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vegetalass · 4 years ago

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RDR2 Boys Cooking + Eating Habits

Arthur

Somebody else on here wrote some headcanons about Arthur not being able to cook and just eating microwave food all the time and I just have to say…. That’s canon

Lowkey though he’s trying his best to get better at cooking

Probably the only thing he knows how to make is pasta

He adds a bunch of random frozen veggies to water as the noodles are cooking

And then smothers the whole thing in butter and calls it a meal

Or he puts marinara sauce on it straight from the jar

And yes, that means it’s cold

He’s also getting better at friend rice, too

But he’s really bad at actually making rice

If he doesn’t add too much water… He burns the bottom

Charles makes a mental note to buy him a rice cooker for his birthday

Makes his own popsicles out of random fruit juices and eats them 24/7

Thinks this qualifies him as a chef

Eats pickles and olives straight out of the jar with a fork

And sauerkraut too probably

Just goes over to john’s house on his pizza nights

Puts ketchup on eggs

John

Pizza dad

Probably orders pizza, salad, and a 64oz soda twice a week

Everything else is just Dino chicken nuggets, Eggos, hot dogs, quesadillas, and frozen peas and corn

Food you feed to little kids, basically

Mostly because he does have a little kid

But also because it’s easy and takes minimal effort and he doesn’t mind eating it, too

Abigail would be mad but she has no room to talk

The most you’ll see him actually make is buttered pasta (like Arthur) or sometimes beans and rice

Abigail bought them a rice cooker a while ago so that’s one thing he doesn’t have to worry about

Probably always has some type of dessert laying around

Doesn’t mean it’s good, but it’s there

Abigail buys a bunch of those gross, low calorie ice creams and John ends up having to finishing them

Family lunches consist of a bologna sandwich on wheat bread with American cheese and mayo, a piece of fruit, a bag of chips or crackers, a go-gurt, and some gummies

And yes he makes them for himself and Abigail too

They’re all eating good at the Marston household

(Not really)

Charles

Everything he cooks are things that can’t be made in single batches

Lots of healthy soups, chilis, stew, etc…

Most of the time, he makes too much of whatever it is so he always has leftovers

Everyone is jealous when he brings them for lunch

Probably finds all of his recipes in the newspaper or random magazines he reads while at the grocery store checkout line

Everyone is like, “Charles… Why are you reading Women’s Fitness?”

And he’s like, “Check out this salad recipe, though”

Puts hot sauce on everything

Salad, macaroni and cheese, hamburgers... You name it

And he’s the king of snacking

All of his snacks are healthy, though

Raw veggies and fruit and quinoa chips from Whole Foods or something like that

Nobody likes this

He’s one of those people who brings hard boiled eggs everywhere as a “snack,” too

And yea, he puts hot sauce on those, also

He really likes those weird protein bars that are hard to bite into and taste like chalk

The flavors are either normal stuff like white chocolate macadamia or Protein Power Punch with whey, chia and seaweed

There’s no in between

He’s also a charcuterie board legend

Hosea is jealous of this talent

Micah

Spends all his money on take out

He’s totally one of those weird people who’s entire trash can is just filled with take out boxes and cans of coke or beer

Constantly eating fast food

You ask him what he bought at the supermarket and he’s like “Pub mix and bud light”

SIR

Everything that he does manage to cook only involve one step of preparation

Unseasoned, fried meats and boiled veggies

Sometimes scrambled eggs and bacon

If he’s feeling fancy, he will make plain sandwiches

This is very rare, though

Can and will complain about anyone’s cooking

Even if it’s good and he he likes it

There are certain people he can’t do this to, though, or they won’t let him eat

The only person’s cooking he doesn’t complain about is Dutch’s

Constantly snacking from an entire party sized bag of chips

And yes, he eats straight out of the bag and wipes his fingers on his jeans

His oven is dirty

Hosea

A meal for him is probably a handful of almonds and an applesauce or yogurt cup

He is constantly making a bunch of those Tik Tok recipes where you just put a bunch of random stuff into your crock pot and add ranch seasoning and cream cheese

*insert all of those memes about mom pulling out the crock pot*

If you complain, he says “Well, you’re always welcome to cook, too”

Wears an apron when he cooks

Constantly eating plain toast with butter

And bananas

And cheese sticks

Thinks that this makes him “healthy”

Definitely likes to snack on those cocktail fruit cups and canned mandarin oranges

His entire freezer is just full of ice cream

It’s all weird flavors like Cherry Garcia, chocolate banana, and pistachio though

Everyone hates him for this

Raisins are his late night treat

Has a secret stash of candy no one can find

That’s okay though because it’s mostly Werthers Originals

And Chiclets gum

He picks out all the orange ones, though

Dutch

Tries to re-plate takeout so he can call it his own

Everybody sees through this but they stopped commenting on it like four Thanksgivings ago

Buys a bunch of those meals from Costco that all you need to do is heat up in the oven

He does like fast food but only from the less popular places

Carl’s Jr., Wendy’s, BK, Arby’s, etc.

A&W, too, because he’s old and weird

He can totally cook, he just never does

It’s just normal stuff like spaghetti and meatballs or chicken and rice, though

Tuna fish casserole

He over-seasons everything, though

Mostly because he’s trying to prove that he’s a good cook

Eats dessert twice, every night

Once right after dinner, and then later when he’s feeling like a treat

Will eat in bed

Uses a little bib and tray and everything

Likes pumpkin and sunflower seeds

Would eat hot wings with gloves on

He’s the one who taught Arthur to put ketchup on eggs

Kieran

The second I realized that Kieran would probably be white trash, my life changed

Hamburger Helper meals for LIFE

That one cheeseburger pasta? Kieran probably eats that three times a week

He 100% makes the ketchup-butter sketti from Honey Boo Boo

“It’s been a while since I done had roadkill in my belly”

His favorite dessert is ambrosia salad or that weird yogurt/Cool Whip covered jello that was popular in the 2000s

Probably has a TV dinner every once in a while, too

Instant mashed potatoes and minute rice type of guy

Also gives me big microwave cheddar broccoli vibes

I’ve said this before, but his house is probably stocked with all kinds of on-brand goodies

Probably always has some kind of chip and cookie around

Eats dinner in front of the TV

Dips french fries in mayonnaise

All of this said though, he isn’t a picky eater and will eat whatever is put on his plate

That’s why he’s great to take to restaurants, because he never complains

Honestly it’s just so sweet to think of him making big crockpot meals to share with ppl even if his cooking is a lil.... strange

Javier

Thinks that the hot dog combo from Costco is a suitable dinner

Also gets hot food from the grocery store for dinner a lot

Literally will just heat up a can of something and eat it plain

Beans, chili, soup…

Doesn’t doctor it up or change it at all

He’s happy to share but no one wants any

Chips and dip, 24/7

And it’s just Tostitos Hint of Lime chips and hummus

Probably puts hummus on everything, too

Corn chips, tortilla chips, tortillas, vegetables, sandwiches, etc.

Will put anything in a tortilla and call it a sandwich

Eats leftovers cold

The rest of the gang thinks this is a sin

Makes stir fry with whatever is laying around the house

It’s a little gross because he will try to add leftover beans

Refuses to eat fast food

The only exception he’ll make is for french fries and ice cream

Walks around and eats at the same time

Isn’t above asking the other boys to share with him

Despite the fact that this only happens if what they’re eating is good

Which is almost never

Sean

Sean can’t cook. That’s the end of it

The most he can make is that weird microwave Mac and cheese where the pasta is boiled in the mug??

He never does it tho and just sticks with the normal, frozen Mac and Cheese you can microwave instead

Uses his microwaving ability to make mug cakes

And microwave scrambled eggs

Burns his popcorn every single time

He’s probably set of the smoke detector or fire alarm multiple times

He’s Irish though so of course he’s addicted to potatoes and cabbage

And since he’s from the UK, he likes stuff like beans on toast and marmite

He’s a little nasty too so catch him eating bologna sandwiches on wonder bread

Not even the Marstons are that bad

When he does get takeout, he overspends trying to use a delivery app

He’s like, “And do I need the extra side of special sauce for $5…? Yes.”

Cooks like this

#rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #red dead redemption 2 headcanons #rdr2 headcanons #arthur morgan #i finally wrote the cooking one LOL #hope you enjoy!!#excited to work on some requests now!

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headoverjojo · 5 years ago

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I’m a big fan of cute fluffy stuff, can I get some fluffy Domestic head cannons with Bruno and his gang?

Hello hello dear! Awwwwww, sooooft :,) I hope it is what you wanted! In case, please dm me and I’ll write right what you want :3

Fluffy domestic headcanons for Bruno’s gang

(Under the cut for length!)

Bruno Bucciarati

Every morning, when he wakes up, Bruno spends at least ten minutes watching the sea from his window. Seeing the sea, doesn’t matter if placid or stormy, gives him the strength to start the day. It’s also a way to honor his passed father: he feels connected to him, for some minutes, and it gives him peace.

Even if he usually has lunch out, almost always with his team, he prefers to eat dinner at home. On his home road, he stops by some small stands to buy sometimes some veggies, sometimes a bit of meat, when he feels like he wants to eat fish then he stops directly at the docks, where he knows some trustworthy fishermen, and buys here the fish. He likes to take his time while cooking, humming and putting on background a soft low CD. It’s the moment when he finally starts to relax for real.

Evening are usually spent chilling on the couch -or on the porch, if the weather is warm enough- reading or watching a show that keeps his interest. Bruno never goes to bed late, as he follows a rigorous routine -and he needs his beauty sleep-, so, around 10-11 p.m., the day, for him, is ended and it’s time to sleep. He usually sleeps with a light pajamas even in winter, and he’s one of the lucky people who fall pretty fast asleep.

If he’s a s/o, he’d share all those moments with them: he’d brew coffee for two and would take them a mug, watching with them the sea in a still half-asleep state, hugging them, in the evening he’d prepare dinner -with them if they are at home-, while quietly chatting and chuckling with them, and would go to sleep early, hugging them tightly and keeping them safe in his embrace which tastes like home.

Leone Abbacchio

Abbacchio doesn’t get a lot of sleep, definitely not as much as he’d need, due both to insomnia and recurrent nightmares. When he wakes up, early in the morning, he’s groggy and grumpy and doesn’t like to talk to anyone before his second cup of coffee. If someone dares to do so, he just grumbles, but by now all the gang knows how to interpret his morning mumbles and growls.

He learned how to cook when he was at the police academy -he’s not from Naples and he had to move in when he was accepted in the academy, so he had to learn fast how to live alone- but by now he’s a bit rusty. He just… doesn’t enjoy to cook just for himself. So he usually prepares something simple -but he’s actually pretty good when someone is his guest- and then does at least one hour of work out, following his old policeman habits. Doing his exercises helps him, other than keep his body in shape, to relax his mind in the reassuring routine.

Sleep doesn’t come easy, even when he’s so tired that he’d just like to hit the wall with his head to fall asleep. He has a small television in his room, which he synthonize on the most boring channel he can find while zapping, hoping that a 4 hours documentary about the daily life of sloths could lull him to sleep, in vain. He usually ends up watching all the show or reading all the book he had picked up -usually one of Fugo’s tomes-, falling asleep usually around 4-5 a.m.

Almost paradoxically, with a s/o things would be slight better, especially if his s/o is patient with his shenanigans. If they chuckle at his grumbles, instead of being annoyed, they’d make him start the day with a smile instead of a pout; a kiss before going on mission or wherever he has to meet with the others would improve considerably his day; dining with someone and not alone would greatly improve his mood and he may find again his hobby for cooking; sleeping with someone would tame his demons and nightmares. He’d fall asleep faster and more serenely when his s/o gently caress his hair and rub his scalp, making him feel safe, at home.

Guido Mista

Mista is not a morning guy. He’s also not a person who oversleeps too; he’s up around 8-9 a.m., not at the ungodly 5-6 a.m of Bruno and Abbacchio but not even around 10-11 a.m as Narancia. Once he gets his 6-7 hours of sleep, he’s up. In the morning, he likes to take things easy, if he hasn’t a mission or a meeting: he takes his time to brew coffee, he eats his biscuits sitting on the windowsill, after giving his Pistols their beloved salame, usually he has to divide the babies that are fighting -usually 3 and 5- and then, finally, he takes a shower. His morning routine requires more or less one hour.

Especially if he’s back from a mission, he loves to take his time also to go home -or the HQ, if he feels like to stay here for the night-. He wanders through the so known streets, sometimes stopping to chat with someone he knows, sometimes stopping just to admire the landscape… he loves it. It reminds him that he made it again, that he has more time to live and that he’s finally home. Then, he usually heads to the HQ for dinner, as he doesn’t like to dine alone. Meals are something to share with his family!

He doesn’t have a precise time to sleep. It may be early, if he’s tired, but also late, if there’s a show he likes or he’s busy chatting with Narancia and Fugo. On weekends he usually sleeps at his small flat, but during working day he usually stops by the HQ also for sleeping, since it’s more convenient. In any case, he tends not to go to sleep after 12-1 a.m., even if his friends are still up, and sleeps just in his boxer. He’s a warm boy.

If he has a s/o, he’d sleep at home with them, no stories. He loves to wrap his arms around them while sleeping, keeping them warm and safe! In summer this could be a problem, but in winter it’s so damn perfect. And waking up near Mista is wonderful! His sleepy smile is the cutest thing around. And the Pistols would surely go to them to be spoiled, nestling on their hair and shoulders, making Mista huff and grumble about their behaviour. They’re like children, in the end!

Narancia Ghirga

Narancia is definitely not a morning guy. If he hasn’t a mission -and even so, he’d grumble, even if not actually complaining about- he loves to sleep long in the morning, all wrapped around his pillow, a happy smile on his face. Usually, it’s Fugo the one who throws him off of bed, mumbling that it’s late and he has to get ready, while opening the window. Even if he whines and complains, Narancia gets up and immediately shoves his face in the sink full of cold water, both in summer and winter: it’s his only way to wake up properly. Then he usually dresses quickly, running down in time for lunch with all the gang.

In the afternoon, after a mission or a meeting, he likes to go out to have some fresh air or, if he’s pissed off, to steam a little. If Mista is available, he’d go around with him; if not, he’d go to a secluded place where he can make Aerosmith fly as he likes, training on aim and range. He always felt like he was the only one Bucciarati didn’t “want” in the gang -he knows that Bruno did it not ‘cause he thought he was weak, but because he wanted him to have a normal life far from mafia, but it still stings- so he wants to prove both to him and to himself too that he is, instead, worth of his place. He’d come to the HQ when darkness is about to fall, to help Fugo cooking.

Narancia in fact is a person who falls asleep easily and on any surface. He just doesn’t want to sleep! Life is too short and he’ll sleep when he’s dead, he always says it. He stays up to chat with Fugo or Mista, huffing when they go to their room, usually after midnight - 1 a.m., and so he stays up watching some show on the TV or playing a video-game. If Bruno is in the HQ, he has to be careful not to be catched, or papa Bruno will scold him! But usually he’s pretty good at keeping things silent, during night, until he falls asleep face on pillow.

If he has a s/o, his days would be way funnier! He’d never make them feel alone or “forgotten”, as they’re his sun and moon. In the morning, he’d try to keep them in bed a bit longer, to cuddle a bit, while pouting in his adorable way that always, always makes them melt in a puddle of sweetness. He’d try to spend as much time with them as possible, since he’s often out for missions! With them and his friends and family. It’d be the perfect day! And then dine all together, chatting on the couch or on the balcony after dinner, staying up and cuddling together… Narancia can’t think about something better. Who needs heaven, when his is already on Earth?

Pannacotta Fugo

Fugo is definitely a morning person. Since his early childhood, he was used to get up rightly at 7 a.m. and by now he can wake up precisely at that hour even without alarm. He usually needs a good cup of strong coffee, in the morning, to properly get up, since it’s sure that he stayed up late, the previous night, to read. After a light and quick breakfast, he usually takes a shower, but then, once he’s all ready and dressed, he spends a bit of time just watching as the city slowly wakes up. By 7.30 a.m. the city starts to really get into business and Fugo is fascinated by how people run back and forth, how life pulses so hard and strong… even if he actively started to be part of that pulse, sometimes he still feels like he’s just a viewer of a bigger show. Not a bad show… just one he’s still not completely accustomed to actively join.

After a mission or a hard meeting, Fugo loves, and needs, to have even just half an hour for himself, to cool down. He usually goes to some park or to the library, to finally find some peace. He loves to lose among the books labyrinths, to pick a book and read a small part and then put it back, to explore new parks and find the most quiet spots… it makes him feel at ease, like he can breathe again. This, however, doesn’t last long; as much as he loves to spend some time alone, he also came to appreciate the time he spends with his family. And so, he soon goes back to the HQ, to join Mista, Narancia or Giorno in some chats; sometimes, if the topic can pick enough his interest, he slips into the teenager he really is, almost surprising even his teammates.

Fugo suffers of insomnia. He always did but, while before he grew angrier and angrier when he couldn’t sleep, ending up in total sleepless night because of his nervousness, now he just shrugs it off and waits in a resigned patience. Soon or later he’ll sleep, he always says. And so he usually stays up late, chatting with Mista, Narancia or Giorno, when Gold Experience’s user doesn’t go to sleep early, and then, more or less around midnight, he retires in his room. Here he lays down with a good book and reads and reads, going on until his eyelids are about to finally fall down. In the end, this method guarantees him at least 4-5 hours of sleep every night. Not enough, he perfectly knows, but still way more than before.

If he has a s/o, he’d adapt his routine to theirs. If they have a day off and they can wake up later, he’d stay more in bed -if he doesn’t have any morning errand to do-, just hugging them and relishing in their warmth until they wake up. He’d love to spend his time with them and less time alone, as their presence represents the peace he needs. If they also want to go to the library or to the park, then it’s wonderful! Spending time with them in a quiet place is the best he can ask for. Dinners would be even better, now that they’re here! And after dinner chats too, it’d all be better, with them around. More colorful, brighter. And he’d sleep even a bit more, especially if they let him nestle on their chest, relaxing under their caresses and cuddles or if they softly read aloud a book, lulling him to sleep. Fugo’s quite cute while he sleeps, his lips softly bent in a small pout, his pale eyebrows which furrow and relax… plus, especially if he’s really tired, he tends to hug tightly, as to never let them go and keep them safe and sound.

Giorno Giovanna

Mista sometimes pokes fun at him for this, but Giorno rises literally with the sun. In winter he rises later and in summer earlier, rightly following the sun, without forcing himself. It’s just like he feels it! He usually dresses and takes a shower, before going down to have breakfast, mostly because he wears curlers. Three big curlers on his forehead, those donuts don’t form by themselves! Even if he likes to make the others think so. He usually has breakfast with Fugo or, if he’s at the HQ, Bruno, quietly chatting and drinking his beloved morning tea. His day can’t start before a good cup of tea and a sweet, he needs it!

Giorno has a deep passion for gardening and mostly without using his Gold Experience. It doesn’t seem, but, even when he was at the high school campus, he was the one who always helped the gardeners with plants and flowers. He has a natural talent with it! Even at the HQ, Giorno found a small space to transform in “his” garden -which is, in fact, the communal garden- and, when he has a bit of time or needs to relax after a mission or a meeting, he hides here, among his beloved plants. Sometimes it can happen that he cheats using GE to refresh some flowers he particularly likes, but it’s really rare. He feels so good and at ease among plants, his little garden is the most beautiful of all the neighborhood! For once he feels good in something, after a childhood and early teenage years spent always hearing that he wasn’t enough and that he wouldn’t ever done anything good in life. It’s his way to take his “revenge” on those words.

Like he rise with the sun, when the sun starts to set down he starts to feel sleepy. In summer it’s not a problem, but in winter it can be an issue that could need even a cup or two of coffee to be solved. He tries to stay up as much as he can, as Giorno loves to hanging out with his friends, chatting, laughing, being for a bit the young boy he still is… but when Mista has to nag his shoulder to keep him awake, Giorno calls out the day and, after bidding his goodnight, retires for the night. After putting on the curlers, he nestles under the blankets, hugging his pillow or, even if no one knows it, a peluche; his mother never showed affection to him, she almost never took him in her arms and so, to fight the deep touch starvation he felt, little Giorno hugged pillows and peluches, wishing to be hugged back. It’s a habit he still has, even after so many years.

If he has a s/o, hugs are the keyword. Even if he comes out as wary, at first, once the relationship is stable and he trusts them with his whole heart, touches are really common among them. Giorno wakes up all wrapped around them, mumbling in his sleep, and it’s such a cute sight that his s/o can just melt in a puddle. They have to cuddle him! And waking up while feeling their lips on his cheeks or on his forehead, under his curlers, while their hands gently rub his scalp or back, is the most beautiful feeling in all the world. The day then goes on with a quiet breakfast -where Giorno often loses himself softly caressing their free hand- and then, when he’s done with missions and meetings, if they’re willing to he’d love to spend some time with them in the garden, simply chilling out or actively gardening, he doesn’t care as long as he’s with them. Dinners are wonderful, now that he has a family to share them with; and he’s so cute when he starts to get sleepy, losing his usual composure and yawning while rubbing his eyes and face to stay awake! When they’re finally in bed, he loves to nestle near them, hugging them tightly and visibly sighing in relief when they hug him back. It’s like a dream become true…

#jjba #vento aureo #bruno's gang #bruno bucciarati #leone abbacchio #guido mista #narancia ghirga #pannacotta fugo #giorno giovanna #fluff hcs #domestic hcs #headcanons #sfw #fanboyistransboy

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easyfoodnetwork · 4 years ago

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From the Strategist: 21 Best Grilling Gifts for Every Type of Grilling Enthusiast

Photo: ClassicStock/Getty Images

All the grills and grilling accessories a grill master could want, from the Strategist

At its most basic, grilling is cooking on an open flame, like what our prehistoric ancestors used to do, but if you’re not the kind of person who takes pleasure in lighting charcoal on fire and then cooking big slabs of meat on it, you might be struggling to find the best grilling gifts for someone who does. (Though even self-described grill enthusiasts sometimes need help finding an actually useful but still unique grilling gift.) So to make it easy, we rounded up 21 of the best grills and grilling accessories that would be excellent gifts for the person in your life who likes to fire it up.

For the griller who struggles with lighting charcoal

BBQ Dragon Cordless Grill Fan in Silver

Jean-Paul Bourgeois of New York City’s Blue Smoke calls the BBQ Dragon, “a fire starter’s best friend. This easy-to-use little gadget will clip onto any grill or smoker and assist you in getting those coals burning fast and evenly.”

For the griller who mostly cooks with charcoal

Panacea 15343 Ash Bucket With Shovel, Black

If anyone plays a little fast and loose with the disposal of coals, or wants a safer way to do it, this steel ash bucket will help prevent accidents. As Hugh Magnum, pitmaster at Mighty Quinn’s Barbecue, explains, “It sometimes takes as long as two days for coals to be completely cold, so you don’t put any coals for at least two days into a trash bag, or else that trash bag will go up in flames.”

For the griller who’s terrified of burns

Artisan Griller Insulated Cooking Gloves

Writer Caitlin M. O’Shaughnessy was introduced to these pit gloves by her mother, who used them to take a full turkey out of the oven. “The cotton-lined gloves are coated with neoprene rubber and designed for true-blue barbecuers who have to handle hot meat on the smoker — that means they’re also waterproof, stainproof, and (most importantly) greaseproof.” They also come recommended by Patrick Martin of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville, who actually prefers these heavy-duty gloves to tongs, especially when working with big cuts of meat, like whole hogs.

For the griller who’s looking to streamline

Stingray 7 in 1 BBQ Tool

Swap out the tool kit for this 7-in-1 grilling tool, recommended by self-described “pretty competent outdoor griller” Steven John, who calls this “the Swiss Army knife of grilling equipment, combining all three tools and even sporting a bottle opener built into its handle.”

For the griller who loves steak

Sloan Personalized Miniature Steak Branding Iron

For Valentine’s Day, writer Leah Bhabha gifted her carnivorous boyfriend a personalized branding iron, purchased on Amazon, and it was an instant hit. “We’ve now emblazoned his initials on everything from ribs to rib eyes, and even busted out the brander for cast-iron cooked burgers (the patty’s initials were covered by the bun, but he liked it so much he branded them anyway).”

For the griller who prefers chicken

Two-in-One Vertical Chicken Roasting Pan

Nick Pihakis of Jim ’N Nicks Bar-B-Q in Birmingham, Alabama, calls this chicken-roasting contraption “one of the best ways to cook a chicken. Not only is upright roasting the optimal position to roast a chicken (fat drips away, heat surrounds the chicken 360 degrees, skin crisps up better), this cooking method allows the steam and vapors to flavor the chicken from the inside cavity out, helping it to stay moist.”

For the griller who’s also a hibachi enthusiast

Elite Platinum EMG-980B Large Indoor Electric Round Nonstick Grilling Surface

If dinner has become a bit of a slog recently, consider setting up a hibachi or Korean barbecue night and using this highly rated indoor grill to do it. Reviewers on Amazon say, true to advertising, it’s truly non-stick (so feel free to go all in on your marinades) and is just as effective at grilling vegetables as a grilling a sturdy ribeye.

For the griller who’s not sure what to do with vegetables

Sur La Table Stainless Steel Grill Basket

Steven John recommends a grill basket, “that can be placed atop any sort of grill (charcoal, gas, or even wood fire) and filled with loose veggies, shrimp, fries, and so on.” It keeps these more delicate ingredients from sticking to the grill’s grates, and, as John notes, “the grate’s cleaner, too.”

For the griller who over-checks their meat

Thermapen Mk4 Thermometer

A meat thermometer is a must-have accessory for a barbecue enthusiast to quickly and easily ensure that meat is fully cooked but not overdone. And for my money, there’s no meat thermometer better than the Thermapen. As I wrote in my review of this gadget, “What makes the Thermapen stand out from other digital kitchen thermometers is its speed and accuracy. According to the manufacturer’s website, this food thermometer can tell the real-time temperature of whatever you’re trying to measure within 0.7 degrees Fahrenheit in under three seconds. That speed makes a noticeable difference when you’re balancing a roasting pan on a hot oven door as you try to take the temperature of whatever’s inside without burning yourself or letting out too much heat,” or dealing with a hot barbecue grill. (And I’m in good company. The Thermapen also comes recommended by Amy and Mike Mills of 17th St. BBQ in Murphysboro, Illinois.)

For the griller who’s getting into marinades

Boiled Cider Syrup

In his roundup of the best condiments you can buy on Amazon, writer Hugh Merwin recommends this boiled cider, which is “kind of pure apple essence,” he explains. However, that sweetness makes it an excellent addition to a barbecue tool kit. “Grillmasters use it at the base of marinades, where it tenderizes meat and its mildly tart and subtle flavor blends in with wood smoke.”

For the griller with a small patio

Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill

Recommended by Leslie Roark Scott of Ubon’s Barbeque in Yazoo City, Mississippi, this large yakitori grill is ideal for those in a “tight space. It’s the perfect size for a couple of steaks, and holds heat like a champ.”

For the griller with no patio

Weber 10020 Smokey Joe

If you’re looking to gift a truly portable grill, for someone who dreams of grilling in Prospect Park, the Weber Smokey Joe is a classic choice. It’s a no-frills option, but it’s got the same durability as the larger kettle-style Weber grill.

For the indoor grill enthusiast who hates smoke

Philips Indoor Smokeless Grill

We discovered this indoor smokeless grill while watching Queer Eye on Netflix, and it’s a solid option for someone who wants to grill but is constrained by the realities of living in an apartment. It uses infrared light to heat the grill and help prevent smoking from dripping fat.

For the indoor grill enthusiast who doesn’t want another gadget

Lodge Pro-Grid Cast-Iron Grill and Griddle Combo. Reversible 20 x 10.44” Grill/Griddle Pan With Easy-Grip Handles

Though it’s more likely to smoke up your kitchen, this cast-iron grill plate from Lodge is “the indoor grill that’s closest in spirit to firing up the charcoal.” (Plus, because it’s essentially a flat piece of cast-iron, it’s much easier to store than a new appliance.)

For the griller who likes that smoky taste

Z Grills ZPG-7002E

As Steven John explains, “a pellet grill is a barbecue grill that uses an automatically fed supply of wood pellets to maintain a preestablished temperature and infuse the cooking foods with smoke aroma and flavor. Your fuel source is also your smoke source.” That means your meat takes longer to cook, but it’s also got more smoky flavor, and in his testing of pellet grills, John liked this one from Z Grills, in part because “you can load up enough wood pellets for hours of smoking with minimal refills required.”

For the griller who wants to go full pitmaster

Masterbuilt MES 130B Digital Electric Smoker

On a long hunt for the “best, not-too-massive city grill,” Lauren Levy discovered that the best barbecue grill is actually this digital smoker from Masterbuilt. That’s according to Myron Mixon, the winningest man in barbecue, who explains, “It’s a digital smoker, so you can actually punch in the temperature you want and it takes you right there from 100 degrees to 275 degrees in just a few minutes.” He continues, “The truth is, everything that someone would want to barbecue you can cook with the Masterbuilt smoker, and it’s much more delicious.”

For the griller who likes to cook low and slow

Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker

The first rule of Grilling 101: Leave the meat be. But when you’re constantly worried about your provisions burning that can be difficult to do. That’s why the grilling enthusiasts of Amazon love the Akorn Jr., a ceramic, kamado-style grill that does an excellent job of maintaining low temperatures. Plus, it’s about a tenth of the price of the popular, kamado-style Big Green Egg grill.

For the griller who tries to keep their grill spotless

Drillbrush BBQ Accessories

I’ve written about the Drillbrush as the best tool to keep my shower clean, but the company makes different brush attachments with different stiffnesses for different purposes, like this barbecue accessories set, which can be used to detail-clean even the most grease-stained grill.

For the griller who likes to grill and chill

YETI Roadie 20 Cooler

“When you’re smoking whole hogs, you can’t go for a beer run, so you need a good cooler that’s going to keep your beer cold for the night,” wisely notes Patrick Martin of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. That’s why he recommends a Yeti cooler to keep by the grill. “I guarantee when you reach for a beer, it’s gonna be good and cold — just like it should be.”

For the griller who likes to carve meat

John Boos Block BBQBD Reversible Maple Wood Edge Grain BBQ Cutting Board With Juice Groove

This sturdy Boos block has a juice groove to catch any liquid that might come out when carving a big hunk of barbecue. (And this gift certainly doesn’t have to be retired once grilling season is over. It’ll also come in handy at Thanksgiving, when it’s time to carve the turkey.)

For the griller who likes eating barbecue more than cooking

Messermeister Avanta 4-Piece Fine Edge Steak Knife Set

Once they cook the meat, they’ll need something to help you eat it, and that’s where these Messermeister steak knives come in. “There’s a curious delight in using these very, very sharp steak knives to bisect a morsel of beef (or pork, or chicken, or whatever flesh you have lying around),” writes Katie Arnold-Ratliff in her ode to these. “The blade slices through the steak with tactile precision — a kind of buttery, slippery ease that makes me say every time my boyfriend and I use these knives, which is a lot, ‘Man I love these knives.’”

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Photo: ClassicStock/Getty Images

All the grills and grilling accessories a grill master could want, from the Strategist

For the griller who struggles with lighting charcoal

BBQ Dragon Cordless Grill Fan in Silver

For the griller who mostly cooks with charcoal

Panacea 15343 Ash Bucket With Shovel, Black

For the griller who’s terrified of burns

Artisan Griller Insulated Cooking Gloves

For the griller who’s looking to streamline

Stingray 7 in 1 BBQ Tool

For the griller who loves steak

Sloan Personalized Miniature Steak Branding Iron

For the griller who prefers chicken

Two-in-One Vertical Chicken Roasting Pan

For the griller who’s also a hibachi enthusiast

Elite Platinum EMG-980B Large Indoor Electric Round Nonstick Grilling Surface

For the griller who’s not sure what to do with vegetables

Sur La Table Stainless Steel Grill Basket

For the griller who over-checks their meat

Thermapen Mk4 Thermometer

For the griller who’s getting into marinades

Boiled Cider Syrup

For the griller with a small patio

Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill

For the griller with no patio

Weber 10020 Smokey Joe

For the indoor grill enthusiast who hates smoke

Philips Indoor Smokeless Grill

For the indoor grill enthusiast who doesn’t want another gadget

Lodge Pro-Grid Cast-Iron Grill and Griddle Combo. Reversible 20 x 10.44” Grill/Griddle Pan With Easy-Grip Handles

For the griller who likes that smoky taste

Z Grills ZPG-7002E

For the griller who wants to go full pitmaster

Masterbuilt MES 130B Digital Electric Smoker

For the griller who likes to cook low and slow

Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker

For the griller who tries to keep their grill spotless

Drillbrush BBQ Accessories

For the griller who likes to grill and chill

YETI Roadie 20 Cooler

For the griller who likes to carve meat

John Boos Block BBQBD Reversible Maple Wood Edge Grain BBQ Cutting Board With Juice Groove

For the griller who likes eating barbecue more than cooking

Messermeister Avanta 4-Piece Fine Edge Steak Knife Set

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newstanmarshblog · 4 years ago

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Carrying a Best Friend: Chapter 6

At Red Robin, Stan & Kenny are having a wonderful time with Karen. Stan & Karen were getting to know each other a little more that it was getting up to the point they were starting a new friendship together, and that really gave Kenny a joyful smile on his face. Some of the things that Stan & Karen share in common includes their love for animals, dark superhero characters, swimming, their dream to visit Yellowstone National Park, and their strong hatred on the hit show, Dancing with the Stars. When lunch was severed to them, Stan had his impossible burger while Karen had fish & chips.

*15 minutes later after their lunch was severed to them*

Karen: *laughing* Wow, that was one of the best and biggest meals that I ever had in a long time. I probably won’t have dinner tonight after this.

Kenny smiling: I’m glad you enjoy your meal.

Stan: And my burger was just the way that I like it. It almost tastes like my mom’s cooking on veggie burgers.

Karen: Your mom makes veggie burgers?

Stan: Yep. Even though I still love regular burgers, but sometimes whenever I’m in a mood for a decent size meal that doesn’t require meat, I’ll ask my mom to round up some veggie burgers. You should give my mom’s veggie burger a try someday. They’re some of my most favorite things that she ever cooks, and they taste like actual burgers.

Karen: I would love to give them a try someday. And speaking of your mom, how do you two think she’s gonna handle about your secret when you guys tell her later today?

Stan: That’s something that I’m very nervous about. My mom may have experience a lot of crazy things in the past, but I don’t know how she’s gonna react to my unusual virgin pregnancy. I’m just hoping she doesn’t have a panic attack or something worse.

Kenny: Well, Stan, you did said that your mom is a very trustful person. And knowing our moms very well that they love us so deeply that they’ll believe every word that we say to them, then I’m sure your mom will be very understandable.

Stan: Thanks, dude.

Karen: Give me a text or call sometime later after you two tell her everything.

Stan: Do you have a cell phone with you?

Karen: I only have a flip phone, but it still works pretty good.

Stan: Okay, then.

Stan & Karen exchange their cellphone numbers to each other.

Stan: I’ll give you a call later tonight if everything goes good with my mom.

Karen: I go to bed by around 10:00. So, if all is good between you and your mom, call me before then.

Stan: Will do.

After paying up for their lunch, they walk back to the McCormick’s house along with a to-go southern charm burger for Stuart. Later on following dropping Karen back to her home and saying goodbye to her, Stan & Kenny make their way back to the apartment building. And as they came in, Samson immediately gets excited to runs up to Stan. Stan gets onto his knees to greet his dog.

Stan smiling: Hey, little buddy! Happy to see me very early than usual?

Samson was wagging his tail, and gives Stan some kisses.

Stan: *laughs* You’re such a good boy.

Kenny was thinking into his mind of how adorable Stan was with his dog. It gives him a tiny ghostly blush.

Kenny: What time does your mom come home from work again?

Samson heard Kenny’s voice with an alert look on his face.

Kenny: Ah, shit! Sorry, dude.

Stan: It’s okay. It’s just the three of us until my mom comes home from work at least shortly after 5:00. And besides, I would like for Samson to get used of your presence here. Say hello to him.

Kenny: Okay…um, hi Samson. Recognize my voice? It’s me, Kenny.

The dog once again hears Kenny’s voice. Samson feels so confused onto why he’s hearing someone else’s voice right in front of him and yet doesn’t see that person anyway.

Kenny: I’m sorry that you can’t see me, boy. But I’m currently a ghost that’s gonna be here for serval months, and you’re gonna have to get used to hearing me like this until I’m alive again.

Samson begins to remember Kenny’s voice as they both often used to see each other every weekend whenever Stan takes him on a neighborhood walk. He gives Kenny a sweet bark.

Stan smiling: He recognizes you, dude. Despite on not seeing you, he at least knows that you’re right here with us.

Kenny: Great! Let’s see if he’ll come over to me in a further distance.

He flies over to where the dinning table is at.

Kenny: Come over here, Samson. Come here!

Samson runs to where Kenny was at in a lightning speed.

Kenny smiling: *laughing* Boy, you haven’t run up to me like that in a while.

Stan: He sure does like you just as much as me and mom.

Kenny: I may not be as much as a big animal lover as you and Karen, but I’ll admit, being around with Samson puts a big smile in my face. Kinda makes me wish that I have my own pet someday.

Stan: Maybe we should talk about that with your family the next we meet up any of them.

Kenny: Karen sometimes talks about on having a cat to keep our mice infestation under control, but we don’t have the budget to buy or adopt one at the moment.

Stan: Well, once your family budget is settled enough, go on ahead to adopt one from the animal shelter. And besides, cats are often more affordable to own than dogs.

Kenny: Huh, I didn’t know that. I’ll keep that in mind when we meet up with my dad again.

Stan: And in the meantime until my mom comes back, you wanna keep on playing with Samson for the time being?

Kenny: Sure! I definitely would love to see more of Samson’s playful energy that you keep telling me about.

For a while, Stan & Kenny have their fun with Samson. While Stan plays a game of fetch with him, Kenny plays a game with him that’s similar to hide-and-seek, expect that Kenny makes a whispering noise and Samson has to find the exact location to where the whispering noise is coming from. After about over 30 minutes of playtime, Samson eventually gets tired out, and Stan & Kenny decided to watch some classic Terrence & Phillip episodes.

*Later on at 5:05 pm*

While Stan & Kenny where still at Stan’s room watching Terrence & Phillip, Sharon finally returns home from work as Samson runs up to her as he barks. Stan & Kenny can easily hear Samson’s barking from the bedroom.

Stan: Sounds like she’s home. Are you ready, dude?

Kenny: Ready when you are.

Stan: *takes a deep breath* Let’s do this.

They leave the bedroom, and then head towards to where Sharon was at.

Stan: What’s up, mom?

Sharon: Oh, hi sweetie. I thought you would be at home a little later than me. How was your day today?

Stan: Well, after I pay my visit to the Mccormicks to see how they were doing, I decided to treat Karen for lunch at Red Robins.

Sharon: Wow, really? What did you two had over there?

Stan: I had an impossible burger while she had fish & chips. And while we were there, we got to know each other a little and found out that we had some things in common like our love for animals, and she also wants to go to Yellowstone someday just as badly as me.

Sharon: Sounds like you two are getting along pretty good.

Stan: Yeah, she’s a pretty fun and sweet person to be along with. I can see why Kenny loves being around with her all the time as he talks about her with me once a while. We even exchange numbers with so that way we can keep content with each once a while.

Sharon: I’m pretty happy to hear that you two are friends now. That’ll surely make Kenny very proud.

Stan: Oh, I’m very sure he’s feeling that way right now up above. And how was you day at work today?

Sharon: A very surprising day. You would never believe who showed up today to have a nose job.

Stan: Who?

Sharon: Jay Cutler.

Stan: Jay Cutler? You mean the former Bronco quarterback that sucked pretty hard during his NFL career?

Sharon: That’s right. He was over here as a pit stop before his final push to Black Canyon as his vacation destination, and last night shortly after he made his rent at the motel, he was over at the bar to grab himself a beer where he had a fight with PC Principal.

Stan: Woah! How did that happen?

Sharon: PC Principal basically called out on Cutler for supporting Republicans that aren’t for social justice, and that was when Jay Cutler threw in the first punch. While Cutler only made some bruises on PC’s chest and jawbone, PC threw in a serious punch at Cutler’s noise that caused a bit of major damage.

Stan: Damn. When did he showed up during your day at work?

Sharon: He showed up unexpectedly just shortly after I clocked in. He asked me for any open appointments, and as I was setting up his nose job appointment, that was when I asked him about his broken nose and he told me everything that lead up to it.

Stan: And what kind of nose job did Cutler ended up getting?

Sharon: He wanted a nose job that looked like Tom Brady’s nose, but it ended it up looking more like Phillip Rivers’ nose.

Stan: Ouch, that sucks for him. But anyway, I need to talk with you about something very important.

Sharon: How important is it?

Stan: Sit with me at the couch, and I’ll tell you everything.

They both walk together to the couch, and took their seat.

Stan: Mom, what I’m about to tell you is absolutely true, and you know very well that I would never, EVER, lie to you on any circumstances.

Sharon: Stanley, whatever it is, you can tell me about it. I’ve always believe in every word that you say to me no matter what.

Stan: *takes another deep breath* Some nights ago, a spirit came down to me from heaven, and asked me to take upon the biggest task that anyone has ever asked me to do. If I would’ve refused on his plea for help, he could’ve likely disappeared out of existence, and I really didn’t want that to happen since he’s someone that I care about so deeply. I accepted on helping him, but in order for that to get started, I have to carry that spirit’s fetus within me for 9 months. And now as of from this very moment, to the day that I’ll be giving birth to the spirit in order for him to become alive again, I’m currently pregnant with that spirit inside of me.

Sharon is very stunned from what she had just heard. Her very own son, pregnant with a certain spirit from heaven. She had no idea on what to say next as she was speechless for a moment.

Stan: Mom? Did you hear every word that I just said to you?

Sharon: Yes, yes, I heard everything. *another moment of silence* Are you really sure that you’re not pulling my leg?

Stan: This is no joke, mom. I cross my heart.

Sharon: I mean, how in the freaking hell are you able to become pregnant?! You don’t even have the bodies parts required to do that kind of task! And who is this spirit person that you’re talking about?

Stan: He is right here with us. My best friend.

He nods to his ghostly best friend to speak.

Kenny: Hello, Mrs. Marsh.

Sharon gasped as she hears Kenny’s voice.

Kenny: Sorry to scare you like that.

Sharon: Is that really you, Kenny? As a ghost, or something else?

Kenny: I’m a ghost that’s gonna stuck very close to Stan until he gives birth to me 9 months from now since my own mother isn’t alive to deliver me anymore.

Sharon: How is all of this even possible?!

Stan: I know all of this sounds very unreal to you, mom, but we’re about to explain everything. It’s gonna be a bit complicated though if you don’t mind that kind of stuff.

Sharon: As long as I can completely understand on what’s going on, then I’m fine with that. Just first explain to me on how you became pregnant because that’s something I need to know more than anything.

Stan: After I accepted to help Kenny, he placed his hand onto my belly, and all body parts that are needed for my pregnancy including a womb, a cervix, and the unborn fetus of him were placed inside of me spiritually.

Kenny: This action can only be done by immortal beings like myself.

Sharon: Wait a minute. You’re actually immortal? Like, you can’t die permanently?

Kenny: That’s right, but we’ll explain more about that in a moment. Anyway, for any immortal beings whenever they’re not breathing in the world of the living, they can knocked up any male or female human beings that they pick only as long they know them very personally. If they ended up choosing a male to do that kind of responsibility, then those body parts are spiritually put into the male human host and will disappear in about 24 hours later after giving birth. And we’re also not allowed to fly away more than ten feet away from our human host. Out of everyone that I knew very personally that’s best suited to do this kind of task aside from my mom, it had to be Stan. My sister isn’t old enough, my dad heavily drinks, and I don’t think any of my other friends wouldn’t be willing to do it. Stan was the only most realistic choice that I had.

Stan: Especially since Kenny is my BFF after all. It was a very hard choice for me to decide since making this decision also means I have to push back my football career aside for the time being, but I really didn’t want to lose him forever out of existence. I just couldn’t let that ever happen to my best friend that’s also like a brother to me. Losing him also would’ve meant losing a huge part of my happiness that’ll never come back ever again. If I would’ve let Kenny fade away, all of those memories that I shared with him ever since kindergarten, I would’ve never see them the same way again. And choosing to let your love one down that desperately needs you more than ever is like letting yourself down so deeply that you’ll never recover for making a dreadfully decision ever again. *begins to sob a bit* I’m really sorry, mom. Please understand on why I decided to do this. I just…didn’t want to lose another person that I truly love again so soon! *sobs way more*

Sharon was silent for a moment while looking at her son with a sadness look on her face.

Sharon: Stanley, you have nothing to feel sorry about after on what you just did for your best friend.

She gives her son a huge hug.

Stan: *still sobbing a bit* Huh?

Sharon: I’m very proud of you, sweetheart. By choosing to help not only with Kenny in his most desperate of needs, but you’re also helping with your own heart and soul that is more important than anything else in your life. You have so much love within you even more than I can say that to myself. I’ve been so overjoyed on the type of person that you’ve been growling up as for over the years, and now, you’ve exceeded my expectations. You have the greatest human soul that I’ve ever known, and I couldn’t be more than grateful enough to fully know what you truly are…

She gives Stan the most lovely kiss that she has ever given to him on his forehead.

Sharon smiling: An angel.

Kenny: She’s right. You’re just as much a compassionate person as me. Heck, I even learned some generous lessons from experiencing you helping others during our nearly lifelong relationship up to this point. As well along with my sister, you’ve been giving me some of the most happiest moments that I can ever ask for. You and I are not just the bestest of friends for the rest of time, but we’re also brothers very deep within our hearts too. And I truly love you for that very reason.

Stan wiping his tears away as he also felted so touched by the wonderful things that were said to him by his mother & best friend.

Stan smiling: Thank you both so much for not only giving me some of the most happiest moments in my life, but also on helping me to becoming the person that I am today. I love you all!

Sharon: And we both love you too, Stanley. Our beloved angel.

Sharon gives Stan one more sweet hug as Kenny also gives him a ghostly hug. And then shortly after Stan had to calmed himself down for a few moments, he & Kenny were ready to continue on talking with Sharon.

Stan: Okay, mom. You also must be wondering about Kenny’s immortality and wanting to know more about it, right?

Sharon: Yes, of course. If it’s just as important to know as your pregnancy, then I might as well learn all about that too.

They explained to Sharon onto everything that they know about Kenny’s immortality curse so far. From how powerful it is, and that it came from Cthulhu somehow. Too on how often he gets killed all the time, and then gets rebirth by his mother shortly afterwards. And to how nobody can’t remember seeing him getting killed because of his curse’s ability to wipe out memories of any mortal witnessing Kenny’s random death experience.

Sharon: My god. I’m terribly sorry to be hearing all the horrible things that you’ve been going through. I only hope that you’ll find the way to put into the end of your lifelong misery once and for all because after on what you told me everything about your curse, I wouldn’t even wish it upon to my own worst enemy.

Kenny: Thank you, Mrs. Marsh. Me and Stan here are actually trying to find the hidden location of to where Cthulhu’s worshippers gather at since they’re the only people that should know on how my curse was given to me in the first place, and they’ll likely know on how they can get rid of it for good. And I hope you mind if I ask you this question, but do you know anyone that worships Cthulhu?

Sharon: Sorry, but I don’t know anyone that worships Cthulhu. In fact, I’ve never even heard of him in my entire life until you two told me much about him. I apologize for not giving you guys any information. The only spiritual stuff that I know of mostly is pretty much anything from my christian faith.

Kenny: It’s okay. The Cult of Cthulhu is not that well known to most people since they’re a very secretive group. We even don’t know how many people there are that worship him globally.

Sharon: I see. So, they’re kinda almost like the Freemasons, but not as evil.

Stan: Yeah, that’s a good way to say about them in a nutshell. Anyway, Kenny’s sister should provide us any future information about them from her gothic friend whenever she gets them. And once we can finally track to their secret location, we plan on going over there in hoping to get rid of Kenny’s curse once and for all before I’ll be giving birth to him.

Sharon: Hold on a sec, Kenny’s sister knows about everything that’s going on with you two? Who else knows aside from her?

Kenny: It’s just my sister and dad so far as we actually told them early today.

Stan: And now we’re telling you everything about our secret as you’re the very first people that I wanted to tell.

Sharon: And who else do you two plan on telling to about this secret?

Kenny: My brother is gonna be told about it eventually whenever he comes to visit here.

Stan: I also would like to Shelly and uncle Jimbo to know about it too, but please don’t tell them through phone as I would prefer if you tell them about it privately in person. And we also plan on telling our secret to only four of our friends.

Sharon: And which of those friends might be?

Kenny: Kyle, Butters, Wendy, and Jimmy.

Sharon: Ah, they’re all really good friends to trust. Out of every friend that you two have made throwout the years, I definitely like those four the most as they’re all in general good people too. But what about Cartman? You two often hangout with him a lot.

Stan: He can be a decent friend at times, but he’s more often full of himself than anything else, and he is very impossible person to trust when it comes to private secrets because he’ll tell everyone about it in order to make himself laugh hysterically. We don’t feel comfortable at all to trust Cartman in this kind of secret.

Sharon: Yeah, I know that feels during my college years.

Stan: And speaking of college, I need to talk with you about rescheduling my college plans. While I’ll just focus on my Zoology studies for the time being until my pregnancy is over, I still really want to see if I can at least be qualify enough on becoming one of the quarterbacks on their football team for next year. And there might be that time when my belly is really starting to show, I’ll have to temporary leave college until my life is completely back to normal.

Sharon: We’ll talk about that pretty soon, Stanley, I promise. But right now, I can see that it’s almost 6 o’clock which means I gotta get going on making our dinner.

Kenny: Wow, it’s almost 6 o’clock already? Time really does fly by pretty fast once a while.

Stan: What are you making for dinner, mom?

Sharon: Well, for the sake on your pregnancy, you’re in luck. I’m making salmon along with a side of broccoli. And for dessert, I got you a yoghurt cake that is strawberry themed.

Stan smiling: All right!

Sharon: I’ll call you two when everything is ready.

Stan: Okay, mom. In the meantime, I’ll just give Karen a quick phone call since I promised her that I would call her later today.

Sharon: Alrighty, then. See you two in a bit.

About thirty minutes later after Stan & Kenny had their long conversation with Sharon and then making a quick phone call to Karen to let her know that everything went pretty well, they rejoined with Sharon on having a nice dinner together. Stan really loves his mother’s cooking so much that he even at one point said to her that her cooking skills out shines Randy’s any day. Following from finishing up their dinner and then giving Samson his dinner bowl, it was time for dessert.

Stan excited: Aw man, I’ve been looking forward to this the most!

Sharon: I know how much you love your strawberries, sweetie. Enjoy!

Stan takes a bite from his slice strawberry yoghurt cake, and he freaking loves it.

Kenny: How is it?

Stan smiling: Dude, once you’re alive again, you need to try this! This right here, is the best dessert of my life!

Sharon: I’m glad to hear that you’re enjoying your dessert, honey, but also try not to eat it so quickly. You need to eat your meals nice and normal during your pregnancy, just like how you were eating with your dinner plate.

Stan: Okay, I’ll keep that in mind. Oh, and since you mentioned my pregnancy, there’s something else that I’ve been needing to talk with you about.

Sharon: Let me guess, you want to know much from my own pregnancy experience so that way it’ll help you get through your first and likely only pregnancy experience at least a bit easier?

Stan: That’s right! How did you figured it out?

Sharon smiling: Mother knows best, sweetheart. As a person that went through two pregnancies, you’re gonna need to learn as much from me as possible so that way Kenny will be healthy enough by the time he is born.

Kenny: Can you give us a few advices for the night, please?

Sharon: Sure!

Stan firstly told his mother that he already found some information from the internet on how to eat and drink healthy for the next nine months. While Sharon was pretty pleased from hearing that, she still gave him on extra tips for his new food diet. One of them being is to stay away from many common snack foods like sugary cookies, candy, and Doritos. And for breakfast, Stan will have to say goodbye to Froot Loops and Frosted Flakes for a while and stick with Multigrain Cheerios and Kellogg’s Red Berries cereal. As for other important advices, Sharon recommends for Stan & Kenny to reduce as much stress as they can because too much stress can lead to Kenny becoming born prematurely that’ll result in having medical problems. Another advice that she gave to them is that they’ll need more than just on having 7 hours per sleep and should instead get as much as somewhere between 8-9 hours per sleep every night, or even sometime take a daily nap whenever they don’t get much needed sleep. And lastly, there was Stan’s main exercise routine that he often does everyday: walking. While he can still take Samson on his regular 30 minute morning walk as usual even as his belly will grow big in the months to come, but once his belly starts to get larger and in during those months if he needs or wants to go somewhere, he’ll have to start driving around more often instead because over walking will not be good for his pregnancy. As for other exercise suggestions, Stan can do weight lifting for each of his arm in serval minutes as long as the dumbbells that he uses weighs about to at least 12 lbs. And on bad weather days, Stan can try on doing yoga lessons which was something that he really doesn’t do at all as he usually prefers the workout style that he receives from football practice, but for the sake of his pregnancy, it’ll have to do.

It was almost 9 o’clock by the time they’ve end their second long conversation, and Sharon needed to catch her breath for a while from giving Stan & Kenny plenty of pregnancy tips for one night. Meanwhile, Stan & Kenny took Samson outside to let him do his potty work, and then returned back in ten minutes later.

Stan: Samson did one huge pee out there, so hopefully that’ll keep him from begging to go outside at three in the morning.

Sharon: That’s good. And boys, I have one more question that I’ll like to know about.

Kenny: What is it?

Sharon: When are you two gonna be telling about secret to your four friends?

Stan: We don’t know yet. It really depends on their schedules whenever they got enough free time.

Sharon: Well, keep me informed on that once you two have come up a date for it.

Kenny: Hopefully it’ll be sooner than later when we tell them.

Stan: Yeah, same. But right now, I just want to have some quiet time before I go to sleep.

Sharon: Okay.

Stan: Oh, and mom. Thank you so much for everything today. It really means the whole world to me.

Stan walks over to his mother to give her one last sweet hug for the night. Sharon was very surprised to be hugged by her lovely son for once as she was usually the one that dose all the hugging, and that Stan doesn’t give hugs to people very often. Heartfelt by her son’s action, she gives him another kiss, but this time in the lips.

Sharon smiling: And thank you for making me the most happiest mom in the world. Good night, my sweet angel.

Stan smiling: You too.

Stan walks to his bedroom.

Kenny: Woah, dude. I’ve never seen you doing anything like that in ages.

Stan: What do you mean?

Kenny: Hugging your mom like that. The last time that I ever saw you giving someone such a hug like that was with Chef shortly before his death.

Stan: Well, just like being with you, she makes me very human. Like back when I used to live at my dad’s farm before moving out, she would help me and Shelly to keep our good sense of humanity sprit alive despite of the hardships that we all had over there. Along with you, Kyle, and Wendy, my mom is one of very few people that helps to keep my life logical, hopeful, and happy around me. Without all of you, I might as well could’ve became a goth again.

Kenny smiling: Thanks, Stan. You also make me very human just as much as Karen does. My life would be very senseless without you two.

Stan smiles back to his BFF for a moment.

For the rest of the hour, Stan & Kenny just chilled out while watching a documentary about Pets on Youtube, and then Stan gets himself ready for bed.

Kenny: You know, dude. Just by watching that documentary really wants me to make an adoption on a cat for my family the more I think about it.

Stan: You wanna do a visit to the animal shelter at some point?

Kenny: Hmm, I don’t know about doing that during this pregnancy, but I’ll think it over later.

Stan: Okay, then. Let me know when you made a decision about that.

Kenny: Have a good night.

Stan: You too.

They both shut their eyes for a good night long sleep.

In the next chapter, Stan & Kenny talks to Kyle, Butters, Wendy, and Jimmy about their secret.

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autumnsmommy714 · 5 years ago

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Ok moms let’s get real for a few minutes here.

So I’m not a big complainer but seeing how this world has been going has really made me sit back and think about things. Let’s start out with a little bit of who I am first.

I am a hot mess mom and proud I own it.

My name is Christina and I am a 32 year old stay at home mom to a very wild threenager. She’s my world but she’s also a tornado and I’m pretty sure that she could break a nun. I have two dogs three cats all rescues and 5 chickens. My husband is a police officer and we moved up to New England about 2-3 years ago. We are slowly building a homestead which will eventually be out main source of income. It is a lot of hard work, time, energy, and money too but if we do it it will be the best thing for all of us. Now onto things that have just been annoying the shit out of me.

Go get your wine and sit down for bitchfest.

So first thing is first let me just put it out there that I really don’t care what color, race, sex ect you are. I accept everyone as long as you have a kind heart I could give two shits about anything else. I don’t care if your vegan, organic only, carnivore ect. I don’t care what you support until it gets to the extremes. Look I am Walmart-target shopping, hobby lobby loving, meat eating, coffee addict, wine loving, lover of lipsticks and highlighters, Pinterest wannabe, sweatpants-ripped jeans-leggings wearing woman. I get it. Everyone should do you and not care what overs think or say. Now that I have put that out there let’s get down to the shit shall we?

The extremists

Let’s start with my favorite topic ever that gets everyone’s blood boiling lately it seems. The clean eating organic only STOP EATING ANIMALS people. If that’s what you feel is right that’s fine but stop pushing it on others. Because we really don’t care and it’s annoying. If others like myself wanna go out and get a nice fat juicy burger then back off. If we decide to buy normal veggies without the organic stamp who cares? It’s going in out bodies not yours right?! And the clean eating.. I mean come on leave us all alone that’s not just like you. Your acting foolish.

I support farms

If I had a choice to buy fruits and veggies from a store vs a farm it’s the farm hands down everytime. EVEN IF ITS NOT ORGANIC. I support all farms big and small and I am all about local produce and small mom and pop shops. That includes meat. I have no problem buying fresh meats of all kinds from farms. They handle it all in the most humane way. I do not mean the big places that haul all the animals from different places to them to just butcher them. I mean the farms that raise their own livestock and do it humanly. I have animals I love love love animals but I’m not a vegan could never be. I enjoy my meats, fish, dairy ect too much. And I know their are tons of people just like me out there that are so sick and tired of people preaching to us over it. Or standing outside of farms ect with their little signs. Stop the crap. Good for you that you chose the lifestyle you did that’s awesome for you but leave us alone. Then it’s the clean eating or organic only or both. Look not all of us can afford to go into Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s every week. We are not all like you Karen. Hate to rain on your parade but sometimes NO IT DOES NOT TASTE BETTER! Yea I said it go back to your juice bar and deal with it. Now that that has been said let’s go onto the next topic..

Picture perfect moms

Now we all know exactly what I mean here. The moms that dive these sparkling clean white mom cars YES THEY ALL SEEM TO ALWAYS BE WHITE that has all nice clothes on, all the kids are all nice and perfect even their small all toy dog is perfect. We alllllll know that at night once your kids and husband or wife or whoever is in bed you are drinking that mom sized bottle of rosè with all your makeup on watching the bachelor. But when us hot mess moms are out at the exact same target as you, you like to give us the stink eye as if we are a peasant as our kid is having a shit fit in a half over nothing and you have your 4-5 year old Michael Korhs bag hanging off our arm, with none or minimal makeup on. Yes we are not all shiny and perfect, yes our roots are showing, yes our skin doesn’t look like a baby’s ass, yes our kids are out of their minds and yes our bottle of wine at home is the cheap shit but behind closed doors we are probably much happier then you because we don’t need to fake it. Yes most not all but most myself included are on Pinterest daily saving shit we will never make because we are not crafty at least I know I’m not. And you know what I really don’t care. I’ll never be that pta mom, or the mom with all the latest styles, my nails are never done and when they are it’s probably going to be a weird color and not pink. I hope my kid doesn’t want to be in Girl Scouts because I was and I hated it. And yes I run on coffee daily I couldn’t live without it. So when your out and you see us don’t be a Katy bitch mind you’re damn business because we all know behind closed doors your not as perfect as you like to act you are. Now let’s get into the topic that triggers people the most.. politics, religion and everything else that people are too afraid to talk about.

I will NOT be saying who I am voting for but I will be talking how foolish you all act.

Alright let’s get into it shall we. The whole #notmypresident crap is way way too old now. It’s a witch hunt and let’s all face it if this man was ANY other color OR sex this shit would not be happening. Enough is enough. The endless protests, endless violence all of it just stop. At the end of the day he is who he is and no one can change it. We don’t all have to agree with everything he says and does I don’t. But it is what it is now. Enough. The attacks on anyone and everyone that supports him is sickening. You all are out of your damn minds. I mean my god. Grow up move past it. Now let’s talk religion.. stop coming to all of our damn doors preaching!! We don’t want you telling us what you insist we must believe in and to be honest the stuff you give us goes right into the trash. We don’t care we have our own views we don’t need yours. Go away. Oh and one thing I didn’t mention earlier the parents out there that are not putting down what gender their child is when they are born because they want them to find out themselves what they feel they are.. what drugs are you on?! Your worried about kids not knowing what sex they are from birth?! The world isn’t the one confusing those kids it’s you it’s the parents! Why don’t you let your child grow up and once they start feeling that maybe they are not meant to be the sex they were born then you go from there. That’s when you are open to your child and you let them be whatever they feel they are but not right out of the womb. Come on. If my child one day says mommy I feel like I was meant to be a boy then we will have a talk and myself and my husband will accept her for whatever sex she is AND whatever sex she falls in love with AND any race they are. And the parents that’s anti vaccine.. lemme tell you something if your kid brings in some sickness due to this and my baby gets it I will gladly break your damn face. YOU and only YOU are putting your child at risk. Vaccines does not cause autism ect your are born with it. Stop being assholes.

Well with all of that being said..

I think I am done for now bitching although I’m sure I’ll have more to say very soon. So moms out there go get your Starbucks, or Dunkin’ Donuts, or your home brewed coffee, or whatever other brands their are out there and enjoy it even if it’s the second or third time your warming it up for the day. And tonight sit down once everyone is asleep and everything is cleaned and enjoy your wine, beer, vodka, whatever. And too my fellow hot moms out there I feel you I get you and I appreciate your hot mess self. ❤️

#momlife #coffee lover #may be triggering #pintrest #politics #vaccines #farms #new england life

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thesecretlifeofalesbian20s · 8 years ago

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Long Post: Body Positivity

Today is my last day of the Whole30. What a life changing experience. Thanks to Matt Dymoke for inspiring me to take the plunge. I'm not going to lie, the first 20 days sucked. So much! I didn't realize how bad I was addicted to sugar. Or alcohol for that matter. However, here I am Day 30 super excited to eat protein pancakes, chickpeas, and have a bottle of wine 🍷, priorities right?! These past 30 days have taught me so much about my relationship with food, something I've struggled with since I was 10. Something I've struggled with for 15 years! My reason for starting the Whole 30? Well for the past couple months my stomach/digestive tract has been super sensitive and upset. Anything I'd eat would give me a tummy ache or bloat me. I also felt so exhausted all of the time. These past 30 days I haven't had any tummy aches, bloating, and I've felt pretty great. It is something that I'll probably do again! Also, I lost 10 pounds and 5 inches off of my stomach! Definitely a bonus :) Those that know me well know I haven't eaten meat (chicken, cow, pig, etc.) for anout 12 years. I'm pescatarian, which means I eat seafood as well as fruits veggies grains eggs, just like other vegetarians. I am not vegan. When people ask me, they seem to think that they know my lifestyle more than I do and that really pisses me off. Yes, I know the difference between vegan and vegetarian. Do not tell me I'm vegan. Also, I'm not doing it because of the animals and their well being. It's an added bonus because they aren't treated well, however eating meat makes me physically ill! Bloated, gassy, painful, etc. Dont feel bad for me because I can't eat meat, my cholesterol and blood pressure are great because of it. And it's cheaper. I technically can eat Deer, Bison, and Lamb and not get sick. Over the years I think I figured out that all of the poisonous antibiotics, chemicals that we feed or inject into our meat, and the "food" we feed them is what is causing me to become 😷. I haven't tried free-range and after 12+ years of not eating it, I'm okay with not eating it. Also, I basically don't eat food that make me sick. Why would I eat food that makes me sick just because I crave it or because it tastes good? Eating takes like 1-20min, being sick (bloating, stomach cramps, indigestion,etc.) lasts DAYS. Taking tums and or pepto IS NOT A HEALTHY WAY TO MANAGE THIS. I WANT to be healthy. I want to live a long healthy life. There are too many diseases or other ailments nowadays that people have that are 100% PREVENTABLE. Type ll Diabetes, heart disease, heart attacks, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, to name a few. Why would I want to spend money on taking medications for these ailments when they COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED WITH EATING HEALTHY. Yes, eating healthy is expensive. However, I am investing in myself, my body, and my health by buying and fueling myself with healthy food. My opinion, I don't care if you agree or not. Of course I'll have "fun food" once in a while, hello the state fair! Or pizza, I love pizza, cake, ice cream, and French fries. But I'm not going to eat that everyday. Eating that often makes me feel sluggish, constipated, and bloated. WHO ENJOYS FEELING LIKE THAT?! Not me. I'm not "starving myself of the foods I want to eat" or "depriving myself" I'm actually doing to opposite! Those are treats! And I get to treat myself to them on special occasions. For those of you that didn't know, I used to struggle with eating disorders. I used to starve myself because I was fat and hated being fat. Kids at school used to sing fat songs to me in the halls or at lunch. It wasn't fun. I also get grossed out super fast so if something grossed me out, I wouldn't eat. Over the years I've learned that my visual brain likes to trick my eyes into seeing hair in my food. For those lucky people that it doesn't bother, I'm jealous. Detached hair never bothered me until I met one of my ex boyfriends and old roommate. He used to dangle my detached hair on me when I couldn't move. Super gross. And my roommate told a story of mean girls putting hair in her moms sandwich at school. Super fucking gross. So no I cannot do hair in my food, even if it's mine. I'm done eating for a few hours-days. Or if I'm out in public and someone BLOWS THEIR NOSE in the middle of a restaurant, well you're an asshole because now I can't eat ANY of my food. Especially eggs. I'm not sure how this one started, and I've found out that it doesn't bother anyone else besides me and my mom, however old men STOP BLOWING YOUR DAMNED NOSE AT THE TABLE. While I was in school at UMD or SPC, my brain, every couple of weeks or months would love to torture me for about a week. Every time I would try to eat, something would be wrong with it and I couldn't eat. For 5 days. It is so rough. I want to eat SO BAD! But I can't, otherwise I'd throw up. Last Jan 2016, I joined Tone It Up, and since then I've only had 1 situation happen. It's been amazing! I've done a lot of research about how food (macros, proteins, carbs, fats,etc.) effect your body (with working out) and I know that starving yourself is very bad! So I don't do that anymore, on purpose. Plus, I love food. I don't like to do fad diets because they obviously don't work because they're not sustainable. Lifestyle changes are. I am also not looking to "lose weight" I literally don't care how much relationship with the Earth and gravity is via lbs. I love my body and myself. Do you know why? Because I've done some amazing things! I've hiked a volcano, I used to be in show choir, I've done ballet, I was in marching band, I've stand up paddleboarded Lake Superior!, I've ran countless of 5Ks, 10Ks, and even finished a 1/2 Marathon, I've done cross fit, yoga, weight lifted, Zumba, volleyball, softball, karate, gymnastics, soccer, I've ridden horses, shot a gun, became a Yoga Sculpt Instructor, done cycling,etc. my body has done amazing things! I am thankful for all that it has done for me! I think it's beautiful and strong 💪🏼. Of course there are things that I don't like. I don't like my stomach. I would love to see some abdominal definition! I would love to be confident in my bikini because I'm not. These statements are not inviting you to tell me that you think I'm tiny or skinny or that I'm fine and should be confident in a bikini. Or that girls bigger than me wear bikinis and are confident. I don't care! They are my opinions and how I feel. You telling me that I should feel confident in a bikini won't actually make me feel that way. I appreciate the gesture! I love to tell people how beautiful they are and that they are rocking whatever they are wearing that day. What I'm trying to say is that just because I'm doing the Whole 30 or the TIU Bikini Series, or I've decided to do a month of raw food (super fucking hard, I don't know how people only eat raw 24/7), doesn't mean that I'm unhappy with my body or that I'm trying to lose weight. It's because I love trying new things, I like noticing the different changes in my body or how eating a specific way or training for something effects my body, or I'm supporting a friend (went GF for a month to support a friend who has to be GF), or just to change things up. It also helps me work in the service industry too because when people come in with celiacs or are Gluten intolerant, I know what it's like to not be able to eat anything off the menu, or worry about if this time the kitchen messes up and I get sick, or what to look for in ingredients to help people out that can't eat them. It may feel snobby to ask for the Gluten free menu because it's becoming so "in" right now, but why judge someone on that?! Why is there a stigma on that? It fucks with their body, why judge that?! Long post/rant over with. ☺️ Also, it's midnight!!! WHOLE 30 OVER!

#body positive #bodypositivity #strong #thesecretlife #thesecretlifeofalesbian20something #tsl #tslol2s #lesbian

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florahecate · 6 years ago

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Read More 25 Easy (and Cheap!) Ways to Lose 5 Pounds

The following post 25 Easy (and Cheap!) Ways to Lose 5 Pounds is republished from Eat This Not That by Eat This, Not That! Editors

A lot has changed since the days when a fat belly indicated a fat wallet. Now, people pay more for the healthy stuff while the least expensive foods are often the ones packed with waist-widening calories.

But just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t lose a few pounds without breaking the bank. To prove it’s possible, we checked in with some of the nation’s leading weight loss experts and asked them how to get lean for less. The following tips are simple things that fit easily into your life, won’t empty your wallet, and can help whittle down your waistline without emptying your wallet. Once you see how affordable it is to take control of the chub, be sure to check out 42 Ways to Lose 5 Inches of Belly Fat.

Cook in Bulk

Cook at home and cook in bulk, suggests registered dietitian Lauren Minchen. “Depending on how frequently you eat out, cooking your food at home can save you hundreds of dollars a month. And cooking in bulk is great if you’re time-strapped. It saves you time while allowing you to monitor the ingredients, calories, and portions in your meals. Win win win!” Not sure what to make? Soups are super easy to make and will last you all week. These 20 Best-Ever Fat Burning Soups are many of our editor’s go-tos.

Get Competitive

Register for a race or competition. They’ll cost you anywhere from $35 to $125 dollars, but the training aspect, which can last for months, is practically free. “There’s no better way to motivate yourself to get up from your office chair than knowing you have a race coming up,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Michelle Dudash. “Plus, running is one of the cheapest sports you can do because the only special equipment you need is good pair of running shoes and a training program, which you can get online for free.” Looking for a healthy way to recover after your workouts? Whip up one of these 23 Best Protein Shake Recipes.

Make Eggs Your Friend

“Eggs are very inexpensive and have been shown over and over to help with weight loss,” says registered dietitian Cassie Bjork. “What’s more, eggs are considered the most bioavailable source of protein, which means your body digests, absorbs and uses the protein in eggs better than in any other food in the world.” A pricey cut of steak can’t even claim that! To learn more about eggs’ magical weight loss powers, check out our exclusive report What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Eggs.

Buy What’s In Season

“If you are going to buy fresh produce, it’s important to know what’s in season and what isn’t,” says registered dietitian Leah Kaufman. Things that are out of season will cost you far more cash than produce that’s just hitting its peak. Registered dietitian nutritionist Sarah Koszyk agrees: “For the winter season, try Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, kale, turnips, persimmons, tangerines and kiwis.” Broccoli, berries, tomatoes and salad greens will be cheapest in the summer, while asparagus, cauliflower and spinach are easiest on your wallet in the spring. And if you’re curious which fruits and veggies pack the biggest nutritional punch, check out these 50 Healthiest Foods on the Planet.

Buy Frozen Foods

“Whether you’re on a budget or not, frozen vegetables are a great buy,” says Kaufman. “They’re cheaper than fresh vegetables and contain just as many nutrients.” Wondering how stocking up on the stuff can help you slim down? “Vegetables are vital for weight loss because they’re low in calories and high in fiber. Consuming fiber keeps you feeling fuller longer so you will feel satisfied and won’t be tempted to snack.” But fair warning, not all frozen foods are created equal: If you want those last five pounds to come off quickly steer clear of these 48 Worst Frozen Foods in America!

Ditch the Dollar Menu

Pre-made meals may save you time but they aren’t necessarily the healthiest picks and they’ll seriously cut into your budget. “By cutting back on pre-made meals, packaged, and processed snacks you’ll have a lot of room leftover in your food budget for the nourishing, real foods that fuel your body with the nutrients it needs for weight loss,” says Bjork.

Meal Prep—Even Snacks

“Grabbing a quick snack, whether it be a snack bar or a piece of fruit costs far more at a coffee shop, airport or gas station than it does at a grocery store or farmer’s market,” warns Dudash. To avoid spending unnecessary cash when hunger strikes, she recommends building a clean eating arsenal stocked with grab-and-go pieces of fruit, like apples, pears, and bananas.

Stick to Tap Water

“Don’t blow your budget on sugar-laden beverages that will only stand in the way of your weight loss goal. Instead, sip tap water. This simple swap will save you calories and cash, and supports weight loss by nourishing your cells and flushing out toxins,” explains Bjork. Can’t stand the taste of regular H20? Whip up a batch of one of these 50 Best Detox Waters for Fat Burning and Weight Loss.

Adopt a Plant-Based Diet

Research shows that switching to a plant-based diet not only promotes weight loss but also lowers your cholesterol, reduces hypertension and extends lifespan. There’s more good news: A meat-free diet can also save you thousands—yes, thousands—of dollars. “I recently switched from a moderate animal protein diet to a plant-based diet and so far I’ve saved about $40 per week, which will easily add up to savings of $2,000 per year,” says the owner of Naples Personal Training, Dr. Sean M. Wells. That’s enough cash to spend on a tropical vacation! (Hawaii, anyone?) Looking for an easy-to-made addition to your plant-based diet? Consider making some of these 50 Best Overnight Oats Recipes.

Make Mondays Special

Can’t imagine giving up your favorite burgers and fillets for good? Consider adopting Meatless Mondays—the campaign that encourages people to kick off their week sans meat. “I’m an advocate for Meatless Monday for both budgeting and ethical reasons,” says personal trainer Ajia Cherry. Although there are many vegetarian and vegan sources of protein, Cherry is a big fan of beans. “Beans, especially dried black beans, are inexpensive and contain heart-healthy antioxidants, filling fiber, iron and muscle-building protein.” Nutritionist Tammy Lakatos Shames, who’s also a proponent of going meat-free once a week, likes to swap ground beef for mushrooms. “If you’re not ready for a complete swap, you can start by mixing meat with mushrooms, it will boost your meal’s fiber and stretch you dollar further,” she explains.

See The World As Your Gym

Drop the excuses about how you can’t get to the gym—you can work out anywhere, really. “Shedding pounds and getting healthy doesn’t require a gym, boutique fitness studio or a CrossFit box,” says Wells. “Join a local soccer league or walking group or do bodyweight calisthenics at home. My next door neighbor loves to use his tree for pull ups and dips. If you’re willing to get creative you can save anywhere from $50 to 300 per month—that’s a car payment!” For more trim down tricks from the nation’s foremost fitness experts check out these 25 Weight Loss Tips From The World’s Fittest Men.

Pland Around Sales

Before scouring Pinterest for recipes you want to make, check your local market to see what’s on sale, suggests registered dietitian Ilyse Schapiro. “After you know what the best deals are, then plan your meals for the week. Also, sign up for a bonus card at your local market. Rewards programs can save you a lot of money in the long run.”

Don’t Take Shortcuts

“Skip the pricey pills and detox juices. They’ll cost you an arm and a leg and most of them don’t work,” warns registered dietitian nutritionist Marisa Moore. A cheaper, more effective solution? These 22 Best Teas for Weight Loss!

Think Local

“Not only is the food from a farmers market tastier, it’s cheaper, too,” says Schapiro. “Food bought locally doesn’t have to travel long distances, so the prices tend to be lower. And if you shop at the end of the day, you may get even better deals because the farmers want to get rid of their stock. For even more cheap ways to shed the pounds, check out these 40 Ways to Lose 4 Inches of Body Fat.

Shake Up Your Own Protein Drink

“Commercial bars and workout drinks can be very expensive. What’s worse, they offer little more to your body than what basic fruits, vegetables and nuts can provide,” says Wells. “Ounce for ounce, homemade smoothies or snacks will not only be cheaper but probably healthier for you, too.”

Repurpose Leftovers

You may not have enough leftovers to squeeze out a second meal, but that doesn’t mean you should throw the food out! “Wasted food is wasted money, says Schapiro. “Leftover fruits and vegetables can always be added to a smoothie or protein shake and vegetable and grain scraps can be added to a soup, a stir-fry, or omelet.”

Brew Your Own Cup

Love fancy coffee drinks? Learn how to make slimmed-down versions of your favorites at home, suggests Minchen. Not only will making your drinks save you thousands of dollars, but it will also help keep excess fat off of your frame, too. Our Healthy Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino Copycat Recipe is a great way to get into the make-it-yourself groove!

Tune to YouTube

Celebs may pay her the big bucks to whip them into shape, but celebrity trainer Kit Rich says it’s possible to get into your skinny jeans without spending a dime. “The cheapest and easiest ways to lose weight through exercise is by doing YouTube workout videos. There are a lot of fun and effective programs available for free!” And to see the results of your sweat session shine through even faster, check out these 7 Ways to Make Your Workout 500% More Effective.

Slip Into Your PJs

Getting a proper night’s rest is totally free and it offers major weight loss perks. “When you don’t get enough sleep, levels of the hormone leptin drop, which increases appetite. This surge in appetite makes comfort food more appealing, which can derail weight loss efforts,” explains personal trainer to the stars Jay Cardiello. “I tell all of my celebrity and professional-athlete clients to get between 6 and 8 hours of sleep per night.” Want to lose even more weight while you sleep? Check out these 30 Things to Do 30 Minutes Before Bed to Get Lean.

Order an Appetizer

The average restaurant meal contains a whopping 1,128 calories, according to a 2013 University of Toronto study of 19 sit-down restaurant chains. And those numbers have likely increased since then! To save money and calories while dining out, registered dietitian Yasi Ansari suggests ordering a healthy appetizer (like seared scallops, mushroom caps or a salad) or splitting an entree with a friend.

Looking for more ways to lean out? Be sure to check out these 20 Weight Loss Tricks You Haven’t Tried.

Make a List

“Spend a couple of minutes each morning writing out a list of reasons you want to live a fitter and healthier life,” suggests author of the top model fitness guide, Methodology X Dan Roberts. “It won’t be conscious, but doing this exercise will help you make better decisions when choosing food and snacks throughout the day.”

Don’t Be Swayed By ‘All-Natural’ Claims

Foods stamped with an “All Natural” label tend to cost more, but since the claim isn’t regulated by the FDA, it doesn’t really mean anything. “Instead, read ingredients and then decide which products are worth more of your hard-earned cash,” suggests Cardiello.

Swap Snack Bars for Fresh Fruit

“The average snack bar or bag of chips will cost you two dollars, but a piece of fruit will only cost you 50 cents. Stick with a piece of fruit to save calories, fat and cash on snacks,” says certified dietitian nutritionist Dana James.

Eat More Canned Tuna

There’s no doubt that protein sources like chicken breasts, tuna and salmon are healthy, but they’re not the most economical. For that reason, Dudash recommends buying the canned varieties. Not convinced? Consider this: A four pack of canned tuna from Walmart is less than $4. It doesn’t get much cheaper than that!

Eat This! Tip

Worried about the mercury in the tuna? Don’t be. Generally speaking, the smaller the fish, the lower the mercury level. Since canned chunk light tuna is harvested from the smallest fish, it’s safe to consume two to three times a week.

Use Your Non-Dominate Hand

Been a righty your entire life? Eat dinner with your left hand. “It takes roughly 15 minutes for your brain to realize that you’re full,” says Cardiello. “To give your mind time to catch up to your mouth, simply switch your fork to non-dominate hand. It may be frustrating, but it’s a simple and unnoticeable way to curb overeating and lose weight.” And for even more must-try slim down tricks, check out these 20 Weight Loss Tricks You Haven’t Tried.

The post 25 Easy (and Cheap!) Ways to Lose 5 Pounds appeared first on Eat This Not That.

#Eat This Not That

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derrickappleus · 6 years ago

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21 Healthy Family Instant Pot Recipes

It’s so difficult to find healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. I mean, now that I think about it, it’s actually pretty hard to find healthy recipes that don’t require hours of work in the kitchen. Every once in a while, I’ll find a dish that my entire family loves but it might take three hours to make! I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time for that. That’s why I wanted to share these 21 healthy family Instant Pot recipes. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they’re kid approved!

The Instant Pot has found a special place in my heart. It really brings out the flavors of different ingredients, it’s super easy to use, and it literally does the cooking for me. On top of all those amazing qualities, my Instant Pot is also a magical device. I know, I know: that sounds crazy. But there’s just no other explanation for how these 21 healthy family Instant Pot recipes please every single member of my family. Talk about amazing!

If you don’t believe me, grab your Instant Pot and get to cooking the recipes below. You’ll be amazed at how much they please everyone (including your kids).

1. Easy Instant Pot Jambalaya

It’s truly incredible how quickly the flavors come together in this recipe (thank you, Instant Pot!). This is a perfect weeknight dinner recipe because it’s ready in only 30 minutes. Seafood-loving families will really dig this recipe, too, because the shrimp really pops in this meal!

2. Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

My family and I love Cajun pasta, but it’s not easy to find a good healthy recipe. This meal by Lexi’s Clean Kitchen is healthy and deliciously creamy. In fact, it’s so yummy that it’s hard to believe that all the ingredients are totally clean and it takes less than 20 minutes to make.

3. Low Carb Corned Beef and Cabbage

The creator of this recipe, Sugar-Free Mom, is notorious for making meals that the entire family loves. That being said, you can trust that this is one of those healthy family Instant Pot recipes that’s a total crowd pleaser. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or not, your family will thank you for making this corned beef and cabbage recipe.

4. Instant Pot Minestrone Soup

This soup recipe by Pinch of Yum is a perfect, warm bowl of tasty ingredients that fits the bill on a chilly winter night. It’s especially great for snow days! Enjoy this as a healthy dinner after a full day of playing out in the snow with the family, making snowmen, and having snow ball fights.

5. Instant Pot Loaded Baked Sweet Potato

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like baked potatoes. I mean, what’s not to like about them (except that they’re usually unhealthy)? Thanks to this SkinnyMs recipe, you can have a guilt-free baked potato because it’s made using only healthy ingredients. Since it’s just as delicious as the typical baked potato, everyone in the family will love it.

6. Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Smoky, savory, and super tender: this Instant Pot recipe will not disappoint you or your family. It only requires a handful of ingredients and it can be served however you like. I love making this pulled pork by Gimme Some Oven, buying some whole grain buns, and serving it up as a sandwich.

7. Healthy Chocolate Steel Cut Oats

If you thought that your Instant Pot could only be put to use for dinner recipes, boy were you wrong! This breakfast recipe by A Virtual Vegan proves that breakfast and Instant Pots go hand-in-hand. Since it involves chocolate, you better believe that this is one of those healthy family Instant Pot recipes that the whole family will love!

8. Chai-Spiced Instant Pot Applesauce

As it turns out, not all store-bought applesauce is actually healthy for you. Fortunately, Oh My Veggies makes a healthy applesauce using pears, apples, and a ton of tasty spices. It’s easy to make in the Instant Pot and it’s the perfect snack or dessert for the whole family!

If you’re looking for an Instant Pot applesauce recipe that sticks to using apples as the only fruit, try our Instant Pot Applesauce!

9. 5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

We’re talking about healthy family Instant Pot recipes, which means that including mac and cheese on this list is a must! When it’s as healthy as our SkinnyMs recipe, it truly is perfect for the whole family – kids and adults alike.

10. Quick & Easy Lo Mein Recipe

This Instant Pot recipe by Simple Healthy Kitchen is one of my favorites. It’s the perfect healthy option when the family is craving Chinese food! Plus, it’s customizable and can be ready in just 15 short minutes.

11. Instant Pot Potato Salad

If you’re looking for something healthier to bring to your next summer BBQ, Fit Foodie Finds has your back with this Instant Pot recipe. She turned a summertime favorite into a healthy choice by swapping out unhealthy ingredients. Instead, this recipe uses nutrient-dense choices like:

Greek yogurt

Apple cider vinegar

Fresh lemon juice

Green onion

This recipe was a hit at my last family BBQ!

12. Instant Pot Classic Hummus

All I have to say about this Instant Pot recipe by A Pinch of Healthy is “WOW!” I had no idea that you could make hummus using an Instant Pot, and now I plan on doing it all the time. My entire family loved this dish when I made it as an appetizer last week.

For more healthy hummus recipes, check out our White Bean & Herb Hummus, Avocado Hummus, and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.

13. Instant Pot Chunky Beef Stew

If your family prefers to warm up with meat, this SkinnyMs recipe is for you. Thanks to the beef, one serving has 23 grams of protein. And, because it has an abundance of veggies, you’ll get tons of vitamins with this recipe, too.

14. Instant Pot Refried Beans

Laa Loosh loves creating healthy family Instant Pot recipes, and I am so glad she does! With healthy ingredients like pinto beans and cumin, you can’t go wrong with this side dish. Especially because it tastes so delicious, too!

15. Instant Pot Chickpeas

Chickpeas are one of my favorite foods for multiple reasons. They’re a great source of plant-based protein, they’re yummy, and they make a great healthy side dish for just about any meal. If you’re not so sure, try out this Instant Pot recipe by Healthy Nibbles and Bits and see what the family thinks.

16. 15 Minute Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

In my house, the family breaks out into song and dance when I say that mashed potatoes are going to be on the dinner table. “Monster Mash” just starts coming out of everyone’s mouths and that’s the end of it. The kitchen turns into a Broadway stage right before my eyes!

If you and your family feel as strongly about mashed potatoes as we do, you need to try this recipe by Delish Knowledge. It’s one of my favorite healthy family Instant Pot recipes.

17. Instant Pot Asian Sticky Rice

This is such a great recipe because it gives the family a reason to try to use chopsticks. Talk about a fun – and yummy – healthy dinner option!

18. Instant Pot Spaghetti

Get your Lady and the Tramp spaghetti scene on with this yummy meal! Cooking Classy found a way to take spaghetti and turn it into one of our favorite healthy family Instant Pot recipes.

19. Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This recipe from Well Plated has all of the warming, heart-throbbing qualities of a typical butter chicken recipe. But, this version is so much healthier. She even gives you the option to use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for those who are dairy-free! The whole family will love this flavorful Instant Pot meal.

20. Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili with Summer Vegetables

She Likes Food is the recipe developer behind one of my favorite delicious and healthy family Instant Pot recipes. This Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili with Summer Vegetables is enjoyable to a wide range of people because it’s:

Dairy-free

Gluten-free

Vegetarian

Vegan

It’s great for all members of the family regardless of your diet!

21. Instant Pot Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Sauce

I’m ending this list of 21 Healthy Family Instant Pot Recipes with the ultimate summer side dish: our SkinnyMs Instant Pot Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Sauce. Would a summer dinner really be complete without corn on the cob? In my family, the answer is “no!” This healthy and easy version really completes a summertime meal.

This list may be over, but your Instant Pot journey is just beginning! With these healthy family Instant Pot recipes, you now have the opportunity to spread the love and deliciousness in a quick-and-easy way. Your family is sure to thank you for it.

For more amazing recipes, check out our Facebook page, and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.

The post 21 Healthy Family Instant Pot Recipes appeared first on Skinny Ms..

source https://skinnyms.com/healthy-family-instant-pot-recipes/ source https://skinnymscom.blogspot.com/2018/08/21-healthy-family-instant-pot-recipes.html

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easyfoodnetwork · 4 years ago

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Photo: ClassicStock/Getty Images All the grills and grilling accessories a grill master could want, from the Strategist At its most basic, grilling is cooking on an open flame, like what our prehistoric ancestors used to do, but if you’re not the kind of person who takes pleasure in lighting charcoal on fire and then cooking big slabs of meat on it, you might be struggling to find the best grilling gifts for someone who does. (Though even self-described grill enthusiasts sometimes need help finding an actually useful but still unique grilling gift.) So to make it easy, we rounded up 21 of the best grills and grilling accessories that would be excellent gifts for the person in your life who likes to fire it up. For the griller who struggles with lighting charcoal BBQ Dragon Cordless Grill Fan in Silver Jean-Paul Bourgeois of New York City’s Blue Smoke calls the BBQ Dragon, “a fire starter’s best friend. This easy-to-use little gadget will clip onto any grill or smoker and assist you in getting those coals burning fast and evenly.” For the griller who mostly cooks with charcoal Panacea 15343 Ash Bucket With Shovel, Black If anyone plays a little fast and loose with the disposal of coals, or wants a safer way to do it, this steel ash bucket will help prevent accidents. As Hugh Magnum, pitmaster at Mighty Quinn’s Barbecue, explains, “It sometimes takes as long as two days for coals to be completely cold, so you don’t put any coals for at least two days into a trash bag, or else that trash bag will go up in flames.” For the griller who’s terrified of burns Artisan Griller Insulated Cooking Gloves Writer Caitlin M. O’Shaughnessy was introduced to these pit gloves by her mother, who used them to take a full turkey out of the oven. “The cotton-lined gloves are coated with neoprene rubber and designed for true-blue barbecuers who have to handle hot meat on the smoker — that means they’re also waterproof, stainproof, and (most importantly) greaseproof.” They also come recommended by Patrick Martin of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville, who actually prefers these heavy-duty gloves to tongs, especially when working with big cuts of meat, like whole hogs. For the griller who’s looking to streamline Stingray 7 in 1 BBQ Tool Swap out the tool kit for this 7-in-1 grilling tool, recommended by self-described “pretty competent outdoor griller” Steven John, who calls this “the Swiss Army knife of grilling equipment, combining all three tools and even sporting a bottle opener built into its handle.” For the griller who loves steak Sloan Personalized Miniature Steak Branding Iron For Valentine’s Day, writer Leah Bhabha gifted her carnivorous boyfriend a personalized branding iron, purchased on Amazon, and it was an instant hit. “We’ve now emblazoned his initials on everything from ribs to rib eyes, and even busted out the brander for cast-iron cooked burgers (the patty’s initials were covered by the bun, but he liked it so much he branded them anyway).” For the griller who prefers chicken Two-in-One Vertical Chicken Roasting Pan Nick Pihakis of Jim ’N Nicks Bar-B-Q in Birmingham, Alabama, calls this chicken-roasting contraption “one of the best ways to cook a chicken. Not only is upright roasting the optimal position to roast a chicken (fat drips away, heat surrounds the chicken 360 degrees, skin crisps up better), this cooking method allows the steam and vapors to flavor the chicken from the inside cavity out, helping it to stay moist.” For the griller who’s also a hibachi enthusiast Elite Platinum EMG-980B Large Indoor Electric Round Nonstick Grilling Surface If dinner has become a bit of a slog recently, consider setting up a hibachi or Korean barbecue night and using this highly rated indoor grill to do it. Reviewers on Amazon say, true to advertising, it’s truly non-stick (so feel free to go all in on your marinades) and is just as effective at grilling vegetables as a grilling a sturdy ribeye. For the griller who’s not sure what to do with vegetables Sur La Table Stainless Steel Grill Basket Steven John recommends a grill basket, “that can be placed atop any sort of grill (charcoal, gas, or even wood fire) and filled with loose veggies, shrimp, fries, and so on.” It keeps these more delicate ingredients from sticking to the grill’s grates, and, as John notes, “the grate’s cleaner, too.” For the griller who over-checks their meat Thermapen Mk4 Thermometer A meat thermometer is a must-have accessory for a barbecue enthusiast to quickly and easily ensure that meat is fully cooked but not overdone. And for my money, there’s no meat thermometer better than the Thermapen. As I wrote in my review of this gadget, “What makes the Thermapen stand out from other digital kitchen thermometers is its speed and accuracy. According to the manufacturer’s website, this food thermometer can tell the real-time temperature of whatever you’re trying to measure within 0.7 degrees Fahrenheit in under three seconds. That speed makes a noticeable difference when you’re balancing a roasting pan on a hot oven door as you try to take the temperature of whatever’s inside without burning yourself or letting out too much heat,” or dealing with a hot barbecue grill. (And I’m in good company. The Thermapen also comes recommended by Amy and Mike Mills of 17th St. BBQ in Murphysboro, Illinois.) For the griller who’s getting into marinades Boiled Cider Syrup In his roundup of the best condiments you can buy on Amazon, writer Hugh Merwin recommends this boiled cider, which is “kind of pure apple essence,” he explains. However, that sweetness makes it an excellent addition to a barbecue tool kit. “Grillmasters use it at the base of marinades, where it tenderizes meat and its mildly tart and subtle flavor blends in with wood smoke.” For the griller with a small patio Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill Recommended by Leslie Roark Scott of Ubon’s Barbeque in Yazoo City, Mississippi, this large yakitori grill is ideal for those in a “tight space. It’s the perfect size for a couple of steaks, and holds heat like a champ.” For the griller with no patio Weber 10020 Smokey Joe If you’re looking to gift a truly portable grill, for someone who dreams of grilling in Prospect Park, the Weber Smokey Joe is a classic choice. It’s a no-frills option, but it’s got the same durability as the larger kettle-style Weber grill. For the indoor grill enthusiast who hates smoke Philips Indoor Smokeless Grill We discovered this indoor smokeless grill while watching Queer Eye on Netflix, and it’s a solid option for someone who wants to grill but is constrained by the realities of living in an apartment. It uses infrared light to heat the grill and help prevent smoking from dripping fat. For the indoor grill enthusiast who doesn’t want another gadget Lodge Pro-Grid Cast-Iron Grill and Griddle Combo. Reversible 20 x 10.44” Grill/Griddle Pan With Easy-Grip Handles Though it’s more likely to smoke up your kitchen, this cast-iron grill plate from Lodge is “the indoor grill that’s closest in spirit to firing up the charcoal.” (Plus, because it’s essentially a flat piece of cast-iron, it’s much easier to store than a new appliance.) For the griller who likes that smoky taste Z Grills ZPG-7002E As Steven John explains, “a pellet grill is a barbecue grill that uses an automatically fed supply of wood pellets to maintain a preestablished temperature and infuse the cooking foods with smoke aroma and flavor. Your fuel source is also your smoke source.” That means your meat takes longer to cook, but it’s also got more smoky flavor, and in his testing of pellet grills, John liked this one from Z Grills, in part because “you can load up enough wood pellets for hours of smoking with minimal refills required.” For the griller who wants to go full pitmaster Masterbuilt MES 130B Digital Electric Smoker On a long hunt for the “best, not-too-massive city grill,” Lauren Levy discovered that the best barbecue grill is actually this digital smoker from Masterbuilt. That’s according to Myron Mixon, the winningest man in barbecue, who explains, “It’s a digital smoker, so you can actually punch in the temperature you want and it takes you right there from 100 degrees to 275 degrees in just a few minutes.” He continues, “The truth is, everything that someone would want to barbecue you can cook with the Masterbuilt smoker, and it’s much more delicious.” For the griller who likes to cook low and slow Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker The first rule of Grilling 101: Leave the meat be. But when you’re constantly worried about your provisions burning that can be difficult to do. That’s why the grilling enthusiasts of Amazon love the Akorn Jr., a ceramic, kamado-style grill that does an excellent job of maintaining low temperatures. Plus, it’s about a tenth of the price of the popular, kamado-style Big Green Egg grill. For the griller who tries to keep their grill spotless Drillbrush BBQ Accessories I’ve written about the Drillbrush as the best tool to keep my shower clean, but the company makes different brush attachments with different stiffnesses for different purposes, like this barbecue accessories set, which can be used to detail-clean even the most grease-stained grill. For the griller who likes to grill and chill YETI Roadie 20 Cooler “When you’re smoking whole hogs, you can’t go for a beer run, so you need a good cooler that’s going to keep your beer cold for the night,” wisely notes Patrick Martin of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. That’s why he recommends a Yeti cooler to keep by the grill. “I guarantee when you reach for a beer, it’s gonna be good and cold — just like it should be.” For the griller who likes to carve meat John Boos Block BBQBD Reversible Maple Wood Edge Grain BBQ Cutting Board With Juice Groove This sturdy Boos block has a juice groove to catch any liquid that might come out when carving a big hunk of barbecue. (And this gift certainly doesn’t have to be retired once grilling season is over. It’ll also come in handy at Thanksgiving, when it’s time to carve the turkey.) For the griller who likes eating barbecue more than cooking Messermeister Avanta 4-Piece Fine Edge Steak Knife Set Once they cook the meat, they’ll need something to help you eat it, and that’s where these Messermeister steak knives come in. “There’s a curious delight in using these very, very sharp steak knives to bisect a morsel of beef (or pork, or chicken, or whatever flesh you have lying around),” writes Katie Arnold-Ratliff in her ode to these. “The blade slices through the steak with tactile precision — a kind of buttery, slippery ease that makes me say every time my boyfriend and I use these knives, which is a lot, ‘Man I love these knives.’” from Eater - All https://ift.tt/2BbdFk9

http://easyfoodnetwork.blogspot.com/2020/05/from-strategist-21-best-grilling-gifts.html

#EasyFoodNetwork #ComfortFoodRecipes #EasyRecipes #GoodFood #BestComfortFoodRecipes #TastyFoodv

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lenaglittleus · 7 years ago

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Healthy San Francisco Guide

I’ll be honest, a year ago I didn’t think it would be possible to amass a list this long. We had just moved to San Francisco and everything felt very unfamiliar to me. I couldn’t find my way around, drank many cups of bad coffee and spent most of my time looking down at my phone to see where google maps was taking me. But I was determined to figure it out. Everyone kept telling me San Francisco was small and I would find my way around in no time, but I can truly say that I didn’t believe anyone until I sat down today to write this post.

Disclaimer: Thank you to Zappos for sponsoring this post. I was compensated for my time, however all opinions are 100% my own. It was so fun getting to explore my own city and finally share this Healthy San Francisco Guide with you!

San Francisco is in fact very small. It’s less than a million people and only 7 x 7 miles across in each direction. Coming from a city of 8 million that spans 3x the size of San Francisco, Toronto feels insane by comparison. But the good news is that if you’re new here or visiting, it is far easier to explore than most people realize.

When we first moved here, I walked A LOT. I still walk a lot and even though I’ve found myself caught walking up some crazy hills, walking has allowed me to find my way around my new home and in the process put together this Healthy San Francisco Guide for you.

San Francisco may be small, but it’s mighty. Its weather is extreme, its hills a challenge and its tech moving at a pace that even this blogger can’t keep up with, but I can safely say that it is my favorite city in the entire world and I have zero regrets moving here.

GETTING AROUND

It is super important that you be prepared before coming to SF (never San Fran – read here to learn why!). The first piece of advice? Bring layers. San Francisco can swing from 50-80+ in a day. Though it tends to hang around a cool 65 degrees F throughout the year, anything is possible so bring pants, sweaters and a light jacket.

My second piece of advice? Wear comfortable shoes. As I said, exploring by foot is one of the best ways to get to know a city. Though Lyft/Uber and public transit is available, I find I really get a sense of a city by walking, but don’t fool yourself by thinking those cute sandals will cut it. That’s why I’m super excited to be teaming up with Zappos and Merrell to bring you this Healthy San Francisco Guide. There is nothing that I love more than athletic-wear companies who move into the athleisure space. It just means that not only are their shoes cute, but they’re also durable and comfortable. Merrells are my go-to hiking boot, so naturally I loved their everyday line of shoes for any adventure. I ordered mine off Zappos, which offers free shipping and returns and my shoes were on my doorstep within 2 days. Seriously, fastest.shipping.ever!

I’ve also gotten a bajillion questions from you guys about them on Instagram. I honestly can’t recommend them enough for navigating your way around San Francisco. Side note – Merrells fit true to size! I always like knowing this stuff before ordering and I went for my usual 8.5 and they fit perfectly.

1.Merrell Around Town Mid Lace | 2.Merrell Around Town Moc | 3. Merrell Chateau Mid-Pull Waterproof

Back to the guide! I’ve broken it down in two ways, by activity and by neighborhood. You guys asked for both in the THM Tribe so that’s what I did. I covered a lot of ground in the city so they’re should be a place in almost every neighborhood, with the exception of some that I haven’t explored a whole lot of (namely: North Beach, Nob Hill, SoMa and Dogpatch). I hope this guide can be helpful to those of you who are visiting San Francisco or live here and are looking to explore more of their own city. Enjoy!

HEALTHY BITES

Because we all need to know where to find the nearest avocado toast…

Jane on Fillmore –I’ve confessed my love for this place many many times. Their menu is extensive with everything from avocado toast, to salads to smoothies and it’s a great spot to have a meeting or bunk up and get some work done. (Lower Pacific Heights)

Seed and Salt – Admittedly excessively pricey but the turmeric lattes sucker me in everytime! I also love their toasts, chocolate chip cookies and pre-made salads. (Marina)

Blue Barn Gourmet – Can’t go wrong with a salad the size of your head! Their salads are enormous and even better is their large menu selection. If you just need some vegetables, Blue Barn is your place. (Marina/Russian Hill – couple locations)

Al’s Place –If I could eat at Al’s Place everyday I would. But I’d be broke. This vegetable-forward, upscale menu should be your splurge night or date night whenever you get the chance. Get the little butter lettuces and the fermented french fries! (Mission)

RT Rotisserie – this is a relatively new place (it’s the takeout service of their fancier restaurant, Rich Table) but the chicken salad here is amazing. (Hayes Valley)

Souvla – Okay, I’ll be honest and tell you that I like RT Rotisserie better than Souvla, but just about everyone disagrees with me. They now have a couple locations in the city, but get the chicken salad or sweet potato veggie salad. C recommends the lamb gyro (several locations)

NoPa/Nopalito – NoPa is California cuisine and Nopalito is California-Mexican. Both are tremendous and insanely fresh. Expect a weight but if you can get a reservation at NoPa, GO! (NoPa + Inner Sunset)

Zuni Cafe – get their famous chicken salad and find at least 5 people to help you eat it! It’s huge but totally worth it. (Hayes Valley)

Media Noche – a delicious latin spot in the mission serving up interesting and filling salads and sandwiches. (Mission)

Plow – the best brunch spot! Seriously. I still dream about their eggs and sourdough and just all around V San Francisco vibes. Prepare to wait! (Dogpatch)

Others: Sweet Green, Urban Remedy, Project Juice, Earth Bar, Nourish Cafe, Bi-Rite, Mixt, Lemonade

SOUL FOOD

Maybe not the healthiest food, but man is it good for your soul…

The Mill – their bread is everything. Particularly “the everything” sourdough loaf. I could eat this like candy. (NoPa)

Marla Bakery – one of our most frequently visited bakeries in the city. Their seeded bagel with the farmer’s cheese and trout gives an east coast bagel and cream cheese a run for its money. (Outer Richmond)

Tartine Bakery – you cannot go to SF and not stop at Tartine. Grab a baked good or their famous bread or sandwiches and head to Dolores Park for the perfect SF afternoon! (Mission)

Devil’s Teeth Bakery-we love this Outer Sunset spot. Be prepared to wait but their breakfast sandwiches are truly out of this world. (Outer Sunset)

Arizmendi Bakery – yes we’ve eaten at our fair share of bakeries in the city! Arizmendi is a favorite, but especially their selection of vegan and gluten-free goods but also their sourdough pizza dough, which I buy in bulk and freeze to use for pizza day. (Inner Sunset + Mission)

Smitten Ice Cream – my personal favorite ice cream in SF. They do single-batch servings and the cookie dough is perfectly mixed with added salty pretzels. It’s divine! (Several locations in the city)

4505 Meats – We love this casual outdoor BBQ joint. The meats are all done perfectly but definitely go hungry since you get a lot of food! (NoPa)

Outerlands – It’s hard to say if this spot falls under healthy food or soul food because there’s a little bit of both. There is always a wait on weekends but it’s a total crowd pleaser and perfect distance from the beach. (Outer Sunset)

El Techo – a rooftop bar in the Mission with amazing views of the city. The margaritas are strong and amazing! (Mission)

Fiorella – be still my pizza-loving heart! Out of this world pizza’s and delicious weekend brunch. Go here – and then hike it off at Land’s End! (Outer Richmond)

Horsefeather Bar – a bar with amazing cocktails in NoPa. Perfect nightcap to an awesome day in the city or a fun place to meet-up with friends. (NoPa)

Burma Superstar/B Star/Burma Love – If you can get into the original Burma Superstar, GO but if not their sister restaurants come in a close second. Don’t miss out on the tea leaf salad, which is truly a party in your mouth! (Inner Richmond/SoMa)

Wearing the Merrell Chateau Mid-Pull Waterproof

COFFEE + MATCHA

The most important meal of the day…

Wrecking Ball Coffee – tiny coffee shop in the Marina that is probably best known for its pineapple wallpaper. It always helps when the coffee tastes as great as the Insta picture looks. (Marina)

Reveille Coffee – GREAT coffee and cool atmosphere. Their food is very good as well and a great place to hunker down and get some work done (Castro, North Beach + Mission Bay)

Jane on Fillmore – Always a good take on matcha or a solid almond milk latte. I’m usually there for the food but I totally support their libations as well! (Lower Pacific Heights)

Hollow Cafe – I have to thank my friend Lara for introducing me to this place. They hands-down make the best matcha latte in the city. There is simply no comparison! (Inner Sunset)

The Richfield – a close second, I love the matcha latte here but their coffee is pretty solid too. (Inner Richmond)

Blue Bottle Coffee – a San Francisco staple. It’s very good coffee and has built a reputation for a reason. I wouldn’t say I flock here frequently but I definitely stop by if I see one in the neighborhood (throughout the city)

Wearing the Merrell Around Town Moc (in Turbulence)

NOT TO MISS VIEWS

Take it all in with these epic views of the city…

Baker Beach – It really doesn’t get more San Francisco than this. As I’m sure you’ve seen in the millions of pictures we’ve taken there, we LOVE Baker Beach. It offers unreal views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and on sunny days can be a nice wind-free protection at the beach. (Inner Richmond)

Corona Heights – An easily accessible urban hike and 360 views of the city. No one has visited Corona Heights and not loved it! (Corona Heights/Upper Castro)

Twin Peaks –I’ll be honest, the last time I was here was kind of traumatic as our car was broken into and my bag was stolen, but prior to this, the views were absolutely stunning. Don’t forget to take in the houses on your way up to the top! They’re super cool (Twin Peaks)

Dolores Park – Epic views meets human zoo, an afternoon in Dolores Park gives you the true San Francisco experience. (Mission)

Bernal Heights – I love this westward facing view of the city. It’s a bit of a hike, but worth it. Follow it up with some shopping down on the main strip for the full Bernal experience. (Bernal Heights)

Alamo Square – I love hanging out in Alamo Square (though admittedly don’t do it nearly enough!). This is where the famous Painted Ladies/Full House houses are located and after being under construction for years it finally reopened in the Spring. A really nice alternative to Dolores Park that is slightly quieter and less trafficked. (Alamo Square)

Ocean Beach – One of our favorite activities is to have a bonfire on Ocean Beach and watch the sunset. There is no better sunset than one on Ocean Beach. (Outer Richmond + Outer Sunset)

Marriott Marquis Rooftop View Lounge – a non-traditional suggestion, but I highly recommend going up to the top floor of the Marriott Marquis off Union Square for a drink and to soak in the views. (Union Square)

Wearing the Merrell Around Town Mid Lace (In Brown Sugar)

HIKES

San Francisco is one of those unique places where you can actually hike without ever leaving city limits! Of course, there are thousands of hikes outside the city, but if you don’t want to or cannot get out here are some hikes you can do without ever having to leave the city.

Lands End – Probably our favorite trail in the city. It’s always a crowd pleaser because of its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. It can be busy so prepare for tourists but nonetheless it’s a beautiful hike. (Outer Richmond)

Mt Sutro Forest – this is like Fern’s Gully in the middle of San Francisco! It’s a steep climb to get up there, but once there it’s like being in another world full of redwoods and eucalyptus trees. (Inner Sunset/Forest Knolls)

Golden Gate Park – it’s 20% bigger than NYC’s Central Park, which allows for hours of exploring. Go on a run, a walk or just take in the views from pretty much every corner of the park! (spans Inner and Outer Richmond and Sunset)

The Presidio– there are tons of hiking trails throughout the Presidio some of which make you forget you’re still in the city. There are all kinds of trails throughout so do a little research and pick one that suits your needs. (Presidio)

Bernal Heights Park – Hike up to the top of Bernal Heights and take in the views. Not a super long hike, but a nice active uphill with a beautiful westward view of the city. (Bernal Heights)

Fort Funston – this is literally a dog’s version of heaven. Totally dog-friendly, this stretch of beach (I’m calling it a hike but it’s more of a long beach walk) offers endless fun and exploring for dogs and dog-watching for crazy dog people like me. (Lake Merced)

WORKOUTS

For when you just need to sweat it out…

BodyRok – Probably my favorite workout in SF when it comes to pilates reformer. I love this challenging piece of equipment and when I’m really looking to feel strong I visit BodyRok (Marina and Mission)

Soulcycle – Sometimes you just gotta sweat it out on the bike and while I’m certainly not a dedicated soulcycler, I do love a fun, music-oriented spin every now and then. (throughout the city)

The Pad Yoga – Probably my favorite yoga studio in SF. The vibes here are just amazing and every class I’ve done here is so soul soothing and strength-inducing. I just love it (Marina).

Love Story Yoga – wonderful yoga class and absolutely beautiful location. Very insta-worthy if you know what I mean! (Mission)

Core40 – My back-up reformer class if I can’t get in to BodyRok or Soulcycle. Not my go-to but a great workout none-the-less. (throughout the city)

Yoga Tree – I call it the “Starbucks” of yoga. It’s always consistent and good. Not the most amazing yoga class, but you are guaranteed to leave feeling better. I also love that it isn’t stuffy at all like some studios in SF. (throughout the city but I like the one in the Inner Richmond)

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

I’ll be honest, I don’t do a ton of shopping but if I’m opening up my wallet it’s likely for one of these stores…

Credo Beauty – Oh how my poor wallet has suffered because of Credo. If you’ve ever wondered where I buy my green beauty products, it’s always from Credo Beauty. (Lower Pacific Heights)

Saje Wellness – I think you all know my obsession with Saje at this point. Them opening up a store in San Francisco was basically my highlight of 2017. (Lower Pacific Heights)

Marmalade – I do 90% of my clothing shopping online but I still love this little store in the Marina with “boho-chic” clothing. (Marina)

Paxton Gate – it’s a little strange that a taxidermy store made the list, but I swear I’m not going for the stuffed animals. They have awesome books, home trinkets, crystals and plants that make serious #goals for your home. (Mission)

Ferry Building at the Embarcadero – I love the Ferry Building. I know it’s so touristy, but I honestly just really love the experience (esp on Wednesdays and Saturdays when they have the Farmer’s Markets). Stop at Heath Ceramics for beautiful pottery and Cowgirl Creamery for the best.cheese.ever! (Embarcadero).

Succulence – One of my favorite plant stores in the city. It’s also a deep dark hole to all things succulents (duh), crystals and random chachkis for your home. Beware…(Bernal Heights)

Ritual Skincare – okay not really a store, but if you’re in town or live here you MUST go see my girl Katie at Ritual for the best facial of your life. Her products are all 100% natural and she is a true saint when it comes to skincare. She’s also my unofficial therapist. Seriously – go see Katie and thank me later. (Hayes Valley)

I think that’s it for now! I want this list to be ever-evolving so I’ll be adding in more places as I experience more of the city. And now when you guys send me 10 messages a day about where to go in San Francisco, I can just send you this

*Images courtesy of Rae Surbaugh (follow her on Instagram) and Bettina Bogar

Where are you most excited to check out? SF locals – did I miss anywhere?

The post Healthy San Francisco Guide appeared first on The Healthy Maven.

from News About Health https://www.thehealthymaven.com/2017/10/healthy-san-francisco-guide.html

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stylesdaddario-blog · 7 years ago

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What Is The Cost Of Medifast?

Sorry I was unable to publish after Week 10 so I am doing Week 10 and 11 together. An Example Of A Nutrisystem Menu: Day Quantity One: The basics of this weight loss program require so that you can eat three meals plus a snack and dessert. The Fertility Diet impressed specialists, receiving reasonable-to-high scores throughout the board. Medifast is a meal alternative plan that makes use of shakes, bars, soups and other objects. I have been in a position to preserve the load off by using Nutrisystem's upkeep program. Nutrisystem Merchandise For Males: I am undecided why, however the men's packages do not seem to enjoy as a lot promoting as the women's. This doesn't embody the price of meal additions, gymnasium memberships, new clothes or dietary dietary supplements. NutriSystem food regimen meals consist primarily of shelf-secure packaged meals (don't want refrigeration) that you just warmth up in the microwave or dry mixes that you just combine with boiling water. We all the time counsel looking for advice from a doctor earlier than beginning Nutrisystem plans, particularly in case you have a medical situation of any form. The DASH eating regimen has ranked as the #1 General Weight loss program by US News & World Report for five years in a row and is really useful by the USDA, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the American Heart Affiliation (AHA). In comparison with different kinds of weight loss program the place it's important to search for the substances and prepare your personal meals, Nutrisystem merely gives you pre-packaged ones. This was the first place that shed some mild on the whole thing about Nutrisystem and the best way its food regimen plans work for me. Thank you. Whilst making meals from scratch when on a restricted food plan is time consuming and infrequently a high-effort endeavour, the Nutrisystem plan is quick to prepare, and color-coded for convenience. I made a decision to give in and buy via Whereas I used to be online ordering I chatted with a consultant about my plan choices and fee issues. Nutrisystem may be relatively costly for the typical consumer since it prices over $300 per month.

I placed my order for NutriSystem merchandise using the A La Carte choice on their web site, and chose the 1 week possibility for $79.ninety nine plus transport, for a grand whole of $90.ninety nine. I am a picky eater, and wanted extra control over my meal choices. Auto-delivery conveniently ships your Nutrisystem foods straight to the doorstep, so you never run out. Pregnant ladies desirous to shed some pounds or keep a wholesome weight should talk to their doctor, who will provide a meal plan based mostly upon their calorific and nutritional wants. Nutrisystem packages meals into portions so you realize precisely how a lot it's best to have at every snack and meal. The plan is designed to be tremendous handy whereas educating you the right way to control nutrisystem gluten free your parts of everyday foods. I entered my meals into FitDay every day, simply out of curiosity, and included the NutriSystem foods as well as the milk and produce I added. On this 2017 Nutrisystem critiques article I guide you honestly by way of the issues it is advisable to learn about this system with facts. Nutrisystem Coupons, Discounts, And Auto Supply: The company varies it is promotions all year long. There is a separate e-book for each major blood sort and you may make it work with Nutrisystem as long as you customize your meals to keep away from the foods the ebook says to keep away from. With its emphasis on fruit and veggies, olive oil, fish and different wholesome fare, the Mediterranean weight loss program is eminently wise. The best function about Nutrisystem can be that it isn't a crash eating regimen the place one eats just meals gadgets and does unusual items that are not peculiar. This is where the NutriSystem weight loss program is available in. For previous diets we had to drive ourselves to immediately change and get used to the really useful food regimen, while the NutriSystem weight-reduction plan would truly work itself around our present meal plan. It keeps me on my plan, it gives me one thing apart from the Nutrisystem meals, and it also jogs my memory that I am worth the good components. Take pleasure in Meatballs in Marinara Sauce, Rooster Alfredo, Italian Herb Flatbread Pizza, Hearty Beef Stew, and Lasagna with Meat Sauce while you choose up this weight loss meal kit. Medifast and Nutrisystem are two such weight loss plan packages, and so they have confirmed monitor information. The plan isn't for pregnant ladies, individuals with chronic kidney disease, or anyone with sure allergic reactions or food plan wants. Nutrisystem provides a helpful shopping record to help you discover the best foods at the grocery store. To grasp the affect of taking part in a food delivery weight-reduction plan, work out your present each day food cost. I lastly caved, although my sister instructed me she hated the Nutrisystem eating regimen, and signed up. The food tastes like chemical substances, I was always hungry, it's dry and tasteless and cardboard would in all probability taste better! Among the most frequent questions that I receive about nutrisystem should do with the food choices. I do know - it is lots easier for guys to drop some pounds - however I believe for those who actually follow this system you can be high quality. There are three main issues it's essential do to make NutriSystem a sustainable food regimen You have to immediately incorporate a nutrient dense weight loss program, it is advisable grasp portion size and portion management , and you'll want to develop a strong help network that extends beyond your instant family and friends. The Medifast shakes are the mainstay of the program and, luckily, I discovered all the shakes to be fairly good as nicely, however they do are inclined to have a faint soy aftertaste. However, in an effort to provide you with an thought of the categories and quality of meals obtainable, I will listing three pattern nutrisystem menus under. There are a number of guides and ideas that include the initial shipment and since I selected the customized meal plan I used to be allowed to pick out some frozen meal and snack choices. The most popular food regimen choice for males is the great outdated low-carb/high-protein Atkins strategy. The auto-delivery program is nice for people who desire a low-effort food regimen program, however it is simple to overlook to cancel this system when it is not wanted. This is not a extremely restrictive weight-reduction plan so you don't want a prescription and medical doctors aren't the center man. The only time I've ever been ready to do that was when I decided to get on the Nutrisystem weight-reduction plan. One survey involving 9,600 Nutrisystem dieters confirmed that about 80% of them stated that their hunger was happy. Many people are pleasantly shocked to seek out that the steadiness isn't as nice as they thought it will be. Most customers work it out to find that this system actually prices lower than what they normally spend on the food that made them achieve weight! I read a number of evaluations on another site saying that users felt at all times hungry with the portion sizes, however I now really feel that they most likelye did not take the time or advice of NS to complement their meals with recent greens, veggies, and fruit Thanks again in your great article! In a Nutrisystem weight-loss plan, you should observe the packaged meals and wholesome meals urged in a plan, to reduce weight. The weight-reduction plan plan takes care of the majority of grocery shopping, cooking and portioning by delivering meals and snacks that are calorie-managed and pre-prepared.

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sj2themoon · 8 years ago

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Vegan Mac n’ Cheeze + Queso Recipe: Bring a medium- large pot 1/2 filled with water to a boil Set to medium low and add 1 1/2 cups chopped red or yellow potatoes 1 c chopped carrots 3/4 c chopped onion (Chopping is optional but will cook faster) Cook until potatoes are tender In a blender, while veggies cook, add 3 TBS nutritional yeast (more to taste once combined if you like) 1 TBS miso 1/2 c cashews (soaked overnight if no high- speed blender) 3 TBS lemon juice 1 garlic clove or 1 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp chili powder or paprika 1 tsp salt(+more to taste) Optional- 1 tsp turmeric 1/4 tsp mustard powder Pinch of cayenne Once veggies are cooked, add 1/4 c of the broth water to your blender, set aside another 1/4 c in case you like your cheeze a bit runnier. Strain the veggies and add them to the blender. Blend until creamy deliciousness!!! (You may need to stir a few times to get it going depending on what kind of blender you have) I have recently discovered this cheeze pairs best with zoodles! Or zucchini noodles. But can be added with any noodle of your desire. For zucchini noodles use a vegetable spiralizer, a julienne peeler or a potato peeler for fastest zoodles. Peeling the skin off is optional. And finally to make this cheeze into queso, blend in 1-2 TBS of your favorite hot sauce or salsa For chunky queso add into your used pot 1 small-medium minced spicy pepper like jalapeño 1 small-medium tomato diced 2-4 TBS green Chiles or diced bell pepper Dash of pepper Simmer until it sizzles, then add your cheeze. Mix it all up and BAM! Best. Queso. Ever. How and why the best you ask? It is free from preservatives, dairy, guilt, and cruelty AND is loaded with good for you veggies and medicinal spices! It is creamy, cheezy, spicy, tangy goodness. Dip with chips, bake a sheet of tortilla chips with beans, onions, tomato, jalapeños, corn, and any nacho toppings you love to a crisp and add the queso on top for rockin’ nachos, or add to zoodles for mac n queso, pour on your tacos, taco salad, steamed broccoli, YOU NAME IT. This queso does it all.

Vegan Lifestyle- Q&A with Taylor

Me: How long have you been vegan now Taylor?

Taylor: I decided to dive into this lifestyle September 2015, so almost a year and a half now. It seems almost impossible that it has been that small amount of time because it feels as if I have been this way my whole life. It aligns so perfectly! And after I shifted, it feels as if I’ve been rebirthed. So, it honestly feels like it’s been forever! It’s quite an interesting phenomenon.

Me: What is veganism? (What does it entail?)

Taylor: Veganism to me put simply, is the consumption of no animal products. This includes no eating it, purchasing of it in retail, or buying anything that consists of animal products at all. Also cruelty-free, not tested on animals etc. But it’s so much more than that. Much much more. Go deeper and it’s the integration of a lifestyle with a heightened awareness and new perspectives. It often allows for many more realizations, perceptions on reality and life changes into health and wellness for all aspects of life. Including mental, physical, emotional and spiritual, that is if you choose and if that’s your desired journey. Basically, it can open up many beautiful doors for you. On this note, I would like to add that I typically like to call this diet “Plant-based” for several reasons. Some of them will be answered in further questions.

Me: What first inspired you to make the plunge and become vegan?

Taylor: My story may be a little unique compared to an average story. I had been mostly a vegetarian for 9 years, and towards the tail end of that was what a dear friend of mine called “opportunitarian” where you don’t buy meat, but if it’s offered you might it eat, or if it’s about to be wasted then you definitely eat it. So along my journey of life, I suddenly was feeling unfulfilled. I had examined my career, traveled a lot, and still something was off. I began to try and self-reflect for answers on what I needed in my life. After months of coming up short, quitting my job, becoming lactose intolerant (or more so, becoming aware of my intolerance) I would spend my days sipping tea and reading books in my tiny house, having the whole day to do what I enjoy, only to have found myself miserable. So much so, I just cried out! Literally screaming out crying one evening to anyone who could hear me, even if it was just myself. Asking what in the flippin flyin jahobees should I do? Humor put aside, it was with much pain, confusion and desperation. And then with complete surrender, two words came to my mind and my heart. They were “Go vegan, Go vegan go vegan.” Over and over. It was then that I began my deepest research and discovery on the topic with many sub-topics that were brought to my attention. Where as a lot of people really discover things that motivate them to go vegan, and research before committing. For me, it was the other way around.

Me: Compared to your initial decision to become vegan, would you say there is a bigger/deeper reason why you are vegan now?

Taylor: Yes!!! I would say it was always as deep as the great blue sea, but now I see why much more clearly. At first, it was mental and emotional, then environmental, then physical and medicinal and now spiritual. It has allowed me to cleanse my body and see my life with clarity, to hear clearly my inner guidance, to feel a deep sense of connection with all of existence, and to better understand my true self at the core. I could honestly go on forever.

Me: What is your personal motivation for sticking to the vegan diet?

Taylor: This is another unique question pertaining to me because I don’t need motivation for the vegan diet, that is, the food choice is part of this lifestyle. It is such a part of me now. It is so natural. Like I said before, it is as if I have been reborn and this has been my way of life forever. Now, this did not come without trials and errors. Before the initial decision to shift to a plant-based diet, I definitely used to let the food addiction take over me. With cheese of course! Becoming utterly aware of my lactose intolerance, due to cutting out most other harmful food, after a few times of getting sick, on every level (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual) the time came for enough is enough. Just like if you drink too much alcohol and get blacked out every time, when is enough enough? You emotionally binge eat and feel horrible afterward multiple times a week. You lose yourself on social media instead of exercising or spending time with loved ones. You continue telling yourself hateful thoughts about yourself. Or an extreme example, addicted to a harsh drug. At some point, you have to make a choice and just decide to be done, and take the baby steps to get there. It’s the same for any addiction, any habit. When will you choose to change your life? When will you choose to become truly happy and conquer your unfavorable habits by replacing them with new ones that nourish every part of your being?

Me: What are the health benefits of being vegan?

Taylor: There are SO many! And that is if you do it right! You see, Oreos are vegan. But we cannot live healthy, thriving lives by eating processed food, just because it doesn’t contain animal products. For starters, the biology and chemistry of plant foods is much more conducive to the human body than that of heavy animal products. Plants have the purest and most simple vitamins, minerals and amino acids that match to our bodies chemistry, DNA, and biology. Therefore, you get a much cleaner functioning body, more energy, more flexibility, more mental clarity, and are very less likely to get cancer. Whole food, plant-based diets have helped cure IBS, type 2 diabetes and more. Another health benefit is disease prevention, such as arthritis, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and cardiovascular disease, which is the number one cause of death in America, plus many more. Some more benefits are weight loss, healthy skin, almost no chance of a stroke or heart attack, having a longer life and helping or obliterating allergies. Dairy and meat have so many hormones and extra heavy compounds. I mean, milk from a cow is to make a calf grow around 400 lbs in 7 months for Pete’s sake! That’s 1400 pounds in 2 years, 700 pounds by one-year-old, and that’s small. That’s to say if a calf is drinking it’s own mother’s milk, which guess what, they don’t! Humans drink cow mother milk and baby cows get fed formula. Then, they get shipped off to be slaughtered for veal (baby cow meat), raised and fattened up for meat, or to become a dairy cow slave then butchered when she’s not qualified anymore. Oops sorry, truth tangent.

Anyway, more benefits. There are so many more! As for me and mental/emotional health, I noticed a huge drop in depression, mood swings, irritability, anger, anxiety, fear and much more. I felt more energized, more at peace, connected to all of life. I felt so fulfilled knowing I was aligning with my heart’s truest desires. It has also been found by dozens of doctors that people on healthy plant-based diets have far better blood results than those on the typical American Standard Diet. It’s funny how animal product consumers worry about vegan’s nutrients and protein when in fact THEY are most likely not getting enough nutrients, and FAR too much protein themselves, which leads to clogged arteries, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and much more. This greater awareness gives the space to shift you into a holistic place that then naturally encourages you to stop eating processed foods, refined sugar, and just allows you to become more aware of your health and the health of the planet. Thus more health benefits!

Me: What are the environmental benefits?

Taylor: Wow! Again, so many! To put an easy number on it, the average of resources you’re saving per day with a plant based diet is 1100 gallons of water, 45 pounds of grain, 30 Sq ft of forest, and 10 lbs of c02. There’s also the fact that 40% of the land on earth is used for agriculture. A huge part of that is to grow crops to feed to the animals that we are going to eat. We could feed near 800 million people with the crops we grow for animals in less than a year. And if those crops were exported, it would give the US trade balance an estimated boost of near 80 billion dollars.

Me: Overall do you feel like you have developed self-mastery being able to stick to a diet that is typically known as being a hard one to follow? -There must be a sense of pride knowing that you have such self-control over your body.

Taylor: Not pride as much as humility and humbleness. This has been such a blessing for me. It has opened up the gateway to getting to know my true self and to begin to learn to fall in love with every part of me, even the shadows… especially the shadows! Opening up to compassion for all parts of life has opened me up to compassion for myself and practicing what self-love means for me. I’m still on my journey of self-mastery, as I think I always will forever be! But as far as what I put into my body, what products I buy, what companies I support, how I spend my time and my energy, and how I continue to practice self-love and self-care, which translates to love for all of life and vise versa, yes. I have integrated the level of awareness and knowledge for the planet, for all aspects of my body, my health, for the animals, and for humanity, to a level that it just makes sense. It all clicks. It’s absolutely a part of me and there’s no going back.

Me: I know how passionate you are about veganism, what is one thing you wish everyone would know?

Taylor: I wish everyone would know it’s not hard! If you eat lots of raw fruits and vegetables, which you definitely SHOULD BE, then it’s easy peasy! Depending on how simple or not you like to be in the kitchen, this could mean fewer dishes, less prep time, etc. This also means more visually beautiful, vibrant, colorful foods on your plate! Physically, mentally and emotionally good for you and your body from the inside out, making you look and feel more beautiful and vibrant!

Me: Does it get easier as you go? What was the hardest part?

Taylor: It definitely does! Just like any old habit, psychology research tells us that it takes about 14-21 days to reprogram our mind and bodies. You’re letting go of old deeply ingrained ways and replacing them with new ones. This can be quite difficult, depending on where you stand in line with yourself and with your life, as well as your other programming that has brought you to your current thought patterns, beliefs, and perceptions. However, getting through that difficulty will cause a ripple effect for transformation in all dimensions of your life. Once you cleanse away the impurities and the things you crave due to chemicals being released in the brain(for example the chemical that binds cheese has a very similar addictive effect on the brain as heroin)and you detox from these things, your taste buds change and you actually begin to crave natural whole foods and the things your body needs. You may find a miraculous sense of freedom from not being unconsciously controlled by unhealthy food choices and other unhealthy life choices.

The hardest part of this journey for me was probably the opposition I faced at the beginning and the extreme passion I had to want to share this with everyone. Not everyone is ready to hear these things, and I learned that the hard way. But if you face that, it also gets easier fast. You just have to lead by example from a place of love and understanding. This mindset is infectious on conscious and subconscious levels. I learned is it’s just simply better for everyone that way. No one feels pressured, you’re not pushing anyone away, and you’re not getting constantly hurt or shot down. It’s a win-win.

Me: Isn’t it expensive? How do you manage to eat this way on a strict budget?

Taylor: Well first off, let me ask you, how much does your health and happiness cost? And no way! It’s not expensive. Again, if you’re doing it right. If you’re buying fresh produce and not eating it, therefore letting it go bad and having to throw it out, then yes, you will waste money and it can then add up to be expensive. In fact, on average, eating a whole food plant-based diet can cut your grocery bill in half, depending on how you shop. But, it most certainly will not be more expensive than an animal foods diet. The cost for rich plant-based proteins such as beans and legumes is about 1.4 cents per gram of protein, whereas eggs are 2.5 cents per gram of protein. Beef 4.5. And that’s the internal cost! There’s also many external costs that you don’t see leave your wallet in that moment you’re checking out at the grocery store. This includes the cost of health care, doctor’s visits, and hospital bills! Eating a highly plant-based whole foods diet is preventive medicine. As Hippocrates said, “Let thy food be thy medicine, and thy medicine be thy food.”

Personally, I am living a life with very minimal work right now. I manage this minimal budget by volunteering on a farm once a week in exchange for way more produce than I can eat. I receive mostly vegetables, but for fruit, nuts, seeds and other plant foods, I buy what’s on sale and discounted at a wholesale market up the road. Buying these foods as well as beans, rice and legumes from bulk bins, adds up in savings. Buying locally and seasonally is cheaper, as well as buying in bulk for a discount from your local farmer or grocer. Also, deciding what products feel right to buy, not organic or organic can help the budget. I like to reuse my bags and containers, as well as use reusable cloth grocery bags, which also saves me money in the long run.

Me: Do you consider veganism to be the right path for everyone? For ex. I was instructed by a doctor to eat more red meat to help my thyroid. What would you do in this situation?

Taylor: I would say the journey to full health IS for everyone. Everyone deserves to thrive and be happy. But everyone’s path is going to look different. Dietary changes and nutrition will/can be a huge catalyst for major transformations and other changes in your life. There are also other variables to be incorporated into having a fully happy, healthy, thriving life. For example, to decide to make a change in your life for the better and stick with it is to honor and love yourself, to have courage and support. These can also come in any linear order, encouraging the next to evolve like a domino effect depending on the person. For me, it was changing my job, nutrition, then friends, then hobbies. This will look different for everybody.

As for the direct question is a plant based whole foods diet for everyone? My answer is yes! Plant based, which means a diet highly based in plant foods, is for everyone (with current extreme exceptions of course) But this can look so different for a variety of people. For example, right now my body wants super clean raw foods, with the occasional lightly cooked foods, and even more occasional cooked starches, and if any oil, then coconut. No gluten, no animal products, no beans, and low in fats unless highly physically active or on my menstrual cycle. Whereas my partner, right now his body wants healthy bread, lots of good fats, cooked starches, tons of raw fruits and vegetables, cooked vegetables, the occasional soy product, no animal products but a lot of rich protein. Any suggestions from a health practitioner I would say go within and seek your own answers. Research, or go to other doctors. One doctor only has the information they have ever learned. Some schools and teachings can be biased, or limited. So do your own studying, internally and externally.

Again, that’s what this lifestyle is all about. Opening your eyes, making conscious decisions for yourself, what feels best for YOU. Find what works for you in each moment! Do what feels best in your heart because you are ever changing and constantly evolving, as well as your choices and ways of being. There are so many variables when it comes to living a conscious life. Such as, if one finds they actually need a type of meat or animal food for whatever reason in some part of their life, what’s the best action for that? It would seem easier to just buy meat from a local butcher, but wild meat from your area may actually be better for some people. It’s well worth finding someone you trust that may have hunted or fished humanely, or even raised the animal themselves. You see, when humans ate natural meat, that was naturally occurring because man domesticated farm animals as we know them for food. Yes, this was a part of our progression as humans but, even to that degree, practices were done with much more balance, more understanding of nature, and with much more respect.

To sum it all up…

This all may seem like SO much information, and difficult to live an aware life. It may feel like you just want to run back into the safe closet of what you know, your old habits. I am bearing my truest testimony when I say it’s NOT! It is just an illusion that it seems so difficult! This is due to the myriad of distractions, commercials, fast food, and junk cluttering our minds and lives. It’s completely worth your life to take the extra steps, to do what appears as some extra work, to make decisions that you fully feel good about in each moment. This is absolutely worth your time and energy to align with your heart, to feel deeply and live a life of meaning and compassion, of harmony and understanding. As the ball gets rolling, it becomes natural. Then you remember what it’s like to be human, an animal connected to all of Mother Nature, a very part of nature herself. And for this, it requires balance. Awareness will give you balance. Awareness inside and outside of self will set the path for you to take charge of your life, be empowered, create your happiness and to feel alive! You deserve it, beloveds!

For easy ways to raise your awareness, I would recommend watching some documentaries such as Food Choices, Earthlings, Cowspiracy, Food Matters, Forks over Knives, and other related films that you can find on Netflix.

Thak you Taylor for taking the time to educate and empower us all! I hope this paints a clearer picture and enlightens many. Everyone, take care of your body in the best possible way you know how.

Stay Wild, Moon Child

#becomingbohemian

The post Vegan Mac n’ Cheeze Recipe + Q&A appeared first on sj2themoon.

#sj2themoon #becoming #bohemian #boho

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