The Shenandoah Vegan

Saturday, January 28th

2012-01-28T14:44:00.015-05:00

I slept really late so no breakfast, just a really big lunch using one of the two $20 for $40 Groupons to Thai Deelish that I bought this week. During our meal, the regular server disappeared in the middle of our entrees and the new server proceeded to totally ignore us and our empty glasses. That's all it took for me to regret buying that extra Groupon. Ever buy more than one Groupon for a place and then realize you may never want to go back? I started with the Golden Tofu $5.95 - Fried Tofu With a Side of Crushed Peanut Plum Sauce..

My Stir-Fried Sukiyaki $10.95 (Dinner portion) Glass Noodles, Napa Cabbage and Watercress in an exotic Sesame Sauce. Great food, hopefully service will be better next time.

Sorry for the sudden assault of garishness: Boca Chicken Patties and Roasted Cauliflower for dinner.

Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Since the weather was in the 50's, I let the Guineas out and got a few semi-decent pics of them enjoying the sunshine. Tried taking pics of the barn cats today, but none of them turned out.

Coming up tomorrow: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Dessert. Hopefully with a few kitty pics tossed in for extra cuteness.

WTF Friday

2012-01-27T19:00:00.014-05:00

Kashi Autumn Wheat for breakfast with Soy Milk.

WF's Roasted Red Pepper Hummus on a Wegman's Everything Bagel for lunch.

The last of the Skinny Bitch Beef Stew for dinner. I will miss it.

WF's Red Pepper Hummus with Pizzettina Crackers for dessert.

Coming up tomorrow: More carbs, heavy on the gluten and sugar.

Thursday, January 26th

2012-01-26T19:18:00.015-05:00

The usual breakfast...

Lotus Spicy $7.95 Diced Soy Protein sauteed with Dried Tofu, Celery, Organic Carrots, Green and Red Bell Peppers sprinkled with Peanuts in Spicy Kung Pao sauce from Lotus Vegetarian.

The rest of the Hard Times Cafe Chili on Capellini for dinner.

The other half a slice of Orange Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert. Beautifully plated.

Coming up: Working from home. Meaning exciting food stuff found in the fridge.

Wednesday, January 25th

2012-01-25T19:30:00.013-05:00

Everyone will be happy to know I couldn't get a single in focus pic of my breakfast. (It was just the usual Grapefruit & Energy Bite). Lunch went relatively smoothly at The Capital Grille. Thanks for everyone's well wishes. My Vegan Platter $12 - Tofu with Ginger Sauce, Mixed Vegetables and Steamed Rice was oustanding. The item is not on the menu but I'd called in advance to confirm that the chef prepares both vegan and vegetarian entrees upon request. Not my usual M.O. but I had to lay some groundwork. I'm sure I had the best meal in the restaurant today.

Chickpea Cutlets and Sweet Potato Fries with Curry Sauce for dinner.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl for dessert.

So it was a good food day. The end.

WTF Tuesday

2012-01-24T19:40:00.011-05:00

Leftover Tofu Scramble with Soysage for breakfast.

Light Life Smart Deli Sandwich for lunch.

Skinny Bitch Beef Stew for dinner.

Half a Chocolate Chip Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Coming up tomorrow: Taking my Mother out to lunch for her birthday. Will disaster strike? We shall see.

Monday, January 23rd

2012-01-23T19:38:00.011-05:00

Grapefruit & Energy Bite for breakfast..

Lots of good beige food off WF's Salad Bar for lunch.

Chickpea Cutlets and Sweet Potato Fries with Curry Sauce for dinner.

Blessed Mama's Pumpkin Pecan Bread with Chocolate Glaze for dessert.

So I could sum this up by mentioning the amount of carbs, or the Chinese New Year, or Newt Gingrich, but nothing seems to fit. I'll just be back tomorrow with more carb-laden vegan food.

Sunday, January 22nd

2012-01-22T19:22:00.021-05:00

The Fruit Plate $7.29 at Eggspectations for breakfast. Mr SV noted that if I weren't vegan, I'd probably never eat fruit again. That might be pushing it, but veganism has gotten me into ordering things like this Fruit Plate that I never would've thought to do in my 'pregan' days.

On that note, Groupons are to thank for introducing us to Thai Deelish. This is the first restaurant I ever went to using a Groupon that I was willing to return to without a Groupon. Mr. SV and I started with the Golden Tofu $5.95 - Fried Tofu With a Side of Crushed Peanut Plum Sauce..

My Stir-Fried Sukiyaki $8.95 Glass Noodles, Napa Cabbage and Watercress in an exotic Sesame Sauce.

Hard Times Cafe is to thank for creating this Chili Mix that I served on Spaghetti tonight.

TJ's Cherry Cordials for dessert because I was feeling quite cordial today.

So it was a good food weekend.

Saturday, January 21st

2012-01-21T19:11:00.029-05:00

A half inch of snow fell overnight which subsequently kept me inside all day today cooking and doing 'housework'. PPK Puffy Pillow Pancakes with Maple Syrup and overcooked Soysage for breakfast.

WF's Red Pepper Hummus with Pizzettina Crackers for lunch.I've made it a personal rule not to let a winter pass without making at least one batch of Skinny Bitch Beef Stew. This batch needed a little somethin' somethin'. Kitchen Bouquet did the trick.Half a slice of Orange Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Coming up tomorrow: a Groupon-induced breakfast out and a stop in Wegmans.

Friday, January 20th

2012-01-20T19:42:00.011-05:00

Winter citrus is good.

Szechuan Vege-Chicken $8.50 Shredded Vege-Chicken, Celery and Organic Carrots in a Hot Pepper Sauce with Spring Roll from Lotus Vegetarian.

Field Roast Frankfurter and Tater Tots.

Mr. SV was making some Tostadas so I had a couple too.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl for dessert.

I ate it all today.

Thursday, January 19th

2012-01-19T19:33:00.011-05:00

Typical breakfast. Works for me. Currently.

Sometimes you just crave food made by someone else. So I really enjoyed my Butternut Squash and Kale Posole Soup...

and Vegetable Lo Mein from WF's today.

Boca Chicken Patties and Baby Spinach with Goddess Dressing for dinner.

The other half a slice of Coconut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Le Summation: As usual, I got nothin'. Probably explains a lot about my life.

WTF Wednesday

2012-01-18T19:09:00.012-05:00

Now that it appears I may be able to continue working from home two days a week, I'm gonna have to stock up on extra grub to have on hand. Today, I scrounged up TJ's Speculoos and Raspberry Preserves on an Ezekiel English Muffin for breakfast...

Later on, I drained a can of Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis to make Tofu Scramble for lunch. (The Tofu had a July 2011 expiration date, but still tasted fine).

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute (really old and getting tough but still pretty (to look at)) and Steamed Broccoli for dinner.

Half a slice of Coconut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

So while it will be horrible getting up at 4:45am to go sit in my cube all day, it will be nice to eat lunch out tomorrow.

WTF Tuesday

2012-01-17T19:31:00.021-05:00

The last of Sarah Kramers Banana Pancakes with Agave Nectar and Yves Breakfast Patties for breakfast. These Pancakes really stood the test of time (IMO, the pic may not be as appetizing as day one).

Lightlife Bologna with lots of Vegenaisse on a WF's Pretzel Roll for lunch.

Boca Chicken Patties and TJ's Salad Mix with Goddess Dressing for dinner.

Two pieces of Blessed Mama's Pumpkin Pecan Bread with Chocolate Glaze for dessert.

This may not have been the most exciting day in food, but I didn't feel disgusting or depressed by the end of it, so it's win for me.

Monday, January 16th

2012-01-16T19:16:00.006-05:00

Grapefruit segments saluting Spirulina Energy Chunk and in position for breakfast...

PF Changs lunch: Spring Rolls

and MaPo Tofu...

Field Roast Frankfurter and Tater Tots for dinner.

A great food day, which is what this blog is all about: The food. Meaning: I can't think of post summation.

Sunday, January 15th

2012-01-15T19:55:00.012-05:00

After all the exotic grub I ingested yesterday, I had to keep it simple today: Kashi Autumn Wheat for breakfast with Soy Milk...

I even skipped lunch, which it very unusual for me (but I'll make up for it somewhere). Bob's Red Mill Vegi Soup Mix for dinner to which I added Celery, Carrots, Green Pepper and Collard Greens.

Mr. SV liked it, but I thought it was the most boringest soup ever.

Dessert struck that fine balance between 'simple' but 'not boring': Blessed Mama's Pumpkin Pecan Bread with Chocolate Glaze. It is definitely not a cake, it's a bread, with icing, which gives it that element of 'fun' like Blessed Mama's other recipes. I foretell Mr. SV devouring the entire thing while he's home tomorrow.

Speaking of tomorrow, I hope all of you are off work for MLK's birthday. Alas, I am not.

Saturday, January 14th

2012-01-14T19:11:00.011-05:00

A dinner-sized breakfast of Tofu Scramble, Roasted Potatoes and Soysage...

Followed by a huge lunch: the Vegetarian Sampler $16.95 at Jerusalem Cafe. I could say this food tasted as good as it looked, but that would be a lie, so I only ate a tiny bit.

The Side Salad was also just for lookin. We won't be returning. (I really wanted to tear this food a new one. Surprising myself with my restraint).

Tofutti Cream Cheese with Olives on a Wegman's Everything Bagel for dinner. Looks good and was good.

Half a Chocolate Chip Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

After a day like today, I need one of those 2012 raw cleanses.

Friday, January 13th

2012-01-13T19:07:00.007-05:00

A pretty and healthy start to the day...

The 'Express Salad' $5.95 from Guapos Mexican Restaurant for lunch. Topped with Goddess Dressing (I keep a bottle in the fridge at work. Lord knows what my coworkers have done to it).

Leftover Stuffed Shells with lots of Oregano. I dunno about you but, try as I might, I just can't get enough Oregano these days.

Lightlife Bologna with lots and lots of Vegenaisse on WF's Seven Grain Bread for dessert.

I successfully navigated Friday The 13th without calamity. I hope the same is true for my readers.

Thursday, January 12th

2012-01-12T19:51:00.013-05:00

I don't want to insult anyone by stating the obvious:

Next, I must laud my salad making skills today. Pretty and tasty! But then I caved into a bag of Fritos from the vending machine. That wasn't good for me physically or mentally.

No fluorescent overhead light at dinner time: Gardein Scaloppini and Mac & Cheese from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl for dessert. Rich and Chocolatey with just the right amount of PB Chunks.

So, if I had to label it, I'd say it was a 90% good grub day.

WTF Wednesday

2012-01-11T20:46:00.003-05:00

Kashi Autumn Wheat for breakfast with Rice Milk...Lightlife Bologna with lots of Vegenaisse on a WF's Pretzel Roll for lunch.I've had this container of Tofutti Better Than Ricotta Cheese sitting around for about a month..Finally cobbled together some Stuffed Shells with it using various recipes found on the web. I mixed the TBTR with a package of thawed Chopped Spinach, a sauteed Onion & Garlic Clove, some S&P and topped with Prego and Cheddar Daiya. Two thumbs up! Very creamy and delicious! Definitely better than Ricotta Cheese!

A Carob Peanut Butter Cup $1.09 for dessert. Not the best PB Cup I've ever had. Sjaak's was better.

"Life, just like the stars and the planets and the galaxies, is just a temporary structure on the long road from order to disorder" -- Brian Cox. Yeah, we watched that same exact episode again tonight

WTF Tuesday

2012-01-10T19:14:00.013-05:00

Reheated leftovers from several weeks ago for breakfast: Sarah Kramers Banana Pancakes with Agave Nectar and Yves Breakfast Patties. The Pancakes still tasted as great as day one..almost...

Boca Burgers with Mealy Tomato and Oven Fries for lunch...I'm not buying another Tomato till summer...

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Roasted Broccoli for dinner.

Half a Chocolate Chip Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

So my company is letting us work from home two days a week now. Perhaps this is a sign the economy is improving.

Monday, January 9th

2012-01-09T19:01:00.003-05:00

Grapefruit and Energy Bite for breakfast...

Lentil Dal Wrap and Butternut Squash Soup from WF's for lunch...

Carryout 'Kung Pao Chicken' $9.95 from Good Fortune. Can you see the menu?

While the protein was cut into Tofu-like Cubes it had the taste and texture of chicken. Very well executed dish, I am looking forward to going back and tasting more of the menu.

Above was the first half of my dinner. A while after this picture was taken, I ate the second half. So no dessert.

Sunday, January 8th

2012-01-08T19:43:00.016-05:00

No doily can make up for the wretched bowl of gruel served to me this morning. Instant Oatmeal with Brown Sugar $2.29 at "Eggspectations" for breakfast. Back to the Fruit Plate next time...

Another Groupon-induced meal for lunch. This time at Thai Deelish where Mr. SV & I split 'Fresh Rolls' $5.25 Tofu, Cucumbers, Carrots, Celery, Basil, Rice Noodles and Lettuce rolled in Rice Paper, served with Peanut Plum Sauce.

I enjoyed the Green Curry with Tofu $13.95 - Green Beans, Eggplant, Bamboo Shoots and Basil Leaves in Coconut Green Curry over Linguini

Here it is again, reheated with Broccoli, as leftovers for dinner.

I have no explanation as to why I chose to eat the other half of my Snickerdoodle tonight, however, this half was actually chewy! How did they get one half of the cookie crispy and the other half chewy? Tasted great with Peanut Butter too.

Besides the mealy Tomato and $2.29/bowl of Instant Oatmeal, this past weekend has been full of trauma like my 'Check Engine ' light going on in my car, a $550 bill for one of my cats that has chronic constipation requiring multiple enemas and an overnight stay at the vet's, knocking over a glass of wine and splashing it all over my laptop/camera/bedside wall, getting a strange tickle in my throat and being unable to stop coughing at 11pm last night. Lots of good stuff like that. That said, I feel justified in posting mediocre pics of the bathroom-now-barn-cats. Marmalade Umlaut and her two scaredy cat kittens eye me with suspicion as I bring them food, water and fresh litter...

A very dour face on the usually clownish Donovan. He's the only one we're allowed to touch.

The ethereal Mystique. Never stops posing till my camera is able to focus on her...

Remember, these pics were taken upstairs in a barn and the new tenants are relentless in tearing up the place.

Saturday, January 7th

2012-01-07T19:08:00.012-05:00

Tofu Scrambler and Roasted Potatoes $8.95 for breakfast at Cafe Nola..

Carried out a 16 oz container of White Bean Tomato Soup $4.99 from The Common Market for lunch.

It was pretty to look at, but eating wise, not as good as the ingredients would lead one to believe.

Hummus on a toasted Wegman's Everything Bagel for dinner...Mealy Tomato, overly Salty Olives, past-its-prime Spinach...

$1.99 Snickerdoodle for dessert. I just now realized the sign didn't say 'vegan' probably because of the sugar...

I only ate half. It wasn't chewy like a Snickerdoodle should be...

In summation, while not the best food day, this post holds the record for the variety and number of different cameras/cell phones used to cobble together a single day's eats on my blog.

Friday, January 6th

2012-01-06T19:24:00.014-05:00

You know...

Lunch was the 'House Salad Bowl' (Artichokes, Carrots, Tomatoes, Cucumbers and Celery with Balsamic Vinaigrette) $10.95 at Wildfire Restaurant.

Leftovers from aforementioned Salad from lunch with Boca Chickn Patties for dinner ...

Some folks have savory breakfasts, I occasionally do savory desserts.WF's Garlic Hummus with Pizzettina Crackers for dessert.

Ending posts is really wasting a lot of my time. So in the immortal words of VaVa, "I should be back to check in throughout the weekend! I hope you all have a really lovely weekend. I plan on resting and cleaning....then resting again ;) Enjoy!"

Thursday, January 5th

2012-01-05T19:49:00.010-05:00

Usual Breakfast of late..

A Burrito Bowl from Chipotle for lunch..

Candle Cafe Seitan Piccata for dinner. The Seitan part was very delicious. The Rice part had to be choked down.

Half a Chocolate Chip Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

I'm almost two whole days behind on everyone's elses blogs. (Ever wish everyone else would just quit blogging for a while in order for you to catch up?)

WTF Wednesday

2012-01-04T19:20:00.010-05:00

Kashi Autumn Wheat for breakfast with Rice Milk...This was one of the handful of days a year where I'm almost too busy to post my meals...but not quite. I actually didn't have time for lunch! But I made up for it with dinner: the remaining two Quorn Burgers w/Heinz-57, Roasted Green Beans and Mac & Cheese from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Dessert -- TJ's Cinnamon Raisin Swirl with Tofutti Better Than Cream Cheese.

Due to my inability to adequately pay homage to my daily grub, I'm closing down comments on this post so my five to ten readers will not be forced to think of something nice to say, i.e., hey, You! You're off the hook!

Tuesday, January 3rd

2012-01-03T19:13:00.016-05:00

The day started out really positive: an Apple and Energy Chunk for breakfast...Followed by some Steamed Vegetables and Spicy Tofu off the hot bar at WFs for lunch. I was holding it together pretty well.Then it got all 'I can afford to have this for dinner after my light breakfast and lunch' Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes with Sour Supreme...Finally, it just went off the rails with the other half a slice of Chocolate Hazelnut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.Anyone else out there rooting for a fellow blogger on The Bachelor?

Monday, January 2nd

2012-01-02T19:20:00.011-05:00

I thought I had bought a box of Cinnamon Harvest, but this Kashi Autumn Wheat turned out to be pretty tasty. Pay attention, Shoppers!

WF's Garlic Hummus with Olives and Pizzettina Crackers (from Big Lots) for lunch.

Dinner was the Chili Recipe off one of the bags of Soup Mix I bought yesterday.1 1/4 Cups of Beans (boiled and soaked in advance), 15 oz can of Tomato Sauce, Two Garlic Cloves, a Japaleno, Onion, Green Pepper, several sliced Shitakes and some crumbled Veggie Sausage. It wasn't pretty and didn't have Elbow Pasta like Molly's Wisconsin Chili (which was the Chili next on my list to make), but good nonetheless.

Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

So I kept it largely brown but healthy today.

Sunday, January 1st

2012-01-01T19:08:00.011-05:00

The calendar says 2012. My grub says 2011. Toasted TJ's Cinnamon Raisin Swirl with Tofutti Cream Cheese for breakfast.Tostadas with Tofutti Sour Supreme for lunch.Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Roasted Green Beans for dinner.Spent a lot of quality time at Big Lots today. Scored lots of cool deals, including a couple bags of Bob's Red Mill Bean Soup Mix. One of which will become a pot of soup for this week's evening supper in anticipation of a brutal cold snap. Thanks again for all the 'Happy New Year!' comments, they made me feel all warm inside.

Saturday, December 31st

2011-12-31T19:28:00.023-05:00

Reheated leftovers from last week for breakfast: Sarah Kramers Banana Pancakes with Agave Nectar and Yves Breakfast Patties.Fried Chicken and Mac & Cheese $9.80 for lunch at Everlasting Life Cafe. On our last visit here, we saw a man and woman engaged in a public fist fight a few blocks away from the restaurant. Mr. SV was quite excited by this and has been wanting to come back ever since to potentially see it again. Not today, thank you.

My 'Rising Sun' Smoothie $6.60 for the ride home. After all this grub, Mr. SV & I swore off ever eating again.

Toso Brut for imbibage tonight. $9/bottle at WF's.

Green Olive Spread on Rye Crackers to settle my stomach from all the everlasting life goodness.

One vacation day down, two to go.

Friday, December 30th

2011-12-30T19:15:00.007-05:00

On the 364th day of 2011 I enjoyed a Grapefruit & Energy Chunk breakfast.

WF's Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette lunch.

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Baked Potato dinner.

The upcoming three day weekend will go by even faster than the regular two day weekend. Not sure how it does that, but it does.

Thursday, December 29th

2011-12-29T19:19:00.010-05:00

The usual take-to-work breakfast...

A cup of Ribollita...

and a Tossed Spinach Salad from Sweet Green for lunch. (Followed by a 320 Calorie bag of Fritos from the vending machine. That machine is not my friend).

The last of the Clean Food Tofu & Green Beans for dinner. If only my house were as clean as this food.

Half a slice of Chocolate Hazelnut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Still imagining the Quorn company sitting around and evaluating my blog and then deeming it not worthy of their burger giveaway. Yet, mentally, I'm feeling healthier than usual. What Up With That?

WTF Wednesday

2011-12-28T19:02:00.015-05:00

TJ's Speculoos and Raspberry Preserves on a toasted Ezekiel English Muffin for breakfast...

Leftover Clean Food Tofu & Green Beans for lunch. It even reheats cleanly.

Okara Burgers and TJ's Tiny Taters for dinner.

Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

I never get lonely WTFing...Molly...

...Poley...

...Teddy...

aka, 'The Twelve Legs Of Love', stay by my side all day. Yes, I'm ending this post on a maudlin note cuz I got nothin' else.

WTF Tuesday

2011-12-27T19:38:00.009-05:00

The last of Kashi Island Vanilla, with Rice Milk, for breakfast. Now I can finally move on to the superior Cinnamon flavor.

Tostadas made with Daiya Cheddar, TJ's Salsa Verde and Sour Supreme for lunch.

I've been noticing that Quorn has begun sending out free boxes of their new vegan burgers to other bloggers. The company apparently determined I should have to pay for my own burgers.

So I shelled out $4.29 for a box of four and enjoyed two tonight with Heinz-57 and Zucchini Pancakes. My verdict: They're at the Gardein price point, but without the Gardein quality. And that's not my bitterness talking. I don't think. Fortunately, I don't need their handouts.

Then there was some Wegman's Crunch PB on Kavli Rye Crackers just for the helluvit.

Colorful!

Monday, December 26th

2011-12-26T19:50:00.012-05:00

A Groupon-induced breakfast today at Eggspectations where I enjoyed a 'Banango' $6.99 Banana & Mango blended with fresh Orange Juice and Ice...

and the Fruit 'Bowl' $11.99 (had to jack up the cost of Mr. SV & my combined meals to $30). After I got home I bought four more Groupons for this place. Aside from the name, it was a really good restaurant and I love buying stuff on the internet.Lunch was a Veggie Burger Wrap $7.19 at Cheeburger Cheeburger. This was my first time eating in the restaurant, previously, I've done carry-out. It was very busy with lots of little kids so it all felt quite sticky and germy.Mr. SV & I split a medium Fries $3.39. Usually fantastic, these Fries were laden with 'Zesty Seasoning', so I could only eat a couple. Service was terrible. Unlike breakfast, lunch wasn't a hit.Boca Chikn Patties and Steamed Broccoli for dinner.Vegan Peanut Butter Ball for dessert. So what have we determined here today? Anything?

Sunday, December 25th

2011-12-25T19:52:00.009-05:00

Sarah Kramers Banana Pancakes with Agave Nectar and Yves Breakfast Patties for breakfast.

The Frozen Pizza I brought to my Mother's house for lunch.

Boca Burgers with Tomatoes, TJ's Veggie Chili and Teeny Tiny Taters for dinner.

I guess I said 'Merry Christmas' too soon yesterday. 'Merry Christmas'!

Saturday, December 24th

2011-12-24T19:27:00.015-05:00

En route to the mall for a last peek at the Christmas merchandise, Mr. SV & I stopped by WF's for breakfast. My stale Kombucha...

with Tofu Scramble and Potatoes O'Brien. No, I do not know what the O'Briens are up to lately.

Spicy Fried Shrimp (aka, Cha Cha) at Loving Hut $8.50 for lunch (I walked off a few calories between Bloomies & Barnes & Noble earlier).

A bottle of Korbel Champagne...

Field Roast Celebration Roast, Mashed Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts for dinner.

Pecan Pie by local vegan cooking instructor, Mimi Clark, via Loving Hut for dessert.

Merry Christmas to all!

Friday, December 23rd

2011-12-23T19:03:00.007-05:00

No bitter pith in this breakfast.

I ate this Veggie Burger and Fries at Meritage for lunch $13 The bun was actually soft, so that helped me get it all down.

I was beyond thirsty when I got home. This drink didn't make a dent.

Dinner was the Tofu and Green Bean Dish that Ingrid made last week. I made the full recipe (Ten cloves of Garlic and all) but subbed Shitakes for Creminis. Didn't know what the 'All-Purpose Seasoning Mix' entailed, so I just used Crushed Red Pepper Flakes.

Excellent recipe, thanks for photographing the page in the cookbook and posting it on the internet, Ingrid!

Thursday, December 22nd

2011-12-22T19:54:00.009-05:00

Grapefruit and Spirulina Energy Chunk for breakfast."General Tso's Surprise" - Chunks of Soy Protein fried till crispy tossed with hot chili sauce and garnished with Steamed Broccoli comes with Spring Roll. $8.50 from Lotus Vegetarian for lunch.Mr. SV's famous Spaghetti for dinner. He sprinkled Fresh Baby Spinach on top. As you can tell, he has some free time on his hands this week.Anyone doing anything interesting for Christmas? I'm bringing a Frozen Pizza to my Mother's house. Hope I remember to bring the Crushed Red Pepper and Oregano.

WTF Wednesday

2011-12-21T19:31:00.012-05:00

Steel Cut Oats with Raisins for breakfast. The Oats were originally intended solely as a vehicle for TJ's Cranberry Apple Butter per FF's rec. At the last minute, I opted for Raisins. Fascinating, my life is.

Gardein BBQ Pulled Shreds for lunch. The BBQ Sauce is too sweet and bland for my tastes. Won't buy again.

Field Roast Celebration Roast and Brussel Sprouts for dinner.

In other news, I'm apparently turning away from the Vodka and back toward the Red Wine. Specifically, a screw top bottle of: Angeline Merlot from Sonoma County tonight. So speaking of not eating dessert, Miss Rachel has pointed out something new on my horizon: Biscoff Spread. Apparently, it is like Speculoos but without that feeling of being probed. Now that I'm back on the vino, I may just have to start calling her "Rachel". Ergo, this paragraph flows like my mindset from six months ago.

WTF Tuesday

2011-12-20T19:11:00.010-05:00

Based on FF's rec of TJ's Cranberry Apple Butter, breakfast was the aforementioned Butter and Speculoos on a toasty Ezekiel English Muffin.

Although Speculoos is common in Europe, I doubt it will catch on here in the States since it sounds too much like Speculum which is something most people try to avoid.

Lunch was a $1.99 bag of TJ's Champs Elysee Salad mix with FF inspired Pepitas and Goddess Dressing.

A Snyders Pretzel for a snack.

Boca Chikn Patties and Roasted Brussel Sprouts for dinner.

Followed by yet more Pretzels. So much for the gluten-free thing...

Monday, December 19th

2011-12-19T19:05:00.017-05:00

Today started off well with a Grapefruit and a Spirulina Energy Bite.

Then in the interest of Holiday cheer, lunch was carryout from Red Robin. My Boca Burger order was correct, so that was good.But I felt gross from all the Fries, so I bought a bag of Mike & Ikes from the vending machine. Chewy pellets of Sugar, Corn Syrup, Mineral Oil, Wax and Red #40. Felt beyond gross.

Field Roast Celebration Roast and Brussel Sprouts for dinner. Started to feel better.

A Snyders Pretzel for dessert. (Gotta support the sponsors of Watch What Happens Live).

Back on the wagon tomorrow.

Sunday, December 18th

2011-12-18T19:33:00.012-05:00

This morning, I rolled out of bed and headed straight to Target. There is a Starbucks inside our local outpost, so breakfast was a Mocha Soy Frappucino sipped whilst wandering the aisles. Incredible stuff, that Frappucino.

Back at home, Field Roast Frankfurter and Ians Onion Rings for lunch.

Mr. SV made Spaghetti tonight. TJ's Meatless Meatballs on top.

Spaghetti is Mr. SV's signature dish and he hit a home run with tonight's batch - perfectly Al Dente Pasta, Tomato Sauce from local pizza chain LEDO combined with Boca Crumbles. No dessert.

Saturday, December 17th

2011-12-17T16:17:00.007-05:00

Mr SV & I were up and out early today, so we went by Whole Foods for the hot breakfast bar. Tofu Scramble and Potatoes O'Brien (about a pound of food for $6.99/lb).

Lunch was at Mimosa Asian Fusion Restaurant. My Spring Roll $1.50...

and Kung Pao Tofu $5...I wanted to keep the Tofu Theme going so it was Tofu No-Egg Salad on Toast for dinner.

TJ's Cherry Cordials for dessert (had I known it was going to be a Tofu Theme Day, I would've made a Tofu Pie).

It's dark inside that Chocolate shell.

Friday, December 16th

2011-12-16T19:44:00.012-05:00

Lunch was the Veggie Burger at Parkway Deli...

Sometimes I get so thirsty, mere water is not enough to quench it.Field Roast Meatloaf with Heinz-57 Sauce and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

Enough about my eats. Time for bed.

Thursday, December 15th

2011-12-15T19:14:00.014-05:00

So, obviously, I finally digested yesterdays grub. Besides the Grapefruit and Energy Chunk for breakfast, there was a Chipotle Burrito Bowl $6.45 for lunch.

Rising Moon Spinach Ravioli for dinner.

Vegan Peanut Butter Ball for dessert. VaVa's Half Baked Truffles are better, but I had a Groupon for Chocolate.Com.

Almost time for a Charlie Brown Christmas. Watching them skate always really depressed me. So I must watch to see if I'm still responding correctly to this type of emotional input.

WTF Wednesday

2011-12-14T19:13:00.007-05:00

It was the usual Kashi Vanilla this morning. Boca Burgers with TJ's Veggie Chili for lunch.

Gardein Mandarin Orange Crispy Chick'n for dinner. The bag says it serves three (180 per portion) and I ate all three.

Will I ever digest? What have I done to myself?

WTF Tuesday

2011-12-13T19:56:00.022-05:00

Kashi Island Vanilla for breakfast (I have to use up this box of Vanilla before I can return to the superior Cinnamon)...Tofu No-Egg Salad on Toast for lunch...

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf with Heinz-57 Sauce and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

An uplifting video.

Monday, December 12th

2011-12-12T18:33:00.008-05:00

Moroccan Lentil Soup..

and Tofu from WF's for lunch.

Boca Burgers with TJ's Veggie Chili and Purple Potatoes for dinner.Thanks to everyone for the compliments on breakfast yesterday. For those of you that own Waffle Irons, look what I found: Chocolate Stout Farmhouse Waffles.

Sunday, December 11th

2011-12-11T19:27:00.020-05:00

Founding Farmers offers three vegan options on their brunch/breakfast menu. This morning, Mr SV & I ordered all three -- fully intending to box most of it to take home. Turned out, no boxes were necessary. Mr SV had the "Farmers Garden Hash" $10 Roasted Seasonal Vegetables, Spinach, Green Onions, Hashbrowns and Rye Toast. This must've been really good because he refused to share.

My "VegDC Scramble" $12 Simply Seasoned Gardein™ Beefless Burger™, Crumbled Tofu, Sauteed Mushrooms, Onions and Spinach with Rye Toast. This was good, but next time I'll order the 'Farmers Garden Hash' just to see what that selfish behavior is about.

We 75/25 split the "Chocolate Stout Farmhouse Waffle" $8 Signature Iron-Pressed Waffle made with Soymilk and Sam Smith Oatmeal Stout. Topped with Fresh Banana Slices and Homemade Vegan Caramel Sauce. The Waffles were tender and Chocolately. Paired perfectly with the Banana.

For some reason, we both skipped lunch. Dinner was Tostadas made with Daiya Cheddar and Sour Supreme.

The last piece of the WF's Pumpkin Pie for dessert.

The theme today was 'Screw the App, just eat the good stuff'.

Saturday, December 10th

2011-12-10T19:02:00.013-05:00

Salad from Wegman's with Roasted Red Pepper Hummus for lunch.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf with A1 Sauce and Roasted Brussel Sprouts for dinner.It's been almost a year since Susan alerted the internet to Trader Joe's Cherry Cordials being vegan. The candies are seasonal, like a lot of Trader Joe's best items, so I had to wait till now to find them. A childhood favorite, it is great to be able to eat Cherry Cordials again. Thanks, Susan, I never would've thought to check the ingredients on these.

Sort of kept it together today foodwise.

Friday, December 9th

2011-12-09T19:24:00.013-05:00

Lunch was the Hawaiian Burger at Loving Hut. Yeah, not doing the 'Losing It' App today.

Tofurky Italian Sausage with Zucchini, Red Pepper and Rice for dinner. The Sausage was delish, the rest was not.

Dessert was the two complimentary Rose City Chocolates from the Vegetarian Thanksgiving I attended last month.

I'm still too dopey to understand Tumblr, but this website is pretty cool and tickles me.

Thursday, December 8th

2011-12-08T19:26:00.007-05:00

Due to circumstances beyond my control, lunch was a fresh Side Salad from Manhattan Pizza...

alongside a few pounds of Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce. Yes, I ate all the Pasta. I'm a member of the 'Clean Plate Club' and this was the portion served to me.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf and Roasted Cauliflower with Sun-Dried Tomatoes for dinner (don't have to be hungry to eat dinner).

Or dessert. Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Oh how I hope I get back on track tomorrow. If not, I hope it's as delicious a day as today.

WTF Wednesday

2011-12-07T19:00:00.008-05:00

Lots of delicious processed foods today. Kashi Island Vanilla for breakfast...

Okara Burgers and Tater Tots for lunch.

Boca Chik'n Patties and Wacky Mac tossed with Road's End Organic Alfredo Style Chreese for dinner. Not recommending the Chreese, but it tasted better than appearance & texure would've indicated.

Resisting the sweets again. Thanks for the encouragement.

Tuesday, December 6th

2011-12-06T19:37:00.016-05:00

Today was our office Holiday Brunch at the local Sheraton Hotel. I did great loading up on Vegetables and Potatoes, but the Pumpernickel Roll was a big dry impulsive mistake.

Gardein Stuffed Turk'y and the rest of the carryout Mac & Cheese from Everlasting Life Cafe for dinner.(Mr. SV revealed he'd be willing to venture back downtown to go to Everlasting Life Cafe again in our lifetimes!)

Half a slice of Chocolate Hazelnut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert. Devils Food Cake and Sugary White Icing are what dreams are made of.

It was the Pumpernickel Roll that did me in today. Poor judgement. Live & learn.

Monday, December 5th

2011-12-05T19:35:00.006-05:00

The usual (of late) Apple for breakfast. Tofu & Steamed Vegetables from WF's for lunch.

The last of the Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

There is every manner of Cookie/Cake/Pie/Candy/Ice Cream in the kitchen beckoning to me, but I'm keeping it at 1500 calories (not counting the Vodka). So goodnight!

Sunday, December 4th

2011-12-04T19:13:00.029-05:00

Two cups of Grits from House of Light for breakfast (one cup would've been enough but I didn't want to risk it).

Then things went off the rails at lunch. Garlic Soba Noodles with Vegetables $9 from Mimosa Asian Restaurant. I got a box ready to take home half, but wound up eating the entire plate. Made me feel very sleepy.

I was in 'why bother?' mode, so two Tostadas for dinner.

In honor of Ingrid winning VaVa's giveaway, I ate my last Mexican Hot Chocolate Snickerdoodle (stuffed with Wegman's Crunchy PB) for dessert. Ingrid's life just improved considerably.

The Bathroom Cats came through their respective neutering/spaying with flying colors and now just want to wrestle and groom themselves all day. These will probably be the last pics of them, since they'll be moving to the barn soon to reunite with Mom and have lots of room to play.

This guy will be a tough one to not keep in the house. He just wants to love and be loved non-stop.A two-fer.

Their Mom, Marmalade Umlaut, is doing well in the barn. Although, the litter boxes don't seem to be of interest to her.

Saturday, December 3rd

2011-12-03T19:41:00.016-05:00

Oatmeal at Mom's for breakfast. $1.95. I brought my own Pomegranate Arils today and decided that Raisins pair better with Oatmeal, IMO. Can anyone guess what the picture is supposed to be?

WF's Red Pepper Hummus & Celery for lunch. Big Honkin' Olive is looking at you.

Gardein Stuffed Turk'y and Roasted Cauliflower (with Sun-Dried Tomatoes finally. Awesome pairing) for dinner.

I lost patience trying to enter the Hummus quantity in the App (it only took TBSPs), and the Stuffed Turk'y wasn't in there either (280 Calories FTR), but I think I kept it around 1500 calories today not counting the Vodka. Anyway, I have a ton of desserts I wan't to indulge in so bad, but I'm resisting.

Friday, December 2nd

2011-12-02T19:42:00.012-05:00

An 'App'le for Breakfast to enter into my 'App'. (Today's food was all about being found on the 'Lose It' App.)

'Japanese Pan Noodles - Caramelized Udon Noodles in a Sweet Soy Sauce, Broccoli, Carrots, Shiitake Mushrooms, Asian Sprouts, Black Sesame and Cilantro from Noodles & Company. 800 Calories for $7.99. I enjoyed these more than the Indonesian Peanut Saute, although it really wasn't the best. Just wanted some portion control.

Two Gardein Burgers and Purple Oven Fried Potatoes for dinner.(700 Calories)

The remainder of my daily alloted calories were delegated to Vodka. Can't wait to drop all this excess poundage so I can go back to eating lots of dessert. Speaking of which, here's a Groupon to get half off lots of vegan Chocolates. I think I'm gonna go for the PB Balls...

Thursday, December 1st

2011-12-01T19:20:00.013-05:00

Couldn't get it together this morning to take a pic of an Apple and Energy Bite. My WF's Salad for lunch looked good though -- loaded up on Hearts of Palm, Artichokes, Quinoa & Grilled Tofu.

Tostadas for dinner.

The last item carried out from Everlasting Life Cafe, a ten-pound Cinnamon Bun:

It was so ridiculously huge, I had buy this as an oddity. Fortunately, my first piece of the Behemoth Bun was not dry and had lots of Cinnamon and Icing. It should only take four or five months to finish it.

Obviously, the 'Lose It' App on the Droid is not having the desired effect on my food intake. Hoping to really dial it back on the calorie consumption. Could it be this blog be causing me to gain weight?!

WTF Wednesday

2011-11-30T19:19:00.019-05:00

Kashi Island Vanilla for breakfast...

Tofu No-Egg Salad and Potato Salad from Everlasting Life Cafe for lunch.

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

The other half a slice of Blueberry Cheesecake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Coming up: One last item of carryout from Everlasting Life Cafe.

WTF Tuesday

2011-11-29T19:12:00.030-05:00

Picnic food theme. Tofu No-Egg Salad on Toast for Breakfast.

Field Roast Frankfurter and Potato Salad from Everlasting Life Cafe for lunch.

Gardein Crispy Tenders with carryout Mac & Cheese from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Half an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for dessert from... Everlasting Life Cafe! Wow. They incorporated just the right about of sugar and still kept it nice and chewy. I don't know how they do it, and I'm starting to think I don't want to know.

A couple commenters questioned my 'Energy Bite' for Breakfast yesterday. Below is the ingredient list. These types of little Carob Chunks can commonly be found at health food stores. FF got me into them. Gotta give credit where its due.

A few other commenters questioned my Zucchini Pancakes. This recipe was the basis, subbing flax seeds for the eggs and oil for the butter. So, yea, a White & Brown food day can be good!

Monday, November 28th

2011-11-28T19:49:00.009-05:00

An Apple and one of those "Energy Bites" that are really just glorified little Brownies.

Salad from WF's, cuz there was nothing else worth getting there today.

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

WF's Pumpkin Pie for dessert. Still great after all these weeks.

Coming up: More carryout from Everlasting Life Cafe.

Sunday, November 27th

2011-11-27T19:31:00.014-05:00

I brought my own Tofu No-Egg Salad to House of Light to go with my Toasted Bagel $1.95

VaVa Style lunch at home..

Gardein Burgers and Roasted Purple Potatoes for dinner.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

My five day vacation went by faster than tomorrow will go by in its entirety. Thanks for checking out my eats.

Saturday, November 26th

2011-11-26T19:08:00.018-05:00

Oatmeal at Mom's for breakfast. $1.95. Mr. SV suggested I use the Raisins to make a Snoopy face on my hot cereal. Andy Cohen recently drew Snoopy on TV. Mr. SV insists that he too can draw Snoopy, but he really can't.

Lunch was at Everlasting Life Cafe:

When I saw all the hot:

& cold vegan food on display, I got over excited and couldn't think straight.

My 'Rising Sun Smoothie' made with a blend of Tahini, Blackstrap Molasses, Spirulina, Brewer's Yeast and Sweetener $6.60. Awesome.

The Fried Chicken tasted so realistic, it was scary. Don't know how they do it.

Major secret recipe action going on.

Dinner was another carryout entree from the restaurant: Manicotti.

Reheated at home. An astonishing achievement!

I stocked up on a couple side dishes and desserts for the coming week.

Friday, November 25th

2011-11-25T19:44:00.015-05:00

Breakfast was at House of Light. Neither of us is Christian, Mr. SV just loves their Coffee & their Breakfast Burrito. I brought my own Tofutti Cream Cheese to go with the Toasted Bagel $1.95 (whenever I get carryout dressing etc I always save the little containers to use for situations like this).

Lunch was at Mimosa Asian Restaurant. My Spring Roll $1.50:

and Kung Pao Tofu $5 (no I don't eat the Rice)...

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

Here's something to be thankful for: An Old Navy Groupon. Take two Performance Fleece and call me in the morning.

Thursday, November 24th

2011-11-24T19:32:00.034-05:00

Ramped up slowly today, starting with a Banana and PB for breakfast...

We arrived at noon for the Life Affirming Thanksgiving Celebration put on by the Vegetarian Society of D.C.. Below is one of the appetizer stations where there was Cudites, Crackers, Olive Tapenade, Artichoke Hummus & Muhummara.

I liked the Artichoke Hummus the best, Mr. SV preferred the Muhumarra. Seconds were had of both.We snagged two of the three open seats at Karen Davis' table. Terry Cummings, cofounder of Poplar Springs Animal Sanctuary was at the table as well so there was lots of interesting conversation. The five other people at the table were super nice, I just don't know if they have their own websites.

The entire menu was vegan. Everyone was served Butternut Squash Soup (I didn't like this and only had a couple spoonfuls)....

...and a basket of Warm Fresh Baked Rolls was placed on all tables...

When the buffet opened, I loaded up on Wild Striped Mushroom Ravioli with Tomato & Fennel Broth, Vegan Stuffing and Gravy, Savory Tofu Tempeh Patties, Spicy Collard Greens with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Green Bean Casserole. The Ravioli and Stuffing were the two best items, IMO.

Pumpkin Pie for dessert. I prefer WF's brand. So all this was $58/pp (no alcohol, although some tables appeared to have pre-arranged to have bottles of wine). All attendees received a little box of Chocolates and there were door prizes where the best prizes were a Vitamix and an overnight at the Hyatt.

At the end of Will Tuttle's speech, a black man stood up and loudly demanded that Tuttle apologize for making a racist statement. Tuttle had earlier related an amusing story that when he was a young boy his mother told him that the the only vegetarians were in India. Everyone was distressed and upset after that outburst, even though Tuttle expertly shrugged the guy off. We left soon afterward and I forgot some of the pamphlets I'd picked up which was a bummer. It was all very draining, in a different way than a family Thanksgiving is draining. The best part was meeting Karen Davis & Terry Cummings (two women I admire greatly). Can't wait to check out Poplar Springs Sanctuary and am inspired to start my own sanctuary.

Tostadas when we got home. Gonna take a long time to unwind.

Wednesday, November 23rd

2011-11-23T19:17:00.009-05:00

Oatmeal at Mom's for breakfast. $1.95. They gave me some Raisins this time.

Tostadas for lunch.

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast En Croute and Zucchini Pancakes for dinner.

I've begun entering my daily meals in the 'Lose It' App on my Droid, so no dessert tonight.

WTF Tuesday

2011-11-22T19:24:00.010-05:00

Made a big breakfast this morning: Tofu Scramble with Hash Brown and Yves Breakfast Patties.

Mr. SV brought in late lunch/early dinner from Loving Hut. This is the first half of my Club Sandwich $9.50:

Sjaak's PB Cups for dessert.

My Life-Affirming Thanksgiving Plans Revealed: Vegetarian Buffet!

Monday, November 21st

2011-11-21T19:56:00.002-05:00

Lunch was carryout from Granada Cafe. Starting with a super delicious Lentil Soup and a perfectly puffy ball of fresh baked Pita Bread (drink was from the organic market next door)...

The other stuff -- Rice & Peas, Steamed Veggies and an Iceberg Lettuce Side Salad was just so-so. $8.95. Worth it for the Soup & Bread alone. Pretty cool how I now have my desk at work set up so my lunch pics look like interrogation photos.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf, Stuffing and Steamed Broccoli for dinner. Next in my rotation: Pastry Wrapped Celebration Roast, aka, 'The Good Stuff'.

Soy Delicious Mint Marble Fudge with an Uncle Eddie's PB Chocolate Chip Cookie for dessert. Minty foods have been overwhelmingly minty lately. Not sure what that's about. Perhaps my palate has become too refined.

Coming up: For the first time in my entire life (not exaggerating), I get to do what I want on Thanksgiving. What will it be????

Sunday, November 20th

2011-11-20T19:28:00.007-05:00

Still on the Daiya/Tostada kick and loving every minute. Store bought Corn Tortillas are the bomb, BTW. As is bagged Shredded Lettuce.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf, Roasted Brussel Sprouts and a Baked Sweet Potato for dinner.

Blueberry Cheesecake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Bathroom Cats Update: Gorgeous and thriving. Shy One let me stroke her/him for a good long time today. Got some purrrring going.

The Imp has been rubbing up against me and biting my feet! Never thought that would happen.

The Ethereal One is loosening up as well. Always extremely dainty. I've turned them each over this way and that and they all still look like girls to me.
Their Mother, Marmalade Umlaut, is recuperating from her spaying earlier in the week. They must have doped her up real good as she has decided to just stay hunkered down in her litter box and not move. Pics taken earlier today did not turn out well. I'll keep trying. What a stressful few months she has had: Homelessness, Childbirth, Kidnapping, Forced Hysterectomy, More Confinement (in a very weird place). Gotta cut her some slack if she's not feeling up to snuff these days.

Saturday, November 19th

2011-11-19T19:32:00.014-05:00

Oatmeal at Mom's for breakfast. $1.95. I asked if they had any Almond Butter or Pomegranate Arils to spice up the Oatmeal, but they said it wasn't happening.

Hard Times Chili (made from their mix) on Spaghetti at home for lunch.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf, Stuffing and Roasted Cauliflower for dinner.

26 Carob Covered Raisins rolling around on a plate for dessert.

I'll try to shoot more for the rainbow eats tomorrow.

Friday, November 18th

2011-11-18T19:08:00.011-05:00

Korean for lunch: carryout Soft Tofu Soup from Lighthouse Tofu.

Mexican for dinner: Tostadas with Refried Beans and Daiya Pepperjack.

Half a piece of Pumpkin Cake from Vegan Treats via Loving Hut for dessert.

Cute Chow Thanksgiving Chart from last week.

Thursday, November 17th

2011-11-17T19:01:00.010-05:00

WF's had some Veggie Burgers cooked in Gravy on the hot bar today, so I got a huge helping with good old Potatoes O'Brien....

Boca Chickn Patties topped w/WF's Sauce & Cheddar Daiya. Steamed Chard on the side for dinner. I'm rebuilding my relationship with Daiya cheese. Not sure what the renewed interest is all about, but no one can complain that my grub ain't got 'color' -- just that it's not a color normally found in nature.

WF's Pumpkin Pie for dessert.

Most worthwhile thing I did all day: Signing this petition.

WTF Wednesday

2011-11-16T19:13:00.014-05:00

Kashi Island Vanilla for breakfast...

Four Stuffed Grape Leaves for lunch...

as well as two Tostadas. I'd given up on vegan cheese, but the Pepperjack Daiya boasted big promises. These were muy delicioso!

Chickn Scallopini, Roasted Cauliflower and a Baked Potato for dinner.

Sunspire Coconut Bar for dessert.

Yeah, I ate a lot today. Just felt like over-indulging.

WTF Tuesday

2011-11-15T19:44:00.022-05:00

Pepperjack Daiya Cheese Pizzas (on Ezekiel English Muffins) for lunch. Yes, I burnt the roof of my mouth after over baking them. It's de rigueur after forcing vegan cheese to melt.

Field Roast Classic Meatloaf and Roasted Cauliflower for dinner.

I've seriously been straying from this being a 'food only' blog as was my mission statement. Working towards returning to that format. On the too many words front:

Work Stress update: The missed deadline was because I was waiting on legitimate test data. Yesterday afternoon, I realized I didn't need to wait on legitimate data for this particular project. Illegitimate data would have been okay to work with for the past few weeks. Cue unpleasant physical reaction/vomiting personal details to internet. Last night, while I slept, the legitimate test data showed up. This morning, I hastily pushed the project to where it should be and no one was the wiser that it could have gone weeks ago. Phew! WTF Tuesday is safe.

Dessert was Double Chocolate Fudge Cake and Rice Dream Butter Pecan.

Bathroom Cats update: I had signed up MaMa Cat for the Spay Today deal ($64 for Spay & Rabies, plus $20 for Leuk/FIV/Heartworm Test). This morning I dropped her off at Brigg's Animal Adoption Center at 7am . Every other Tuesday, the Center trucks the Dogs & Cats down to Harrisonburg, Virginia for their surgeries. So many people doing the right thing before sunrise. Who knew?

I'll pick her up at Brigg's tomorrow morning and move her into the barn for good. MaMa Cat's legal name: "Marmalade Umlaut". The three kittens have to get a little bit bigger before they can be fixed. The most majorly shy Little Thing:

2nd Most Shy Thing (already seemingly resigned to the demands of being a long-haired white feline):

Bold and brave in the face of litter box cleanings, food & water refreshments and bright flashes. Can't wait to find out if this is a boy or a girl:

Coming up tomorrow: Food and nothing but the food. I'll leave the dramz to the professionals.

Monday, November 14th

2011-11-14T19:40:00.015-05:00

Lunch was a 'Burrito Bowl' from Moe's Southwest Grill. On Mondays, for $5, you get the Bowl and a Beverage. Pretty good deal, but the quality is so far beneath Chipotle, IMHO, I'd rather just pay the extra $1.50 and go to Chipotle.

Gardein Crispy Tenders w/Heinz-57 and Acorn Squash for dinner.

Dessert was a very stale Mystery Truffle.

Anyhoo, remember how last week I was b*tchin' about the threats to take away the extra WFH day if we don't meet our deadlines? Well, funny thing...heh...I think I might have accidentally missed a deadline. Since the realization, at about 3:30pm, 'fight or flight' toxins have been coursing through my veins. Losing the 2nd WFH day would be extra special humiliation I don't need right now and/or the impetus to finally do something with my life. Will keep you informed, Fair Readers.

Sunday, November 13th

2011-11-13T19:32:00.005-05:00

Golden Vermicelli with Lemongrass Protein $7.50 Vermicelli, Golden Roll, Soy Protein, marinated in Lemongrass, Lettuce, Cucumber, Pickle, Roasted Peanuts and Homemade Sauce at Loving Hut for lunch.

Since lunch was so filling, (although I didn't notice any Pickle or Roasted Peanuts) I combined dinner & dessert into one: PB & Banana Sandwich.

The lunch picture was too dark and the dinner picture was too light. Tomorrows pictures will be juuuuust right.

Saturday, November 12th

2011-11-12T19:11:00.011-05:00

Leftover Sloppy Joes open-faced on Ezekiel Sesame Buns for lunch...

Split Pea Soup from Mom's Place for dinner.

A big handful of Carob Covered Raisins for dessert.

I ate the Rainbow yesterday, today I kept with the earth tones.

Friday, November 11th

2011-11-11T19:16:00.023-05:00

Lunch was at Seasons 52. My mother & I split the Portobello, Spinach and Roasted Garlic Flatbread to start.

I had a bowl of the Farmer’s Market Vegetable Soup...and the Organic Mixed Greens Salad with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Tomatoes, Cucumbers and White Balsamic Vinaigrette.A shot glass of Fresh Seasonal Fruit for dessert. Our server, Zendy, was extremely knowledgeable about what was vegan on the menu. Turns out, the bread that comes with the soup has cheese in it, so beware!Leftover Celebration Roast, Roasted Butternut Squash and Chard for dinner.

WF's Pumpkin Pie for dessert.

This was a pretty excellent food day.

Thursday, November 10th

2011-11-10T19:24:00.011-05:00

A Burrito Bowl (with Brown Rice! My first time seeing this locally) from Chipotle for lunch.

Sloppy Joes on Ezekiel Sesame Buns with Tater Tots and Fry Sauce for dinner. The Buns are way too heavy for Sloppy Joes. Totally weighed me down. No room for dessert.

An unnecessarily annoying post on one of our local news sites. Of course, no comments allowed.

WTF Wednesday

2011-11-09T19:42:00.015-05:00

Coconut Curry Marinated Tempeh on Sesame Noodles for lunch.

Boca Chikn Patties and Salad with TJ's Balsamic Vinaigrette for dinner.

Some people wait for Starbucks Egg Nog Lattes to signal the Holidays...

For me, WF's Vegan Pumpkin Pie says 'It's the most wonderful time of the year'.

To add some perspective to my WFH pique from yesterday: the majority of our company works from home. Including my boss. The employees are spread across the U.S.. My internet hissy fit was set off by the emailed implication that we cube dwellers aren't capable of getting our work done from home for more than one day a week. Plus, I'm terrible at expressing myself. Michelle2's work situation definitely sounds worse than mine anyway (although she does have a cafeteria in her building, unlike my workplace, and our company is requiring all employees to take eight hours of personal leave on Veteran's Day).

WTF Tuesday

2011-11-08T19:07:00.011-05:00

My company is allowing us to work from home two days a week till the end of the year. Proviso: If we employees of many years standing (me) don't meet our due dates, they're gonna pull the second WFH day. I would think after many years, everyone has proven they can meet their dates and that working from home would not be the problem if due dates weren't met, but...we're in a recession I'm lucky to have a job got many adorable mouths to feed suck up the toxicity anyone out there hiring? Morningstar Vegan Grillers with TJ's Veggie Chili and Tater Tots for lunch.

Celebration Roast and Roasted Acorn Squash for dinner.

Double Chocolate Fudge Cake and Rice Dream Butter Pecan (in camouflage) for dessert.

Coming up: more prepackaged processed foods (unless I fail to meet my due dates, in which case this blog will get a little more interesting).

Monday, November 7th

2011-11-07T19:47:00.012-05:00

A Veggie Tuna Pocket $2.99 and a Bragg's Cider Drink (better than the last one, I knew to shake it up before drinking this time) and a cup of Morrocan Lentil Soup for lunch.

Dinner from Sunflower-'Curry Supreme' (Chunks of Soy Protein served with Broccoli, Potatoes, Mushrooms, Carrots and Green Peas in a special Japanese Curry Sauce). This was not up to its usual snuff. Mr. SV noticed no difference, but this was definitely not as good as usual. Sumpin' wasn't right.

Plum Pie for dessert. Just two servings left.

If I still titled my posts, I'd label this one a mediocre food day (except for dessert).

Sunday, November 6th

2011-11-06T19:36:00.025-05:00

Lunch was at home today...

Coconut Curry Marinated Tempeh on Sesame Noodles. Tasted really good.

Dinner was inspired by Blessed Mama's Vegetable Salad using some items picked up at the Farmers Market yesterday: Wax Beans, Heirloom Tomatoes and Hydroponic Lettuce. Goddess Dressing drizzled on top.

A Sweet & Sara PB Smore for dessert.

All the cats are still in the downstairs powder room. The litter box is changed twice daily and I'm constantly refreshing food & water. Mama Cat has grown tired of hissing and spitting every time I enter the room, but still despises me.

This little being was caught resting in full view.

These two are harder to catch on camera.

Here's a picture I took today of a Snail on a leaf. Felt Like Zoa when I saw how this pic turned out.

Hilarious Kimmel Video.

Saturday, November 5th

2011-11-05T19:31:00.010-04:00

Lunch was at Mimosa Asian Restaurant in Winchester (they appear to no longer have a web presence). The Spring Roll was $1.50 with the Lunch Special...

which was my $5 Kung Pao Tofu. Pretty great deal. We haven't been here for two years because I had felt the quality to be in decline, but todays meal was excellent value.

A Field Roast Frankfurter and Wegman's Baked Beans for dinner.

PB & Crackers for dessert.

At least tomorrow at this time it will be an hour earlier. Unless you're reading this tomorrow, it which case, it's the correct time.

Friday, November 4th

2011-11-04T19:51:00.013-04:00

So it was just a regular Groupon-induced lunch today at Parkway Deli. The Veggie Burger with Fries & Guac $7.45

Dying of thirst afterwards, I picked up this 290 calorie protein drink.

Gardein Crispy Tenders w/Heinz-57 and Baby Spinach w/Goddess Dressing for dinner.

Blueberry Lemon Creme Cake for dessert.

Here are eleven vegan recipes to peruse. Don't say I never gave you anything (even if it is free public information).

Thursday, November 3rd

2011-11-03T19:20:00.014-04:00

Thanks to Ingrid & Molly for the Noodles and Company ordering advice. I went with the 'Indonesian Peanut Saute' $ 7. 89 - Spicy Peanut Sauce and Rice Noodle Stir-Fry, Broccoli, Carrots, Cabbage, Asian Sprouts, Cilantro, Crushed Peanuts and Lime with Tofu. It was pretty decent. Didnt feel mentally or physically worse off after eating it, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it again either.

The restaurant was giving out free lip balms. Like Muscadine Jelly, this was a new one on me, but my lips were happy for the little gift.

Morningstar Vegan Grillers with TJ's Veggie Chili and a Baked Potato with Sour Supreme for dinner. Now THIS is what I call a delicious meal.

A Half Baked Truffle for dessert.

Coming up tomorrow: Using a Restaurant.Com Coupon for lunch.

WTF Wednesday

2011-11-02T18:51:00.007-04:00

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Olives, Stuffed Grape Leaves and Artisan Crackers for lunch.

Celebration Roast and Roasted Acorn Squash for dinner.

Blueberry Lemon Creme Cake for dessert.

Coming up tomorrow: Will I try the new Noodles and Co that opened near my work? If so, what vegan items do I order? There is much conflicting info on the web.