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adenei · 3 years ago

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Summer of Jily Week 4

It's week 4 for @efkgirldetective's Summer of Jily challenge! You sure did send me for a loop with this one, but I've managed to keep the one-shots turned multi chap story going!

This week's prompts: Picking Berries and "I know I kissed you before, but I didn't do it right."

Read on AO3

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James didn’t sleep at all that night. He couldn’t stop thinking about the carnival. His thoughts shifted between being mad at Sirius for winning that damn prize and presenting it to Lily��that was his stupid, cheesy plan that his best mate had hijacked—and the Ferris wheel ride.

About saving your letters or waiting for you to ask me out?

How could he have been so thick? And how is it that he keeps royally mucking things up? He’d had the perfect opportunity to kiss Lily right there on the ride, but then it had to move again, and he’d gotten sidetracked at the feeling of flying on a muggle contraption.

Hadn’t he come along with the boys to crash the girls trip so he could spend more time with Lily? He’d devised the perfect opportunity to sweep her off her feet, and he swore to himself he would only ask her out if she made it blatantly obvious that she wanted him to. As much as it killed him, he’d rather not lose her friendship over pressing her one too many times.

But now, she had made it clear that she was waiting for him to make a move, and what does he do instead? Lets her walk away after the sunrise, hits her with a ball by the lake, and then avoids her throughout the entire carnival until their friends force them to share a compartment on that bloody ride.

He’d had the perfect opportunity to kiss her right there, to ask her to be his girlfriend, and what does he do instead? Freezes. James Potter, master of smooth pick-up lines, carefree, easy-going Gryffindor heartthrob (says the Hogwarts gossip circle, not that he pays attention to any of that—why would he when he’s got his heart set on one girl?) freezes.

Well, he didn’t totally freeze. After they’d apparated back to the cabin, he and Lily were the last two in the sitting area before they went to bed. He walked her to the door of the girl’s room and kissed her on the cheek before bidding her goodnight.

It had taken all of his willpower to not pull her into his arms and snog her senseless after her confession earlier that evening. Yet, after seeing her disappointed face before she shut the door to the bedroom, he wished he had. She’d thrown his entire game off, and he needed to fix it before he lost his chance with Lily for good.

Resigning himself to the fact that he was awake to see another sunrise, James dragged himself out of bed and picked up his glasses on the nightstand before stepping around the mattress on the floor where Peter currently snored away. He grabbed the nearest shirt he could find and threw it on before slipping out of the bedroom.

It was lighter out than he was expecting, meaning he’d probably missed the sunrise. The boys preferred to sleep in pitch black, but the spell they cast on the window the night before was fading, allowing the daybreak to sift through and consequently throwing off his sense of time. He started the coffee pot and leaned against the counter while he waited for the pot to brew.

Caffeine would be necessary to stay awake today, or maybe he could sneak a nap in at some point. Hell, maybe he’d be able to convince Lily to join him for said nap. He could think of plenty of things they could get up to whilst they were in bed together. James let his mind wander to thoughts of getting to know her in a more intimate setting. The kind that he’d often wank to when he needed a release.

The rich smell of dark roast wafted through the living area. James forced his thoughts away from images of Lily writhing beneath him as he reached for a mug. He only barely heard the click of a door as he pulled the pot off to pour himself a cup.

“Another early morning?”

James looked up to see Lily standing there, her hair messy from sleep. She ran her fingers through it in an attempt to comb it out. The green of her eyes were barely visible under still somewhat droopy eyelids. Something stirred within him, and despite the fact that he was only seventeen, it was a view he knew he could get used to.

“That would imply I slept. I hope I didn’t wake you.”

“No, but I couldn’t resist the smell of coffee. Why couldn’t you sleep?”

“Peter’s snoring reached new levels last night.”

The lie slipped off his lips with ease, although it wasn’t altogether convincing. A simple Muffliato charm would have allowed him the peace and quiet he needed to fall asleep. Her skeptical look wasn’t lost on him as he absent-mindedly began fixing the cup he’d poured with the amount of milk and sugar Lily preferred. He wasn’t aware he was doing it until he handed it to her.

“Thanks,” she said. “Since when do you know how I take my coffee?”

“Come on, Evans, you don’t think I’ve noticed? Some things stick after eating breakfast with someone over the last year.” James smirked.

He grabbed another mug from the cabinet and poured his own cup without adding anything to it. James blew over the dark brown liquid to help cool it off as he watched Lily take a minuscule sip of her own.

“That’s fair. I still don’t know how you can drink yours black.”

“Some say I’m sweet enough on my own.” The quip was automatic as Lily laughed at his humor.

Merlin, her laugh is infectious. James swore the reason he said half of the stuff he did was so he could hear her laugh.

“Do you want to go for a walk?”

The question came from nowhere, but the early morning was so peaceful that he wanted to experience it with her, preferably hand in hand.

“Sure.”

They left their coffee mugs abandoned on the Formica as they headed to the door and slid on their shoes. Lily grabbed a jacket off the coat rack and zipped it up halfway. James closed the door quietly behind him then led her over to the trail he and the boys explored yesterday. The path wasn’t terribly long, but it ended up in a quiet and secluded area where the lake met pebbled terrain.

“So, was the dolphin a good sleeping partner?” James’s voice cut through the light layer of morning fog.

Lily chuckled. “I don’t know, I let Marly sleep with him instead.”

“Ah, Sirius will be heartbroken if he learns of your betrayal.” His words were meant to be a joke, yet they didn’t come across as lighthearted as he’d hoped.

“Well, good thing you won’t tell him. Right?” Lily’s questioning eyes made James’s heart skip a beat.

“I suppose I can keep your secret, Evans, but it’ll cost you.”

“Oh? And what might that price be, Potter?”

The green of the trees and shrubbery only enhanced the sparkle that glinted in her eyes. James wondered if she was testing him. Shouldn’t she know by now that he never backed down from a challenge?

“Ditch your friends and spend the day with me instead.”

“Like a date?”

“Yes, Evans, like a date.”

“Well, good thing we’re getting an early start. Now we can make the most of the day.”

James grinned at Lily’s acceptance as they continued down the trail.

They were nearly at the clearing by the water when Lily stopped, causing James to turn around. “Is this the path you and the boys were on yesterday afternoon?”

“Yeah, why?”

“Well, when Mary asked if you found anything interesting, you said no.”

“Because there isn’t…”

“That’s not true! Look at the blackberry bushes over there!”

James’s head turned to the direction Lily was pointing at, and sure enough, there were several bushes, low to the ground and full of clumps of blackberries. Lily bent down to pick a few off the branches.

“How do you know they’re blackberries and not nightshade or something?”

“Honestly, Potter, did you not pay attention when Sprout taught that unit on edible plants and where to find them in the wilderness?”

“No? Guess I was a bit distracted.”

“Nightshade grows off the stem in one circle. They look more like blueberries, except they’re shinier and darker. Blackberries have all the little bumps on them like this. Almost like a raspberry, but a different color.”

Lily picked a handful of berries during her explanation and stood when she was finished. James saw her holding them delicately in an effort to stop them staining her hands. Using her forefinger and thumb, she picked one up and held it to James’s mouth.

“Try it.”

James opened his mouth and let her place the berry on his tongue. He locked eyes with her as his lips closed around her fingers. An explosion of flavor bursts on his tongue as he bit down on the fruit. The tartness caused him to squint and pucker his lips slightly. Lily smiled at his reaction as she popped a couple berries in her mouth.

She was right—they tasted way better when picked fresh. He held out his hand for more, and she gave him a couple to munch on as they continued walking through the woods. James’s brain was fixated on the way she fed him as his feet moved him forward. Their hands grazed against each other, and James held on after the third bump. He felt her fingers intertwine with his as their steps aligned on the dirt path. As they inched their way toward the rocky clearing of the lake, a plan formed in his mind, and he knew exactly what he needed to do to match Lily’s brazenness of the night before and kick off their day-long date properly.

“Oh, wow,” she whispered as the trail gave way to the stunning view of the calm water ahead of them. The fog had settled across the still water, preventing them from seeing the other side of the lake.

“Lily—”

“Okay, the berries were one thing, but hiding this view from us? How—” Lily froze mid-sentence as comprehension dawned on her. “Did you just call me Lily?”

“Yeah, I did, but please go on about how we didn’t tell you about this.”

“No, I think I’d rather hear what you have to say instead.”

“You sure? I know how much you love being able to prove us wrong.”

James paused, waiting for Lily’s reaction. He loved riling her up like this. The way he alluded to something but then held it just out of her grasp to ensure that she truly wanted to know what he had to say. Shoving his hands in his pockets, he waited.

“What do you mean, am I sure? Would I have asked you to tell me if I wasn’t?”

He thought about keeping up with the banter, but he was tired of waiting.

“That’s fair. Look, I know I kissed you before—y’know, last night—but I didn’t do it right, and I’d like to make up for that right now if you’ll let me.”

There was a sharp intake of air, and if James could pat himself on the back for catching Lily off-guard, he would. But she regained her composure before shooting a challenging look in his direction.

“Since when does James Potter ask permission before kissing a girl? I thought he—how did Sirius put it? Sets his eyes on what he wants and goes for it?”

James chuckled and cringed at the same time, remembering how Sirius explained James’s intentions during fifth year.

“Well, as true as that may be, I still try to be a gentleman about it. I’d never make an unwanted advance if that’s what you’re implying.”

“Interesting, considering I thought I made it clear what I wanted last night.”

Were his eyes playing tricks on him, or did Lily just take a tiny step forward?

“Is that so?”

“It is. And it sounds like you’re stalling.”

“Please, Evans, you’d know when I’d be stalling.”

“What are you waiting for, then?”

The words barely escaped her mouth, James didn’t waste any more time as his hands lifted to cup Lily’s face. He leaned in and captured her lips with his, the tangy taste of the berries still lingering on her mouth. Everything about Lily’s lips were soft and inviting as her hands found a home on his lower back. He felt her mouth open slightly as her teeth grazed his bottom lip, eliciting a small moan from his mouth.

James deepened the kiss as his tongue swiped across her lips. Her hands pushed him closer as her mouth widened, inviting him to explore. A quack in the distance was the only thing that reminded them where they were, as James slowly broke away. She was more beautiful than he remembered, with her lips swollen from his kiss and the dazed look of bliss on her face.

“Well, I’m used to ending the date with a kiss, not starting it,” her words were breathless.

James chuckled at Lily’s words. “Am I to take that as a good or bad thing?”

“Good. Very good.”

“And just imagine, we’ve got the whole day ahead of us now.”

“This is true. Should we head back and get ready for the rest of the day?”

“Sounds brilliant.”

James had no idea what they were going to do for the day, but he planned on making the most of their time spent together. Nothing could go wrong.

#summerofjily #jily #jily fic #james potter #lily evans #james x lily

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beyondthetemples-ooc · 4 years ago

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(disordered eating tw? and Other Such Considerations, tl;dr I think it might be the caffeine that’s making me feel unwell, because I’m mildly sensitive to caffeine, but I will literally fall asleep at my work desk without it...)

I would like... for Three Consecutive Hours.... to Not Regret Eating? Maybe just like, once or twice a day? That’d be nice.

It’s not as bad as it used to be. I suppose I should be ~thankful~ that I can eat at all. The little I’ve been getting down is staying where I put it. I’ve been worse. Way worse.

But it still feels pretty rough, especially in the mornings. Today was so bad, I only ate one of those little cups of applesauce at like 11am at work. I just... keep getting Spikes of Feeling Worse, for an hour or two after I eat, and it’s not a good feeling. It’s preventing me from eating as much as I should. Like, I could eat more, maybe, but Typical Phobia Stuff is preventing me from wanting to.

Put simply, I just feel better if I don’t eat. My stomach does, anyways. (The rest of me, not so much. Hypoglycemia and low blood pressure compound each other and I’m really, really prone to passing out. So like..... I’m playing a balancing act here.)

Could’ve felt worse today, but dinner was still mostly plain white rice. Dad had some candies he was eager to share, so I tried some of those, but just a couple of tiny pieces.

I’m kinda thinking I’ve been going a little too heavy on the caffeine, maybe 2-3 energy drinks a week is Too Much. (They’re relatively tame energy drinks, only 80g of caffeine and 0 to 8g of sugar, the same amount of caffeine in a cup of green tea and the same sugar in a Nature’s Valley granola bar, but they do still have stuff I probably Shouldn’t Be Drinking with how sensitive my system is, artificial sweeteners and preservatives and all..... hhhhh. Natural flavors and other energy-enhancing things like vitamins and amino acids and such, but maybe my system’s telling me to Lay Off Them Anyways. lP )

Maybe I should stick to the caffeine tabs and herbal supps for Not Falling Asleep At My Desk In The Morning, but frankly, the energy drinks just work better. 8P I used to make matcha tea every morning when I worked super early shifts at the pet store, and that worked rather well most of the time, but I don’t want to carry a heavy mug on top of a liter of water, a book, my snow boots, and everything else I carry to and from work...

I suppose I could take a mug to work and just. Leave it there. Keep the matcha at my desk and make my cups in the morning after I get to work...

And before anyone comes to me harping about sleep schedules, my circadian rhythm is naturally set really far back. Like I actually have the Delayed Circadian Disorder thing. I sleep best from 3am until noon. I can force myself to sleep from 9:30 until 7:30 using a combination of melatonin, herbal supplements, and medication side-effects, but even after those nine hours, I don’t wake up feeling rested, and I don’t Really Wake Up until 11am or later. So mornings at work are hellish if I don’t do something to stay awake. “Falling asleep at my desk” is a literal statement. I’ve sat on the bathroom floor and fallen asleep there before. Like, it’s BAD. I need the caffeine or I can hardly move in the mornings.

I should probably try the matcha next week. My desk is right by a wall of windows, and it’s pleasantly chilly whenever it’s below 50F outside, so lately it has been the PERFECT temperature for me. I think I could handle a hot cup of tea. (As long as I can convince myself to Eat Something before I drink it, because of the aforementioned semi-sensitivity to caffeine. Not sure why, but eating something with it always seems to mitigate the side-effects.)

Wish me luck, I guess.

#don't reb|og please #rhs personal posts #rhs emlog

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momsavvyus · 5 years ago

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Feeling a little scratch in your throat? Sinus Pressure? Can’t afford to miss work?

No worries, this tea recipe is guaranteed to make you feel better in just 3days!

This all natural remedy is great for your little ones and expectant moms also. Of course you always want to check with your doctor before consuming! :)

It was a cold gloomy day, a thunderstorm brought heavy rain overnight. I woke up feeling every bit of this day. I felt fine just the night before however when I woke up in the morning, I felt as if a sudden case of the flu had taken over me. As a single mom to a 6 year old who was battling her own case of the “stuffies” I was determined to kick this cold and get me and babygirl back to feeling 100% by Monday.

I didn’t want to leave the house for obvious reasons, I felt like crap and didn’t want to go out in the rain to grab meds. Running the risk of enhancing our symptoms just wasn’t worth it. Already an advocate for all things natural, I wasn’t too stressed about not having over the counter meds available. I’m an herbal tea connoisseur so I was sure I had something that would soothe my throat and cure our “stuffies”

Sleeping the day away was not an option, I needed energy to work from home, keep an eye on baby girl and get breakfast, lunch & dinner situated. You know typical mom shit.

I ran to my tea cabinet and realized I had a box of Green Tea with Ginger, at that moment I literally felt like I hit the jackpot. Green tea naturally contains caffeine & ginger acts as an antioxidant, just what I needed. We were both congested and we only had two full days before Monday came around, so I needed to add a booster to break the congestion and get rid of any phlegm building up. I took a look at my spice cabinet and I could've sworn the Tumeric bottle jumped right out at me. I took that as a sign the universe was speaking to me.

I did some quick research on the healing properties of turmeric, and VOILA, I had found my booster. Turmeric is a very strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory When combined with ginger root and brewed in hot tea, this combination can help loosen mucus from clogged nasal passages and relax sinus pressure.

These flavors can be a bit strong, so in order to balance them out I added a tablespoon of Raw honey which heals digestive imbalances while stopping the growth of sore throat-causing Strep bacteria. These ingredients combined make for a quick and effective healing remedy.

By Monday morning, my throat was healed and we were no longer congested! Trust me you will not regret giving this a try. You can find the ingredients at your local grocery store. Follow the steps below to begin your Journey & let me know how it works for you!

Ingredients:

1 Green tea with Ginger Tea bag (BIGELOW)

1 tsp Turmeric powder

1 tbsp Raw Honey

Lime (optional) adds a boost of vitamin C, it also helps break down and rid the body of mucus.

Directions:

Bring water to a boil

Steep tea bag for 2mins (longer for more flavor)

Consume 8 ounces of tea 2-3 times per day for three days (morning & afternoon)

At night swap green tea with a lavender/chamomile blend

*If you have concerns with your child drinking green tea due to caffeine content you can substitute with Chamomile or Lemongrass.

Not really a tea drinker? Try this method (good for people on the go or who work long hours)

Directions:

Combine 1 tablespoon turmeric powder with 3.5 ounces raw honey (store it in an airtight jar.)

When needed, follow this three-day remedy: On day one, take ½ teaspoon every hour; on day two, take ½ teaspoon every two hours; on day three, take ½ teaspoon just three times.

To get rapid results it is always best to begin the remedy at the first sign of feeling ill. Once completed you will want to keep your immune system boosted by staying hydrated and taking a daily vitamin/supplement.

Hope you feel better!

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wilkinsmcdonald1-blog · 6 years ago

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How Much Muscle is It Possible To Gain In A Month

Alpha Testo Boost Some parents start their kids . They buy them plastic hoops with foam balls from toy stores. Just as the child grows up, their basketball hoops progress all of them - from smaller versions of the professional regulation basketball to the actual regulation size. I located that using a little remodeling before I leave I'm able to stay to some sort of exercise session while I'm traveling. After i exercise I find that I also make better food choices when on the street. When I purchase in an efficient workout I make better choices fall season and spring to nutrition and I not end up coming home a few pounds more. I have also bought a vitamin/pill container and take my vitamins with me when I travel. I pack my protein powder and workout supplements and have a little hand-held blender. Some hotels will provide you by using a blender for ask or make one available to finally use so you can continue to have your pre and post workout drinks. Another advantage of Dymatize creatine is testosterone boost that they does don't have a weird flavor. Because of this something are not able to find in other brands. However mix any types of sports drinks and you will not notice how the supplement could there really be. Many people are discouraged for taking supplements since the majority of the merchandise have rancid smell and flavor. The majority of that no affect the flavour of your drink. No traces whatsoever of any strange flavor so down the road . drink it easily. Caffeine Decreases Workout Problems. Yes caffeine won't only have astigmatism wide open, but will also lessen any muscle soreness you may go through in a health club. This translates into the power to pump out more reps lifting weights as well as run or bike longer doing cardio. The University of Illinois has studied well worth the of caffeine as a performance enhancer quite commonly. You will have to make sure that you are drinking sufficient amount water in order to digest your foods. The reason is that water eliminates toxins with your body, and makes you fit and strong. Dr. Stuart McGill, a spinal biomechanist and professor at the University of Waterloo, warns people never to perform demanding exercises very first thing in the morning. Since discs are hydrophilic, are inclined to absorb water and swell overnight, and it's much to be able to herniate a swollen, water-filled spine! Therefore, McGill recommends to wait at least one hour after awakening to perform. That is the critical period when your tissue is superhydrated at the point ensuing a an 18% loss of strength ultimately spine and risk of damage is enhanced! The first exercise will be the squat. Squat should maintain every workout list as an alternative to only lean muscle building exercises. It works while having leg muscles like 1 other exercise. Though vinegar seems as it would be acidic, it really helps produce your body more alkaline. A lot of your stomach moves quickly to help neutralize the acid levels from the vinegar, creating a very alkaline environment. Some gender selection resources advise that you drink vinegar that also has the "mother" attached. Since vinegar is fermented, this is a natural by-product (it's harmless). You get vinegar that isn't mother in health food stores.

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wineanddinosaur · 4 years ago

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We Asked 10 Somms: What Are You Drinking in Dry January?

Whether plans to abstain completely or just drink a bit less have so far been successful this month, there’s still time left to partake in a Dry-ish January. Restaurants and bars have embraced low- and no-alcohol menu items, while an increasing number of brands now opt for creative booze alternatives. There’s never been a better time to give what remains of Dry January another shot.

To help inspire readers shake up their drinking routines, VinePair asked wine professionals which beverages entice them the most when refraining from their favorite boozy sips. From honey-based mocktails, to a non-alcoholic twist on a beloved classic cocktail, keep reading for inventive alternatives from the experts.

The Best Dry January Beverages Recommended by Sommeliers

Athletic Brewing’s Non-Alcoholic Beer

Brooklyn Brewery’s Non-Alcoholic Beer

Rambler Sparkling Water

A Honey Blackberry Mint Mocktail

Fluère Alcohol-Free Spirits

Killer Quail’s Sparkling Piquette

Seedlip Garden 108

In Pursuit of Tea Masala Chai

Ramona Dry Grapefruit

Rowdy Mermaid Alpine Lavender Kombucha

Salcombe Distilling New London Light

Homemade Honey Soda with Hector’s Honey

Seedlip Spice

Keep reading for details about all the recommended beverages!

“My wife and I have been on a big non-alcoholic beer kick recently. This used to be one of the gaping holes for spirit-free beverages; options were limited and lackluster, and most did not satisfy a true beer craving. It’s cool to see brewers really lean into this movement. We’ve tried a handful of different brews, but we tend to always have Athletic Brewing stocked in our house. They have a great IPA, as well as a lovely golden ale that I really enjoy. But I am also really looking forward to trying Brooklyn Brewery’s new non-alcoholic beer whenever we get our hands on it down here in North Carolina.” —Ashley Malinowski, general manager/beverage director, chef/owner Scott Crawford’s Jolie, Raleigh, N.C.

“Rambler sparkling water and cold-brew Thai tea for me!” —Matt Pridgen, wine director, Underbelly Hospitality, Houston

“Honey Blackberry Mint Mocktail: This has got all the feels of a refreshing Mojito, but none of the sugar and alcohol. The ingredients are simple: honey, fresh blackberries, fresh mint leaves (all muddled to a delicious pulp), lemon juice, water, and seltzer. It’ll have you resetting after the 2020 booze fest, and once you’re ready to imbibe again, skip the water and throw in a little vodka or rum.” —Nicki McTague, sommelier and president, The Infinite Monkey Theorem, Denver

“We normally participate in Dry January every year in our household, but this year is extra special because I’m pregnant! I was fortunate enough to get an early set of samples of Fluère [alcohol-free spirits] to play around with, and I was so excited to have new options to help elevate my non-alcoholic drink recipes after making the same kind of mocktails for months. I like Fluère because it is super versatile and has a great flavor profile and body, which make it comparable to mixing with a standard spirit. At all of the JK Food Group locations, we regularly include a selection of curated mocktails on our menus, and last year at Toro, we even hosted a spirit-free dinner with beverage pairings. I’m really looking forward to carrying Fluère and other products like this so we can continue to creatively expand and elevate these kinds of beverage offerings for our guests.”—Jodie Battles, beverage director, Toro/Coppa/Little Donkey, Boston

“As a proponent of a sustainable combination of both year-round indulgence and moderation, January is inevitably a time when the latter tends to weigh a little more heavily on our minds after the sustained indulgence of the holiday season. That being said, if my lucky stars align, I’m treating myself to a bottle of Killer Quail’s low-alcohol, high-impact Sparkling Piquette of Alder Springs Vineyard Chenin Blanc, which is exactly the sunshine in a bottle we all need right about now. Additionally, I often find myself reaching for a bottle of Seedlip Garden 108 to make either a low- or no-alcohol beverage (weather/mood/pandemic/political climate depending) with some citrus, some sugar, and a little something bubbly — like a splash of that Piquette, if I’m feeling frisky.” —Mary Allison Wright, owner, Yacht Club; wine director, The Proper Pour, Denver

“My go-to is Masala Chai tea in the mornings from In Pursuit of Tea (and if we are getting geeky, I love to simmer it with the A2 organic grass-fed milk from Amos Miller Farm in Pennsylvania). In the evenings, I crack open a RAMONA ‘Dry Grapefruit’ at only 5 percent ABV per serving.” —Jordan Salcito, sommelier and founder, Drink RAMONA Inc., NYC

“This Dry January, I have been enjoying kombucha-based beverages, since I started making my own kombucha in 2020. (It was a year for new hobbies, in case you didn’t hear.) Kombucha is a wonderful option for a low-ABV or no-ABV beverage, as it provides probiotics and antioxidants, plus a little caffeine to keep your day going! Kombucha also makes a great mocktail ingredient, since it lends acid and sweetness to a drink. It is also easy to flavor in whatever way you want by using an infused simple syrup. My favorite to make is lavender kombucha, but a nice local Colorado option you can use is Rowdy Mermaid Alpine Lavender. Try 4 ounces lavender kombucha, 1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice, topped with a splash of grapefruit seltzer for an easy, refreshing beverage.” —Julie Masciangelo, sommelier and general manager, Il Posto, Denver

“Even though it just hit the market, my go-to for no-ABV is now New London Light from Salcombe Distilling. It’s super aromatic and definitely achieves a spirited status, even with zero alcohol. I like to enhance its body with some simple syrup and verjus, which lets the fresh, citrusy notes of NLL speak out.” —Will Wyatt, owner, Mister Paradise and Electric Burrito, NYC

“This January, I’ve been enjoying homemade honey soda. I love the natural complexity that unadulterated honey has as a sweetener, and I’ve gone from using it simply to sweeten other drinks, to using it as the main ingredient in some of my non-alcoholic beverages. Sonoma County is rich with high-quality apiaries, and several delicious monoflower varieties can be had — from the delicate star thistle, to the complex eucalyptus. I have fallen in love with varietal honey this year. Until recently, I hadn’t fully appreciated honey’s ability to capture and express terroir. I like to make my honey soda with organic local honey, of which there are several great suppliers, but my favorite is probably Hector’s Honey, which is a third-generation producer making pure, raw varietal honey. Aside from the honey, itself, I will add a little acid to balance out the intense sweetness, making the drink refreshing and light instead of cloying. Depending on the variety of honey, I’ll sometimes add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for a little herbaceousness.” —Jon McCarthy, sommelier and director of beverage, The Matheson Healdsburg, Healdsburg, Calif.

“The Negroni is one of my all-time favorite cocktails. The bitter and herbal tones work wonders for kickstarting your palate before a great meal. For Dry January, I like to recreate those bitter tones and adapt to more winter flavors [by] using equal parts Seedlip Spice, pomegranate juice, and tonic water. Serve over a large ice cube with a lemon peel, and it also pleases the eyes.” —Darlin Kulla, beverage director and sommelier, KNEAD Hospitality + Design, Washington, D.C.

The article We Asked 10 Somms: What Are You Drinking in Dry January? appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/10-best-dry-january-beverages-sommeliers/

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johnboothus · 4 years ago

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We Asked 10 Somms: What Are You Drinking in Dry January?

The Best Dry January Beverages Recommended by Sommeliers

Athletic Brewing’s Non-Alcoholic Beer

Brooklyn Brewery’s Non-Alcoholic Beer

Rambler Sparkling Water

A Honey Blackberry Mint Mocktail

Fluère Alcohol-Free Spirits

Killer Quail’s Sparkling Piquette

Seedlip Garden 108

In Pursuit of Tea Masala Chai

Ramona Dry Grapefruit

Rowdy Mermaid Alpine Lavender Kombucha

Salcombe Distilling New London Light

Homemade Honey Soda with Hector’s Honey

Seedlip Spice

Keep reading for details about all the recommended beverages!

“Rambler sparkling water and cold-brew Thai tea for me!” —Matt Pridgen, wine director, Underbelly Hospitality, Houston

The article We Asked 10 Somms: What Are You Drinking in Dry January? appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/articles/10-best-dry-january-beverages-sommeliers/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/we-asked-10-somms-what-are-you-drinking-in-dry-january

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lsmallfryl · 4 years ago

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Herbal Tea for the win every morning! ☕️ Here we have Raspberry Tea with Mango Herbal Aloe and Tropical Fruit Force Lift Off! . I used to drink coffee every morning and afternoon to keep me going during busy days. Light and Sweet to be exact. I immediately felt and saw the negative effects of consuming all that sugar and fatty milk/creamer. I needed a new and healthier way to wake me up, enhance my mental alertness, and keep me going throughout any day! . Herbalife’s herbal tea is only 5 calories, and supplies me with just the right amount of caffeine to get me going. The naturally flavored Herbal Aloe adds that perfect sweetness, making this tea slightly addicting lol. With no added calories it can be mixed with your water to sweeten it up a little bit too! For that extra push, I also add Lift Off, 100% B Vitamins and an all natural formula to enhance my mental alertness. This beverage is the perfect mix, a true favorite of mine! . Believe me when I tell you this tea is so delicious and if you’re looking for a healthier way to keep you energized throughout the day, I highly suggest you message me to get your tea today! . . . . #herbaltea #naturaltea #herbalife #fitnessjourney #fitness #lgbtfitness #stayfit #healthylife #getfit #blackfitness #blackqueerfitness #fitnesswomen #stronggirl #fitlesbian #blackgirlmasculine #workout #womenworkout #blackfitness #womenwholift #trainhard #fitfam #queerfitness #queerfit #healthyliving #idoherbalife #nutrition #lifestyle #gym #fit #fitnessmotivation https://www.instagram.com/p/CDmK8MWBHWK/?igshid=pgfkatzonurj

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letsallcheck · 5 years ago

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8 WINTER WELLNESS TIPS FOR YOUR HEALTHIEST SELF

1. Take Extra Care Of Your Skin

Winter is often a very rough time for our skin. Between time spent within the cold, dry winter air outside then into the moisture sucking indoor heating systems, your winter skin is simply screaming for a few hydration. The result: dry, itchy, scaly and parched skin that doesn’t look or feel too great. Besides employing a humidifier, you'll give your skin an infusion of moisture and a protective barrier from the weather by regularly using an intensive moisturizer or body balm that's meant to assist repair skin.

These creams are usually thicker and denser than what you'd apply in summer. My absolute favorite body butter is Sierra Bees Honey Almond Body Butter. It’s all-natural and made with other skin-soothing ingredients like organic honey, shea butter, cocoa butter, cupuacu butter, mango butter, and Chamomile and tea. It’s also cruelty-free, non-GMO, and has no phthalates or parabens. It not only feels silky and opulent, but it sinks into the skin quickly with no greasy feeling in the least. While it makes my skin feel amazing, it’s the Very light honey almond scent that creates me wish I can bathe in it. For those of you who want an intensive repair cream but enjoy a floral scent, try Petal Fresh Natural Remedy Critical Repair Cream made especially for dry, cracked and calloused skin. The formula uses the facility of skin healing ingredients like sea kelp, olive oil, shea butter, and aloe. The scent is robust on this one so if you’re sensitive, the Sierra Bees is that the thanks to going

Winter Skin Tip: Don’t have a humidifier? Placing a bowl of water near a heating vent or radiator will do an equivalent job with none money spent. Try adding during a few drops of your favorite essential oils for an aromatherapeutic effect.

2. Try Dry Brushing Before Bathing

If the thought of brushing your skin doesn’t sound appealing hear me out. This strange little skin-care step has been around for ages but has recently been gaining popularity. Not only does dry brushing have an extended list of advantages for your skin, including improved circulation and exfoliation of dead skin supplying you with a natural glow. But it also just feels amazing. So how does one dry brush?

All you would like for dry brushing may be a natural soft-bristle bath or shower brush. With the comb in hand, starting by brushing the bottoms of your feet, use large firm sweeping motions to “brush” your skin with long strokes always brushing the skin towards your heart. Continue brushing up your legs, belly, neck, and arms with firm strokes. Avoid skin that's sensitive, irritated, broken or inflamed. Jumping within the shower after will rinse away the dead skin and make certain to use a moisturizer afterward for smooth soft skin with a winter glow. We love this natural dry brush duo set from Eco Tools. the massive is ideal for your body while the tiny one is often used for your face and neck.

3. Take A Soothing Detox Bath

While science has yet to prove all the healing wonders of a hot bath, the anecdotal evidence alone is enough to urge the water running. albeit you’re more of a shower person, taking a shower once during a while can help improve your health in winter. Not only can it help to scale back the pain and inflammation of stiff winter muscles, but it also can help to enhance circulation, reduce stress and tension, and elevate your blood heat which may help your body repel infections and viruses. and everyone you would like maybe a 15-minute soak during a warm bath. I like enhancing my water with essential oils and natural bath oils. They add a gorgeous aroma and can keep skin from drying out. But never add essential oils on to the water. Without a carrier oil, they will immediately adhere to your skin and sensitive areas which may be quite unpleasant if you recognize what I mean. For an all-natural ready-made bath soak, I always address Abra Therapeutics. Their formulas are made up of a mixture of therapeutic essential oils, salt, and skin-soothing oils for a soothing soak. For an additional dose of moisture, a spritz of Deep Steep Dry Body Oil Rosewater & Aloe may be a light and natural thanks to keeping skin smooth and supple right out of the bathtub and stop itchy skin.

4. Be Kind To Your Lips

Cracked, dry and chapped lips in winter are what a bug bite is in summer. It’s annoying, but it’s just getting to happen. to stay lips smooth and supple, apply a natural ointment regularly. We love the Sierra Bees Organic ointment from iHerb that are made with sustainably sourced beeswax, olive oil, sunflower-seed oil and healing vitamin E . They’re also formulated to be USDA Organic, Non-GMO, cruelty-free, eco-friendly and contain no nasty ingredients like sulfates, preservatives, artificial fragrances and are never tested on animals. Available in packs of 4 or 8, I like stashing them around my house, car and in my bag. With numerous within the package, you’ll never be far away from an ointment once you need it. They also make an excellent little gift or stocking filler. And with fun flavors like custard, Mint Burst and Pomegranate there’s no way you’ll be letting your lips get dry this winter.

5. confirm to urge Your vitamin D

Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin beneficial for our system and works with calcium and vitamin K to take care of healthy bones. But often mentioned because of the ��sunshine vitamin,” it’s also the sole vitamin that needs actual sunlight to manufacture. meaning when sunlight is scarce in winter, our ability to form vitamin D decreases. the remainder must come from our diet or supplements.

But within the winter as we spend most of our time indoors and have less sunlight available during the day it is often difficult to urge all the vitamin D we'd like. Plus most folks are so bundled up that our skin isn't even exposed to sunlight. But vitamin D isn't naturally found in great quantities in most foods. While some foods are considered good sources of vitamin D including salmon, shrimp, oysters, tuna, egg yolks, milk, and mushrooms, a simple thanks to confirming you’re getting all the vitamin D you would like is during a supplement. Now Foods makes an excellent and affordable D-3 supplement with vitamin K so you'll make certain you’re getting a balanced formula.

6. you continue to Need Sunblock

If you’ve ever hit the slopes on a sunny winter day you recognize that winter sunburn is an actual thing. So if you're spending any time outdoors or near windows keep skin shielded from sun damage and still wear sunblock through the winter months. If you wear a foundation, BB cream, CC cream or tinted moisturizer check the label to ascertain if SPF protection is included. If not, make certain to seek out a sunblock product that agrees together with your skin and won’t dry you out. Don’t forget to use sunblock to your hands which can be exposed during times outdoors or while driving.

7. Stay Hydrated

We can often forget that we'd like those 8 glasses each day even as much water in winter as within the warmer months. If beverage 5 feels less comfortable during winter, try warm water with a touch of lemon or an herb tea. Caffeine-containing drinks like coffee, energy drinks, green tea, black tea, and soft drinks don’t count towards your 8 glasses each day and may promote dehydration.

8. Support Your System With Nutrition

In winter it’s so important we eat many nutrient-dense foods including dark leafy greens, and fresh fruits and veggies. Not only can they assist you to curb those cravings for sweets, but they will also strengthen your body’s defenses and assist you to repel those nasty winter bugs. If the weather makes eating salads and greens less appealing I get you. Try making a green smoothie within the morning with kale or spinach, cucumber, apple, lemon, and ginger. For days when I’m super short on time, I make a superfood-packed green drink with the award-winning Paradise Herbs ORAC-Energy Greens. the simplest dry superfood blend I’ve ever encounter, Paradise Herbs ORAC-Energy Greens is 100% vegan and crammed with alkalizing green juice powders, freeze-dried berries and veggies, superfood concentrates, herbal adaptogens, and probiotics. It also has the equivalent antioxidant power of 24 servings of fruit & vegetables so if you've got trouble getting enough plant-based foods during the day this is often a fast and powerful thanks to doing so. This does taste green, so if you’re not won't to the flavor I’ve found some juice and touch stevia can make it taste great. you'll even add this as a smoothie booster!

And don’t forget your omega-3’s! Found mostly in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel omega-3 fatty acids are shown in studies to not only reduce inflammation but also promote healthy cholesterol levels, vital signs, and liver function. it's also been shown to be an efficient aid for those that suffer from depression which may be common in winter. Omega-3 fatty acids also can assist in giving your skin a lift of hydration which may help protect against winter dryness. California Gold Nutrition, iHerb’s house brand may be a super affordable thanks to keeping super-premium Omega-3 rich animal oil in your nutritional arsenal.

When the winter has you feeling sluggish, try adding a fulvic/humic mineral source to your health regimen. They’re a plant-derived blend of trace minerals that I’ve found boosts energy and may amp up your system.

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fuelyogurt6-blog · 5 years ago

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Ricki’s Raves: Yes, This IS Healthy!

I’ve decided to start a little series called Ricki’s Raves, in which I share some of my favorite items (both food and non-food alike) that I truly love and use all the time. Today, I rave about the products I’ve discovered that provide healthier alternatives that still taste indulgent.

If you’re used to eating healthy food, you already know that healthy can easily equal “delicious.”

But what if we could make all that delicious, healthy food even. . . healthier? Without losing flavor or appeal?

In today’s edition of Ricki’s Raves, I’m talking about some new products and appliances I’ve discovered that help to enhance the health value of foods you are probably already eating. And who doesn’t want to eat even MORE yummy foods–entirely guilt-free?

1. Shantiva Copper Pitchers

What It Is

I have to admit, I wasn’t familiar with all the health benefits of using a copper pitcher before I was contacted by the folks at Shantiva Copper Pitchers. This beautiful and handcrafted pitcher looks more like an art piece than an functional tool that’s supportive of good health. Then I found out that the advantages of copper drinking vessels find their roots in Ayurveda, where they’ve been used for thousands of years.

More recently, these claims have been supported by modern health sources as well. By storing your water overnight in the pitcher and drinking it the next day, you’ll acquire all the health benefits of copper-infused water.

Why You’d Use It

Because copper is an essential mineral that is necessary for good health, you want to be sure you have enough in your body (though of course too much can be dangerous as well). When water is stored overnight in the copper pitcher, it’s gently infused with copper and can then be sipped throughout the day, used to create delicious drinks, or added as a beverage to meals to help you reach an optimum level in the body. This site recommends drinking two to three glasses a day to acquire the correct amount of copper.

Copper-infused water is not only highly alkaline (good for most of us in the modern world, as our bodies tend to be too acidic), it’s also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, support thyroid health, support clear skin and aid in digestion.

In addition, copper is known to be anti-bacterial, so water stored in a copper pitcher remains fresh longer and there’s much less chance of any unwanted microbes surviving in it.

What I Love About It

The copper pitcher is a gorgeous piece of handcrafted art as well as a health-supportive, functional tool.

I really love that each pitcher is created by hand, one at a time, so no two are exactly alike. The craftsmanship is clear and it’s put together exceptionally well; each pitcher is crafted from a single piece of copper, which makes it much more durable and long-lasting than inferior products (in fact, they company promises that they will last a lifetime).

The copper pitcher is also really easy to clean--simply wash the inside with regular dish soap and water, then dry right away. If you find that the pitcher develops a patina (dull spots), then just cut a lemon, sprinkle a little salt on it, and rub over the surface. I’ve done this a couple times already after we forgot to dry the pitcher immediately after washing and the copper acquired a few dull spots where the water dried; it brightened up immediately and looked good as new. (You’ll find full cleaning instructions with the pitcher or on the Shantiva website).

Plus, it’s breathtakingly beautiful just sitting on your table!

Cost

On the Shantiva site, the pitchers are selling for $39.50 US or $50.90 CAD. Plus, they ship worldwide!

How I Use It. . .

As suggested by Shantiva, I stored my water overnight (or 6-8 hours) in the copper pitcher before drinking. This allows the copper ions to dissolve in the water (a process called Oligodynamic effect, ‘‘which has the ability to destroy a wide range of harmful microbes, molds, fungi” and so on). [source].

It’s also important to ensure that your vessel is made of pure copper (the Shantiva copper pitcher is), and that you don’t overdo it. Having a drink in the morning and perhaps one in the evening is enough to acquire sufficient copper. Also, this site suggests taking a one month break from the copper-infused water after drinking it for 3 months, to allow our bodies to recalibrate and eliminate any excess.

After I first filled the pitcher, I simply drank the water straight up to see how I liked it. It was fresh tasting and somehow “lighter” than what I was used to. There was no metallic taste (though apparently some people do detect it a bit). Really lovely!

I also started making lemon-infused water once the weather got a bit warmer. You can add whatever fruits or flavorings you prefer, but please note: it’s very important that you not add anything except water to the pitcher! Acids can degrade the copper and allow too much to leech into the water. So be sure to mix any beverages separately, and drink them from regular glasses!

2. Breville’s Smart Oven Air

What It Is

So we’re all familiar with the air-frying craze these days, right? Air frying allows you to achieve similar results to deep frying with only a fraction of the oil used, so that the final product is just as tasty, but much better for you.

The new Breville Smart Oven Air is a one-stop countertop appliance for air frying, convection baking, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, proofing, pizza-making and more–and let’s not forget toasting! You’ll be able to replace a long list of other small appliances with this one amazing oven.

Why You’d Use It

We had had a toaster oven for decades, but always found that it was either too small for many tasks, and of course wasn’t capable of others (like dehydrating or air frying). The Smart Oven Air is now stationed firmly where our toaster oven used to be, and we use it several times a day most days.

Some of the most common functions we’ve used so far are the air fryer (for sweet potato fries and regular fries; I’m really keen to try some of the more exotic recipes you’d find in my friend JL’s book, The Vegan Air Fryer, too), the convection oven (so quick and evenly browned!), the regular oven (recipe testing), the reheat function (perfectly timed) and the warm function (when you have a stack of pancakes or waffles you want to keep warm while you cook more).

What I Love About It

Just take a look at this 15-second video:

As with all the Breville appliances I’ve tried so far, the Smart Oven Air makes it as easy as possible for you so you can achieve the best results with the least effort. This means separate dials for function, temperature and time, all of which come pre-set, but which you can also change as you like.

In addition, this oven is big enough to house a 9×13 inch (23 x 33 cm) roasting pan, 12-cup muffin cup or 9 pieces of toast, yet it’s quiet enough that you won’t really notice it as it runs in the background. It fits neatly on our countertop where our old toaster oven used to be, yet replaces about 5 other appliances in the kitchen.

Cost

The Smart Oven Air retails for $599.99 in Canada and $399.95 in the US.

How I Use It

We’ve been playing with all the features we can since we got the oven a couple of weeks ago. First up, of course, was some air-fried sweet potato fries (see video, below).

These were fantastic! They browned up really quickly (they were ready in about a quarter of the time that they normally would take) and were fully crisp on the outside in only 18 minutes. Because sweet potato fries tend to be softer than regular fries, it normally takes a lot longer to become crispy, but not these babies!

Next up were some of my Best Home Fries Ever, made in the air fryer instead of a frying pan. Another hit–and we loved that they were ready in about a quarter of the typical time.

I’ve also used the oven to reheat weekend brunch waffles (which, as it turns out, I made in my Breville Smart Waffle maker!). So convenient when you’ve got frozen waffles on hand!

Finally, I’ve been developing a grain-free brownie recipe and have tested it both in the conventional oven as well as with the convection setting. I love the oven’s ability to switch back and forth between the two! There’s also a “super-convection” setting for those hard-core convection fans. The brownie came out about the same in each case, but obviously baked up much faster with the convection setting.

[Baking up a perfect brownie in the Smart Oven Air!]

I’m looking forward to giving some of the other settings a try, particularly the “Dehydrate” setting. This recipe is one I’ve made for ages in the regular dehydrator–and now that machine may just be set aside, too.

3. GLOW Ball Sugar-Free Truffles

[Coconut Cream Pie (with pieces of coconut on top) and Brazil Nut Cream (with Brazil nut crumble) GLOWBalls.]

What It Is

If you’re looking for a rich, indulgent-tasting treat that contains NO sugar, NO dairy, NO caffeine and NO artificial or unhealthy ingredients, look no further! Julie Beyer’s GLOWBall Truffles Classic Collection (or GLOWBall Truffles Luxe Collection) are an entirely natural, organic sweet treat that allows you all the enjoyment of the most sinful-tasting truffles without any of the negative consequences.

GLOW Balls are made with carob (rather than cocoa or chocolate), for a no-caffeine alternative that’s good for just about any diet, including the anti-candida diet! (If you prefer naturally sweetened chocolate, you can peek at the GLOW Chocolate Collection).

The combination of carob, organic coconut and coconut oil, plus an array of superfood ingredients like maca, mesquite or lucuma, ensure these truffles are not only incredibly delicious, but also elegant enough to serve to guests at the most posh of dinner parties or events.

Why You’d Use It

[Some of the “Naked” Truffles. Mmm!]

If you’re steering clear of sugar or refined sweeteners like I am, GLOWBalls are a fantastic way to treat yourself to something low glycemic, naturally sweetened (with green stevia and, for some of the products, maple syrup) and utterly delectable. There was absolutely none of the typical “stevia aftertaste” that people mention when consuming stevia-sweetened products; only a subtle sweetness combined with rich, full flavor.

These treats are also suitable for just about every “free-from” diet out there. As Julie states on the site, “All the ingredients we use are certified organic, refined sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten free, soy-free, GMO free and we use no preservatives, soy, corn or dairy. Everything we make is real and nutritious.” But you wouldn’t know it from the heavenly taste and texture!

What I Love About It

First and foremost, I loved the taste of these truffles. No, they’re not chocolate, but they were chocolatey nonetheless, satiny smooth, creamy and rich, with a mouthfeel like the very best chocolate truffle filling, melting slowly and lovingly on the tongue. Truly a delightful experience that you will relish.

My sample contained two flavors from the GLOWBall LUXE Collection: Brazil Nut Coconut Cream and Coconut Cream Pie. The flavor of the Brazil Nut Cream was similar to delicate milk chocolate, impossibly creamy and rich. The Coconut Cream Pie, while firmer, provided an almost fudge-like taste that was fantastic as well.

These treats are definitely the best products I’ve tasted in the sugar-free chocolate/truffle category, and incredibly high quality. GLOWBalls are a treat for both your taste buds and your whole body.

Cost

The truffles’ price varies depending on the size of the package you purchase, and the price per truffle decreases with larger orders. They start at $2.00 (Canadian) per piece, down to $1.40 per piece for the largest package; shipping is extra (and they ship outside Canada, too!).

But GUESS WHAT? Julie has kindly offered a special discount just to RH readers! Use the discount code RickiGLOW10 upon purchase and you’ll get 10% off your entire order! Pretty sweet, right? 🙂

How I Use It

I have to admit it, after the first taste, I was hooked and basically enjoyed the GLOWBalls all on their own, savoring every single bite. It was only after my sample had disappeared (far too quickly, I may add), that I realized it could have been fun to combine them with some other treats.

If you have the willpower to set some aside after you try them, they’d be great:

chopped and/or crumbled over your morning smoothie bowl;

chopped and added as a layer in a yogurt or pudding parfait;

mixed into your favorite flavor of ice cream; or

stirred into whatever sweet treat you think would benefit from the addition!

4. Health Garden Low Glycemic Sweeteners

What It Is

Health Garden began selling low-glycemic natural sweeteners in 2010 and currently bills itself as “the leading brand of natural sweeteners in the USA with our products being sold in 750+ stores across the country.” Yet, I have to admit, even though low-glycemic sweeteners are all I ever use, I was entirely shocked that I’d never heard of them.

Why? Because, while you may not find them in every local health food store, they are readily available in retailers such as Shoprite, HomeGoods, and Sam’s Club, and online at amazon.com, Walmart, Urth Market, and Jet.com and others.

Health Garden offers a full range of lower and zero-glycemic natural sweeteners, such as stevia, xylitol (my favorite granular low glycemic sweetener), erythritol, monk fruit, agave nectar, and more. When my package arrived, I was overwhelmed by all the amazing goodies inside!

Why You’d Use It

If you’re on an anti-candida diet or cutting down on sugar consumption for any reason (diabetes, other blood sugar issues, Lyme disease, leaky gut or just to get away from too much sugar in the diet), you want to be using lower glycemic sweeteners like those from Health Garden.

With so many options these days that taste and function like sugar without actually spiking blood sugar, there’s no reason not to use this type of alternative, natural sweetener. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can opt for stevia (the leaves of which provide natural sweetness), xylitol (a sugar alcohol that does exist naturally, but in smaller quantities, and has been shown to have some anti-candida benefits), or monk fruit (a zero glycemic sweetener that provides all natural sweetness), for instance.

These sweeteners work wherever another, higher glycemic sweetener might also work. See below for some great ideas!

What I Love About It

The products are cleanly packaged, all natural, gluten-free, GMO-free and all taste great (note that the only one I didn’t try yet is the agave nectar, since I’m not using it as much these days). All the dry sweeteners I sampled were great. They taste just as good as the other ones I’ve tried and produced the same kinds of results in baked goods and other treats.

And, of course, these low glycemic sweeteners are so much better for your health than sugar!

Cost

Depending on which product you purchase, the costs varies from $9.99 US for the stevia packets to upwards of $36.00 US for the 3-pound Monkfruit bag.

How I Use It

If you follow this site, you know that I LOVE my low-glycemic sweeteners and use them all the time! Do a search for “xylitol” or “stevia” on the site and you’ll find hundreds of hits. So here are just a few of the most recent sweet experiments I’ve had:

The BEST Chocolate Avocado Pudding.

This pudding is a recipe I created for my Sweet Life Club members, and it’s been all the rage for the past month since it was introduced! Using the Health Garden Golden Monkfruit as the sweetener, it reminds me of the classic cooked chocolate pudding you had as a child, with absolutely no trace of bitterness whatsoever.

Here’s what one Sweet Life member said about it:

Carrot Cake Ice Cream.

How perfect is this Carrot Cake Ice Cream for the warm weather? Using xylitol as the primary sweetener, it results in a perfectly balanced, sweet and creamy dessert that you’d never know didn’t contain sugar.

Not-Ella Carob Butter.

This is a great substitute for nutella if you’re someone who’s concerned about all the sugar in the traditional spread–and it’s even nut-free. This recipe uses stevia as the primary sweetener.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Ricki’s Raves–and that you’ve got a new perspective on how fantastic healthy food can be!

Want to know what else I love? Find the entire collection of Ricki’s Raves posts here.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by some or all of the companies featured here. As always, my opinions are my own. I never (ever) recommend items or products on the site that I don’t already use and love. If some links are affliate links and you choose to purchase using those links, at no cost to you, I will receive a small percentage of the sale.

Subscribe for recipes and more about living well without sugar, gluten, eggs or dairy! Click here to subscribe to RickiHeller.com via email. You’ll receive weekly emails sharing recipes and videos as soon as they’re posted, plus weekly updates and news about upcoming events and programs. You can unsubscribe at any time. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information. A healthy lifestyle CAN be sweet!

Source: https://www.rickiheller.com/2018/05/rickis-raves-yes-this-is-healthy/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

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pigeonmark6-blog · 6 years ago

Text

Ricki’s Raves: Yes, This IS Healthy!

If you’re used to eating healthy food, you already know that healthy can easily equal “delicious.”

But what if we could make all that delicious, healthy food even. . . healthier? Without losing flavor or appeal?

1. Shantiva Copper Pitchers

What It Is

Why You’d Use It

In addition, copper is known to be anti-bacterial, so water stored in a copper pitcher remains fresh longer and there’s much less chance of any unwanted microbes surviving in it.

What I Love About It

The copper pitcher is a gorgeous piece of handcrafted art as well as a health-supportive, functional tool.

Plus, it’s breathtakingly beautiful just sitting on your table!

Cost

On the Shantiva site, the pitchers are selling for $39.50 US or $50.90 CAD. Plus, they ship worldwide!

How I Use It. . .

2. Breville’s Smart Oven Air

What It Is

Why You’d Use It

What I Love About It

Just take a look at this 15-second video:

Cost

The Smart Oven Air retails for $599.99 in Canada and $399.95 in the US.

How I Use It

We’ve been playing with all the features we can since we got the oven a couple of weeks ago. First up, of course, was some air-fried sweet potato fries (see video, below).

Next up were some of my Best Home Fries Ever, made in the air fryer instead of a frying pan. Another hit–and we loved that they were ready in about a quarter of the typical time.

I’ve also used the oven to reheat weekend brunch waffles (which, as it turns out, I made in my Breville Smart Waffle maker!). So convenient when you’ve got frozen waffles on hand!

[Baking up a perfect brownie in the Smart Oven Air!]

3. GLOW Ball Sugar-Free Truffles

[Coconut Cream Pie (with pieces of coconut on top) and Brazil Nut Cream (with Brazil nut crumble) GLOWBalls.]

What It Is

Why You’d Use It

[Some of the “Naked” Truffles. Mmm!]

What I Love About It

Cost

But GUESS WHAT? Julie has kindly offered a special discount just to RH readers! Use the discount code RickiGLOW10 upon purchase and you’ll get 10% off your entire order! Pretty sweet, right? 🙂

How I Use It

If you have the willpower to set some aside after you try them, they’d be great:

chopped and/or crumbled over your morning smoothie bowl;

chopped and added as a layer in a yogurt or pudding parfait;

mixed into your favorite flavor of ice cream; or

stirred into whatever sweet treat you think would benefit from the addition!

4. Health Garden Low Glycemic Sweeteners

What It Is

Why You’d Use It

These sweeteners work wherever another, higher glycemic sweetener might also work. See below for some great ideas!

What I Love About It

And, of course, these low glycemic sweeteners are so much better for your health than sugar!

Cost

Depending on which product you purchase, the costs varies from $9.99 US for the stevia packets to upwards of $36.00 US for the 3-pound Monkfruit bag.

How I Use It

The BEST Chocolate Avocado Pudding.

Here’s what one Sweet Life member said about it:

Carrot Cake Ice Cream.

Not-Ella Carob Butter.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of Ricki’s Raves–and that you’ve got a new perspective on how fantastic healthy food can be!

Want to know what else I love? Find the entire collection of Ricki’s Raves posts here.

Source: https://www.rickiheller.com/2018/05/rickis-raves-yes-this-is-healthy/

0 notes

growlegalweed-blog · 6 years ago

Text

Legal Weed Resources

Check out... https://legalweed.gq/420/venus-og/

Venus OG

In this guide you will learn

Effects

Fragrance

Flavors

Adverse reactions

Medical

Growing

Flowering time

The planetary series is composed of OG Kush hybrids named after planets in the solar system. Among it is Venus OG, a Sativa-dominant strain that takes advantage of its gravity-defying head high. It brings the mind beyond the clouds and onto another plane of existence through its refreshingly fruity smoke.

In creating the strain, its original breeders used the original ocean-grown, OG Kush. Beloved for its effects, it has spawned multiple children with its signature notes of pine and lemon. Sadly, the rest of its lineage remains to be a breeder’s secret.

Tip: make sure to download my free Grow Bible for more information

Apart from its recreational buzz, Venus OG also has an impressive therapeutic track record. Its ability to ease the symptoms of multiple health issues lies in its mentally-clearing euphoria and tranquilizing body high. Users not only forget about the worries temporarily but also feel lighter than air.

Information About Venus OG Strain

ORIGIN OG Kush EFFECTS Focused – 10 Tingly – 9 Euphoric – 3 Happy – 3 Relaxed – 3 FRAGRANCE Citrus, lemon, sweet, berry, fruity, pine FLAVORS Tropical, citrus, lemon, berry, pine, woody ADVERSE REACTIONS Dry mouth – 10 MEDICAL Depression – 10 Stress – 10 Headaches – 5 Inflammation – 3 Nausea – 3 FLOWERING TIME INDOOR 10 to 12 weeks FLOWERING TIME OUTDOOR Late October to mid-November PLANT HEIGHT Unknown THC CONTENT % 14% to 25% CBD % Up to 1% INDICA/SATIVA % 20%/80% INDOOR YIELD 12 to 16 ounces per square meter OUTDOOR YIELD 16 ounces or more per plant CLIMATE Mediterranean climate GROWTH LEVEL Unknown RESISTANCE TO DISEASE Unknown

* 10 is the highest * 1 is the lowest

Effects

During the onset, Venus OG delivers a quick-acting rush of euphoria that manifests within minutes after the first two to three puffs. It clears the mind and leaves users feeling happy as the psychedelic effects persist.

Venus OG Strain Effects Image Powered by leafly.com

The mental clarity is a transformative experience for many casual users. It brings out fresher perspectives as thoughts flow and form freely in the mind. Not to mention, its ability to heighten sensory experience is one-of-a-kind. It brings out a keen awareness that improves focus.

After about an hour or town, a tingling sensation originating from the temples begins to surge through the muscles. Subtle at first, it gradually intensifies until all tension in the body is relieved. Although deeply relaxing, the limberness allows users to move like a well-oiled machine.

Overall, Venus OG is a great strain to use in the morning or early afternoon. It pairs its mentally clarifying buzz with a soothing body high that calls for productivity. Even at the comedown, it keeps users nimble while completing small tasks or other physical activities.

Fragrance

Venus OG is slightly acrid due to its tangy undertones of citrus and lemon. Softening it through a sweet overtone is the taste of berries and ripe fruit. Broken apart or combusted, it produces a refreshing scent reminiscent of woody pine.

Flavors

Venus OG’s smoke swarms the palate with a tropical tang. It has citric overtones of lemon with hints of berries. Accentuating the sweetness is an undertone of pine which, on the exhale, leaves a woody aftertaste in the mouth.

Adverse reactions

Venus OG Strain Reactions – Image Powered by cannasos.com

A cottonmouth is a typical reaction to using marijuana, regardless of the strain. Along with it are red eyes which, although mild, can be quite irritating. The dry spell can last up to a few hours but eventually goes away on its own. Still, users may down a few glasses of water and avoid drinks like alcohol or caffeine to manage the symptoms.

Although rare, it is possible for users to green out while smoking Venus OG. It is a condition characterized by heightened audiovisual sensory experience which can trigger dizziness and paranoia. Although one’s disposition before the session plays a role in inducing the side effects, it can also be the result of overconsumption. Hence, users should start slow with low dosages.

Medical

Stress is among the top reasons that users cite regarding cannabis use. To this end, Venus OG works just as effectively as any other strain. Its strong head high uplifts the mood and calms the mind while boosting confidence. Apart from being relieving stress, the happy high also manages symptoms of mental health issues like depression, PTSD, and anxiety.

In high concentrations, THC turns into a natural painkiller that relieves aches and pains all over the body. Beginning from the temples, it delivers a soothing buzz that irons out tension and unwanted contractions. On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory properties appease swelling and redness.

Venus OG Strain Medical -Image Powered by allbud.com

The same relaxing qualities also calm turbulence in the gastrointestinal tract. Its antiemetic effects reduce the chances of vomiting by preventing muscles in the stomach from cramping uncontrollably. For this reason, it is a source of comfort to cancer patients experiencing the nauseating effects of chemotherapy.

Growing

Climate and location are two critical factors to consider when growing Venus OG. As a Sativa-dominant strain, it has a natural inclination toward the sunny weather and long days of equatorial regions.

This is not to say that the plant will not thrive in the northern hemisphere. On the contrary, it performs just as well outdoors in either gardens or farms. However, it may take longer to flower due to the lack of sunlight. For this reason, many growers prefer cultivating it indoors.

TIP: Looking to buy seeds? Visit the ILGM cannabis seed shop

A controllable environment allows growers to mimic a Mediterranean climate by adjusting factors such as lighting, temperature, and humidity. One may also choose between different types of medium such as soil, coco coir, or hydroponics to enhance either flavors or yields. The plant will need to be topped early though. Its lanky structure can sometimes cramp the limited vertical space. Reducing its vegetative phase by a few weeks will keep it short.

Because of its height, the best plant training method to pair Venus OG with is the Screen of Green. It requires placing a screen a few feet above a batch and removing any leaves or branches that go beyond it to create more budding sites. Alternatively, one may also weave it into the net for an even canopy.

Flowering Time

Indoor Venus OG has an indoor flowering period of 7 to 9 weeks. Each square meter produces between 12 to 16 ounces of buds per plant. Under the expert care of a seasoned grower, however, it yields much higher.

Outdoor Flowers usually begin to bloom around the last days of October to the first or second week of November. Depending on the climate, it can sometimes extend up to a week more. Growers can expect it to yield at least 16 ounces of buds per plant once ready for harvest.

Have you ever smoked or grown your own Venus OG? Please let me know what you think about this marijuana strain in the comments below.

Robert

Read Venus OG on I Love Growing Marijuana.

#Venus

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archerwindsor · 4 years ago

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Make Rose Tea At Home

How To Make Rose Tea At Home

Nowadays with not much going outside the house, most of us are looking for some interesting tastes and flavors. This time I thought of making Rose tea at home. Rose is my favorite flower not only because it is a beautiful flower with great fragrance but also due to its wide-ranging health benefits. Oh! how I love making Gulkand every year. I remember my grandmother making bottles of Rose Sharbat at home out of the homegrown organic rose petals.

We Indians have been using rose petals in various traditional foods as well as drinks for ages. Rose has a lot of health benefits, for overall health as well as skincare. You can read about Rosehip seed oil which is frequently used in beauty regimes here…

Recently I was surprised to know that Rose tea is one of the best herbal teas and must be added to your daily diet if you are trying to lose weight. Surprised, are you?

Benefits of Rose Tea

Actually Rose tea also helps improve skin and hair health due to the antioxidants present in it along with its benefits for getting good digestion too.

It is also a great stress buster and a perfect mood-enhancer because of its aroma.

Rose tea is anti-inflammatory, due to the presence of antioxidants in it.

Rose tea is a healthy caffeine-free option for coffee or regular tea.

It helps to curb hunger pangs and enhance weight loss.

Rose tea is known to help good bacteria in our digestive tract.

It is used as a herbal remedy for constipation as well as diarrhea.

Rose tea can prevent urinary tract infections as it has detox and diuretic properties.

Rose tea might help us fight infections, as it contains vitamin C. Well that seems to be good news during Coronavirus spread.

A regular intake of Rose tea with honey can make your skin also glow.

Make Rose Tea At Home, the easiest way…….

let me share with you a very easy way to make Rose tea at home. People like me have hardly any faith in packaged anything that has an aroma and strong flavor so I do not trust store-bought rose tea. I prefer making my Rose Tea at home with fresh rose petals handpicked from my little kitchen garden. The rose pictured above is from my pesticide-free and purely organic kitchen garden.

There are several ways of making rose tea. One can buy dried rose petals from the market and mix with tea leaves. Nowadays rose tea buds are available online too.

To make rose tea from fresh rose petals all you need is rose petals of one or two pesticide-free roses.

Pluck out the petals and wash them in the running water.

Add those to two cups of boiling water. Let it boil for a few minutes.

Add any green tea of your choice.

Cover and let it steep for a few minutes.

Strain the tea into glasses and add sweetener of your choice. I love to add honey, black salt, and some fresh lime juice to it for that extra freshness during summers. You may add ginger or cinnamon to make rose tea more flavourful.

This is the final result of my Fresh Rose Tea

I make a few cups Rose tea in the morning and keep in refrigerator to be had later with some ice cubes added. This tea may be consumed once or twice in a day to aid weight loss but remember to keep sweeteners under control or maybe just avoided.

You may also like reading –

Top 15 Benefits Of Tea You Should Not Miss!

5 Herbal Teas To Treat Various Ailments

Kombucha Tea – 7 Amazing Health Benefits!

Make Rose Tea At Home published first on https://olimpsportnutritionuk.tumblr.com/

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michaelfallcon · 5 years ago

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Daniel Brown: The Sprudge Twenty Interview

Daniel Brown, Gilly Brew Bar of Stone Mountain, GA

Welcome to The Sprudge Twenty Interviews presented by Pacific Barista Series. For a complete list of 2019 Sprudge Twenty honorees please visit sprudge.com/twenty.

Nominated by Justin Brostek and Juanita Brown.

Daniel Brown is the founder of Gilly Brew Bar, a successful and important new coffee company based in the Stone Mountain suburb of Atlanta. Housed inside a historic 19th century home known as “The Mayor’s House,” purchased in 2015 by Brown and his wife, Shellane Brown, Gilly pushes quality and innovation across an ever-changing range of premium coffee “elixirs” featuring dried herbs, bitters, and aromatics. Brown was nominated by multiple people for The Sprudge Twenty, and in one nomination essay is described as “one of the most innovative, creative, savvy interpreters of the coffee experience I have ever encountered.”

This interview has been edited and condensed.

What issue in coffee do you care about most?

There are so many, but I deeply care about advancing the education of coffee production to coffee consumers.

By the time our coffee reaches the hopper or drip station, it has traveled miles and has passed through many hands. I want all of my customers to not only have a great cup of coffee but also a better understanding of the process and effort that it took to adeptly prepare their beverage. In turn, I believe customers would appreciate the nuances of a pure, well-grown, cultivated, harvested, roasted, and brewed beverage.

What cause or element in coffee drives you?

Mixing & pairing coffee with other flavors is intriguing to me. Taking risks and challenging myself creatively through innovation, experimentation & revivals of alternative brewing methods & technology are a few causes and elements that drive me.

What issue in coffee do you think is critically overlooked?

Just to name a few:

Sadly coffee shops have become participants and identifiers of gentrification, as opposed to genuinely helping to revitalize and/or reinvest into communities.

Much of Western culture is saturated with excess. The monitoring of caffeine intake per day is not really implemented, I believe it should.

Lack of positive awareness and exposure for amazing black- and brown-owned businesses around the world! But Big Ups to Sprudge for championing and acknowledging talented working baristas, cafe owners, and career professionals of all shades across the globe; especially for the ones who wouldn’t have received this recognition in the past.

What is the quality you like best about coffee?

I see coffee as an artisanal food and my vision is to use it to enhance the culinary experience.

The quality I like best about coffee is its many notes; every crop from every origin tells a different story. But my interest doesn’t end at how coffee tastes. What interests me most is why coffee tastes the way it does. Knowing the why gives me a foundation and a story that I get to share and interpret in my own unique way.

Did you experience a “god shot” or life-changing moment of coffee revelation early in your career?

I experienced a life-changing moment of coffee when I was a child.

The doctor diagnosed me with asthma and recommended I use an inhaler. But anyone who grew up in and around some sort of Caribbean culture knows about how home remedies are often favored over prescribed medication any day. And so at night when I would wheeze, mum would give me a hot cuppa black coffee. It would open up my airways in the lungs and therefore relieve my symptoms.

Coffee for me then was used for medicinal purposes and I still see it that way. It kept me alive (and awake) multiple times.

What is your idea of coffee happiness?

My idea of coffee happiness is being able to serve anyone that steps foot into my bar. A customer may visit that one time and never come again or they may decide to come back. Either way, I know both customers will leave, feeling Gilly.

If you could have any job in the coffee industry, what would it be and why?

Farming or the advancement of technology for the industry. Maybe inventing a new roasting machine or brewing method.

Who are your coffee heroes?

My coffee heroes are all of the men and women who labor day in and out in the farming lands. They cultivate the land that grows this wonderful creation of a tree that produces these juicy peaberries we call coffee.

If you could drink coffee with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Too easy. I’d drink coffee with my grandfather, Gilbert. I named my company after him and I’m blessed to still have him around. Sipping on some coffee on our family land in Jamaica, no words exchanged would be just enough.

If you didn’t get bit by the coffee bug, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

I’d definitely still be pursuing another one of my business ideas. A studio, maybe? Music (singing/songwriting) has always been a huge part of my life. Perhaps I could sing behind my bar for now, become the first bonafide singing barista.

Yeah, I’ll start there… Look out for my first EP with my band of baristas, aka The Gilly Gang.

Do you have any coffee mentors?

Unfortunately, I do not. I’ve subscribed to a couple of vets on YouTube who have been in the game for some time now. OG’s like James Hoffmann or cats like Chris Baca are always dropping knowledge. In a lot of ways, I’ve become a mentor to others. But I have no in-person coffee mentors in my life. That would be awesome though—hit me up if you’d like to teach me some things.

What do you wish someone would’ve told you when you were first starting out in coffee?

I wish someone would have told me how difficult it was to reach people in your own community. I get so much support from people outside of Stone Mountain Village but I have many neighbors, just walking distance away, who never come over for a cup.

You know what? I’ll bring them a cup someday.

Name three coffee apparatuses you’d take into space with you.

A nursery (consisting of a raised bed, filled with organic fertilizer) to guarantee healthy seedlings Wet mill Dry mill

A drip irrigation system with valves (to avoid water waste) will already be installed in my rocket of course. If you haven’t figured it out already, my goal is to grow the first coffee farm in space! Crazy huh?

What’s the best song to brew coffee to?

That’s a hard one. My go to’s would have to be a worship song or an instrumental by an artist like Snarky Puppy, Towser, or a classic beat by James Dewitt Yancey aka J.Dilla.

Look into the crystal ball—where do you see yourself in 20 years?

No need for the crystal ball, 20 years from now I will have a sustainable business that has grown to bear much fruit.

My wife and I will have a free weekend to do whatever we please. We’d have children by then and we’d be in a position to help them focus on their dreams (college, travel abroad, or continue in their parent’s footsteps).

I’ll be financially in a place where I’d also be able to pour into the lives of others (family and friends…) most of all, I’d do all that I can to advance the Kingdom, for the glory of the Lord.

What’d you eat for breakfast this morning?

Porridge. My mum’s recipe, made by my wife Shellane. Cheap and easy to make but very filling.

When did you last drink coffee?

Does right now count???

What was it?

It was a shot of spro: Gilly Blend (Brazil + Colombia), bright, buttery, brown sugar, roasted by my partners at Firelight Coffee Roasters.

The Sprudge Twenty is presented by Pacific Barista Series. For a complete list of 2019 Sprudge Twenty honorees please visit sprudge.com/twenty

Zachary Carlsen is a co-founder and editor at Sprudge Media Network. Read more Zachary Carlsen on Sprudge.

The post Daniel Brown: The Sprudge Twenty Interview appeared first on Sprudge.

Daniel Brown: The Sprudge Twenty Interview published first on https://medium.com/@LinLinCoffee

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shebreathesslowly · 5 years ago

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Daniel Brown: The Sprudge Twenty Interview

Daniel Brown, Gilly Brew Bar of Stone Mountain, GA

Welcome to The Sprudge Twenty Interviews presented by Pacific Barista Series. For a complete list of 2019 Sprudge Twenty honorees please visit sprudge.com/twenty.

Nominated by Justin Brostek and Juanita Brown.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

What issue in coffee do you care about most?

There are so many, but I deeply care about advancing the education of coffee production to coffee consumers.

What cause or element in coffee drives you?

What issue in coffee do you think is critically overlooked?

Just to name a few:

Sadly coffee shops have become participants and identifiers of gentrification, as opposed to genuinely helping to revitalize and/or reinvest into communities.

Much of Western culture is saturated with excess. The monitoring of caffeine intake per day is not really implemented, I believe it should.

What is the quality you like best about coffee?

I see coffee as an artisanal food and my vision is to use it to enhance the culinary experience.

Did you experience a “god shot” or life-changing moment of coffee revelation early in your career?

I experienced a life-changing moment of coffee when I was a child.

Coffee for me then was used for medicinal purposes and I still see it that way. It kept me alive (and awake) multiple times.

What is your idea of coffee happiness?

If you could have any job in the coffee industry, what would it be and why?

Farming or the advancement of technology for the industry. Maybe inventing a new roasting machine or brewing method.

Who are your coffee heroes?

If you could drink coffee with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

If you didn’t get bit by the coffee bug, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

Yeah, I’ll start there… Look out for my first EP with my band of baristas, aka The Gilly Gang.

Do you have any coffee mentors?

What do you wish someone would’ve told you when you were first starting out in coffee?

You know what? I’ll bring them a cup someday.

Name three coffee apparatuses you’d take into space with you.

A nursery (consisting of a raised bed, filled with organic fertilizer) to guarantee healthy seedlings Wet mill Dry mill

What’s the best song to brew coffee to?

That’s a hard one. My go to’s would have to be a worship song or an instrumental by an artist like Snarky Puppy, Towser, or a classic beat by James Dewitt Yancey aka J.Dilla.

Look into the crystal ball—where do you see yourself in 20 years?

No need for the crystal ball, 20 years from now I will have a sustainable business that has grown to bear much fruit.

What’d you eat for breakfast this morning?

Porridge. My mum’s recipe, made by my wife Shellane. Cheap and easy to make but very filling.

When did you last drink coffee?

Does right now count???

What was it?

It was a shot of spro: Gilly Blend (Brazil + Colombia), bright, buttery, brown sugar, roasted by my partners at Firelight Coffee Roasters.

The Sprudge Twenty is presented by Pacific Barista Series. For a complete list of 2019 Sprudge Twenty honorees please visit sprudge.com/twenty

Zachary Carlsen is a co-founder and editor at Sprudge Media Network. Read more Zachary Carlsen on Sprudge.

The post Daniel Brown: The Sprudge Twenty Interview appeared first on Sprudge.

from Sprudge http://bit.ly/2wJipIc

#Sprudge

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cookszone-blog · 7 years ago

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Refresh Your Morning Routine & 4 Overnight Oat...

New Post has been published on http://healthy-cook.com/refresh-your-morning-routine-4-overnight-oat/

Refresh Your Morning Routine & 4 Overnight Oat...

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Today’s post is brought to you by our friends at Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia Sweetener – Zero Calories but all opinions are 100% mine.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I feel like there is a mile long list of things I would love to change. In an ideal world, I would work out more, use my phone less, eat more veggies, meditate … you get the idea. But year after year of swearing this will be the year everything changes, I don’t succeed. Basically, I am just setting myself up for failure. That’s why this year, I am trying something new!

Instead of making a hundred resolutions, I am going to commit to making some small changes to my routine that will help set me up for success. For me, that means starting first thing in the morning.

I don’t know about you, but my morning sets the tone for the rest for my day. If I start out my day out on the right foot, then my whole day goes more smoothly. A breakfast made with real ingredients leads to healthier choices all day. A few minutes of tech-free time to focus on gratitude change the way I approach challenges. Working out gives me more energy and always makes me feel more productive.

So this year I am getting out of my morning rut (i.e. hitting snooze at least 3 times and spending my first waking moments scrolling through social media), and jumping into something new. A fresh, energizing morning routine packed with nutritious food, happy brain space, some movement, and an earlier wake up time. Don’t worry, not too much earlier.

1. Waking Up 30 Minutes Earlier:

With two children under two, I rarely get a moment to myself. Reflecting on the past few months, I came to realize that whenever I would randomly get up before them, we would all have a more relaxed, peaceful day. So now it’s time to start doing that on purpose.

My ridiculous, effective strategy: Putting my phone across the room so that I have to get up and physically walk across the room to turn it off. Not only will this guarantee I get up, it will also ensure I don’t spend hours in bed scrolling through social media before getting some zzzz’s.

2. Start the Day with Apple Cider Vinegar:

I have been reading about the benefits of apple cider vinegar for years, and am finally jumping on the bandwagon. Not only is it supposed to lead to better digestion, more energy and more luminous skin, I’ve also heard it may lower blood sugar. I plan on mixing 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of natural fruit juice, and a packet of Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia Sweetener – Zero Calories to cut the vinegar flavor.

Since I am trying to incorporate more real foods in the morning, Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia is the perfect option. It’s a product I feel good about since it is a plant based sweetener with zero calories and no bitter aftertaste. It adds a delicious sweetness to virtually any recipe without the calories. I use it in this apple cider vinegar drink, my morning coffee, smoothies, oatmeal and even savory recipes.

3. Energize my mind OR body:

As much as I would love to find time to exercise every morning and take time to meditate or reflect, it’s just not going to happen. Instead of setting myself up to fail, this year I am going to use my extra thirty minutes in the morning to either energize my body or mind.

For my body that could mean a quick walk outside, a fitness video, or some time on the treadmill. When it comes to energizing my mind, there are three main things I will do: meditate (I use Headspace), reflect and plan (personal goals or business goals), or reading (usually focused on inspiration in business or my personal life).

4. Easy Breakfast On The Go:

One of my biggest goals this year is to make a healthier breakfast made with real ingredients a priority. Lately, I have been in the bad habit of pushing through the morning on nothing but coffee and a few handfuls of cereal. This inevitably leads to a late morning caffeine crash. Not this year.

In order to make this happen, I need to plan in advance and have some options ready to go in the fridge. That’s where these overnight oat smoothies come in! They are prepped in advance with whole grain oats, yogurt, almond milk, chia seeds, flax seeds, my favorite Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia Sweetener for sweetness, fruit and even some veggies.

The amazing thing about these overnight oat smoothies is that when morning rolls around, you have the option to either eat them as overnight oats or toss them in a blender for an on-the-go smoothie that will actually keep you full all morning long, thanks to the oats and yogurt. Personally, I almost always go with the smoothie option, since it’s a portable meal I can drink on the go.

Below you will find the base recipe for these tasty Overnight Oat Smoothies! Once you make the base, add any of these delicious flavor combinations or create your own!

Carrot Cake Overnight Oat Smoothie

Add ½ cup grated carrots, ½ cup pineapple, ½ tsp. cinnamon, pinch of nutmeg

Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oat Smoothie

Add ¾ cup strawberries, 1 tbsp cream cheese, extra Born Sweet Zing™ to taste depending on the sweetness of your fruit

Apple Pie Overnight Oat Smoothie

Add ¾ cup cooked apples (or raw), 1 tbsp almond butter, ½ tsp. cinnamon

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oat Smoothie

Add 1 chopped banana, 1 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tbsp. peanut butter. Optional: add 1 cup spinach

5. Coffee:

Now in my world, no morning routine would be complete without coffee. This year, to enhance this part of my daily ritual, I am planning on doing two things: First, I am going to add collagen to my morning coffee routine to boost digestion, add some extra protein, and give a boost to my hair and nails. Secondly, I am going use Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia Sweetener to sweeten my coffee without adding calories. Delicious tasting, added protein, no guilt. Win-win.

What does your morning routine look like?

One final routine tip: Since I almost always have at least one coffee or tea on the road during the day, I am planning on keeping some Born Sweet Zing™ single serve packets in my purse. Not only can I use them to sweeten up my coffee, I can see them saving me in lots of situations where I don’t have a lot of guilt-free sweetener options.

Want to try these recipes for yourself? Get a free sample of Born Sweet Zing™ Organic Stevia Sweetener – Zero Calories here!

Calories 304, Total Fat 7g, Total Carbohydrate 40g, Protein 19g, Serving Size 1 smoothie

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