tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2275396652240645892026-03-24T06:27:34.310-07:00Living life to its fullest with vegan food, photography, and travelKim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.comBlogger621125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-88789261208638085342018-05-29T05:00:00.000-07:002024-06-21T22:21:14.461-07:00

Teenagers love mac n cheese, right?  Well, for that matter people of any age.  So you can imagine the dismay when my 14-year old son suddenly developed lactose intolerance... not just the normal kind where you take a pill and eat what you want, but a severe form that has left him dairy-free ever since. Mostly he missed pizza.  And tacos with chipotle white sauce.  And

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-60257297532415386502018-04-23T06:00:00.000-07:002018-05-11T16:12:58.941-07:00

Blueberry smoothies seem to be a staple in just about every smoothie shop you enter, and for good reason - most everyone loves a blueberry! According to Dr. Greger of NutritionFacts.Org, one should be including at least one serving of berries in their diet per day.  And with a fiber-rich profile, blueberries and their Vitamin C and Manganese content seem to be a good one to add.

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-32189448043624758682018-03-15T13:16:00.000-07:002018-03-15T13:16:44.164-07:00

Overnight oats may be past trend, but they've become a staple in my house.  Easy for a quick breakfast on the run, tasty for a mid-afternoon snack, but most of all - perfect for the dorm room. With simple ingredients mixed together the night (or a few nights) prior one can enjoy a healthy and easy breakfast that far supersedes any smooshy oatmeal from the college dining commons.

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-35734287340278073762018-03-12T19:08:00.000-07:002018-03-13T12:20:40.896-07:00

Life, it has a way of showing us the path we're meant to follow.  It's not always the path we think we should be on, but nonetheless, it is our path. The last two years have pushed my little Liv Life space to the side as family took priority.  In those years we've lost both of my in-laws, an aunt, an uncle and our dog.  We've learned that hospice can be a bright spot in a

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-46956335097210520452017-10-27T20:28:00.000-07:002018-01-29T19:56:33.617-08:00

Oh Banana Bread... how we love you!  Since the kids were babies, Banana Bread of all sorts has been not only a staple in our kitchen but also a vehicle to pump healthy ingredients into the kids without them really knowing it. I've gone so far as to add spinach and avocado to recipes (with success I might add!), but we keep returning to an old favorite recipe (and spinach-free version..

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-19455081813878919952017-10-19T12:51:00.000-07:002018-01-29T19:56:05.173-08:00

Setting off on vacation a few weeks ago I tucked a couple travel-sized 2 oz jars of Skinny Coconut Oil products into my suitcase.  Skinny & Company sent me a few travel-sized products to review, and I agreed to social media (if we liked them) in return.  Asking Liv if she and her friend would give the products a try and perhaps help compose a photo or two (they are instagram

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-31455112432125803812017-10-02T11:06:00.000-07:002018-01-29T19:57:32.940-08:00

Three weeks of vacation - pure, wonderful, indulgent vacation - has left me in somewhat of a food coma and ready for fresh, revitalizing foods.  Which brings me directly to today's Blueberry Lime Cooler recipe.   Light and refreshing, I've prepared this minty drink for the last three days and have found it an ideal "get me going" drink on sluggish jet lagged mornings. Filled

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-82322075977336091762017-09-28T21:27:00.000-07:002018-01-29T20:05:32.143-08:00

Being a food blogger sometimes comes with benefits.  Take for instance the mail day that brought a Mockmill Stone Mill to my kitchen! Within minutes of opening the box we had freshly ground, aromatic whole wheat flour begging to be used.  And use it we did as we set to whipping up some of the tastiest Homemade Whole Wheat Pitas we've ever had (see below for recipe). Grind your

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-20424320708480066912017-07-03T14:38:00.000-07:002018-01-29T20:00:08.383-08:00

Coconut... it's everywhere these days, isn't it?  We've all seen the coco-water craze, and personally I'm obsessed with the oil and manna (manna dollop on oatmeal anyone?).  But Coconut Balsamic?  Ohhh, yes indeed. Last weekend I attended a local food festival, North Eats, in Carlsbad, CA.  Showcasing some 25+ local North County San Diego restaurants (Blue Ribbon, Local

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-10714817667988437172017-06-14T20:46:00.000-07:002018-01-29T20:00:47.502-08:00

Ahhh scones... the epitome of afternoon tea.  I carry vivid memories of my very first tender biscuit (some 30 years ago!) served with traditional clotted cream and a side of homemade apricot jam whilst visiting the South of England - Devon to be exact.  And while I'm not sure I've ever tasted another scone that actually lives up to this memory, I haven't stopped trying. On occasion

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-52267212071180136782016-09-23T08:00:00.002-07:002016-09-23T08:24:54.723-07:00

Liv:  "Mom... can I have friends sleep over this weekend?" Me:  "Sure.  Any special requests for breakfast?" Liv:  "Ya.  They want the same waffles as last time, they loved them.  But they also said they're glad you don't make them eat vegan stuff.  Haha!  I didn't have the heart to tell them the waffles they want are the 'vegan stuff!'" Many

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-39269292724049282422016-09-18T16:41:00.002-07:002016-09-18T16:48:11.039-07:00

Acai, Pitaya... Bowls are all the rage right now with most cities offering numerous choices to fulfill your every desire.  But, the question remains - Are all bowls created equally?  When it comes down to ingredients, no.  They are not. With brilliant blends and artistic toppings, many bowls appear healthy and appealing, but instead are filled with sorbets, syrups, and

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-77520128173479231662016-07-31T08:13:00.000-07:002016-07-31T08:13:44.170-07:00

It's been a while since we've had Captain Greg stop by with one of his fabulous, and oh so decadent gelato concoctions. Who can forget his scandalously rich Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk?  Or maybe it's the zingy Lemon Lime version that stuck with you?  Personally I'll never forget the Ghirardelli Mocha Chip that sent me dreaming of Italy for days on end. One

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-45817071970770048772016-07-15T19:00:00.000-07:002016-07-15T19:06:13.372-07:00

Are you loving these long days of summer (except for my friends in the other hemisphere... for you I wish you warm weather soon!)?  Mornings with no alarms, impromptu beach sessions with friends, and Friday evening Jazz in the Park... I'm loving each and every sunny moment.  And frequently these special summer moments include food, but the potluck part can sometimes be difficult if

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-25733523720620642852016-05-22T21:58:00.000-07:002017-03-31T16:21:39.737-07:00

Loaded with history, tended by exemplary hosts, sleeping in comfortable rooms, and dining on delectable breakfasts catering to your every whim... did I catch your attention?  These are just a few highlights of our weekend at the Maxwell Creek Inn Bed and Breakfast in the Sodus, NY area. My first ever visit to the state of New York found me shivering in 42º temps on the chilly shores of

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-20045546548057602832016-05-13T11:40:00.001-07:002016-05-13T11:43:30.584-07:00

National food days... who decides them?  I mean seriously, how is today, April 13th, simultaneously National Fruit Cocktail Day, National Hummus Day AND National Apple Pie Day?  I simply don't get it. Nonetheless.  This morning I made Liv one of her favorite smoothies, something she dubbed an "Apple Pie Smoothie" way back when she was little.  And don't you know, today

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-69635665370469627922016-04-25T22:27:00.000-07:002016-04-25T22:27:39.549-07:00

c Looking to spend a little time on some of the most pristine beaches in the country?  Or how about dining in a restaurant in the heart of a quaint community with the feel of yesteryear?  Or perhaps you're looking to catch a glimpse of some of our country's elite military in training (SEAL BUD/S)?  What you are looking for is Coronado Island. Situated just across the bay from

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-9082635227349775412016-04-18T14:48:00.002-07:002016-04-18T16:41:11.448-07:00

We can all use a moment to simply sit and allow the stresses of life to melt away, can't we?  A bit of pure bliss to re-balance our minds and bring a moment of zen... Passion Fruit Melting Moments can do just that. While Liv Life recipes usually consist of plant based ingredients, this is one where I bring out the good, real butter.  Had I never tasted rich, real butter in my prior

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-27414689174127809622016-04-13T15:06:00.003-07:002016-04-13T15:12:53.120-07:00

Oh what I wouldn't give for a day or two on a tropical island right about now.  A few swaying palms, a hammock strung between them, and someone serving me frosty drinks with a touch of coconut... Well, I may not be able to swing the hammock, but the drink?  I've got us covered! Frosty and sweet with island pineapple and luscious mango, this smoothie brings not only a bit of an

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-56404932340648351462016-03-10T12:17:00.003-08:002016-03-10T12:17:42.759-08:00

The calendar may not officially say it, but the strawberries at my farmer's market definitely scream spring. Here in San Diego we've had local berries for over a month, and right now they are simply sweet as can be.  Plump and juicy, they'll make anyone feel spring in their hearts. And how better to celebrate than with a bright fruit salad featuring more local and in season

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-61731425682247570672016-02-29T15:40:00.000-08:002016-02-29T15:46:15.388-08:00

Spring is in the air!!  Well... at least it is here in San Diego.  Warm, bright days have me turning to simple bowls for lunch, and often for dinner as well.  But no matter the weather, quinoa reigns as one of my go-to ingredients. A protein-filled seed hailing from the Andean regions of Peru, quinoa earns its title of an "ancient grain" (actually it's really a seed, but many

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-49402490658748751892016-01-25T17:10:00.001-08:002016-02-16T20:01:05.512-08:00

Have you opened your freezer only to move aside that bag of cranberries you may have forgotten you opened only to have little frozen cranberries spill all over the freezer shelf??  Did you happen to be in a rush so you decided you would remember they were there and promised yourself you'd clean them up as soon as you had a moment?  Did you then forget and next time you opened the

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-89328171435124429792016-01-12T21:00:00.000-08:002016-01-13T09:50:20.958-08:00

Zen ~ "A state of focus that incorporates a toghetherness of body and mind.  Zen is a way of being.  It's also a state of mind.  Zen involves dropping illusion and seeing things without distortion created by your own thoughts." ~ Urban Dictionary Oh how I could use a bit of zen in my daily life.  With multiple schedules vying for my attention, a dog wanting a walk,

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-80827039009683710872016-01-10T20:41:00.001-08:002018-03-12T20:07:05.641-07:00

Summarizing 02015 for a girlfriend, the year didn't seem to be one I wanted to recap.  She asked if I really wasn't going to write our annual Christmas Letter, something I've done with zeal for as long as I can remember, and I shook my head no.  Memories filled with emotion, hospitals and loss flashed through my head as tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. But further

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227539665224064589.post-22930573606800211522015-12-24T05:00:00.000-08:002015-12-24T05:00:12.096-08:00

Luscious ganache enrobed with a shell of dark chocolate garnished with a sprinkle of crushed hazelnut.  Or perhaps the garnish is coconut.  Or maybe a chocolate covered coffee bean??   Whichever your favorite garnish, a basic ganache recipe brings a blank slate just waiting to be enhanced. However, when our family moved dairy-free years ago I thought chocolate truffles

Kim K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12340785398925878149noreply@blogger.com2