Bite Back the Chill with Coconut Cashew Bites

Darting in and out of the trees, passing by fishermen in tall boots and green trousers standing out in the river to the right, we ran; climbing over fallen trees and pressing onward up big hills while our feet pressed into small footholds, with the sound of the river's current splashing up against rocks, we ran. Reaching a fallen Douglas fir with a view of the river bed and it's swimmers and feeders, we stopped almost as if the twists and turns previous were lost on us, and the only thing that stopped us from pressing onward were the oversized tracks in the dirt and our own gut feeling. So there, with a view over top seagulls diving into dinner, their shrilling calls louder than my own footfalls and the white of their wings darting back and forth across the rocks, as well as salmon fighting the last push of the current in tattered shape but excellent form for skimming the water and breaking the waves to leap above rocks, we stopped and stretched after running for a while.

I thought at that moment of sinking in to a moment by myself, with only the sounds of each evenings scurry for dinner down at the river, and as I pressed deeper into a stretch, I was almost unaware of my heavy breathing and the half of the run just behind me. 

Although we've been busy every day with my uncle visiting this week, starting from a big breakfast to explore and enjoy the spots of sun that are quickly chased by large clouds of fog, I've had little time to be out running. But this afternoon, after a sunny day by the ocean (because when aren't we near it here!) with farms by the side of the road and alligator soup for lunch, I finally made a break for the orange-tinted tree-lined pathways that sidle up close to the river and wind their way through fields and rocky hills. We've also been lucky with each day out and have only spent one day completely blanketed by fog - a day spent in what is commonly known as "the dark side" of Sooke - and have otherwise enjoyed t-shirts while we tanned on the rocks by Sooke River, a complete sunset overlooking Sooke's Inner Harbour as we sat on a waterfront bench on the Galloping Goose Trail, and today, had lunch in Brentwood Bay on the docks where we sat outside with a clear view into the water filled with sea stars and crabs and even felt the sun's heat with each layer of clothes. I knew the first time when mum and I curled up beside hot coffees and curry gumbo with warm cornbread, looking out from large windows, that we would be back. And so, nearly a month later, we surprised ourselves by sitting out on the large patio above the bay, and peeled back layer after layer under the sun, and squinted for photos being taken in the light.

And so when many people are tucked away under a thick blanket of fog, we're out enjoying the sun and colours of the leaves amidst driving through winding roads and stopping in tea shops for coffee when the thud of the big door behind us leaves us in a room partially historic and somewhat diner-style.

So much exploring also turns up new places where I could sit for hours with a pot of tea, as long as this delicious sunshine that we've had keeps on shining. It would be all that I'd need. 

And maybe a cookie. I like those.

I love combing nuts and fruits, maybe a little sweetener to taste, and even a touch of spice as well, to toss together, mixing and mixing, only to be surprised by the new flavours developing with each new addition, and seeing what is created. I love mixing ingredients to form a delicious treat. Most of all, I love the simple pleasure that comes from creating a dish new to us, but one that lasts so much longer in taste and in memory.

These little cashew bites are like that, a simple method to making delicious cookies, without crazy ingredients, or even the process of baking. So with a warm cup of tea, maybe under a blanket of fog as this week's weather rolls in, a simple cashew bite is just the sweet treat to prepare for October.

Coconut Cashew Bites

{print recipe here}

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makes 8 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup raw cashews (preferably soaked overnight)
1/2 cup shredded coconut
2 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp raw honey (use maple syrup for vegan)

 Directions:

Soak cashews overnight. If using almonds or another type of nut, they don't need to be soaked for this recipe.

In a food processor, blend cashews until they're finely ground. Add coconut and chia seeds, and pulse 2 or 3 times before adding honey, processing again until completely smooth and the mixture begins to fall together from the edges. It should be fairly sticky and able to mold into the bites.

Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 small bite sized balls or cookie shapes, laying evenly out on a plate or parchment lined board. Place in the fridge for approximately 30 minutes to set.

If desired, you can press chocolate shavings, shredded coconut, or chopped fruit on each coconut bite to decorate.

Variations!

Any type of nut can be used in this recipe, however cashews have a much creamier consistancy so I recommend using at least half cashews, or macadamia nuts which are similar, and half another type of nut (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts).

The chia seeds can also be opted out for hemp seeds, flax (ground or whole), or completely removed if preferred. 

Dried fruit is also another favourite of mine to add, as not only does it add flavour and a different consistency, but a little bit of natural sweetness. By favourites are dried apricots, cranberries or dates, which can be blended right in with the nuts in the food processor! I'm usually careful to choose one additional ingredient though, however only for the appearance as too many colours look hectic and somewhat less unappetizing. 

Another favourite of mine is adding a bit of chocolate, and when its melted will also help to forming these little bites. (You can also reduce the amount of honey needed).

Finally, a little sugar and spice always goes far, so try adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, and even some freshly ground ginger or cardamom and cloves to make them chai spiced! 

Enjoy! xx S

On y va... Chocolate Chia Pudding

I have been a little jittery lately, well no, maybe I'm just so relaxed. I'm out of sorts. The end of school is quickly approaching and it's showing up with grad events and everyone's excitement in being so close to the end. I've received acceptance letters to the two universities I applied, and after the stress of sending in the right documents before the right dates, it's such a relief to finally have a big booklet with the word congratulations written in block letters across the front, and my name at the top of a letter inside. (And the bragging rights that goes with it). And now I have finally figured out the program to study in university after a year off travelling and hopefully volunteering across the globe. Who knows where I'll be this time next year. I might be flying to Australia, or set up in a country cottage in Italy enjoying the warmth of that oh so famous Tuscan sun. Or will it be the Amalfie Coast which mum so eloquently describes each chance she gets that will lure me in.

In any case, I've accepted my first choice of university with an entrance scholarship, and things are finally fitting into place. Bit by bit the puzzle is slowly being put together. I can make out a few more flights this summer, and a month full of French, adventure and lots of fun in Quebec. And I'm already starting to think in French, it must be the excitement: I'm creating phrases in my head while brushing my teeth or rolling out the dough for a batch of cookies.

Il y a deux mois et demi jusqu'à je vais voler à Rivière-du-Loup...

And then I get all excited again, and the phrases slip my mind while I think of all the delicious food Montréal and Quebec City have to offer, tucked into neat little cafés and restaurants, a cup of warming hot cocoa in a rounded mug, or a cooling lemonade as it will be summer while I'm there.

I'm getting ready with pommes frites served with marmalade baked brie... A delicious appetiser, and a delicious way to get my mind into action for checking and booking flights and trains. A whole new journey.





I am more than ready to be finished with school, to begin meeting different people and see a whole new part of the world with people of different points of view and lifestyles. I no longer want to feel caught in this collection of bubbles with groups divided into their own soap sud and standing in close knit circles with oblivious and blank expressions. I'll be choosing for myself which path to take, which country to travel to, and the people I'll meet.

Sometimes I forget, even on this blog with no other pressure to write or post any certain thing than from myself, that I should be doing the things which I enjoy.

Step 1: Remind myself daily, this blog is for me. I am writing for myself, and as an outlet of my creative side, my passion for good food, and colourful photography. Sometimes I get caught up in making it perfect, as I do with many other things, and forget to enjoy the beauty of intertwined words and weaved ingredients into a delicious plate of freshly baked gluten free bread. It takes a post that I find difficult to write to help me realise this again, to stop me from focusing on making it like the other successful blogs, and instead focus on what I really want to write about, or what I really want to post.

Step 2: Relax with hot, soothing drinks. I love these most after a long day, feet up, and the dog by my side (as long as she doesn't snore too loudly!) Boil ginger with honey and lemon for something really refreshing, or whip up a quick chai latte with almond milk to rejuvenate and reawaken.

Step 3: This is the fun part! Planning my adventures for next year is what will really get me through these last two months of school, even though I have no doubt that as exams are slowly dealt with, I'll enjoy grad events more and more. And because I love organising with maps and pictures, I'm sure I'll be drawing out lots of plans to prepare the where, when and how of my travels.

Step 4: Don't stress... And this might be hard, but I've learned that things will come into place if they're meant to happen, and good things occur with time. Always. You just have to relax and let it all play out. (And step 4 also includes taking my sister and mum's advice: the little things never turn out to be worth the stress and worry in the end).

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding (With Fried Chai Pears)

Print me here!

Chia and Chai... goes so well together.

For a certain luxury, there's always the pleasure of having dessert during the week. There's an even greater luxury when it's healthy, full of "good-for-you" ingredients, and after a long flight from across the continent. Except I believe that all food is good for you, as long as its real, and unprocessed. That's why I love this little après dinner treat - or it could even be eaten any time - it's so wonderfully delicious and chock-full of nutrients. I missed having some decadent desserts in Cuba, although the food is good, you don't go there for it, and instead of looking at the menu before entering a restaurant, the live music and atmosphere is a greater draw. Once, we had delicious creme caramels after dinner, but after tasting these, I'm sure you'll have satisfied your sweet tooth perfectly.  

Now it might sound a little deceiving to have fried pears, but when you have a basket of ripe pears which were flown halfway across the world and are losing their "flavour" fast, it's time to bring in other means to enjoy the juice of these delicious fruits - even if it means adding a few pinches of spices to the mix. They were traditionally used in food to mask undesirable flavours, so why not put them to use. 

I love using chia seeds in puddings and smoothies, as well as in a pot of overnight oats, because they give it that wonderful pudding-like texture. You could also add in other ingredients, such as shredded coconut, for more crunch and texture, but just make sure you let these babies sit in the fridge for at least 3 hours. We tried half an hour in eagerness, and ended up with half a pudding and half a glass of cold chocolate milk. Delicious no doubt, but also a little unexpected. So be patient! I'm considering trying a blend of nuts and chocolate (perhaps even dates?) to create a base later, and maybe even turn this simple dessert into a decadent tart. Let me know if you try it, and I'll hopefully post it soon!

Serves 2

2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons gluten free hot chocolate powder (or 2 tablespoons raw cocoa powder plus 1 tablespoon maple syrup, divided)
1 1/2 cup almond milk (or alternative)
1 ripe pear, cut into quarters and sliced horizontally
1 teaspoon chai tea spice mix

In two pots or ramekins, we used small mason jars, combine chia seeds, hot chocolate powder, and almond milk. Stir until combined and place in the fridge.

The stirring may take some time to combine the chia seeds and chocolate mix, but it will happen!

Now let them rest! Keep the pudding in the fridge for at least 3 hours. I expect leaving them overnight would have the best results.

20 minutes before serving, heat a frying pan over medium heat and add the sliced pear with spices. Sauté until the pear begins to brown, and serve over top the pudding.

Sit down and relax.

Eat.

Enjoy the delicious and healthy dessert you have created.

xx S.

Coco Loco For Christmas Macaroons

I don't know any other time when the house has been this tidy. Usually, with only mum and I here during the week, and dad home on weekends - my sister home once or twice a year - it stays clean. Especially compared to friend's houses who have little brothers and sisters running throughout the house, throwing toys around and a constant stream of visitors coming and going.

It started Thursday night with mum taking the afternoon off work to tidy and wash, vacuum and scrub the kitchen spotless. I came home from school to washed floors, and had to fight my way into the only dirty spot of the floor to put down my wet and muddy shoes. When the dog came back from playing around outside, dripping wet, she had to be towel-dried quickly before she ran across the wood floors and left little soggy footprints all across.

The house was being cleaned for today, finally the day when my sister comes home! However, the lovely weather outside, a constant drizzle of rain which sometimes switches into a light snowfall and heavy winds, has delayed flights and ferry schedules. Mum and dad remain on Vancouver Island at the moment, stuck between halted schedules due to delays from winds and weather. I couldn't be more surprised, I always thought ferries were very reliable. To make matters more confusing, I couldn't even understand the logistics of it when mum explained, my sisters flight has been delayed as well - I only hope it's not for too long, so that she can still make the connection of her flight to Vancouver. It's only a question of who will actually be on the mainland to be able to pick her up.

And I sit here, the focal point of their return. I woke up early in anticipation, I am so excited to have everyone home again, and to celebrate Christmas before the day with baking and decorating, and hopefully tomorrow we'll even go and get a tree. I've decorated the house with holly branches, of the ones that I could find with berries on, and have begun making Christmas presents. Scraps of fabric litter the craft table - I'm so happy we still have a craft room! - and decorations lay on top of each other across the floor. Two presents per person I've decided, which means lots of time in the back room with busy hands!

This morning I took my dog for an aprés-birthday walk, she turned three yesterday, and we battled the slanted rain and whistling of the wind through the forest trees. In my wool scarf, Olympic mittens from 2010, a red wool headband to cover my ears, big black rubber rain boots and an oversized rain jacket, I braved the weather, and the long walk there and back in the rain. It was a little frightening walking through swaying trees on my way down to the Chocolatier, as I was planning on warming up halfway with the best hot chocolate around, and my dog began darting quickly through the ferns, excited by the smells which were brought in my the movement of the wind, but also began to become wary of the sounds and air gushing past her and pushing her around.

She wasn't very good as I left her outside the shop to get my hot chocolate, and instead of sitting nicely, patiently like other dogs, she howled, whined and jumped up in a flurry of anxiety at being left alone. She could even see me from where she was sitting, through large glass windows, but it wasn't enough. I had to quickly order and pay, comfort her, return for my drink, and leave to soothe her again. She jumped up and pawed at me in excitement, as if I had just returned from being gone a week or more!

Now, she sleeps soundlessly on the rug, tired from running excited circles around me, and pacing lengths of the trail, back and forth past me.

I've dug up a recipe from a while back now, as my day seems to be filled with crafting and putting together Christmas presents while I have the time, and while no one else is home who will spoil their surprise for Christmas Day.

Coconut Macaroons
Print recipe here.

A sweet and delectable treat, that can be made for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or for a tasty appetizer at any party... Your Christmas party may even be the perfect time to whip out this recipe and bake for friends. Soft and chewy, I love macaroons when I crave something sweet, and so do others!

Makes 12 macaroons.

Ingredients

2 eggs whites
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 c brown sugar (I often find store-bought macaroons to be too sweet, so I lowered the amount of sugar in this recipe, however if you would like more sweetness, increase the sugar to 1/2 c)
1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 3/4 c shredded, unsulphured coconut

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl beat together egg whites, vanilla, sugar and nutmeg.

Add coconut and stir to combine.

With a large spoon, drop mixture onto baking sheet, and leave in irregular shapes. Repeat for the rest of mixture, leaving 1 -2 inches between each macaroon.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tops are golden.

Allow to cool for 10-20 minutes because they will be quite crumbly when they first come out from the oven.

Best served with a steaming mug of a Homemade Chai Latte or Spiced Pumpkin Latte.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Reminder of Memories

I was remembering England today, especially those first few days when the rain poured down day after day, a lot like the weather here these past few weeks. I don't know why I thought of it again, must have been missing the friends I made throughout the summer, as well as the simplicity and the enjoyment I got out of being so free - to do what I wanted, and without stresses and dramas to tie me down.

One of my favourite days in England, when patches of clouds brought heavy waterfalls of rain and then dispersed to short lengths of sunshine scattered on the cobbled streets, my aunt and uncle brought me into London by train, and we spent the entire day exploring museums, having cream tea, and ending with a performance at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.

We awoke early to get ready and make our way to the train station, not too far from their house, which would bring us into downtown London, or the ever-expanding Waterloo Station. Since it was a few weeks before the opening of the Olympics, construction workers hammered and drilled above us, and security personnel milled about, watchful. From the station we went down a few flight of stairs, swept up in the force of commuters hurried by their sense of purpose, and arrived at the platform for the underground. It was all a bit confusing for me; the busyness was overwhelming at times, and everyone looked above each other's heads, oblivious to the people around them and absorbed in the importance of their own world.

On trains men talked loudly on cell phones, shouting above the noise of wheels on the tracks as the train lunged then retreated, as if it were an animal itself. Some read, some stood, and one woman knitted, her bony fingers moving faster than my eyes could follow.

We arrived shortly and made our way above ground with a mob of other people, who quickly dispersed as if they were late for an important meeting. They would not remember many of the faces they had just seen, despite sharing a hand grip or ledge to lean on to prevent tumbling with the movement of the train.

My aunt, uncle, and I made our way along the street, and I gazed at the architecture of the old buildings. We don't have buildings like that here, our oldest have been knocked down to make way for modern structures, or preserved as 'ancient' once they reach one hundred years of age, no where near the history that buildings in London posses. Extremely intricate details line the walls and windows of most buildings, although some have begun to fade from age.

We started in the Victoria & Albert Museum, situated across the street from the National History Museum and among others in the same area. Straightaway, we made our way to the Fashion section inside, weaving among sculptures preserved in glass boxes and explained with small plaques stuck below.

Inside, mannequins wore beautiful ballgowns from as far back as the 1800s, and petite shoes, intricately embroidered, were placed delicately beside, too small to be worn by any woman today. They were extremely narrow, and I have no doubt that they were not worn for comfort, and definitely not for the working class as they would not be suitable for outside wear, and perhaps not even for activity. They are a perfect indication that the phrase, 'beauty hurts,' has been a motto for fashions designers throughout the centuries. Pieces form famous designers were also displayed, such as my favourite, a velvet black jumpsuit designed by Coco Chanel. I loved the simplicity of the garment, and the beautiful detailed put into every aspect of it, including the layering and embellishment of the white collar and cuffs. A perfect antithesis to the black of the jumpsuit.

I love fashion, and was in heaven wandering around the passages lined with ensembles and styles from history, and dresses worn by royal figures, such as a suit worn by Princess Diana - a white skirt and matching blazer, covered in tens of thousands of tiny pearls - or celebrities; created for special occasions by famous designers such as Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood.

I noticed a girl, not much older than me, was sitting beside the dresses from red carpet events and sketching in a thick black notebook. She must have been a student at one of the nearby universities, studying fashion perhaps, or maybe she had a passion for the beauty in clothes. If I had more time, I think I would have enjoyed doing the same.

By the time we had finished the exhibition, we ventured outside and to the courtyard of the museum, where families milled about in the hot sun, now free from behind the clouds. Children splashed about in the pond, and vendors sales of cold drinks must have suddenly risen as people became parched from the rising heat. Eventually, after walking around in earnest for a spot for lunch amidst the crowds, we decided that a hot lunch in one of the ornately decorated rooms inside would be more suiting to our day, where the walls were designed with colourful stained glass windows, drawings and letters of another language, and some lines of Shakespeare, in the centre of the dome-shaped room, a large chandelier hung by a thick chain.

Later that afternoon we came for tea at the same location, venturing into another room that was equally as intricately decorated. At lunch we had been enticed by the smells of freshly cooked scones and clotted cream, and since it was before I became gluten-free, not yet aware of the problems it caused my skin, we indulged in the sweet taste of clotted cream tea, and the perfect tranquility of the rooms in an old English building. It was my first clotted cream tea since my previous time in England - three years or so ago - and I enjoyed every moment of it. From people watching, and listening to the different conversations held within my range of hearing and deciphering the stories of those around me, to the decadent Darjeeling tea in my cup and saucer and the mouth-watering scone in my hand, topped with raspberry jam and cream.

Since it was so late in the afternoon, nearing five o'clock, the museum staff were cleaning up the last remaining dishes and washing floors while one man personally informed each party that we were expected to pack up and head out. Luckily, outside was still warm as the sun still shone as we headed out the grand doors and onto the street. We explored the streets of London for some time, killing time until the doors opened for our performance that evening, "London's 'Best Night Out'", Wicked.

The sets were amazing, and the theatre was packed with all ages, little kids came dressed in fancy clothes, boys in smart pants and collared shirts, and little girls in cute dresses with bows in their hair, and some adults dressed to impress. Lights moved across the stage throughout the performance, parts moved to create new scenes, all automatically, such as bridges and new backdrops.

Wicked is the story of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz, also known as Elphaba, and is a detailed account of her life, from childhood to her death, caused by Dorothy. My favourite character was definitely Galinda, a friend of the witch's from university, who later becomes the Good Witch. In the musical we saw, she was ditzy and hilarious, drawing huge amounts of laughter from audience whenever she spoke.

At the end of the musical, everyone poured out onto the streets, some hailing cabs while we, and many others, took the stairs down to the underground and traveled back to the train station, and then caught the train back to my aunt and uncle's house, where we suddenly felt the exhaustion from the day, and were suddenly all very ready for sleep. We needed the next morning all to ourselves, where we could lay in bed until about ten o'clock, and later shuffle around the house in pyjamas until the tea kicked in, readying us for another busy day.

I feel that its a lot like that here, on Saturday mornings, when the whole week, and the loss of sleep that comes with such an early start for school, catches up on you. We read, we watch movies, we have a late breakfast, we have tea, and we get a few chores done.

And I bake. My relaxation method, simply at peace I can cook.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Print Recipe.

I was amazed by the page views on my last cookie recipe, Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies, and as the last of the cookies were eaten I missed them extraordinarily. They were always there when I came home, and were the perfect accompaniment to any tea time.

Decadent and sweet, but not overpoweringly so, these little delights are soft and chewy; the perfect recipe for that perfect chocolate chip cookie, they'll remind you of every good childhood memory, in and out of the kitchen.

Makes 12-14 cookies


Ingredients

1/4 c shortening, or vegan shortening
1/4 c butter, or vegan replacement
3/4 - 1 c brown sugar

100g vanilla yogourt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 2/3 c Nana's Gluten-Free Flour Mix
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4-1/3 c water

2/3 c gluten-free chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together shortening, butter and brown sugar.

Add in the vanilla yogourt and vanilla extract and mix together.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour mix with baking powder and soda, then pour into the larger bowl and stir until all ingredients are well blended.

Add enough water until mixture comes together, but remains moldable and firm.

Stir in chocolate chips.

With your hands, roll small balls of the mixture in your hands, and press onto the baking seet. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.

With a fork, press each cookie down, making a cross-hatched design across the top of each one.

Bake for 16-18 minutes.

When cookies come out from the oven, allow them to cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tray.

Serve to family and friends.

Pumped For Pumpkin

I just saw the page views from last week on my "Pea-Nutter Butter Cookies" Recipe and jumped up, extremely excited - Indonesia to the United States to Russia! It's amazing how many people, who I never imagined, have now seen my recipes. Thank you, to everyone!

Before starting, I was reluctant because I never thought I'd be able to post every week, and stay committed enough to cook every weekend whilst taking photos, but it's become so much more exciting each time, and I approach every post with anticipation for the process. This blog has opened my eyes to things around me that I would never have taken the time to notice before; the beauty of those little things in life, such as small moments that change the day for the better, are especially amazing to experience and ones that I've come to cherish. I've come to appreciate perseverance over procrastination, as the thrill of a popular post far outweighs the comfort of having nothing change, and never taking risks.

It reminds me of the time mum, dad and I looked up from lunch one Sunday to the swaying of a large tree out front of our house. It's one of the largest alders, but tiny branches grown just last spring splayed out from the expanding trunk. Among the branches, his charcoal black coat apparent against the drab brown and golden leaves of the tree, a big squirrel and its even larger tail jumped from branch to branch with vigor and speed, and not one of us knew of his intentions. He climbed higher and higher, to the teetering branches that bounced at the slightest wind, and careened over as the squirrel bounded down the length of it.

"What's he doing!?"

Dad exclaimed, as mum cried out,

"That's amazing!"

I laughed at their excitement, as well as the humor in their expressions, both standing at the window peering up to the trees. You can tell we don't have a TV.

"He's going to get picked off by an eagle..."

Said dad, and I wondered why such a small creature would venture up so high, with so much risk of falling. So much to lose.

"He can't get any food up there can he?"

I asked, "I mean there aren't any nuts or fruit growing on those trees."

"Look he's way at the top!"

Mum shouted excitedly, dashing back to find her camera from a large pile on the counter, an array of written out recipes, pens and schoolbooks.

"That would be a great photo, you can just see the outline of him up there!"

The branch that he was perched on bent precariously under his weight, bowing down ceremoniously. I gasped as he skittered forward, down, so near to losing everything, although so close to reaching the top of the tree.

Just at that moment, with his head tucked underneath the rest of his vertically positioned body, he sprung up and landed at the end of another branch and scurried furiously along it to the trunk of the tree.

A sigh of relief. It was even better than watching a movie.

And with that, after such difficulty and precision in steps, that big squirrel, who we all doubted from the moment the branch began to give way, had completed his journey to the top. Still, his purpose remained unknown, although it seems unlikely that he intended to get a better look at the mountains, or to seek the thrill of being up so high. However to us, he overcame something unattainable. Unbelievable. Extraordinary.

Just like overcoming something in our lives, with adrenaline pumping, we set to high gear. To go. Go. Go. But for some, after days of high heart rates and busy schedules, we rise to an early morning with dropping eyelids and a lagging drive to get up and out of the house.

In contrast to the squirrel, there's nothing behind us, like the fear of falling, to push us to the top, and propel us toward the day. So, for an added boost to my Sunday morning, I combined a bit of coffee, sugar and spice and definitely that something nice! Today, as fall envelopes my senses and imagination for cooking, I scraped the last of puréed pumpkin from the container.

I didn't quite have the energy to purée my own fresh pumpkin. Yet! However Halloween is still coming, and we have not yet carved our pumpkins - so soon!

Spiced Pumpkin Lattes
Print recipe.

A vision for fall:
Crisp air and the soft, gentle glow of the sun against brightly colored leaves. Bundled in warm mittens and scarves we bound through piles of maple leaves that float blissfully through the air as we walk the trails. As gatherings with friends slowly retreat indoors from the unused patio chairs, one treat remains a consistent favorite, and everyone enjoys the comfort of a perfect blend of spices - cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves - smooth, hot, and just enough sweet.

Serves 2

Ingredients

2/3 c brewed coffee
2/3 c almond milk
1 1/3 c water
2 tbsp honey

1/4 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp powdered cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves

3 tbsp puréed pumpkin

Directions

On the stove top, heat the coffee, almond milk, water and honey together
until it begins to boil.

Reduce to a simmer, and add the vanilla, spices and pumpkin.

Simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Pour through a strainer a couple of times to get ride of thickness, and pour into mugs.

Serve.

Egg-specting Today

The morning was cold but awash with sun from the cloudless sky. Down in the Cove I would expect to see swarms of tourists embarking the ferry dock, expectant of markets, shopping, restaurants and many different hikes to await them on the island.

However, to their surprise, it's an even more low-key island than the guide books suggest.

Especially in the fall, when crimson and bronze coloured leaves fall from the towering maple trees, who's trunks take more than five people, arms stretched wide and finger just touching, to wrap around the base. The tourists march their way up to the nearest local, upon being greeted by the few shops at the entrance of the dock, and express their need for another attraction which is generally met with,

"Well you could walk up that hill there..."

Or,

"There happens to be a bus in an hour and half..."

And so, turned away by the thought of walking up, wander around and snap pictures of the picturesque marina, filled with boats that bob like rubber ducks in the bath tub. The prickly wind rustles the leaves of the trees above, and hats fly across the green as surprised victims turn around in wonder.

In time, they'll venture up, rested by the tranquillity and serene atmosphere of this place. No one shouts at one another. People stop their cars in the middle of the street, forcing others behind to carefully manoeuvre around, to have chats with friends and neighbours. Kids and dogs run in the grass, chasing the thrown ball, laughing and barking with excitement.

The walk up to more shops is not long, nor is it strenuous, however it is not what visitors expect to be faced with when they arrive. The core of the island should be located along the beautiful ocean front, where waves lap lazily against the shore, and where most people want to spend their time, looking out from a spot on a bench.

Fall is the season tourists also yearn for a hot drink, coffee and hot chocolate sales rise while the ice cream shops slowly shorten their hours. They ask around, in hope of a place where they can warm up after exploring the well-known and well-worn trails.

Walking into the kitchen this morning, with my hair pulled back into a pony-tail and a sweater snuggling me in, I had stepped into a typical fall day, alight in a warm glow characteristic to this season alone.

Like pumpkins and squash that dot the valley fields in preparation for harvest, warm colours were cast out around the scene from our large windows out front, and leaves rippled on the alders.

Breakfast Eggs
Print recipe. 

Full of vegetables and protein, Breakfast Eggs are a great way to the start the morning right, giving you the energy and nutrients needed for a full day.
I added some chili spice to my eggs for added flavour, which revive the taste buds after sleep, and awaken the senses as well. And since this recipe does not take too long, it can be made before any big day quickly!

I served these with hash browns (recipe soon!), and I bet they would also be yummy on gluten-free toast.

Makes 4 servings.

Ingredients

1/2 tbsp cooking oil, such as grape seed
1 red bell pepper
1/2 white onion, diced
2 tbsp chopped cilantro

5 free-range eggs
1/4 c rice milk
1 tbsp butter, or alternative such as Earth Balance
1/4 - 1/2 tsp of chili powder (depending on how spicy you prefer it)
Salt and pepper

Directions

Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and add the onions and red pepper. Cook until softened, and slightly browned.

In a bowl, beat the eggs with the rice milk, butter and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.

Lower the stove temperature to medium-low, and pour in the egg mixture and sprinkle the cilantro.

Stirring constantly, cook until the eggs come together. This may take longer than you expect, but do not raise the temperature. The eggs will turn out better without such strong heat, resulting in a softer, smoother texture without the rubbery consistency that results from eggs being cooked over high heat.

Just A Simple Thing

I just don't have enough time in the day to cook, that is, unless you count chemistry as cooking. I mean, it's combining ingredients to form something new right?

Which leads me to wonder about what actually happens when the cake is in the oven, or when the baking soda ("Not a milliliter over one teaspoon!") is added to the batter. This chemical reaction is so unknown to me when encased and hidden in a well-greased baking pan and surrounded by 350°F heat I can't venture into without my trusty mittens.

I've had many failures cooking gluten-free lately, especially with the breads when I replace eggs with flax or don't add enough liquid. My chemical reaction is imbalanced. Before the mixture goes into the oven, it seems moist enough (often, too moist), and I think,

"Yes! This is it! It will definitely work!"

But I've learned my lesson: let the batter sit for a while to see whether it is affected by the humidity of the air, and therefor whether it requires more liquid. (You may want to try this, and perhaps it won't even be necessary as the air becomes more humid this fall.)

These gluten-free attempts, not failures simply because I in fact learn from them every time, are probably the most frustrating thing when I bake with the purposes of indulging in my hard work. I crave something sweet RIGHT NOW.

I have this image in my mind of sitting down in a big lounger chair, with the sun streaming through the windows and warming me up while I hold onto a large cup of steaming hot tea. I imagine enjoying a freshly baked piece of gluten-free zucchini loaf in a few moments; expecting to see a baked-to-perfection loaf sitting well-risen in the oven when I open the door, I am disappointed to see only a depleted center. It hasn't risen. It's still crumbly. And I'm exhausted from all the effort.

A lot of my energy has gone into the kitchen recently, cooking as well as cleaning my dirty mixing bowls and sticky measuring spoons, causing me to rethink my usual approach to baking, which formerly began with,

"What's the most difficult thing I can attempt today?"

Because with regular flour it was pretty easy to pull off something gone manic even if it didn't go so well. And it always ended up tasting good.

That's so not the case anymore.

Some flours taste weird... Like vegetables. And as much as the U.S. Congress tries to fight it, pizza still isn't a vegetable, even if my dough tastes like snap peas.

So I decided today I would treat myself to something easily home-baked.

I needed to unwind from my busy days at school, and to relax a bit before sitting down and starting on the continually growing pile of homework. And I'm sure I de-stress the best with a little chocolate in my system.

So I set about finding something amongst our ingredients to make something simple and quick, containing pure enjoyment with each and every bite.

They're delicate, decadent, and desirable.

Ginger Coconut Cranberry Chocolate Clusters
Click here for printable version.

Because these are so quick, they're a perfect go-to treat for guests, family or yourself when craving chocolate!

When setting, these clusters require some space in the fridge, so if it's packed from your latest trip to the grocery, I would recommend clearing a shelf (or half) before you carry your laden tray to the open door and attempt to clear a space with one hand! (And nearly drop all of your little clusters on the floor, to the dog's delight!)

Ingredients

225g dark or milk chocolate chips (depending on your preference of sweetness)

1 c shredded coconut

3/4 c chopped dried cranberries
3/4 c chopped candied ginger

Directions

In a medium size bowl over a pan of simmering water, pour in the chocolate chips until they heat and begin to melt. As the chocolate melts, begin to stir more frequently until it is completely smooth.

While the chocolate melts, line a large baking sheet with parchment, and set aside.

Add in the coconut, mixing in before stirring in the chopped cranberries and ginger.

Once all ingredients are mixed together, drop the mixture onto the baking sheet by using a spoon.

Transfer the sheet to the fridge, and allow the chocolate to cool and harden. (Approximately 30 minutes)

Makes about 18 small clusters

 Next time, I will definitely try different flavors of chocolate. Especially the ones that come around Christmas time: Chai? Mint? Sea salt or caramel? Let me know any other combinations you try!