenty of advice regarding equipment required and how to incorporate raw food into your life. It's simple, down to earth and basic. What could be more natural!

There's an easy way to start............ substitute dinner party snacks (chips, peanuts, etc) with this Superfood Trail Mix - courtesy of Peter and Beryn's book.

Walk to your local health shop and purchase the following;

- goji berries
- cacao nibs
- raisins
- brazil nuts
- sunflower seeds
- pumpkin seeds

Measure one cup of each and mix well. Store in a glass container and enjoy a handful when you feel nibbly - you will be surprised how good it tastes.

The above power-house ingredients are good for the immune system, give you energy, a good source of Vitamin E, Omega oils and the brazil nuts reduce cancer risk.

Enjoy!

Today I am grateful for;

- my job
- Toffee 'n Shinga
- the sun rising earlier each day
- my friends
- candlelight
- my hair
- jasmine infused green tea

A magic message I received from the Universe (TUT) some time ago;

You know what makes the darkest times bearable, Anita?

Remembering that it's all an illusion - in a dreamed up world - where angels earn their wings - thoughts dress up as things and that 'somewhere back home' you lie safely in bed - in the palm of my hand - snuggled up tight with some big, fluffy stuffed animal.

Nice wings
The Universe

Wisdom card reading (Louise Hay)

I love being me.
I no longer judge or criticize myself.
I am free to love who I am.

May your day be wicked!

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv
xxx