Ideal Bite | Morning sickness got you spinning?
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Hi Folks,
Check out my article on Ideal Bite. This is a great recipe for Lavender Ginger Ale. This is great if you are dealing with morning sickness or you just need a dose of ginger in your life. Enjoy
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Fashion's Night Out with Vogue Magazine & Tender Shoots Wellness
This event will be a blast. Come join us and bring your fashionable adorned belly along.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Miles for Midwives- A race in support of Midwifery
Join us!!
Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 from 10am-2pm at Bartel-Pritchard Square at Prospect Park South for the 7th Annual Miles for Midwives race co-hosted with the NYC Chapter of the American College of Nurse-Midwives and Choices in Childbirth.
This event is to recognize local midwives and their work as well as promote midwifery access in our communities.
My son was delivered by midwife Stacey Rees of then Elizabeth Seton Childbearing Center and it was an amazing empowering experience. She has since formed Clementine Midwifery practice. I am grateful for having that experience with her.
For more information please visit: www.choicesinchildbirth.org
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Go Organic, Not Broke
From the Farmer's Market to the Super Market- 7 Savvy Tips to set on track to a green diet that is better for you, the planet, and your wallet.
By Latham Thomas
Living green is becoming mainstream yet its still difficult for people to make a switch over to Organic, mostly because the cost. Organic produce can cost up to twice as much as conventional produce because of there aren't subsidies for Organics like there are for conventionally grown food. We think that organic food is expensive, but really conventional food is incredibly cheap.
In the United States, a very small percentage of income goes toward purchasing food: less than 10 percent in 2004, compared with 23 percent in 1929. The federal and state governments heavily participate in and financially support U.S. agricultural production. The prices for our food are unrealistically low and consistent because of big government involvement in the form or subsidies, grants, tax incentives, etc. We pay twice for our food, once to the IRS, and once at the supermarket. Organic produce is more expensive to produce- the cost of seed, fertilizer, pest management, labor- is often more costly than conventional products.
When we pay for organic food, we are paying for the REAL cost of food.
But even with the current cost of organics you can still eat well without breaking the bank. Start saving with these 7 savvy tips and set on track to a greener diet that's better for you, the planet, and your wallet.
1. Can the Middleman
Organic food purveyors, the middlemen and grocers are happy to take advantage of you and charge as much as they can get because they know their product is in demand. Farmer's Markets are a great way to cut the middle man and deal directly with the farmer to purchase your produce at a fair price. Also CSA programs (community supported agriculture) are popping up everywhere. Farmers arrange a flat fee for the season and you essentially purchase a share of the land for the season, which guarantees you quality produce and in some cases meat, or eggs as well. This is a huge money saver for more information check out: www.localharvest.org/csa<http://www.localharvest.org/csa>
2. Wait 'til Late
If you can wait until the end of the day to do your shopping at the Farmer's market you can take advantage of great discounts and deals. Since most farmers will be looking to pack up for the day around 5-6pm they don't want to take back any of their product. Most will do 2 for 1 deals and usually give you the product at your desired price when it's late in the day. The only risk is that the selection may not be ideal since it's the end of the day. For more info on farmer's markets check out: www.localharvest.org<http://www.localharvest.org>
3. Buy No Name Brands
Don't be attached to a certain brand. If your market carries a generic version of the same product, you can save up to 50% by choosing store brands. Whether its Whole Foods, Safeway, or Fry's each supermarket has their own brand. Look for the USDA organic seal of approval which guarantees that a product meets certain standards for pesticide and chemical free practices.
4. Buy in Bulk
Whether you buy from a health food store, supermarket, or food coop, buying from the bulk bins is a great way to stretch your dollar. Many stores have bulk sections where they store whole grains, beans, legumes, seeds, nuts, dried fruits, cookies, nut butters, sweeteners, and spices. Stock up on bulk foods, which saves on packaging, and you can determine the amount you want to purchase and restock as needed.
5. Spend in Season
The best time to buy organic produce is when it is at the pinnacle of its growing season. As the season progresses the price shifts downward and usually drastically- that's the best time to buy at dirt cheap prices. You can also talk farmers down on their prices and buy in bulk, resulting in even more savings. If you end up with too much, you can always freeze, can, or pickle or share it.
6. Clip Coupons
If you are going to save big on organics, you have to become a savvy shopper. Grab all the coupons for organic food that you can find. Check store fliers, Sunday newspaper, food packaging- like Amy's Organics, Cascadian Farm, and Horizon Organic- usually have coupons inside the packaging. Sign-up for their newsletters and collect coupons that way and log on to their sites to see if there are any online offers.
7. Grow your Own
If you really want to save on organics, why not plant your own garden? Whether you grow in window boxes in your city apartment, or in your backyard, growing some of your own produce is empowering and rewarding as well. You can start with herbs, mesclun greens, and root veggies like carrots, beets, which are all easy to grow- remember starting small is key. You want to keep it easy to manage and fun. Visit Seeds of Change, www.seedsofchange.org<http://www.seedsofchange.org> to order a seed catalogue of organic varieties. Visit Organic Gardening, www.organicgardening.com<http://www.organicgardening.com> for more info on getting started with your mini-garden.
Whether you are shopping at the Farmer's market or the supermarket, you are a member of a co-op or CSA, whether its from Whole Foods or homegrown, keep your eye out for savings and don't forget- B.Y.O.B, bring your own bag.
By Latham Thomas
Living green is becoming mainstream yet its still difficult for people to make a switch over to Organic, mostly because the cost. Organic produce can cost up to twice as much as conventional produce because of there aren't subsidies for Organics like there are for conventionally grown food. We think that organic food is expensive, but really conventional food is incredibly cheap.
In the United States, a very small percentage of income goes toward purchasing food: less than 10 percent in 2004, compared with 23 percent in 1929. The federal and state governments heavily participate in and financially support U.S. agricultural production. The prices for our food are unrealistically low and consistent because of big government involvement in the form or subsidies, grants, tax incentives, etc. We pay twice for our food, once to the IRS, and once at the supermarket. Organic produce is more expensive to produce- the cost of seed, fertilizer, pest management, labor- is often more costly than conventional products.
When we pay for organic food, we are paying for the REAL cost of food.
But even with the current cost of organics you can still eat well without breaking the bank. Start saving with these 7 savvy tips and set on track to a greener diet that's better for you, the planet, and your wallet.
1. Can the Middleman
Organic food purveyors, the middlemen and grocers are happy to take advantage of you and charge as much as they can get because they know their product is in demand. Farmer's Markets are a great way to cut the middle man and deal directly with the farmer to purchase your produce at a fair price. Also CSA programs (community supported agriculture) are popping up everywhere. Farmers arrange a flat fee for the season and you essentially purchase a share of the land for the season, which guarantees you quality produce and in some cases meat, or eggs as well. This is a huge money saver for more information check out: www.localharvest.org/csa<http://www.localharvest.org/csa>
2. Wait 'til Late
If you can wait until the end of the day to do your shopping at the Farmer's market you can take advantage of great discounts and deals. Since most farmers will be looking to pack up for the day around 5-6pm they don't want to take back any of their product. Most will do 2 for 1 deals and usually give you the product at your desired price when it's late in the day. The only risk is that the selection may not be ideal since it's the end of the day. For more info on farmer's markets check out: www.localharvest.org<http://www.localharvest.org>
3. Buy No Name Brands
Don't be attached to a certain brand. If your market carries a generic version of the same product, you can save up to 50% by choosing store brands. Whether its Whole Foods, Safeway, or Fry's each supermarket has their own brand. Look for the USDA organic seal of approval which guarantees that a product meets certain standards for pesticide and chemical free practices.
4. Buy in Bulk
Whether you buy from a health food store, supermarket, or food coop, buying from the bulk bins is a great way to stretch your dollar. Many stores have bulk sections where they store whole grains, beans, legumes, seeds, nuts, dried fruits, cookies, nut butters, sweeteners, and spices. Stock up on bulk foods, which saves on packaging, and you can determine the amount you want to purchase and restock as needed.
5. Spend in Season
The best time to buy organic produce is when it is at the pinnacle of its growing season. As the season progresses the price shifts downward and usually drastically- that's the best time to buy at dirt cheap prices. You can also talk farmers down on their prices and buy in bulk, resulting in even more savings. If you end up with too much, you can always freeze, can, or pickle or share it.
6. Clip Coupons
If you are going to save big on organics, you have to become a savvy shopper. Grab all the coupons for organic food that you can find. Check store fliers, Sunday newspaper, food packaging- like Amy's Organics, Cascadian Farm, and Horizon Organic- usually have coupons inside the packaging. Sign-up for their newsletters and collect coupons that way and log on to their sites to see if there are any online offers.
7. Grow your Own
If you really want to save on organics, why not plant your own garden? Whether you grow in window boxes in your city apartment, or in your backyard, growing some of your own produce is empowering and rewarding as well. You can start with herbs, mesclun greens, and root veggies like carrots, beets, which are all easy to grow- remember starting small is key. You want to keep it easy to manage and fun. Visit Seeds of Change, www.seedsofchange.org<http://www.seedsofchange.org> to order a seed catalogue of organic varieties. Visit Organic Gardening, www.organicgardening.com<http://www.organicgardening.com> for more info on getting started with your mini-garden.
Whether you are shopping at the Farmer's market or the supermarket, you are a member of a co-op or CSA, whether its from Whole Foods or homegrown, keep your eye out for savings and don't forget- B.Y.O.B, bring your own bag.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Raw Food Workshop at Soho House, NYC
Today little people gathered at Soho House with their parents to learn to make healthy summer dishes. Our focus was raw foods that are tasty, nutritious, and help us to cool down. We had a range of kids from ages 2-6. All of them were excited about the amazing flavors and colors on their cutting boards. We had a summer theme- and practiced some yoga in between. Below are some of the pictures and recipes.
Watermelon Mint Salad
This sassy summer salad is great for lunch on the go, barbecues, post workout snack, and kids enjoy it too. It's easy to make and tastes great. Watermelon is a powerful food, rich in Vitamin A, B Vitamins, vitamin C, lycopene, magnesium, and potassium.
Sassy Watermelon Mint Salad (prep time 15 minutes)
1 5lb watermelon
1 red onion or vidalia onion
1/2 cup fresh chopped mint
1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
4 tbs fresh lime juice
salt and pepper
(1/2 cup feta cheese, optional)
Cut the watermelon into inch size chunks, slice the onion into thin ring like strips and soak in a bowl of cold water for at least an hour. Discard the water and remove onions. In a large bowl add the watermelon, mint, cilantro, parsley, lime juice, and onions, gently mix then add salt and pepper to taste.
Mango Lettuce Wraps (prep time 30 minutes)
These mini wraps are a great way to bulk up on fiber from greens while experiencing the sweet taste of mango on a warm summer day.
2/3 cup raw chopped cashews 1 handful cilantro leaves
1 tbsp sesame oil 1 handful basil leaves
1/2 cup lemon juice 1/2 handful mint leaves
2 tbsp chopped ginger 1 tbsp shoyu (soy sauce)
1 cup almond butter 1/4 cup agave nectar
1/2 head of cabbage shredded 1 carrot cut into thin pieces
1 mango cut into pieces 6 large collard green leaves
Mix all liquid ingredients on high in blender (agave, lemon juice, ginger, shoyu- then add almond butter) you are looking for a cake-like consistency. Then fold in shredded cabbage. Mix cashews in a separate bowl with sesame oil and sea salt. Cut the center rib away from the collard green leafs and arrange on the cutting board with underside facing up. Arrange cabbage mixture, carrots, mango, cilantro, basil, mint, inside the wrap and fold.
Coconut Acai Ice Pops
8 oz acai puree (can be in packet form)
1/2 cup bluberries
2 cups water
1/2 cup agave nectar
1 cup fresh or canned coconut milk
Place acai berry, blueberries, water, and agave in high speed blender and pulse until you have a smooth mixture. Pour about have the mixture into popsicle molds then top off with the coconut milk. Place the popsicle stick inside and freeze for at least 1 hour. Remove popsicles from mold by gently running the molds under warm water.
Choices in Childbirth Monthly Meeting for Expectant Moms
Choices in Childbirth is pleased to announce June’s free informational meeting for expectant parents:
Inspiring Birth Stories: Coping With Labor/ Comfort Measures
Position, Breath, Movement, Imagery, Massage, Medications?
Are you preparing to give birth and wondering how you’ll work with contractions? Or, is your partner expecting and you are thinking about how you will support her in labor? If so, please join us for an evening of inspiring birth stories
from new parents and hands-on experiences of a range of comfort measures from some of New York’s most practiced doulas.
Date: Monday, June 22nd, 6:15-8:30 PM
Meeting location: West Side Music Together, 102 West 75th Street, Ground Level
Guest presenters: Natashia Fuksman, CD&PCD(DONA), CCE(CEA/MNY); and Angelique Clarke, Certified Reflexologist and Labor Doula, and two new parents whose experience include hospital, birth center and home birth.
Please RSVP to kelly@choicesinchildbirth.org as seating is limited. A small donation for snacks is asked.
Are you preparing to give birth and wondering how you’ll work with contractions? Or, is your partner expecting and you are thinking about how you will support her in labor? If so, please join us for an evening of inspiring birth stories
from new parents and hands-on experiences of a range of comfort measures from some of New York’s most practiced doulas.
Date: Monday, June 22nd, 6:15-8:30 PM
Meeting location: West Side Music Together, 102 West 75th Street, Ground Level
Guest presenters: Natashia Fuksman, CD&PCD(DONA), CCE(CEA/MNY); and Angelique Clarke, Certified Reflexologist and Labor Doula, and two new parents whose experience include hospital, birth center and home birth.
Please RSVP to kelly@choicesinchildbirth.org as seating is limited. A small donation for snacks is asked.
You can print out the flyer on the Choices in Childbirth website: http://www.choicesinchildbirth.org/CIC%20MonthlyMtg_June09.pdf
Hope to see you there!
Hope to see you there!
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