Small Business Saturday - Mamma Bee.......

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -
1. Your spending will boost the local economy
Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

 4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

 5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday  I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Penny of Mamma Bee, she says  –

My name is Penny Bryan, mother of two girls, aged 1 and 3. I love to dress them in coordinating outfits which is why I started creating matching outfits using frills and lace. When friends asked if I could make these for their children I decided to set up Mamma Bee showing various designs that I could make. Since then I have continued to enjoy making a number of outfits to order each week. Please feel free to join Mamma Bee group on Facebook and Instagram to browse my handmade outfits for girls aged 0 to 5 years.

Girly lace & all pretty things....



Modelled by Penny's gorgeous children....

Penny's Hand Made Designs.....

Breaking Up With Jo......

With a big sigh and a sinking heart I knew I would have to look - I needed to find out. I guess in my heart I knew the truth but like with all crumbling relationships I didn't want to face it. Seven years is a long time to be together, we had been faithful, laughed, cried and made some incredible memories together but now I've changed. 'It's me, not you!' my head cried! Google made the answer quick and easy. There it was in black and white, confirmed - Jo Malone perfume isn't vegan, infact it is part of a brand that is well known for its cruelty to animals. Heartbroken was an understatement......

 As I squirted the last of the bottle on my skin, a trickle of sadness ran through me. So many memories I have are prompted by various Jo Malone perfumes. It was the end of an era. Squaring my shoulders I stood tall, grabbed my bag and accepted my mission to find a new perfume that was vegan.

A little research gave me limited options, all the major perfume houses were sadly out which left me with Lush, Neals Yard, Pacifica and some online only brands with no testers. Now before we go any further I need to make a confession *whispers* I don't like Lush. There - I have said it. I wish I did - really really wish I did. It ticks all the boxes for me, ethical, vegan, affordable, against animal cruelty. Amazing. Except three teeny tiny things -

 

 •The smell gives me a headache

 •The crazy colours freak me out

 •I have previously been allergic to some of the products.

 So with Lush out of the running and my local Holland and Barrett not stocking Pacifica ( I would have to buy it on line without so much as a sniff before parting with my cash) I headed off to Neals Yard with everything crossed I would like one of their vegan perfumes.

Now as a self-confessed beauty product junkie I had had a little crush shall we say on a Neals Yard for some time. Their Women's Balance Oil is an essential part of my bathing routine and my poor hands could not cope without their cuticle oil but perfume? Would I like it? Would the fragrance last? Would I end up smelling like dead moss / an aging hippy / tarts handbag?

Luckily none of my worries about Neals Yard perfume were founded and I waltzed out the shop clutching my new find, purse a little lighter and conscience perfectly clear.

 So that's it, I have broken up with Jo and found Neal. After all Neal is much more my type - ethical, against animal cruelty and has no animal by products. I guess in many ways it is like life - you sometimes have to dump the toxic situation which is wrong for you to find your perfect match.

Movie Time (with popcorn recipe).............

There is nothing nicer than curling up with your favourite old movie and a yummy snack. Obviously the only movie snack choice I would consider is of course popcorn. I love popcorn, naturally vegan AND gluten free it is the perfect little treat. Having always loved sweet popcorn I recently fell in love with Proper Corn salted popcorn. The perfect alternative to crisps. Several bags into this new found foodie heaven I started thinking (dangerous I know!) homemade popcorn is a much healthier and far less expensive alternative. Plain popcorn is low in calories, high in fibre and has a high level of polyphenols (antioxidants) which makes it a healthy alternative for snacking. So I decided to pick up some popcorn kernels and attempt to make some popcorn at home.

To make 50g popcorn (2 servings) you will need:

 •50g popcorn kernels

 •2 tablespoons Rapeseed oil

 •1 tablespoon Agave syrup

 •A sprinkle of sea salt

 

Method:

 •Add the oil and syrup to a heavy based saucepan, stir together.

 •Pour the kernels in and swish them around so they are coated with the oil and syrup.

•Place saucepan on a medium heat and fit the lid, (ideally with a steam vent, if not then hold lid slightly open.)

 •Keep moving the pan, so the kernels are constantly moving around, preventing them from burning.

•They will begin to start popping, once the popping slows down to 1-2 pops every few seconds take off the heat, (this usually seems to be after six minutes on the heat.)

 •Wait 30 seconds before transferring to a serving bowl then sprinkle with a small amount of sea salt if desired.

(Recipe from www.theveggieblog.co.uk)

50g (made as above) = 300 calories, 40g carbohydrate, 14g fat, 5g protein, 442 mg sodium, 0g sugar.

 Popcorn can be made completely plain without any syrup or seasoning, but I much prefer it salted! You can uses spices such as ginger and cinnamon to make a sweet, healthier alternative too. It can also be made without oil, just air popped. But rapeseed oil is high in omega oils (essential fatty acids,) which the body cannot produce itself and they are essential for all systems of the body to function. So it has health benefits as well as being tasty.

Small Business Saturday - Juice Plus.....

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

 And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

 Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

 2. It is the ethical choice

 Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

 3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

 Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

 4. You can help build communities

 Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

 5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

 Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

 So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday  I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Tracy of Juice Plus, she says  –

Juice plus vision is inspiring healthy living around the world. You want to eat more healthily but often do not have enough time to plan every meal perfectly. Juice PLUS+ can help: our products bridge the gap between what we eat every day and what we should eat every day

All the ingredients in Juice PLUS+ are harvested when they are fully ripened. That means you get top quality produce directly from the field!

Our proprietary juicing and drying procedure removes water and unusable components and gently concentrates the plant materials. That means that as many nutrients as possible are kept in their natural form and turned into capsule form or added to our protein rich shakes

History

In 1993, the foundations of the company as we know it today were laid down. This was the introduction of Juice PLUS+. Since then, the Juice PLUS+ Company has continued to develop and expand its range of products.

What started as a small direct sales business has now become a successful, global company that helps people live a better life in more than 20 countries.  Our European Head Office in Basel is responsible for co-ordinating our business in all European countries. Dan Holzmann, Partner, CEO & President Europe, has been with Juice PLUS+ from the beginning and continues to oversee its success. Nothing excites him more than being able to have a lasting and positive influence on the quality of people’s lives.

Renowned universities and research institutes around the world have been researching Juice PLUS+ products for more than 20 years. The findings Study Results are published regularly in scientific journals including the British Journal of Nutrition. They have also been tested at over 20 universities all over the world.

The plant based protein gluten free shakes provide you with organic proteins derived from soya, rice, and chickpeas, essential fats and carbohydrates – all in perfect balance. Hence you can replace a complete meal with just 220 calories! The Shakes are available in Vanilla or Chocolate flavour.

Preparing the tasty Shakes is quick and easy: just mix one measuring spoon (35 g) of Juice PLUS+ Complete with 250 ml skimmed milk alternative. Add fruit or crushed ice according to taste – and your Shake is ready!

Juice PLUS+ Complete Shakes are vegan and free from gluten, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, colours, and flavouring.. What's more, they have a low glycaemic index (GI), which is important for a balanced blood sugar level. They make a perfect addition to a vegan diet as most protein shakes are full of nasties. I will be completing the 7 day trial plan vegan style and letting you know how I get on – watch this space!

Happy Earth day!!

 

It's Earth Day 2016 today so it's the perfect time to start thinking about the planet we live on - and how to save it. Every year, more than one billion people across the world mark the event by showing support for environmental protection. Festivals, rallies and outdoor events are held in nearly 200 countries - often, with the support of A-list celebrities and political leaders. Earth Day aims to encourage people across the world to be more environmentally friendly every year on April 22.

 But why do we celebrate Earth Day? And how is it observed by people globally?

 This might mean increasing the amount they recycle, volunteering for a local green project or installing solar panels at their home. The very first event for Earth Day, which was held in America nearly five decades ago following a devastating oil spill, is credited as the beginning of the modern environmental movement. Since its launch, Earth Day has been supported by an array of famous faces, including Hollywood stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Watson. Now it is coordinated globally by the non-profit Earth Day Network, which describes it as ‘the largest secular holiday in the world’. The day has its own flag, which was created by US peace activist John McConnell and, perhaps unsurprisingly, features a picture of the world on it. It also has its own anthems – one of which is performed to the tune of Beethoven’s Ode To Joy, but with lyrics about protecting the planet. For details of events in your area, visit www.earthday.org .

As well as all these festivities on April 22, at least 130 countries are set to sign the Paris Agreement on climate change.The historic agreement, which was adopted by consensus in the French capital in December, will be deposited at the United Nations in New York in a bid to get other countries to sign up to it. It will be open for signature for one year from Earth Day so let’s get signing!

According to the European Commission, the agreement ‘sets out a global action plan to put the world on track to avoid dangerous climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2C’. It is scheduled to come into force in 2020. After the deal was adopted in Paris on December 12, 2015, former deputy prime minister John Prescott referred to it as ‘an historic moment for our planet’. Both China and the United States - the world’s top carbon dioxide emitters – have promised to sign the agreement at the upcoming UN ceremony on Earth Day. French President Francois Hollande is also due to sign it. However, signing is only one step in a tortuous UN process for the deal to come into force. The process requires formal approval by at least 55 nations representing 55 per cent of man-made greenhouse gas emissions.

 Here are six ways to mark Earth Day yourself:

 •Grow your own food (or buy locally-grown produce)

 •Go paperless

 •Plant a tree

 •Stop drinking bottled water

 •Start carpooling (or take up cycling)

 •Invest in a solar-powered phone charger

It is sods law that right as the weekend approaches a cold sore rears its ugly little head. As your face, ears, eyes and body aches, it opens up to its full scab like glory. Sadly for those of us that suffer there is no escaping this demon as they have a pesky habit of returning time after time. Research suggests that many things can contribute to getting cold sores such as stress, exposure to sunshine, exhaustion and wheat. But whatever the reason we get them still won’t stop them coming back when they feel like it. So like with all battles all you can do is be prepared. These are my top 5 vegan / eco-friendly / gluten free remedies that have helped me. I hope they help you too!

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, may help reduce the healing time of a blister and prevent future outbreaks. Most research suggests using a lip balm with at least 1%t lemon balm. I use Hurraw lip balm as it is vegan and organic.  As an alternative, a compress made of a lemon balm infusion (tea) may provide similar benefits.

 Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid. You can find it available as a supplement or in cream form. Studies show that taking lysine supplements can help prevent breakouts and prevent future flare-ups. Experts also say that taking lysine supplements regularly can reduce the intensity of flare-ups. It often goes into the Holland Barrett 1p sale so it is worth stocking up.

Stress Reduction

Because stress can cause the herpes virus (cold sore) to come out of dormancy, reducing the amount of stress in your life is one way to prevent cold sores. Meditation, regular exercise, and avoiding the causes of stress in your life may help.

Ice

Ice may not reduce the duration of a breakout, but it can ease the discomfort and inflammation of cold sores. Apply a cold pack directly to the sores for temporary relief.

 Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is widely available and can be grown as a houseplant. I like Forever Living as it is excellent quality. While research connecting the plant to cold sores is limited, studies have found that applying it topically can aid in healing the cold sore.

La Vida Lissy by Lisamarie.... (guest blog)

I am beyond privileged and excited to be able to share with you this guest post from the beautiful Lisamarie. It has been a wonderful experience to collaborate with such a fabulous person who shares so many of my values. She really is a kind and inspriational vegan. Please feel free to share this blog, give her a follow on social media and support a fellow vegan sister in her journey. This recipe looks amazing and I cannot wait to try it out! So with no further ado let me hand over to her, I hope you enjoy her blog as much as I do…..

Hello! My name is Lisamarie (my Dad loved Elvis) ha - I write a blog called 'La Vida Lissy'. I called it la vida lissy a few years ago because both myself and one of my best friends are nicknamed lissy (lee-see) by our loved ones and it is also about all aspects of my life.

I am a vegan girl with a love of natural beauty and travel currently splitting her time between London & Brighton while exploring Europe. I write posts about just about everything but draw on the knowledge I am accumulating from the nutrition course I am currently undertaking. I love food more than your average person and am constantly whipping up something tasty to share with my loved ones and the world that is Instagram.

I have decided to share my Spinach and Sweet Potato curry recipe. I have made this a few times now and I love it, it's so homely and great for dinner and lunch the next day!

INGREDIENTS

*Coconut oil
*2 sweet potatoes
*a whole bag of organic spinach
*2 tins of chopped tomato 
*2 tablespoons of tomato puree
*a tablespoon of mustard seeds
*5 cloves of garlic finely chopped
*1 medium sized red onion
*1 medium sized white onion
*finely chopped ginger (as much or as little as you like)
*2 tablespoons of cumin powder
*2 tablespoons of garlic powder 
*2 tablespoons of turmeric
*2 tablespoons of chilli powder
*2 tablespoons of chaat masala
*Himalayan salt
*Black pepper

METHOD

1.  Chop all your onion, garlic and ginger up.
2.  Heat some coconut oil up in the pan.
3. Put all your garlic, onion and ginger into the pan to lightly fry.
4. Add your tinned tomatoes and all of the above spices and boil for 5 minutes.
5.  Add the sweet potato and tomato puree and leave to simmer for 35 minutes on a medium heat. Keep stirring.
6.  Add your spinach and leave to simmer for a further 15 minutes.
7. and Voilà, bobs your teapot - it's ready! I put it with some lime and coriander rice, it was just one of those microwave bags because by this point we were ravenous haha. I had the leftovers for lunch the next two days also just on their own and with salad and they both went down a treat!

Small Business Saturday - Blondes Coffee Shop

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday for the next month I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Blondes Coffee Shop -

Situated in the East Riding village of Cottingham this coffee shop is a little slice of heaven ( as is their cake!) Having converted to veganism a while ago now I visited here after many recommendations from vegan and non-vegan friends. , I was happy to say Blondes did not disappoint. As an animal lover I was delighted to see their love of dogs(Blondes is a Vegetarian / vegan dog café) and they are involved not only in the vegan  community but also the local animal community with collection boxes for both money and donations such as dog food, blankets etc . They also have a gift shop which sells beautiful little trinkets which make for super pressies.

Now getting to the food! They always have tons of pastys and cakes (even vegan and gluten free!) too choose from as well as sandwiches, jacket potatoes and toasties; they also have milkshakes (with whipped vegan cream!)  And lots of different teas and coffees made your choice of milk. There is always gluten free bread too for sandwiches which is a winner with me.  The staff are friendly and helpful, often going out of their way to ensure you are happy, the prices are extremely reasonable and with the great location on the high street it's the perfect place for a bite to eat!

Long days, crazy cats & a filling miso soup.......

I would like to say I am one of those people who can come in from a long crazy day at work and make the most amazing meal from scratch, preferably whilst wearing a Nigella esque low cut top and sipping on a chilled wine but I’m not. Like us all some nights do feel like this domestic bliss and others – well, they are like last night. You have had the longest day at work, traffic is crazy busy meaning you are very late home, when you finally get there the fridge is bare despite Sundays food prep and the cat has been sick in the stairs. Delightful! An hour later calm had restored, the carpet cleaned and I was freshly showered wearing my favourite comfies / slippers so it was time to wish for a miracle that the fridge had been fully stocked or that I could make something amazing from nothing. Lucky for me the universe listened and whilst the fridge did not magically refill itself this little creation was born. Is it all homemade – nope? Is it all created from scratch – nope? Was it quick, easy, nutritious and delicious – yep!

Filling Miso Soup (serves 1)

·         ¼ bag of rice noodles (or any noodles you have in – these are gluten free and what I had in)

·         150g of plain firm tofu cut into squares

·         Chopped veg of your choice (I used a stir fry pack ready chopped and prepared)

·         Garlic (I used 1 tsp of lazy garlic)

·         Pinch of paprika

·         TBSP of oil of your choice (I think I used chilli infused)

·         1 sachet of  Yutaka Miso Soup Paste in 300 ml of boiling water

How To –

·         Heat the oil in the pan and add the garlic, paprika and tofu. Cook until the tofu starts to brown.

·         Add the rice noodles and veg to the pan. Cook for 3-4 mins. The veg should stay crunchy and bright.

·         Tip into a bowl of your choice and cover with the miso soup mix. Grab a fork and enjoy!

 

Handmade With Love by Kathleen....(guest blog)

I am beyond privileged and excited to be able to share with you this guest post from the beautiful Kathleen Morse. It has been a wonderful experience to collaborate with such a genuine, kind lady who is an inspirational vegan. Please feel free to share this blog, give her a follow on social media and support a fellow vegan sister in her journey. I hope you enjoy her blog as much as I do…..

Hi, I'm Kathleen, a 30 year old vegan and entrepreneur living in upstate New York with my husband, our two dogs and cat. My husband and I have been vegan since July 2014 and I've recently started a business that was inspired by this journey. I started making my own products at first just for myself. To me it's just like creating recipes for baking which I also enjoy. I wanted to make products that were natural, organic and most of all vegan. I wanted to know exactly what was in the products I was using and that no animal products were used. I have been encouraged by my husband, family and friends who have used my products to take my "hobby" a bit further and that's when Handmade with Love by Kathleen was essentially born.

I am in the process of building my brand and my business. I will be launching an Etsy shop this summer, to start I will only be shipping within the United States however it is in the bigger plan to be able to ship internationally when time allows. I look forward to doing local events like farmers markets and flea markets around my area in New York as well. There is so much in the big plan, but I have to focus on one thing at a time. It's been a blast though. I'm completely enjoying this ride and the support that I have been getting has been huge. We truly can achieve our dreams when we believe. Always remember no ceilings!! I wanted to include a fun recipe for a handmade organic scrub you can make right now! How fun right? I hope you try it and more importantly I hope you push for your dreams!

 

Coffee Sugar Scrub

1/4 Cup (60ml) Organic Coconut Oil

1/2 Cup (120ml) Organic Sugar

1/2 Cup (120ml) Organic Finely Ground Coffee

 

In a medium bowl mash coconut oil until it's light and fluffy in texture. Next pour in the sugar and coffee. Stir all ingredients until they are well combined. To use simply apply the scrub to your hands, arms, legs or feet and exfoliate. Rinse clean. If using in the tub or shower remember to be careful as things might get slippery. You can store in an airtight container.

Facebook- Kathleen Morse
Twitter @K_Morse_Vegan
Blog- www.veganwifeveganlife.blogspot.com
Instagram @handmadewithlovebykathleen and @veganwife.veganlife

Coconut & Chickpea Curry....

 

What happens when you have a random ½ tin of coconut milk loitering at the back of your fridge from a previous baking session? Bin it? Throw it in porridge? Pour it over a homemade vegan brownie? Or wave your magic wand and make this perfect chilly spring evening coconut & chickpea curry? Yeah – I’d go for the last one too! Filling enough to warm you up but light enough for spring this dish is a perfect mid-week go to meal that freezes really well……

Coconut & Chickpea Curry (serves 2)

 •2 tablespoons coconut oil

 •1 large onion, diced

 •3 cloves garlic, minced (I use lazy garlic)

 •2 teaspoons ground coriander

 •1 teaspoon ground cumin

 •1 teaspoon ground turmeric

 •2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed

•2 cans diced tomatoes

 •1 can coconut milk ( I used reduced fat and it worked well)

 •1 large handful of frozen cauliflower

 

How To -

·         Heat the coconut oil in a large pan. Add the onion, garlic, coriander, cumin and turmeric and stir until they're fragrant / starting to brown.

·         Add the chickpeas, tomatoes, coconut milk, and cauliflower. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Uncover and cook 5 minutes more, or until sauce has thickened slightly.

·         Serve with brown rice, quinoa or baked sweet potatoes. Enjoy!

 

Amazing Avocado Pesto.....

At the end of a busy week nothing is nicer than a long bath, a big glass of wine and a super easy dinner with minimal washing up. But before you reach for the takeaway menu / quick jarred sauce / something on toast take a look at this quick and easy pesto. Now I know I have made a pesto before, it is great for a vegan friendly gluten free quick dinner but this time it has gone up the world with a new fancy twist – the avocado. I love / am obsessed with avocado. I will literally put it in anything so when I realised I hadn’t ever thrown it in a pesto I felt I owed it the pleasure. The great thing about pesto is should you have any left over (we rarely do!) it is super on a toasted bagel then new with a few chopped tomatoes.

 

Avocado Pesto (serves 4)

 

 

• Any pasta you like (I used an Edamame Bean Gluten Free)
• 2 Large handfuls of Spinach
• 2 large handfuls of basil
• 1 Large avocado
• 2 TSP of lazy garlic
• 1 TBSP of oil of your choice (I used chilli infused)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 TBSP of lemon juice
• 2 TBSP toasted nuts of your choice (walnuts are amazing!)

 

How To –

 

• Put the pasta in a pan of boiling water and cook until tender.
• Mean while place all the other ingredients in a food processor and blitz until smooth.
• When the pasta is cooked, drain and stir in the pesto mix.
• Serve in big pasta bowls with a large glass of chilled white wine and a simple rocket salad. Enjoy!

Small Business Saturday - Karma Feeling.......

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

 3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

 5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

 So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday for the next month I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Karma Feeling -

I first came across the gorgeous Beverley based brand through my yoga teacher and quickly fell in love with everything I saw. From the stunning jewellery to soy based eco-friendly candles I wanted it all. By their own admission everything they sell is made with love, positive vibes and with the greater good in mind.

They launched in 2013 with the ‘design your own’ crystal bracelet service which gives people the ability to design their own unique piece of jewellery using our crystal prescription lists.  I fell in love with this idea and made my appointment without hesitation. Founder and owner Gaynor made me feel so welcome in her beautiful home and we had a lovely afternoon making my bespoke bracelet, which I still wear daily. A range of ‘ready to wear’ men’s and women’s bracelet collections followed for those who wanted a piece of jewellery for a specific purpose along with our Angel Wing Rosary beads. Handmade soy eco candles (suitable for vegans) were added to the range in 2014.  Karma Feeling love candles but didn’t want to burn ones that were made from paraffin and might contain nasty stuff like lead and parabens.  They also care passionately about animals and wanted to make sure that no ingredients had been tested on them.   They now hand-make all of the candles themselves so they know what’s in them and they smell lush! Their newest addition to the brand is the clothing range.  You can’t beat a good tee and tote but the fashion industry is sadly renowned for damaging the environment and not being particularly nice to its employees.  It took them a while but they found the perfect products which are organic, don’t affect the environment and are fair trade. They are assured that all the people who work hard to make them are given decent pay and do not work excessive hours.  Some items, like the slogan totes, are made from recycled organic cotton and plastic – even better for the planet!

 

Always be Prepared!

As a little girl I was in the Brownies. Every week my best friend and I would skip off to the local school hall to work on our badges, plan for pack holidays and make friends with lots of different people. Now, our first ever Brownie pack holiday was to Matlock Baths in the Derby Dales and that is exactly where I found myself last weekend, 25 years later with the very same(lifelong)  best friend as we met there for a weekend away with our lovely fellas in tow. As we reminisced about our childhood, laughing at all our adventures I realised that the Brownies had taught me something very important for veganism – always be prepared!

As a newbie vegan I quickly learnt that milk alternatives are not readily available, all vegetarian options are generally covered in cheese and chips (believe it or not) get boring very quickly. So in true Mary Poppins style I have learnt to have a bottomless bag and an open mind to I can pretty much manage eat anywhere. So in answer to the question I am so often asked – what’s in the bag?

      

1.       The Bag – 100 % polyurethane from Zara. I love this bag as it big enough to    stash  everything   in and smart enough to use for work.


2.       The diary, work file and note book – Home Bargains. Who doesn’t love pretty stationary and it helps me be organized at work.

3.       The Purse  - 100% recycled from Nat and Matt. I adore this tan purse as it is 100% recycled and 100% stylish. The colour is the perfect shade of tan and it doubles up when needed as a handy clutch bag.


4.       The Handy Tin – Home Bargains. I hate bits and pieces floating in the bottom of my bag so this tin is perfect for pens, post it notes, work calling cards, RAW lipbalm & vegan sugar free mints (M&S)


5.       The Beauty Essentials – Superdrug. Hand cream and body spray to make sure I am always as fresh as a daisy and both vegan.


6.       The Tissues – Superdrug. Patients tears, my tears, runny noses and split drinks are all part of a days work!


7.       The personal diary – Pound Land. The prettiest diary at the tiniest price and helps me be in the right place at the right with my friends.


8.       The tea bags – Assorted. I always carry a stash of vegan friendly teas that don’t require milk so I can have a hot drink anywhere that does not do a diary free alternative. I am working on liking black coffee….


9.       The work mobile – Nokia. Does what it says……


10.   The office keys – key ring by Friend not Food. I just love the key ring and I can’t get into work without the keys so an essential!

Alongside my handbag I also carry a lunch bag and gym bag (yep I am a pack pony!) and I will do the gym bag in a separate post but the lunch bag I never leave home without. Often found in the foot well of my car it contains meals, snacks treats and nibbles for just in case-

 

1.      The Lunch Bag - Primark. Washable and big enough to get plenty of snack in.

2.      The Travel Mug - Pound Land. I love travel mugs as they are super handy. The prettier the better.

3.      The Juice Bottle - B&M. Another bargain and essential to keep hydrated. Also handy for smoothies and juices on the go.

4.      Nuts and Seeds (tub Primark Home) - Make the perfect vegan gluten free snack. High in good fats and will give you plenty of energy.

5.      Home made Kale Chips (tub Home Bargains) - Cheeky nutritious treat.

6.      Wasabi Peas (tub Home Bargains) - Crunchy, spicy and reminds me of my granddad as they were his favourite snack they can easily be added to meals / soups / nibbles if needed.

7.      CLIFF Bar - These are amazing post work out, really tasty and filling with no nasties.

 

I often have rice cakes or oat cakes floating round in there too as well as pieces of fruit / chopped raw veg. So there we have it - the mystery of what's in the bag and how vegans eat solved!