Once someone asked George Bernard Shaw how it was that he looked so youthful. “I don’t,” Shaw retorted. “I look my age. It is the other people who look older than they are. What can you expect from people who eat corpses?”

“We pray on Sundays that we may have light/To guide our footsteps on the path we tread;/We are sick of war, we don’t want to fight,/And yet we gorge ourselves upon the dead.”
George Bernard Shaw

One farmer says to me, “You cannot live on vegetable food solely, for it furnishes nothing to make the bones with”. And so he religiously devotes a part of his day to supplying himself with the raw material of bones; walking all the while he talks behind his oxen, which, with vegetable-made bones, jerk him and his lumbering plow along in spite of every obstacle.
Henry David Thoreau

“Flesh eating is simply immoral, as it involves the performance of an act which is contrary to moral feeling: killing. By killing, man suppresses in himself, unnecessarily, the highest spiritual capacity, that of sympathy and pity towards living creatures like himself, and by violating his own feelings becomes cruel.”
Leo Tolstoy

People often say that humans have always eaten animals, as if this is a justification for continuing the practice. According to this logic, we should not try to prevent people from murdering other people, since this has also been done since the earliest of times.
Isaac Bashevis Singer

“For my part I rather wonder both by what accident and in what state of mind the first man touched his mouth to gore and brought his lips to the flesh of a dead creature, set forth tables of dead, stale bodies, and ventured to call food and nourishment the parts that had a little before bellowed and cried, moved and lived. How could his eyes endure the slaughter when throats were slit and hides flayed and limbs torn from limb? How could his nose endure the stench?

How was it that the pollution did not turn away his taste, which made contact with sores of others and sucked juices and serums from mortal wounds? It is certainly not lions or wolves that we eat out of self-defense; on the contrary, we ignore these and slaughter harmless, tame creatures without stings or teeth to harm us. For the sake of a little flesh we deprive them of sun, of light, of the duration of life to which they are entitled by birth and being.”
Plutarch in his essay ‘On Eating Flesh’

If you declare that you are naturally designed for such a diet, then first kill for yourself what you want to eat. Do it, however, only through your own resources, unaided by cleaver or cudgel or any kind of ax.”
Plutarch

It is only by softening and disguising dead flesh by culinary preparation that it is rendered susceptible of mastication or digestion, and that the sight of its bloody juices and raw horror does not excite intolerable loathing and disgust.
Percy Bysshe Shelley, Queen Mab Notes.

Cruelty to animals is as if man did not love God.”
Cardinal John H. Newman

“Man did not weave the web of life: he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself. To harm the earth is to heap contempt on its creator.”
A Native American Chief (1854)

via Vegetarian quotes

Strix

Hi, All, Jacob shares how he gained his life back when he decided to take control and gain his health!

Here’s Jacob’s inspiring story of commitment and reward(s)

I have always struggled with my weight. Well, struggled is probably not the right word. Back when I weighed 275pounds, and during my whole climb up there, I did not fight the gain, I just let it happen.I always knew I was fat and it made me depressed and really damaged my confidence.

Finally, once I capped out at my highest weight, I decided to do something about it. I started to cut out some of the most calorically dense foods in my diet and lost about twenty or twenty-five pounds; quickly, though, I hit a standstill.

Being that this was a point in my life where changes were being made, I decided to become a vegetarian for ethical reasons. As I cut out animal products, my weight began to drop a bit. Then, I started looking into veganism and came across a website called VeganBodybuilding.com, where I learned about Dr. Fuhrman and also saw many fit and buff vegan athletes.

I appreciate fit bodies and always have, but always thought it impossible for me to have one. I began to believe I could and realized that a vegan diet and the nutritarian way are both great tools for going about this. I implemented some nutritarian concepts and began my journey into veganism.

My weight plummeted and I felt more energetic than I ever have. I stayed at my pseudo-nutritarian diet for a couple of years or so, hitting another standstill after dropping down to 160 pounds, then back up to 180 or so hovering around there for awhile.

After some frustration with my weight again, I decided to adopt the nutritarian lifestyle completely. I stopped eating several small meals a day and switched to three per day with an after workout green smoothie, as well as another green smoothie in the morning. My weight dropped down to 165, my leanest weight yet. At this time, I had more muscle than when I weighed 160, so I looked a lot better.

Also, depression has always been a struggle for me, but when I finally went full-Fuhrman, it went away completely. I am content with myself and my life almost constantly now and each day is a joy and adventure.

The nutritarian diet helped me far beyond just losing weight. My sexual endurance and desire also increased, almost too much, if I do say so myself.

My weight no longer fluctuates and I do not have to watch a scale anymore. Now, if only the lifestyle could do something about excess skin. In time, maybe…

Thanks, Jacob, for showing us how commitment and stick-to-it-iveness leads to rewards beyond expectations.

Personally, I relate a lot to your allusion to contentment: That is often a word I use to describe my sense of peace and satiety with life.

Continued success and more rewards to you! Here’s to healthy body, mind, and soul.

Greens ‘n’ Cheers!

Feel free to contact me and contribute to ETL Friday! and inspire Us!

Strix

I LOVE L.A. Yes, I do. Say what you will about it — and you will be oh-so right — but living in Southern Cali is like no other for the stunning variety of food one can obtain and locally, reducing your chances of contributing to human exploitation (which is ALL around us). Yes, the Farmers of L.A. are awesome, friendly, and generous.

I often mention that I am “Sooooooo lucky!” and, wow, even I marvel sometimes at my good fortune! To have such excellent food at my leisure…it should be this way for every living being on this planet.

Whether you live in L.A. or are visiting, check out a few — at least — of the some of the best So. California has to offer. If you happen to be cruisin’ down Sunset, step on over to the Sunday morning festival that is (just one of) the Hollywood Farmer’s Market(s).

Okay, SO…What is it?

*

Mm, awful purty!

Little fuzzy, aye?

Any ideas yet?

Ah, hangs out with some friends…on a vine…

C’mon, you green thumbers out there! Ever grown these in yer garden?

Okay, let’s crack ‘er open…

She breaches!

*

Okay, NO, it’s not my brain…

Though, I bet mine is greeeeeeeeeeeeeeen!  

Oh, wait…ANOTHER shell??

Okay, totally nude, you HAVE to know, now…No?

Yes, Yes!!!

You got it! Fresh, raw incredibly DELICIOUS Garbanzo Beans!!

Got’em at the farmers’ market! Still on the vines WOW! Forget the Lakers‘ slam dunk — this is a SCORE!!!!

Here is a pod holding 2 little ‘peas:

This one was interesting; it had one that was drying out already!

I was kind of expecting it to be more flavorful, more savory; but, instead it had very little flavor at all. What a shame

Still purty, tho

Where I first learned that they even existed was at a Whole Foods in the refrigerated section, several years ago. I fell in LOVE with them! I recall trying to convince my fellow raw-foodie enthusiasts at the time they existed, but was met with a lot of dismissive resistance! Hmph. Okay, so more for me, Nyahh Since that first time, I’ve not found them as often as I’d like; especially since I eat mostly raw. Now they are becoming more known as the blogosphere indicates!

Back to my Sunday …

So as the sun was waning, I took my bag O’ magic beans, and out to the patio…

for some chick pea pickin.’

~~~ Ahh, yes, just like back in the old country, I do recall ~~~

Just kidding, lol

So we talked and picked…

Rambled with hands busy…

and picked….

and reminisced some more…

and the bowl was filling up nicely…

…till my bowl runneth over…

…almost And while I cannot claim any “old country,” to my memoirs, relaxing, sharing, and picking over fresh legumes is quite enjoyable, and I now know why it’s so customary in some cultures to engage in such activity What a wonderful Sunday afternoon!

That evening, as every, I feasted! We feasted on fresh chick peas, fresh, first-of-season’s-sweet tomatoes (OH LORD, watch out!! I’ll be consuming loads of these cherry-sweet tomatoes through October!)

a few other simple foods (I won’t bore you further with the details ), all fresh from the farmers’ market.

And All was well with the world.

~ *** ~

Speaking of the advantages of living in California, I have also the good fortune to have lived in various neighborhoods around Los Angeles, all rich with different ethnicities; ways; and customs. Flourishing and bringing life, culture, and wonderful experiences to us natives, they have contributed so much to Us All One such neighborhood had various Peoples from the region of the Middle East — O, the food! The markets! The colors! I recall running past many a group of two or more elderly women, dressed in traditional clothes, obviously brand new to this country, speaking and laughing in their native tongues. Along side them, large, old wooden buckets filled with some vegetable or other… They shelled and trimmed as they socialized, right there in their front yards;  no doubt a custom.

SO, my bowl full…

…my heart and soul too , and I am grateful — and…

Sooooooooooooooo lucky!!!

So you can’t get these locally, you say?   Well…

I am so excited to see these *FINALLY* catching on. Trader Joe’s had/has them every-so-often, shelled, in frozen bags, then — pOOf! Gone! One of things about TJ’s I don’t like >:(

There is a brand which is making itself more available around the U.S., “CaliFresh.” You can see they are in several chain markets — click here for those — so, “Yay” for that!! Even though not organic, you may want to give them a try. These are also available in Mexican markets, again, not organic, but why not try some? OR, heck, if you’re into gardening, how about trying to grow your own?! I’d love to. I’ve grown green peas and I can only hope fresh garbanzos would be so ridiculously easy! Those peas, by the way, were the BEST EVER, as I imagine your own,  home-grown foods are

I found fresh to freeze well too. Some may prefer a quick steam, unless one is accustomed to the taste of, say, raw peas — then the raw chickpeas would be quite enjoyable. Either way, it can hardly be argued that these are not the freshest chickpeas you have ever eaten! They are, to my delight, Greeeeeeeeeeeeen And a gorgeous green!

If you can find these at a farmer’s market, grab ‘em. The worst that can happen is that you end up blending them into a green smoothie — now how’s that for tipping the odds? But trust me –  You will love these whether steamed or raw. Bean salad anyone?

The flavor, by the way, is much milder than any other raw legume. It has a nuttiness to it which is faintly reminscent of the dried cooked you know so well; however, this is just straight out unique tasting — highly enjoyable. Can you tell I like ‘em? That familiar “raw” taste is also not dominant like so many raw peas and beans; these are softer than you will probably be expecting. Loads of flavor; no spicing required.

To cook these are also quite enjoyable, as it takes mere minutes to simply steam — Yep, minutes! And so delectable. Much like fava beans — another utterly delicious bean fresh, look for them and GET SOME — the quick cooking is a nice change. I have always loved my summer bean salads with fresh favas. DElicious, I promise you!

These green chick peas can be eaten and served just like you would edamame — either in their pods, or shelled — depending how you find them. I prefer in their pods, but shelled are great too. Just steam them or you can drop them in boiling water for a few minutes, if you like. No salt needed, these are delish on their own; however, spicing them, of course, gives you much more variety and you can prepare delectable little delights with the simplicity and ease of marinating in various spice blends.

Seriously, I’ll say it again: I don’t know anyone who eats better than I do .  And you can feel that way too! The changing of the tastebuds is one of the more dramatic results from eating healthfully and abstaining from salt, and chemically-flavored and processed “stuff” often labeled as “food.” I’ve never eaten better in my life, not only nutritionally but also taste-wise.

I mentioned this before also: When you are willing to give up the foods you (think you) love, crave, “can’t do without forever,” you GAIN so much more! I promise!

Okay, I’m storing up:

I’m loading up on these babies to take me through the off season –  into the fridge, and into the freezer, sealed extra well for long storage.

So look for these! It’s that time of the year — Right Now! Go get some! Eat simply. No need for complicated meals! Try them in recipes or plain — Mmmmm, fresh chick peas! Give ‘em a try!

Strix

I tried making tahini with unhulled sesame seeds in my 2007 VitaMix. Disaster. I literally spent 46 minutes — yes, I timed it — trying to get it to work, continually scraping and blending, etc.

Here are some pictures on how to easier identify hulled from unhulled:

**

Hulled sesame seeds have their outer shells removed. They are sometimes referred to as just sesame seeds or as “white” sesame seeds. This makes the smoothest butter, or “tahini,” and is what is most often found creamed, jarred in stores.

Unhulled sesame seeds maintain their shells. Referred to as “brown” sesame seeds or “whole” sesame seeds. More nutritious than white, they also carry a bit of bitterness from their shells. Rinsing and draining alleviates much of that tannic flavor.

The third type of sesame, is the beautiful black

Black sesame is the most nutritious of the three. It tastes slightly different; some think it’s stronger.

**

Hulled sesame butter is easy peasy and is actually done quite easily in a food processor, as I demonstrated previously. Above, you see it makes a nice thick butter. The easy flowing tahinis you find in stores have oil added.

Unhulled, with the VitaMix, proved more difficult (The following were unhulled, soaked, with and without added water):

This is actually not too bad even with quite a bit of texture; but it still has a lot of whole seeds.

Even tried with unhulled black sesame seeds (VitaMix):

Tried with my dependable Blendtec…

Nope…

Still lots of whole seeds that  just don’t want to blend!

However, the good news is, it’s not really so big a deal to have some texture,  depending on your recipe. You can still use these chunky butters! If, for example, you are making a dressing or hummous, it will blend up quite nicely with the other ingredients, and it seems to lose its texture. I made a  dressing with it and it came out smooth.  But this shows why the nut and seed butters in stores contain added oil — though they do not have to list it as an ingredient — they need it to get that creamy smooth texture. It’s a similar process with my precious, beloved   coconut BUTTER (not oil), they add oil in order to cream it because coconut is VERY, VERY fibrous; and it is impossible to get a creamy emulsion from mature coconuts by simply blending the flesh (confirmed via email on several brands, despite how the advertising “sounds”) I’d like to try, however, in my juicer sometime…hmmm…:)

Next, I decided, against the odds, to give the processor a try

No go

*

~ My recommendation is to not add water or liquids to any, which includes not using wet, soaked seeds ~

The water diminishes the flavor and, in my opinion, does something…well, weird to the texture.

*

Okay, now here’s the zinger –

My little Personal Blender did a better job!

Check it out…

Results for unsoaked, unhulled dry brown sesame seeds…

Pretty darn good! Whoa, much better than the power blenders. No whole seeds left in just a few minutes of blending!

Of course, it makes small amounts only. This is actually better, in my opinion, because it’s not good to keep buttered seeds and nuts stored for long periods anyway. This way, you can make and use small amounts and not have to pay high prices for a large jar, when you only really need small amounts.

The Personal Blender, aka “Tribest Personal Blender” is similar to a “Magic Bullet” and other such small blenders. They are even less powerful than some coffee grinders! If you have such a blender or small  grinder give it a try.

~ Be sure to use the flat blade for buttering. ~

Now, don’t expect it to be exactly creamy smooth  like the storebought UNLESS you add oil. And, really, unhulled seeds are, naturally never going to render as smooth as hulled because they have all their fiber in the stead of more seed and oil. Even my store-bought black tahini isn’t completely smooth, and, in fact, one manufacturer even states that because it is unhulled, it is not as smooth (can’t recall which brand that was).

~ * ~

NOW, I don’t particularly like the idea of not pre-soaking because there is the bitterness in the brown sesame hulls, which some don’t like (and which may contribute to inadequate absorption of its nutrients). So I thought I’d try soaking and sprouting to see if this improved the small blender tahini texturally and flavorwise.

The good news about sprouting sesame is that it takes only a few hours of soaking! SproutPeople instructs as short as 2 hours and up to 8. Since they are small, you don’t want to drown them . They also say that just the soak and allowing them to dry is enough to remove the enzyme inhibitors, meaning you don’t have to do the rinse, drain, rinse drain over days to get increased nutrition and remove most of the bitterness, and if you don’t want to sprout them. I decided to soak for 4 hours and sprout them at least a full day, then let them dry. (Note: white, hulled sesame seeds cannot be sprouted)

So it went like so:

Soak for 4 hours.

Drain, rinse; spread onto cheesecloth or other sprouting surface to sprout. Be sure if your surface  has holes such as a mesh, they are not too large that the tiny sesame seeds fall through! You’ll be very frustrated (and curse me!) if you lose them all on the floor

Rinse and drain as needed (depending on environmental/weather conditions) 2-4 or more hours till bedtime.

Just sprout until you see a tiny tail emerge or a small bud. They get bitter very quickly; so the smaller the sprout the better.

Let them dry out, and use right away, or store in the refrigerator and use within a couple days. You can also thoroughly dry them with a dehydrator and keep for long storage. I’d probably leave them in the fridge or freezer, but if *completely* dry can be kept in a cool, dry place.

*

Rinse…

Soak for 4 hours…

Drain

Then rinse well again.  Final drain….

Spread out to sprout for 24 hours or till tiny sprouts or buds appear…

Here’s a closeup…

Cutie little sprouts!

Same for the Black…

Rinse

Soak

Drain

Lay out to sprout –here I used cheesecloth:

Rinse

Sprout…

closer look …

Black Beauties!

Dry

After that final rinse, they should be left to dry out before blending or before storing.

If you wish to speed up drying after the last rinse, then you can put them outside (make sure it’s not windy!), covered, or in a place with good air flow. I like to dry my sprouted seeds in the dehydrator at a very low temp — like 80- to 90-degrees — which is just quicker and more convenient.

Okey Dokey, now they’re ready! Let’s see what happens…

Into the small blender with the flat blade go they…

Blend ‘er up…

Couple a scrape downs…

and…

Excellent! Within seconds, all the seeds are blended. They seem to have benefited from the sprouting process, as well: The taste was better, having rinsed and sprouted off the bitterness.

Only stones left unturned — I tell ya, this has been a pain! — now are, one, to try large batch of sprouted and dried seeds in the power blenders, and, two, giving the power juicer a whirl.

So here again are the keys to good-tasting, creamier unhulled sesame butter or tahini:

Organic, fresh whole unhulled seeds

Rinsing

Soaking

Sprouting*

Drying, thoroughly

Creaming in small batches

Using a small blender with the flat blade

*If you don’t want to sprout, it will still work (as I demonstrated above), following all the other steps, but will render a more “toothy,” textured butter: It will not leave any whole seeds.

There you go. Mystery solved The rinky-dink little blender out performs the power blenders! Enjoy your hulled white OR unhulled, brown, or black, home-prepared sesame butters and tahinis!

Strix

Laugh To Live   I definitely subscribe to this one. I think, it’s something even children know, instinctively, if not intellectually. I mean, I certainly did It’s sad how we forget about our childhood wisdom. Good news is, wisdom is there and doesn’t just go away. It’s recoverable, I think! I sure can use all the wisdom I can get!

Good for the mood; and, reportedly good for health, literally! Cool Beans .

Live longer? Maybe. Forming positive, loving relationships can be key; if not, it certainly makes life more filled with joy — who wouldn’t want that? Yea, I’ll buy that

How can we add more humor and belly laughs to our lives?!

Here’s another to give you a chuckle today:

Now tell me you didn’t smile after these vids!

There is SO much to be worried about, so much to stress about, so much to be unhappy about — give yourself a break! How about actively seeking some good? Health is not just all about food! You know, sometimes all it takes is a smile. I’ve had my day made by a simple smile from a stranger. I try to do the same for others. Sometimes, when I’ve just smiled at someone, I see their entire face change! It looks as if a load has just been lifted from them. And I recognize it! I’ve felt that too. Have you? A simple smile Power!

Here are some things to read — just for giggles

What do you do for laughs? What makes you laugh? Please share! I can always use another laugh or smile!

Have a fabulous, silly, smiley-infused, laughable ( ) day!

Strix

Okay, it’s been a LONG time since I’ve sewn Way too many  months since this stitch witch has sewn a darned thing! Since I moved, nada — unless you count hand sewing one of Noodles’ suits that he chewed up. And, of course, me being me, I’ve got a backup of “must makes,” complete with patterns galore awaiting me!

For summer, of course, I want simple, quick stuff, though I’m very into summer dresses, but have a hard time finding patterns I like, much less the proper sizes — double UGH!…AND, finding perfect fits in stores is really, really hard for me…I seriously need a class on pattern adjustment! Or better — pattern making. Hmmm…maybe I should do that this summer. Time, time…

Funny thing is, I have no “expertise” altering patterns — honestly, I’d be afraid to say that I know how! It’s so tricky — and yet, I adjust stuff I make all the time…haha. Not that it’s done “properly”… Oh, to be a pro!

Anywho, so many styles, so little time! Here are a few I’m liking this year; you’ll see a definite theme…

First, this one isn’t a favorite dress, really; what I like is the sleeves and bodice…okay, I know…let’s see…okay, what I don’t like is — something about the collar…not sure! But there’s something I love about this dress; yet something that bothers me. Maybe it’s the cross over??? Probably a “No” after all

Botanique Dress

Cute shoes, though!

Okay, next…

I LOVE this dress  AND I love the fabric! Love that blue — more at indigo; reminds me of the blue and white porcelain, famously attributed to the Ming Dynasty. Interestingly, it actually originates from the Middle East.

Personally, I prefer this gorgeous Japanese porcelain. That little hibachi costs over $400. Ha! Okay, off track again

Back to the dresses:

Three In One Dress

It’s called 3-In-1, though it’s only 2. I think it’s adorable, but elegant. Could I wear it? I think so. I do like the length. I think it could go with some (nice) sandals or heels. Would love to find a pattern! This one doesn’t look difficult to make, actually…it’s the friggin fabric that would send me high-tailing it on my broom! That fabric is tough to work, lemme tell ya. Anything slippery is gonna work ya  — ya las’ nerve, that is!

Speaking of fabric, lol,

this is one I’ve had for a while, just sittin’! It looks quite a bit like the pattern on the dress! The fabric, however, is thick, too heavy, and not conducive to such a dress.  I love it, though, but still haven’t come up with the perfect use for it…I don’t want to “waste” it (roll eyes). Initially, I liked it for an apron; but then when I realized I need(ed) a new sewing machine cover, I thought that would be nice…Hmmm….what do you think? Apron vs machine cover? Help me out, Folks!

Next one, I LOVE. I am thinking this will take me through Autumn! Top it with a nice sweater or jacket, and appropriate footwear…yeah…

Beaute Du Jour

Since my favorite colors are Autumnal, I just love this fabric print too. Really like this type of sleeve. Interestingly, normally, I despise ties/bows or scarf-like, around-the-neck-area stuff; but it works for me here. This one, though — speaking of work — will totally work me! That piping…eeGADS…and the flimsy-ish fabric…uhhhhm…I dunno, Folks. Can I do it?!!??! I’d love to make it! Maybe I should just buy it, haha. Def, my favorite.

This is called a jeans dress, but it’s a soft denim…

Tencel Blue Jeans Dress

Not really a fave; but I love the simplicity and comfy-ness of this type of dress. This is the kind you literally throw on with some sandals and go. No adornments, no belts, accessories, etc. Good for lounging on the patio or just puttering Easy to make too! Varying the length would be nice.

Lastly, I like this as well. The colors are great; but not my favorite print…

Marrakesh Cotton Dress

I like that it’s cotton; but other fabrics could work very nicely. (Cute sandals!) Another one not so easy…for moi. Would be a lot of work for me…I think. I could use the practice on the skirt, though! I do buy patterns for that reason, actually — simply for practice!

Okay, next, I am going to attempt — ATTEMPT, mind you — to make a swim suit…yes, it must be emphasized. I don’t imagine I’ll be wearing it! I’ve never made a swimsuit, and working with spandex doesn’t inspire confidence! But, how else to learn?

Here are some suits I like, for various reasons:

Charlotte, by Shan, 2008 Collection

Like the coverage! Haha. I’m not big on my butt hanging out — in fact, I prefer nothing “hang” at all! I like full coverage; I like to be comfortable, and not constantly worrying about how “stuff” looks or how, with each step, each movement, I’ve got to adjust, pull, or fix  something. You know the deal. I don’t wanna think about it, you know?

Next –no, I do not like a bikini for me What I do like is the top….

Papillon, by Tissage 2009

It looks secure and has good coverage; so comfy. I also happen to really like straps that tie around the neck; they seem to look best on me, I think; I like them for dresses too. A pattern for this type shouldn’t be hard to find.

Now this is totally cute!

Euphoria Martini by Tara Grinna 2009

I’d love this: I would, however, prefer a small boy short .

And speaking of shorts…

Blue Skipping Stones by Swim Systems 2009

I’d wear this in a heartbeat! No altering needed…well, maybe a little nip-tuck on the V-neck area Or rather, maybe a little stretch-widen…yeah. Lol. Love the shorter top to show off the cutie shorts. I’ve seen similar patterns for blouses like this. Would be cute as a non-swimsuit: just pick some nice easy-breezy cool fabric. Nice!

I like this one, buuuuuut…

Jet Set by Asha DeMarco

Something about it is a turn-off…Certainly, I do not like the colors…but there’s something else…Okay, I do like the top/straps; like the one-piece; the bottom’s not bad…I think it’s the cut of the center/sides ?? No, I like that…I think. Hmmm…maybe it’s the pattern, too? Or and/or colors. I’d like to see this suit in a different color, same pattern; a different pattern; and in a solid as well.

This one is also nice…

Sea Club by Lidea 2009

…but I have to admit the color is a big influence . I love oranges and orange hues. I prefer the shorts style of the Blue Skipping Stones suit above; though, this would be okay. The little tie works here.

And then of course a good cover! I really like this tunic:

Good Karma by OndadeMar 2009

VERY cute! There are so many nice tunics. I like long ones, too. The one above is nice with the embroidery embellished fabric. Very cute and probably not too diffucult. This would be a fun one to make. Lots of fabrics to go crazy and make a ton! Would be cute as gifts, too. I could (and have) wear this with some boy-style shorts and be good Definitely comfortable and no need to feel self-conscious in tunics.

Of course, a cool top and good pair ‘o’ shorts is always reliable! Slap on some sandals and I’m good to go.

Okay, so now I have to get to the fabric store and start lookin’! I hate purchasing patterns online. I’m sure I could find something in-store. Then it’s on to finding vegan, and as-earth-friendly fabric as possible that I like…daunting, but doable: there are actually more and more earth-friendly and organic fabrics coming to market — yay! Gotta dig, though.

Oh, did I mention I still haven’t gotten my sewing room completely unpacked and organized?
ACKkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!

Time, time….

Okay, so what are you wearing this season, with your new ETL-Nutritarian bod? Please share!

Ahh…eating well has so many benefits! Eat your heart out Valerie Bertinelli! Who  needs Jenny Craig frankenfoods??!!

–

Strix

Barely There, "Invisible Look, Wirefree Bra"

The claims that bras are not healthful for women have been around for ages. Whether you subscribe or not, the points are compelling and worthy of, at least, thoughtful consideration. Personally, I go back and forth on this one — have for years now.

Upon first hearing about it, it makes sense; however, the “science” is not so firmly behind it. On the other foot, “science” has never been all that reliable when it comes to women’s issues — recall that menstrual issues were “in our heads,” and We were, of course, simply (or “simple”) “hysterical.” (Is there a word more sexist than “hysterical”?) Weaker and all.

I do not now, nor have I ever had my faith based in science; it is just as fallible as any other “opinion,” in my opinion . Subject to continuous change. Yes. And it does, does it not?

I go with my experience first.  “Guts” maybe or “intution” is a far more reliable barometer for me. Which does not in any way negate someone else’s experience and truth, even as it is in direct contrast or opposition to my own.

So all this to say, I do believe there is something unhealthful about bras — and certainly, ill-fitting, poorly designed bras. Still, we are conditioned to them, yes? I mean, not just in terms of society and what’s “appropriate”; but, really, to comfort. I hate to say it, but there is a measure of comfort to wearing them; as there is to not .

I imagine this comfort is more than physical, though; and perhaps borne of conditioning for acceptance, socially and culturally. Too bad, really; I hate being the product of such. But, there it is.

So far as the charges about bras suffocating the lymph nodes, I interpret this as a feeling I get occasionally of mild anxiety: it translates into me feeling like “I ‘must’ get this bra off, now,” and gives a mental/emotional feeling of being sufffocated/smothered — very uncomfortable. As well, the feeling is physical — one of confinement and suffocation, as if in a straightjacket (not that bad, of course, but you get me, right?) This happens a bit more often now than it did in my 20’s; however, it’s not something chronic. Both those sensations together produce an anxiousness unlike any other in my experience. Not sure I’m making sense, here — anyone relate?

Lately, I’ve taken to not wearing a bra much at all at home — and, in fact, out as well (for shame! Never would I have done this when a foolish “child” ) In the past, I never-ever-ever went the day braless! Only to sleep, really. Oh, lordy, I recall my mother wearing a sleeping bra, haha. Product of the ’50’s, for sure, was/is Ma . On the other foot, I see the value in such bras: one, they are generally not confining or uncomfortable; two, they can keep things within a safe area ; three, for large-breasted women, they can offer great relief. My mother falls into the last category, as well as being a proper 1950’s product . I can relate to bras and comfort on this level: I also do not liking bouncing around and falling out of clothes; so wearing a bra is not completely a “bad” concept, to me.

Still, I am feeling increasingly more comfortable without than with — is this just “getting older”? Hmmm. Or, perhaps, generally “becoming more comfortable with my body”? That’s a possibility, as I’ve experienced that growth in stages — exercise, for example shot me to a new level of body consciousness AND confidence — oh.Yeah. CONFIDENCE. Is there anything more wonderful than climbing the ladder of confidence? Not sure the bra/braless thang is confidence, though…haha.

I read once that wearing a bra — in contrast to what they are supposed to do — serves to promote, not just poor breast health, but also sagging. Sounded strange, but, the explanation was something about the tightening and un-naturally “lifting,” “separating,” and general manipulating into un-natural positions, etc., and then releasing, which is much more of a jarring to the tissues than going all day on regular errands and daily life without one. Interesting. Can’t recall where I read that. I’m sure it’s online somewhere.

For the past several years, now, I have been wearing exclusively NON-wire bras — seriously, it must have been a misogynist who designed the oh-so-fabulous “underwire bras” we so desperately need (male or female, doesn’t matter, they hated Womyn!) They are truly objects of torture. Now, I have no problemo believing THOSE are bad for health.

Some claims go so far as to state a correlation with breast cancers. To be honest, it’s not within the realm of UNreason to think so. I certainly would not be surprised one iota if they contribute.

One bra (pic above) I like right now is this one. I have a few . No wires. I’m not into too-too much “support” bras as that indicates confinement and too much squishy-squish. (In f act, I LOVE Barely There under garments, in general; the under pants they offer are so comfortable, when I shop for them, I end up bringing home a huge bagful. I’ve got, I think, all styles!) I like being held in place but not armor! I save the armor for running (best *ever* running bra)

So, of course, I will always wear a bra for running! Not sure it actually goes to health, though; but it certainly appeals to my sense of aesthetics — so, yes, I am a product of, a slave, even to, yes, SOME culturally imposed norms, to my chagrin, though it may be. So slap me

Like I said, I could talk bra for ever, Any thoughts to share?

Strix

Pretty darned green! Another Super Cruciferrific GJGS…

Ahh, never do my GJGS’s fail me. My 36-ounce Green Juicie Green Smoothie consisted of…

Waterbless…

Waterbless Gams and Toots (ies )  …

Collard me green…

Dino-mo Kale…

Bok’s Choice (Grade A)…

Fruit:

Pome granted

I got them Blues…(the good kind, Y’All)

Rasps (Red American Splendor Princesses)…

Oh, Meyers…

No-Flaws berries…

HarbinGinger (of health-wealth)

and, of course …

YUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUMYUM

Greens are 

Strix

*

This was inspired by my love of the scent of — can you love a scent? Okay, my extreme like of – the scent of grapefruit essential oil; but I have never been too fond of lavender. I used to really dislike it, but have come to appreciate its uses with a delicate hand.

I have also come to adore chamomile essential oil. Just hearing about it didn’t thrill me: I thought of cheap chamomile tea, which, from tea bags, dried, ground, and packed who-knows-when doesn’t exactly send me. However, having made chamomile from fresh flowers…Oh, yes, TOtally different taste, fragrance, and experience; so, I had an inkling the e.o. may be different when concentrated. So I tried it. Since then, I have used the essence of chamomile with great success in lotions and personal products, and it is one of my absolute favorites now . It seems you can rarely go wrong with it. Following is a very simple but lovely combination.

Garden Blossom Perfume:

Organic ingredients are preferable.

Combine:

18d Grapefruit Essential Oil

10d Chamomile (R.) Essential Oil

Allow to ripen 1 week, shaking gently, daily.

Then add:

60d Jojoba Oil, (or other unscented oil, such as avocado, almond, or grapeseed).

Shake gently.

Makes about 1 tsp perfume

Variation: Add 1d Lavender Essential Oil

*~*

Since I liked the the above fragrance, I decided to build on it. I started this about 1 1/2 months ago as well, and it’s perfect now

My internet friend inspired the inclusion of ginger; so this is named after her: So, to Picks, who I hope is feeling better and getting stronger each day!

Kelleen’s Garden:

18d Grapefruit Essential Oil

10d Chamomile (R) Essential Oil

Let ripen 1 week

Then add:

3d Ginger Essential Oil

1d Jasmine Essential Oil

1d Lavender Essential Oil

Ripen 1 week (at least), gently shaking daily.

Add

60d Jojoba Oil(or other unscented carrier oil) for perfume.

Store in glass; plastic absorbs and interferes with essential oils.

Makes @ 1 tsp.

Alternate: Use the essential oil mixture(sans the carrier oil) in body spritzer below

Or use to make Pixie Dust Take III

This was actually somewhat of an accident: I did not mean to  add Lavender; instead, I accidentally picked it up when reaching for something else. I did not like the fragrance at first; however, after ripening,  fell for it . This is a testament to the need for “ripening” of hand-made products. This actually smells better the longer it sits — meaning, this smells better now at the over 1-month mark than it did at 2 weeks.

Ginger is very difficult to work with, I found! Lots of misses; few hits. It needs to be used lightly; it’s quite strong. However, I’m already thinking of a ginger fragrance for Autumn and Winter, for which I think it is well suited

.

~***~

My favorite dusting powder is made with Amber, my absolute, hands-down favorite all-time fragrance — and color! I just adore it. I use my Amber powder regularly, as well as an amber fragrance. But, change is good

So, here is another ginger inspired recipe. This is a much more personal preference recipe — mine, of course, ha!; Fragrance appreciation is such an individual thing

Pixie Dust

Or should that be “Picksie Dust”??

Cornstarch, Arrowroot, Kuzu, and Tapioca Starch can be used interchangeably.

~

1/2 C White Rice Flour/Starch*

2 TB Orris Root Powder

1/2 C + 2 TB Tapioca Starch

10d Chamomile Essential Oil (R.)

1d Jasmine Essential Oil

2d Ginger Essential Oil

Instruction:

Combine powders.

Add the chamomile and whisk well.

Add the Jasmine and whisk well

Add the Ginger and whisk well.

Place in a glass receptacle, cover tightly, and allow to ripen 1  week, shaking daily. (Or, place in a container with powder puff or a shaker powder container)

Shake gently before each use.

***

Pixie Dust, Take II

1 C Cornstarch

1/4 C White Rice Flour/Starch*

9d Grapefruit Essential Oil

4d Myrrh Essential Oil

2d Ginger Essential Oil

3d Chamomile Essential Oil (R.)

1d Lavender Essential oil

Instruction:Combine Powders.

Add Grapefruit Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Myrrh Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Ginger Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Chamomile Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Lavender Essential Oil; whisk well.

Place in a glass receptacle, cover tightly, and allow to ripen 1  week, shaking daily. (Or, place in a container with powder puff or a shaker powder container)

Shake gently before each use.

*NOTE: White rice flour is encouraged because it has a little graininess which is desirable to disperse the starches more efficiently. Otherwise, it becomes very “dusty,” and concentrated and not easy to apply. An alternative would be finely ground oats; but it’s not quite as fine as rice.

*

*** ~ ***

LUSH'S Silky Underwear Dusting Powder - Lushusa.com

*

Bonus Recipe: My “Silky” Sub

A Faux “Silky Underwear Dusting Powder”

This is a copycat of Lush’s, luscious “Silky Underwear Dusting Powder” — hated the name; but fell for the scent! So I did my best to recreate it

(LUSH – has some nice products — loaded with vegan goodies;  vegan-marked for convenience, as well!)

1/2 C Cornstarch

1/2 TB Oat Flour, finely ground, or white rice flour

3d Jasmine  Essential Oil

1d Vetiver (“Vetivert”) Essential Oil

* Rub in a small amount of fragrant raw, virgin Coconut Oil OR raw Cacao butter (fragrant)

Instruction:

Combine powders.

Add Jasmine Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Vetiver Essential Oil; whisk well.

Add Coconut Oil/Cacao butter,* melted; whisk well.

Place in a glass receptacle, (or container with powder puff or a shaker  powder container) cover tightly, and allow to ripen 1  week, shaking daily.

Shake gently before each use.

*You can use good-quality, raw, virgin coconut oil (the fragrant kind) or raw (fragrant) cacao butter– either works nicely. As well, a cocoa butter — again, fragrant — would work. Melt gently;Disperse throughout. Start with a teaspoon or so.

You can also leave this out; it’s still fabulous . But do try to include it. The vetiver — which is *extremely* potent, will be a bit stronger.

**

Easy Body Spritzer General Recipe (adapted from Herb Companion magazine):

1 C Water, Distilled

10d Essential Oil of choice, or combination (or more, to preference)

Shake well and decant into a bottle affixed with a spritzer top.

Shake well before each use.

*

Enjoy :^)

Strix

“Saturday Night Bath”

Oh, no…

Ma-ah-om! Not now; not while I’m wet and nude! You know I hate taking pictures…

Geez…Must you?

Okay. Happy?

~ *** ~
Mama Bird