Monthly Archives: February 2013

Thursday Thoughts

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Happy Valentine’s Day to my one and only, Seth. Even though we’re separated again this  year, what we hold in our hearts is what matters.Seth and I, Vegas

“Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.”

–Bob Marley

Bacon Butternut Squash Hash

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Last night I was crazy productive in the kitchen, apparently I was feeling it.

I had a pan with a little leftover bacon fat in it, so I decided I needed to use it, and this is what I came up with, inspired by things in the kitchen.

Bacon Butternut Squash Hash

I heated the bacon fat, and added the diced yellow onion and bacon. I had a package of turkey bacon (not a fan) that needed to be used, so I simply stacked the pieces on top of one another and sliced it into strips. I seasoned with kosher salt/pepp (just a little), and let it simmer in the bacon fat for about 15-20 minutes.DSC_0274

Then I added the bag of cubed squash and sautéed until the squash cubes were soft.DSC_0275 DSC_0278 I let it cool, and then divided into containers for a lunch today, and a breakfast tomorrow.

It’s fabulous:

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Coconut Sauteed Artichoke Hearts

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I completely ran out of fresh vegetables toward the end of last week, so this quick dish was inspired by what I did have, a can of artichoke hearts! I love artichoke hearts, but rarely eat them as I’m not a fan of anything canned, and I can’t seem to find ANY that don’t have some sort of nitrate or preservative (if you have found them, please let me know!!).

Coconut sautéed Artichoke Hearts

I simply dropped a dollop of coconut oil in the sauté pan, then took each artichoke heart into my hand and squeezed it over the sink to eliminate the excess water, then dropped in the pan. I really think they’re best mashed up in your hand like this, as they don’t have to remain intact to taste good and then your sauté doesn’t get too watery. I let mine get a little toasty or caramelized, and they are SO GOOD! Last, I seasoned with kosher salt/pepp.DSC_0198

This would be a very easy and different side dish to any meal, and they really take on the texture and look of scrambled eggs.

“Natural Flavors”

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In my quest for health and wellness, I’m trying to understand everything I put in my body and what’s an issue for me. I don’t eat a lot of things that have an ingredient list, but one thing I do consume a lot is hot tea. I love it, I think it’s beneficial for my health, and has antioxidant properties.

I ran across a huge sale on Tazo teas recently and was thrilled, so I stocked up! I bought several boxes and have been enjoying them, but upon further investigation, I’d like to know in the ingredients what they include in “natural flavors.” My first thought is if you add something back in, it isn’t natural, and second, this ingredient (I don’t like calling it that, it’s more like a category) can include a whole mess of stuff. So I emailed Tazo.

My email to Tazo on January 31:

Hello!

I am an avid tea drinker and LOVE Tazo teas, however, I am discovering some allergies to certain spices/additives. Can someone please provide a breakdown of the “natural flavors” listed in most Tazo teas, or what makes up that category? I know that “natural flavors” typically encompasses different things. I realize they may vary by kind, but I really appreciate your help.

Thanks so much,

Linds Swanson

Their reply on January 31:

Hello Lindsay,

Thank you for taking the time to write.  Your search for enlightenment into the world of Tazo is to be admired.  With this first step on the path, may you find answers you seek.

While we understand that some customers may have a need to know specific ingredient information prior to consuming a product, unfortunately we are unable to provide more in-depth information than what is currently available in the ingredient statement. If there are concerns about this product possibly containing an ingredient that you do not wish to consume, we would recommend that product not be consumed.

Thanks again for writing us.  If you ever have any questions or concerns in the future, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Tazo!

Brian

A Tea Enthusiast Advisor

Seems pretty corporate to me, no? Honestly, I guess I wasn’t that shocked, but as soon as my Tazo teas are gone, I’m not buying anymore. Things like this are frustrating for me, when I’m trying to pinpoint and solve issues with my health and body (do the “natural flavors” include nightshades?). Furthermore, if you won’t tell a consumer what you’re putting in a product, it’s a red flag for me. I think I have a right to know what I’m eating and drinking, right, especially when I’m paying for it?

So long, Tazo!