Monday, April 29, 2024

Embrace The Spring Season With Delicious Plant-based Foods



Free Lilac Syringa photo and picture 

Who doesn't look forward spring and delicious seasonal spring vegetables? 

As winter fades away and nature begins to awaken, spring brings with it a burst of colors, flavors, and fresh produce. It's a time of renewal and rejuvenation, making it the perfect opportunity to embrace lighter, plant-based meals that celebrate the season's bounty. 

Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, there's no shortage of delicious options to explore. From vibrant salads to hearty gluten-free grain bowls, here are some must-try vegan spring foods to add to your repertoire:

Friday, April 26, 2024

Planning A Vacation


Free Suitcase Luggage illustration and picture

Next week I'll be leaving to take a cruise to Europe. It is a transatlantic cruise which means we will be at sea for 7 days before we begin making stops in Ireland, Belgium, and UK. 

Definitely a long time to be at sea on a ship before we make stops!  

Free Two Cruise photo and picture
We are leaving from Miami 

It is my understanding that the staff keeps the passengers busy and entertained with speakers, exercise classes, and many programs for a variety of interests during the many sea days.  

 I'll be taking my iPad and I have downloaded about 5 books to read.
I'm starting with one of my favorite authors: Kristin Hannah. She writes mostly historical fiction. I downloaded The Four Winds. 

I just read her new book called The Women which was about women's roles in the Vietnam War. It was excellent. Her books usually focus on people and their experiences and feelings.  Back to the cruise. 

Free Tower Bridge Wallpaper 4K photo and picture

At the conclusion of the cruise, we are planning to travel to and spend 5 days exploring London and then 5 days in Paris with family. 

We will navigate to the take a train from the cruise port in Southhampton, UK to London, UK and then 5 days later, we will take the fast train from London to Paris before we fly back to Miami. All carrying our luggage.

Free Eiffel Tower France photo and picture

The dilemma for me right now it how do I pack? My inclination is to pack as smart and light as possible because we will be carrying our luggage to and from the trains. Smart and light to me means color coordinating my clothing (mostly blacks, whites, and blues) so I can cross match outfits and wear them multiple times. 

assorted-color apparels

Laundry? We will not have any on the 2 week cruise unless we decide to pay an outrageous fee ($14- for one pair of jeans) or $75 for a very small bag of our clothes to send to their cleaning service. 

Hopefully when I get to Paris, we will be able to do wash at our cousin's house. In London, perhaps we will find a laundry facility. 

inline white and silver front-load washers

I am planning to wear gym clothes during the day on the cruise. The weather should be moderate with temps in the high 60's. 
In the evening for dinner, I will need to dress- but not dress up.  I plan to bring white pants, black pants, 2 dresses, 8 tops, and nice jeans. I'll repeat and mix and match. 

Free Legs Shoes photo and picture

It will be challenging but I can't carry too much when we are navigating to and from the trains- it will be too heavy and bulky for me. 

In my next post I should be able to share how I packed. 

If anyone has any suggestions - I am open.  I would like to pack more things!!!!

I can't end without sharing a recipe . It is one of my favorites. I make it in the Instant Pot but it can be made on the stove top. 


palak dal at http://www.realfoodblogger.com







Saturday, April 20, 2024

Happy Passover and Recipes


The Passover Seder (Ceremonial meal)
Picture a table adorned with a crisp white tablecloth, shimmering in the soft glow of candlelight. In the center, there's a decorative plate filled with three matzos, symbolizing the unleavened bread eaten during Passover. Surrounding the plate are vibrant green sprigs of parsley, a bowl of salt water, and a roasted shank bone, all symbols representing different aspects of the Passover story. Glasses of deep red wine or grape juice stand ready to be raised in celebration, and a joyous family gathered around the table, remembering our history, telling the story of our redemption from slavery, and sharing the blessings of the holiday of freedom!

 

Check out the foods and recipes I'll be making for the holiday!

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Creamy White Bean and Mushroom Appetizer

appetizer, white bean spread topped with mushrooms


An ordinary appetizer? Not this bold and magnificent dip/spread! Sautéed mushrooms, pine nuts, creamy white butter beans, fresh herbs and tasty seasoning make up this delightful blend. Got company coming? This will be a hit!!

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Creamy Asparagus and Cauliflower Soup

soup, asparagus and cauliflower soup

As you know (or may not know) I love soup and am happy to eat it even in the spring and summer! 

I was recently introduced to a delicious asparagus soup at a friend's dinner party! I couldn't wait to get the recipe and share!

Green Asparagus Asparagus photo and picture

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Shopping With Dogs at TJ Maxx



How do you feel about shopping in a supermarket or clothing store such as TJ Maxx and people putting their dog or dogs in the shopping carts? 

Lately, I see it all the time in my local stores.

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Turmeric Tea -3 Ways


Crop hands adding turmeric in glass of hot water in morning Stock Photo

When you are feeling under the weather, brewing up some turmeric tea using ground turmeric powder is very soothing and comforting for your throat and stomach. I'm sharing three ways to make it. 

Monday, April 1, 2024

IN MY KITCHEN APRIL

I'm joining Sherry at Sherry's at Sherry's Pickings Blog for IN MY KITCHEN April 2024 . 

Free Daffodils Flower Background photo and picture

What's IN MY KITCHEN this month? 
A friend came to visit and brought me a lovely white serving dish. I also covered some of the food I made .

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