tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76250912546700481092024-03-15T13:30:32.938-04:00CLEAN FREAKIDEAS, RECIPES, & TIPS FOR CLEAN EATINGCLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-37550123219796342632018-01-13T18:15:00.003-05:002018-01-13T18:15:50.933-05:00<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wanted to thank y'all for following me all these years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those of you that aren't on Facebook, I wanted to let you know I will no longer be posting to this blog. I recently rebranded myself to Southern Healthy Kitchen since moving to the Carolinas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My new blog address is <a href="http://www.southernhealthykitchen.com/">www.SouthernHealthyKitchen.com</a>. If you haven't liked me on Facebook please do. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/southernhealthykitchen">www.facebook.com/southernhealthykitchen</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks again,<br />Angie</span>CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-22841651877182102802016-10-07T16:00:00.004-04:002016-10-07T16:00:59.544-04:00Be the CHANGE<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="aalod" data-offset-key="6tdbr-0-0" style="background-color: white; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
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<span data-offset-key="6tdbr-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">I am a true believer in the fact that if you want change for the next generation you must</span><b><span style="color: #1d2129;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47;">BE THE CHANGE</span></b><span style="color: #1d2129;">. You can't just sit around and complain. You must DO. You must ACT. You must step out of your comfort zone. After a week or so into school my son was bringing home crap candy filled with dyes, sugar, and God knows what else as a reward for good behavior (and they were coming often) that other parents donated.</span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="3ojc9-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">I could have just said no, "you aren't getting to eat that" and give him cleaner options, BUT that isn't fair to him or to all the other kids if I am truly going to pay it forward, teach what I preach. Instead I told him he can have this first sucker (and boy was it nasty looking to me) this one time and I will contact your teacher to get a plan in place moving forward. He was fine with that.</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4gth9-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">His teacher is new this year to the school and she was very welcoming to my concerns and ideas. Praise the Lord! </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4gth9-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">I purchased some organic candy and cheap toys to add to the box that my son and friends could pick from. I also suggested some other ideas I was willing to help with and she was already thinking on the same track. One in which was a dance party for kids that received enough "stars" to attend at the end of the month. And so the collection of stars began.</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4gth9-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">I am more than excited to announce we are having our first </span><span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>Dance Party</b> </span><span style="color: #1d2129;">next week. We will have party lights, we will have glow sticks, we will have super rad dancing, and we will have a healthy snack too! This not only will be great exercise for the kiddos (and me), but this will empower them (and hopefully by hearing about this it will impact those that didn't get to go this month) to be better, to do better, to want better for themselves. And yes, even in 2nd grade!</span></span></div>
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We also have a new principal this year which I really like. She is full of zest and enthusiasm. I am excited to hear that after the teacher contacted her about what will be happening (we were kinda nervous) she asked to come and be involved. Please say a prayer that this can be a change for our elementary school system. The kids are very excited for this event and who am I kidding, I am SUPER excited too!</div>
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Also, I met a new mom friend this week that works for Eat Smart, Move More of York County (and is running for school board this year) and she wants to attend too. </div>
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I feel truly blessed to be alive and well and making a positive impact on the children in my county.</div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-49224174336552920272016-01-09T14:12:00.004-05:002016-01-09T14:34:54.281-05:00Eating Out<div class="_45m_ _2vxa" data-block="true" data-offset-key="82it5-0-0" style="direction: ltr; position: relative;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Aussie Cheese Fries</span></b></div>
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<span data-offset-key="cmajb-0-0">Back in college I worked at Outback. I used to be obsessed with the Aussie Cheese Fries. I would always feel physically ill about 30 minutes after eating them. So much so I haven't visited an Outback in about 10 years. I gave that place up way beforing cleaning up my diet. I can't find anywhere the ingredients of what's in the fries, but it can't be good!</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="csaq-0-0">Outback is so NOT a healthy choice when eating out. I'm not saying you can't go there and get a healthy meal, but you will have to ask for a lot of things to be removed and ask a lot of questions. Many people aren't willing to do that. And, let's face it..you won't be eating Aussie Cheese Fries, Bloomin' Onion or 3 loaves of bread....that is unless you plan to split it 8 ways. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="45iti-0-0">Outback has even reduced the fat since they first came out. Can you imagine it being even worse???</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="ap6hi-0-0">One of the best things you can do for your health is to give up eating out at chain restaurants (that goes for Fast Food too!) on a regular basis. It's a sure fire way for you to gain weight and feel the bloat. If you have any diseases, the sodium is off the charges and it's causing loads and loads of inflammation. None of us want or need added inflammation-it's painful!</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="86hhe-0-0">A few others I won't bother going to and wasting money on are: Applebee's, Chli's, and Ruby Tuesday's. Many of these chain restaurants just reheat frozen food. If you want that, just go to the grocery store and make it yourself and save money AND read the ingredients. Most have their food in the grocery store because it's that easy to produce for the masses!</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="fi6o8-0-0">When I eat out I usually order what I want and don't stress over getting something "light". That's because I don't eat out that often normally. With that being said, after moving South I tried many local places and ate way more than I normally would out. Hello fried foods! Of course, my body can't lie about that ! I am more bloated, I am probably heavier, and I know my waist is bigger. But, I am not fretting! I know it will all go back to where it was 6-12 months ago because I stay the course. This is a LIFESTYLE for me. I only eat healthy whole foods at home. Listen to your body! It doesn't lie. If you are in pain, make changes. If you are feeling bloated, make changes. If you are feeling fatique, make changes. If you need to lose weight, make changes. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="b6pkn-0-0">You are in control of YOUR life. Only you can decide where to drive your car to dine. Plan ahead. Make your own cheese fries at home with potoates, high quality cheese and local bacon. You can then control the salt and fat! I find it interesting Sodium isn't listed on Outback's chart. I bet it's off the charts! You should also eat foods rich in natural fiber, almost zero in the fries (yes, I know it's junk food but just noting it)</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="5dabd-0-0">I don't count calories (I have in the past and it never worked long term). I will never count calories again. Period.</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="5e8s0-0-0"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Well, let's just say it and get it overwith....Outback Aussie Cheesefries has </span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">121.85</span></b><span style="font-size: 14px;"> grams of <b>FAT</b>! Holy SMOKES! That is beyond terrible for you. And nearly <b>55</b>g of Saturated Fat. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2q3ue-0-0">Can you really eat them now after knowing that? If the answer is yes, it's time to dig deep as to why you are willing to eat them. Figure out why you choose to overeat on a regular basis and damage you body. You are worth more than that. If this is your "hobby" (eating out), find a new one. Walk with a friend. Volunteer your time somewhere to stay active. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="dgaui-0-0"><i>From www.heart.org:</i></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="al3vk-0-0"><b>What's my daily limit for foods with saturated fats?</b></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="75l41-0-0"><i>The American Heart Association recommends aiming for a dietary pattern that achieves 5% to 6% of calories from saturated fat. That means, for example, if you need about 2,000 calories a day, no more than 120 of them should come from saturated fats. That’s about <b>13</b> grams of saturated fats a day.</i></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="22k6f-0-0">TIP: Find LOCALLY owned and operated restaurants. They stand behind their food and it's usually their passion to present a beautiful delicious plate to you. Many source local ingredients as well. Ask questions, I can't stress this enough. Ask what is made from scratch at the restaurant. Most times they will be delighted to brag about what is made fresh daily. Order those items over others. It's your money. It's your body. ASK!</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-15750773968660982432015-11-25T11:02:00.002-05:002015-11-25T11:02:34.645-05:00Green Bean Casserole<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Green bean casserole is a favorite of my husband and now is one of mine since making it more from scratch and adding in mushrooms, onions, etc. I have made the recipe from 100 Days of Real Food and it was good, but I like to save on time when I can. Especially when I am making the whole feast! So this year I am using Onion Strings from Trader Joe's.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5A4d9BsP4jgxyEiTOtVXHJjnthmM8RbsrsBZGPLK64nBEkkXFKVr2ZYzEe49HSKdXRYfk_qQtVXv0vPz6s0Q5Wc6kzdIFQiqduqmHY6OgMlvRA_XZkhYETuRFxMeRuJi6zPc06dAc_VQ/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5A4d9BsP4jgxyEiTOtVXHJjnthmM8RbsrsBZGPLK64nBEkkXFKVr2ZYzEe49HSKdXRYfk_qQtVXv0vPz6s0Q5Wc6kzdIFQiqduqmHY6OgMlvRA_XZkhYETuRFxMeRuJi6zPc06dAc_VQ/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Grean Bean Casserole</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(prepped and ready to bake)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Tbsp Organic EVOO</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Tbps Grass-fed Butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 small container of button mushrooms (or a type of your choosing)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 cup sweet onion diced (or shallot)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">minced garlic (2-3 cloves)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Tpsp Soy Sauce or Tamari Sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 carton of Pacific Condensed Mushroom or Trader Joe's Brand </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sea Salt, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pepper, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4-6 cups of Organic frozen or fresh green beans</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trader Joe's Fried Onion Pieces or you can make your own. (Find out how here: <a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/11/12/recipe-green-bean-casserole-french-fried-onions/">French Fried Onions</a> )</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Tbsp Thyme -optional</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1) Add EVOO to pan and saute garlic, mushrooms and onions under tender over medium heat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2) Add soy sauce, water, condensed mushroom and butter and reduce heat. Stir until butter has melted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3) In a casserole dish add the green beans (Mine were long so I had to break in half), add the mixture and stir well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4) Add onion pieces to the top right before baking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5) Bake at 325 for 20-25 minutes until green beans are tender. (It make take longer)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>NOTE:</b> I am not precooking my greens beans like many recipes say to do. I will report back, but I am confident they will be fine cooking at a lower temp for a longer time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can also raise the temp for the last 5 minutes to help get the onion pieces nice and crispy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt and Pepper to taste.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy!</span></div>
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<br />CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-83120109491552052252015-01-27T08:16:00.000-05:002015-02-26T09:51:46.922-05:00Pecan Pie Granola Cereal<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have you seen the price tag on clean granola cereal? It's not cheap and you can't control how it's sweetened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, the good news is, you can make your own at home for a fraction of the cost! This recipe is so simple a child can make it! My daughter helped me make our first batch but she will be making it on her own next time.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51yaOtjcgk06GSsNeMN-2uDJFlfJnScpFf7QUk-3FtrjukwS9VSyc7AR8ikdM7NY3ZCG-BE4_F-WIGO42109xnKafSeKn0ix7cdhEP-Y1jlJmKGmWZi-rmAJL_MVWEwcux4W7T1lL2AU/s1600/10420019_906428742743342_106114410538002378_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51yaOtjcgk06GSsNeMN-2uDJFlfJnScpFf7QUk-3FtrjukwS9VSyc7AR8ikdM7NY3ZCG-BE4_F-WIGO42109xnKafSeKn0ix7cdhEP-Y1jlJmKGmWZi-rmAJL_MVWEwcux4W7T1lL2AU/s1600/10420019_906428742743342_106114410538002378_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pecan Pie Granola Cere</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">al</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 cups Old Fashioned oats</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 Tbps Coconut Sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4-1 tsp cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup raw pecans (no oils added), chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/3 cup honey (local is best choice) or use Pure Maple Syrup</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-2 tsp pure vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 cup organic unrefined coconut oil, melted</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Preheat oven to 325 degrees </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Add the top 5 ingredients to a large bowl and mix well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Add honey, vanilla and coconut oil to a small bowl and mix well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Add the wet to the dry and mix (we used our hands) until evenly coated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Spread evenly on a baking pan. Bake for about 20-30 min, stirring every 10 min. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">NOTE: It will harden as it cools. Eat it dry or pour some UNSWEETENED coconut milk or almond milk on it. It's delicious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enjoy. </span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-51986560021180166852015-01-13T08:55:00.004-05:002015-01-13T08:55:57.700-05:002014 {a year in review} : Take a Risk.<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Happy New Year!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every year I make time to sit down and write a year in review. A lot can change in 12 months! I'll bet when I read this in January 2016 a lot more has changed in my life. I suggest you do the same and reflect back each year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have always heard this saying (below) and I bet you have too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_d9GLYmPdf-pCLmINuRy-ww4qqRLXI8rQLRsYnKrg2jzRrqZPZ-G_mFfSNcIl1Do7liDcBT3Kkv2gphspAW_otc9rGRF4hCUD6cJXSYPhvtA0NopUs4zxeBczBlXfCODqS8lOGjg_Ak/s1600/without-risk-there-s-no-reward.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_d9GLYmPdf-pCLmINuRy-ww4qqRLXI8rQLRsYnKrg2jzRrqZPZ-G_mFfSNcIl1Do7liDcBT3Kkv2gphspAW_otc9rGRF4hCUD6cJXSYPhvtA0NopUs4zxeBczBlXfCODqS8lOGjg_Ak/s1600/without-risk-there-s-no-reward.png" height="320" width="274" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But, did I ever truly take the risks I felt I should be taking? Four years ago I went all into EATING CLEAN and the rewards were GREAT, so GREAT! I am still living, breathing and experiencing those rewards. But, there was one thing I always wanted to do that I never did (never ever did): move to warmer weather and leave Indiana. I let fear, the unknown and the "what ifs" keep me on the "shore" (or should I say, in the "cornfields"). Not to mention all the "work" to relocate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I have ALWAYS hated the Indiana winters. The seasonal depression. The limitations Indiana winters bring. The mood and funk it puts me in. The complaining and crankiness it brings out in people around you. The shoveling snow. The painfully cold temps. The lack of sunshine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, after a record snowfall for the season 2013-2014 (Dec-Jan-Feb) of 51.6" of SNOW, we had enough. I think a part of me died that winter. Seriously. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We, as a family, decided (in July) it was time to risk it all. Select a place to live we hoped to be happier living in with more sunshine! Closer to a beach, closer to mountains and let's get to the important things...close to a Costco and Super Target! With that decision came loads and loads of research. After we landed on an area (near Charlotte), my husband began the (what seemed impossible) job search. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I did have <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span>, it was dim at times, but I had it. I had <span style="font-size: large;">faith</span> in God that he would lead me to where we should be if it was his will. Without my faith in God, I wouldn't be where I am today. We experienced so many emotions to get where I am today: Lake Wylie, SC. , but it was worth it. It's currently 30 degrees warmer than Indiana. Enough said. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-iEWB358HTv6wXe2N5oo608HWmB7JVT1TBIvrgDBgI5lnwOoCE6iQBshZVVEpv6bPz-uyzphWHRzsWSm25x1A9cV4rPFpdWidRbTIBUJGK1JgsmKNvoz6nFD0RTW5Dz2K5cI9_KFVWg/s1600/bearisktaker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-iEWB358HTv6wXe2N5oo608HWmB7JVT1TBIvrgDBgI5lnwOoCE6iQBshZVVEpv6bPz-uyzphWHRzsWSm25x1A9cV4rPFpdWidRbTIBUJGK1JgsmKNvoz6nFD0RTW5Dz2K5cI9_KFVWg/s1600/bearisktaker.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have had that breakthrough at almost 40 years of age. It's NEVER too late to take a risk to be happier.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I challenge you to look at your life and evaluate your happiness level. You deserve to be happy. <span style="font-size: large;">Risk something.</span> Risk people judging you for your new wacky food choices....risk your family being upset with you that you will no longer be nearby....risk going into a new challenge without knowing how it will change you....risk letting go of the comfortable ....risk moving away from your rock, your best friend....simply risk something!, because without doing so you may not experience some of the greatest rewards life has to offer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>~Paulo Coelho</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>~John F. Kennedy</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>If you take no risks, you will suffer no defeats. But if you take no risks, you win no victories.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>~Richard M. Nixon</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><div>
A ship is always safe at the shore - but that is NOT what it is built for.</div>
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~ Albert Einstein</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEBycZNyApd8DfoyTDW1CK7jC-I2lfEgIOBkr80vFX1xS4e3CsHdfTX3EC484vPbDJTuzJLV7UCzyxVrbXEtqs9l3TKViO1QvNBUsW7lFkS2vdraTEf7vP5paRjboabVHrBMNMeGvWUE/s1600/movtivation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEBycZNyApd8DfoyTDW1CK7jC-I2lfEgIOBkr80vFX1xS4e3CsHdfTX3EC484vPbDJTuzJLV7UCzyxVrbXEtqs9l3TKViO1QvNBUsW7lFkS2vdraTEf7vP5paRjboabVHrBMNMeGvWUE/s1600/movtivation.jpg" height="400" width="309" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you ever wondered it weather impacts your mood, it does. I am so much happier here. My kids are happier. They love their new school. They have met new friends. I have met new friends. I hear birds chirping in January! We have been enjoying the sunshine (and even the rain compared to snow). I will blog more down the road on the differences I have experienced moving from IN to SC. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I reflect back on my 2014 I am grateful for my health. My husband and my kid's health too. I am grateful I am alive and well. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am grateful our families stayed positive during this HUGE decision to relocate. This is a big change for them as well and even though they would prefer us closer, they want us happy! We all take different paths in life and they don't always lead us to the same physical destination.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am STILL grateful for making the change in 2010 to completely overhaul my life and my family's life. I have told you many times I think I was living in a processed food "fog" for years. Eating Clean gives me clarity and perhaps more courage. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho69NEUWAJ2fS8VousAve_ThA9pIJhDqZrGKTPYaJZ2n3oGOlyjvEowRGbjKWbURq_lF1Pn2b7keUyuWJjuo0w_Sk5AguvxHEJlHMsEDm6Yx7HInyx-t-es3_oLy1LFjeM7DZiSj-IAeI/s1600/no_risk_no_reward-300x278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho69NEUWAJ2fS8VousAve_ThA9pIJhDqZrGKTPYaJZ2n3oGOlyjvEowRGbjKWbURq_lF1Pn2b7keUyuWJjuo0w_Sk5AguvxHEJlHMsEDm6Yx7HInyx-t-es3_oLy1LFjeM7DZiSj-IAeI/s1600/no_risk_no_reward-300x278.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Taking a risk in your life may just be what you need, read </span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/stacia-pierce/why-taking-risks-comes-wi_b_4235351.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Why Taking Risks Comes Great Rewards</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't let a world of processed food weigh you down from being the best you that you can be. Eat clean. You deserve to feel awesome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have a splendid 2015. I'm going to try to!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I look forward to sharing all my new adventures with you all! xo Angie</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-68868680955835195652014-08-10T16:58:00.002-04:002014-08-11T08:05:43.097-04:00My Grandma <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of our guest Pastors for the summer gave a sermon on treating everyone as if they are God's masterpieces. Everyone. Don't push people to the sidelines just because you aren't like them. Get to know them. Hear their story and how they got to "today". Don't judge them on what you see in the here and now. We all have a story. Some stories are more like fairy tales and some aren't so easy to hear.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2i4V_y3fi2mWLfCMXqtKokXufZ4aWV3JgtDxVrM7WYrFwxhdmVQiz-hCzPZktD2VZyQTXnLZBfE5W2ogg7Bluyd_veGFlODEHYhzA3DRDQWKfgfn0mDwGtbdxDCI7Kt6vncXFafW2pw/s1600/gram1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2i4V_y3fi2mWLfCMXqtKokXufZ4aWV3JgtDxVrM7WYrFwxhdmVQiz-hCzPZktD2VZyQTXnLZBfE5W2ogg7Bluyd_veGFlODEHYhzA3DRDQWKfgfn0mDwGtbdxDCI7Kt6vncXFafW2pw/s1600/gram1.JPG" height="257" width="320" /></a></div>
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(that's me on the left)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I spent a great deal of time getting to know my 83 year old grandma this weekend on a personal level...talking...looking at pictures...and more talking as we stayed two nights with her in her tiny 2 bedroom home out in the country. She literally only had a good 18" x 24" space to prep food. Even with that lack of space she made me delicious vegetable soup. She doesn't use a cutting board, she cuts it all by hand without even touching the countertops. Impressive. And she gives her rinds and scraps to the raccoons </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">that visit her property at night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She would tell me stories of how her and the kids had very little money for food and some times they even ate just plain macaroni pasta because they couldn't afford anything else. I am beyond grateful I can provide my children with real whole food and a rather endless supply of it! For many years they didn't have plumbing in the house, which I'm guessing that anyone reading this has plumbing. Be grateful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I won't say it was easy to live in a VERY little kitchen for around 48 hours. BUT I learned a lot. I must get a lot of my frugal traits from my gram (and dad). I don't like to waste! I am grateful always for money to go into ANY grocery store and purchase food for my family. Lots of food.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can't stress enough how important it is to grasp the fact that many of you reading this have more than most. Way more. You have access to read this message. You probably have electricity to cook a good meal. You probably have a working stove and fridge. If you do, be grateful and don't let these luxuries go to waste. Cook meals for your family or yourself. Eating real food is a blessing. Stop spending money on restaurants that don't have your best interest at heart. Don't let food go to waste. Be frugal!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't settle for crappy food if you don't have to! Drive a cheaper car if you have to. Buy cheaper clothes. Live in a smaller house. Do whatever you have to do because one day you could wake up with a load of regrets as your health starts to decline rapidly. I am so grateful for my health I have today. I pray that I have great health for many years to come, but it's not guaranteed. I just want to look back and know I tried my best.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do your best. Learn often. Eat clean. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">xo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Angie</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1snNjW0rJ3E1K_vxOeZXI_rncm_Bfu0iVM6um3PthLMpjOD-MzBG5on5J4qaE0TeaSl_bGmLzwdsK5FAd-Ls2EPCBcqt-r-hI1lciGMRXKAWfbLiBqhvWWMad-urEv0apkStGRxbIgjE/s1600/gram2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1snNjW0rJ3E1K_vxOeZXI_rncm_Bfu0iVM6um3PthLMpjOD-MzBG5on5J4qaE0TeaSl_bGmLzwdsK5FAd-Ls2EPCBcqt-r-hI1lciGMRXKAWfbLiBqhvWWMad-urEv0apkStGRxbIgjE/s1600/gram2.JPG" height="307" width="320" /></a></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-91453157945054428842014-07-09T19:34:00.004-04:002014-07-09T19:34:56.685-04:00Dairy Free Spinach Artichoke Dip<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've got some good news and some great news for ya. The good news... I have a dip for you that is so delicious. The GREAT news... it's dairy free! And I don't even miss the dairy. True Story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Give this a try. Even if you "hate" cashews.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PMm9WHyjMx5T6l2k7vcz-1xHLT0xkPgYTRNXAMchx790ELqfiudDB2Qq-u98oyjGQ2rEHcb9ArBX6HoNImVerYcvUBjWJGJrpXvXkXMFOoqj-W1cyMgVqHh2O7odHfJSPjdfIG4aw0U/s1600/dip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PMm9WHyjMx5T6l2k7vcz-1xHLT0xkPgYTRNXAMchx790ELqfiudDB2Qq-u98oyjGQ2rEHcb9ArBX6HoNImVerYcvUBjWJGJrpXvXkXMFOoqj-W1cyMgVqHh2O7odHfJSPjdfIG4aw0U/s1600/dip.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Dairy Free Spinach Artichoke Dip</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">approx. 5 oz Organic Spinach (rough chopped, more so if you don't plan to throw it in the blender)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 small sweet onion (chopped, I use my <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/shop/5200-Getting-Started.aspx"><span style="color: orange;">Vitamix</span></a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3-4 garlic cloves minced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tbps Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 1/2 tsp sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp black pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp cayenne pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp garlic powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tsp onion powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 tsp dijon mustard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Tbps lemon juice (approx one lemon)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 jar of marinated artichoke hearts (approx 12-15oz), chopped.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-1 1/2 cup of cashew cream*</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Saute the spinach, onions, garlic and EVOO in a pan until spinach has wilted nicely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Add in the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dijon mustard, lemon juice and artichoke hearts. Stir.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Add in the cashew cream and stir until combined.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Eat cold or bake at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes. I love it warm straight from the oven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTE: </b> I use my Vitamix to make this. After I have made the cashew cream I add in all the stuff from the oven pan (which I don't bother chopping my spinach much or the artichoke hearts because the Vitamix will do that) I coarsely chop on #4 until it's the consistency I like. Then I pour directly into oven dish. So simple!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>*Cashew Cream:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Soak 3/4-1 cup of cashew in enough filtered water to cover them for AT LEAST 2 hours or overnight (especially if you don't have high speed blender they will need to soak longer).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Drain and rinse and add to blender with 1/2 cup of filtered water. Blend on high until it's smooth and creamy. You can add more if you need to to get it to the creamy consistency. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ENJOY!</span></div>
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<br />CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-39561851213026428982014-07-08T10:04:00.002-04:002015-02-02T11:44:48.794-05:00Carrot Cake Muffins<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My daughter and I created these together. We think they turned out great. If you are gluten free you could try making these will oat flour. Or a mix of your two favorite gluten free flours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They turned out very moist which is great when working with wheat flour. This is a GREAT way to get some veggies in your morning or on the go! Plus, coconut oil is said to help reduce appetite. Win Win!</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Carrot Cake Muffins</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Makes 12-18 muffins</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 cups white whole wheat flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup coconut sugar (I like to grind mine in the <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/shop/5200-Getting-Started.aspx"><span style="color: orange;">Vitamix</span></a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tbps cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 tsp baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tsp baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp sea salt </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tbps pure vanilla extract (read the ingredients not the front label)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup raw pecans</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6 dates (if you don't have these, then add more coconut sugar by 1/4-1/2 cup)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup pure pineapple juice (or you could just grind pineapple into a liquid in your Vitamix)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4 cup Organic Coconut Oil, unrefined. (My favorite is </span><a href="http://www.barleans.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: orange;">Barlean's</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> but I often use Costco Organic due to budget and the amount we go through)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 cups grated carrots (I chopped mine in the Vitamix instead)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Preheat the oven to 350.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Mix the flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder and sea salt in a bowl. Set aside. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Add pineapple juice, pecans, vanilla and dates to high speed blender (I'm obsessed with my <a href="https://www.vitamix.com/shop/5200-Getting-Started.aspx"><span style="color: orange;">Vitamix</span></a>) and blend until smooth. You can leave it chunkier if you wish but my kids don't care for nuts in their muffins so I hide them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Whisk the eggs together and gradually add in the coconut oil (You will need to melt the coconut oil, but don't get it too warm and cook the eggs)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Add items from steps 2 and 3 to the bowl in step 1. Mix until incorporated.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) Fold in the carrots.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Scoop into muffin tins and bake for 15-20 minutes (until toothpick comes out clean)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">NOTES: When using whole wheat flour you need to move quickly, so don't make it and walk away. Or forget you are even baking muffins in the first place. It will lead to firm muffins. You need to scoop it right after it is mixed. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My baking isn't rocket science. If it isn't easy, them I'm not doing it! With that being said, if you don't have coconut sugar you could use raw cane sugar instead. You could even try honey instead of coconut sugar (which is a great choice). It's all about finding what you want to sweeten the muffins with that is considered clean. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also, keep in mind my family is off refined sugar. This muffins are plenty sweet to us but that may not be the case for someone just starting to {eat clean}. You can always add more dates to help sweeten and get more fiber in the process. Everyone needs a little more fiber in their life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ENJOY!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-45268577601484767992014-07-07T14:17:00.001-04:002014-07-07T14:17:46.803-04:00Canola Oil {why to avoid it}<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A fellow Clean Freak brought up the point of Canola Oil containing GMOs. I thought I would make sure you all know this fact and other reasons why you should avoid it. Choosing the right oil is very important when eating clean and working towards optimal health.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFi5jM-ZMoSTQmICUALXVXCUYPGNeCj47njLLrN5GsUygAWvMKTd3Ex_ueuRSOQac5Geh0NhzGy4az6Tr1JUEUQXDpnAEYabtsKqWg-GxOt8-1y1UO7vLfGvmZ5g9qOZiEgRV_0B9JElw/s1600/canola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFi5jM-ZMoSTQmICUALXVXCUYPGNeCj47njLLrN5GsUygAWvMKTd3Ex_ueuRSOQac5Geh0NhzGy4az6Tr1JUEUQXDpnAEYabtsKqWg-GxOt8-1y1UO7vLfGvmZ5g9qOZiEgRV_0B9JElw/s1600/canola.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Let's start off with this...Canola Oil = BAD FAT</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Olive oil comes from olives, Coconut oil comes from coconuts, and canola oil...comes from...well, it's derived from the rapeseed plant and then genetically modified.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In 1956, when it was still called rapeseed oil the FDA banned the produced because it was too toxic for human consumption. Years later in the 1970s they lowered the toxic erucic acid and introduced it as Canola Oil. Canola oil is coined from "Canadian oil, low acid". That's right, it's a Canadian invention!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Read more here: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://draxe.com/canola-oil-gm/" style="color: orange;">Stop Using Canola Oil</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and here's another link:</span><br />
<a href="http://foodbabe.com/2012/12/28/birke-reports-dont-let-organic-cooking-oils-fool-you/#more-10685"><span style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't Let Organic Cooking Oils Fool You</span></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just make sure you read up and know the facts! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-3148972291956982332014-03-11T19:08:00.002-04:002014-03-11T19:10:35.677-04:00{gluten free & dairy free} Clean Brownies<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have only made this recipe in mini bite size Silicone molds. It was a huge hit and they are perfect for fitting into the kid's Planetbox lunch system.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This recipe is sweetened only with dates and coconut sugar.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJynR2b7Se2MmlXlThqKAIjRIzSsyVuqUpgproKWFXLBa0MChTNZrgjMuG8SSJZK1n6JDPsvIvTcgXrv4lcV5TuSntRwtMI7hbxnMUAJ0iiaT6x7Yovsxx1Xo7Bjy3PQWsPjvRfqcrbk/s1600/1958346_720071371379081_238628677_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJynR2b7Se2MmlXlThqKAIjRIzSsyVuqUpgproKWFXLBa0MChTNZrgjMuG8SSJZK1n6JDPsvIvTcgXrv4lcV5TuSntRwtMI7hbxnMUAJ0iiaT6x7Yovsxx1Xo7Bjy3PQWsPjvRfqcrbk/s1600/1958346_720071371379081_238628677_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">{gluten free & dairy free} Clean Brownies</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 cup Organic (cold pressed) Coconut Oil (I love <a href="http://www.barleans.com/coconut_oil.asp"><span style="color: orange;">Barlean's</span></a>), melted</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup Water + 12 pitted dates (blended in Vitamix until creamy)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/3 cup Organic Coconut Sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tsp pure vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (I recommend Ghirardelli)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup Millet Flour</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Optional:</b> I added 5 mini <i>Enjoy Life</i> dairy free chocolates on top of each before baking. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Directions:</b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>1) </b>Mix coconut oil, "date water", 2 eggs, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl.</span></div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) </b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In a small bowl mix the cocoa powder, baking powder, sea salt, and millet flour.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>3) </b>Add the dry to the wet and mix well.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>4)</b> Add batter to whatever baking dish you will be using (spray with oil). I'm guessing 9 x 9 pan if you are going a full pan brownie route. I will have to update that later if I try it. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>5)</b> Bake at 350 until toothpick comes out clean. Approx 13-18 minutes.</span></div>
CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-54554389696054678352014-02-11T17:10:00.002-05:002014-02-11T17:10:33.918-05:00Dairy Free Cinnamon Rolls<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have yet to come up with an icing for this but I wanted to get it posted for you. My kids both liked them without icing, but, of course, love icing (aka more sugar) and would LOVE it even more then. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisB-4Q9otgmeiCoXJmf1Id2kUJnFju0qmit76qRnDdhcRRmP4AfUjCFGVuVDSumeltUv9Aie79xvPDUt-S-xQd9I8PYwUUxh_9A0FAwiNZDl4fQy_1lQIFy2DMAXZerXdzkA6go5HsQsM/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisB-4Q9otgmeiCoXJmf1Id2kUJnFju0qmit76qRnDdhcRRmP4AfUjCFGVuVDSumeltUv9Aie79xvPDUt-S-xQd9I8PYwUUxh_9A0FAwiNZDl4fQy_1lQIFy2DMAXZerXdzkA6go5HsQsM/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Dairy Free Cinnamon Rolls</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 cup powdered cane sugar (or try regular cane sugar)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3-5 Tbps Coconut Oil (I recommend <a href="http://www.barleans.com/coconut_oil.asp"><span style="color: orange;">Barlean's</span></a>) + a little extra (or use organic butter)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4 Coconut Milk, Vanilla (I used sweetened)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 1/4 tsp yeast</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup coconut sugar (grounded to fine preferred)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Tbps cinnamon</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaGO7Lo_GY_OR6XCc3P5sYRB_b4wZ6puvFOJBcIhVwByUT_pn6R3PRHy1wHQ2l-hFEBW68ly2Y87znKJd6LTvvr4qapeIAxTwquGsL2WNRIReaxMk4vMuhPFzHZffAvD1qL-hFhL0f_rg/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaGO7Lo_GY_OR6XCc3P5sYRB_b4wZ6puvFOJBcIhVwByUT_pn6R3PRHy1wHQ2l-hFEBW68ly2Y87znKJd6LTvvr4qapeIAxTwquGsL2WNRIReaxMk4vMuhPFzHZffAvD1qL-hFhL0f_rg/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Add flour, sugar, salt and coconut oil to a bowl and combine. (I melted my coconut oil first)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Heat the 3/4 cup of coconut milk for 45 seconds in microwave to reach around 120 degrees. Add vanilla and yeast to milk and let sit for about 2-3 minutes. It will look frothy.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3)Add the wet to the dry. Mix well. Then knead if necessary for a couple of minutes until it can form a ball.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Roll out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick rectangle that is about 12 inches long. (make more out of the scraps, until all is gone)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) Combine the coconut sugar and cinnamon in a Vitamix or any blender (or simple mix by hand without)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Coat the dough with melted coconut oil with your fingers (or brush). Sprinkle heavily with the coconut sugar/cinnamon mixture.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7) Cut long strips in the dough (about 1 inch wide).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8) Roll the strips into a cinnamon roll shape and place on a nonstick pan.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9) Bake at 350 for about 13-15 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">NOTE: I had leftover coconut sugar/cinnamon mixture I will save for another recipe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-18653120404070049872014-02-10T20:12:00.000-05:002014-02-24T16:16:16.098-05:00{clean} Biscuits/Rolls<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is VERY hard to find clean biscuits and rolls out there! I am so glad this recipe I found is both simple and delicious. Give it a try. This would be great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5wadtvGA1PoIu8xekW-voFSVtEGAETPCLgWQvsUw3v7aiFgljitl23vhp8EfqL6DNZYL-XnQ4yA6yuC2NqOdVOB3nIEYTqYl5ZJsudT0Vq6K240BhqC5PyrH8zHGhn-iF_COIhGkJSQ/s1600/1625681_703902002996018_1788412899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5wadtvGA1PoIu8xekW-voFSVtEGAETPCLgWQvsUw3v7aiFgljitl23vhp8EfqL6DNZYL-XnQ4yA6yuC2NqOdVOB3nIEYTqYl5ZJsudT0Vq6K240BhqC5PyrH8zHGhn-iF_COIhGkJSQ/s1600/1625681_703902002996018_1788412899_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">{clean} Biscuits/Rolls</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(adaped from <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/foolproof-dinner-rolls-160671"><span style="color: orange;">www.food.com</span></a>)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup white UNBLEACHED flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup white whole wheat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 cup raw cane sugar*</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 tablespoons coconut oil or 3 tablespoons organic butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 ounce dry yeast (2 l/4 tsp)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4 cup lukewarm water</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<div>
2)In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt and oil, shortening or butter.</div>
<div>
3)Dissolve the yeast in the water and add to flour mixture.</div>
<div>
4)Knead slightly.</div>
<div>
5)Roll out on lightly floured board to 3/4 inch thick.</div>
<div>
6)Cut with a cookie cutter and place on greased baking sheet, cover and let stand for 30 minutes.</div>
<div>
7)Bake in preheated 350 degree oven 10-15 minutes (depending on thickness), until golden.</div>
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTES:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I used powdered sugar made from blending my raw sugar in the Vitamix to a fine powder. I like to keep this on hand now as I think it works AWESOME! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I used butter this time around. I will probably try it with coconut oil at some point. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The picture is what it would look like if you rolled the dough too thin like I did the first time. Still good. Also, I let mine rise about 60 minutes. I had leftover white flour to use up. I need to try this with all white WHOLE wheat and see how they rise and bake. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-85262098357878557832014-01-28T14:56:00.000-05:002014-01-28T14:57:37.219-05:00Cinnamon Baked Donut with Sugar Glaze<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have no idea why I have decided to start making donuts again...but I have! My kids are happy about this new found passion for all things donut!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I found a donut tin at Goodwill a couple years back (I need to keep looking for another one there!) Goodwill is a swell place to find lots of great deals on kitchen tools that need a new home. You can save a lot shopping there and chances are high that a lot of items didn't get much love in their old kitchen before landing themselves on a shelf at Goodwill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As far as donuts go, I am going to call these a WHOLE FOOD treat. It has WHOLE white wheat flour, it has coconut sugar instead of regular sugar, it has a whole pear in the recipe and is dairy free! And I should mention the obvious...it's baked not fried.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, remember I said TREAT, this is not something I recommend you eat daily, but compared to donuts elsewhere there is no comparison to nutrients in this donut! And, in my world, I don't think there is much you should have to live without! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Cinnamon Baked Donut with Sugar Glaze</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Adapted from: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%C2%A0http://joythebaker.com/2013/10/apple-cinnamon-baked-doughnuts-with-brown-butter-glaze/"><span style="color: orange;">JoyTheBaker</span></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Makes 6 donuts</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For the Donuts:</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup white whole wheat flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4 teaspoon baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 teaspoon ground ginger</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/3 cup coconut sugar (see notes)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Tbps Extra Virgin Cold Pressed UNrefined Coconut oil (I recommend<span style="color: orange;"> <a href="http://www.barleans.com/coconut_oil.asp"><span style="color: orange;">Barlean's</span></a></span>), melted</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 large egg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 pear or apple (grated, minced, or pulverized by the Vitamix)</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>For the Glaze:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup coconut sugar (see notes)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">pinch of salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-3 tsp of unsweetened coconut milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Place a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a doughnut pan and set aside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, spices, and coconut sugar. Set aside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) In a smaller bowl whisk together coconut oil, vanilla, milk, pear/apple and egg. Add to dry ingredients.</span></div>
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4)<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Stir together until no flour bits remain and all of the ingredients are well combined. Try not to overmix the batter. That might create rubbery doughnuts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) Use a small spoon to dollop batter into the prepared pan. Smooth out and fill each doughnut in the pan three-quarters full with batter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Place in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and try not to over-bake them. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While the doughnuts cool, make the glaze.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) In a small bowl whisk together the powdered coconut sugar, salt, vanilla and milk. Start out with 1 tsp of milk and add more if needed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once the doughnuts are completely cool, use a butter knife to spread each doughnut with glaze. Allow to rest for 15 minutes in the fridge to harden the glaze. These doughnuts are best serve the day they’re made. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTES: </b>When baking with coconut sugar I like to blend the coconut sugar into a super fine powder in the Vitamix. I am sure a Magic Bullet would work great too! Make sure when melting the Coconut Oil not to over heat because you don't want to be cooking that egg when you add them together. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Coconut sugar</b> is rich in nutrients. It is especially high in potassium, and containing almost 10,300 milligrams per liter of coconut sugar. With the same measurement of milligrams per liter, there are 2,020 milligrams of nitrogen, 790 milligrams of phosphorus, 60 of calcium, 290 of magnesium, 450 of sodium, 4,700 of chlorine, 260 of sulfur and also trace amounts of boron, zinc, manganese, iron and copper</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-4030052952359747672014-01-26T16:48:00.002-05:002014-01-26T16:48:44.821-05:00{clean} Mexican Rice<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cbYpuJwHy__61_9ZHOWLD5bttQAlnYaORVJpq1YBcxPLyD02F0MAc1C81Snm7Xykr55nAgm27Wao-1i6LHF7xUXmbaqu7glKWfOGMB-cFwLUUpHo1XoGJ7A-iR2P3rFFoFV-b5kpGgM/s1600/DSCN1382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cbYpuJwHy__61_9ZHOWLD5bttQAlnYaORVJpq1YBcxPLyD02F0MAc1C81Snm7Xykr55nAgm27Wao-1i6LHF7xUXmbaqu7glKWfOGMB-cFwLUUpHo1XoGJ7A-iR2P3rFFoFV-b5kpGgM/s1600/DSCN1382.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Pork Carnitas from Carmelita's Kitchen (Laguna Beach)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I love Mexican food. It wasn't until I went this past summer to California that I had amazing Mexican food. I can't wait to go back to this little place in Laguna Beach named <a href="http://carmelitaskitchen.com/"><span style="color: orange;">Carmelita's Kitchen</span></a>. It was the best food I have. Ever. And they had the most creative cocktail concoctions as well. Strawberry Jalapeno Margaritas. Yes, please.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ok, I will get to the point. I buy organic brown rice in bulk at Costco. 12 lbs for less than $15 (I need to double check the price, but it's close). Considering organic rice at the grocery store is $5 or more for a small bag, this is a great cost savings. Plus, I don't have to remember to buy rice that often. Winning!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This recipe is simple and we all enjoyed it (except the picky 5 year old). It was made out of what I had on hand which made it super convenient. If you don't have a rice cooker I recommend getting one. It takes practice at first, but then you will not want to make rice without it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">{clean} Mexican Rice</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 cups organic brown rice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4 cups water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tbps <a href="http://www.keylimejuice.com/" style="color: orange;">Nellie and Joe's Famous Key Lime Juice</a> (I get at Kroger)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tsp onion powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tsp smoked paprika</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4 garlic cloves (minced)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4 ounces of tomato paste</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Add all ingredients to rice cooker. Stir. And turn on rice cooker. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTE:</b> All rice cookers are different so you will have to practice knowing the ratio of water:rice. This is a great rice recipe for burritos, tacos, soups, etc. I love Nellie and Joe's Key Lime Juice and use it often. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And the dessert at Carmelita's Kitchen was amazing too! Man, I need to go back to California just for this restaurant alone. We went twice in one week!!!</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-49308557751194062222014-01-26T15:11:00.001-05:002014-01-26T15:11:35.657-05:00The Best Dairy-Free Banana Split Sundae Ever<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is so simple for me to make because I have all these items at home all the time (except the ice cream). But, we may have to change that! ha!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For this recipe I used frozen pineapples and strawberries that I defrosted for a bit prior to making. The frozen pineapple from Costco is amazingly sweet. Highly recommend trying it. Typically in the summer I always have fresh strawberries, but that's not the case in the winter months in Indiana.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Best Dairy-Free Banana Split Sundae Ever</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Banana, ripe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coconut Bliss Dairy Free Ice Cream-Vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Strawberries, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pineapple, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.enjoylifefoods.com/chocolate-for-baking/mini-chips/" style="color: orange;">Enjoy Life</a> Dairy Free mini chips</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Magic Shell Topping (<a href="http://eatcleanfreak.blogspot.com/2014/01/dairy-free-magic-shell-chocolate-topping.html"><span style="color: orange;">recipe</span></a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Raw pecans, chopped</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) In a bowl, slice or chunk a ripe banana. Lay it out nicely. You want your sundae to be pretty.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Scoop one large scoop of Coconut Bliss on your bananas.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Arrange strawberries, and pineapples on ice cream as you wish.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Pour magic shell topping over ice cream.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) Sprinkle Pecans and Chocolate Chips.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Enjoy!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTES:</b> I get the Enjoy Life at Kroger or Earth Fare. The ice cream is at Earth Fare or Whole Foods. Make sure there are no oils in your nuts. You could try making dairy free whipped cream from full fat coconut milk but I only had light on hand and that won't work!</span></div>
CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-32849525784583000452014-01-26T14:57:00.001-05:002014-01-26T14:57:54.189-05:00Dairy-Free Magic Shell Chocolate Topping<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is beyond simple to make and will impress your kids (if you don't have kids, impress yourself)! </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Dairy-Free Magic Shell Chocolate Topping</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">recipe adapted from </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://thecoconutmama.com/2013/06/magic-shell/" style="color: orange;">The Coconut Mama</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 Cup Coconut Oil (I recommend<span style="color: orange;"> <a href="http://www.barleans.com/coconut_oil.asp"><span style="color: orange;">Barlean's</span></a></span>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 Cup Cocoa Powder (I recommend <a href="http://www.ghirardelli.com/store/shop-products/collections/baking-products/unsweetened-cocoa-pouch.html"><span style="color: orange;">Ghirardelli</span></a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 Cup Raw Honey or Maple Syrup</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pinch of Sea Salt</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gently heat the coconut oil, cocoa powder and honey together in a small saucepan over low. Stir until ingredients are melted. Add vanilla and salt and mix. Pour warm magic shell sauce over ice cream or dessert of choice. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator. Reheat over low to reuse.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This recipe makes approximately 1 1/4 cup of magic shell sauce.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>NOTES:</b> I added 1/4 cup Barlean's Silk Chocolate Greens powder (which I buy from Amazon) and 1/4 cup cocoa and it turned out great. I don't plan to store this in the fridge, but plan to keep at room temp and use within a few days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAqKWQUQP85rTIdVdeuUG9Ef-4MeN3BaKUKAW00lTrLoZEB2t24XGf3gFn6tB7yDuz_Kj-3a_RQFPKmA9xna8ZzdDK3h_kBtwHdeYljuGO1d9K5c-q48CLpNz0SuK9qEyRdYungU1-lc/s1600/1554533_694725773913641_1580780476_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAqKWQUQP85rTIdVdeuUG9Ef-4MeN3BaKUKAW00lTrLoZEB2t24XGf3gFn6tB7yDuz_Kj-3a_RQFPKmA9xna8ZzdDK3h_kBtwHdeYljuGO1d9K5c-q48CLpNz0SuK9qEyRdYungU1-lc/s1600/1554533_694725773913641_1580780476_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-75619285255335909612014-01-24T15:39:00.000-05:002014-01-24T15:39:01.889-05:00{dairy free} Chocolate Banana Milkshake<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is my son's favorite drink! If I trusted him to run the Vitamix he could make it himself (he's only 5). That day will come before I know it !</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I typically do not buy things with "natural flavors" , but in this case I make an exception. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Pao6OspL3HF8I-qfJ9Jdqx9mOYKdQeU1laOMvtkDKY1hdcZHB-yd25mvncwTfGoPV1on-u_JUp3jzEDpijcxHmjDONQa412DqoBOnbjN46H_ldNLakAHgxLlzpZv3Fsxw4hDSG52wZc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Pao6OspL3HF8I-qfJ9Jdqx9mOYKdQeU1laOMvtkDKY1hdcZHB-yd25mvncwTfGoPV1on-u_JUp3jzEDpijcxHmjDONQa412DqoBOnbjN46H_ldNLakAHgxLlzpZv3Fsxw4hDSG52wZc/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>{dairy free} Chocolate Banana Milkshake</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 scoop Barlean's Chocolate Silk Greens</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tbps Chia Seeds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-2 frozen bananas</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup (approx) unsweetened coconut milk (vanilla or regular)</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Add all ingredients to a high speed blender (such as a Vitamix) and blend until desired consistency. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-17991518061909308732014-01-20T17:46:00.001-05:002014-01-22T15:00:41.627-05:00Cholesterol Numbers {finally where they need to be}<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember back in August of 2010 when I got my first news my cholesterol numbers weren't great. This all started when I had talked to my family doctor (at the time) and requested I get a physical. I had just lost a friend to Breast Cancer at the age of 34 and I wanted to get on top of my health. I felt like I had let myself down health-wise when I got the news. I mean, I already knew I had weight to lose, but this was a real hit to my self esteem. I had already been off Diet Coke for almost 30 days at that point. I was trying to make a difference.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But, let's be real, I knew I hadn't taken care of myself like I should have. I was told <b>that </b>day I needed to start on a statin drug to get my numbers where they needed to be. The doctor said I could try to make a change in 3 months on my own before deciding and see if the numbers lowered. I happily agreed to try to lower it on my own. I had heard so many bad things about Statin drugs and their potential side effects.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember getting the call of the results of the second or third set of tests (not sure which) and pulling over in a parking lot to write them down. Again the nurse said my doctor wants me to start medications right away. I was in tears at this point. Yes, my triglycerides had dropped by half but the other numbers didn't budge. I felt defeated. Was I making the dumb and irresponsible choice to not go on medications and in turn setting myself up for a heart attack down the road? I had a family! I had two kids! I wanted to make the right decision.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had already consulted with two doctor friends that lived out of state and they both suggested I don't start the medications since my numbers weren't that high. I agreed and decided to embrace the heart healthy lifestyle with hopes I could lower my numbers naturally. What really got me annoyed about my past doctor is the fact the nurse told me to start medications on the phone and I pushed back and said I got two other opinions that suggest not to go on medications right now given my numbers aren't "that" high and my age. Within a couple of minutes of the nurse consulting my doctor (I cried while waiting on her return call) the nurse said "I talked to the doctor and she said she's fine if you don't start medications.". WHAT? Wow. Ok, I am going to move on. I have a doctor now I love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was getting cholesterol numbers checked every 3 months so I had many results that were total bummers. I had many chances to just give up. Walk away from this {clean} life I had created. I had a gap of time between some tests as I was on a wait list for my new doctor. I must say I enjoyed the break of worry. My first results with my new doctor were in June of 2013. They weren't horrible, but still not great. It's probably my fault because out of spite I had fattening pizza the night before my test! I don't recommend that. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On January 13th, 2014 (3 years+ since I started this journey) I had another test. FINALLY, I got the results I had prayed for...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">M</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">y overall cholesterol was <b>188 </b>(needs to be <200)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">HDL was <b>42</b> (needs to be >40)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">LDL was <b>122</b> (near optimal is 100-129)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Trigs was <b>118</b> (needs to be < 150)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My ratio needs to be 5.00 or less.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is now <b>4.48</b>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also, my doctor ran a HsCRP test, also know as C-Reactive Protein.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">C-reactive protein -- or CRP -- appears to be correlated to heart disease risk. Inflammation (swelling) of the arteries has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Low Risk: < 1.0</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Average Risk: 1.0-3.0</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>High: >3.0-10.0</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Indeterminant: > 10.0</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mine was <b>.67</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was great news! I am so grateful for this journey to better overall health. I no longer have to worry about weight loss. I maintain my weight easily. I remain good energy levels and feel younger. I feel good about my decision and I am beyond happy to finally get a result I am proud to call mine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Make sure you know your numbers.</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-91094504417016200312014-01-20T09:16:00.003-05:002014-01-20T09:17:55.644-05:00Creamy Shrimp Pasta<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know what has come over me because I am now eating shrimp. I used to hate shrimp. I do buy it frozen, precooked and ready to heat from Costco. Super simple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> This is an adaptation of a recipe from my Clean Eating Magazine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is a wonderful pasta dish that leave you feeling very satisfied you didn't give up all the creamy, heavy pasta meals you once loved. Best part of all, you don't feel bloated and tired afterwards. </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Creamy Shrimp Pasta</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8 ounce box of pasta (I used Corn/Quinoa Ancient Harvest)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1-2 tsp Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3-4 cloves of garlic minced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp dried thyme</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp dried oregano</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 2/3 cups of Classic Rice Milk (Or plain Coconut Milk would work great too)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 Tbps Cornstarch (* see notes below)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 Tbps high quality Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano(+ a little more for garnish)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp sea salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp black pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1lb shrimp, peeled and deveined</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 15 ounce can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (BPA-free is best)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10 sun-dried or oven dried tomatoes, drained, and sliced (The Costco brand is great)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 cups of chopped spinach</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 Tbps fresh chopped basil</span></li>
</ul>
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</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Cook pasta according to package. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan on low-medium saute the EVOO with the garlic, thyme, oregano, and pepper flakes (if using)until garlic begins to soften (about 30 seconds).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Add the milk to the pan and stir.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Add a cornstarch "slurry" to the mixture and stir over medium constantly until the mixture has began to thicken. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5) Add in the cheese and stir. Add in salt and pepper. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Add in frozen (or even thawed) shrimp, beans, tomatoes and spinach. Stir until well mixed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7) Add in cooked pasta, stir.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8) Mix in chopped fresh basil. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9) Sprinkle with cheese and serve.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NOTES:</b> Create a cornstarch "slurry" by mixing the Tbps of cornstarch with about 1 Tbps water and mix until it dissolves before adding to your mixture. This will insure there are no lumps in the recipe. :)</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-57365730338128850952014-01-16T09:29:00.001-05:002014-01-16T09:30:18.510-05:00{dairy free} Creamy Potato Soup<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Creamy potato soup...with ZERO dairy...yep! I have accomplished it. This isn't completely meatless as I used chicken stock. I think it adds nice flavor (without adding butter). I wanted to try to get it completely dairy free, but still seem like a comfort food. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5JXAaz_JIqEzTtpmi2_4jOX5hcjSXlLZF3YkM8ELlAdm4SPYtgo1fhN28TL093_tP7uqyin0XRFmHPp1Oz-MDwIsBv_I3PeUF_lM5CTi7i7kCXtADwAH4IN0tQ7MWJ8-g7hyoihr5w8/s1600/potatosoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5JXAaz_JIqEzTtpmi2_4jOX5hcjSXlLZF3YkM8ELlAdm4SPYtgo1fhN28TL093_tP7uqyin0XRFmHPp1Oz-MDwIsBv_I3PeUF_lM5CTi7i7kCXtADwAH4IN0tQ7MWJ8-g7hyoihr5w8/s1600/potatosoup.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>{dairy free} Creamy Potato Soup</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Ingredients: </b></span></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">6-8 gold potatoes (scrubbed and diced with skin left on)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">one small onion (chopped)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">1 Tbps Organic EVOO (I recommend Kirkland brand at Costco)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">one small leek (whites/light greens only, chopped, rinsed)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">4 garlic cloves(minced)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">1 tsp thyme</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">2 cups plain rice milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">2 cups organic low sodium chicken stock</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Directions:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">1) Saute leeks and onions in EVOO and garlic in a large pot. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">2) Add thyme, potatoes, rice milk, and chicken stock to the pot. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">3) Cook until potatoes are tender. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">4) Ladle out about 3 cups into Vitamix and blend until creamy. Pour the mixture back in to pot. Salt and pepper to taste.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Top with green onions (and cheese if you if aren't wanting to keep this dairy free). In my opinion it's just as food without the cheese in this recipe. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Serve with bread (or clean crackers) and large salad. ENJOY. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">NOTE: Make sure to soak the leeks after they are chopped to get all the dirt off of them. Then rinse. Make sure you use gold potatoes as they have a more creamier taste. </span></span>CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-25727145074729791842014-01-13T15:25:00.000-05:002014-01-13T15:25:23.100-05:00Heart Health<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many of you that have been following me for years know my battle to get my cholesterol numbers lower. If you don't you can read my beginning blog entry here with some numbers: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://eatcleanfreak.blogspot.com/2011/03/cholesterolthe-good-bad-and-ugly.html" style="color: orange;">Cholesterol {the good, the bad, and the ugly}</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QjZxP5yZEg46lfsC3R_-c7906iMgsCMHS5qw-UY1ggXW7biRTR1JpSoC1MVqaB9xUiCc0udTL8uFv2PuPQHh6WYiYfcr8Qv3m-MZjUEPcsrHqXdeYvB_WmU0O6LJlPw11G4TTQdwPzM/s1600/healthy-heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QjZxP5yZEg46lfsC3R_-c7906iMgsCMHS5qw-UY1ggXW7biRTR1JpSoC1MVqaB9xUiCc0udTL8uFv2PuPQHh6WYiYfcr8Qv3m-MZjUEPcsrHqXdeYvB_WmU0O6LJlPw11G4TTQdwPzM/s320/healthy-heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In this journey to get them lower I have realized that those numbers are NOT the only deciding factor of good heart health. Other factors that make you at higher risk of developing heart are:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Smoking</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Obesity (20% over your ideal weight)<span style="font-size: x-small;"> For ex: a women 5'-6" that weighs 190 lbs is considered obese</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Uncontrolled diabetes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">High Blood Pressure</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">High C-Reactive Protein </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Uncontrolled stress and anger</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Physically inactivity</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am happy to say that I have none of these above risk factors (except borderline cholesterol). I had my C-reactive protein tested this past summer (June 2013) and my number was .67. I had no idea you could do such a test.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> (see chart below for reference)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Low Risk <1.0</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Average Risk 1.0-3.0</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">High >3.0-10.0</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Indeterminant 10.0 +</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is C-reactive protein or CRP ? It appears to be correlated to heart disease risk. Inflammation (swelling) of the arteries has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The body produces CRP during the general process of inflammation. Therefore, CRP is a "marker" for inflammation, meaning its presence indicates an increased state of inflammation in the body. In studies involving large numbers of patients, CRP levels seem to be correlated with levels of heart disease risk. In fact, CRP seems to predict cardiovascular risk at least as well as cholesterol levels do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This makes me so happy to hear these results. My mother has Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder causing inflammation in your joints, and I am hoping with diet and exercise I can avoid getting this disease or at least prolong it from happening.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will get a new set of results in the next few days or so and I will report those results. If you have ANY of these risk factors, I highly suggest you get your C-Reactive Protein checked (blood work). Also, if you don't know your cholesterol numbers it's time you got them. It could save your life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I still to this day do not regret opting to NOT take statin drugs. My new doctor is proud of me. He is proud that I decided to lose the weight, eat a heart healthy diet, and stay active for the past 3 years instead of opting for drugs (and all the side effects that come with). I truly love my doctor. He is willing to treat ME and not my symptoms. There is a HUGE difference in this doctor's approach compared to my last. Choose your family doctor very wisely and don't settle. Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself. You are worth the fight.</span></div>
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<b>Here are some ways you can reduce your risk of heart disease:</b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Quit smoking .</span></b> Smokers have more than twice the risk for heart attack as nonsmokers. Smoking is also the most preventable risk factor. If you smoke, quit. Better yet, never start smoking at all. Nonsmokers who are exposed to constant smoke (such as living with a spouse who smokes) also have an increased risk. So taking measures to eliminate this exposure to smoke is important.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Improve cholesterol levels.</span></b> The risk for heart disease increases as your total amount of cholesterol increases. In general, your total cholesterol goal should be less than 200 mg/dl; HDL, the good cholesterol, higher than 40 mg/dl in men and 50 mg/dl in women (and the higher the better); and LDL should be less than 130 mg/dl in healthy adults. For those with diabetes or multiple risk factors for heart disease, LDL goal should be less than 100 mg/dl (some experts recommend less than 70 mg/dl if you are very high risk). Interpretation and treatment of cholesterol values must be individualized, taking into account all of your risk factors for heart disease. A diet low in cholesterol and saturated and trans fat will help lower cholesterol levels and reduce your risk for heart disease. Regular exercise will also help lower "bad" cholesterol and raise "good" cholesterol. Medications are often needed to reach cholesterol goals.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Control high blood pressure.</span></b> About 60 million people in the U.S. have hypertension, or high blood pressure, making it the most common heart disease risk factor. Nearly one in three adults has systolic blood pressure (the upper number) over 140, and/or diastolic blood pressure (the lower number) over 90, which is the definition of hypertension. Like cholesterol, blood pressure interpretation and treatment should be individualized, taking into account your entire risk profile. Control blood pressure through diet, exercise, weight management, and if needed, medications.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Control diabetes. </b></span>If not properly controlled, diabetes can contribute to significant heart damage, including heart attacks and death. Control diabetes through a healthy diet, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Get active. </b></span>Many of us lead sedentary lives, exercising infrequently or not at all. People who don't exercise have higher rates of death and heart disease compared to people who perform even mild to moderate amounts of physical activity. Even leisure-time activities like gardening or walking can lower your risk of heart disease. Most people should exercise 30 minutes a day, at moderate intensity, on most days. More vigorous activities are associated with more benefits. Exercise should be aerobic, involving the large muscle groups. Aerobic activities include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, jumping rope, and jogging. If walking is your exercise of choice, use the pedometer goal of 10,000 steps a day. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Eat right .</b></span> Eat a heart-healthy diet low in salt, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and refined sugars. Try to increase your intake of foods rich in vitamins and other nutrients, especially antioxidants, which have been proven to lower your risk for heart disease. Also eat plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.</b></span> Excess weight puts significant strain on your heart and worsens several other heart disease risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol and triglycerides. Research is showing that obesity itself increases heart disease risk. By eating right and exercising, you can lose weight and reduce your risk of heart disease.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Manage stress.</span></b> Poorly controlled stress and anger can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Use stress and anger management techniques to lower your risk. Learn to manage stress by practicing relaxation techniques, learning how to manage your time, setting realistic goals, and trying some new techniques such as guided imagery, massage, Tai Chi, or yoga.</div>
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<i>taken from <a href="http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/risk-factors-heart-disease"><span style="color: orange;">webMD</span></a></i></div>
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<br />CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-9086065581096251462014-01-04T10:19:00.001-05:002014-01-04T10:19:48.052-05:00Rockstone Pizzeria & Pub {Fishers}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A gourmet pizza joint opened last year in Fishers. If you haven't checked it out, you should! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Local restaurateur Ed Sahm, along with business partners Ryan Bucksot and Bill Greenman, opened the restaurant with a menu of customizable pizzas featuring locally sourced meats and vegetables, baked pasta dishes, salads, house-made foccacia for sandwiches, wood-fired crackers and desserts. Gluten-free options also will be available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ed Sahm is a great guy, and sits on the Board of Directors of the </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.megansottfoundation.org/pages/Home/" style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Megan S Ott Foundation</a> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(an organization founded by my late friend, Megan, right before she lost her battle to Breast Cancer). I love supporting his restaurants, and haven't been to one that isn't great!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: xx-small;">Photo by Nuvo.net</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can't say that everything in this restaurant is clean, but I can say it tastes fresh and they source local fresh ingredients. Their City Ham, Capacolla and Chorizo are from Goose the Market. Their chicken is Indiana Amish chicken which is free of any hormones or antibiotics and free range. They order how many whole chickens they will use for the week and they are delivered without ever hitting a freezer. Their pork shoulder is also from the same producers of their chicken. All meats are sourced from Indiana.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Wood Fired Buff Chick Pizza</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another added bonus is that all of their sauces, dough, dressings and desserts are made in house daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rockstone Pub serves a seasonally changing wine and beer menu with 24 local, regional and imported beer options on tap and 30 bottled beer varieties. Twenty-five wines wines are offered as well, along with sake and sangria cocktails.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 4,800-square-foot restaurant seats 80 in the bar area and 40 in the family dining area. So if you are concerned with dining with a bunch of kids I can assure the areas are very separated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check out their website: </span><a href="http://www.rockstonepizzapub.com/"><span style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">www.rockstonepizzapub.com</span></a></div>
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<br />CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-75302084478807315162013-12-29T11:07:00.002-05:002015-01-06T09:15:38.274-05:002013 {a good challenging year}<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2013 </span>has been a year of change for my family. My husband had a very rough year at his job in regards to job security and stress. He had to personally lay off 70 employees earlier this year at ONE time. It was very hard on him and he experienced severe debilitating headaches during the final months at that job. Bad enough he decided to get a CAT scan to be proactive and as he would like to report: "there are no cats in my head". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please, do not take stress in your life lightly. Stress will negatively impact your life (and fast)!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also equally stressful for us was the fear of losing our only income at any given time. With that being said he decided to move on from that company. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By a miracle of God, another job found him a few months ago (it's not easy finding a job near us in his field that he wanted to do). And you read that right...they found him. This job is one that he loves (and it's closer to home)! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While it is a lot less pay, it is stable and rewarding. The owner of the new company practices many acts of "giving" in the community, which by now you know is very important to me (and to good overall well being). A true blessing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Other than that my year has been a great one. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Could I have worked out more in 2013? YES! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Will I let that bother me? No. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have now completed 3 years off Diet Coke and ALL artificial sweeteners. I have continued to feed my family a healthy clean diet that I feel great about. My 9 year old knows how to read an ingredients label and does so on her own many times. So proud!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many of my family and friends aren't well and are struggling. This is hard to witness, but it drives home the importance of being healthy (mentally, physically, and emotionally) for a greater quality of life.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKnfFOFEEjUzNijeKXMcz42Tn-3AaufQEsWxcTg0gBZrRhV4ophCgOotsx3QVqlV1o83_sWlyTlpvl8OfPTHbOLIH4TsOGaJJ2T8F7WJwzHiwzdf8wo7CXWidyMSL-I7YrbXoLbQ0DLAw/s1600/5fd0221ef86c11e2ae2622000a1fb7e1_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKnfFOFEEjUzNijeKXMcz42Tn-3AaufQEsWxcTg0gBZrRhV4ophCgOotsx3QVqlV1o83_sWlyTlpvl8OfPTHbOLIH4TsOGaJJ2T8F7WJwzHiwzdf8wo7CXWidyMSL-I7YrbXoLbQ0DLAw/s320/5fd0221ef86c11e2ae2622000a1fb7e1_7.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My husband's headaches have went away with his new job. What a blessing! It goes to show that stress can cause you a lot of discomfort, worry, and medical bills! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYPHyvRcPC16RuSyqZuKmhddcVu4ihKKP63xXd6CZaD5YaEqtLaCzxsrNyKaqW87dG8dhdfEBued_wWcsXMJWrI2qW12-pozZ4d9yAL1zEkY9ycoQ5TAzs3XsVnpY9Z5lD5NZ6_MmOUg/s1600/joy_heart_redc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYPHyvRcPC16RuSyqZuKmhddcVu4ihKKP63xXd6CZaD5YaEqtLaCzxsrNyKaqW87dG8dhdfEBued_wWcsXMJWrI2qW12-pozZ4d9yAL1zEkY9ycoQ5TAzs3XsVnpY9Z5lD5NZ6_MmOUg/s400/joy_heart_redc.jpg" height="307" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My pastor has been speaking lately on being filled with HAPPINESS vs being filled with JOY. There is a huge difference. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happiness comes and goes as situations change around you (finances, health, relationships), but being filled with JOY stays consistent day in and day out allowing you to see good beyond the struggles. Allowing you to do God's work. Allowing you to accept that life will have struggles and speed bumps and through those you will grow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Being able to be filled with God's JOY and always seeing things through a positive filter is a true gift. There are many "happy" people in this world that are miserable. They are always wanting more "things" and always seeking other's approval and acceptance. They will probably forever be trying to fill some void.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Have you ever wondered why a person with cancer (even on their death bed) can be filled with such happiness? Well, that's not happiness, that's JOY! Deep in their soul they are filled with JOY and share it with those around them. I have witnessed this first hand with two friends that left this Earth way too soon from cancer. Their strength, love, and joy has changed me forever. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will NEVER, EVER take a single day for granted for as long as I am on this Earth. Even the crappiest of days I will look for the good and I have them both to thank for that.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 32px;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Joy is a Fruit of the Spirit, which every Christian receives at the moment of salvation. Our joy is constant because God is constant. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 32px;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Therefore, we are to be constantly delighting in the Lord.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“I like living. I have sometimes been wildly, despairingly, acutely miserable, wracked with sorrow, but through it all I still know quite certainly that just to be alive is a grand thing.” - Agatha Christie</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I found this wonderful blog post below...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 32px;"><i>It has never failed that when I have been through the most heart-breaking passages of my life — betrayal, financial hardship, divorce, dreams dashed — the pain brought me to the floor of my being, and what was there to be found?:</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 32px;"><i>The simple joy of being alive. So cosmically basic it’s mind-blowing: the joy to be here, connected, animated, breathing, blessed, resilient, to be broken, to be open, to have what was, what’s left, what’s coming. The joy just to be part of reality.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 32px;"><i>Happiness. Love it when it comes.</i></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 32px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Joy. It’s the love that lasts no matter what.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Read more here:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.daniellelaporte.com/definition-of-happiness-and-why-its-different-from-joy/"><span style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Definition-of-happiness-and-why-its-different-from-joy</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please read my link and tips from last year if you haven't, or take a refresher course: </span><a href="http://eatcleanfreak.blogspot.com/2012/12/are-you-ready-for-2013.html"><span style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you ready ???</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdc7pCD7jXguUPEvWd_Fthw5PWe-RfjPd-rpJTDu4aE2kO1F46UYzhLD6zJIpNj_Cz4yZNm_Dyh5Af2dRHpcCPseKDTNFzu8sezs89ow9xADJxZtRoJOUDr08orT5kSVkhHwjOn7gzFpU/s1600/New-Year-Wishes-2014-640x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdc7pCD7jXguUPEvWd_Fthw5PWe-RfjPd-rpJTDu4aE2kO1F46UYzhLD6zJIpNj_Cz4yZNm_Dyh5Af2dRHpcCPseKDTNFzu8sezs89ow9xADJxZtRoJOUDr08orT5kSVkhHwjOn7gzFpU/s400/New-Year-Wishes-2014-640x400.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I hope you have a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">BLESSED and JOYFUL year in 2014. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Much love, Angie</span></div>
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CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7625091254670048109.post-25238147038288730222013-12-24T14:05:00.001-05:002013-12-24T14:07:43.195-05:00Giving Back {a blessing to all}<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My husband's new job is awesome in the fact that the owner challenges his employees to GIVE BACK. He even starts off the challenge with giving his employees money to give to others. If you ask me, there isn't many employers doing this these days. Especially in the hands on type of way this one does. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My husband shared with me a story from a fellow employee sharing his story of himself and his wife, Jen, on their journey to give back. I wanted to share this with you to show you how being aware of others around you can truly open your eyes to the hurt and struggles others are experiencing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrO88AqTSCNGeyKV9aH5mtEqgVoqc9XqHyp34CYt5au3uR1sBSJBHeH_pi_hhd0lVt-pFIeqPrkOL_xcZUzNKcyG7Ue5Zq0oWShw7Aa6WVb2t4Ffs06-7gKjl6JKpQirjqzx9iGyRBoGc/s1600/5323926285_d2a54282bd_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrO88AqTSCNGeyKV9aH5mtEqgVoqc9XqHyp34CYt5au3uR1sBSJBHeH_pi_hhd0lVt-pFIeqPrkOL_xcZUzNKcyG7Ue5Zq0oWShw7Aa6WVb2t4Ffs06-7gKjl6JKpQirjqzx9iGyRBoGc/s320/5323926285_d2a54282bd_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Going into the Christmas season, Jen and I had a plan and knew what we were going to do with the Giving Challenge cash and our personal donations. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Throughout the year, along with our in-laws, we had been helping a mother who is battling cancer, and her three children. They live in a “house” with roaches scurrying across their dirt floors, and little more than state assistance to get them by. Every time the mom is able to get a job, they lose their state aid, which barely makes it worthwhile. The plan was to help them as much as we could. That was the plan. I like plans. Then, on 11/21 at the company meeting, the match was rolled out. Jackpot! I worked out an “arrangement” with Scott</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> (he's the owner)</span><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> for the match so the family could be helped even more. Again, I like plans…</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">...and then the following Monday rolled around.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Soon after I arrived at the office, I got a call. It was Jen. </span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The van won’t start.” </span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ugh. The symptoms she described sounded a lot like the time the battery in our last minivan ended up having a dead cell and we were left stranded late at night in a Terre Haute McDonalds with two five year olds and a newborn. That vehicle was 5-1/2 years old. This one was 5-1/2 months old. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Keep trying, and let me know if I need to come home to take the boys to school,” I said. Click.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About 30 minutes later, she called back. </span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I managed to get it started, but something definitely doesn’t seem right.”</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Well, you should probably take it to Penske and have them check it out.”</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Ugh. I might try going to the new dealership up on 37. It’s closer, and I really don’t like going to Penske.”</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had always gone to Penske – since about 2003, I believe.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fast-forward to that afternoon. At 1:45 PM, I started getting frantic texts from Jen. She was in the kids’ section of the waiting area at the new dealership.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: I’m sitting at Honda and almost in tears. I’m sitting with a mom and her three kids. The husband has a brain tumor, they’re upside down on their trade-in, and can’t afford the used 2007 minivan they’re looking at.</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: :(</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: They have 5, 4, 1, and are pregnant and due in March with number 4</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: Wow</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: I am so sad that I can’t just write them a check</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: Would 500 make difference?</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: 1000?</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: I don’t know. It sounds like thousands :( I’m going to ask if they could use our crib</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: K</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: Could they use the changing table too?</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: I’m going to ask. And I’m going to ask about the money too</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: There’s a reason why we are here with them</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: Do you have the 500 cash?</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: It’s at home. I can go get it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: Let me talk first. He is medically retired from military […] I’ll let you know.</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: Ok</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">[…]</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: He has gone two years longer than expected but is having seizures again</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: He can’t reason and is losing inhibitions. Tumor too close to stuff to operate</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">[Way too much time goes by]</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: Please go get the 500!!! :)</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: Or stop by bank!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me: What made up your mind?</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen: THEY did!!! Please hurry!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While the husband had gone to negotiate with the salesperson, his wife felt the need to open up to Jen, and Jen quickly found out the strength and faith of this family.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The husband was deployed with the Army in 2009 when he suffered a seizure. They discovered a brain tumor in his frontal lobe the size of a fist. They discharged him, and he had partial removal of the tumor, radiation, and chemo. The weekend before coming to the dealership (this is almost 4 years later), he had his first seizure since surgery and, as a result, had to give up driving.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Knowing that they were needing a larger vehicle with their 4th child on the way, they were at the dealership to trade both their cars for a used minivan. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> He came back into the room to explain to his wife that they were upside down on both their cars and couldn’t get the van without paying more money than anticipated. With his tumor where it is, his ability to verbalize this information was compromised. He was very frustrated, and they were both near tears. They prayed about the situation. Neither one of them wanted to go against God’s path for them.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jen was touched by their faith and commitment to each other and to Christ, despite their unfathomable circumstances, and felt the Spirit move her to help this family. She texted me, and I was able to drive over and meet Meagan, Jeremy, and their kids. We gave them the Giving Challenge $500, some additional money I pulled from our safe, and baby furniture that his wife mentioned they needed.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We could tell that they didn’t want to accept our help but humbly did with deep gratitude. We didn’t know it until afterwards, but $500 was the exact amount they needed to buy the van. And the rest was to be used for medical bills and other expenses for their diabetic and autistic child. Jeremy’s tumor is now inoperable, as it’s too close to a major artery. It’s only a matter of time before he meets the Lord, but this isn’t stopping this family from following the call of becoming pastors and moving toward being missionaries.</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We stopped by their house this past weekend to drop off the baby furniture, and learned that Jeremy had been experiencing partial seizures over the last few days. In spite of all of this, their faith remains amazing and inspiring, and has touched us in a way we could never have understood had we not been led to meet them personally.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And our minivan? There was nothing wrong - everything checked out fine. And that baby furniture? Just the night before, we had decided it was time to get rid of our crib and changing table, and to list it on the Facebook selling site the next day (that Monday).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What started out as a normal day full of activities was turned into a day completely planned by God. And His plan was way better than ours!</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the end, with the Giving Challenge cash, our contributions, and the match, two families were helped. We have been blessed in this experience this year.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> It’s amazing what the Lord does for those who seek to do His will! </span>CLEAN FREAKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01145632447712221214noreply@blogger.com0