For the love of blogging

The past few days have really reminded me why I love blogging.

I hate to admit it, but I was feeling a little overwhelmed over the weekend (I wasn't alone; my friend and fellow blogger, Carrie, was having similar thoughts).

Maybe it was the crazy weather (Friday was in the 70's. A few days later, the temp dropped into the teens. Today started out with ice and snow flurries, but has since warmed up to a sunny 50 degree day) or perhaps another mess up in the kitchen (at least it resulted in this lovely strawberry cherry dessert, pictured above, alongside the Valentine's message to my hubby I had printed in the local paper years ago) that took its toll on my confidence. Whatever it was, I'm glad to have gotten through it.

I feel recharged, getting my vitamin D naturally (that's sunshine baby!), and ready to conquer another culinary task in my kitchen. This one will be simple, as it is my holiday, too. I promised Matthew his usual cooked (for real; he only does the raw thing one night a week for me. At least that is a step in the right direction) panini sandwich (it's a Valentine's tradition for him; I won't be eating any), but he assured me that the starter and dessert could be raw.

Now, this blog won't be too long, because I've got to get to work preparing for this evening. However, I just wanted to thank everyone for appreciating my blogging.

Of course, I am referring to all your kind comments, but I'm also grateful to those who have mentioned me on their sites, too (you all know who you are; I'd make a list, but I don't want to miss anyone).

Most recently, G and K of Meow Mix in the City (so sorry to say it, but my sister had a hamster by that name when we were little) posted a heart-shaped version of my Trawfoils on their new site (please take a moment to welcome them to the Blogosphere). Look, the cookies even come in chocolate.

Carmella and Heathy (I just adore passing on the spotlight to others, although these two already get their well-deserved share of the limelight) have even posted their personalized touches on some Rawdorable treats. If you have tried and photographed some, give me a shout out as to where I can find them pictured. I love seeing how you make these recipes your own.

Lucky me, I got some more ingredients from NaturalZing in the mail this week. They totally brought a smile to my face, by drawing big hearts, inspiring words and "Shannon Rocks!" across the top and sides of the box. And, I was also happy to find a Raw Cacao & Wild Blue-Green Algae Mayan Spice Wild Bar (say that 10 times fast) inside with my order. Jeff (one of owners) was telling me about them at the Green Festival last fall. I can't wait to try it.

But, not today. I've already eaten a ton of chocolate goodies. I started the day out with a Valentine's green smoothie, followed by a lunch of fresh fruit and cookies (I raided the freezer for the last couple mallomars and some Rawgalongs), and I'll probably close out the evening with yet another cocoa-containing delight (I guess I don't plan on sleeping tonight).

I'll leave you with this song, which always makes me think of my hubby when I hear it (long story, but it was playing on my way home from the grocery store this morning), and my morning smoothie recipe.

Valentine's Green Smoothie
As much greens as you can handle (I add a lot)
2 frozen bananas
a couple handfuls of frozen cherries
a couple handfuls of frozen raspberries
some frozen strawberries
a generous scoop of One Lucky Duck Chocolate Truffle Butter (a gift from my man)
a dash of cayenne (now that's hot)
a little spice is nice (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, etc.)
enough water to get it all going
whatever else you supplement in your a.m. beverage (I added bee pollen, a probiotic, wheat grass and spirulina).

Blend all ingredients until smooth and Enjoy!

By the way, I also wanted to show you this cool shirt Jenny made in my honor. It's a Rawdorable Mary Ann (if you've read this post, you'd understand). She's so talented :-)

Oops, I guess this post did get a little lengthy. Happy Valentine's Day!