Celebrating all that's Vibrant!

Tuesday’s Tunage: Show Biz Kids (Steely Dan) covered by Ricki Lee Jones

xoxo,
Emily/Mrs. Pleasant

Even if you did overdo it during Thanksgiving weekend. Remember that every day is a new day, guilt just keeps you in the same cycle. Start small, take a brisk 20 minute walk during your lunch break. It’ll energize you through the rest of your day, and you’ll feel better overall.

One of my favorite places in Philly. Walking by on South St, always puts me in a state of awe..xoxoEM

Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake
(Makes 2 pies)

16 ounces tofu cream cheese
1 can - 15 ounces canned Pumpkin Pie Mix (or sub ingredients)
1 3/4 cups soaked raw cashews (soaked overnight in salted water)
3 Tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 graham cracker pie crusts

Maple syrup (optional)

 1. Soak your raw cashews in salted water overnight or at least 6 hours.
They should break apart easily and be tender to bite when properly soaked.

2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

3. Drain your nuts and set aside. Gather all ingredients and set aside as well.

4. In a food processor, add the cream cheese, pumpkin pie mix, cashews and lemon juice.

5. Blend on high until a creamy mixture is reached. Pulse in cinnamon and brown sugar.
(other spices may be added as well).

6. Pour your puree into your two pie crusts.

7. Bake at 375 for 30 minutes. Cool. Place in fridge to firm before serving.

8. Drizzle w/ Maple Syrup (optional) and enjoy!

Tuesday’s Tunage: I got the feeling- James Brown. Redone hilariously on The Cosby Show.
xoxo,
Emily/Mrs. Pleasant

5 ways to not feel guilty after Turkey/Tofurkey Day

1. Eat a snack on your way to dinner (In the car, on the bus/train). You’ll be less likely to pig out on the hors d’oeuvres. As my dad used to say “Don’t fill up on bread”

2. Fill your plate w/ veggies, then go for the turkey. (Or if you don’t eat meat, then go for that extra bowl of soup, like I do) You might already be full.

3. Slow Down!/Listen to your body.  My family dinner are always filled with laughing, so naturally I’m taking breaks between bites. (Bonus: Laughing burns calories) You’ll enjoy your food more. Slower eating also helps you tune into when you’re really satisfied.

4. Catch up with your relatives. (That’s why your there, right?) Take your time, and be in the moment. Being present is that best thing you can do for your body/mind/spirit. Enjoy your food and the company.

5. Eat dessert off of each others plate.  My sister and I dubbed this “taste for a taste” We’re both guilty of wanting to try everything, but usually our eyes are bigger then our stomachs. We each pick 2 things,  (small pieces) and split everything.

xoxo,
Emily/Mrs. Pleasant

Source: standuptofight.tumblr.com via Something on Pinterest

This weeks Tuesdays Tunage is sung by David Crosby, from CSN&Y’s reunion album American Dream, released in 1988.

But like a compass seeking north,
There lives in me a sure still Spirit part.
Clouds of doubt are cut asunder,
By the lightning and the thunder,
Shining from the compass of my heart.

Easing into meal planning will be more beneficial in the long run. If you buy lunch or dinner all the time, start by making 1 meal a week. There are lots of quick (30-40 minute) recipes out there. (Including my site) It’ll take just as long as ordering and waiting in line, plus you get 4 meals out of it! You’ll know exactly what you’re eating and where it came from. Nothing beats a home cooked meal anyway. Just be prepared for compliments from your coworkers.

xoMrs. Pleasant

A great snack or dessert. Also quick and easy for entertaining.
Enjoy!
xoxo
Mrs. Pleasant

The NY Times Food section is the best! I miss Mark Bittman’s recipes/articles, but they still have a lot of great Vegan/Vegetarian recipes. Here’s one that’s perfect for your upcoming holiday party, or (of course) a great appetizer for Turkey Day. I think I’m going to bring this. Enjoy! 

 xoxo 

Emily/Mrs. Pleasant