tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20524148598391485362024-03-14T05:21:47.852-07:00Meditative Yoga MomInspiring To Live A Healthy LifeElle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-71657458656123439242012-04-04T12:02:00.001-07:002012-04-04T12:02:26.117-07:00Vegan Rum Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrp68ntHGzIP-3JqbXd-rCRlrez-Qkkz6HtelVO3eWeWNrdMVF3jceOjo4a814SLtlLA_NsMgvJnWJ9fYuaNQQW2lHmvz_gFyNvZH0J1T_2cYPRhIN9dYbX56uSaH2QcC0Qa0EZpEDyg0b/s1600/untitledrum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrp68ntHGzIP-3JqbXd-rCRlrez-Qkkz6HtelVO3eWeWNrdMVF3jceOjo4a814SLtlLA_NsMgvJnWJ9fYuaNQQW2lHmvz_gFyNvZH0J1T_2cYPRhIN9dYbX56uSaH2QcC0Qa0EZpEDyg0b/s200/untitledrum.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My mom has been baking Rum Cake for years and she finally sent me her recipe. This cake is melt in your mouth delicious.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 pkg. of vegan yellow cake mix (I use </span><a href="http://lillabeebaking.com/products/"><em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Lillabee</span></strong></em></a><span style="font-size: large;">)<br />
1 pkg. of instant vanilla pudding<br />
Ener-G egg replacer for 4 eggs<br />
2/3 cups of Extra Light Extra Virgin Olive Oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3/4 cups of water<br />
1 tsp. of vanilla<br />
3 Tbsp. of dark or golden rum</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Glaze:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 cup sugar (I use </span><a href="http://www.intheraw.com/products/"><span style="font-size: large;">Sugar in the Raw</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">)<br />
1/2 cup of water<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
Rum to taste</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Mix all the ingredients together </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. In a large bowl and beat with a wire whisk until batter is smooth. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Spray bundt pan with bakers-spray and pour mixture into pan.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes until cake is golden brown on top and firm to the touch. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5. Remove from oven, cool for 10 minutes, turn out on serving plate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Glaze:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. Combine ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a rolling boil on the stove.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Poke small holes all around top of cake with a fork</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Slowly pour the glaze over the top of the cake. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Serve and Enjoy</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-15462010066321345812012-04-04T06:41:00.004-07:002012-04-04T08:40:30.803-07:00Spring Is A Time For Rebirth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="183" data-width="275" height="183" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQCHoLj9cMkODxmRnD7woA8Bw7pgbxSnTwgiihb6XiH32TgLYH5" style="height: 183px; width: 275px;" width="275" /></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Spring is a beautiful time of year to watch the earth re-new itself. Birds welcome the Spring with their beautiful songs, flowers embrace the warm weather by reaching high and blooming towards the sun, the waters rejoice by flowing freely.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Spring is also a time for personal re-birth, a time for re-newing the soul. There are many ways to honor this glorious season without hurting our fragile enviornment.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I discoverd a wonderful company, </span><a href="http://www.greenfieldpaper.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Green Field Paper Company</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, who creates tree free cards and other products out of hemp. One of the great things about this company is that their cards are embedded with wildflower seeds, so you can plant the card after you read it and watch the flowers grow.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Find a hiking trail where the flowers are blooming and enjoy the fresh air and serenity. Some areas offer wildflower group hikes (search google for groups in your area).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the things I love to do is meditate in nature. I'll go to the beach, or sit in a meadow and encourage stress to leave my body, while welcoming a wave of peace to wash over me.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Visit or volunter at a local animal sanctuary</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pack a picnic and enjoy time with your family</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Practice yoga outside</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Plant a vegetable garden and enjoy it's bounty</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How do you embrace the Spring?</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-83842444268773439532012-03-29T08:47:00.000-07:002012-03-29T08:47:17.804-07:00Cute clothes for my daughter<span style="font-size: large;">I found these cute clothes for my daughter at Target.com</span><br />
<img alt="Circo® Girls Knit Dress" class="tileImage" height="243" jquery1333035600669="216" original="http://Img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/93/13934886_243x243_pad.jpg" src="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/93/13934886_243x243_pad.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="243" /><br />
<img alt="Circo® Girls Denim Jean Scooter With Belt - Dark Wash" class="tileImage" height="243" jquery1333035600669="422" original="http://Img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/92/13924944_243x243_pad.jpg" src="http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/92/13924944_243x243_pad.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="243" /><br />
<img alt="Girl's Cherokee® Fizz Sandal - Pink" class="tileImage" height="243" jquery1333035844297="284" original="http://Img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/77/13779912_243x243_pad.jpg" src="http://img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/77/13779912_243x243_pad.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="243" /><br />
<img alt="Girl's Xhilaration® Feather Sandal - Bronze" class="tileImage" height="243" jquery1333035844297="286" original="http://Img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/78/13784693_243x243_pad.jpg" src="http://img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/78/13784693_243x243_pad.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="243" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="Xhilaration® Girls Tie-Dye Cabbie Hat with Bow - Pink" class="tileImage" height="243" jquery1333035929651="335" original="http://Img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/81/13819227_243x243_pad.jpg" src="http://img3.targetimg3.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/81/13819227_243x243_pad.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="243" />Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-4672565164491813572012-03-29T06:30:00.003-07:002012-03-29T06:35:17.271-07:00My New " Love"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs9W8UvNCiPLizGj_2C5UqDRQ-hIk2hyVPbW3WnCnignfKW8Rkj3SfknyrrSac3dwjDZ6zXwkDko5R0m212pf7UCYhXwPtV2yqxfGKpVir0xpMtSYgxAPnSIW00BmZdaztFYvum_ykeaY/s1600/untitledcruiser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs9W8UvNCiPLizGj_2C5UqDRQ-hIk2hyVPbW3WnCnignfKW8Rkj3SfknyrrSac3dwjDZ6zXwkDko5R0m212pf7UCYhXwPtV2yqxfGKpVir0xpMtSYgxAPnSIW00BmZdaztFYvum_ykeaY/s1600/untitledcruiser.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have been wanting a beach cruiser for quite some time now. Everytime we visit my mother in law in Southern California, I see so many people enjoying their cute cruisers at the beach. Sometimes dreams do come true, because my mother in law (she is the sweetest woman) bought me a pink cruiser. So now I can enjoy riding my new "love" around town (Redding is such a beautiful place) or at the beach. Sometimes I feel so spoiled.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My dear mountain bike, please don't be jealous because we still have plenty of mountains ahead of us.</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-84030129751741620722012-03-29T05:40:00.001-07:002012-03-29T05:41:08.847-07:00Finding Zen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxb5FXdkiOfa3enBWbKhUVkTKxxSLWuQqd3QfKIpm-yPGLhHCjxSq1cVvCs9B2ydqNO2fS6Z0bFSER8yeKv768Hy_sYacmg8R-ZIxmyHwXnZ6dA1Ss6VQwlyJdJSWXT8yg12aHPk4W1kw/s1600/untitledset.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxb5FXdkiOfa3enBWbKhUVkTKxxSLWuQqd3QfKIpm-yPGLhHCjxSq1cVvCs9B2ydqNO2fS6Z0bFSER8yeKv768Hy_sYacmg8R-ZIxmyHwXnZ6dA1Ss6VQwlyJdJSWXT8yg12aHPk4W1kw/s200/untitledset.png" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What do you think of when you look at this picture? Does it invoke a sense calm, a longing for serenity? I love the ocean, it's my favorite place to meditate. For me, there is something special about sitting on the beach, listening to the gentle waves caressing the shore. Watching the sun rise over the ocean clears my mind and body of stress and anxiety, it prepares me for the day ahead.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is your favorite way/place to capture a dose of zen?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-64027940309297470092012-03-29T05:16:00.001-07:002012-03-29T05:17:08.190-07:00Tropical Sunshine Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5gKK3wPCgikmzU_1U6zAQ5GFfNPZRHK1gSe8991NfJgFMQiCCKWhNDbtDsNAU0i7ZL2o-rBX4Z3y8hdenUTKYLsRJ2ScLaTQobO0m59qbCcmAG4vx03cft0Xne1EYs14Iz4DNlUqcOT7/s1600/untitledcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5gKK3wPCgikmzU_1U6zAQ5GFfNPZRHK1gSe8991NfJgFMQiCCKWhNDbtDsNAU0i7ZL2o-rBX4Z3y8hdenUTKYLsRJ2ScLaTQobO0m59qbCcmAG4vx03cft0Xne1EYs14Iz4DNlUqcOT7/s200/untitledcake.png" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, I love Tropical Sunshine Cake and I thought it would be apporpiate to post this recipe with summer on the horizon. I found this cheat cake (a recipe not fully homeade) on verybestbaking.com</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span><br />
<ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 (12 fluid ounce) can NESTLE® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 2 large eggs</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained (juice reserved), divided</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 cup flaked coconut, toasted</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 (7 ounce) can whipped cream</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></ul><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;">Directions</span></div><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="font-size: large;"> PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking pan. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="font-size: large;"> COMBINE cake mix, evaporated milk and eggs in large mixer bowl. Beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup pineapple. Pour batter into prepared baking pan. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="font-size: large;"> BAKE for 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack for 15 minutes. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"><span style="font-size: large;"> COMBINE sugar and 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice in small bowl; mix until smooth. Spread over warm cake, sprinkle with coconut and remaining pineapple. Cool completely before serving. Top with whipped cream, if desired.</span> </span></li>
</ol>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-2464380503875276412012-03-22T09:18:00.002-07:002012-03-22T12:32:25.624-07:00Wardrobe Up<span style="font-size: large;">With the weather warming up, it's time to update your yoga wardrobe. I found some cute additions for my wardrobe.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="ow_productImageSpan" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img class="ow_productImage" src="https://webportal.orderwave.com/yogafit/storeProductImages/24595_180.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="ow_productImageSpan" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://webportal.orderwave.com/yogafit/portal.0?action=viewAllProducts&category=324">Chakra Breathe Tank</a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="ow_productImageSpan" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img class="ow_productImage" src="https://webportal.orderwave.com/yogafit/storeProductImages/24580_180.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="ow_productImageSpan" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://webportal.orderwave.com/yogafit/portal.0?action=viewAllProducts&category=324&s=24">Pure Chakra Yogi Pants</a></span></div>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-13608629730889616062012-03-13T04:41:00.002-07:002012-03-13T05:10:11.759-07:00Savory Pancit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqY7KyN4QKa7vcSTSC0YZAFohTyAqDIrFZb8F9yDzcjbEMWA9um7iHVBkt3CeL4gxBM2qHikcLF-cUqK0KA_u7RtuBFV0ydN-f0ZmNyfiKjbN8HSePzwVf5S0yiLZmm6kahjA0zTAgPY9/s1600/untitledpppp.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqY7KyN4QKa7vcSTSC0YZAFohTyAqDIrFZb8F9yDzcjbEMWA9um7iHVBkt3CeL4gxBM2qHikcLF-cUqK0KA_u7RtuBFV0ydN-f0ZmNyfiKjbN8HSePzwVf5S0yiLZmm6kahjA0zTAgPY9/s200/untitledpppp.png" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love pancit, it is so delicious and my family eats it up. For those of you who don't know Panict is a wonderful filipino dish that can be served hot or cold. For this recipe you can use any meat you have on hand, or you can omit the meat all together.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span><br />
<ul tabindex="-1"><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 (12 ounce) package dried rice noodles</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 teaspoon light extra virgin olive oil</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 onion, finely diced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 3 cloves garlic, minced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 2 cups diced cooked stir fry steak strips</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 4 carrot, thinly sliced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"> 1/2 cup soy sauce</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></ul><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;">Directions</span></div><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="font-size: large;"> Place the rice noodles in a large bowl, and cover with warm water. When soft, drain, and set aside. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break" style="font-size: large;"> Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Saute onion and garlic until soft. Stir in meat, cabbage, carrots and soy sauce. Cook until cabbage begins to soften. Toss in noodles, and cook until heated through, stirring constantly. Transfer pancit to a serving dish and garnish with quartered lemons. </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></ol><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><br />
</div><div style="border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; margin-top: 20px; width: 300px;"></div><div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;"><h3> </h3></div>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-10055199523361955562012-03-08T05:24:00.001-08:002012-03-08T05:25:09.484-08:00Vanilla Cupcakes with Raspberry Buttercream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcN6eUEs5elTftGQU2fPUgi8Fde_UnMSLHGTPBiAb6MMPArpN7HvBoWMQAclVC_r3hgQUIm8JRUWldFn070xfmDSPxBwOzVxe5ybRXuV-kwJbVvlzZ8GXlumGIAHuHVF1yEx3wXNUdtwKF/s1600/untitledcupcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcN6eUEs5elTftGQU2fPUgi8Fde_UnMSLHGTPBiAb6MMPArpN7HvBoWMQAclVC_r3hgQUIm8JRUWldFn070xfmDSPxBwOzVxe5ybRXuV-kwJbVvlzZ8GXlumGIAHuHVF1yEx3wXNUdtwKF/s200/untitledcupcake.png" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This weekend my daughter and I are going to be baking cupcakes. We made this recipe once before and it was melt in your mouth delicious. She chose to make it again.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 c soy milk</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp apple cider vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 1/4 c flour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 tbsp corn starch</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3/4 tsp baking powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp baking soda</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 c light extra virgin olive oil (or vegetable oil)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3/4 c sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 tsp vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350. Fill cupcake pan with liners.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wisk soy milk and vinegar in small bowl. Set aside 10 min to let milk curdle</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In large bowl beat soy milk mixture, oil, vanilla and sugar, set aside</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In med bowl mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder and baking soda</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix well</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fill cupcake liners and bake for 20 min or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cool on wire rack</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Raspberry Buttercream:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 c butter</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 c icing sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp vanilla</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 c fresh or frozen raspberries</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">heavy cream</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cream together butter and vanilla</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add sugar one cup at a time, mix until smooth</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Mash raspberries, drain excess fluids</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Add rapsberry mash to icing and whip until fluffy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If icing is to stiff for piping add heavy cream 1/2 tbsp at a time until desired consistency</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pipe onto cupcakes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This recipe and picture came from </span><a href="http://www.naked-cup-cakes.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Naked Cupcakes,</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> were all things delicious are made.</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-67627548897251346282012-03-06T07:52:00.000-08:002012-03-06T07:52:24.905-08:00My Darling Orchid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7IWOvS17rV6eyHE5eHQMp2WycJuPDayrBDp5YLcnScK5YjEVMNAc_zKQvMc9GEe2m0LoMEGZvD9IgZxSLFYV01XD5eTBQn_YEFcjvKjhpb7QYUMweC9c1xE2-Reh7cTwv7tJQk1xfkrb/s1600/imagesCAEBEAOU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7IWOvS17rV6eyHE5eHQMp2WycJuPDayrBDp5YLcnScK5YjEVMNAc_zKQvMc9GEe2m0LoMEGZvD9IgZxSLFYV01XD5eTBQn_YEFcjvKjhpb7QYUMweC9c1xE2-Reh7cTwv7tJQk1xfkrb/s1600/imagesCAEBEAOU.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">This morning I brought home a new addition to our family. Meet Orchid, she is beautiful, funny and full of energy. She loves going for walks with me and playing in the snow. (now I don't have an excuse to stay inside :)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Since Husky's are great escape artists, my wonderful husband agreed to build her a nice large play area (husky proof), once the ground has thawed. He even offered to build her a big dog house, such a sweet man I married.</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-67747166323291818182012-03-05T15:13:00.002-08:002012-03-05T15:15:15.503-08:00Wildlife<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd8pAaa0eSIqJck9ixJdTksVKxW3whBpLjru_fYR73cOmF_d4pDzOl88iiwZWIu4xvhvfUvpuw5A9vRqFRgZQqqDalHydGnw3k3rNKiW3Q4Sxuwwfluwvg-mDMEveW_guW01PVIw2vmNs/s1600/5281204502_0f7b6d17a9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizd8pAaa0eSIqJck9ixJdTksVKxW3whBpLjru_fYR73cOmF_d4pDzOl88iiwZWIu4xvhvfUvpuw5A9vRqFRgZQqqDalHydGnw3k3rNKiW3Q4Sxuwwfluwvg-mDMEveW_guW01PVIw2vmNs/s200/5281204502_0f7b6d17a9.jpg" width="175" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I managed to take this pic on a treck through the snow this weekend. How lovely. The red fox is my favorite animal and I was able to watch him run into the woods.</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-22375414758157814702012-03-02T10:49:00.002-08:002012-03-02T10:54:50.842-08:00Slow Cooker White Bean and Fennel Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibapfobGz-32c0CGnjjWN_XhyphenhyphenwMGzl0Tm7Ka4VEHVEKO2rjzaJrU3Bu8dfay2n_7zPnpD9WnTmwnqSoebqpEcKvWCjfId7PwCVlntD3wxA-nY0sKff6B8va0ncQ3k_t9O231R1DnhTclWM/s1600/bean_fennel_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibapfobGz-32c0CGnjjWN_XhyphenhyphenwMGzl0Tm7Ka4VEHVEKO2rjzaJrU3Bu8dfay2n_7zPnpD9WnTmwnqSoebqpEcKvWCjfId7PwCVlntD3wxA-nY0sKff6B8va0ncQ3k_t9O231R1DnhTclWM/s200/bean_fennel_soup.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></strong><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">4 cups vegetable broth</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1 medium bulb fennel, sliced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1 medium onion, chopped finely</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1 package frozen spinach, thawed</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">2 cans white kidney beans, drained</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">OR </span><a href="http://www.squawkfox.com/2008/02/19/how-to-soak-and-cook-dried-beans/"><span style="font-size: large;">Soak and cook dried beans</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, about 12 oz</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper</span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></ul><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine vegetable broth, tomatoes, fennel, beans, onion, black pepper, and garlic.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or HIGH for 3 to 3.5 hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3. Add thawed spinach. Cover and cook for 1 hour on high.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I just love this soup, it's healthy and it makes your taste buds sing. I found this recipe a few months ago on </span><a href="http://squawkfox.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">squawkfox.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2052414859839148536.post-39532286186746695142012-03-02T07:42:00.002-08:002012-03-02T08:08:21.604-08:00I'd Rather Be Sitting By The Fire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQFBO6d7HOWcYRtOX5e2YF39RHz6wyyYX_QmwuxSakdA7ePf9-wRkBete-OXupSY5NKPBbyCbT75KWOYJgcAz2_7ACDkgfI5Ee5KB4ehivNwKS2xWQasJDfjCZ0Ckz_6rujKr9ugFD-A5/s1600/winter1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQFBO6d7HOWcYRtOX5e2YF39RHz6wyyYX_QmwuxSakdA7ePf9-wRkBete-OXupSY5NKPBbyCbT75KWOYJgcAz2_7ACDkgfI5Ee5KB4ehivNwKS2xWQasJDfjCZ0Ckz_6rujKr9ugFD-A5/s200/winter1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Winter is a beautiful time of year, but it can make me feel run down and tired. Sometimes it's hard to stay motivated and active.But, I know I must get off my toochie and keep my body moving.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today is one of those days, it's cold and dreary outside and is chilly in the house, despite my layered clothes and the fire going. All I want to do is cuddle up in my comfy blanket and read all day. I'm just not feeling the whole exercise thing at the moment.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So, I came up with a plan. I'll allow myself thirty minutes of reading time by the fire this morning, then I'll make a steaming cup of green tea, throw on my snow boots and head towards our frozen pond. I'll bring my camera in the hopes of seeing some kind of wild life out and about. Then I'll walk home and reward myself with a bowl of homemade white bean soup I have simmering in the crockpot.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Taking walks in the cold and snow always invigorates me and prepares me for my daily routine. I love going for walks on our property and taking pictures.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How do you movitate yourself during the long winter months?</span>Elle Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15081930177123952383noreply@blogger.com2