Unrefined shea butter is always best, but isn't easy to work with as is. Here's my guide to melting shea butter to maintain its goodness, but none of its grit.
Natural UV Protection Using Tamanu Oil: My Favorite Find at the Farmer's Market in Winter Garden
Natural UV Protection Using Tamanu Oil: My Favorite Find at the Farmer's Market in Winter Garden Whenever I travel to a new place, I make an effort to slow down and try to experience my new environment like a local. Typically in the beginning, I avoid anything chain and seek out experiences that will help me get a good sense of where I am. I like to start local and then do whatever touristy things I find myself attracted to. This looks differently depending upon where I am. When I was in rural Mozambique, I simply had to sit back and enjoy the ride. Everything I did, everywhere I went was local and unique to where I was. In Buffalo, New York, I shopped at the local boutiques along the Elmwood strip, went to small hole in the wall food and drink establishments, took in the cafe culture, small theatres and parks before going to the mall and doing things that were identical to the things I could do at home.
There are places where this is easy and there are places where this is quite hard.
Orlando, Florida with its incessant chain stores, incurable Disney mania and at first glimpse monotone matte buildings identical in shape and size, appeared to me, completely devoid of character, until recently.
We visit Orlando at least once a year. My in-laws live there. My husband's siblings live there. We have two small Disney smitten children. It is a part of our narrative and our relationship with the city isn't fizzling anytime in the near future.
Every year, when it's time to trek southward I let out an "ugh (insert disgusted face)- Central Florida- blech (insert another disgusted face)...." groan.
Orlando has made me cringe for as long as I could remember. Even as a small child visiting Disney World, I couldn't get past the inferno of heat, the oddly timed monsoon rains, the long lines, the blah, blah, blah, short brown buildings everywhere. I wasn't a Central Florida enthusiast.
I planned to avoid the region entirely until the husband, with the in-laws and the Central Florida dwelling siblings set into motion my annual kicking and screaming match.
At first I was prepared to give Orlando another chance. Maybe it had changed since the 90's when I had visited the Magic Kingdom as a child.
Nope. Trips to see my husband's family were full of chain stores and malls, sweltering swampy heat, relatively bad restaurants and inexplicable traffic. Sure, I had pockets of fun, but getting to see Orlando as a unique city with character and culture was not happening!
Until this last visit that is.
Note: This is not an Orlando bashing post.
I actually had an amazing time! I had an amazing time outside of the time spent at Disney, getting to know some of the neighborhoods that make up the perplexing city of Orlando.
The two neighborhoods of Celebration and Winter Garden helped me see Orlando's light!
Celebration, where we spent our final four days is beautiful! Pastel colored Victorian styled multi level homes grace perfectly manicured lawns. Colorful bikes zipped along main street past the local shops, restaurants and boutiques that lined expansive palm tree studded streets. The stunning variety of green hues and textures make one feel vibrant and alive. Celebration is close to Disney, but thankfully removed. I will gladly return to Celebration.
Winter Garden made me smile. Another neighborhood in the Orlando area, Winter Garden had stretches of small shops, quirky local restaurants and cafes. Pedestrian friendly and extremely family friendly, people strolled the narrow sidewalks with their dogs, holding hands, pushing baby strollers. Winter Garden has character and so much charm.
Winter Garden is also home to a piece of gold! The Saturday afternoon farmer's market is superb!
The farmer's market at Winter Garden is less produce and artisanal food as it is local artisans and shops. There is a distinct holistic and metaphysical vibe as you stroll by white tents encircled by plumes of white sage and incense smoke, pink Himalayan salt lamps and crystals on celestial display. The aroma of herbs and spices waft everywhere.
There's a place for kids to run free. A small stage by the food trucks where you can enjoy live music and refreshment.
Toddler free and excited, I was walking with my sister-in-law Lori who recently relocated to the neighborhood when something caught my eye....
It was a sign that read "Ask me about Tamanu Oil!" The sign was on a table surrounded by lotions, oils and scrubs.
I like lotions, oils and scrubs!
I was intrigued. I hadn't heard of Tamanu oil. So I asked.
The thing I love most about farmer's markets is that you get to speak directly to farmers and artisans. Andrea, the woman behind the table was the creator of Barnse Bath Co. a line of body care products with the slogan "Take the natural bath." She and her husband developed and worked on the line together. Tamanu oil was the main ingredient in the products in her line and for good reason. Tamanu oil it turns out, is nature's sunscreen. Undiluted, it provides a person with an spf of around 20. I was sold!
I purchased a lovely bottle which came in handy later when we visited Disney World. The oil was infused with rose essential oil and smelled wonderful. Best of all, it absorbed directly into our skin and never left an oily trace on the surface. It dried perfectly matte.
This was a natural sunscreen I didn't feel hesitant about applying to my two toddlers. Have you ever read the ingredients on the back of a bottle of sunscreen? Yikes!
Tamanu oil I learned, originates in Malaysia and is known to be much more than a natural protector against the sun.
Tamanu is reported to:
-heal minor abrasions and burns on the skin
-heal acne and eczema
-seal moisture into the hair shaft
-have cellular regenerative properties making it great for aging skin
-protect against hyper-pigmentation
-heal nail fungus and foot odor due to its anti-fungal and anti microbial properties
-protect against stretch marks
-soothe diaper rash
-soothe insect bites and itching
In short, tamanu oil which can be applied directly to the skin is pretty darn miraculous.
I'm so happy I came upon the farmer's market in Winter Garden.
Not only do I plan to return, but I plan to pick up some more great products from Barnse Bath Co.
Have you tried Tamanu Oil?
All Natural Eczema Cream You Can Make At Home
Safari in Disney World on the Kilimanjaro Safari at Animal Kingdom!
I have always wanted to go on a safari! I came close in South Africa. I almost made it to Kruger National Park. At the last moment, it didn't happen. I was living in Mozambique at the time and told myself I had nothing but time to go on a safari- no rush. Before I knew it, my work contract was up, I was headed back home to the states and I hadn't taken my safari.
A year later, I was on vacation in Tanzania with some friends. I knew this would be my chance to finally take that safari. I made tentative plans to go to Ngorongoro, only I became distracted, very distracted by a little island off the coast, you know- Zanzibar. The moment my toes touched the crystal clear water it was over. I stayed put. Another safari opportunity missed.
I'll just go back I told myself. I'd made over eight trips to Africa, what was one more.
Then I got pregnant. Two years later I was pregnant again. Time went by and needless to say I have yet to return to the continent. I did however manage to make my safari dreams come true- well sort of.
Safari in Disney World on the Kilimanjaro Safari at Animal Kingdom!
Thanks to the visionary folks at Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom theme park, I was able to finally experience a safari.
It's called the Kilimanjaro Safari and it felt astonishingly realistic.
Well, for the most part...
From the baobab trees to the pseudo Savannah, squinting past the palm trees and in places short fences, one could convince themselves that they were in a Southern African country.
Aside from the lions who were in an enclosed area, the animals roamed freely along acres of open land modeled to perfection after their home habitats.
It was a sight to see.
Disney's attention to detail needs to be applauded.
Our guide pointed out animals as we chugged along in our jeep. We stopped here and there for photos or for a closer look.
The Kilimanjaro Safari was the highlight of my trip to Animal Kingdom.
My quest to experience an African safari has been rekindled. I can hear Botswana calling my name!
Within the next two years, once my youngest is a bit heartier and able to get medical clearance to travel to a malaria zone- we plan to head to beautiful Botswana in the south of the African continent to take our dream family safari vacation.
In the meantime, I have my lovely Disney safari memories!
Tips for the Kilimanjaro Safari at Animal Kingdom:
- Use your fast pass if you can. You might have to book ahead. This ride is popular.
- If you can't use your fast pass, hit the line early as soon as the park opens or try the line during lunchtime when most people are heading to the restaurants.
- Best time to visit the park is late October/ early November. The weather is not as hot and the park is not very crowded.
Easy Spaghetti Squash Bowls
Disclaimer: This was my first time working with spaghetti squash! Truth: I loved it!
Last week, I went to the farmer's market in search of squash to display in my fruit and veggie basket.
I was just looking for pretty colors, interesting shapes and a variety of textures. This was supposed to be a simple fall display. One I'd eventually get around to eating (like our Halloween porch pumpkins...eventually).
When I got home, I filled my basket and took a moment to browse Pinterest.
I'm not exaggerating when I say that I must have been hit with about thirty spaghetti squash recipes.
It was a sign.
So the cogs and wheels in my head began to churn. I looked over a few of the recipes, then consulted my trusty Kripalu Vegetarian Cookbook. I had a plan.
I've never been very good at following recipes. I think that's why I can't make a successful batch of croissants despite numerous attempts. I'm an improviser, an embellisher, I need space to make something mine. Which is great when you're talking spaghetti squash bowls and not so great when you're talking croissants (one day...).
There were quite a few steps. This wasn't the quickest recipe.
But it was delicious and healthy and very worth it!
Here's what I did:
Ingredients:
1 Medium sized spaghetti squash
1 Medium red potato
2 stalks of Tuscan kale
1medium yellow onion
2 tablespoons grated ginger
1/2 cup French lentils
1 small yellow squash
1/2 cup couscous
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon dill
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt
2 tablespoons ground flax
Spaghetti Squash Prep:
Being careful not to cut all of my fingers off (much easier said than done!), I took the biggest and sharpest knife from my knife drawer and cut the squash in half lengthwise.
Once open, I placed the halves face down in a cake pan, filled halfway to the top with water and placed in the oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
I set the halves out to cool for thirty minutes before scooping out the contents of the center with a spoon. The seeds I laid out to dry for roasting (another project for another day).
The pulp, I set aside for the filling.
Filling:
This was a crock pot dish. If you have sturdy ceramic cookware, you can use that in lieu of a crock pot.
I love crock pot cooking because it's so easy and you can just dump everything in at once and be on with your day.
I cubed the potato, the onion and squash.
I cut the kale into thin strips.
I added the spaghetti squash spaghetti pulp.
Everything went in together. I gave the mixture a good faith stir before placing on the lid and giving it three and a half hours to cook.
Three and a half hours later, for the final step, I scooped the filling into the spaghetti squash halves which were set at room temperature to cool.
I popped the boats in the oven at 350 for ten minutes to give everything a nice overall brown.
Once out of the oven, I drizzled a little olive oil, sea salt and pepper over the top and....ta-da!
Dinner is served!
This is a delicious, hearty, savory, vegetarian dish that can be used as a main or a side.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie- The Best of Summer on a Fork!
I don't know where the time has gone. It is no longer summer. In fact, we've just had our first frost. But, when I originally made this delicious pie and wrote this post, it was.
I've been in the kitchen a lot since we made the move to Maryland. The food options in our immediate neighborhood are mostly chains (nothing particularly exciting) cooking at home (unless we make the trek to DC, Alexandria or Baltimore) is the preferable option.
I am smitten by my new spacious kitchen. Making food from scratch gives me endless gratification. It is no exaggeration to say that I spent the latter part of August and all of September in the kitchen.
I experimented with new dishes, soups and deserts.
I harvested herbs from my garden, explored new seasonal gems (ahem rhubarb).
My strawberry rhubarb pie, 100% in season when I made it, turned out wonderfully!
I used fresh herbs from my front yard to give it an aromatic twist and swapped out regular sugar for the coconut palm variety (low glycemic index but just as delicious).
The pie lasted only a few hours in our house and now, at long last, I'm getting around to posting it.
The strawberry and rhubarb are not in season right now, but that's okay, give it time. After the excitement of holiday season, the chill of winter and the optimism of spring, strawberry season will be upon us once more and you'll have the perfect summer recipe.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie- The Best of Summer on a Fork!
Here's what you'll need for the crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons coconut palm sugar
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
1 cup of very cold sliced unsalted butter
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
In a bowl, combine your flour, sugar and salt. Once this mixture is uniform add your fresh rosemary which you can choose to chop or not depending upon your preference.
Add to this mixture your sliced butter and get your hands in there to mix it all together. With your fingertips, knead the butter into the flour mixture.
Form two balls from your dough.
On a flat floured surface, roll your dough with a rolling pin until it's about 1/4 of an inch thick.
Lift carefully and place into a pie tin that has been oiled with butter. Using a fork poke holes in the bottom layer of crust to vent.
Once you add the filling, you'll place the second layer of crust on top for a full covered pie.
This crust is like a rosemary shortbread cookie- it just might make you swoon!
Here's what you'll need for the filling:
1 rhubarb stalk
1 1/4 cup of coconut palm sugar
dash of cinnamon
1 pint of strawberries
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon grated lime zest
1 teaspoon of fresh torn basil
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Directions:
Thinly slice your rhubarb stalk. Cut your strawberries in half. Combine the rhubarb and strawberries in a bowl. Add the grated lime zest and your basil. Toss together and set aside.
In a small bowl mix your sugar, cinnamon, sea salt and cornstarch together until uniform. Add this mixture to the strawberries and rhubarb.
Once combined, pour into your pie crust.
Place the top layer of pie crust over the filling.
You can use a fork or a knife (or both) to carve out fancy designs in the top layer of crust to vent.
Use whatever method makes you happy when it comes to the edge of the pie. I like to use my thumb to create a squiggly pattern to seal my pie crust. Many people swear by the old fold over method. Others simply cut and press. Either way will get you there.
It's now oven time!
Set your pie on the middle rack at 375 degrees for about 30-40 minutes until the pie crust turns golden and the aroma is irresistible!
Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
This pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or fresh cream!
Autumn Agritourism: Support Your Local Farmers
Visiting a pumpkin patch every autumn has become something of a tradition in our family. I must say though, before I even thought about having kids, I was that person who would go pumpkin picking with a group of girlfriends. So it may just be that my obsession has spread by osmosis to everyone around me.
There's just something so magical about getting food directly from the source.
Of course you don't have to go to a pumpkin patch to do this, but a pumpkin patch is the perfect setting for rekindling and or establishing this connection.
Autumn is a time of re- connection on so many levels in the sense that we're called to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. We return to the great outdoors, no longer hiding behind air conditioning. The air is crisp and cool inspiring us to move and be active. It's a season of hearty flavorful foods. Deep earth toned colors. Sweaters!
It's favorite time of the year. My New Year. My reset.
Autumn Agritourism: Support Your Local Farmers-
Last weekend, Mark and I got together with some dear friends and their kiddos and hit the pumpkin patch. This year we went to Middleton's Cedar Hill Farm.
Oh, holy pumpkin! In addition to rolling acres of hearty autumn crops, there were hayrides, animals, two corn mazes (one for kids and one for adults) a general store and a several play areas for the kiddos.
Like many working farms, Middleton's Cedar Hill Farm, relies on agritourism for a great deal of their income.
I'm not sure when agritourism became a catch phrase, but I do know that I enjoy it. You can become as immersed as you want. Some farms offer week long stays, weekend stays or the more typical orchard or harvesting day experience.
Two years ago around this time, I spent an amazing weekend near Woodstock milking cows. I still remember the warmth of the cows utters, the sound of my bucket filling to the brim. It was a beautiful experience. Whatever your preference, don't be shy and give agritourism a try. It's a great way to support your local farmers. Without farmers there is no food!
And if you're in southern Maryland you must give Middleton's Cedar Hill Farm a try!
Cedarville State Forest: Breathe Deeply, You've Arrived!
The smell of cedar is instantly recognizable. Earthy, grounding and pacifying, it is an aroma that reminds me of autumn. What is a visit to Cedarville State Park like? Well, imagine an entire forest dense with cedar trees. The fragrant evergreens stand shoulder to shoulder- welcoming, the crisp air heavy with cedar. Your feet are carpeted by needles and soft earth with each step.
The rich green hues of the cedar evergreens- defiantly beautiful in the midst of the colorful autumn leaf spectacular.
We spent Columbus Day exploring one of the state parks in our area- Cedarville State Forest.
Southern Maryland is full of cedar trees. We have them all over our property, but I've never seen or smelled them like this.
A cedar forest, is an armomatic heaven!
Quiet, tucked away, with hiking trails, bike trails, riding trails, and fishing, Cedarville State Forest is a great city or suburban escape for visitors and residents of the Maryland, Virginia, DC area.
Walk, sit, meditate, have a picnic. Let the serenity work it's magic.
Home to six varieties of Hawks. Stomping ground of wild turkeys. Roving ground of copperhead snakes, opossum, fox, raccoon, deer, skunks, rabbits, and many more woodland friends, a hike through Cedarville's 35,000 acres is an adventure. If you're traveling with kids, the forest offers abundant learning activities for kids who can try to identify animal tracks and nests. Bring a basket, collect sticks, colorful leaves and beautiful stones and feathers.
Or, you can simply sit and take it all in.
For a historical, spiritual and or slightly spooky twist (depending upon your take), legend has it that an Indian burial ground exists on the property.
Cedarville State Forest: breathe deeply, you've arrived!
Lavender Biscuits
"Mommy. I want biscuits!" It was my four year old. Crouched by the top of my head, hovering over me as I lay in bed.
Ugh...Not again!
The day before I had made biscuits for breakfast and two days before that and a week before that. I was over it.
"Mommy! I want to help you make biscuits!"
That four year old again. This time, he had his arms around my neck in what I could only interpret as a hug.
Slowly my eyes opened. I nodded and mumbled some sort of agreement and before I knew it, I was up, making my way groggily down the hallway to make biscuits.
FYI- It was 6:15 am on a Sunday (the joys of motherhood!)
I went through the customary motions, pulled out my ingredients and bowls. Preheated the oven.
Then I paused. I looked around. I was waking up. My juices started glowing. I got creative.
If I was going to make biscuits, then I was going to reinvent my standard go-to.
Looking in the fridge, we had left over shredded cheddar cheese. I placed it on the counter.
I opened my spice drawer and the smell of lavender hit me. I had just purchased a bag of lavender buds the other day, they'd be perfect.
Coffee in hand, four year old ironically not in sight, I set to creating.
The result was fabulous!
I'm still patting myself on the back.
I made, lavender flavored savory cheddar cheese infused drop biscuits. The delicate balance of sweet (date sugar) and salty/savory (cheddar cheese) melded beautifully. The biscuit dough (with the inclusion of almond flour) was light and fluffy.
I added flax seed and used coconut oil for a heart healthy, omega 3 twist.
The hubby, the four year old, the one year old, were all enraptured.
Sojourner, the biscuit making mad lady had done it again!
Here's what I did-
I took:
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons date sugar
2 tablespoons ground flax
2 tablespoons ground lavender
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Here's what to do:
Preheat your oven to 475 degrees. Place your rack in the middle for an even heat.
In a coffee grinder, grind the flax seed and lavender buds. Set the mixture aside in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, combine your flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt and flax/lavender mixture.
Melt your coconut oil until it has formed a pliable liquid consistency. Stir until crumbly.
Add the cold buttermilk and cheddar cheese and stir until a smooth texture is accomplished.
Prepare an oiled baking sheet. Scoop about a tablespoon of dough onto your sheet for each biscuit. You want to create enough space for your dough to expand and rise (about an inch all around).
Cook for ten minutes or until golden brown.
You will yield about a dozen.
These are amazing!
You'll win friends, lovers, minions with these bad boys.
I hope you're prepared for what is about to happen!
These biscuits pair perfectly with honey butter and lavender jam.
Another option- slice your biscuit in half and place a fried egg, bacon (if you like it), cheddar cheese and an avocado inside. You'll be in breakfast sandwich heaven!
Banana Almond Butter Muffins
I bought a bunch of bananas at the beginning of last week. As these things tend to go, I set them on display on my kitchen table, used them as paper weights, cut a few in thin slices and attempted to coax my one year old to eat. Eventually, as these things also tend to go, I had a bunch of very ripe bananas. They were beginning to attract fruit flies. I needed to do something- FAST!
On their own, I really am not a fan of bananas. My four year old used to be, but then he changed his mind, a fact I always seem to forget when I go to the grocery store and buy a bunch out of habit. My one year old, who won't eat anything, is certainly not about to start with bananas. My husband pretends to like them, then passes them over for something less healthy.
It has become a problem, the cycle, the bananas, until now...
Though I dislike bananas as they are, I love banana flavored baked goods. I love the rich flavor combination of bananas and nut butters. I love my latest concoction- Banana Almond Butter Muffins!
Healthy, full of protein, fiber and minerals, these muffins are a great way to start the day or get a post lunch pick-me-up.
Low glycemic due to my use of coconut palm sugar and heart healthy due to the almonds and coconut oil, these muffins are a light (the addition of almond flour takes away from the heaviness), guilt free, delicious choice (as far as muffins go that is...).
Want to know what I did?
Here's what you'll need:
1 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup almond flour 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons chia 1/3 cup coconut oil 2/3 cup coconut palm sugar 2 eggs 2 large mashed very ripe bananas 1/2 cup soft almond butter 1/2 cup walnuts
Here's what to do:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients minus the sugar (all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, chia, baking soda and baking powder). Almond flour tends to clump, a sieve may work well when trying to distribute it evenly. Whichever method you choose, make sure your dry ingredients combine uniformly.
In a smaller bowl, lightly beat your eggs then add the coconut palm sugar. Mix together then add the coconut oil and almond butter. Mash and mix in the bananas followed by the walnuts. Combine these ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
Add you wet ingredients to your dry ingredient bowl and mix together. Once your batter is smooth and lump free, you're ready for the final step.
Either grease your muffin tins with coconut oil or use cupcake inserts. Fill each hole 3/4 of the way full with the batter.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool before releasing your muffins.
Enjoy as they are or slather on some almond butter. They also taste great with honey butter or jam!
Makes about a dozen!
Looking for Indian Food in Washington, D.C.? Look No Further Than Rasoi Indian Kitchen
It's no secret that I love to cook. My husband Mark and I spend a lot of time in the kitchen creating meals. We don't tend to shy away from many things. There was that time we roasted a rabbit , there was the great flambé experiment of 2012 (not my finest moment in the kitchen), and that one time we came home with a paper bag full of angry wriggling lobsters.
But sometimes things are best left to the professionals (ahem- flambe). As much as I adore being barefoot in the kitchen, I equally adore wearing earrings and dining out.
When it comes to the aromatic, layered flavors of good Indian food, I prefer to eat out.
Indian food is a family favorite. In New York, we had our go to spots and now here in D.C. we have found a spot as well.
Looking for Indian Food in Washington, D.C.? Look No Further Than Rasoi Indian Kitchen!
Our food came out plated to perfection in lovely little dish sets.
The flavors were all distinct and amazing!
Aside from needing to order more rice, the serving size was perfect.
Rasoi is decorated beautifully and provides the perfect elegantly casual backdrop for a delicious meal.
We'll be back!
Here's how you can get there too.
Rasoi Indian Kitchen International Square 1810 K St.NW Washington, DC
Let me know what you think! Do you have a favorite restaurant in DC?
Engage Your Inner Child and Your Children Too At The National Building Museum!
Engage Your Inner Child and Your Children Too At The National Building Museum!
The National Building Museum is America's leading cultural institution devoted to building and design. We tell the stories of architecture, engineering, and construction to visitors from around the world.
Your first aha! moment will most likely come when you enter the lobby, look up at the ornate circular rotunda- the columns, stained glass, the way golden orbs of light cascade downwards wrapping you in an ethereal halo- hello world...
The second aha! will most likely come when you enter the Play Work Build room. A large blue foam Lego-like building world. Surrounded by children of all ages and stages and their unabashedly enthusiastic adults, it's where dreams are realized and innovation unleashed. In the great building dance your toddler transforms into an engineer, your kindergartener into a great inventor. Side by side creations are envisioned, constructed, destroyed, re-built, renovated, expanded upon, demolished- and on and on (the dance is never truly done).
Before you know it, hours have passed, you realize you're hungry, you can't account for the time.
The building room knows no time.
If you've got crawlers, waddlers, curious elementary aged students, inventive middle schoolers or if you've always had a sneaky suspicion a career in engineering or architecture was supposed to be your track, head to the National Building Museum in Washington D.C.
The National Building Museum is a place for curious minds to meet. They host family programs, adult programs, hands on and not so hands on exhibits.
The museum is a wonderful place for children and adults to build, create, problem solve and work collaboratively- an educator or homeschooling parents dream!
Did you know that playing with blocks is essential to early development ? Studies show that children who play with blocks reap cognitive benefits that will help them with math and science later on. Block play can help with social emotional development teaching patience, problem solving, cause and effect and sharing.
Um, can I hear a hip-hip-hooray for good old fashioned play!!!!
But you don't have to be a toddler to enjoy the museum. I can not tell you how relaxing and zen it is to build. It's a complete mental reset. Like a Buddhist sand painting, you create this work of staggering genius and then you knock it down. If adult building is too crunchy granola for you, there are tons of exhibits curated specially for adults. I liked House and Home- a journey through beautiful timeless homes through the ages. If you love architecture or HGTV, you'll be smitten!
The next time you're in D.C. either with friends, for work or with family, you've got to check out the National Building Museum at (401 F Street NW)!
Have you been to the National Building Museum? What did you think?
Relish this Foolproof Panna Cotta Recipe This Christmas at Family Gatherings
Relish this Foolproof Panna Cotta Recipe This Christmas at Family Gatherings! Believe it or not, winter is right around the corner!
With the season of joy soon arriving, it’s time for you to bring your culinary skills to the forefront and try something innovative for your friends and family.
Of course, plum cake, brownies and desserts galore are predictable standards, but when near and dear ones come calling, treating them to something beyond ordinary should be your aim.
Something that is delicious and light, creamy and flavorful, like the perfect Panna Cotta!
Pair the dish with topings of your choice and bring on the Christmas charm this year like never before.
With this Panna Cotta, you’ll be sure to wish everyone a JOYFUL CHRISTMAS!
Ingredients:
- Half a cup black raisins and assorted dry fruits
- Four tablespoons of rum
- A couple of gelatin sheets
- A litre and a half of cream
- 100gms caster sugar
- A teaspoon each of allspice, ginger, cinnamon powders
- A pinch of the heavenly nutmeg powder for taste
Directions:
Place all the dry fruits in a bowl and add to this the four tablespoons of rum. Cover and let it set for half an hour.
The gelatine sheets should be pre-soaked in a bowl of water (colder the better), until the sheets are soft. Drain the excess water from the sheets with your bare hands and give it a good squeeze.
Take a deep pan and heat the spices, cream and the caster sugar to a boil.
Reduce the flame and simmer for three minutes, keeping a watch on the sugar that needs to dissolve.
Get it off the flame and remove the mix from the pan.
Whisk the mixture and place the gelatine sheets into the mix, allowing it to naturally dissolve.
Add the rum-soaked-dry fruits and give it a good but gentle mix for ten seconds.
Place the mix into deep containers and allow it to sit in the freezer for an hour or until you see it set.
When you wish to serve the dish, dip the container into warm water for the ends to loosen up within and turn the dish upside down on a flat surface.
Garnish with chocolate sauce or dry fruits, and serve!
This classy winter delicacy will be the talk of the town as you conjure magic and love in Panna Cotta!
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A Delicious Low Glycemic, All Natural Chocolate Milk Syrup Your Kids Will Love!
A Delicious Low Glycemic, All Natural Chocolate Milk Syrup Your Kids Will Love!
Like most four-year-olds, my son loves chocolate milk. LOVES!
For breakfast, with dinner, whenever we go out, he wants one beverage- chocolate milk.
Now, many people would say, what's the problem, he's drinking milk, let him enjoy- but all of that sugar, artificial flavoring, the artificial colors and carrageenan adds up. Think toxic sludge in the digestive tract- not so yummy, eh...
So, I've come up with a solution- a genius solution!
This one has been husband tested, tested on my kids, my friend's kids- it's golden!
This will not only satisfy your kiddos and their chocolate milk cravings, but can be used to make hot chocolate or double as fudge syrup- sky is the limit!
It's so easy to make. Trust me when I say this one is a game changer!
Here's what you'll need:
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
4 tablespoons pure maple syrup (do not even think about using Aunt Jemima! 100% pure grade A or B please!)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract ( or almond or peppermint depending on your mood!)
*a dash of cinnamon and cayenne pepper if your feeling feisty!
Here's what to do:
You'll need a container that holds about 4 ounces.
Add your ingredients, mix with a spoon and stir until uniform. I told you it was easy!
Add one to two teaspoons to your desired form of milk and voila!
HEAVEN......
*note: If you opted for the cayenne pepper, you've got yourself one heart healthy beverage (dark chocolate = antioxidants and cayenne pepper= increased circulation and low inflammation)!
What you don't use can be stored in your jar for the next time. Since there are no preservatives, you mixture shouldn't stand unused for more than a month!
The National Harbor, the Perfect Prescription for a Country Mouse in Need of a Bit of City!
The National Harbor, the Perfect Prescription for a Country Mouse in Need of a Bit of City!
Now that I live in the country, in a brick house deep in the woods where my nearest neighbors are a family of white tailed deer and the tiny red fox who lives beneath the hollowed out maple, I definitely delight in regular field trips to bustling places.
It's nice to retreat and be a country mouse, but I still have my city mouse sensibilities.
It's all about balance!
Luckily, we've got a ton of options:
D.C. is 30 minutes away
Alexandria 20
Baltimore 45
Annapolis an hour...
but the National Harbor, that shinning aquatic gem, is a quick 15-20 minutes.
The National Harbor, in Maryland, is one of my favorite quick weekend, I need to be around people excursions.
In addition to cute shops, great restaurants and public park space with scenic nautical views, the National Harbor offers a variety of rotating events from outdoor yoga to movie nights and live music.
Sidewalk cafe's and benches are ubiquitous. It's a fabulous neighbor meet neighbor, coming together of people place.
On Saturday and Sunday, you'll find a farmer's market with local seasonal goodies.
The Harbor is a great place to bring kids as there are plenty of activities for them to enjoy, from this man made beach to a carousel, paddle boats and a toddler playground.
Sail boats, water taxis and mini cruises leave from the harbor.
The Harbor is also home to a giant Ferris Wheel.
Relatively new, we went up for the first time. The line was long but moved quicker than expected. The view was okay, nothing particularly astounding, but it was a nice little adventure.
The boys had a good time and I got to sip coffee outside and mingle. It was a good day!
A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit D.C. Too! Setting Up Shop In A New City
A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit D.C. Too! Setting Up Shop In A New City One of my favorite things about being in a new space is the fact that everything, at least, for a little while is brand new- exciting!
A month ago, we left Brooklyn to live in a rural, forested section of Maryland.
I love it! The rustle of leaves in the wind, the way sunlight cascades over the hill out back, the deer that greet us on our front lawn every morning, the poetry of crickets at night, being connected at all times to nature!
Acres for the boys to run around on and explore.
I do miss some things about being a city person though- the neighbors, sidewalk cafes, coffee shops, wine bars, brunch, strolling by rows of historic brownstones, the culture!
Luckily, though we are far out, we're not too far.
Washington D.C., my new adopted city is a quick 30 minute drive or metro ride.
Smaller, cleaner, quieter, friendlier than my former love New York, D.C. provides us with just the right balance of community, culture, and culinary delights.
This weekend, we poked around. We had brunch, attended an event, got lost and ate a lot!
It was lovely!
As I explore, I will photograph my neighborhood walks in a series of upcoming posts.
As for now, I'll continue to design my chicken coop and rabbit cages and set up my raised beds.
Country life is definitely the life for me, but a city break every now and then is also what I need.
Are you a city mouse or a country mouse?
Make Your Own Natural Facial Cleanser!
Paris in 24 Hours: A Photo Essay
This is a mini-guest photo post by Mark Williams, who is currently touring Europe with DJ Premiere. Mark can be found in the upcoming issue of Rolling Stones.
Paris is always a good idea- Audrey Hepburn
May the spirit of the city of lights be with you!
Satisfy Your Craving for Soda without Sugar and Artificial Ingredients with Kaya Water
Satisfy Your Craving for Soda without Sugar and Artificial Ingredients with Kaya Water!
One of the hardest things about being a mom, is getting my four year old to consume enough fluids.
He doesn't like water, is not really a fan of milk, can occasionally be convinced to drink tea if I've drenched it in honey and wants nothing to do with my apple cider vinegar alkaline morning drink.
Ohm loves soda and fruit juice. His exposure to both have been very limited, but that's all it takes for the damage to be done, this is why I'm so grateful for Kaya Water!
Kaya Water, a new line of sparkling, flavored waters is both delicious and nutritive. Inspired by the balancing tenants of Ayurvedic wisdom, Kaya water contains no preservatives, no sucralose or high fructose corn syrup, is non-GMO, low glycemic and caffeine free.
Kaya Water is sweetened simply and deliciously with organic agave nectar and stevia extract. In fact, when you look under the ingredients, you should be relieved to know you'll be able to identify and pronounce everything listed.
Kaya Water is available in three delicious flavors: Pomberry (pomegranate and blueberry), Lemon Lime, and Tropical (pineapple, mango- this is my favorite!)
Created by a local New York husband and wife team, Kaya water is derived from the very first principle of Ayurvedic medicine, kaya-chikitsa, the study of internal medicine that deals with cleansing and purification was developed with a goal of having a healthy drink that is as tasty as soda.
This is a beverage you can let your kids drink and enjoy (they don't need to know it's all natural).
It's a beverage that you can indulge in, guilt free (there are only 45 calories per bottle- yay agave!).
At $1.99 a bottle, Kaya Water is affordable and makes for a wonderful soda alternative.
You can find Kaya Water online at www.kayabev.com or at GNC and other select retailers.
A Small Good Thing is Proof that Dharma Matters!
A Small Good Thing Is Proof that Dharma Matters! Are you fulfilled, on the path to following your passions and dharma? Or are you, like many, going through the motions to consume more and more?
I have been many things in my 36 years: an actress, a writer, a teacher, a yogi, an international aid worker, a healer, a nonprofit administrator.
I've existed blissfully outside the box and I've been caught in the cycle of go- go- go! achieve as much and as fast as possible.
Young, ambitious, and in my early twenties, I went directly from my undergraduate work to pursuing graduate work and full time employment. At 25, I had two masters degrees, a continuing education advanced certificate, was a master teacher who led workshops and trainings, wrote curriculum, taught classes after school while trying to write and act on the side and was working towards major burnout.
By my early 30's, I'd had enough. Teaching was practical and stable, it was rewarding and I was moving up the ranks quickly, but I was miserable. Though effective and talented as a teacher, I wasn't living my dharma. The things that nourished me, I had squeezed into vacations and weekends- it wasn't enough.
It wasn't until a brief stint on a commune in the Berkshires and several stints abroad where I had the benefit of solitude, nature and the ability to experience things that shook my foundation, that I had the courage to live the life I was intended to live, a life that thrills me and inspires me to no end. However shaky or unpractical, writing, having a holistic wellness private practice, teaching yoga and making handmade organic lotions may be, it is what suits me. I'm still as driven and ambitious as ever, only this time my work is on my terms. It fulfills me and I am able to provide an invaluable service to my community. The money comes and goes, but my happiness, my engagement, my sense of purpose, drive and fulfillment are satiated. I'm so happy! I'm aligned with my dharma.
I think that's why the documentary film A Small Good Thing resonated so deeply.
How can we as individuals, as a greater society, live in a better way? Everyone has a different path, a unique Dharma, but there are common threads amongst “happy people.” Winchester, MA resident and Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Pamela Tanner Boll explores these questions in her new documentary film, A Small Good Thing, screening at the Nextdoor Theater on September 11, 2015.
Following six people in Western Massachusetts, as they commit themselves to a path of dharma and happiness instead of the practical or socially expected path, A Small Good Thing encourages us to reflect on the purpose of our chosen work, on community and on what it means to be happy.
Does Dharma matter?
This feature-length film, which recently won Best Documentary at the Boston International Film Festival, centers on a more holistic concept of well-being − one based on a close connection to oneself, the natural world, and to the greater good.
Inspiring, beautifully spun, and thought provoking A Small Good Thing examines what it means to follow your true path on both a personal and societal level.
“A Small Good Thing does not pretend to have all the answers,” says Boll. “However, the film asks whether we can change our larger goals as a nation and learn from the rest of the world about the small truths that are the sources of human happiness. I’m so happy to be bringing the film to my hometown of Winchester for two screenings.”
Blogging is one of those things that doesn't always pay well, but the opportunities that it affords me are invaluable. One such opportunity was the ability to screen this phenomenal and inspiring film.
A Small Good Thing will screen at 6:30 PM & 8:30 PM at Fall For the Arts on Friday, September 11, at the Nextdoor Theater, 40 Cross Street Winchester, MA. Admission is free.
If you're not in MA, worry not, in the Fall of 2015 there will be several screenings in Boston, New York, and San Francisco!
Keep your eyes on your Dharma and keep your eyes open for this truly inspiring documentary!
Are you following your passion? If not, what do you wish you were doing and what can you do to get there?