Quote of the Day

“People think, what’s one shard, one stone, when there are so many?” Sanders told us. “Of course, if everyone took a piece, there would be nothing left.”

- from the NYT's article "Looted for Love"

I am trying to teach my daughter this lesson. Every time we go to the Japanese Garden we have this conversation because she wants to take some flowers or leaves.

Must See Documentary: The Cove

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Last night my hubby and I watched the documentary The Cove thanks to my friend Courtney's recommendation. It was informative, depressing and eye-opening. It made us both sick to our stomachs and we both woke up still thinking about it. I'm so glad we watched it though. I think it's a must see documentary. Click here to watch the trailer.

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One More Reason to Love Amazon

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I'm an Amazon junkie. I love, love, looooooove it. I buy everything from diapers to books to art supplies, and pretty much every Christmas gift I bought my kids this year was an Amazon purchase. In theory, I'd probably rather support local mom & pop shops for books and toys, but with a 1.5 year old and a 3.5 year old, I'll cut myself some slack for choosing the cheaper and easier option for a few chaotic, expensive, never-ending-diapers kind of years.

My big complaint about Amazon, however, is the boxes. I love getting my deliveries but always feel badly about the boxes and all the waste. Between Christmas gifts and diapers, I'm never proud of how much recycling we have. Well kudos to Amazon for knowing their customers. They've invented Amazon Tote.

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AmazonTote is a free weekly delivery service from Amazon.com. There are no subscriptions, minimum delivery sizes, or fees. Items delivered using AmazonTote will be brought to your doorstep in a reusable tote bag, free of charge.

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My friend Erika told me about it and within minutes of her leaving my house I was online looking into it. What's not to love?! If you are an Amazonaholic like me, check it out! And if you buy your diapers through Amazon, sign up for Amazon Mom and get a free Amazon Prime account (free 2-day shipping on pretty much everything plus other benefits!). Amazon Prime is great for Amazon junkies.

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Erika was also raving about Amazon Fresh. She doesn't use it for all her groceries but loves it for recurring purchases like milk, cheese, canned goods and more. She was raving about how quick the orders can be delivered to your home. She even told me that when her family was on vacation, she put in an order that was on her doorstep just before arriving home from the airport. How great to come home to all your groceries! I just came home to slimy ham and stale bread. I'm definitely looking into Amazon Fresh. Right now in fact! Signing off....

The Zero Waste Home

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I'm embarrassed to say I might be the complete opposite of the family featured in the Sunset article The Zero Waste Home. While I try to reduce, reuse and recycle on a daily basis, I go through a hell of a lot of garbage and recycling. I'm ashamed at how much after reading this article and seeing how a family our same size can do it so well. While it's not in my cards to live like them, I can sure try harder to consume less and waste less. So cheers to one more resolution to add to the list! And off I go to empty out my storage unit and clear out those closets.

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Go Easy on the Detergent

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So at least I'm doing one thing right in my house and that's not over-doing it on detergent and dishwashing soap. Interesting article courtesy of my hubby...

"For the Dishwasher’s Sake, Go Easy on the Detergent"

I only use about a tablespoon (or less) of powder soap for the dishwasher and a few tablespoons of liquid soap for the washing machine (both Seventh Generation). I actually use the scoops from coffee grounds or formula for the dishwashing soap because one of those teeny tiny scoops is always enough.

The Plastiki Makes The Oprah Show

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My latest crush, David de Rothschild, was on Oprah yesterday. I missed it, darn it. If you missed it too, click here to read up and see video on Oprah's website.

Reduce Your Impact, Think Before You Buy

The Great Eastern Garbage Patch: where plastic to sea life ratios are 6:1; where birds and mammals are dying of starvation and dehydration with bellies full of plastics; where fish are ingesting toxins at such a rate that soon they will no longer be safe to eat. - Daily Kos article

Rustic uber-babe David de Rothschild is helping to bring awareness to the disturbing amount of plastic and garbage swirling around in the ocean, and pulled into large masses by the currents. One such area, called the Great Eastern Garbage Patch, located between the US and Japan is twice the size of Texas. Yes, you read that right. Twice the size of Texas! Everything from water bottles to lighters, toothbrushes, and rubber duckies floating around, killing wildlife and getting into the food system.
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David and his shipmates boarded The Plastiki, a boat made from plastic water bottles, to venture out to sea and shed some light on the issue. Click here to see Christiane Amanpour's interview with David. Click here to peruse the Plastiki website and blog. Click here to read an interesting article in the LA Times. Click here to watch a disturbing YouTube video. Click here for a overview and links to more info.

Don't turn your back on this issue denying that you have a role in it because we all play a part. Do what you can, it's not that hard... think before you buy, limit use of plastic by being more resourceful (for example - use old sour cream or yogurt containers for snacks rather than plastic bags), don't use plastic water bottles, recycle. I'm guilty of buying plastic toys to no end, but the more I read, the more I think twice and aim to be better.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi

The Problem with Coffee Cups

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Check out the article "The Basic Problem with Coffee Cups" from Sustainability is Sexy for yet another reason to invest in an espresso machine.

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Discovered via Mixed Greens.

Homework Assignment

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Food, Inc. is finally out on DVD. Rent it!

If you're someone who reads books like Omnivore's Dilemma, Food Matters or Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, then you're the perfect audience for this movie. And if you don't read those types of books, all the more reason to watch this movie so you can get a glimpse of what's going on with our food supply.

My mom, husband and I watched it last night. We were all equally glad we took the time to watch it.

Beware - it's disturbing.

Reusable Vegetable Bags

I just came across these Happy Vegetable Reusable Vegetable Bags sold on Etsy by way of a Garden Party post on Party Perfect. I thought these would make a fun gift for someone who is environmentally conscious or who likes going to the farmers market. The bags would actually be super cute for a cooking themed gift/gift wrap combo, wrapping other gifts inside them. Inside each bag you could put a specialty food item, table linens, cooking utensil or other cooking themed gifts.

Fresh Local Strawberries - The Best You'll Taste All Year

I was so inspired by Barbara Kingsolver that I made a lot of food goals for myself. One goal was to buy local organic berries while they are in season to freeze for the rest of the year. I also wanted to make freezer jam for my family and for gifts. I accomplished both in the last few weeks.

My friends Tara and Erika were helpful in explaining the best way to freeze berries. I bought two flats of strawberries from the farmers market, gave them a quick rinse before taking the core off and laid them out to dry for a few hours on kitchen towels. Then I put them on cookie sheets in a single layer and put them in the freezer overnight (or you can just do this for a few hours). This helps prevent them from all sticking together when frozen. Once frozen individually, I placed them in freezer-safe Ziploc bags and pressed as much air out as possible to prevent freezer burn. I wrote the date on the bag so I'd know when each batch of berries was done.

All said and done, I'm not sure I really saved that much money over buying organic frozen berries at the grocery store but I am supporting the local farms and making less of a footprint on the environment. Both worthy of my time.
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The following week I bought a few more flats of strawberries to make freezer jam. After looking online for recipes and asking around, I ended up using the recipe that came inside the pectin box. I think it turned out great. I made a few batches so of course I tried a few versions. I tried different amounts of lemon juice, and made some with sugar and some with honey. I used Pomona's Universal Pectin which says that you can get the right consistency without using as much sugar as other brands which is nice as some recipes call for an insane ratio of sugar to berries. They even offer a "jamline" that came in helpful when I ran into a few questions. I got a call back about 20 minutes after I left a message. I wish every recipe had a Food 911 help line!

I bought small jars so I would have lots to give away as gifts. I bought a few different styles of jars and think the hexagon shape and the mini mason jars turned out the cutest. I will make some cute tags or labels to spruce them up for gifts. I think it would be cute to give along with a great loaf of fresh baked bread. I will leave that to the local bakeries.

I had some leftover mashed berries that I mixed with a touch of sugar and have been putting over vanilla ice cream every night for dessert. Delicious. Would also be fabulous to use for strawberry milkshakes. (Thanks Lynne for that idea. Will be eating a lot of those in the next few weeks).

Next on my list... some delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble with strawberries and rhubarb from the farmers market. Get 'em while they're good!

Farmers Market Dinner - Day Three

Last night we enjoyed our third dinner with key ingredients from the farmers market.

Chicken & Eggs
I made my avgolemono soup with chicken and eggs from Stokesberry Sustainable Farms.

Red & Green Romaine Lettuce, Butter Lettuce, Honey! I'm Home! Caesar Dressing
I made another delicious salad with lettuces and dressing from the market and some fresh shaved parmesan cheese. My husband is loving this salad, as am I.

Greek Fries
I didn't make my Greek fries with anything from the market but I did use oregano from my own herb garden. I have been using my fresh herbs for lots of recipes which is fun and rewarding.

Farmers Market Dinner - Day Two

This is one of my favorite dinners. It is so quick and easy plus everything is green so you feel super healthy eating it. Again, all the main ingredients were from the farmers market on Sunday.

Halibut
I bought some fresh halibut from the same folks I buy salmon from. It was so fresh and so good. Easy preparation: Rub with olive oil, sprinkle with salt & pepper, then broil for 3-6 minutes per side. When you flip the fish, drizzle with some lemon juice and spread some store-bought pesto on top. When it's done, top with a little more pesto and serve.

Arugula
I made a salad with freshly grated parmesan and an easy vinaigrette that my friend Tara taught me... 1 t maple syrup, 2 T white balsamic vinegar, 2 T olive oil, salt & pepper. Toss and serve.

Asparagus
Place on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Broil for roughly 3 minutes, stir, broil for 3 minutes, stir and check to see if they are done (depends on thickness). Throw it back in the oven if it needs a few more minutes.

After eating such a healthy dinner I advise following it up with dessert. I ate my second peanut butter and Nutella rice crispy treat from the ladies of Honey! I'm Home! Deeeeeeeeeeelicious.

Fresh from the Market

One of my favorite things to do every Sunday is head to the farmers market and get stocked up for the week. My daughter and I were there bright and early this morning. We journeyed around the market once alone, making lots of stops to buy the week's groceries, grab a snack or watch the live music. Then a friend met us and we did it all again. The second trip around brought many more treats for my daughter including a rice crispy treat with peanut butter and Nutella (can you imagine anything better? They were so good we had to go back for more). Not my ideal way for her to eat but I was having a good time and wanted to prolong our outing so what better distraction than sugar? (I actually know better and kicked myself later when she wouldn't go down for her nap.)

Anyway, all said and done I spent two and a half hours at the market and got three bags full of food for the week along with some lunch and a million snacks. We kicked off the week of meals tonight with a fabulous farmers market dinner from start to finish...

Salmon

I loved the fresh, wild-caught salmon that I bought a few weeks ago so I was sure to stop back by the same booth. The salmon was caught the day before yesterday and filleted last night. So fresh. I used Giada's recipe for Broiled Salmon with Herb Mustard Glaze which is the easiest thing on earth and so good.

Red Potatoes

I always use Giada's recipe for Roasted Baby Potatoes with Herbs. I buy bigger red potatoes and cut them into chunks. I never feel that it takes the full hour to cook. I hold off on adding the garlic because it burns at that temp. I soak the garlic in olive oil before tossing it to help prevent it from burning. Then I wait until the potatoes are pretty much cooked before tossing with the garlic. I throw the pan back in the oven for 5-8 more minutes to cook the garlic, then they're ready to go.

Spinach
I saute it with sliced garlic and olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice. Quick to prepare and healthy too. A favorite in our house.

Red & Green Romaine Lettuce
Tossed with shaved parmesan, a touch of lemon juice and the most delicious Classic Caesar salad dressing from the ladies of Honey! I'm Home! (They are also the geniuses behind the peanut butter and Nutella rice crispy treats.)

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Cherry Pies
Pacific Coast Bakery has a booth at the market selling the most delicious homemade pies. I love the individual cherry pies, warmed and served with a little Julie's Organic vanilla ice cream (my fave). Heaven on earth!

Another Farmers Market Dinner

On Sunday I took my daughter and parents to the Ballard Farmers Market in Seattle. It was an amazing Seattle day and the streets were packed. We had a great time checking out all the amazing food from local farmers and culinary masters. My daughter loved all the live music and of course, all of the doggies. I couldn't stop buying food and can't wait for this week's meals. We kicked it off last night with a feast - main course, veggie, salad and dessert all from the market....

Ultra-fresh King Salmon

As they say on the blog, "This fish was swimming on Saturday" and I bought it Sunday. You can't get it any fresher than that. We cooked it on the grill with a very simple salmon recipe using olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh rosemary (from my new herb garden), lemon, wine and capers. It was super easy, light and flavorful.

Asparagus

Tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled. Asparagus season will be over before I ever get sick of it prepared that way.

Romaine

I bought the most beautiful head of romaine lettuce. It was monstrous in size. I can hardly believe it wasn't grown with pesticides... or steroids! I used the Simple But Delicious recipe. (I'm on one of my kicks).

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Mini Cherry Pies

Warmed in the oven, then topped with vanilla ice cream

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What's in store for the rest of the week? More asparagus and romaine, butter lettuce, organic chicken breasts, Pink Lady apples, specialty cheeses, cherry pies, fresh spinach and Yukon Gold potatoes.

Saving Trees, One Step at a Time

Trying to do something good for the environment, I donated money to the National Resource Defence Council. Well next thing I know I'm on every non-profit's mailing list and the requests for donations and membership are coming in daily, by the handful. I guess I could understand if I were donating big bucks and my name was worth sharing but that was not the case. One small donation and I'm plagued with more mail. So much for helping the environment! Now every few days I sit at the computer looking up websites and sending off emails asking to be removed from mailing lists.

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There are services you can join to help limit your junk mail but who wants to pay for that? I'm committed to the cause though so everytime I receive some, I set it aside. I have just recently removed myself from the constant influx of catalogs from Pottery Barn, William Sonoma, Land of Nod, Restoration Hardware and the like. All those companies have stores and if they aren't in your area then you can always check out their websites. Who needs a catalog twice a month from each one? It is so wasteful.

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So, I challenge you to take 20 minutes each week and try to limit your junk mail. You will save that time down the road when you're not sorting through it all and recyling all the junk.

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Remember what Gandhi said, "Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it."

Shower Cap Your Leftovers

I thought these Norpro reusable clear bowl covers were worthy of their own post. They are basically little shower caps for your bowls and the best way to get away from plastic wrap in my opinion. I like to store food in glass versus plastic (just a personal preference) so as I mentioned in my Earth Day post, I go through a lot of plastic wrap. These little covers are coming in so handy. I purchased them at my neighborhood PCC but I'm sure you can find them at large grocery store chains as well.

Happy Earth Day!

Funny enough I was working on this post this morning without even realizing it was Earth Day. How fitting....

I've changed a lot in the last few years and one of the biggest things is my awareness of the environment and my effect on it. I know the changes I've made in my daily life are not that significant, but as Gandhi says, "Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." So here are a few of the things I do to lessen my impact on the environment, and they are all such easy changes that it's hard not think everyone should do it too.

As I mentioned in a previous post, when I buy something at a retail store, I never take a bag. Generally you can shove a t-shirt or book in your purse or stroller so why take the bag? Or if I know I'm going shopping, I'll bring my own cloth bag or shopping bag from home.

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I almost always bring my own bags to the grocery store (except when I need a few paper bags for recycling). If you aren't in the habit of doing this already, it's a great place to start. After you unload the groceries, put the bags by the back door and they're ready to go the next time you head to the car.

In addition, I've become much more aware of the plastic that I buy, and I re-use all the plastic containers that food comes in. For example, a small sour cream or cream cheese container is perfect for snacks for your kids when packing a lunch. Use them for fruit, crackers, trail mix, you name it and it's one less plastic bag out the door.

I am also a leftover-oholic so I always make extra food to eat the next day for lunch. I generally use our regular plates and bowls and use plastic wrap or foil over the top which I always feel bad about. Well I just discovered Norpro reusable clear bowl covers. I love them! I bought a set of 6 bowl covers that come in a range of sizes from 3" to 10". Perfect for all the bowls of leftovers I am constantly shoving into my fridge. This is going to significantly reduce how much plastic wrap I use on leftovers.

These are just a few of the things we've instituted in our house, along with eating less meat, being psychotic about recycling, switching over to compact fluorescent light bulbs and being more aware of the energy we use. That said, I am always eager to learn more so please post your ideas and simple changes you've made to be more environmentally friendly. Thanks for any ideas and Happy Happy Earth Day!

Mixed Greens - Eating Locally in the Pacific Northwest

I just came across this great blog called Mixed Greens with fun posts to read and great recipes. I'm going to try their Spanish Omelet with Leeks this weekend and can't wait to try the Turkey n Dumplings and the Butternut Squash Risotto. There are a million butternut squash risotto recipes out there but it's fun to try recipes from a new blog to see if you like their food. If you do, it's like a goldmine of good recipes. Can't wait to spend more time reading Mixed Greens. Check it out!

One Bag at a Time

"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it."

- Mahatma Gandhi

The other day I had to run some errands and ended up making purchases at five different stores (nothing exciting sadly). Each time the cashier had my purchase ready I asked to skip the bag because I brought an empty bag with me from home. I've been doing this for some time now (or shoving purchases in crevices of my stroller) as one small gesture to help save the planet. It's such an easy way to help cut back on waste. I know most people nowadays use the reusable shopping bags at the grocery store (if you don't you should start!) but I never ever see people at clothing stores, book stores or drug stores passing on a shopping bag. I wonder why that is. A bag is a bag. Waste is waste.

Throw some old paper shopping bags in your trunk so they're there when you need them. Or you can bring along a canvas bag like the ones from L.L.Bean (love the monogrammed ones) or these cute Be Smart Be Green bags for your next shopping outings or round of errands.