The Minnesota State Fair

My goal was five times. I wanted to go to the State Fair five times this year. I made it 3 times. Although, there is always tomorrow - the last day. It could be 4!

This is a picture from the chair lift type ride. I'm not sure what it is called but it really was the highlight of my last day at the fair. It was rather hot this day and the breeze and view was spectacular.

What did I eat you ask? Garlic French Fries, French Crepe, Cider Freeze, Pecan Nut Roll, and an ice cream cone. So yes, wheat and dairy did make their way into my mouth - but hey, the State Fair is only once a year. Well, 3 times a year for me.

Next year, I will make it 5 times.

I Love Food

It is no secret that the title of this post is true. I do love food - good food, fresh food, real food. I can't remember the last time I ate anything out of a box. OK, so maybe I ate some Newman-O's cookies this month, but hey, they are gluten free!

This year has been one of great growth - or shall I say a grand decline is the types of foods that enter my mouth. I have stayed away from wheat (bloat), salt (BLOAT) and dairy (skin). Wow - what a difference a little restraint makes.

I would have not survived this had it not been for a wonderful group of people known as Food Bloggers. Fat-Free Vegan Kitchen, Gluten-Free Girl, Kalyn's Kitchen and Karina's Kitchen to name a few of my favorites. I read these blogs daily and always find some irresistible recipe.

Here are a few of my favorites from this summer:

Vegan Blueberry Cobbler -From Karina's Kitchen
Nick's Chipotle Grilled Shrimp with Black Bean Salsa - From Kalyn's Kitchen (haven't made the Shrimp side but the black bean salsa is delicious)
Napa Cabbage Slaw Recipe with Carrots and Fennel Seed Dressing - From Kalyn's Kitchen (I have eaten the whole thing myself - so delicious)
Vegan Peach Ice Scream - a dairy free frozen dessert - From Karina's Kitchen

Enjoy - and let me (and them!) know if you love these recipes as much as I do.

More Joy!

Look at this beauty! And it tastes even better than it looks. It was included in my CSA box today. I have eaten half of it and don't intend to stop. I hope I get another one next week.

Deeper Sorrow...More Joy

“The deeper that sorrow carves into your being the more joy you can contain. Is not the cup that holds your wine the very cup that was burned in the potter's oven?” ~ Kahil Gibran

The Sweetest Soul

Lived in my house
Gave me kisses
Sat by my side
Had the softest fur
Loved a good tummy rub
Taught me all about unconditional love
and that there is such a thing as
Pure, Authentic Sweetness

I miss you Riley, my sweetest pup