tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88507032751901747712024-03-09T18:46:07.209-08:00A Foothill Home CompanionMollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.comBlogger615125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-83113616126086375562013-08-10T05:00:00.000-07:002013-08-10T05:00:06.347-07:00Time to Say Goodbye<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/9473114877/" title="IMG_2406 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2406" height="427" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3687/9473114877_736cf3459a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I've rearranged my bedroom, dining room, and living room. I've cleared out closets and emptied drawers. I've dropped off several truck loads of stuff at the donation center. I've created space and simplicity. <br />
<br />
Yet there's one thing I've been hesitant to get rid of. I've been ignoring it for months now, but today is the day I pack it away for good.<br />
<br />
It's time to say goodbye to A Foothill Home Companion. <br />
<br />
The era of the family blog has passed for me and my family. My children no longer want me to take their picture and tell their stories. I appreciate their boundaries, and I too am creating some of my own. <br />
<br />
I'm ready for a new space. A space all my own. Spare, clean, and simple, like my newly arranged rooms. <br />
<br />
It will likely take me a while to settle in, but feel free to stop by and see my new digs:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://mollydunham.blogspot.com/">mollydunham.blogspot.com</a><br />
<br />
Goodbye and hello.<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-52235848819943099022013-05-10T16:59:00.000-07:002013-05-10T16:59:38.054-07:00An Ode to MineCraft, in Haiku<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8726453685/" title="an ode to minecraft by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="an ode to minecraft" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7381/8726453685_f7b0e621f8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
together they play</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
inside a virtual world </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
of their own making.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-73776052297501824612013-04-10T11:10:00.001-07:002013-04-10T11:10:31.368-07:00Listen <div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8638417398/" title="a day at the beach by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="a day at the beach" height="439" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8404/8638417398_e947044eea.jpg" width="439" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>{photo by the <a href="http://www.meatybohemian.com/" target="_blank">Meaty Bohemian</a>}</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
I am a collector of quotes. I pin them on Pinterest, like them on Facebook, and cut and paste them into my writing. Sound bites I hear on the radio, funny things my kids say, and sentences I love from books find their way to the backs of receipts, used envelopes, and sticky notes. Recently in a dark movie theater, I blindly jotted down a quote from "Oz" in the middle of my grocery list. <br />
<br />
These collected quotes are distributed all over the place - the bottom of my purse, the pocket in the car door, tucked into books and magazines. I stumble upon them when I least expect it, and sometimes exactly when I need them. <br />
<br />
Rustling through my kitchen junk drawer for a paper clip, I ran across this little gem:<br />
<br />
"Anything you dislike in others is somewhere in you."<br />
<br />
It amazes me how a few words and punctuation marks can hold together so much truth. <br />
<br />
I started playing around with this quote in my head. It's rather negative, the word "dislike". What if we replaced it with its antonym?<br />
<br />
"Anything you <i>like</i> in others is somewhere in you."<br />
<br />
Now we're getting somewhere. The original quote struck me with it's capacity to free me from judgement, the second quote fills me with the promise of acceptance. <br />
<br />
A friend at the gym recently advised me to "get out of my head". Now there's a quote worth writing across my forehead with a Sharpie. As I listened to my friend, however, I realized he was talking to himself as much as he was talking to me. He, too, is too much in his head. It occurred to me that the advice he was giving me was advice he needed himself.<br />
<br />
Let's change that original quote one more time:<br />
<br />
"Anything you <i>see</i> in others is somewhere in you."<br />
<br />
We possess the traits which we like or dislike in others. We judge and assess ourselves through judging and assessing those around us. We give others the advice or encouragement we ourselves need, perhaps even more than they need it. <br />
<br />
So listen up. Hear what you have to say. Be your own audience. Your thoughts and words are telling you something you need to know about yourself. And yes, I am talking to myself. I just needed to get out of my head and put my thoughts into words.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-32024811096796809532013-03-20T13:28:00.002-07:002013-03-20T13:28:38.320-07:00It's Spring for Me<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574782993/" title="IMG_1547 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1547" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8574782993_76139742cc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574782993/" title="IMG_1547 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575876546/" title="IMG_1529 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1529" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8376/8575876546_d29442fd81_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575876546/" title="IMG_1529 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575879352/" title="almond in bloom by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="almond in bloom" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8231/8575879352_2de38a2d77_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575879352/" title="almond in bloom by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574785503/" title="almond in bloom by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="almond in bloom" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8112/8574785503_5f759028e1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574785503/" title="almond in bloom by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575880536/" title="a bird flew into my window by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="a bird flew into my window" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8575880536_f27e4c1bc9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575880536/" title="a bird flew into my window by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575873748/" title="bess by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="bess" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8575873748_43f2577544_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575873748/" title="bess by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575875632/" title="preying mantis eggs by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="preying mantis eggs" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8519/8575875632_3ef2365c54_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8575875632/" title="preying mantis eggs by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574776835/" title="flowering quince by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="flowering quince" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8366/8574776835_837c813a24_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8574776835/" title="flowering quince by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a><i>
"I used to love fall," she said to no one in particular. "All that mortality and pangs of loneliness, but now, it's spring for me. I must be getting old." </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i></i>Joseph Monninger, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-World-As-We-Know/dp/1451606346" target="_blank">The World As We Know It</a></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's cold enough to have a fire in the wood stove and a pot of soup on the stove top, but still I want to leave the front door wide open and let Spring breeze right in. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Welcome, promise, renewal, vitality, light, growth, change. I've been waiting for you.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-43672269316037583292013-03-07T15:40:00.001-08:002013-03-07T15:40:19.682-08:00Sometimes I Forget<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8537015087/" title="open photo by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="open photo" height="458" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8537015087_bba8375bca_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"I've got a perfect body, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>but sometimes I forget.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I've got a perfect body </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>'cause my eyelashes </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>catch my sweat."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>~ Regina Spektor</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like most people, I have a laundry list of things I'd like to change about my body. Just this morning, drinking coffee in bed, I rattled off a short version of my list to my husband. I even put a price tag on such changes. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"That's the price of a car," he said.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Yep. And just like a car, I'll depreciate," I said.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I got up, made a second pot of coffee, put my ipod on the dock and put "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCvgXmg0m1g" target="_blank">Folding Chair</a>" on repeat. It's become my mantra. It got me through 30 rope climbs at the gym the other day. It got me my first muscle up today. It will get me through my first <a href="http://games.crossfit.com/athlete/144280" target="_blank">CrossFit Open</a> workout this Saturday. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"I've got a perfect body because my eyelashes catch my sweat. Yes, they do, they do."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My body does what I push it to do. Not always the first time I ask, but eventually. My body is perfect. My eyelashes do indeed catch my sweat.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Your body is perfect too. Yes, it is, it is. Work up a sweat and you'll know it's true. Yes, you will, you will. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then come and open up your folding chair next to me. We'll tear up our laundry lists and scatter them in the breeze.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-82009533329256120462013-01-24T17:29:00.000-08:002013-01-24T17:29:47.602-08:00Today I . . .<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8411961755/" title="IMG_1184 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1184" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8411961755_1667e3838f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
biked two miles,<br />
ran one mile,<br />
did 90 burpees,<br />
210 double unders,<br />
made the best berry pancakes<br />
(paleo, of course),<br />
walked my daughter through an<br />
algebraic proof of the Pythagorean Theorem,<br />
then dyed her hair red.<br />
<br />
I just started a fire and am about to make meatloaf.<br />
<br />
Who has time to blog?<br />
<br />
But I do have a minute to say hello. <br />
How are you?<br />
I am beyond well.<br />
I'm kicking ass and taking numbers.<br />
<br />
In case you're interested in my pancake recipe, here it is (sorry, no time for a picture):<br />
<br />
<b>The Best Berry Paleo Pancakes</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
3 eggs, beaten<br />
1/2 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking powder<br />
3/4 cup blanched almond flour<br />
3/4 cup frozen mixed berries, roughly chopped (or frozen blueberries)<br />
<br />
Mix first four ingredients. Fold in the frozen berries. Heat a griddle on medium low and grease with a little (or a lot) butter or coconut oil. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto grill for each pancake. Cook for a few minutes on each side until pancakes are lightly browned. Makes about 8 or 9 small pancakes. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-74672779994111092412012-12-18T17:49:00.000-08:002012-12-18T17:49:07.538-08:00What's Happening?Several friends and family members have remarked that I must have felt relieved having my kids home with me last Friday when news of the horrible school massacre hit us. It's true. I was extremely grateful that my children were busy working on math and playing with Legos while I stood in the kitchen sobbing as I listened to the news. Connecticut is a long way from here, but the tragedy hit all of us close to home. <br />
<br />
I read a few articles today on the shooting, and find myself disturbed by some of the words and phrases popping up repeatedly: survivalists, "preppers", target practice, gun range, homeschooling, introvert. These words and phrases do not necessarily define me or my family, but they are familiar in my life and among my community; maybe in yours too. Like the mother of the shooter, I too have discussed with friends about preparing for an uncertain future, I have enjoyed target practice at the gun range, and I have pulled my children out of public school. <br />
<br />
Dear "Media", should I be sleeping with one eye open?<br />
<br />
My heart aches for all of the victims as my mind tries to comprehend the inexplicable. I want to hear about the <i>facts</i> as they emerge, but I'm sickened by the knee jerk reactions promoted by the media. Even my favorite radio show, Marketplace, tried to make a point Friday evening about how there are <a href="http://www.marketplace.org/topics/life/final-note/final-note-there-are-more-58000-gunshops-us" target="_blank">almost three times as many gun shops in the United States as there are Starbucks in the world</a>. What does that even mean? That we should buy Frappuccinos, not guns? <br />
<br />
We might never make sense of what happened in Sandy Hook, or the media's coverage of the event. What I can do is grieve for those poor children and teachers, and for the mother and son who must have been terribly troubled. I can talk openly with my children about the tragedy, as well as personal safety, mental illness, guns, and legislature. I can focus on what is good and right in the world, because we can't get rid of the evil and wrong. Most importantly, I can build up what I believe is the best antidote to many of society's woes: community. We are strengthened, in good times and bad, by those around us.<br />
<br />
Are you ready for some good news? Thanks to the awesome CrossFit community I have become a part of this past year, I had the opportunity to compete in my very first athletic competition last Saturday. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8283820033/" title="first place! by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="first place!" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8283820033_44575a6cb5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My partner and I took first place among 36 co-ed teams! There's nothing quite like beating men to make a woman feel strong. It was an amazing event (sadly honoring a police officer killed in the line of duty), and I was honored to compete alongside so many strong, dedicated athletes. You can read more about the event <a href="http://www.crossfitsolano.co/2012/12/an-amazing-day.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Now that I've had my first taste of winning, I can't wait to compete again. Time to train harder so I'll be harder to beat.<br />
<br />
Final note: Among the goodies in my winner's bag was a Starbucks gift card. I will not be using it to buy Frappuccinos. I will, however, tune into <a href="http://www.marketplace.org/" target="_blank">Marketplace</a> tonight and give Kai Ryssdal another chance. Hopefully he'll stick to what he knows and avoid knee-jerk style analogies. Show me the money, Kai. <div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-44644098775005345632012-11-13T17:35:00.001-08:002012-11-13T17:35:49.465-08:00Autumnal Musings<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183513131/" title="IMG_0277 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0277" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8481/8183513131_03b843cba9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My current favorite word is "autumnal". I love how the silent "n" in autumn becomes subtly pronounced by the addition of "al". Autumnal. Say it out loud. I saw this autumnal maple leaf sticking upright in the grass when I came home from the gym this morning. I parked my bike, ran inside to grab my camera, came back out and layed on the ground to get this shot. <br />
<br />
I don't do that nearly as often as I'd like to. Why not? Frankly, I'm a little scared to be observed taking pictures. Why? I don't know. I observe my daughter taking self portraits with her ipod about a hundred times a day, and she cares not that I see. Why should I care if someone happens upon me taking a picture of a leaf? <br />
<br />
A quote ran through my head that I hadn't thought about for years:<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Do one thing every day that scares you." ~ </i>Eleanor Roosevelt<br />
<br />
Somebody recently asked me if I was scared of anything. "Less and less," I answered. It's true. The stronger I get, the less I fear, at least in terms of personal safety. For years I've been afraid to even touch a gun, but after a few trips to the range at my husband's insistence, it turns out I'm a pretty good shot. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183730717/" title="i've got guns by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="i've got guns" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8342/8183730717_797da0be6e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183730717/" title="i've got guns by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<i>Does this picture scare you? I'm a little afraid to share it!</i><br />
<br />
Yet, if I'm to be honest, there is a long list of little things that scare me. I'm rolling up my sleeves and tackling a few:<br />
<br />
<b>Public speaking.</b> At a recent 4H meeting, I stood up and made a plea to the audience to start bringing healthier snacks to community meetings. My kids were not happy about it. They love the Oreos and Hawaiian Punch that seem to be trademark 4H snacks. We'll see by the offerings on the snack table at our upcoming meeting if anybody was listening to me. <br />
<br />
<b>Sharing my creations. </b>Every once in a while I'll share something I make here, but by far most of my creations get shoved in a drawer, never to be seen by anybody but me. My husband pointed out that I don't always accept creative criticism. Yes, criticism can be scary. Sharing what I make and opening myself up to opinions makes me feel painfully vulnerable. Yet sharing my creations is liberating, and it's part of the creative process for me. When I create and share, new ideas seem to flow more freely. <br />
<br />
<b>Lifting heavy weights. </b>It is scary to lift heavy weights, especially over your head. There is a particular lift that has challenged me since starting CrossFit: the snatch. I have a mental block against this lift, but I'm determined to conquer it. I'm scared that I will hit my head with the heavy bar. A few weeks ago, I worked my way up to a 93 pound snatch. And guess what? I hit my head. Turns out it wasn't nearly as bad as I feared. Fortunately, my arms are strong enough to keep the bar from crashing down on me. <br />
<br />
<b>Teaching. </b>It seems strange that, as a homeschooling mom, I am afraid to teach. I teach every day, all day, but every day I have that nagging fear that I'm doing it wrong, that I'm making mistakes. Because, truth be told, I do make mistakes. I'm fairly confident they will both survive my inadequacies. I constantly tell them - and myself - that making mistakes is how we learn best. Let's hope I'm not mistaken.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183514679/" title="IMG_0288 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0288" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8065/8183514679_b5cdd064c6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183514679/" title="IMG_0288 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Yesterday, I taught a group of children (and several curious moms) how to can. I was so scared beforehand I even thought about canceling. I usually can alone. My kitchen is small. I'm a self taught canner who still has a lot to learn about canning. My canning pot has a rust spot. Excuses, excuses.<br />
<br />
But in the children came, and we gathered around my table, and we packed hot jars with green beans and spices, filled them with boiling brine, immersed them in a boiling bath, then waited quietly to hear the sound of canning success: <i>tink</i>. Each of the thirteen jars sealed. All ten of the children learned something new. I taught my first canning class. It was so un-scary, I'm already planning to do it again.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183726203/" title="canning labels by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="canning labels" height="402" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8063/8183726203_274e003072_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8183726203/" title="canning labels by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
How about you? Have you done something today that scares you?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-69881910917033160602012-11-03T14:03:00.000-07:002012-11-03T14:03:40.690-07:00Paleo (and Vegan) Pumpkin Chocolate Chip CookiesHere's the thing: sometimes you need a beer (or 3) and a cookie (or 10).<br />
<br />
After 14 months of paleo, my approach to this lifestyle continues to evolve. My reasons to avoid grain and sugar have certainly changed. What started as a weight loss plan has changed into a fueling strategy. Eat good food, lift heavy weights. Repeat daily. <br />
<br />
Yet on occasion, I just need a treat, whether it comes in a 12 ounce brown bottle or hot off a cookie sheet. Not that anyone is asking me to justify my treats, but here it goes: Just because it's not "paleo" doesn't mean I can't have any, and just because it is "paleo" doesn't mean I can have as much as I want. <br />
<br />
I prefer not to call my treats <i>cheats</i>, but rather <i>choices</i>. One of the many things I've learned to do in the last 14 months is to think about every food choice I make. For example, walking through Costco, I ask myself, do I really need that sample just because it's there? I figure I spare myself at least 500 calories every time I shop there now. But if they happen to have cubes of horseradish cheddar, I'm gonna eat one, and then have my kids go get me another. <br />
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It's a good thing to think about what you put in your mouth. It's also a good thing not to over think it. I don't believe there is strength in denying yourself something you want, but there's absolutely no strength in thoughtless consumption. Both extremes cause stress, and stress is NOT paleo. <br />
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So grab yourself a beer, if that's your thing too, and whip up a batch of <s>guilt</s> grain free pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. They're also dairy and egg free, so vegans can eat them too!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8151540035/" title="paleo pumpkin chocolate chip cookies by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="paleo pumpkin chocolate chip cookies" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7111/8151540035_5135fcdfbd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b>Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
1 cup pumpkin puree<br />
1 1/2 cups almond meal<br />
2 tablespoons almond butter<br />
8 dates<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1 1/2 to 2 ounces of dark chocolate, chopped into small bits<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 375. In a food processor, chop dates until they start to form a sticky puree. Add remaining ingredients, except for dark chocolate, and mix well. Add dark chocolate bits and pulse a few times to blend. <br />
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto cookie sheet (I like to use my pizza stones - they're still good for something!). Slightly flatten cookies with palm of hand (this way they look more like cookies and less like "poop", as my children like to call paleo treats). Bake for 15 to 18 minutes.<br />
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Makes about 16 cookies. <div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-59924485599991226992012-10-31T18:16:00.001-07:002012-10-31T18:16:41.073-07:00A Day Like Today<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8143240791/" title="a day like today by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="a day like today" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8143240791_803ac44787_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8143240791/" title="a day like today by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
A day spent with my kids and my husband,<br />
<br />
meeting up with friends and running into others,<br />
<br />
sipping and simmering,<br />
<br />
walking and waiting,<br />
<br />
laughing and listening,<br />
<br />
peeling and pondering -<br />
<br />
This life of mine,<br />
<br />
it's small,<br />
<br />
and enormous,<br />
<br />
and good. <br />
<br />
More to come,<br />
<br />
but for now I'm savoring today<br />
<br />
in its fullness.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8143273224/" title="savor today by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="savor today" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8143273224_a73947fdbd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-35381907982592602392012-10-09T17:32:00.001-07:002012-10-09T17:32:26.706-07:00One Man's Heaven is Another Man's Hell (and a recipe for Paleo Dutch Baby)My idea of heaven definitely includes books, and even better, children with books.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8071987280/" title="IMG_9986 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9986" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8041/8071987280_307912eee9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8072006809/" title="girl, reading by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="girl, reading" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/8072006809_0f2949eee6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8072006809/" title="girl, reading by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Here are my children, reading quietly. <br />
He is perfectly content; she can't wait until the end of the chapter. <br />
He chose his own book; her book was assigned.<br />
<br />
His idea of heaven might include stacks upon stacks of books, especially of the comic variety.<br />
Her idea of heaven might be completely free of books, especially of the historical memoir genre.<br />
<br />
I can relate to both of them. At her age, I didn't love to read either, especially assigned books. Now I can't imagine a day without at least a few minutes lost between pages. <br />
<br />
I just finished reading a short book recommended by a friend years ago, <a href="http://ernestcallenbach.com/Books.html" target="_blank">Ecotopia</a> by Ernest Callenbach. At that time, I couldn't find a copy at the library, so the book was nixed from my reading list, but not forgotten. I recently came across a yellowing, moldy copy at the thrift store for a quarter.<br />
<br />
Written in 1975, set in 1999, it is a futuristic tale of a new, utopian country formed by the succession of the West Coast from the US. A journalist visits the country as a diplomat and investigative reporter to find out if it really is the utopia it claims to be. Imagine an armed hippie revolution: strict ecological/environmental standards, a twenty hour work week, a female president, recreational marijuana use, free love, communal living, co-operative enterprises, no personal property. Will he love it or leave it?<br />
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Is it utopia or dystopia? To compare it to the last book I read, <u>Ecotopia</u> is a Randian nightmare! But it got me thinking: isn't the heart of almost every conflict, in literature and in life, just a difference of perspective? One person's heaven is another person's hell. One person's dream is another's nightmare. One person's utopia might well be another's dystopia, and vice versa. An atheist's paradise will have no churches; a believer's paradise will have no atheists.<br />
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This yin and yang conflict reminds me of one of my dad's favorite quotes: "One half of the people are here to test the other half." Politically, about one half of Americans will be disappointed no matter who wins the upcoming election. One voter's win is another voter's loss. <br />
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It's kind of sad, isn't it? Utopia is a mathematical impossibility.<br />
<br />
This quote from blogger <a href="http://karavanderbijl.com/post/32564115564/eliminate-from-your-routine" target="_blank">Kara Vanderbijl</a> slightly tips the equation for me:<br />
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"Eliminate from your routine . . . any way of thinking that promotes you to favor ideas over people."<br />
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I'm going to write that idea on a sticky note and hope that it sticks.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8071981970/" title="IMG_9861 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9861" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8318/8071981970_ecc6a344bd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8071981970/" title="IMG_9861 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
While election season has got me down, as it often does every four years, the arrival of apples has sweetened my sorrow. Who can be sad when there are Dutch Babies for breakfast? These apple pancakes are a far cry from the floury, milky treats I used to serve pre-Paleo, but for those of us who have eliminated grain and dairy from our routine, they're a protein packed treat.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8071988431/" title="IMG_9888 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9888" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/8071988431_281d15f0e0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8071988431/" title="IMG_9888 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<b>Paleo Dutch Baby</b><br />
(serves one, but recipe can be doubled or tripled)<br />
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1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil<br />
1 apple, chopped<br />
cinnamon to taste (optional)<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 tablespoons almond butter<br />
1/4 teaspoon baking powder<br />
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In a skillet, melt butter or coconut oil over medium heat. Add chopped apples and saute until tender; sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. With a stick blender or regular blender, blend eggs, almond butter, and baking powder. Pour mixture over apples, turn heat to medium low, cover and cook until the batter is just set. If you're confident with your pancake flipping skills, go ahead and flip the pancake and cook briefly. Alternatively, pop the pancake under the broiler to finish cooking the top of the pancake. <br />
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Personally, I've always loved my pancakes dry, but my kids like their Dutch Baby with a little bit of honey on top. To be honest, their idea of heaven would include good old fashioned pancakes drowning in Mrs. Butterworth's syrup. Too bad for them that my utopian ideas reign in my kitchen.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-66629828145111313032012-09-24T13:22:00.001-07:002012-09-24T14:57:28.903-07:00If This Is Wrong, I Don't Want To Be Right (and a recipe for bone broth)Is it wrong that I ate a half pound of bacon for breakfast?<br />
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Is it wrong to take a nap before noon?<br />
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Is it wrong that we're paying our son to sleep in his own bed?<br />
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Is it wrong to share pictures of a live chicken and a chicken carcass in the same post?<br />
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Don't worry, the pictures are not before and after shots.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8020858866/" title="IMG_9672 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9672" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8439/8020858866_b506bcb63c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<br />
Last night I had a dream that I met a family who also had 10 chickens. I asked how many eggs they collected every day. 14 was their answer. <br />
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Now I know this is physiologically impossible, but my dream reveals my dissatisfaction with our daily egg harvest. Our flock is laying an average of 6 eggs a day. We're eating an average of 9 eggs a day. Something is wrong with the numbers, but keeping chickens still seems like the right thing to do. <br />
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Sometimes we skip collecting eggs one day, just so we can collect more the next day. It's all about perception.<br />
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Now, about that chicken carcass . . .<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8020845543/" title="IMG_9518 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9518" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8442/8020845543_3ff41893ae_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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People at the gym have asked me how I manage to work out 6 days a week and avoid muscle cramping and soreness. My answer is simple: bone broth. Every morning before I work out, I drink a cup of chicken broth. I've been drinking it for months now, inspired by my friend, Amy, and <a href="http://www.meatybohemian.com/2011/11/just-three-things.html" target="_blank">her post about chicken feet</a>.<br />
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How does it help? I'm not entirely sure. I think it's magic. Must be all the minerals and nutrients: calcium, magnesium, potassium, glucosamine, sodium, collagen, gelatin, to name a few. I sprinkle sea kelp granules on my broth for iodine. But perhaps the most important ingredient is belief. I believe that drinking bone broth before I work out helps me out, and therefore it does. Like I said, it's all about perception.<br />
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Here's how I make my magic bone broth:<br />
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About once a week, I roast a chicken. Then I put the picked over carcass in the crockpot, along with the bones and skin my family has left on their plates. I add the giblets* I pulled out of the chicken before roasting, along with the tops of an onion, one carrot, one stalk of celery, and one tablespoon of vinegar (helps extract calcium from bones). I cover it with water, leaving about 1/2 inch of head space. I cook it on low for 24 hours, then strain the broth through a colander, let the broth cool for a few hours at room temperature, and freeze it in half pint jars (once again leaving a half inch of head space). <br />
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*If I don't make the broth the same day I roast the chicken, I freeze the giblets until I'm ready to cook the broth. Believe me, they go bad fast and smell nasty.<br />
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Alternatively, I use a few pounds of chicken feet in lieu of a chicken carcass. Chicken feet broth has <a href="http://raypeat.com/articles/articles/gelatin.shtml" target="_blank">more gelatin</a>, and smells like Top Ramen. When cooled, it looks like chicken Jello. Sounds appetizing, doesn't it? <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8020887180/" title="frozen magic by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="frozen magic" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/8020887180_ecd716ab72_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8020887180/" title="frozen magic by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Even if you don't work out 6 days a week, adding bone broth to your daily diet is a healthy choice. Bone broth promotes digestion, aids healing, and is packed with essential nutrients. It's simple and inexpensive to make, and it's the right thing to do with a chicken carcass.<br />
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You can't go wrong with <a href="http://www.westonaprice.org/food-features/broth-is-beautiful" target="_blank">bone broth</a>. <a href="http://www.westonaprice.org/food-features/why-broth-is-beautiful" target="_blank">Drink up</a>. <div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-13112681711799620292012-09-19T18:13:00.000-07:002012-09-19T20:16:52.666-07:00More About Me Than You Need to Know (and a recipe for guacamole)<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8004453919/" title="one sad egg by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="one sad egg" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8436/8004453919_48edff4fbb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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My kids often ask me to tell them stories about when I was a kid. Today, I've got a childhood story for you. <br />
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When I was about 9 or 10, I remember sitting in a bean bag in the children's section of the public library, reading a Danielle Steele novel. When my mom came over and saw what I was reading, she quickly took the book away and rightly informed me that I was too young to read Danielle Steele. I was dismayed, and probably a little embarrassed. It was years before I picked up another Danielle Steele book, only to realize that her books were not my thing. Mother knows best. <br />
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Fast forward a few years, when I was not allowed to see the movie, <u>A Handmaid's Tale</u>, because it was rated R. Somehow I discovered that the movie was based on a book (how did we discover anything before the internet?), so I went to the library and checked it out. Several things were born out of this discovery: my love for Margaret Atwood; my love for the filmed novel; and my fascination with dystopian literature. <br />
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Forget romance and riches, ala Danielle Steele. I want to read about corrupt governments, unethical science experimentation, extreme civil rights violations, horrific plagues, and post apocalyptic societies. Margaret Atwood is a master of dystopian literature. In addition to <u>The Handmaid's Tale</u>, <u>Oryx and Crake</u> and <u>The Flood</u> depict quite severe, futuristic dystopian landscapes, with complicated characters fighting for survival. If the dystopian filmed novel interest you, I recommend reading and watching <u>The Road</u>, by Cormac McCarthy, and <u>Never Let Me Go</u>,by Kazuo Ishiguro.<br />
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I've been thinking a lot this week about my taste in books, and what drives me to pick up one book over another, as books are ever present in my life. My interest in dystopian/post apocalyptic literature was likely influenced by my upbringing. I was raised with a religion that preached the end of days. Growing up, armageddon was right around the corner. I was assured I'd survive it if I was properly equipped with faith and perseverance, but the whole concept scared the hell out of me. I didn't believe that the end of days would be swift or painless, and I feared I needed more than the fruits of the spirit to see me through.<br />
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I am no longer waiting for or fearful of doom and gloom, but I still find solace in reading stories of doom and gloom. I find a sense of kinship with writers who, like me, imagine how things could go wrong, and what a dystopic future might look like. I find inspiration in characters who face hardship, battle unspeakable evils, and fight for a better future. I take mental notes on the smarts and tools they use to survive, you know, just in case. <br />
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Attempting to read a book beyond my years as a child, and later reading a book because I couldn't see a movie, reveals something else about me: I am stubbornly independent. If you tell me I can't do something, I'll find a way to do it. This trait likely made me a difficult child to raise (sorry Mom and Dad!), but it's also something that I like about myself. It's a trait that might serve me well one day, should I be wrong about the timing of the end of the world as we know it. <i> Oh, no, not I. I will survive.</i><br />
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Why am I telling you all of this?<br />
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In my last post, I shared a few quotes from a book I'm currently reading, a book I heard mentioned in a podcast and rushed to the library to pick up because the word "dystopian" was used in its description. My ears perked up. What? A classic dystopian book I hadn't read yet? <br />
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I was dismayed, and a little embarrassed, when several commenters felt the need to rebuke my choice of reading material based on their strong feelings about the author of the book, an author whom I still know very little about (but thanks to my stubborn independence, I'm determined to learn more). I felt like a kid, sitting on a bean bag at the library, being scolded for the book in my hands.<br />
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It is fine if you don't like the books I read, or the food I eat, or the activities in which I choose to participate, or even the things I believe or don't believe. You are entitled to express your opinions. I love opinions! I want to hear what you have to say, which is why I allow comments on my blog. <br />
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But please know that opinions that sound like condemnations, assumptions about my beliefs, condescending name calling, and a general negative tone, makes me uncomfortable. For me, visiting a blog is like stepping inside someone's home. Take a look around, have a seat and let's chat if you have the time, but please have respect for my space. Negativity has a way of permeating a space and making it uninviting and unappealing to both the host and visitors.<br />
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Sadly, this whole experience made me realize a trait I possess that I don't like: I am sensitive. Aidan's egg, as seen above, speaks to me, one sad egg to another. Since 2006, I have written over 600 posts, and I've received over 12,000 comments. That's over one thousand dozen! I can probably fill a small egg container with the negative comments I've received over six years; they are a drop in the bucket, but they make a big splash, overpowering the thousands of nice and encouraging comments. <br />
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I won't censor comments (unless they're spam), and I also refuse to censor myself for fear that you might disagree with me. I now understand why some of my friends have turned off comments on their blogs, but I don't want to shut the door and close down the communication which comments facilitate. Instead, I'll work on toughening my shell. Maybe some more calcium in my diet? <br />
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Speaking of diet, let's talk about food. Food is usually a safe topic. Guacamole anyone? <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/8004474638/" title="everyday guacamole by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="everyday guacamole" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8440/8004474638_89089f06c1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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I call it "everyday guacamole" because I make it five days a week for George's lunch, and sometimes on the weekend for family and friends. Below are recipes for a single serving and a batch large enough to share. It's quite simple and unadorned. My grandpa declared it the best guacamole he's ever had, but I happen to know he's biased towards me. <br />
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<b>Everyday Guacamole</b><br />
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Single serving:<br />
1 avocado<br />
1/4 of a small red onion, minced (about 2 tablespoons)<br />
1 teaspoon lemon juice (about a quarter of a lemon)<br />
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste<br />
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For a small crowd:<br />
4 avocados<br />
1 small red onion, minced<br />
the juice of one lemon<br />
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste<br />
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Mash all of the ingredients together to your preferred consistency. Chunky or smooth, it's up to you. Stick an avocado pit in the guacamole to prevent it from browning if you're not going to eat it right away. <br />
<br />
I serve my guacamole with sliced jicama, or "not chips", as my friend Heather teases me. Enjoy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-48509436437195690042012-09-08T19:00:00.000-07:002012-09-08T19:05:40.204-07:00This Week at the BoxMy gym peeps remarked this morning that I haven't posted in a while. They've also noticed my workout times on the whiteboard at the gym this past week. It's certainly obvious where I've been putting my energy lately. I'm going for an A in PE, and failing Writing and Photography. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7958771898/" title="IMG_9313 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9313" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8033/7958771898_5fa4888464_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
And I'm sleeping on the job, catching a few moments of shut eye while the kids work on their math, hoping that no one needs tutoring. (Photo by Avery.)<br />
<br />
It was quite the week at my gym. A week full of benchmark WODs (workout of day) after a 4 day holiday weekend. For those of you who don't CrossFit (yet), <a href="http://www.crossfit.com/journal/library/13_03_Benchmark_Workouts.pdf" target="_blank">benchmark WODs</a> are trademark CrossFit workouts, named after women, designed as a way to benchmark performance and track progress over time. <br />
<br />
After every workout, benchmark or not, our coach writes our finish times and weight loads on the whiteboard, and checking out these numbers is an unspoken part of our workout. Who got what time, how much did they lift, who am I competing against today? Taking it to the next level, CrossFitters around the world post their WOD times online, so if you're a curious student like I am, you can google these numbers. <br />
<br />
Today when I walked into the box and saw "Angie" on the board, I almost walked out. 100 pull ups, 100 push ups, 100 sit ups, 100 squats for time. Then I checked the board to see the finish times for the previous class. Denise, sweaty and smiling from her workout, teased me that I could beat her time by 10 minutes. I thought optimistically that maybe, just maybe, I could complete the WOD in under 20 minutes, about 5 minutes less than her time. I ended up finishing in 21 minutes and 15 seconds (which, according to an old forum post on the CrossFit website, places me #6 among the top women who posted times, if you're into those kind of stats).<br />
<br />
Doing the "ladies" this week opened my eyes to a new level of competition present at the gym, and CrossFit in general, but mostly in myself. Yes, I compete with the other athletes at the gym. But more importantly, I compete with myself. I don't go to the gym to prove my power, I go there to exercise it. Yes, I beat others more than I am beat. Yes, I am proud to write that, though you'll probably never hear me say that at the gym. I set goals for myself, based on my desire, my performance to date, and the performance of others, and I work as hard and as fast as I can. <br />
<br />
For me, competition isn't all about getting the best time, it's about achieving my goal. Reading <u>Atlas Shrugged</u> by Ayn Rand this past week, while lazing on the couch after my workouts, has helped cement for me the importance of competition. It is vital to progress, and it benefits everyone, not just the "winner". As Francisco told Dagny,<br />
<br />
". . . you know that achievement is man's highest moral purpose, that he can't exist without it . . ."<br />
<br />
And as Dagny herself felt upon reaching a goal,<br />
<br />
". . . the sight of an achievement was the greatest gift a human being could offer to others." <br />
<br />
Take competition out of any system, and what do we have to strive for? My times and weight loads on the whiteboard motivate others just as their times and weight loads motivate me. Competition at the gym creates cohesion among the group. When one of us succeeds, we all succeed, as evidenced by the good cheer and camaraderie following each workout. Competition is also vital to our individual progress, as evidenced by some amazing numbers this past week on our benchmark WODs. <br />
<br />
Surprisingly, the highlight of this past week was not the days I posted the best times, but the day I didn't. I struggled through "Diane": 21 dead lifts (158 pounds), 21 hand stand push ups, then 15 of each, then 9 of each. My two competitors finished before I did, and I was almost in tears trying to dead lift that 158 pound barbell during my final round. My hips were on fire. I didn't think I could lift the bar one more time, but my friend T looked me in the eye and quietly said, "You've got this. You can do it."<br />
<br />
And I did. Not with the best time, but with encouragement and support from my competition.<br />
<br />
Any gym peeps reading this, I just want to say, thank you all for bringing it to the box. Enjoy your day of rest tomorrow, and be ready to bring it again on Monday. I know I'm doing something right by you when you give me a high five or bump my knuckles, look me in the eye, and say with a smile, "I hate you."<br />
<br />
Any blog peeps out there interested in trying some CrossFit workouts at home, check out <a href="http://calicrossfit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">CrossFit Mamas</a>. I just have to warn you, CrossFit is exhausting, addictive, and one of the best things that will ever happen to you.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-32058116454638422902012-08-20T18:34:00.003-07:002012-08-20T18:34:55.332-07:00What Do You Do? (and Quick Pickled Red Onions)CrossFit has dramatically expanded my community. Not only do I have the pleasure of working out with anywhere from 2 to 12 (and sometimes more) people every day, but outside the gym, people I barely know approach me and ask about my working out. Who knew my muscles would be such a conversation starter?<br />
<br />
And of course, most conversations with people I don't know or barely know include the question, "What do you do?"<br />
<br />
Oh, the awkward moment for the stay at home mom. Part of me wants to say, "I don't work", but that's an outrageous lie. I work my behind off! I just don't work for money.<br />
<br />
Lately I've answered, "I homeschool my two kids," which goes a long way towards explaining why I don't work outside of the home for money (and why I go to the gym every day). <br />
<br />
But of course, I do so much more than homeschool, and I search for a more complete answer to the probing question, "What do you do?"<br />
<br />
What is the main thing I do every day? What do I spend the majority of my time doing? What is my most important daily task?<br />
<br />
Of all places, I found an answer in a cookbook.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7826485488/" title=""a meal is an ethereal thing" by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt=""a meal is an ethereal thing"" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8440/7826485488_798bcdf0cf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"But a meal is an ethereal thing that requires a certain orchestration, and a lot of planets must be correctly aligned for it to succeed."</span></i><br />
<br />
<u><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_658908914">Platter of Figs</a></u><a href="http://davidtanis.com/DavidTanis/Books_by_David_Tanis.html" target="_blank"> by David Tanis</a>. Oh what a lovely book by an insightful cook. <br />
<br />
What do I do? <br />
<br />
I align planets.<br />
I orchestrate meals.<br />
I perform the daily miracle of gathering my family around the table to eat.<br />
<br />
Preparing food and getting my family to the dinner table is the most important thing I do every day, and certainly takes up the majority of my time. Nearly every task I perform during the day is a step in the direction of the dinner table. <br />
<br />
I've been feeding my family for years, of course, but the ritual of the family meal has taken on a new gravity in the past year. Switching to a whole food diet, eliminating many of the fast and simple staples from our menu, elevated the family meal to an "ethereal thing". No longer do we stand around the kitchen island and slurp bowls of noodles, or plunk down in front of a movie and devour slice after slice of pizza. Our meals take time and effort to prepare, and so help me, we're going to sit down at the table, put a cloth napkin in our laps, and savor my labor.<br />
<br />
Ever since I saw the movie, "Like Water for Chocolate", when I was 17, I've wanted my cooking to be magical. Now it is, simply because I believe. <br />
<br />
I believe in what I'm eating and why. <br />
I believe that feeding my family is the my most important task.<br />
I believe that the dinner table is a sacred place.<br />
I believe in the magic of the family meal.<br />
<br />
Cooking is alchemy. Magic. Common substances of little value are transformed into something much greater. Quick pickled onions are a good example.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7826503076/" title="IMG_9242 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9242" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8287/7826503076_b3b11d722f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Take a red onion. Slice it as thin as you can.<br />
<br />
Add the juice of one lemon and a sprinkle of salt.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7826508072/" title="IMG_9248 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9248" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8297/7826508072_b65a97695b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Let it sit while you prepare dinner. <br />
<br />
The simple onion will transform in color, flavor, and texture.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7826513146/" title="IMG_9260 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9260" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7826513146_82d9e388bd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
Add some sliced cucumbers and voila! You have a salad.<br />
<br />
Or sprinkle your sliced red onion with apple cider vinegar (and a little salt). Take a taste after about half an hour. Imagine how good it would taste with some toasted walnuts, a chopped green apple, a few handfuls of baby spinach, a glug of olive oil, and a crackling of pepper. It tastes like magic.<br />
<br />
And that, my friends, is what I do.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-14939178553449681722012-08-08T18:00:00.001-07:002012-08-08T18:00:49.266-07:00What I Talk About When I Talk About CrossFitWriters write. <br />
Runners run. <br />
I desire to do both.<br />
I do neither often or well. <br />
But still, I try.<br />
<br />
I recently listened to Haruki Murikami's memoir, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/What-Talk-about-When-Running/dp/1433243881" target="_blank">What I Talk About When I Talk About Running</a></u>. He writes novels <i>and</i> runs marathons. Ah, but he makes both seem so effortless. <br />
<br />
Pick up a pen. <br />
Lace up your running shoes. <br />
Get it done. <br />
<br />
What's my excuse?<br />
<br />
I ran today. Had to. It was part of my workout. <br />
<br />
Throw a 63 pound barbell over your head 21 times. <br />
Run 400 meters.<br />
Throw the barbell over your head 15 more times.<br />
Run 400 meters.<br />
Throw that barbell up just 9 more times.<br />
Run 400 meters.<br />
Collapse in a heap on the floor of the gym.<br />
Go home and write about it. <br />
<br />
Really? Three quarters of a mile? Mr. Murikami runs more than 6 miles every single day. He's probably barely warmed up by the time I'm huffing and puffing.<br />
<br />
"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional," writes Murikami. We should paint this on the wall of the gym. <br />
<br />
Just as Murikami has learned most of what he needs to know about writing through running every day, I'm learning what I need to know about living by working out every day. <br />
<br />
I'm learning how to lace up my shoes and get it done, or in some cases, kick my shoes off and get it done even faster.<br />
<br />
I'm learning to embrace my strengths, and embrace my weaknesses even tighter. Squeeze them, work through them, overcome them, find the next one. <br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
I'm learning that I can accomplish what I put my mind to, even if it's something I don't want to do or think I can't do.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
I'm learning that it takes hard work to make things appear effortless.</div>
<br />
Today, when I stepped up to the barbell and felt the cool metal against my shins, the last thing I wanted to do was squat down, pick it up, and throw it over my head. Repeatedly. But what I wanted even less was to fail by not trying. As the timer counted down to start time, I stopped thinking and started doing. This might be the most important thing I'm learning at CrossFit. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7743194466/" title="crossfit by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="crossfit" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7261/7743194466_f7e3bc0c1f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7743194466/" title="crossfit by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<i>"It doesn't matter how old I get, but as long as I continue to live I'll always discover something new about myself."</i> Haruki Murikami<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-78915683038255851292012-07-18T17:16:00.000-07:002012-07-19T01:52:18.154-07:00It's Just a Phase (and Eggplant Home Fries)It is unfortunately easy to be disappointed. <br />
<br />
Take our garden, for example. I have found myself bringing armloads of eggplant and cucumbers into the kitchen while feeling completely disappointed with our garden's yield. We have more squash than we can eat, but the tomatoes have yet to turn red. Having jalapenos but no ripe tomatoes seems like a failure. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7600155110/" title="from our garden by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="from our garden" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8424/7600155110_2e76fa470e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7600155110/" title="from our garden by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
But look at this harvest from just one evening in the garden! This is far from gardening failure! <br />
<br />
My son is going through an unfortunate phase; a phase marked by an extreme increase in want. We cannot go into a store without him finding something he desperately wants. And when I say no, he is <i>extremely</i> disappointed. Like, <i>my life is over</i> disappointed. His funk becomes everyone's funk, to the point that my daughter wants to buy him what he wants just to cheer him up. Cheer all of us up, really.<br />
<br />
This phase of his bothers me because:<br />
<br />
1. I wish I had the resources to buy my children more of their wants.<br />
2. I wish my children wanted less.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
3. I can't stand it when my children ask for stuff.</div>
4. I hate saying no.<br />
<br />
We are a family of four living well on one income, and one of the reasons we live well is because many of our wants go unfulfilled. All of our needs are met, and on occasion, a few of our wants are satisfied. Unfortunately, my son's unfulfilled wants remind me of my unfulfilled wants. <br />
<br />
Want can be a driving force, a motivator, but want can also be a negative emotion. Sometimes, deciding to forgo my wants, or saying no to my children's wants, makes me feel poor. Poor, not as in the state of our finances, but as in a negative emotion, like disappointment. It is a state of mind, and hopefully, like my son's current want-fest, just a phase. <br />
<br />
When we left a sporting goods store yesterday without the goggles my son begged for, I had to remind him of the boogie board he got the day before, and the bag of Legos he got a few days before that. And that's when it hit me - he's spoiled. He's got an armload of zucchini, and he's whining about green tomatoes. There's an important lesson to harvest here. Perhaps we've picked too many wants lately, and we need give the garden a break.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
~</div>
<br />
Typically, our tomatoes ripen before our eggplant, but not this year. We've been blessed with dozens of slender, tender Japanese eggplants. I cubed and roasted some recently with the intention of making Macedonian salad, sans quinoa, but the roasted eggplant was so good, we ate it before it became part of a salad. I call the dish Eggplant Home Fries because the cubed, roasted eggplant reminds me of the potato home fries at our favorite breakfast diner, Katrina's.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7600158118/" title="eggplant home fries by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="eggplant home fries" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8431/7600158118_8de47baa9c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7600158118/" title="eggplant home fries by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<b>Eggplant Home Fries</b><br />
<br />
6 or 7 young Japanese eggplants (about 8 inches long or so)<br />
2 to 3 tablespoons coconut oil (yes, coconut oil makes all the difference in flavor here)<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cube the eggplant into small pieces, 1/2 inch or smaller. Coat well with coconut oil. Go ahead, use your hands. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread on a greased cookie sheet (just use your oily hands to grease the sheet). Bake until eggplant starts to get crispy, about 50 minutes, maybe a little longer, maybe not quite as long. Check the eggplant after about 40 minutes or so, and stir it occasionally towards the end as the fries around the edge tend to brown faster. Best served piping hot.<br />
<br />
I should also add that my kids won't try these, which is great for George and me - more for us! A few of you have mentioned the difficulty of transitioning kids to a new way of eating. It ain't easy. Every night when I bring dinner to the table, I tell myself: you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. More on kids and food later, but for now I can tell you, just keep on leading.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-2233084257525853582012-07-16T17:41:00.003-07:002012-07-16T17:41:48.842-07:00My Midriff (and Watermelon Lime Mint Popsicles)<div style="text-align: left;">
In a recent email conversation with a relatively new blog reader (hi Julie!), I asked how she had found my blog. I often wonder where you all come from and how you find me. This space has morphed so many times in the past few years - from homeschooling, to crafting, and now food, food, food. </div>
<br />
Julie didn't recall exactly how she found me, but she did mention the grain free waffles and also the picture of my midriff. <br />
<br />
Which of course inspired me to take an updated midriff photo and share my progress, because I'm sure you've all been dying to know what I look like in a sports bra. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7586090918/" title="IMG_8802 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8802" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7108/7586090918_00937225a9_z.jpg" width="427" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Now, it's not yet the six pack I aspire to, but it's a whole lot better than it was last summer! This same view made me cringe a year ago. I hate to hate on fat, but I was hating on my fat last July. I avoided bathing suits and swimming like the plague. Things began shifting in my mid thirties in unexpected and unwelcome ways, which is exactly why at the end of last summer, I began renovating. <br />
<br />
Today marks three months since I started Crossfit, and I'm fast approaching the one year anniversary of going Paleo. Things have started to shift in welcome ways, and renovations are going better than I expected. Over the weekend, I received word from two readers that they've both just recently started similar renovations, beginning by giving up grain. I'm beyond excited for both of them, and I'm thrilled that I helped inspire their journeys. Both mentioned a positive change in their hunger and satiation. I know this feeling, and it is good! It is powerful! It is encouraging!<br />
<br />
Here's my advice. Put on a sports bra and take a picture. Keep it somewhere only you can see it (or post it on your blog for the world to see - your call). Keep on eating clean, avoiding grain and sugar, and moving your body. Take another picture in three months. Then three months later. Prepare to be amazed. Personally, I'm looking forward to taking a picture one year from now.<br />
<br />
Of course, it's not all about your midriff or how you look in a sports bra. It's about how you feel in your skin. My husband asked me a poignant question recently, a question I now ask myself quite often: "Are you happy when you look in the mirror?"<br />
<br />
I'm getting there. More importantly, I'm happy. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7586730430/" title="553898_3783789025711_1077304463_n by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="553898_3783789025711_1077304463_n" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7259/7586730430_c73eedfb81_z.jpg" width="429" /></a>
<br />
<br />
And I've been meaning to share for months now that my parents have also gone Paleo! I'm so proud of them. I thoroughly enjoy being on this journey alongside them, sharing meals, recipes, recipe reviews, cooking tips, and of course, the myriad of ways we are all feeling better and healthier. (Photo by my brother-in-law, Mark. Thank you, Mark, for taking this picture.)<br />
<br />
Speaking of recipes, a few of you asked about the watermelon, lime, and mint popsicles. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7586098148/" title="IMG_8844 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8844" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7586098148_902b775369_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Watermelon Lime Mint Popsicles</b><br />
<br />
6 cups of watermelon chunks (enough to fill a blender)<br />
a handful of mint leaves<br />
the juice of 1 lime<br />
<br />
Blend thoroughly and freeze in popsicle molds. Makes 10 popsicles. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7586101760/" title="IMG_8866 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8866" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8004/7586101760_cabdac8acc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7586101760/" title="IMG_8866 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Super simple, and midriff friendly too. <br />
<br />
Just out of curiosity, how did you find my blog?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-11172522659515301192012-07-13T18:19:00.000-07:002012-07-13T18:26:29.412-07:00Chicken Avocado SaladMy kids think I'm crazy because I drove 60 miles today to buy popsicle sticks. But I just ate a homemade watermelon-lime-mint ice pop, and let me tell you, the sticks were worth the drive. Who knew popsicle sticks would be so difficult to source locally? Craft sticks abound, but they don't fit my mold, and I doubt they're food safe. (In case you're in the greater Sacramento area, you can find popsicles sticks and a very cool mold at <a href="http://www.eastbayrestaurantsupply.com/sac.html" target="_blank">East Bay Restaurant Supply</a>.) <br />
<br />
My Crossfit gym, aka home away from home, is hosting a Paleo Potluck tomorrow, and I'm freezing several batches of ice pops because it's going to be hot, and we're planning on doing three WODs in between stuffing our faces with cave food and watching the televised Crossfit Games. Could it get more fun than this?<br />
<br />
I'm also whipping up a batch of my new favorite recipe: Chicken Avocado Salad. I make it several times a week for lunch, and when I recently made it for dinner, Aidan went back for thirds. It's that good, and it's a perfect balance of macronutrients: chicken (protein), avocado (fat), and onions and cucumbers (carbs). I hope it will be a hit at the gym, but if not, then more for me! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7565151260/" title="chicken avocado salad by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="chicken avocado salad" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8168/7565151260_a14a105c9d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Chicken Avocado Salad</b><br />
(adjust quantity of ingredients as you see fit)<br />
<br />
Grilled chicken breasts<br />
Avocados (I recommend 1 avocado per pound of chicken)<br />
Red onion<br />
Cucumbers<br />
Cilantro<br />
Lime juice, to taste<br />
Salt and Pepper, to taste<br />
<br />
Dice chicken, avocados, red onions, and cucumbers. Chop cilantro. Mix with lime juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve in lettuce wraps. Or, stand in front of the refrigerator and eat salad directly out of the bowl. It's good for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-15570708076580522022012-07-11T15:33:00.000-07:002012-07-11T15:41:16.703-07:00Play With Food<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552288694/" title="IMG_8198 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8198" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7552288694_ebf7003e89_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552288694/" title="IMG_8198 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552462118/" title="IMG_8482 by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8482" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7552462118_5d002fcb24_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552462118/" title="IMG_8482 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Eat flowers.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552436674/" title="weave bacon by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="weave bacon" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8003/7552436674_3f89ebacc9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552440846/" title="IMG_8492 by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>Weave <a href="http://thefreerangehuman.wordpress.com/2012/03/26/ketogenic-pizza/">bacon</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552308236/" title="grow lettuce from a stump! by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="grow lettuce from a stump!" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7552308236_472d893b4e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552308236/" title="grow lettuce from a stump! by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>Grow from <a href="http://www.mynewoldschool.com/2012/05/17/regrow-lettuce/">stumps</a> and pits.<br />
<br />
Have fun with your food.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552284438/" title="play with friends by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="play with friends" height="491" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/7552284438_703ca9d176_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7552284438/" title="play with friends by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>Have fun with your friends.<br />
<br />
Have fun.<br />
<br />
Even if it means not blogging for over a week.<br />
<br />
Summer is short. The back to school supplies and Thanksgiving decorations at several stores told me so.<br />
<br />
The "Paleo Pyramid Art" goes to . . .<br />
<br />
Julie Kern!<br />
<br />
Email me your address and I'll send some art your way.<br />
<br />
Stay posted for recipes. My media card is filling up with images of food and my kitchen island is overflowing with recipes scribbled on scraps of paper. I've been having fun in the kitchen, playing with food.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-78653819319361538732012-07-03T18:09:00.000-07:002012-07-03T20:53:01.929-07:00A Garden, a Geek, and a GiveawayRight now I'm sitting at a clean dining table, listening to Nina Simone, avoiding a sink full of dirty dishes, and contemplating what vegetables to serve with my favorite Hot Links from Coffee Pot Ranch. Soon, the table will be filthy, the children will change my music, and there will be more dirty dishes in the sink.<br />
<br />
What better way to fill the time in between with a blog post? Writing certainly beats washing dishes. <br />
<br />
I climbed up on the roof early Saturday morning to take this picture.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7497954730/" title="garden in july by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="garden in july" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7497954730_418c45f603_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Our green, green garden. Or at least what I could capture of it with a fixed lens from the peak of our roof. The tomatoes are full of green fruit, as are the zucchini and pepper plants. About a half dozen eggplants will be ripe for picking this weekend, at which time I'll be paleofying my sister-in-law's <a href="http://foothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com/2010/08/far-from-boring.html" target="_blank">Macedonian salad recipe</a>. The sprawling cucumber vines are just beginning to pump out cucumbers. As long as I get one a day for my "<a href="http://foothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com/2012/06/who-do-you-trust-for-nutritional-advice.html">not gatorade</a>", I'm happy, but before long, I'll be pickling. <br />
<br />
I let my rainbow chard go to seed and I'm anxiously awaiting the stalks to dry out and reseed on their own. This morning while we were watering, George pointed out some little volunteer sprouts mixed in with my yellow bell peppers. I took a nibble, and to my pleasant surprise, it's arugula! Have I ever told you I could live on arugula? <br />
<br />
A neighbor recently asked us how much of our own food we grow. Sadly, George and I had to admit, "Not nearly enough." Far from enough to call our garden sustainable. It's more of a hobby/science project at this point, but we're constantly learning and revising our gardening goals. At least every meal we eat contains some homegrown ingredients, but one day we hope to grow most of our own food. Now if I can just figure out how to keep pigs without my neighbors finding out . . .<br />
<br />
Enough with the garden, and on to the geek. I've been geeking out on podcasts and lectures lately, and I thought I'd share two. Watch them, and you'll know me a little better. Or at least you'll better know why I avoid sugar and grain, and also how much I love biochemistry. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dBnniua6-oM" width="420"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
(What? You don't have an hour and a half to watch a video about sugar? Take tiny spoonfuls. It took me a week to get through the whole thing.)<br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cv5RwxYW8yA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br />
(Thank you, Dawn, for sharing this video! At 37 minutes, it only took me two days to watch.)
<br />
<br />
Do you want to hear another geeky thing I did last weekend, besides climbing up on my roof in my pajamas to take garden pictures? I drove down to Costco in Sacramento to meet <a href="http://everydaypaleo.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Fragoso of Everyday Paleo</a>. She was there signing books, and I was so very nervous that I barely said more than "Hello" and "Thank you". I intended to say something like, "I enjoy your blog and have made many of your recipes," or, "I'm a paleo/crossfit/food blogger too!", and, "Can you believe Costco is promoting Paleo?"<br />
<br />
But no. In typical geek fashion, I clammed up and blew my chances at an actual conversation, or as much of a conversation as one can expect to have at a book signing at Costco. Let me just say, Sarah is glowing. She is the perfect role model for Paleo living. And despite my lame behavior, I'm glad I went and got my book signed. <br />
<br />
OK. I must confess, I did something else rather geeky. I gave Sarah a piece of my art. Sadly, I didn't have a chance to explain it, so I'll show and tell here.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7498071934/" title="my food pyramid by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="my food pyramid" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7498071934_3ce1f7e9d8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
It's my food pyramid. The real food pyramid. A visual representation of my ideal diet. Meat and veggies. It's also a play on the folksy country decor of my youth. I've been working on different variations of this theme for months, and I really like this version. The original is a paper cut/photo collage (photos from various seed catalogs, animal outlines from various charcuterie resources). <br />
<br />
I have a copy to giveaway, so leave a comment and I'll select a winner at random, to be announced Friday, July 6 (or the next time I find myself avoiding dirty dishes to blog about food).<br />
<br />
May the fourth find you feeling free and full!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-63801709592938066012012-06-28T16:29:00.002-07:002012-06-28T18:20:04.983-07:00Who Do You Trust for Nutritional Advice?My life pretty much revolves around food. Making it, growing it, shopping for it, sharing it. I'm planning lunch and dinner before I even eat breakfast. And more and more, I find myself talking about food - all the time, everywhere. At the gym, swim practice, library, copy shop, farmer's market, parties; name the place, and there I am, talking about food. <br />
<br />
I'm down with all the food talk. I enjoy talking about food almost as much as I enjoy eating it, and I've recently come to appreciate that this is my role within my family and community. I'm completely responsible for the nutrition of three other human beings. If I didn't think about my family's food, they might not eat. Or worse yet, they'd eat all wrong. Within my community, many people don't have the time or interest to think about food all day long. They've got jobs, commitments, non edible interests. I've got dinner ideas, cooking tips, recipes to share. <br />
<br />
Many of my recent food conversations have hinged on nutrition. I'm more than willing to share what I've learned, but I hesitate to advise others on their diet. Although I have a lot of experience with food (don't we all?), I realize that I'm not qualified to dispense nutritional advice. The more research I do about food and nutrition, the more I wonder, who is? Who can I trust to tell me what to eat, what not to eat, and why? <br />
<br />
Almost everything I used to believe about food and nutrition has been turned upside down this past year. I've gone from buying whole grains and brown rice in bulk to smearing my steak with butter. I no longer believe that red meat and eggs will raise my cholesterol, that saturated fat will make me fat, or that salt will give me heart disease. I now know that skipping a meal or two will not result in my body cannibalizing itself for protein. I now believe that sugar is the root of nearly all health evils, and that glucose is glucose, but not every calorie is created equal. <br />
<br />
I didn't learn this from my doctor or my college professors, and certainly not from any government funded nutritional education programs. I haven't read it in one specific book. I'm continually piecing my knowledge from various sources: articles, blog posts, podcasts, documentaries, online lectures, various books and websites, conversations with friends who seem to be eating something right. <br />
<br />
The most influential source of nutritional advice came from this TED Talk. (Please take a moment to watch it if you haven't already.)<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KLjgBLwH3Wc" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Most importantly, I'm learning about proper nutrition from myself. I started listening to my gut. I pay attention to deviations from my idea of optimal health and research how to correct it with minerals and vitamins from whole food sources. I analyze how I feel after eating certain foods, and eliminate or increase those foods accordingly. I experiment with the timing of my meals for better performance and sounder sleep.<br />
<br />
No, I'm not qualified to tell you what to eat, but you are. You have access to all the tools you need to find the proper nutrition for your body. You are the ultimate laboratory. Yes, it takes time and effort, but aren't you worth it? Trust yourself, mind your mitochondria, and enjoy your food. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
~~~~~~~~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I recently had a conversation with a CrossFit friend (hi Denise!) about muscle cramping post workout. I wondered out loud if maybe the cramping was due to an electrolyte imbalance. As I've made clear, I'm not an expert and certainly not qualified to dispense nutritional advice, but if I were cramping post workout, I'd drink something like this:<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7463554242/" title=""not gatorade" electrolyte drink by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt=""not gatorade" electrolyte drink" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7463554242_d5579da789_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Paleo friendly Aguas Frescas. Not only does it have potassium and sodium, it tastes darn good and it's refreshing after a sweaty workout. I made one today after a pretty disappointing attempt at some heavy snatches. It made me feel a little better about my improper form and wimpy load.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Molly's Post WOD Aguas Frescas </b>(aka "Not Gatorade")</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 lemon cucumber</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 cup water</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
the juice of 1/2 a lime, lemon, or both</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
generous pinch of salt</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
ice</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Put everything in the blender and blend until smooth.<br />
<br />
If you're not worried about electrolytes, add a shot of tequila. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Enjoy!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
P.S. This picture is for Amy, who gave me these flowers when they were wee babies, and who called me during her precious quiet time today to talk about food, especially of the fermented variety, and muscle ups. Thank you, friend.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7463546794/" title="cosmos and calendula by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="cosmos and calendula" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8009/7463546794_266676e873_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-28207134244567931722012-06-20T15:23:00.000-07:002012-06-20T15:23:05.712-07:00"Not Rice" and "Not Noodles"It's hard to believe that ten months ago, rice and noodles were a daily staple at our house (as was cereal, oatmeal, bread, and tortillas). We've come a long way this past year eliminating starchy white foods from our diet! Truth be told, I'm not even interested in eating them. Starchy white food seems so bland in comparison to the colorful array of vegetables, eggs, and meat that are my new daily staples. <br />
<br />
But rice and noodles are vehicles for oh so many delicious foods! They soak up sauces, stir-frys, curries, and soups, and provide a filler to help stretch meals. Going Paleo meant finding substitutes to our former favorite staple starches. <br />
<br />
Enter cauliflower and cabbage. We often go through three heads of each a week, often in the shape of rice and noodles, or what we call "not rice" and "not noodles". Neither dish is groundbreaking or exclusively original to my kitchen, but I thought I'd share my method of cooking a few simple staples that have saved and stretched many a meal the last few months. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7410290032/" title=""not rice" by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt=""not rice"" height="427" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5276/7410290032_a4470b391f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7410290032/" title=""not rice" by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<b>Cauliflower "Not" Rice</b><br />
<br />
1 head of cauliflower, broken into big chunks<br />
2 Tablespoons coconut oil<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Using a food processor, chop cauliflower until it's the consistency of couscous. I process a half a head of cauliflower at a time and add the coconut oil, salt, and pepper while chopping to speed up the mixing process. Spread the cauliflower on a greased cookie sheet and bake for about 40 minutes, or until golden on top and beginning to brown on edges. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7410298244/" title=""not noodles" by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt=""not noodles"" height="427" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/7410298244_c30334a5fa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7410298244/" title=""not noodles" by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
<b>Cabbage "Not" Noodles</b><br />
<br />
1 head of cabbage, shredded<br />
2-3 Tablespoons bacon grease<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
Heat bacon grease in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cabbage and stir until the cabbage is coated with the bacon grease. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is very tender and beginning to turn golden. Season to taste with salt and pepper. <br />
<br />
Enjoy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-39311056521728362422012-06-18T12:36:00.002-07:002012-06-18T12:36:47.647-07:0030 Days of Yes<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7396147754/" title="we've got the beet by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="we've got the beet" height="427" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5200/7396147754_65d6f21c25_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7396147754/" title="we've got the beet by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
Just a few days into this 30 day food challenge, I can already see the challenge evolving. The kids were initially receptive to eating strictly Paleo for 30 days, but then they started asking questions:<br />
<br />
"Can we still have . . . ?"<br />
"Is . . . Paleo?"<br />
"Will you buy us . . . at the end of the 30 days?"<br />
<br />
I can tell you from first hand experience that googling, "Are (insert food in question) Paleo?", is a complete buzz kill and effective appetite suppressant. <br />
<br />
Add to their questions the online and in-print flack I've received for feeding my children vegetables and meat. I've been called Obsessive Compulsive and, in effect, irresponsible for eliminating certain major food groups from my children's diets (never mind that the food groups I've eliminated, grain and dairy, are two food groups my children shouldn't eat due to food sensitivities). <br />
<br />
The point of the challenge, for me, is to feel positive about my food choices. I want the same for my children. I leave many food choices up to them. Just yesterday morning, Grandma came over and offered Aidan a donut. She asked my permission first, but I shrugged my shoulders and said, "It's up to him." <br />
<br />
Thankfully, he said, "No, thank you." <br />
<br />
YES! Score one for the irresponsible, OCD mom using her children as guinea pigs! <br />
<br />
This is not a <a href="http://whole9life.com/2012/01/whole-30-v2012/" target="_blank">Whole 30 Program </a>or <a href="http://www.marksdailyapple.com/the-primal-blueprint-30-day-challenge/#axzz1yANcDvUq" target="_blank">Primal Blueprint Challenge</a> or <a href="http://robbwolf.com/30-day-total-transformation/" target="_blank">30 Day Total Transformation</a>.<br />
This is not about following somebody else's list of acceptable foods.<br />
This is about celebrating where you are in your transformation.<br />
This is about taking control of your own diet (and your family's diet too).<br />
This is about loving food.<br />
This is about saying yes.<br />
<br />
This month, I'm saying yes to as many vegetables as I can get on my plate. Yes to beef, pork, chicken, and trout. Yes to eggs. Yes to foraged fruit. Yes to bacon and avocado. Yes to sweet potatoes slathered in butter, post work-out. Yes to coffee with coconut milk in the morning and herbal iced tea in the afternoon. Three to five times a week, I will say yes to fruit from the farmer's market. Once or twice a week, I will say yes to a glass of wine or a tequila spritzer, and maybe a treat such as coconut ice cream or nut flour baked good (recipes for some of our new favorite treats coming soon). On a rare occasion, I will say yes to protein style hamburgers from In-n-Out. <br />
<br />
I will <i>not</i> say yes to ice cream or fro-yo, so kids, don't even ask me. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7396187402/" title="volunteers by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="volunteers" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7087/7396187402_22537f24c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Yesterday, I said yes to smashed potatoes, one of my daughter's favorite foods, and also a Paleo no-no. I said yes because volunteer potatoes were literally popping out of the ground in our garden, begging to be boiled and fried to a crisp in butter. I said yes because it was a rare treat. I said yes because I knew it would make my family happy. I said yes because I'm in control of our diet. I said yes because I love saying yes to food.<br />
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<i><a href="http://glutenfreegirl.com/yes/" target="_blank">"And yes, I said, yes, I said, yes."</a></i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8850703275190174771.post-30676735091431795422012-06-13T13:58:00.000-07:002012-06-13T13:58:11.994-07:00Hot Off the Press!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7184328293/" title="front page news by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="front page news" height="427" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5114/7184328293_d643c17b36_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It really is amazing to live in a town where <a href="http://auburnjournal.com/detail/210555.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=#comments" target="_blank">my diet is front page news</a>.<br />
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But seriously, who doesn't like being in the newspaper?
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I'm flattered, really, but I have to say, I take umbrage with the phrases "stone age", "paleo", and "caveman diet", because in truth, I eat nothing like a paleolithic caveman from the stone age. I think these adjectives are misnomers to describe our meat and vegetable diet. Yet for lack of a more accurate term, even I use the phrase "paleo diet" when discussing our food choices. <br />
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The best description I've read of an actual paleo diet came from a history textbook we used a few years ago: <u>The Story of the World</u>. The first chapter of volume 1 discusses the first nomads to become farmers in the Fertile Crescent, and vividly describes a fictional nomadic girl who catches lizards while the women in her tribe are foraging. Her mother makes a stew with them, presumably with some foraged roots and greens. I have yet to find a good recipe for lizard stew, or convince my children to go out and catch some lizards for dinner. <br />
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The closest I've come to actual "paleo" food is eating wild trout caught by George. However, he drove a motorized vehicle up to a mountain stream to fish, used a fly rod he researched and bought online, then prepared the fish using a recipe he found via Google. I doubt our early ancestors ate fish basted with lemon, butter, and cilantro. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7184323499/" title="carrot, blueberry, sunflower seed salad by molly dunham, on Flickr"><img alt="carrot, blueberry, sunflower seed salad" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7086/7184323499_b3ce8eecee_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mollydunham/7184323499/" title="carrot, blueberry, sunflower seed salad by molly dunham, on Flickr"></a>
I also doubt our early ancestors ate such elaborate salads, recommended by friends via Facebook, originally published by <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/22/dining/22mlist.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>. (Thank you Rashael! Can't wait to try<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/22/dining/22mlist.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all" target="_blank"> the other 100 salad combinations</a>.) But as I was gathering blueberries for our salad from my backyard last night, I felt a slight connection to my foraging ancestors. Fortunately, I wasn't on the lookout for predators while picking (though my chickens would have alerted me to impending danger - they squawk like mad when the blue jays threaten our cherry trees.). We've come a long way, haven't we? If it wasn't for modern technology, I wouldn't know nearly as much as I do about nutrition, growing my own food, and food preparation. 100% of the information and inspiration to change my diet for the better came via the internet, which I believe makes my diet progressive, modern, perhaps even revolutionary. <br />
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I've <s>strong armed</s> persuaded my family to take our diet up a notch with a 30 day challenge, beginning this Friday. We're going to clean up our diet just a little bit more and eat only "yes" foods. I'll go into more detail about "yes" foods in my next post, but in the meantime, if you're interested in a challenge of your own, make a list of all the foods you feel good saying yes to. Omit the foods you feel you should say no to. For me, it's ice cream and that second glass of wine. The point is, for the next month, I want to feel positive about every bite that passes my lips. How privileged are we to be such picky eaters?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Ffoothillhomecompanion.blogspot.com&layout=box_count&show_faces=false&width=150&action=like&font=arial&colorscheme=light&height=65" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:150px; height:65px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe></div>Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15738318324942700985noreply@blogger.com20