Beginning to Blossom

It's been a long long time

2021-10-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

I realize I haven't posted anything on this blog for a while...languishing in the age of Covid I guess. I will post more in the coming days such as a renewed comitment to adhere to a stricter WFPB diet. I did lose 25 pounds a couple of years ago and would like to add to that.

Wish me luck. Not a lot of activity these days other than walking, going grocery shopping and the occasional Pilates class or visit to a local coffee shop...current fave Cafe 23 on Queen West.

The Only Cafe

2016-06-07T15:57:00.001-07:00

Courtesy of blogto.com ..I hope

This is my next stop on my Indie Coffee Passport Adventures - that dance card is almost full!

Is it a cafe? Is it a bar? Is it a juice bar? It's all three! I had a seat at the back patio on a lovely Friday and enjoyed a latte along with a scrumptious "Italian Job crepe - a slight nudge from the vegan bandwagon but it was so delicious it is worth any scorn or lambasting I may suffer. Mushroom, egg, cheese and their own homemade pesto. I ordered at the cafe bar (there is table service for brunch on weekends) Quite possibly one of the best I've ever had. Seriously.

I was also entertainment for a toddler who was very attracted to my colourful outfit as her mother pointed out. For adults there is musical entertainment in the evenings here. as well as a very very extensive beer selection...

They are located at 972 Danforth Avenue just east of Jones.

I also visited the Niagara Veg Fest this past weekend..the mildly inclement weather didn't discourage too many people, however, the line for Beechwood Donuts was much shorter and faster this year. We picked up Pina Colada, Carrot Cake, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookie and Pink Lemonade flavours..as always devastatingly good. We also sampled some Buffalo Wings from Rise Above, a Roasted Cauliflower, cheese samples (and purchases) from Nuts for Cheez and some delectable raw chocolate items - macaroons and a "snickers bar"...I neglected to note the name of the business.

Fashionwise I scored another Espe bag....mine is gray but I can't find a picture of it..needless to say they have lots of great colourful styles...I have my eye on a couple more...Espe.ca or on Facebook...wallets, key chains with flowers,cellphone holders etc. etc.

Redline Espresso and Field Trip

2016-05-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

(photo from BlogTo)

I am a little delayed in posting about my next two passport stamps on my Indie Coffee Passport. So here's the update...last week I went to Redline Espresso on Queen East...and I kind of wish they were in my neighbourhood..I guess that's what makes it special though is that you have to venture further afield!

It looks very unassuming from the outside but inside it's pure welcoming warmth. I think this is probably one of the best vibes I have ever experienced in a cafe. The staff were very friendly and obviously enjoy their work as one of the ladies was singing along to The Jackson Five and other Motown hits..

This is a neighbourhood which is in transition as they say, sitting near the corner of Queen and Parliament and in the ever evolving Corktown. Customers (who are greeted enthusiastically like long lost friends) run the gamut from newly resident hipsters with babies to those whose cup of joe is an opportunity for contact with human kindness and sadly quite possibly the best part of their day.. All are welcome. No attitude here. I could have sat here all day enjoying one of the oversized chairs to lounge in...enjoying my delicious cookie. Redline Espresso is located at 364 Queen Street East.

Today I ventured east along Bloor on a field trip to...Field Trip which is located at 3 Westmoreland Avenue just west of Ossington. It was a nice walk today from Bathurst subway station.

Again from BlogTo this photo
I sat oustide on this very spacious patio..which is quieter than the usual cafe patios because it is located off of Bloor on a side street. There was a very comfortable plastic molded armchair...which I should have taken a picture of!

Okay...the cafe...I was served by a Matthew Modine look a like (you kids can Google that or better yet watch the great "Married to the Mob" featuring not only Mr. Modine but Alec Baldwin, a hilarious Michelle Pfeiffer channeling Long Island housewife and Merces Ruehl) The iced latte with soy was great - they used Propeller beans and I also got a vegan Chocolate Cherry Muffin..which I have yet to consume...can't wait. They do all their own baking and prepare sandwiches or order as well as having some delicious ones pre-made.

They are also licensed and have an extensive indie beer list including Beau's Brewing on tap. Matthew 2 kindly pointed out when marvelling at the stamps I have collected on my passport, I should check out The Only on the Danforth as well - they are a cafe/bar/juice bar and have entertainment in the evenings. Currently Field Trip is only open until 8...hmmm you COULD have some afternoon jazz on the patio on a weekend though....

Again, it would be so nice to have this place in my 'hood. I would love it if someone would open a place with a patio further away from traffic i.e. in a house or something off a side street. I do realize however that real estate prices are a little steeper downtown.

Since I was in the neighbourhood I picked up a peanut butter and dark chocolate cookie and a raspberry donut from Bloomers as well as two slices of pizza from Apiecalypse Now...hey all this reviewing and exploring is hungry work! I got the Reunion Tour and Pepperphony. To balance things out I picked up some great deals (as always) at the Bloor Fruit Market (at Manning) on berries, green beans and King Oyster Mushrooms.

I still have a few more places to go..and now I am extra intrigued about The Only....

Further Indie Coffee Passport Adventures - around Roncesvalles/Parkdale

2016-05-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

Today I made further use of my Indie Coffee Passport and checked out a hidden gem on Golden Avenue - just off Dundas West near Howard Park Avenue at 35 Golden. It's a fun building housing some interesting offices - it sure would be fun to work there. I had a cappuccino here in the "common area" which features a long table, a couch and two comfy armchairs. There is a Soma roastery/factory in this complex which I believe used to manufacture uniforms in another life. It's located at the end of the street just before the railway tracks.

After some shopping on Roncesvalles I decided what the heck why not caffeinate some more? That meant checking out the Ideal Coffee location on Sorauren Avenue. (221 to be exact). I think this used to be a different business that has been taken over by the Ideal Coffee folks - it's all to the good...

This kind of gives you a rough idea of the space but its much bigger and warmer - there's even a patio and of course they make great coffee (roast their own) and treat their staff well! I had a delicious latte here and enjoyed a breeze from the open door and the conversation between the baristas but not the garbage truck that was making its' rounds. Ha.

I also used my passport at The Strong One on Wales Avenue in Kensington Market - I have blogged about them before. On Monday I was able to sit outside and use their patio for the first time....

R.I.P. Guy Clark who I had the pleasure of hearing on a few occasions at the Edmonton Folk Festival - such a talented singer/songwriter from the Lone Star State. "Homegrown Tomatoes" is one of my favourites...look it up on You Tube..or better yet check it out here....

Veggielicious!

2016-05-04T14:18:00.001-07:00

This annual feast...a veg take on the Winterlicious and Summerlicious Toronto prix fixe restaurant menu extravaganza was launched at an intimate lunch hour get together over at the 519 Community Centre on Church Street Community last Friday April 29th.

There were of course lots of wonderful nibbles and even beer! See Beau's Brewing Company below...I sampled two of their selections and they were hoppin delicious...The Farmtable I.P.A. and the Kissmeyer Nordic Pale Ale. Lots to share as they come in large bottles...

I did sample dessert first as in these delicious Apple Pie squares from Sweets from the Earth (one of my fave vegan baked goods purveyors). I also got to try their new Chocolate Almond Biscotti - which are gluten free and Coffee Cake muffins..

For something a little more substantial I filled out the beer and sugar with a salad from Kupfert and Kim, a butternut squash risotto and falafel from Fabarnak (right in the 519 Community Centre) building and an appetizer sampling from Taboule (which included hummous and a baby falafel). They also had an amazing rice pudding with rosewater and orange for dessert (that's part of their prix fixe offering).

I was a little busy eating so didn't take as many photos as I should..however you will be able to take photos of your own to your heart's content starting May 6 through the 22nd. There are many participating restaurants including Doug's Public Kitchen, Grasshopper, D'Beatstro, Bloomers, Free Times, Fresh, Lettuce Love...and on and on including restaurants not normally listed as veg. I think the Windsor Arms offering looks particularly tantalizing...so many places so little time.

Sponsored by Yamchops, Kupfert and Kim, Prairie Girl Baker, Tabule, Foodora and Beau's. Foodora...you won't even have to leave your house!

www.veggielicious.ca

2016-05-04T13:37:00.001-07:00

Indie Coffee Passport adventures

2016-04-22T14:49:00.001-07:00

When I was at our April meetup for Cafe Happy at Creeds on Dupont I decided to splurge and get an Indie Coffee Passport...which consists of 26 independent cafes in Toronto. You get your passport "stamped" at each place and they have a list of offerings including cappucinos or lattes or even the special drinks of the house..the passport costs $28 plus tax and is well worth it! It also gets one out exploring neighbourhoods you wouldn't normally visit and even discover cafes that your might have overlooked in your own 'hood! The program operates in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Chicago, Washington, Vermont and East Bay.

By the way Creeds features lots of snacks and even vegan meals from Yamchops! It's a huge space with a dry cleaning business at the back so if you need to host a big event/meetup and get some drycleaning done at the same time..Bob's your uncle.

One of the first cafe lands I journeyed to was at 1691 Dundas Street West sometimes known as Brockton Village...the Cygnet. It is charming and cozy and faces a beautiful church across the street...

I had a house made mint Matcha which they kindly allowed me ...a little off menu because I am always excited about places that offer Matcha lattes!

I also sampled a delicious Almond and Matcha cookie..they have lots of great baked goods...I felt that the walk from King and Bathurst justified this..ha ha. Photos are from BlogTo.com

On my way back I stopped in at Tucana which is a bite sized takeout spot at 1413 Dundas Street West..they have vegan cookies...yumm....great latte too.

Tucana Coffee

Sufficiently caffeinated for one day I left my new explorations for a few days...to one of my fave spots which I have written about before - Fika in Kensington Market. Because the weather has finally decided to become more spring like I could also enjoy the back patio..one of the areas not so hidden gems anymore. Not to worry because there's space inside and also a front deck! Always great music selections and dangerously good baked items...with cool staff. Look for the teal green house on Kensington Avenue

Yesterday it was the Coffee Bar Inc on Front Street (346 Front St. West). The staff and I think perhaps the owner was super friendly and made me a Velvet Latte which is the specialite de la maison. They have a private upstairs seating area which apparently is used by visiting celebrities (such as Will Smith and the Bieber) who venture over from Soho on Wellington so they can relax, chat and not be harassed/gawked at...

As you can see they do amazing coffee art too...and take pride in their coffee. The person I was chatting with said she has had a Indie passport for the past two years as well and had been less than impressed with some places (no longer in business big surprise) She took a couple of sips and in those cases promptly and discreetly poured it out after she left the premises. I understand completely ...I visited a place south of my residence amongst the new condo developments on Lakeshore and sheepishly ducked out leaving my full latte on the table. I also an atypically less than stellar experience yesterday at a certain French cafe in the Thompson hotel with tea...it was quite frankly weak and flavourless..perhaps they know how to do coffee better than tea. I now understand Brits frustration with getting a good cuppa abroad. New rule: from now on let people know you are disappointed in a good polite Canadian way!

Back to the Coffee Bar... great choice if you're on your way to or from a ball game. I was on my way to the Ripley's Aquarium...although I felt very guilty about going there with all the imprisoned fish I must confess it was secretly thrilling to watch sharks swim overhead along with manta rays and sea turtles...plus one of my faves..seahorses! I could watch the graceful undulations of flounder for ages - their bodies move like the ruffles on a flamenco dress...

5 down only 21 to go..

The Strong One in Kensington Market

2016-03-08T17:17:00.001-08:00

This beautiful (and scrumptious) cake was purchased at The Strong One in Kensington Market - it had apple cider/and chai flavouring with maple frosting featuring rosebuds on top as decoration..plus is was vegan, people..soo moist !

Picking up my thread of trying out new cafes this is one that had somehow escaped my radar even though I regularly visit the Market!

I had a fabulous Lavender Honey Latte as well..they have lots of their own home baking including "hand pies", cookies and treats and prepare sandwiches with freshly baked croissants or vegan wraps. They have a nice selection of special drinks - both coffee and teas.

It's very cosy and bright - with fun cushions covers sewn b the owner's mother featuring medieval tapestries with unicorns and images of the Brontes. I look forward to coming here in the warmer weather and sitting out front..my Cafe Happy meetup group would like it as they have a sign on the front that says "Coffee Makes You Happy". They also have another cafe on College called The Empire.

Oh I should also mention the barista was playing interesting music on a turntable..someone named Johnny Rigo and..taking me back to my teens - Elvis Costello!! 68 Wales Avenue..tucked in behind the hospital emergency entrance.

Also on a foodie note..we tried out D'Beatstro on Bloor on Sunday and it was delicious - one of the best tofu scrams I've had..french toast and great home fries..their home baked beans were fun too. I had the French Toast and F had the Gluten Free Breakfast. They even make their own vegan sausages...nice to find another vegan brunch spot. Looks like a yummy selection of baked goods as well..however we were full and after walking for a bit got a Cowboy Cookie and brownie from Bloomer's instead..next time!

Pulse Feast

2016-01-07T12:55:00.001-08:00

Because I sometimes have entries on food..I must be on the radar for some event organizers..I was surprised to receive an invite for this event back in December. It was held at the Design Exchange on Bay...

Guests could help themselves to these big bags of beans, lentils and peas..while being educated as to how great pulses are - which those of us in the veg community already know since it's a major protein source for us..

They provided nice cloth drawstring bags to take home your goodies..plus a goody bag with roasted chickpeas, pea flour and a brownie mix...with romano bean flour.

There were 3 vegan dishes available too which were yummy..(I checked before going and the contact person promptly assured me there would be a trio of vegan dishes).

The crepes were especially tasty...

This lentil dahl was vegetarian with yogourt on top..

I guess one thing puzzled me though - although I give points for considering vegans I had to wonder why the whole event couldn't have been vegetarian as it would have provided a great showcase for legumes and I'm sure with many fine chefs working they could have come up with even more great vegan dishes...

Just by reading the displays they outline all the benefits of eating pulses - how good they are for you in terms of protein and fibre, how environmentally responsible it is to grow them - getting much better bang for the buck than animal agriculture and how easily they can be grown in many places..not to mention how many delicious ways you can prepare them.

This is after all the "Year of the Pulse"...

Constantinople

2015-12-03T10:52:00.003-08:00

First, before I get to my latest cafe find I must tell you about my visit to the One of a Kind show yesterday...where I spent 4 hours!? I had only intended to go for two..but it is huge..

I met the designer of this gorgeous outfit - her company is called "Metamorphose" from Montreal - it's her first time at the show. Her name is Karine Demers and she is delightful..her style is right up my alley - feminine and gorgeous - lots of flower prints..this two piece outfit which I couldn't resist buying is amazing. The fabric on the skirt is a mix of stretch on the section and some kind of soft waxed cotton on the floral part - you have to feel it to believe it..it's called "Clara". Very unique clothing and oh so cutting edge chic - what we expect from Montrealers...there are also kids outfits.

http://www.creationsmetamorphose.com/en/info

Now to coffee - this relatively new cafe - Constantinople Bakery and Cafe has been on Queen West near Bathurst for a few months but I have only discovered it recently. I think it's the urge to hibernate which has lead to these new cafe discoveries! It's Turkish themed with lots of space - a great spot for meetups. There are Turkish delicacies - they do a lot of their own baked goods, soups, sandwiches and even have chocolate for sale...I bought some chocolate covered pistachios which are "scrummy" to use Mary's phrase from the "Great British Baking Show". I don't know about you but I have never encountered chocolate covered pistachios before - every other kind of nut, yes..

If you order traditional Turkish coffee they serve it with Turkish delight. Staff are welcoming and accommodating.

Cocoa Latte, Rooster and Green

2015-11-16T21:03:00.002-08:00

Continuing with exploring cafes outside my immediate neighbourhood, last week I checked out three places that were new to me

First up was Cocoa Latte on St. Clair - the photo above is from blogto.com - a great source for restaurant reviews. I initially had gone up there to visit the new Mandala Designs shop - I love the clothes that I buy at Fresh Collective..however, they were closed on Monday and Tuesday which is when I ventured up there..no matter...on a cloudy day refuge in a cafe was in order and merely wandering St. Clair was interesting.

I was looking for another cafe called Krave Coffee but it was very busy with no seats! Oh well...time to check out another pick..Cocoa Latte. I enjoyed a table at the front of this cozy place a delicious latte and a roasted cauliflower soup and side salad. They also have vegan treats from Sweets From the Earth.

The following day, Remembrance Day it was over to 479 Broadview to visit the celebrated Rooster Coffee House at the edge of Riverdale. It too was extremely popular and very full inside..I noticed that they had a few comfy chairs always a plus with me. Fortunately it was warm enough to sit outside and enjoy the parade of dogs and their companions who stopped in to the cafe. Here I enjoyed a Matcha Latte - good. They also have a new location on 343 King Sreet East at Jarvis... roostercoffeehouse.com

You also get a great view of downtown Toronto and the park across the street...

Finally my favourite discovery came after my Book and Brunch meetup at Old School on Dundas. I wandered up to check out Green Grind on College which was my favourite find of the week..extensive menu cozy chairs and environmentally responsible! I will be back. I noticed they had french doors which are likely opened in warmer weather too..

www.thegreengrind.ca

Comfy chairs!

Bean and Baker Malt Shop

2015-11-09T13:46:00.001-08:00

Recently I have decided that perhaps I am in a cafe rut - just going a few blocks to my fave places in the King and Queen West neighbourhood so I ventured a little further north to this very cool retro shop/ Yes, you can get ice cream (they have Coconut Bliss for vegans!) and malts along with coffee, tea ,cocoa, baked goods, soup and sandwiches - while feeling you are travelling back in time. The soups sounded good too as I heard them describing the rotation including tomato split pea and minestrone.

The staff are even dressed to the period and the music is also nostalgic. The owner has a history in the coffee and spice business and his wife is a pastry chef. The red stools and chairs and tables make me regret losing my old set - at the time it was 30 years old and still going strong. I asked the owner about them and there is a distributor in Cambridge that sources them from a place in the U.S. Midwest - made in America! I believe it's called "Nostaligia Inc".

The spot is at the corner of Harbord and Grace and is bright and cheerful - my soy latte was great and I had a cookie and a vegan pie to go...I'll be back.

Proud to be Canadian again!

2015-10-20T14:47:00.001-07:00

After 9 long years of a punitive, anti-science, anti-arts, anti-healthcare, anti-immigration and just about anything else you could name we as Canadians rewarded the Liberals for offering a positive message during the election - one of hope and caring! It was wonderful to see the results of a non mud-slinging, positive campaign led by Justin Trudeau bear fruit. There was a lot of scepticism about his leadership but he proved himself by bringing the party back from the brink of oblivion.

Photo taken from the NYT website via Reuters.

Throughout the campaign the Conservatives ran ads that said Trudeau was "just not ready"...well it seems the population was indeed ready for Mr. Trudeau and to dump Mr. Harper - the robot that almost seems human. It is my sincere hope that we can take our place in the world stage again as peacemakers, environmentalists and all around polite and caring individuals.

Congratulations Mr. Trudeau - I'm sure your dad would be proud.

Nerja, Ronda, Sevilla, Merida, Madrid

2015-10-13T14:13:00.002-07:00

View from the end of the "Balcon de Europa"

As promised my final installment (!) of our journey to the beautiful land of Spain. After leaving Granada behind it was time to venture to the famous "Costa del Sol" - Sunshine Coast which is very popular with tourists and Brits in particular...it's easy to see why...


View from our hotel room - the other direction

Once again, we stayed at a Rick Steves recommended hotel which is was bright and spacious and perfectly located on the "Balcon de Europa". Fraser noticed how things had changed in the time he had been there with his sister Marilyn back in the 80s. Apparently post Franco as torrid Spanish soap opera set in Nerja popularized the area from a more sleepy place. We had a devil of a time trying to figure out where to park the car...for future reference - park it in the open lot nearest the area and walk in - it's not far unless you have an unseemly amount of luggage.

We enjoyed a lovely dinner at an Indian restaurant - they were very very accomodating and the next morning a "full English" at the Coach and Horses..complete with veg sausage. Other than that we enjoyed a leisurely stroll around..

Our hotel

Shopping on one of the side streets


Trying to make friends... Enjoying the full English

Clever awnings to keep the sun out...too soon it was time to head inland to one of the many charming hill towns of Andalusia - in our case Ronda.

There was someone playing flamenco guitar here..

The enormous cacti...

Speaking of flamenco it was time to visit "flamenco central" - Seville!

Because cars aren't allowed in the old quarter we parked ours in an underground parkade and walked in with our bags...this is our hotel...

It had the most complicated shower instructions we had ever seen and in the end you only needed two knobs!

Oh well, it makes for an interesting story anyway...off to enjoy wandering the streets of the old Jewish quarter.

We noticed groups of small children walking along with their families, dressed up and carrying these wooden boxes or rather pushing them...I guess we should have asked what it was all about...so if anyone knows...

Thanks to Happy Cow after wandering around the streets for a bit we enjoyed dinner atVantana

On our way through the neighbourhoods there was a lady handing out flyers for a flamenco show. According to our guru Rick Steves it's much better to go to these small performance spaces than the usual tourist traps with a 2 drink minimum that last for 2 hours. We decided to make a reservation for the next night..

A small selection of the amazing archctecture there..modern and historic...

We decided to check out Veganitessen - which is located in a farmer's market for lunch...

I think we had some sort of sandwich and of course dessert - a banana based one which was yummy. The market seemed sadly, kind of barren - lots of empty stalls - I'm sure due to the economy.

Some photos of more of our wanderings near the river..

This fellow was handing out, what else in Spain, olive samples...

How nice there was a lovely park just outside the quarter with these amazing purple flowering trees - I should really find out what they were...by the way it was fairly hot during our time in Seville...

A lovely tiled bench

The famous and famously bitter Seville oranges....great for marmalade!

Ole - Flamenco time

There was a male and female dancer, a singer and guitarist. The walls of the space were beautiful even and the show was captivating and perfect! It was called Auditorio Alvarez Quintero.

We had a Mediterranean dinner at a sidewalk cafe not far away and I was a little ambitious on drinking a glass of wine and THEN Sangria - needless to say I had to have an espresso afterwards so I could remain upright...

Time to leave lovely Sevilla - also a great place to purchase fans and souvenirs - even miniature flamenco dresses for girls! Now onto Merida - a halfway point on our final destination Madrid. Merida is known for its Roman ruins..some of the finest we've seen. It was a sleepy Sunday..

We stayed at a charming centrally located hotel Hotel Rambla Emerida which overlooked a park - from there it was a short stroll over to the main site of the Amphitheatre but en route there were some sites to see as well..

There were very few tourists around this well preserved site - we practically had it to ourselves. Not many shops were open either with it being a Sunday..we did find a veg place though for a meal..

Lovely garden at the Roman site


A cetnral square in Merida Enjoying our lunch at the Shangri La restaurant -note the ever present glass of Sangria!

A restful Sunday and off to Madrid the next day - our final stop. F dropped off the car and first me at the Atocha Hotel which was very nice - we had a huge room on the main floor. I am a big fan of coffee vending machines in Spain - you can get great cups of coffee from them - they had two in the lobby of the hotel.

Off to wander around Madrid - we had last been here over twenty years ago! So we had to revisit the Prado and Reina Sofia museums and just generally wander around the amazing city that is Madrid! Of course we had to sample some veg food as well and went to the fabulous Yerbabuena!

That is the proprietor in the background - he is so charming and hard working...the food is delicious and silly us we should have shared a Menu del Dia between us...way too much food and it was a shame we couldn't finish it all - we even had dessert! Highly recommended...there was also a new vegan restaurant across the street - brand new Al Natural- buffet style and you could get it to go...sorry we didn't go that for our trip back to Canada..but we did enjoy a light supper there after our lunchtime feast! They hooked us on the street by handing out free and delicious vegan croquettes!

A walk in Retiro Park to burn off some of those calories...we didn't see any of the crazy tufted earred squirrels that were so assertive the last time we were here...

Adios Espana...we left all too soon....

I am not sure but this may be the exterior of our hotel....we stayed at Atoch hotels and Barcelona and Madrid - very nice!

Scotland is Sexy

2015-07-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

I had a sudden revelation today as to how many of my current celebrity crushes these days have Scottish accents! I used to find English accents very attractive but now ihanks to the sudden influx of sexy Scottish actors on television (and film) these days that has certainly changed.

Whereas in times past, romance was represented by those perennial objects of feminine ardor - the sophisticated French and Italians and hey don't forget the Spanish (see Antonio Banderas and Javier Bardem)...the land of my forefathers is getting it's due. Perhaps it may have something to do with kilts as in the hit series "Outlander"? Or that Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan) is very dishy, manly and protective? Plus, all those gorgeous scenes of the Highlands don't hurt. Maybe I am drawn to the land of my ancestors....

In one of the episodes another of my favourite Scottish dishes showed up - Doug Henshall - who I adore from the "Shetland" series....

Now there is yet another Scottish fixation - from the PBS series "The Crimson Field"! The dashing field doctor Captain Thomas Gillan is played by actor Richard Rankin. How can I stand any more Scottish sexiness?

If you are inclined for more mind nourishing pursuits and non fiction I also recommend any series such as "Coast" or dare I say it the "History of Scotland" with another hottie - Neil Oliver! Not only a presenter but historian, archaeologist, author and adventurer.

Also I should mention another obsession - the mysterious and compelling Ross Poldark as portrayed by Aidan Turner - yes, he is Irish..but hey he is still Celtic...even though he sports an English accent...I guess I haven't quite given up my first love..:)

Honourable mentions to David Tennant, Ian Glenn. These gentlemen are truly the "Flower of Scotland".

Vegan Everyday by Doug McNish

2015-07-20T15:01:00.001-07:00

Oh dear, it has been so long since I've posted anything and I am long overdue to tell you about this wonderful new cookbook by one of my favourite chefs and people - our Toronto treasure Doug McNish. I also have two previous books of his " Eat Raw, Eat Well "(which is an encyclopaedia of raw food recipes) and "Raw, Quick and Delicious"...great additions to your cookbook library.

Now, it must be said I didn't think to take photos of the recipes I tried out from this new book however, even without evidence I can tell you they were delicious! Knowing me I tried out a couple of dessert recipes first..."The Chocolate Cherry Dream Bars" - which lived up to their name and the "White Chocolate Macadmia Cookies" - heavenly!!

It was time to try out a main dish and the "Sweet and Sour Tofu" was both easy and scrumptious". The "Pan Seared KIng Oyster Mushrooms with Tamari Glaze" made me feel I was in a fine dining establishment - I can't tell you how much I love King Oyster mushrooms at any time - I could have made a double order and eaten it all with some steamed brown rice! Again, the recipe was simple - the only adjustment I made was not including fresh thyme - since I didn't have any on hand. I can't wait to try out some more recipes...

Milano Espresso Bar

2015-03-02T13:12:00.003-08:00

(Image courtesy of yelp.ca)

Thanks to a feed from Toronto Life I read about this new coffee spot on Adelaide Street West near John..it's got a cozy but chic modern Italian vibe and the staff are very friendly - the person who served me was from Vancouver. That is him in the beige sweater!

This morning as I enjoyed my creamy soy latte I felt transplanted to Italy as he conversed in Italian with a older gentleman. They also do teas including Matcha Lattes and London Fogs. The beans are imported from their Vancouver location and are also available for sale with detailed descriptions. Plus, sandwiches, pastries and I believe even soup...a welcome addition to the coffee scene in Toronto.

If you a very serious espresso drinker they even have "tastings" - a flight of 3 espressos and I was told their award winning espresso master Brian Turko is coming to town.

267 Adelaide Street West. www.milanocoffee.ca

Right next door it was high time to visit the Superfoods bar for a healthy lunch including a Skyrocket Salad and Coming Attraction juice..I don't know why I forget about this great little place when looking for vegan lunch - this was a good reminder..plus again the staff are very warm and welcoming. I also picked up some granola...

2014-02-20T14:03:00.001-08:00

Bet I had you at "chocolate" right? I was privileged to receive a sample box of these new treats. Already a big fan of their regular chocolate I couldn't wait to try a new dimension in confections.

I particularly enjoyed the Almond Creme one and am now enjoying the Sea Salt and Lime - salty and tart! The Lavender Mint is delightful and of course Coconut is luscious. Raspberry and Orange - a perfect combination. I have yet to try the Blueberry Vanilla - oh the sacrifices I make for you! 6 flavours in all. The cocoa content is a healthy 72%.

Now in case you didn't know - this company donates 10% of proceeds to help non profit groups worldwide - yup - save Endangered Species. Not only that people these bars are VEGAN! They are also : gluten free, non GMO, ethically traded, rainforest certified and use sustainable palm oil. You can also learn about the animals featured on the packages on the inside while you're enjoying the goodies. For example the Red Panda is one the Raspberry Orange and a Lemur on the Coconut. My husband Fraser has kindly volunteered to review the bars..ha ha.

Remember people chocolate is good for you and good for your soul.

First Blush of Spring - Guerlain Spring 2014

2014-01-27T11:44:00.002-08:00

Yes, I said it..the "S" word - even though it seems very far away from my current reality of the land of ice and snow, I decided I needed a little colour lift and wandered into my local Shoppers at King and John to see if any of the luxurious French lines had sprouted their spring flowers and I was happy to see the new Guerlain colours touting pink and peach for lips and cheeks and lovely pastels in eye shadows. The line is called, ahem appropriately enough "Les Meteorites" Blossom Collection - I was particularly taken with their new blushes...a soft peachy pink called Pink Champagne and a deeper tone - "Cherry Soda" more full bodied one...(I bought the lighter shade). Was someone thirsty while naming these? LOL. The texture is silky and easy to apply directly on the cheeks by dotting as the aesthetician explained to me and blending. Fantastique!

There is also a lovely palette of eyeshadows, Les Tendres Ecrin - super sheer, feather light and very wearable. It includes a shimmery beige, minty green, subdued plum and taupe shade.

Naturellement I needed - well okay wanted a co-ordinating lipstick and I chose the #171 Attrape Coeur and am eyeing the beautiful iridescent gloss "Stardust" - that will be hard to resist since it's also one of my favourite tunes...there is also a matching nail polish. The deeper pink shade is called "Insolence" and is also lovely.

Of course there are the lovely multi coloured magic spheres of luminessence the namesake "Meteorites"...which many have tried to duplicate but which I feel Guerlain does best..

So venture out into the cold and get yourself a little burst of Le Printemps.

Why We Are Here

2013-11-14T13:12:00.002-08:00

I participated in a fun experiment on Tuesday night - not a scientific but artistic one..presented by Nightswimming Theatre. It involves an impromptu community choir and is moving around each week to a new Toronto location. On Tuesday night it happened to be in the lovely Trinity St. Paul's church on Bloor - home of Tafelmusick...they have also been renovating the space and it was lovely to participate. A fun way to spend an evening for a mere $15 or PWYC..emphasis on the PWYC.

At first I felt a little like an outsider since many of the folks who showed up seemed to know each other..and don't worry you don't need choral experience to join. After a few vocal excercises, led by the conductor that evening - whose name I didn't catch sorry - save to say she also conducts choral groups at Miles Nadal Community Centre down the street - we dove into the first piece - a "morning song" in Ojibway! Jane, our native liason led us through the pronunciation and how the piece would have been sung..much more nasal. Since the theme for the evenings is "Why We Are Here", the property the church stands on was of course forested like much of Toronto prior to European arrival. Did you know that Dundas was a hunting/walking trail?

After the break - it seems to be a universal tradition that there must be snacks at choir rehearsals - we moved onto a Resistance piece in Yiddish called "The Hour Strikes"! We got into the spirit of the piece marching around and greeting each other and urging via eye contact and touch to join! You can check out their Facebook page...and maybe come out to the next rehearsal...

This week was one for branching out as I also attended the Spiritual Shift Cafe last night. Organized by Steve these weekly sessions at Timothy's World Coffee at 2098 Yonge explore great themes around the Law of Attraction and they're interactive. Last night's was "Creating Your Ideal Life" so we had to come up with what that meant to us and for some of the attendees put that intention out there. There were a few people who had very clear ideas and were well on the way. I of course am a work in progress but it was good to be reminded that the things we enjoyed doing as children - wanted to do and not felt we should do -can bring us closer to that realization. Concentrate on what we love to do that is to say. He runs a few other Meetup groups around similiar themes. Lots of food for thought that 's for sure. It's nice to be part of a like minded group.

This colour is called Kelly - the one I chose a beautiful grey!

In a bizarre segue - which I am known for - I chose to explore a new beauty salon - Sekai on Queen Street West - just west of Shaw for a mani/pedi. It's a lovely clean space, the owners very friendly and great service - they believe in carrying lines which are more body and environment friendly - using Zoya nail polish, Primavera skin care and one of my favourite lines - LoveFresh - a Toronto based company making delicious sugar scrubs and body moisturizers. They offer the usual esthetic services - mani/pedi, facials and even do wash and blow outs.

Cape Breton Sojourn

2013-10-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

Fall colours

The Cabot Trail - wild and windy!

I had a brief journey to Cape Breton last week, joined by my siblings Colin, Kathleen - pictured in blue above - and Alan. Alan made all the arrangement for us - it was our dad's wish that his ashes be scattered in the Atlantic, after all he was a Cape Bretoner, born in Murray and spending most of his youth in the Margaree Valley. Our mom's ashes were also scattered as they were united once again - she being of course from Belfast. It was a lovely day after a couple of very windy ones - we weren't sure we were going to be able to make the trip out in the boat. Many thanks to Bird Island Tours.

Colin with the flag...
Kathleen - in blue - and I taking our turns scattering the ashes.

That's our cousin Virgina..she and Rick were wonderful hosts.

A view from out on the water...

It was great to spend time with my siblings even though part of our reason for being together was a sad one. We did manage to enjoy the spectacular Cabot Trail and being near the ocean - our hotel, the Cambridge Suites was right in the Sydney Harbour.

Our cousin Virginia took this one...

That is Whisper, a border collie pup - full of energy!

I was surprised at how easy it was to get veg options in places - we ate lunch at a place called the Rusty Anchor - I know it doesn't sound like it will have those things on the menu does it? But they had a chickpea salad sandwich and tasty homemade veggie soup. Things have changed since I was last out there about 10 years ago...they even know what vegans are and some places advertise gluten free...wow. Guess they figure they need to cater to the tourist traffic...it was an amazing drive as always.

This is the view from where our dad and siblings were born and grew up...there were some boards and bricks left from the site -we each took a little reminder.

We stopped for lunch at the Cedar Lodge and lo and behold there was the Great Pumpkin in the parking lot!

Next post - I get to meet the Long Island Medium!

L'Occitane en Provence and other pretty things

2013-09-28T17:59:00.001-07:00

I have been enjoying trying out some of the "Imortelle Divine" line from L'Occitane as I always enjoy checking out new beauty and skincare. I had a mini facial with their cleansing foam, new lotion (pictured below) - kind of like a toner but creamier, the extract and cream. The products have been getting some rave reviews - I am really liking the eye cream the "regard divin". I find many of their products delicious smelling - I have the Almond Oil Shower Oil and the Shea Ultra Rich Scrub - very creamy.

I also splurged on their Brightening lotion - which has an SPF of 40, is very light and does indeed brighten your complexion - you may not even want to put make up on or mix it with your foundation.

I also got a sample of their Repairing Conditioner which smells lovely and works wonderfully...can't wait to try out more products.. They are also generous with sampling - always a bonus for me as I do like to try things out before investing in them.

This week has been girly girl week it seems - I also got a couple of new lip colours for fall - one is from one my favourite lines - Guerlain. It's from the Fall collection of lipsticks - Madame Reve - a lovely bright pink.

The other shades are Madame Batifole - more intense fuchsia and a sheer reddish shade Madame Flirte. The glosses also look lovely as does the blush palette.
You can select from a section or sweep over the whole lot ..it goes on very sheer - not as frightening as you might expect - there is a brush included in the compact. As always - great colours and beautiful presentation. It helped that there was a 20% off promotion and my King and Peter Shoppers Drug Mart as well! Love that. I do love being able to use my points as well - probably the best reward program going...

I also visited Sephora and picked up a gloss in the new Marc Jacobs line...

A great grape-y/berry colour for fall - gorgeous looking products. The gloss is beautiful.

Also because I adore French cosmetics an Yves St. Laurent lipstick:

It's Rouge Volupte Sheer Candy - the shade is Sweet Fig - which is called red - but it's pretty neutral. I was also eyeing the Sheer Berry. I love the texture of these - very moisture rich.

Speaking of candy and specifically eye candy - I was just watching some of the latest version of the "Great Gatsby" . I say some of it because it is loud and cartoonish - using rap/ hip- hop and very little of the music of that era - not really my vision of what the movie version of this classic novel could and should be. For me I find the music really sets the mood - I guess it's an attempt to connect with the young folks. Whatever. Nothing wrong with educating them as to how the era actually sounded. I found it very over the top and grew quickly annoyed with the visuals - and that's saying something for a person who loves films like "Pee Wee's Big Adventure" and "Edward Scissorhands" - yes, I do love Tim Burton's work. There seemed to be this constant bombardment of "look how busy and colourful I can make this scene" - pay no attention to the characters, plot or dialogue. I also realize I'm not a Baz Luhrmann fan - I couldn't stand Moulin Rouge. Closer to the mark for me - although still flawed was the 1970s era version with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow - better casting for Daisy as the unattainable object of desire. I believe Gatsby should be played much more enigmatic and mysterious - more of a Don Draper really than ex college frat boy.

I do have a couple of things PVR'd - "V for Vendetta" and some "Castle" plus some "Scott and Bailey" - a great British crime drama.

Looking forward to checking out the new vegan bakery on Bloor and Lansdowne tomorrow "Through Being Cool"....1277 Bloor Street West. There may be pictures....

Fika Cafe and Mamma's Pizza

2013-09-19T11:30:00.002-07:00

You wouldn't think those things could be related and they aren't really other than they are two new discoveries I have made. I am always on the look out for new cafes and especially ones that are comfortable places to enjoy a good read.

Fika Cafe is a charming Scandinavian themed place in Kensington Market. It has the usual clean lines you would expect - a front and back patio - and delicious coffee. I had a cardamom one - soooo yummy. They offer a variety of beverages, snacks and lunch items including treats and salads. There are little ginger cookies in the shape of horse.
It's charming!

I do seem to have this thing for Scandinavian themed places as I love Thor Espresso Bar as well.

They are on 28 Kensington Avenue - www.fika.ca

As for Mamma's Pizza - in case you didn't know they now offer 3 vegan selections with Daiya Cheese. I picked up a couple of slices for the hubby and I last week - OMG!! I went with the Primavera - next time I will be more adventurous with the Spicy Vegan - they also offer Olive Press which has potatoes on it. I can't wait to try all three! Please support this bold decision. I also like that if you are ordering a pizza you can get whole wheat or gluten free (in the 12 inch size).One more sign that the new age of enlightenment is here...

Primavera

Olive Press

Spicy

I would really love to know what prompted them to make the change...any other chains out there taking notice?

A visit to the Farm

2013-09-17T20:07:00.000-07:00

On Sunday a few of us ventured out to Ted Thorpe's Organic Farm - he is one of the farmers who come to Trinity Bellwoods Market - I'm sure you've seen Ted around town with his halo of curly white hair. I think he also supplies a number of stores and restaurants - I know I've seen him at 4 Life in Kensington and Feel Good Guru as well as at Dufferin Grove market.

It's a wonderful spot and on Sundays he has his own market - selling veggies and fruit, all kinds of delicious edibles and at 1 p.m. grab a hay bale or chair/couch and listen to some music.

Carolyn Wong our amazing TBFM organizer took the photos - amazing.

Amazing cabbage!

Going for a ride.
Here we are enjoying the music....

Dragonflies

2013-09-13T11:29:00.001-07:00

A little creature just like this one was hanging around me while I was downstairs in our courtyard reading yesterday. It landed on the pink ballet shoes that I had set beside the lounge chair and even on the chair itself down near my feet.

Intrigued I looked up some meanings for dragonfly sightings and lore. Some say it is a sign of transformation and good luck or that it means to pay attention to the present moment as these insects themselves have such brief lives. According to native mythology the dragonfly has shape shifting properties - hence back to transformation or a least some lovely magic. I do admire them and have for the longest time - it was great watching them in the skies at Folk Fest this August.

Another particularly charming interpretation is that dragonflies are connected to the faerie realm - and in fact may be fairies themselves if you look at them the right way. I also, of course, adore fairies.

I am most pleased with the transformation aspect as it is where I am on my journey - heck, it's even the name of my blog. Whatever the meaning, I can admire the beautiful, iridescent and elegant dragonfly for itself.