Veganism : a lifestyle that seeks to exclude the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Our Mission: To reinforce the idea that veganism is not only beneficial for an average busy family, but downright easy. And delicious. Check back often for posts about food, thoughts, links, and more related to living in a vegan home. Oh, and if you like something, let me know!

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Ready for Spring

Wow, I cannot believe that I have not posted since January!  The last few months have been so busy, from birthdays to other events, it seems as if we have not stopped moving.  The kids have swimming and scouts and all sorts of activities.  I have been so busy at school, and every day is chock full!!!  On top of that, check out the photo of our "little" guy Ollie the Mini Potbelly...he's growing and growing :)  In light of all this, you may think...what in the world!?!?!  How can you possibly stay vegan in spite of barely having enough time to think!?!?!  Simple answer is: ROUTINE!!!  Some people may equate routine with BORING, but now me.  I demand it, and my kids thrive better when we know what to expect.  I was having such a hard time with meals and making sure that I was not doing the same thing week after week, so I typed up all of the meals that I am willing to make and my husband and the kids check off what they want and I then I take that to the grocery.  I can zip through the grocery store at high speeds when I know exactly what I am going for.  I also have a handful of staples that I get for the kids for lunch (see the post that I did on school lunches!).  So now that our busy season is slowing down, I am starting to think about gardening and community gardens...in spite of the rather unseasonal snow we had this morning!  We are making a lot of changes this year, moving the tomatoes to the back garden and such.  Anyhow, I want to send out a word or two of encouragement for anyone out there who is just getting started of their vegan adventure!!  We are coming up on our four-year vegan anniversary, and it just keeps getting better.  It's nice when your diet not only keeps you healthy (NO, I repeat, NO major illnesses for us this year!!), but is your cause as well.  Here is a quickie recipe to try (all the stuff is available at a health food store or your local grocery), and stay tuned for more...the Poplar Springs Animal Sanctuary Run For The Animals 5K is coming up, as well as the Valley Earthfest.  Till next time!
Vegan "Pups in a Blanket"
1 Pillsbury Garlic Butter Crescent Rolls (yes, it's vegan!)
1 package Smart Dogs or Tofu Pups
1 package of Tofutti "cheese" slices
Roll out a crescent roll triangle flat.  Unwrap a slice of cheese and fold it corner-to-corner so that you have two triangles.  Place one of the triangles on the crescent roll along with a tofu pup or a smart dog.  Start at the wide end and roll toward the pointed end.  Repeat this process till you run out of "dogs".  Place each "Pup in a Blanket" on a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions on the package for the crescent rolls.  Cool and enjoy with soup or vegan chili!