tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16861224345592137522024-03-13T08:42:55.901-07:00* Home Sweet Vegan Home *Vegan Food * Life * Art & TattooedgeekMrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-50199251004038325842016-02-03T11:33:00.003-08:002016-02-03T18:04:42.130-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JcqOHI_wFU/VrJWYHuuAXI/AAAAAAAAAkI/G1IRzWBcRtM/s1600/cancer%2Bsucks%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JcqOHI_wFU/VrJWYHuuAXI/AAAAAAAAAkI/G1IRzWBcRtM/s320/cancer%2Bsucks%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Over the last few months you may have seen some posts on the Facebook page or on one of our two Instagram accounts @tattooedgeekboutique or @thequixoticeye about our friend Kim Mesorana. <br />
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Mid 2015, experiencing some shortness of breath along with a cough, Kim went to the doctors, but was quickly dismissed. The symptoms continued and were still not taken as seriously as they should have been. 5 weeks later, knowing her own body and feeling like something was off, Kim returned to the doctors and begged for further testing. Eventually the doctors discovered a tumor the size of a grapefruit in her chest, putting pressure on her heart and bronchial cord; causing the cough and shortness of breath. The tumor lead to a diagnosis of stage 2 Bulky Mediastinal Classic Hodgkins Disease along with rare Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. If continued without treatment the combined cancers could have ended Kim's life within a year. <br />
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Kim is a wife and the mother of three children, the two youngest are under 5. She has begun chemotherapy and has undergone several surgeries. I'm sure I don't need to tell you that the bills are racking up, the testing that lead to her diagnosis rang in over several thousands of dollars alone. When this frightening chapter of the Mesorana family history is finally closed and Kim is given a clean bill of health the last thing they need is years worth of crippling medical bills.<br />
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I created the <b><u><a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.com/product/cancer-sucks">Cancer Sucks</a></u></b> candle as a means to raise some money for the Mesorana family. However, since I started selling them they have come to mean so much more, and I've learned a few things because of them.<br />
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First, cancer doesn't just suck, it super sucks. It sucks most for those fighting it, of course! But it also sucks for their family and care givers, it sucks for their friends, it sucks for those that have lost loved ones to it. It even sucks just to be a bystander and witness the invasive and extreme treatments. It sucks because its growing and affecting more and more people each day. It sucks because some treatments are limited state by state regardless of the benefits to the actual patients. It sucks because of the astronomical costs of treatments, treatments that could absolutely mean life or death to most patients. It sucks because the top three most common courses of treatment, chemo, surgery and radiation, all have pretty significant side effects; including but not limited too, infection, organ failure and .....cancer! That's right, cancer<i> treatments</i> can cause <i>new</i> cancers to grow, wtf! Cancer sucks because not all doctors take every symptom seriously, if my friend Kim hadn't pushed for tests she may still be undiagnosed now, and further away from ever being cured. Please for your own health and wellness, take symptoms seriously and get regular checkups. The earlier the detection the better the outcome.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-136N4UmZad4/VrJrMEKoiJI/AAAAAAAAAkw/F5TG3MADyS0/s1600/cancer-cases-on-rise.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-136N4UmZad4/VrJrMEKoiJI/AAAAAAAAAkw/F5TG3MADyS0/s320/cancer-cases-on-rise.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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I would sincerely appreciate it if you would consider buying a Cancer Sucks candle. They are available in both shops. <a href="http://www.thequixoticeye.etsy.com/">www.thequixoticeye.etsy.com</a> and for those of you without an Etsy account you can get them from the website <a href="http://www.tattooegeek.com/">www.tattooegeek.com</a>. If you'd rather not buy a candle, but still want to help, you can donate to the Kim Mesorana Stop Out Cancer Fund here: <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/kmdmes">https://www.gofundme.com/kmdmes</a> Thank you!</div>
<br />Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-46614329618550063032015-09-28T08:49:00.000-07:002015-09-28T08:53:45.563-07:00Halloween Arrives at Shop Along With 4 New Fall Scents:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OGpoVsSSC5o/Vgld9qNfnDI/AAAAAAAAAi0/4cAcJkScRy0/s1600/pumpk%2Bparty%2B2oz%2Bcandle%2Bpack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OGpoVsSSC5o/Vgld9qNfnDI/AAAAAAAAAi0/4cAcJkScRy0/s320/pumpk%2Bparty%2B2oz%2Bcandle%2Bpack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We're having a party at Tattooed Geek Boutique, a pumpkin party!</div>
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And we have 4 new fall scents to help us celebrate:</div>
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<u>Pumpkin Party</u></div>
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Rich pumpkin, spiced cake and creamy vanilla frosting. </div>
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<u>Candy Corn</u></div>
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Sweet and traditional, just like its namesake!</div>
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<u>Scaredy Cat</u></div>
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Black Licorice and creamy vanilla.</div>
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<u>Wicked</u></div>
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Orchard pears, green apples, warm cardamom and cinnamon and hints of vanilla.</div>
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Our Pumpkin Party is also available as lip balms, fragrance oils and 4oz fragrance mists.</div>
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Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-26625903629798749672015-09-15T14:14:00.002-07:002015-09-15T14:14:23.376-07:00Warm Dilly Dijon Golden Beet and String Bean Salad<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I'm constantly accused of only preparing dishes that I like, while neglecting ingredients that the others enjoy but I've never acquired a taste for. Beets would be a prime example. Michael loves them, I on the other hand could have spent the rest of my life without ever eating a single bite of one and still left this earthly plane completely contented. That is until a basket of fiery colored beets caught my eye at our local farm store. A quick Googling informed that the golden version had a better, sweeter taste then the standard red ones had, so I decided to give'em a try; hoping the beautifully hued root veggies could help me shed some of the accusations of meal time indifference. The web provided a host of various recipe options, (no surprises there!) including a salad that paired the beets with dill and Dijon, I couldn't resist. So here you have it; a warm Dilly Dijon Golden Beet and String Bean salad that even the most beet leery will enjoy!</div>
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<u>The Dressing</u></div>
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Prepare it first and set it aside</div>
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Whisk together:</div>
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1/2 cup apple cider vinegar</div>
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2 TBS chopped fresh dill, or 3 TBS dried</div>
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3 TBS prepared Dijon mustard (you can substitute a yellow mustard if you prefer a more mild tasting dressing, I used Organicville's which is more of a yellow color then most Dijons, but still has a richer flavor then standard yellow mustard). </div>
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3 TBS pure maple syrup (non vegans could use honey)</div>
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1 1/4 cup olive oil</div>
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1 TSP garlic powder</div>
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1 TSP onion powder</div>
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Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste</div>
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adjust seasoning to taste as necessary (I added more onion powder)</div>
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<u>The Veggies</u></div>
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6 medium to large golden beets</div>
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1 pound of string beans</div>
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1 small sweet onion</div>
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees</div>
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Trim and rinse 6 medium to large beets, then wrap each individually </div>
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first in parchment paper and then in foil (Martha said too, don't blame me!)</div>
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place the doubly wrapped beets on a baking pan in the center of the oven and bake for 55 minutes </div>
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While beets are baking trim and wash 1 pound of string beans</div>
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Fill a large pot with water, add salt and bring to a rolling boil, blanch string beans for exactly 6 mins.</div>
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After 6 mins strain the string beans and rinse in cold water for a minute, then add to a large bowl</div>
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Peel and thinly slice the onion and add it to the bowl with the string beans</div>
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After 55 minutes remove the beets from the oven and carefully unwrap them</div>
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As soon as beets are safe to handle, but still on the warm side, peel and dice into approximately 1/2 inch cubes </div>
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rinse them again if necessary then add to the bowl of string beans and sliced onion</div>
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toss with the dressing </div>
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add freshly ground pepper, serve and enjoy!</div>
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****Peeling the beets before roasting them can cause the flesh of the beet to brown and get dingy looking, peeling them after roasting protects them from discoloring.</div>
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Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-60689143645720872712012-01-19T15:54:00.000-08:002012-01-19T19:27:08.155-08:00Happy Birthday Mr. Poe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU9Qe40d9F8/Txi4jHTospI/AAAAAAAAAe8/W3IAtfZXA0Q/s1600/poe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU9Qe40d9F8/Txi4jHTospI/AAAAAAAAAe8/W3IAtfZXA0Q/s1600/poe.jpg" /></a></div><div style="padding-left: 14px; padding-top: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3c605b; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: black;">Edgar Allan Poe</span></span></div><div style="padding-left: 14px; padding-top: 13px; text-align: center;">January 19, 1809 – October 7, 1849</div><div style="padding-left: 14px; padding-top: 13px; text-align: center;"><u><span style="color: #3c605b; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: black;">A Dream Within A Dream</span> <span style="color: black;">by Edgar Allan Poe</span></span></u></div><div style="text-align: center;">Take this kiss upon the brow!<br />
And, in parting from you now,<br />
Thus much let me avow--<br />
You are not wrong, who deem<br />
That my days have been a dream;<br />
Yet if hope has flown away<br />
In a night, or in a day,<br />
In a vision, or in none,<br />
Is it therefore the less gone?<br />
All that we see or seem<br />
Is but a dream within a dream.<br />
<br />
I stand amid the roar<br />
Of a surf-tormented shore,<br />
And I hold within my hand<br />
Grains of the golden sand--<br />
How few! yet how they creep<br />
Through my fingers to the deep,<br />
While I weep--while I weep!<br />
O God! can I not grasp<br />
Them with a tighter clasp?<br />
O God! can I not save<br />
One from the pitiless wave?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Is all that we see or seem<br />
But a dream within a dream?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">In honor of Poe's birthday I created a treasury of great hand crafted Poe things.<br />
My favorite finds were:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JeIsakDoY78/Txi93x_DYvI/AAAAAAAAAfE/gHyFxuMDr1Q/s1600/poe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JeIsakDoY78/Txi93x_DYvI/AAAAAAAAAfE/gHyFxuMDr1Q/s320/poe2.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Poe 11x14 canvas print by Ghoulish Gary</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60606691/poe-canvas-print-11x14?ref=tre-1869229020-10">http://www.etsy.com/listing/60606691/poe-canvas-print-11x14?ref=tre-1869229020-10</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_0YDnFYbHrE/Txi-kRZXEXI/AAAAAAAAAfM/0lVv4dMokp8/s1600/poe3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_0YDnFYbHrE/Txi-kRZXEXI/AAAAAAAAAfM/0lVv4dMokp8/s320/poe3.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Edgar Allen Poe finger puppet greeting cards by Dear Deer Designs</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/42786332/edgar-allan-poe-finger-puppet-greeting?ref=tre-1869229020-13">http://www.etsy.com/listing/42786332/edgar-allan-poe-finger-puppet-greeting?ref=tre-1869229020-13</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8DHyk_ivLg/TxjZtMvNEcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/hnzIPJVQhEY/s1600/poe5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8DHyk_ivLg/TxjZtMvNEcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/hnzIPJVQhEY/s320/poe5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Edgar Allan Poe Doll With Raven by Uneek Doll Designs<br />
(which is ridiculously reasonably priced for an art doll, and so detailed!) <br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84949608/edgar-allen-poe-doll-with-the-raven?ref=tre-1869229020-2">http://www.etsy.com/listing/84949608/edgar-allen-poe-doll-with-the-raven?ref=tre-1869229020-2</a><br />
All of Uneek Doll Designs are actually pretty amazing. <br />
You should stop by their Etsy shop and marvel at their wonderful creations.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/UneekDollDesigns?ref=seller_info">www.UneekDollDesigns.etsy.com</a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T2Azb8PPD-Y/Txi_ELZUSqI/AAAAAAAAAfU/PBQZuHLojz4/s1600/poe4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T2Azb8PPD-Y/Txi_ELZUSqI/AAAAAAAAAfU/PBQZuHLojz4/s320/poe4.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">And the Edgar Allan Poe Author Pendant by Sweetheart Sinner</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55867304/edgar-allan-poe-goth-gothic-horror?ref=tre-1869229020-9">http://www.etsy.com/listing/55867304/edgar-allan-poe-goth-gothic-horror?ref=tre-1869229020-9</a><br />
And last but not least,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2dw-Z0nkxqo/TxjeWyH1tgI/AAAAAAAAAfk/pDijS9_oNDY/s1600/poe6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2dw-Z0nkxqo/TxjeWyH1tgI/AAAAAAAAAfk/pDijS9_oNDY/s320/poe6.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Raven Paper doll play set by Le Lapin Triste </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59683947/sale-the-raven-paper-doll-play-set?ref=tre-1869229020-3">http://www.etsy.com/listing/59683947/sale-the-raven-paper-doll-play-set?ref=tre-1869229020-3</a></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You can view the rest of the treasury here: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTExMDMyNDF8MTg2OTIyOTAyMA/a-dream-within-a-dream">http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTExMDMyNDF8MTg2OTIyOTAyMA/a-dream-within-a-dream</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Annabel Lee by Edgar Allan Poe</span></b> </span></u></div><div align="center">It was many and many a year ago,<br />
In a kingdom by the sea,<br />
That a maiden there lived whom you may know<br />
By the name of Annabel Lee;–<br />
And this maiden she lived with no other thought<br />
Than to love and be loved by me.</div><div align="center">She was a child and I was a child,<br />
In this kingdom by the sea,<br />
But we loved with a love that was more than love–<br />
I and my Annabel Lee–<br />
With a love that the winged seraphs of Heaven<br />
Coveted her and me.</div><div align="center">And this was the reason that, long ao,<br />
In this kingdom by the sea,<br />
A wind blew out of a cloud by night<br />
Chilling my Annabel Lee;<br />
So that her kingdom kinsmen came<br />
And bore her away from me,<br />
To shut her up in a sepulchre<br />
In this kingdom by the sea.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">The Angels, not half so happy in Heaven,<br />
Went envying her and me:–<br />
Yes! that was the reason (as all men know,<br />
In this kingdom by the sea)<br />
That the wind came out of the cloud, chilling<br />
And killing my Annabel Lee. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> But out love it was stronger by far than the love<br />
<div align="center"> Of those who were older than we–<br />
Of many far wiser than we–<br />
And neither the angels in Heaven above<br />
Nor the demons down under the sea,<br />
Can ever dissever my soul from the soul<br />
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee:–</div><div align="center">For the moon never beams without bringing me dreams<br />
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;<br />
And the stars never rise but I see the bright eyes<br />
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;<br />
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side<br />
Of my darling, my darling, my life and my bride,<br />
In her sepulchre there by the sea–<br />
In her tomb by the side of the sea.</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-53689758815571153372012-01-01T19:16:00.000-08:002012-01-01T19:16:38.402-08:00Happy New Year 2012!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDWWFzatO0c/TwEdDLo0AyI/AAAAAAAAAes/z0bpFaj1T6A/s1600/Happy+New+Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WDWWFzatO0c/TwEdDLo0AyI/AAAAAAAAAes/z0bpFaj1T6A/s320/Happy+New+Year.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Happy New Year! I feel like a kid on Christmas morning just thinking about the brand new year ahead us. I have so many products I want to add to both shops; www.tattooedgeek.com & www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com. I hope 2012 is a creative and prosperous year for all of us! </div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-65045380546067771372011-12-28T14:22:00.000-08:002011-12-28T16:49:32.684-08:00Our first gluten free Christmas<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We recently discovered that both Ryann (oldest daughter) and I are gluten intolerant. Which kinda sucks considering that gluten based products made up about 95% of our diet. But, I was feeling really run down and tired, scatter brained and just completely not right. I decided it was time to make some changes. After reading an article about gluten intolerance I thought maybe the first change to take place should be to rid myself of gluten. I decided to do a trial run and go two weeks gluten free, Ryann came along for moral support. Within three days we both agreed that we could breath easier and our appetites had decreased. By the end of the first week we had both lost a few pounds, our skin looked and felt better and we both just generally felt <i>better - </i>a lot better. By the end of the second week we were both hooked. Our digestion was better, our thinking was clearer - <b>everything </b>was better. I won't lie, gluten free veganism isn't exactly easy. It takes some effort, only because almost all premade vegan products are loaded with vital wheat gluten. On long days of filling orders I can't just run to the grocery store and pick up some quick Amy's dairy free burritos, or vegan Boca burgers (which I did all to often.) We're making almost everything from scratch, but it helps force us to premake meals so there's a lot less grabbing quick prepackaged foods; which is a very good thing. Keep in mind that neither of us are severely allergic to gluten, there's no anaphylactic shock or anything drastic going on here. There's just this mild yet constant discomfort, just enough to make life stink but not enough to let you know something's going wrong. If you feel like somethings off, or maybe that you could use a dietary change I strongly recommend taking a break from gluten. It may prove to be life changing. It was for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5PtN6wMKJM/TvuUG8sORNI/AAAAAAAAAeM/YLECospJnHQ/s1600/stuffed+peppers2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5PtN6wMKJM/TvuUG8sORNI/AAAAAAAAAeM/YLECospJnHQ/s320/stuffed+peppers2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There are seven of us, the Mister and I plus five kids. Only two of us have noticed a distinct positive change since going gluten free. The rest are clinging to their seitan, and other gluteny foods for dear life. I've been preparing two meals each night to accommodate everyone. For Christmas dinner I decided to make all of our holiday favorites gluten free and refused to cook two meals. We had stuffed peppers, Sicilian rice balls, brussels sprouts with roasted pine nuts and red peppers and a tossed garden salad. For St. Nick we left out gluten free oatmeal chocolate chip & walnut cookies and oatmeal raisin cookies.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-2Rlb_lhOc/TvuUExFAjrI/AAAAAAAAAeE/YSxnL5Lxktc/s1600/stuffed+peppers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-2Rlb_lhOc/TvuUExFAjrI/AAAAAAAAAeE/YSxnL5Lxktc/s320/stuffed+peppers1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I stuffed the peppers with roasted chick peas, cashews, brown rice couscous and a pepper and small onion that were diced and sauteed in olive oil. I topped the stuffed peppers with mozzarella style daiya and an Italian topping made from Almond meal, lemon juice, oregano, S&P, garlic powder and onion powder. I tossed the chick peas in olive oil and smoked paprika before roasting them for about 40mins at 400 degrees. Roasted Chickpeas are good enough to eat by themselves. If you haven't tried them yet you should get to it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BRwa36wEEo/TvuWe66y0WI/AAAAAAAAAeg/NcUTKgd9UeM/s1600/stuffed+peppers+%2526+brussell+sprouts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BRwa36wEEo/TvuWe66y0WI/AAAAAAAAAeg/NcUTKgd9UeM/s320/stuffed+peppers+%2526+brussell+sprouts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Brussels Sprouts with pine nuts and red peppers is one of my all time favorite dishes to make. I like mine extra garlicky. First I blanch two pounds of brussels sprouts for about 5 mins. I drain and set them aside. I saute about 5 cloves of garlic thinly sliced in some olive oil just until they start to turn golden brown. I throw in about a cup of pine nuts and saute for another minute or two. I add about a cup of thinly sliced red peppers and cook for another two minutes. I add a bit of lemon juice (about 1/3 of a cup) then add the blanched brussels sprouts and freshly ground sea salt and pepper and cook for a little bit more. You can transfer everything to a baking dish and roast for a bit in the oven until the brussels sprouts are crispy, but I don't. I serve it right from the pan. Crusty bread is the next task for me to tackle. The grocery stores around here carry packaged gluten free breads but they all suck. I serve the Brussels sprouts with brown rice and brown rice couscous, but it pairs really well with a good bread. If you have any tips for making an excellent vegan and gluten free multigrain loaf of bread <i>please</i>, <i>please</i>. <i>please</i> pass it on. I'm desperate!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xto4QuEVUTk/TvuUIlIQ2DI/AAAAAAAAAeU/qyeYg9bfVlU/s1600/stuffed+peppers+%2526+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xto4QuEVUTk/TvuUIlIQ2DI/AAAAAAAAAeU/qyeYg9bfVlU/s320/stuffed+peppers+%2526+cookies.jpg" width="281" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Nobody seemed to notice the lack of wheat in their Christmas dinner. St. Nick definitely didn't pass up the cookies our youngest left out for him. I think my days of cooking duel meals are numbered. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For the new year I'll have to figure out how to make a vegan and gluten free buffalo wing.</span></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2Hudson Valley, NY41.488858 -74.10357899999996841.483383 -74.105613499999961 41.494333 -74.101544499999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-65516430646418168162011-08-01T19:57:00.000-07:002011-08-18T16:32:25.076-07:00Labels makeovers and sachets<div style="text-align: justify;">A few of our original candle labels recently got a makeover.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qEu3hwekKOM/TjdlCxZeMKI/AAAAAAAAAdg/cD2hlxjjiks/s1600/mermaid+dreams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qEu3hwekKOM/TjdlCxZeMKI/AAAAAAAAAdg/cD2hlxjjiks/s320/mermaid+dreams.jpg" t$="true" width="251px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ey0KGxiS4TI/TjdlILRr2UI/AAAAAAAAAdk/PGJC6EBAsvQ/s1600/apple+of+my+eye2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ey0KGxiS4TI/TjdlILRr2UI/AAAAAAAAAdk/PGJC6EBAsvQ/s320/apple+of+my+eye2.jpg" t$="true" width="313px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4UmIKrsiEw/TjdlNLDP4oI/AAAAAAAAAdo/oSJxL5tXrfs/s1600/red+hot+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4UmIKrsiEw/TjdlNLDP4oI/AAAAAAAAAdo/oSJxL5tXrfs/s320/red+hot+1.jpg" t$="true" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgQiPb0q72I/TjdlTsURigI/AAAAAAAAAds/z_gDaTG6J7A/s1600/tough+cookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgQiPb0q72I/TjdlTsURigI/AAAAAAAAAds/z_gDaTG6J7A/s320/tough+cookie.jpg" t$="true" width="318px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mXouVR3P8tE/TjdldYPDeSI/AAAAAAAAAdw/qrYVwPoWukg/s1600/sage+citrus1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mXouVR3P8tE/TjdldYPDeSI/AAAAAAAAAdw/qrYVwPoWukg/s320/sage+citrus1.jpg" t$="true" width="320px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm really happy with the new labels, especially Red Hot. Hope you like them too! All of the made over candles are available in both shops <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/">http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/</a> and <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/">http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/</a>. I'll be adding a Red Hot lip balm this week. An Apple Of My Eye and Tough Cookie lip balm will be added soon too. Sachets are also in the Etsy shop now, they'll be up on the website sometime this week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-if0br91ShAc/TjdoFWnOMlI/AAAAAAAAAd0/rJylED8AanI/s1600/Absinthe+Sachet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-if0br91ShAc/TjdoFWnOMlI/AAAAAAAAAd0/rJylED8AanI/s320/Absinthe+Sachet1.jpg" t$="true" width="208px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7nykk-5ElFg/TjdoHjJBvYI/AAAAAAAAAd4/qsUrmSGYr4c/s1600/Love+Hurts+sachet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7nykk-5ElFg/TjdoHjJBvYI/AAAAAAAAAd4/qsUrmSGYr4c/s320/Love+Hurts+sachet.jpg" t$="true" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHBDGjWcjzI/TjdoK4PN3tI/AAAAAAAAAd8/fUntlN3v5_0/s1600/sachets+in+the+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHBDGjWcjzI/TjdoK4PN3tI/AAAAAAAAAd8/fUntlN3v5_0/s320/sachets+in+the+car.jpg" t$="true" width="238px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The sachets are great in the car, or the office, they're great anywhere the air could use some scenting. Hope you are enjoying the summer.</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-14328476208182261192011-06-27T13:29:00.000-07:002011-06-27T17:29:55.481-07:00Dear Etsy, I'm back!I am really happy to announce that we are back on Etsy. I really underestimated how much I'd miss having my own little corner of Etsy, how much I'd miss convo's and hearts and all the other good stuff Etsy has to offer. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="51px" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4zSxXs_7BVY/TgjkqxgC44I/AAAAAAAAAdU/ocEJfrKahlE/s400/tattooedgeek+etsy+banner.jpg" width="400px" /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I won't be using the Mrs. Tattooedgeek shop though. I've decided to neaten things up a bit for branding purposes. From now on you can find us at <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/">http://www.tattooedgeek.etsy.com/</a>. I've got the new Etsy shop stocked up with candles, lip balms and solid fragrance balms. I'll be added extra large pocket mirrors in the next day or so, and 1inch pin sets. I've also added a few new products, like the Little Red Candle and the Dill Pickle lip balm seen below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ2iyF8xR9U/TgjoetHEHhI/AAAAAAAAAdY/aLBfsgXyYsQ/s1600/little+red2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179px" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ2iyF8xR9U/TgjoetHEHhI/AAAAAAAAAdY/aLBfsgXyYsQ/s320/little+red2.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-47egd_wt0_k/Tgkd-NOAWHI/AAAAAAAAAdc/yJbrT8rUAj8/s1600/pickle+lip+balm8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-47egd_wt0_k/Tgkd-NOAWHI/AAAAAAAAAdc/yJbrT8rUAj8/s320/pickle+lip+balm8.jpg" width="274px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I'm still keeping the website active, for those without an Etsy account. <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.com/">http://www.tattooedgeek.com/</a> In the future I may add a few exclusives to both of the shops, but for now you can get the same products in either shop. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-85506780796700501422011-01-08T21:47:00.000-08:002011-01-08T22:07:59.320-08:00Snow day.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSlP6yi3_zI/AAAAAAAAAcA/BhbKzlG4LhA/s1600/snow%2Bday%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSlP6yi3_zI/AAAAAAAAAcA/BhbKzlG4LhA/s400/snow%2Bday%2B4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSlN9XK5akI/AAAAAAAAAbo/V8SNJGrLTFc/s1600/snow%2Bday%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSlN9XK5akI/AAAAAAAAAbo/V8SNJGrLTFc/s400/snow%2Bday%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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We had our second snow storm of the season yesterday. The kids had the day off from school. Fridays and Mondays are always the best days for a snow day, don't you think. I was able to finish up some label art for one of this years Valentines Day candles. I can't wait to share this one. I expect to have pictures here early this week and the candles in the shop by mid week. I'll also be added extra large pocket mirrors to the shop this week.Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-28636557683130344232011-01-02T12:50:00.000-08:002011-01-03T14:31:36.004-08:00Happy New Year 2011, and other holiday stuff.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSDq6R_3A8I/AAAAAAAAAaY/V6SzLjiSTY0/s1600/swami.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSDq6R_3A8I/AAAAAAAAAaY/V6SzLjiSTY0/s640/swami.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy 2011 Everybody!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">If you ask me the best thing about 2010 is that it came on quick and left ever quicker! Well there's that and the fact that <a href="http://www.theurbanhousewife.com/?p=766">Melisser Elliott</a> included me and <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.com/">Tattooed Geek</a> in her super awesome book <a href="http://www.vegangirlsguide.com/">The Vegan Girl's Guide To Life</a>. Ooh, and that the powers that be at <a href="http://www.mystyle.com/mystyle/index.jsp">The Style Network</a> brought us the hot mess that is Jerseylicious.</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
Now on to Christmas. The best Christmas present was delivered on December 23, Mike had his follow up body scan and was given a clean bill of health - he's completely cancer free! We expected as much but it was still great to hear. We kept Christmas very low key this year, but we did try a few new recipes that I wanted to share. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSImpS9WFII/AAAAAAAAAak/YRkX4UXKfw4/s1600/buckeye1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSImpS9WFII/AAAAAAAAAak/YRkX4UXKfw4/s320/buckeye1.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">I made Kittee's Buckeye Balls, <a href="http://www.pakupaku.info/sweets/buckeye_balls.shtml">http://www.pakupaku.info/sweets/buckeye_balls.shtml</a>. What drew me to this recipe was how quick and easy they seemed to make. It's true, they were really easy and took just a few minutes to prepare. Buckeye Balls are more of candy than a cookie - but who cares, they were delicious. Every one of us gave Kittee's Buckeye Balls two thumbs up.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSInchjE9TI/AAAAAAAAAbE/wj77mLNvero/s1600/christmas10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSInchjE9TI/AAAAAAAAAbE/wj77mLNvero/s320/christmas10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSInXYIxVzI/AAAAAAAAAbA/EUzZ9DvblWU/s1600/christmas9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSInXYIxVzI/AAAAAAAAAbA/EUzZ9DvblWU/s320/christmas9.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Nanny (my mother in law) came for Christmas baring jars and jars of fresh marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, olives, sun dried tomatoes with garlic and a ton of Eggplant Caponata (sometimes called Eggplant appetizer). Eggplant Caponata is a thick Italian eggplant stew/spread. It's naturally vegan and is perfect served at room temperature with lots of crusty bread. My kids go wild for it. You can find it canned or jarred in the Italian sections of most grocery stores. However it's much cheaper to make your own. Caponata is the perfect addition to Antipasto platters (especially vegan ones.)</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Eggplant Caponata</u> </div><div style="text-align: center;">(recipe originally found in Fresh From The Vegetarian Slow Cooker by Robin Robertson)</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 tablespoons olive oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 medium-sized yellow onion, chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 celery rib, minced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 large eggplant, peeled and diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 medium-sized red or green bell pepper, seeded and chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tablespoon tomato paste</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 tablespoons red wine vinegar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tablespoon sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 teaspoon dried basil</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 teaspoon dried oregano</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste</div><div style="text-align: center;">Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 cup black olives, drained pitted and sliced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cover, and cook until softened.Add the eggplant, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant begins to soften, about 5 more minutes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Transfer the mixture to a 4-quart slow cooker. Add the bell pepper, garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, oregano and red pepper flakes. season with salt and pepper. cover and cook on low until the vegetables are soft but still hold some shape. (in the slow cooker about 6 hours.) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. When the vegetables are cooked, stir in the olives, capers and parsley. Taste, adjust seasonings. Transfer the caponata to a bowl and let cool. Serve at room temperature. If not serving right away cover and refrigerate until needed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've made this recipe without a slow cooker. I cooked it all in one large pot, instead of transferring the sauteed onion, celery and eggplant to a slow cooker just lower the temperature to medium and continue the recipe as listed. Stir often. Caponata is much better the next day. I recommend always preparing it a day in advance</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJFz_h4aNI/AAAAAAAAAbM/De_dVnWrEk4/s1600/christmas7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJFz_h4aNI/AAAAAAAAAbM/De_dVnWrEk4/s320/christmas7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJF3KTVIjI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/UFwwBt2SNsw/s1600/christmas6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJF3KTVIjI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/UFwwBt2SNsw/s320/christmas6.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Nanny also very graciously occupied the kids with gingerbread baking and decorating while Mike and I slipped away for some last minute Christmas shopping.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJGgbEwYDI/AAAAAAAAAbU/gIWaN2GgCB0/s1600/cajunseitan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJGgbEwYDI/AAAAAAAAAbU/gIWaN2GgCB0/s320/cajunseitan1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Mike planned Christmas dinner Cajun style. He made a vegan jambalaya, gumbo and (my favorite) Cajun Seitan. As it turns out I'm not a gumbo person, and maybe not a jambalaya person either. I am definitely a Cajun seitan person though. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJISC6ZqDI/AAAAAAAAAbY/xXtu0scMeoU/s1600/christmas4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJISC6ZqDI/AAAAAAAAAbY/xXtu0scMeoU/s320/christmas4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJIXCBr0KI/AAAAAAAAAbc/wPsUF2Pgxdc/s1600/christmas8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJIXCBr0KI/AAAAAAAAAbc/wPsUF2Pgxdc/s320/christmas8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJIaonUaHI/AAAAAAAAAbg/9Yx2btf4Y6k/s1600/christmas11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJIaonUaHI/AAAAAAAAAbg/9Yx2btf4Y6k/s320/christmas11.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">All of our Christmas decorations are getting packed up as I type. Usually it makes me sad to stuff our wooden soldiers into their plastic sarcophagus for another year. Not so much this time though. Maybe I'm still in a food induced stupor, but this time I'm glad to be packing in all the holiday hoopla. I'd rather focus on the new year ahead of us.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJMIx0xgnI/AAAAAAAAAbk/IGUsBW4ll7U/s1600/New+Years+Baby+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TSJMIx0xgnI/AAAAAAAAAbk/IGUsBW4ll7U/s320/New+Years+Baby+2011.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-59337747883928476332010-12-11T21:56:00.000-08:002011-01-02T13:55:08.387-08:00New shop location.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TQRcCuvVEII/AAAAAAAAAZ0/NStlExaTs0o/s1600/Tattooedgeek++colored+sugarskull+Banner+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TQRcCuvVEII/AAAAAAAAAZ0/NStlExaTs0o/s400/Tattooedgeek++colored+sugarskull+Banner+copy.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">By popular demand, the shop is opened for the holidays! You can find us at <a href="http://www.tattooedgeek.com/">http://www.tattooedgeek.com/</a>. Several new candles have been added with more to come soon. Solid fragrances, fragrance oils, lip balms and pocket mirrors are being added throughout the coming week. The Etsy shop remains closed for now. I was reluctant to change the shop location from Etsy to Big Cartel, but I have to say I am really loving the design freedom Big Cartel offers. I still absolutely love Etsy. But from a shop owners perspective with Etsy it always seems like "Etsy" comes first, with Big Cartel my shop comes first -if that makes any sense. Check it out and you'll understand what I mean. Your purchases still go through paypal and are subject to all of the protection paypal offers. The holiday candles will be available through New Years. Any outstanding Etsy business will of course be honored. I'm still catching up so wholesale orders are on hold until after the new year. As always, please feel free to contact me at anytime about anything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TQT7azPF8gI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/9AS5XM5Btik/s1600/New+to+the+shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TQT7azPF8gI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/9AS5XM5Btik/s400/New+to+the+shop.jpg" width="341" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Not only did our shop move, we moved too. We got the keys to the new place 3 days before Mike's surgery. With Mike not well and surgery looming, moving wasn't exactly on our agenda at the time. With all of the doctor co pays, missed work and the online shop closure (after several screwed up orders I had to close the online shop until things settled down) we had a moving budget of exactly; zero! Plus, Mike was soon tied up healing from his neck dissection and thyroidectomy. The actual physical "move" was left to the kids and I. We spent the next two weeks moving like the band of white trash Gypsies that we are; we loaded all of our belongings into dozens of black garbage bags and piled up the minivan (cause we're classy like that!) It took about three thousand round trips but we got it done. It was during that hectic chaos that I realized how truly blessed I am. The children worked their butts off helping me move. It's not right to expect people so young to do so much, but they did it without even so much as a whimper. I probably would have ended up in the loony bin if it wasn't for them. Thankfully we walked away from the toxic house that we were living in, which by the way still sits empty. Since moving I found out that the family before us also left that house due to health concerns. Our landlord knew about the mold and the problems it caused and never informed us, bastard! That will never happen again. We went to the local building inspector and gave him a copy of the air quality report. The building inspector issued a citation so the landlord would have to have the house properly and professionally cleaned up. No more sick families-woohoo!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There was one little unfortunate mishap during the move. On a late Sunday night moving spree we hit a deer with the van. Actually the deer hit us I swear. After hitting us the deer ran away fine. Our van on the other hand was a different story. That deer left our van a mess -he left us a mess too! It had to be one of the worst experiences of my life. I never hit an animal before, it's been hard to shake off emotionally and financially. I'm pretty sure there's over a thousand dollars worth of damage. Fiberglass and Styrofoam do not hold up well against a 200lbs+ deer. I'm not kidding when I say that behind my broken fiberglass bumper was a big block of black Styrofoam. How is Styrofoam suppose to protect people? Dodge sucks.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>Cancer update:</u> Mike has his radiation appointments this coming week. He'll get a shot on Tuesday, a shot on Wednesday and a radioactive iodine pill on Thursday. On December 23 he'll have a full body scan, he should be completely cancer free. By Christmas we'll most likely be able to put all of this behind us -fingers crossed.<br />
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</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-85675031795507855132010-12-03T19:17:00.000-08:002010-12-04T09:06:57.895-08:00Thyroids, mold, moving and lumps.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TPlHQaNcrAI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Uk67ac1h1Fk/s1600/bust+2010.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TPlHQaNcrAI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Uk67ac1h1Fk/s320/bust+2010.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Sadly, this holiday season Tattooedgeek and I will not be at this years Bust Magazine's Holiday Craftacular. The Bust Craftacular is by far my most favorite vending event of the holiday season, unfortunately we didn't apply this year. Actually we won't be vending at any holiday events this year at all. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I mentioned in previous posts the last few months have been a little rough on our family and subsequently Tattooedgeek. Several simultaneous events brought our whole world to a complete halt. Most importantly; after being sick for a large part of the summer Michael (Mr. Tattooedgeek) was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Secondly, our landlord put the house that we were renting on the market without informing us. We found out on a Tuesday morning in July when a team of Realtors showed up at our door at 9:00 am demanding a walk through. The next 6 weeks were a literal whirled wind of doctor appointments and Realtors. At one point Michael was seeing 7 different doctors. The exact day Michael was diagnosed with thyroid cancer we were informed that our house had a buyer and the buyer had scheduled an inspection for the following weekend. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The house our family had lived in for almost 2 years drastically failed it's inspection. The buyer quickly backed out of the sale. Afterward the inspector came to Michael and I and asked if any of our family were ill. We told him what Mike was going through. The inspector said that the house had a serious mold infestation in the basement and the air quality was seriously compromised because of it. He insisted that everything, even the thyroid cancer, was a direct result of poor indoor air quality in the home. He strongly suggested that we have an air quality test preformed. We did and the results were off the charts. While an average home has about 500-1000 airborne mold spores at any given time, our basement had a whopping 36,000! Mike's office/studio had 9,600 and our bedroom had 5,700. We forwarded copies of the air quality report to all of Michael's doctors. None of the doctors would confirm that the mold caused Michael to become sick but every single one of them said to move A.S.A.P. So we did.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TPljkcJH1lI/AAAAAAAAAYU/ZUqiXvHG8jc/s1600/Mike%2527s+lump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="height: 173px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 492px;"><img border="0" height="173" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TPljkcJH1lI/AAAAAAAAAYU/ZUqiXvHG8jc/s320/Mike%2527s+lump.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Whether or not mold spores and poor indoor air quality were the cause of the thyroid cancer we're still not certain. On October 11, 2010 Mike had a complete Thyroidectomy and 19 lymph nodes removed from his throat. What started out as a small lump in late July had quadrupled by October. The right lobe of the thyroid had been completely replaced with a malignant tumor. 10 of the 19 lymph nodes removed had also turned malignant. The second week of December Michael will have radiation treatments We'll find out after the radiation treatments how successful the surgery was. Thankfully NO tattoos were harmed during the thyroidectomy and Mike handled the surgery amazingly. He was already making faces and joking about going home in the recovery room.<br />
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</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">Moving 7 people 3 cats and a Great Dane is no small task. Fortunately we found a place that allowed the animals while keeping the kids in the same schools fairly quickly. We started to move 2 days before Mike's surgery. Unfortunately the place is less then half the size of our last home and now half of our stuff is in storage. The actual move itself was a completely different traumatic experience that I'll save for another day. "Didn't you know about the mold?" is the question most people ask us. No, we truly didn't. The largest source of the mold was in the basement behind a closed door in a room we didn't have access to. Living in the house we didn't notice any moldy odors. After we moved though we noticed that <u>everything</u> we owned smelled like mold. What couldn't be washed was thrown out.</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
With Mike's surgery complete and our family moved into a nice mold free home I thought the only thing left to do was settle in and set up my work space. However within days of moving into the new place I started to notice the base of my neck was feeling somewhat different. A routine sonogram for a pre existing condition confirmed that my thyroid had grown a little. The growth was very little and my Endocrinologist wasn't concerned. But then earlier this week I felt like maybe there was somewhat of a lump forming at the base of my neck. A sonogram this Tuesday confirmed that there is indeed a new small little lump (nodule) on the right side of my thyroid that was not present just a few weeks ago. What that means I don't know. I am seeing a new, highly recommended Endocrinologist in a few weeks. Hopefully she'll have some answers for us. So far all we've been hearing is that the odds of two people in one family experiencing significant thyroid growth at the same time are none. But yet here we are, both of us with thyroid growths at the same time.</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">The purpose of this blog post was to explain why we didn't apply to this years Craftacular. Some of you have been kind enough to ask. Even though we won't be there this year many of our favorite shops and good friends will be. A list of New York vendors can be found here: <a href="http://www.bust.com/craftacular/vendors-nyc.html"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #444444;"><strong>http://www.bust.com/craftacular/vendors-nyc.html</strong></span></a> Be sure to stop by the <a href="http://www.rocklove.com/"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #444444;"><strong>RockLove</strong></span></a><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #444444;"><strong>, </strong></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/pulpsushi"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #444444;"><strong>Pulp Sushi</strong></span></a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/myzoetrope"><span style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #444444;"><strong>My Zoetrope</strong></span></a> booths! </div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-69018528043128002882010-11-05T17:29:00.000-07:002010-11-05T17:40:17.236-07:00Vegan Mofo 2010: Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNShh_lueZI/AAAAAAAAAYM/zf2-XZNZc3c/s1600/peanut+sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNShh_lueZI/AAAAAAAAAYM/zf2-XZNZc3c/s320/peanut+sauce.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles is an absolute family favorite. We use the Peanut sauce on just about everything, even salads. Use a little less vegetable broth and the Peanut Sauce can be used as a perfect party dip, serve with toasted pita triangles or baby carrots. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u>Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce</u><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup vegetable broth </div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 cup lime juice </div><div style="text-align: center;">2 cups non hydrogenated peanut butter (either crunchy or creamy works well) </div><div style="text-align: center;">2 tbs pure maple syrup </div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 cup Bragg's liquid amino's or soy sauce </div><div style="text-align: center;">fresh ground pepper </div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional) </div><div style="text-align: center;">Either 2 tbs of red pepper flakes or a couple of dashes of your favorite hot sauce </div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Optional:</u> toasted or raw sesame seeds for garnish</div><div style="text-align: center;">Directions: </div><div style="text-align: center;">Mix together vegetable broth, lime juice, Bragg's and maple syrup </div><div style="text-align: center;">Melt peanut butter in a sauce pan over medium heat </div><div style="text-align: center;">add the broth/lime juice/Bragg's and maple syrup mixture </div><div style="text-align: center;">whisk until completely blended and smooth (about 3 - 5 minutes) </div><div style="text-align: center;">add fresh ground pepper, optional cilantro and red pepper flakes (or hot sauce) </div><div style="text-align: center;">simmer another 5 minutes </div><div style="text-align: center;">Remove from heat and serve over anything your heart desires. If serving over noodles you can thin the sauce a little with a bit more vegetable broth </div><div style="text-align: center;">top with optional sesame seeds </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-25427337643305681632010-11-04T19:00:00.000-07:002010-11-04T19:09:25.151-07:00Vegan Mofo 2010: Big Fat Biscuits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNNZOufKDNI/AAAAAAAAAX8/iCMjP-BGZSM/s1600/biscuits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNNZOufKDNI/AAAAAAAAAX8/iCMjP-BGZSM/s320/biscuits.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Soups and stews have been on the menu for the last several days here. This evening we decided to make biscuits to enjoy with our brothy leftovers. I made three different types of biscuits: green onion, savoury red pepper & onion and a simple plain biscuit. The savory red pepper & onion biscuit recipe can be found in the pages of Sarah Kramer and Tanya Barnard's The Garden of Vegan. The green onion biscuit is identical to the plain biscuit with the addition of 1/2 cup chopped green onions. The plain biscuits were tonight's family favorite (recipe to follow.) Biscuits are so simple and quick to make, why anybody would buy the toxic rolled up kind from the grocery store dairy section is beyond me. Toxic??? Hell ya! Even if you can find a dairy free version they will still be loaded with hydrogenated oils, refined flours and several laboratory created completely unnecessary ingredients. Do yourself and those you feed a favor and steer clear of them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Plain & Simply Biscuits</u></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 cups unbleached flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 tsp baking powder</div><div style="text-align: center;">1tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp garlic powder</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 cup melted earth balance (or other non hydrogenated, non dairy butter substitute)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup plain almond (or soy) milk mixed with 1tsp lemon juice</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Preheat oven to 450. In a large bowl sift together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder. Mix lemon juice with non dairy milk then add melted earth balance. Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients and knead until you have a large ball of dough. Pull apart the large ball of dough into 6 medium balls or 12 small balls. Place the dough balls onto an oiled cookie sheet, and slightly flatten the tops down. Bake 10-15 minutes. Will make 6 medium biscuits or 12 small ones.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>Optional: </u> brush the tops of the biscuits with a little melted earth balance before you bake them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-41240350183961423202010-11-03T18:01:00.000-07:002010-11-03T18:01:45.993-07:00Vegan Mofo 2010 Day 3: Hearty (Un)Beef Stew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNIEcIBpSjI/AAAAAAAAAX4/F_gZEzwo2vc/s1600/beef+stew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNIEcIBpSjI/AAAAAAAAAX4/F_gZEzwo2vc/s320/beef+stew.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mike's trip to May Wah was a rather fruitful one. Not only did he bring home last nights vegan ham, but he also brought home two bags of "beef" chunks! Today we made an impromptu unbeef stew with the chunks. Tomorrow no fake meat, I promise.</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-14388202283602528582010-11-02T18:54:00.000-07:002010-11-03T09:19:33.415-07:00Vegan Mofo 2010 day 2: Black Eyed Peas, Collard Greens & Sliced Vegan Ham<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNC89e8vbSI/AAAAAAAAAX0/24dxrh54Ghk/s1600/black+eyed+peas+&+greens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TNC89e8vbSI/AAAAAAAAAX0/24dxrh54Ghk/s320/black+eyed+peas+&+greens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The sliced vegetarian ham from May Wah is by far our favorite fake meat. For those of you not familiar with May Wah you can find their extensive and wonderful products here: <a href="http://www.vegieworld.com/">http://www.vegieworld.com/</a>. Even though they list their products as vegetarian most are actually vegan. The kids favorite way to have the vegetarian ham is baked with sliced pineapples and an apricot glaze, my favorite way is with black eyed peas and collard greens - since I do the cooking and 99.9% of the dish washing this time my favorite won. Hurray for me! You don't need the vegetarian ham to make a yummy batch of black eyed peas and collard greens, a good liquid smoke is all you need. In my old age I have become very loyal to several products, STUBB'S Mesquite liquid smoke is one of those products. <a href="http://www.ilovestubbs.com/">http://www.ilovestubbs.com/</a>. In a deep pot I saute a large sliced onion with a couple of table spoons of Earth Balance, when the onion is soft and somewhat translucent I add 2 cups of vegetable broth, some Annie's natural organic vegan Worcestershire sauce, a couple of dashes of the Stubbs mesquite liquid smoke and salt & pepper to the pot. I bring it all to a boil then throw the collard greens into the pot and simmer until the greens are nice and wilted. Then I put the black eyed peas into the pot and continue to simmer for 15-20 more minutes, if I have the vegetarian ham I'll slice it into pieces and toss the pieces into the pot the last 5 minutes of cooking. Once everything is finished I sometimes use any extra liquid to make a gravy for mashed potatoes, or I'll leave the broth with the greens and black eyed peas and serve with fresh biscuits. Canned black eyed peas work well in this dish and will cut your cooking time considerably, however I prefer to use fresh or frozen. If you decide to use either fresh or frozen make sure you soak your black eyed peas long enough so when you cook them they will be nice and soft. Before cooking the collard greens you should remove all thick stalks then wash and chop the greens into bite sized pieces. Ooooh, I almost forgot the hot sauce! Keep a bottle of good hot sauce on the table when serving black eyed peas and collard greens.<br />
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</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-53244157776573002532010-11-01T19:34:00.000-07:002010-11-01T20:07:18.883-07:00Hello Vegan Mofo 2010!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM9vZswZ1fI/AAAAAAAAAXc/9RZeSTMJp88/s1600/vegan+mofo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="67" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM9vZswZ1fI/AAAAAAAAAXc/9RZeSTMJp88/s320/vegan+mofo3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This years Vegan Mofo arrived not a minute to soon for me. The last two months were a bit rough for our family. We're all fine now and hard at work getting back into the swings of things, but I'd be lying if I didn't admit to a tad bit of residual post traumatic stress disorder. Halloween and the Mofo were just what I needed to shake the little black cloud that's been following me around the last few days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Black Bean Soup is the perfect companion to a chilly night of trick or treating. I topped each bowl of soup with a teaspoon of a sour cream like blend of Vegenaise, tahini, lemon juice, almond milk, garlic powder and sea salt. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM975N7U98I/AAAAAAAAAXk/0o29bilnaec/s1600/halloween+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM975N7U98I/AAAAAAAAAXk/0o29bilnaec/s320/halloween+2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM980nJMlEI/AAAAAAAAAXo/n6DihXe1H5Y/s1600/halloween+2010+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM980nJMlEI/AAAAAAAAAXo/n6DihXe1H5Y/s320/halloween+2010+2.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The kids dressed up in their usual homicidal best, except for Em. She went the old Hollywood route. We didn't carve pumpkins this Halloween for the first time in 18 yrs. - a decision I deeply regret. Next year we'll have to carve two each to correct this injustice. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM9_Prw_TiI/AAAAAAAAAXs/8LDeVeHzJKg/s1600/halloween+2010+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TM9_Prw_TiI/AAAAAAAAAXs/8LDeVeHzJKg/s320/halloween+2010+3.jpg" width="284" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hope you all enjoyed your Halloween. Be sure to check out some of the other blogs particapating in this years Vegan Mofo. You can find a list at <a href="http://veganmofo.wordpress.com/">http://veganmofo.wordpress.com/</a></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-48414636134678788442010-09-01T08:38:00.000-07:002010-09-05T08:57:14.289-07:00SweetLeaf & Israeli Couscous<div style="text-align: justify;">My biggest vice in life comes in a bottle. Not a beer bottle, nor a wine bottle - a Snapple bottle. I love Snapple iced tea. I love most bottled ice tea. I've been addicted to bottled iced tea for a minimum of 20 years. I'd walk to school past the corner bagel store and pick up a Raspberry Snapple on the way, and then again on the way home. By the time high school was over I was up to 4 or more bottles a day. As a "grown up" I got a membership to one of those big bulk stores, you know the kind that sells <em>cases</em> of Snapple Iced tea for dirt cheap. Oh god did I buy tons of the junk! Until recently bottled iced tea's still remained the greatest source of empty calories in my diet. I am finally happy to report that I've just about kicked my bottled iced tea addiction! Don't get me wrong, I'm still addicted to iced tea. Only now I make my iced tea at home and I sweeten it with SweetLeaf stevia. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5iU_CYXSI/AAAAAAAAAWs/QtvqkqSbK2M/s1600/sweatleafdrinks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5iU_CYXSI/AAAAAAAAAWs/QtvqkqSbK2M/s320/sweatleafdrinks.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">When I sat down and really reviewed my diet I had no choice but to come to terms with the fact that the bottled iced teas had to go. But what to replace them with? I drink water but sometimes you need something more then just water. Anything with chemical sweeteners was completely out of the question! I'd rather be overweight then load myself up with aspartame. I like the taste of Agave nectar, but some research indicates that Agave nectar isn't much better for you then high fructose corn syrup; therefore making Agave nectar seem like too much of a lateral move to be worthwhile.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">That brings me to Stevia. Stevia is an all natural plant derived sugar substitute with zero calories and zero carbohydrates. Stevia doesn't adversely affect blood glucose levels and may be used freely by diabetics. There are several commercial brands of stevia on the market now, but be careful - not all stevia products are equal. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TIKsrba7C0I/AAAAAAAAAXU/EH6wNhI98NQ/s1600/sweetleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TIKsrba7C0I/AAAAAAAAAXU/EH6wNhI98NQ/s320/sweetleaf.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">SweetLeaf is the only pure stevia product that you can purchase in packets, shaker or tablets. The other two major Stevia brands are loaded with fillers like cellulose powder and undisclosed natural flavors. They also contain processed ingredients such as Erythritol and isomaltulose. Erythritol has been associated with digestive upset, diarrhea, and bloating. Isomaltulose (sometimes know as Palatinose) is a disaccharide that is commercially manufactured enzymatically from sucrose via bacterial fermentation. (In other words, they're a Frankenstein like concoction pushed through the FDA by the two major soda manufacturers Pepsi and Coca Cola as a knee jerk reaction to the growing concern over findings linking chemical sweeteners and various cancers.) Some of the reported side effects of Isomaltulose are similar to those associated with a Candida (yeast) overgrowth such as mouth soars, a thickening of the tongue, upset stomach, diarrhea and in some extreme cases full blown yeast infections. SweetLeaf on the other hand has two ingredients, inulin soluble fiber and stevia leaf extract. The side effects are typical as with any natural herbal supplement. If you have allergies to various herbs then maybe Stevia isn't the sweetener for you. But in it's purest form (such as SweetLeaf) Stevia can be a invaluable tool when trying to lighten up your caloric intake. Plus it tastes great in fruited teas and lemonades!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5icZLE3oI/AAAAAAAAAW0/ROAkB91AB0I/s1600/orange+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5icZLE3oI/AAAAAAAAAW0/ROAkB91AB0I/s320/orange+tea.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Orange Iced Tea is my favorite with Strawberry Lemonade a close second. The girls are head over heals in love with Iced Green Tea with Mint. Mint leaves added to any Lemonade or Tea is super refreshing. The best thing about using Stevia as your sweetener (as if being an all natural zero calorie sweetener could be topped) is that a little goes a long way. Three teaspoons sweeten two whole quarts!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5rOMA0C1I/AAAAAAAAAW8/-vaJ6n9qqmI/s1600/fruit+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5rOMA0C1I/AAAAAAAAAW8/-vaJ6n9qqmI/s320/fruit+tea.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">You can find more information about stevia, Sweetleaf and other stevia products (including recipes) by visiting the follow links: </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.sweetleaf.com/">http://www.sweetleaf.com/</a>, <a href="http://www.stevia.com/">http://www.stevia.com/</a> and <a href="http://www.stevia.net/">http://www.stevia.net/</a>.</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5wOJKkR_I/AAAAAAAAAXE/cWdfKqEXGTU/s1600/couscous.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TH5wOJKkR_I/AAAAAAAAAXE/cWdfKqEXGTU/s320/couscous.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Before I end this post I wanted to share with you a salad that I've become obsessed with this summer. It's an Israeli couscous salad that combines slivered almonds, dried cranberries, parsley and a raspberry vinaigrette. It can be served chilled or as I prefer at room temperature. </div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>Israeli Couscous Salad</u></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">2 1/2 Cups Vegetable Broth</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">2 Cups Israeli Couscous</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">2tsp turmeric</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1tsp salt</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup Slivered Almonds</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Small bunch of Italian Parsley finely chopped</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>Raspberry Vinaigrette</u></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1/2 cup olive oil</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">*1/2 cup raspberry infused white balsamic vinegar </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1tsp garlic powder</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">1tsp dried oregano</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">2tbs pure maple syrup (agave nectar is also good)</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">sea salt & fresh ground pepper to taste</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>optional</u>: 2tbs prepared dijon mustard</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">* If you can't get your hands on raspberry infused white balsamic vinegar you can use either of the following substitutions:</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1/3 cup raspberry juice and 1/2 white vinegar</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">3tbs seedless raspberry preserves mixed with 1/2 c apple cider vinegar</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">******</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Prepare Raspberry Vinaigrette and set aside</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Bring vegetable broth, turmeric and salt to boil</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Stir in Israeli Couscous and let simmer for 8-10 min (or until all water is absorbed)</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">In a separate large bowl mix together slivered almonds, chopped parsley and dried cranberries</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Add prepared couscous to bowl with almonds,parsley and cranberries</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">pour in raspberry vinaigrette and mix well</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">chill stirring occasionally until salad has cooled to desired temperature</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-81052492050590343222010-07-12T16:39:00.000-07:002010-07-12T20:10:52.132-07:00Give away!<div style="text-align: center;">*--*--*--*--Wanna win a trio of our 2oz candles?--*--*--*--*</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDukxLccoEI/AAAAAAAAAWU/uvWBco-JspE/s1600/mrstattooedgeek+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDukxLccoEI/AAAAAAAAAWU/uvWBco-JspE/s320/mrstattooedgeek+giveaway.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Rebecca from www.soapdeli.etsy.com is hosting a giveaway of 3 of our 2oz candles in ADDITION to one of her awesome bars of soap (some of which seem to be vegan friendly) on her blog <a href="http://soapdelinews.blogspot.com/">http://soapdelinews.blogspot.com/</a>. Stop by the blog for more info and to enter the giveaway.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.creepyqueen.com/"><img src="http://creepyqueen.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/cqbuttonwee.gif" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Also...... a great big shot out and thank you to Creepy Queen Magazine for posting an interview with me in the hot products section of the Creepy Queen blog! Go to <a href="http://creepyqueen.com/category/hotproducts/">http://creepyqueen.com/category/hotproducts/</a> to read the interview.</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-28851066072659166002010-07-05T14:25:00.000-07:002010-07-06T08:38:29.456-07:00Independence Day<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDIbrWcE-WI/AAAAAAAAAVU/QUe_2GfgBRI/s1600/july+4th+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDIbrWcE-WI/AAAAAAAAAVU/QUe_2GfgBRI/s320/july+4th+2010.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">Leaving NYC and moving 75 miles north doesn't always seem like it was a good idea. The lack of vegan restaurants, the snow and simply being an hour and half away from NYC can really get on my nerves. Then the 4th of July comes around. When the 4th comes I remember why we moved to the Hudson Valley. Our little town here closes the main streets to vehicles allowing children to have the run of the place all afternoon and most of the night. I usually skip the afternoon festivities of parades, animal contests, races and street vendors. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDIcX1nQZhI/AAAAAAAAAVc/v72KLgZiBYE/s1600/july+4th+2010+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDIcX1nQZhI/AAAAAAAAAVc/v72KLgZiBYE/s320/july+4th+2010+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">But I always show my face for the fireworks. This years fireworks display did not disappoint, in fact I think those in charge of the pyrotechnics might have stepped up their game some. There was definitely a few new kabooms added last night - much to my delight!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDI7kEImWtI/AAAAAAAAAV0/geRRES6H8ZE/s1600/july+4th+2010+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDI7kEImWtI/AAAAAAAAAV0/geRRES6H8ZE/s320/july+4th+2010+3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">After a few hours in the a.m. preping orders to ship I spent the rest of the afternoon cooking for Mike and the kids. I made a very Patriotic potato salad for lunch. I combined purple (hoping they'd pass for blue) potatoes, red plum tomatoes and sliced sweet white onions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDI2uQHGS3I/AAAAAAAAAVs/-m8UVvQo4Jg/s1600/4th+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDI2uQHGS3I/AAAAAAAAAVs/-m8UVvQo4Jg/s320/4th+food.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"> I parboiled the potatoes whole leaving their skins on. (Leaving the potatoes whole with skins on helps them retain their vibrant purple color, if you peel them first they will turn an ugly grayish color during the parboiling process.) I peeled and quartered the potatoes. I sliced the onion and quartered the plum tomatoes. I added some fresh chopped Italian parsley and tossed everything in an olive oil vinaigrette dressing. </div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJFVy75cjI/AAAAAAAAAV8/hjQzL8i0Cmk/s1600/purple+potatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJFVy75cjI/AAAAAAAAAV8/hjQzL8i0Cmk/s320/purple+potatoes.jpg" /></a>I'm still not sold on Purple Potatoes. Visually they definitely add something, but they are rather costly and I'm not certain I like the texture of them. I find them to be kind of grainy, actually mealy might be a better description. Without a doubt I prefer red skinned or good old fashioned white potatoes.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJGoVUXdMI/AAAAAAAAAWE/nDbaDHn7C2k/s1600/phillywrap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJGoVUXdMI/AAAAAAAAAWE/nDbaDHn7C2k/s320/phillywrap.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">I also made Philly Cheese Stake wraps with a homemade cashew "cheddar" cheese sauce. I sauteed Tofurky Philly style steak deli slices (<a href="http://www.tofurky.com/">http://www.tofurky.com/</a>) with sliced onions and peppers until everything was browned and crispy. Before I wrapped up the sauteed stuff I smothered everything in "cheddar" sauce. I firmly believe that creamed cashew's can replace just about any dairy product. We finished the 4th with a very patriotic dessert. An apple pie?????</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJKz8Kvn3I/AAAAAAAAAWM/z01OEmmWrDY/s1600/4th+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TDJKz8Kvn3I/AAAAAAAAAWM/z01OEmmWrDY/s320/4th+cake.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">HELL NO! An extra super chocolatey chocolate cake. As far as I'm concerned chocolate beats apples any day of the year, even the 4th of July.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-727658473251854282010-06-26T16:19:00.000-07:002010-06-26T16:19:38.658-07:00Sale Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TCaJu50xM8I/AAAAAAAAAVM/67ot_m1YO00/s1600/2oz+candle+sale1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TCaJu50xM8I/AAAAAAAAAVM/67ot_m1YO00/s320/2oz+candle+sale1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I'll be listing several sales the next few days. The first of which is up and running. I've listed 5 of my 2oz candles for $12.00 plus $5.00 flat rate shipping. My 2oz candles make great gifts. They're also great for traveling with. There are dozens of scents to choose from, and I'll be adding a few new ones over the weekend. <a href="http://www.mrstattooedgeek.etsy.com/">http://www.mrstattooedgeek.etsy.com/</a></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-80529034726381547662010-06-26T07:17:00.000-07:002010-06-26T13:26:22.400-07:00My iterview with NUOK & The Jersey Shore Saga: Friggin' TwilightA few weeks back I was interviewed by the very lovely and very patient Fran from the Italian blog NUOK. The interview is up on the blog now. If you ever had any questions about me or Tattooedgeek this interview probably answers all of them.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nuok.it/2010/06/today-in-new-york-mrs-tattoed-geek/"><br />
http://www.nuok.it/2010/06/today-in-new-york-mrs-tattoed-geek/<br />
</a><br />
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And, well this just cracked me up! <br />
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<object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SWIPE9fSWzw&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SWIPE9fSWzw&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-15864589699845366202010-06-15T20:21:00.000-07:002010-06-15T20:21:21.338-07:00Balms away!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I am so happy to share with you the newest additions to the Tattooedgeek Inc. product line.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBguMgWhdpI/AAAAAAAAAU0/m33UE5diIPw/s1600/fragrance+oils.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBguMgWhdpI/AAAAAAAAAU0/m33UE5diIPw/s320/fragrance+oils.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">The first addition is my new series of fragrance oil rollers. My fragrance oil rollers glide on smooth, absorb almost instantly into your skin and smell wonderful! I'll be adding more fragrances over the next few days. You can expect to see a matching fragrance oil roller for every one of my candle scents as well as a few new surprises. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBgypU7zhbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/djBTBaQTvqk/s1600/roller+balls+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBgypU7zhbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/djBTBaQTvqk/s320/roller+balls+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">And now for the Balms! I'm adding dozens of new lip balms to the shop. My lip balms are super moisturizing and come in lots of great flavors. Most are flavored with pure essential oils and a touch of Stevia for a bit of sweetness. Needless to say both of my new fragrance oil rollers and lip balms are completely vegan, they are also free from all petroleum by-products. </div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBhBeVsAdoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/XRyXEM_d-ao/s1600/balms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TBhBeVsAdoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/XRyXEM_d-ao/s320/balms.jpg" /></a></div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-4864531841750895892010-06-04T16:48:00.000-07:002010-06-05T18:37:54.262-07:00Great Gifts for Girl Grads!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Graduation time is here and I thought I'd highlight some great gift ideas for the Graduation Girl in your life. Give your Grad the gift of luck with these inexpensive picks from a few of my favorite Etsy shops. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-kVQbrgI/AAAAAAAAATs/VbU-asOWilU/s1600/blog+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-kVQbrgI/AAAAAAAAATs/VbU-asOWilU/s320/blog+bracelet.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crazy Lucky Dice </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pulpsushi.etsy.com/">http://www.pulpsushi.etsy.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-qkR5rCI/AAAAAAAAAT0/44-HGX8XCiI/s1600/blog+earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-qkR5rCI/AAAAAAAAAT0/44-HGX8XCiI/s320/blog+earrings.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Silver Lucky Horseshoe Studs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rocklove.etsy.com/">http://www.rocklove.etsy.com/</a> or <a href="http://www.rocklove.com/">http://www.rocklove.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAmRCHN3wAI/AAAAAAAAAUs/qAqhtkWOUEY/s1600/blog+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAmRCHN3wAI/AAAAAAAAAUs/qAqhtkWOUEY/s320/blog+necklace.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lucky 13 Antique Skeleton Key Star Necklace</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bellasmiles.etsy.com/">http://www.bellasmiles.etsy.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(FYI: Bella Smiles is a vegan owned and operated shop)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-zIcuKvI/AAAAAAAAAUE/KQkbmYicZbI/s1600/blog+pendant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-zIcuKvI/AAAAAAAAAUE/KQkbmYicZbI/s320/blog+pendant.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lucky Cat Glass Pendant</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kawaiisakurajewerly.etsy.com/">http://www.kawaiisakurajewerly.etsy.com/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-6XM0aCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/91yI1P_lOhY/s1600/blog+print2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAl-6XM0aCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/91yI1P_lOhY/s320/blog+print2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Lucky Love is a Devil Tattoo Pinup Girl</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinkytoast.etsy.com/">http://www.pinkytoast.etsy.com/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAmHuf5jHTI/AAAAAAAAAUk/eYBorBxEpyA/s1600/blog+magnets2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAmHuf5jHTI/AAAAAAAAAUk/eYBorBxEpyA/s320/blog+magnets2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Cute Cupcake Magnets</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rubbishtees.etsy.com/">http://www.rubbishtees.etsy.com/</a> </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">If your Grad is dorm bound help ward off the home sick blues with these super cute felt magnets. I mean seriously, what girl wouldn't feel lucky with a cute little cupcake magnet on her mini fridge smiling back at her! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">**P.S. (everything listed is $30.00 and under!) </div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1686122434559213752.post-71348909288057403842010-05-31T20:47:00.000-07:002010-06-01T10:08:34.025-07:00Growing Pains<div style="text-align: justify;">Almost two whole month have past since I updated HSVH last. My blogging time has fallen victim to Tattooedgeek Inc., which by the way I'm pleased to report has been doing well. My sales are increasing, especially wholesales orders. I've had the pleasure of working on several sets of wedding favors including my favorite, the Sugar Skull Lip Balm favors pictured below. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARrIHE0aEI/AAAAAAAAASk/R42BV1Os0u4/s1600/sugarskullwedding+favors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARrIHE0aEI/AAAAAAAAASk/R42BV1Os0u4/s320/sugarskullwedding+favors.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">I was asked to create a custom aftercare kit for a local tattoo parlour. The kits include a 2oz cruelty free rosemary and lavender glycerin soap. Rosemary essential oil is excellent for minor skin abrasions, it helps stimulate healing. Lavender essential oil is a natural antiseptic. I've been told that over 50 of the kits have already sold.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARsZ0Wu4sI/AAAAAAAAASs/DaPiDAoUDgw/s1600/tattooaftercare+kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARsZ0Wu4sI/AAAAAAAAASs/DaPiDAoUDgw/s320/tattooaftercare+kit.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">My daughters and I were able to vend in Brooklyn on May 1st & 2nd as part of the Brooklyn Lyceum's Spring Food and Craft Market. We brought my new line of 3.5 inch pocket mirrors to the Market. I brought 27 mirrors and came home with just two. The mirrors will make their shop debut sometime this week. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARvo17r-nI/AAAAAAAAAS0/4uD4r-dLswo/s1600/springlyceumcraftmarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARvo17r-nI/AAAAAAAAAS0/4uD4r-dLswo/s320/springlyceumcraftmarket.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARwa0IoOwI/AAAAAAAAAS8/9DdD0Yr9cWE/s1600/springlyceumcraftmarket2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARwa0IoOwI/AAAAAAAAAS8/9DdD0Yr9cWE/s320/springlyceumcraftmarket2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">I love vending in Brooklyn, it's always a great experience. Not only was the Spring Food & Craft Market fun, but I also got to meet customer/fellow etsyian and vendor Darlene from Ursula and Olive ( <a href="http://www.ursulaandolive.com/">http://www.ursulaandolive.com/</a>, <a href="http://www.ursulaandolive.etsy.com/">http://www.ursulaandolive.etsy.com/</a>.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARzMhSwphI/AAAAAAAAATE/nZ2kDmvJjdE/s1600/ursulaandolive.com3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TARzMhSwphI/AAAAAAAAATE/nZ2kDmvJjdE/s320/ursulaandolive.com3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">Just as their banner promises, Ursula and Olive offers up really fun and bold geeky goodness in the form of necklace pendant combos, earrings and a few other awesome products, all extreamly well crafted. We brought home one of Ursula and Olive's Mr. Spock necklaces, next time I'm getting the "Snape is sexy" pendant. (And now you know where the geek in Tattooegeek comes from.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TASEfr6iqhI/AAAAAAAAATk/t-LeG8R99DM/s1600/ursulaandolive.com2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TASEfr6iqhI/AAAAAAAAATk/t-LeG8R99DM/s320/ursulaandolive.com2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Food has been another causality of Tattooedgeek's recent growth spurt. There has been many a 9:00p.m. microwaved Amy's burritos as of late (we like the breakfast ones, they're vegan and really good.) Michael's birthday provided a much needed respite from all of the frozen vegan food. I put aside work and made Lemon Pepper Seitan Medallions with steamed string beans and a wild rice blend. I formed the Seitan as if I was making sausages to get the medallion shape. I dredged the medallions in organic corn starch then fried them until golden and crispy. I then smothered the medallions in the Lemon Pepper sauce. </div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAR8K4JWqiI/AAAAAAAAATU/DGAHCnN4T1M/s1600/lemonsetianmedalians.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TAR8K4JWqiI/AAAAAAAAATU/DGAHCnN4T1M/s320/lemonsetianmedalians.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Not being much of a cake person myself, I opted to make super chocolaty cupcakes. Nobody complained!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TASAx4zwKvI/AAAAAAAAATc/rp9GFw0_LZ0/s1600/chocolatecupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yGV8B5-z3nE/TASAx4zwKvI/AAAAAAAAATc/rp9GFw0_LZ0/s320/chocolatecupcakes.jpg" /></a></div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">I really need to figure out how to manage my time better. One decent cooked meal a month is completely unacceptable. Any suggestions? How do you handle family, work, food, homework, cleaning etc....</div>Mrs.TattooedGeekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02934901832790436366noreply@blogger.com4