Year: 2011

Last Minute Frugal Gift Ideas

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Are you done with your Gift Shopping?

Christmas is just around the corner, and what if you are one of those people, who still have some shopping left to do? Not to mention, some one gave you gifts that you were not expecting and now you feel you ought to buy them something too. I forget sometimes, little something for my neighbors, or mail woman or our gardener and so on. So, now I have to go and get something that gets delivered in time before Christmas eve.

If you are in situation like this, do not panic. Okay, panic for 1 minute then take a deep breath. I think I figured out a few ways we can save the Christmas gift giving. Gift giving does not have to cost a fortune or cause a stress, with little planning and creativity, one can find out last minute frugal gifts that are good for you and recipient.

How to Get Last Minute Gifts Suggestions

Last minute gift ideas will not work for most traditional online shipping ideas, specially if you are short on time. We need gift right NOW, I mean in most day or two, we can not wait for order and wait for shipping to arrive, or can you? Here are some tips that I am exploring for getting last minute gift buying: Hopefully, these tips will help you as well, if you are in similar situation like me.

1. When you have 2-3 days left for shopping:

  • Buy Gifts from Local stores: If you have still few days left before Christmas, you can go to Walmart, Target, Kohls or ToysrUS and buy things and pay for it and give to person just in time.
  • If stores or online stores can do one day shipping for your out of state family and friends, you may want to take that option and pay bit extra for one day shipping.

2. When you have only 1 day or less for shopping:

  • You can go to local grocery store for buying gifts. Yes, grocery stores do sell other things besides groceries, so check it out such as cookware and kitchen gadgets to photo frames.
  • You can go to Gas station or drug store for last minute gifts shopping. Drug stores are sometimes open 24 hours and have perfume, toys, small kitchen gadgets, photo albums and more.
  • If nothing is open, you can go to your local airport, they are open even during Christmas eve as everyone seems to be flying around it. You can purchase books, candies or wine from airport stores last minute.
  • If you buy online gift cards, you can email the card numbers to your relatives who might be living far and they may get gifts right away to use it.
  • Give IOU card, if nothing else works, give them a promise to buy something as soon as possible. This may not work with small child but some adults, so know people’s emotions.
  • You can make something at home such as soup, cookies or jam and use it as a edible gifts.

Last Minute Gift Ideas under $20

Okay, so you decided to try buying a last minute gifts from grocery store, drug store, gas station or air port store, what can you buy there and how much usually it will cost you? While prices of stuff varies by locations, I have found these 20 items under $20 or so, that you can buy from these stores. Sounds like a good plan and last minute solution to many of us.

  1. Candies and Chocolate Boxes
  2. Lotto tickets
  3. Music CDs, Movies
  4. Photo frames and Photo Albums
  5. T-shirts
  6. Caps
  7. Wine and Beer
  8. Magazines and Books
  9. Magazine Subscription
  10. Candles
  11. Small Kitchen Cookware gadgets
  12. Board games
  13. Small toys for kids
  14. Perfume for men and women
  15. Beauty and Makeup kits
  16. Notebook, pens etc
  17. Coffee mug and gourmet Coffee
  18. Clock of various types
  19. Calendar and planners for next year
  20. Plant

Conclusion:

If you have time or chance, buy extra few generic gifts and store it on your garage or extra room for emergency last minute gifts. Otherwise, I hope these tips will be useful to any of you looking for last minute gift ideas.

The best way to not get in to this is either do not do gift giving or buy it now when you have time. Have a great shopping and even better holidays!

 

Image source:  Christmas Gifts

12 Ways for Random Act Of Kindness

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Here are 12 ways of Random Act Of Kindness and Christmas Kindness tips to make you and others life around you little bit sweeter in busy, chaotic December! These are simple ways to cheer someone up and it will not cost you much, but bring you so much inner joy. Random act of kindness works Try it and see it yourself.

12 Ways To Make Someone’s Day: Random Act of Kindness

  1. Smile and say cheery hello to strangers.
  2. Ask and offer help to a parent of crying child
  3. Let someone in line before you.
  4. Pay toll for car behind you.
  5. Buy someone in need a hot meal or make one at home for them
  6. Pick up trash and throw in trash bin
  7. Give warm blankets or extra coat to someone in need (specially people who are homeless or less fortunate)
  8. Say Thank you.
  9. Babysit for busy parent
  10. Sing a happy tune or song  just because(even if you think you can not sing)
  11. Give a hug ( Jadoo’s Jhappi in Hindi Language)
  12. Give or read a inspirational book to someone

Bonus: This is from Valishali from HolyCowVegan.net: If you have blankets or towels to give away, please consider donating them to your local animal shelter. The dogs and cats need them!

I want to share a small video of Jadoo is Jhappi from a Hindi Movie called Munnabhai MBBS. It is a story of guy called Murli Prasad Sharma also known as Munna bhai who is local don wanting to be a doctor. He believes in Jadoo’s Jhappi or magical hugs to bring happiness in his own way. This this short scene, he is at the hospital where he is studying to be doctor with another lady doctor and there is old cleaning person/janitor who is visibly upset from years of tough work and no appreciation. Munna bhai makes him better with his simple appreciation and his Jadoo ki Jhappi.

It is about 1.34 minute long and has english subtitle of those who do not know Hindi.

Jadoo ki Jhappi =Heartfelt Hug Video

 

How are you making someone’s day today?

Zengirl

Image Source: Jochoo

Top Uplifting Holiday Movies To Watch

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Christmas Tradition

I am sure many of you celebrating Christmas or any holidays have some type of tradition to share with family and friends. These beautiful traditions are wonderful as they pass from generation to generation and hold family like a glue. I like reading books and watching movies, specially romantic movies, comedy movies and science fiction movies.

Top Christmas Movies to Watch With Family (Everyone)

I love watching “It is a Wonderful Life” Movie by James Stewart and Donna Reed anytime but during Christmas time it is a perfect for making a tradition.. It is such a uplifting movie that brings more holiday cheer and positive feelings around.

That got me thinking what other Christmas movies are great to watch and thought of sharing some of my favorite movies here. Here are my pick of top great movies to watch together for Christmas Season in random order: Hope you enjoy it.

1. Miracle on 34th Street

This black and white movie came out in 1947 and it is one of my favorite. It is simple story of Santa Claus us trying to prove that he is “Real” in court case. It has romance and also little girl played by Natalie Wood, who believes in Santa Claus so much. The actor Edmund Gwenn, who played Santa Claus did amazing job of looking and acting like Santa Claus would have.

The new color version of this movie was made a while ago, while it is great, I still like the original black and white movie and I am sure you will too.

2. It is a Wonderful Life

It is Wonderful Movie !

As I said, this is our tradition movie that we watch every year, This is not second best Christmas movie, it is just that list is random. I love James Stewart in every movie, even where he played villain in one of the thin man movie. This movie is in our movie gem collection and never loaned to people, as I have lost one copy already, I am that much in love with this movie and it brings so much hope and inspiration when I am feeling down.

if you ever wished or thought, what if you were not born, life would be better for those around you? Most likely not. George Baily is tired of life’s hardship and money problem, as he is about to commit suicide on Christmas eve, his guardian angel make him see how important his life truly is. You can watch on DVD or instantly on you tube or here.

3. Home Alone

This first in series of Home Alone movies, I like this is the best. The McCallister family sleeps in late as few of us do, on the day they plan to travel. They hurry and rush to the airport to barely make for the flight. They sense, something they have forgotten, which turns out to be their youngest son, Kevin. Now, this seems pretty unrealistic as it is hard to forget your child, but I suppose it could happen to any of us when we are stressed out.

Now this little Kevin wakes up to find that he is all alone at home, and somehow he come up brave enough unlike many kids who are lost from their parents. When two thieves try to break in and steal stuff as they assume the house is empty, Kevin foils their attempt with traps and funny physical comedy. Leave your logic aside and simply enjoy this movie.

4. Love Actually

Love actually has six or more stories intermingled in life of various characters. There is an English child who has fallen in love with little American girl, A father who has lost a wife, A married man who has an affair with his secretary, a girl looking for love is bound by family, A Prime minister in love with on of office aids, aging rock star and guy who has been in love with his best friend’s love.

Some stories have happy endings and some do not go anywhere, just like in real life. The best part I like about is, Hugh Grant dancing scene! I have a huge crush on him so I am bit biased. Lovely.

Hugh Grant Dancing Scene

5. Scrooged.

Scrooged is a modern version of Charles Dickens classic book, A Christmas Carol in modern setting. Bill Murry’s character Frank is bitter, cynical and selfish TV executive, who is visited by three ghosts from past, present and future to show him his life in flashbacks and future. It is funny, inspirational movie to make you do right thing in your life. You will love this modern update on old Charles Dickens’ classic novel.

Top Classic Christmas Movies For Children:

Kids are amazingly believe in Santa and they love Christmas time and magic of it all. It is no wonder that there are some great cartoon movies made for children and that we adults also love to watch. Here are some the classics I like.

1. Charlie Brown Christmas

This is simple and cute movie that children and adults will like watching. There is sick little Christmas tree that takes center stage. Charlie brown is told by Lucy that he needs to get a Christmas tree for helping the school Christmas Pageant. Charlie does not want to buy a fake tree, so he goes with Linus and end up buying little, sickly tree. They use and keep this tree despite everyone making a fun of it. Cute and charming story.

2. How Grinch Stole Christmas

How the Grinch Stole Christmas is another great holiday classic cartoon that any kids will love. There is a new version of Jim Carrey movie by the same name and while it is excellent, it might be too scary for little kids. If you have little ones, you may try watching this cute movie. Grinch is mean old thing that wants all the attention and we are supposed to hate him for it, but we end up feeling sorry for him, knowing how lonely he is! Great message and happy ending at the end keeps everyone happy.

3. Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

When I was young, I loved watching this movie so this has a special place in my mind. This movie has a little Rudolph who is little different from other reindeer is made fun of and he goes to a misfit island where all misfit toys are there. He makes friends and helps Santa in foggy night and comes back as a hero. The story has good message and happy ending and lovely song called “Rudolph the Red nose Reindeer”, which I know by heart even now 🙂 I guess I am still child at heart. There are many wonderful classic Christmas cartoon movies that I can watch again with my two little ones.

Rudolph The Red Nose Song:

4. Frosty the Snow man

I remember singing and watching Frosty the snow man, as he was so fun snowman who could talk and was kind. This has voice done by Burl Ives, and made in 1969. This is one of the classic movie that you can watch and enjoy with your kids or nieces and nephews. I like when Frosty says “Happy Birthday” at wrong time, so innocent, so cute.

5. Mickey’s Christmas Carol

This is cartoon and simplified version of Charles Dicken’s classic story A Christmas Carol. Much suitable for young kids as the original story can be pretty scary and harsh for little mind. That is one of the reason I like remake Scrooged as it is not as harsh and we still get the message from the story. Tiny Tim’s character always breaks for heart, as I want him to get better and be happy and root for him and his family.

6. Twas the Night Before Christmas

This is one of the original movie and some of us may have forgotten about it. This is simple cartoon story of mice and Santa who saves Christmas in small town. There is original poem with same name that is classic read everywhere which has memorable song. If you have not seen it, you can put it in your list and share it with kids and family to uplift the mood and bring holiday spirit.

Top Holidays Macho Movies for Guys:

There are some macho, funny and manly Christmas movies to watch if you are more in to action and comedy type of mood. Here are some that men will like;

1. National Lampoons Christmas Vacation

No list would be complete without this classic Chevy Chase’s movie called Christmas Vacation. National Lampoon series has many funny, crazy movies and this one is no exception.

The Griswold family plans a family Christmas is anything but smooth, there are lot of funny and silly moments to enjoy. Chevy Chase’s character Clark has so much bad luck and his clumsy nature makes the holidays go from bad to worse . If that was not enough, he has crazy family house guests makes things even worse. It is holiday with fun and hilarity that will make your own family look lot saner. It stars, Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Juliette Lewis, and Randy Quaid.

2. A Christmas Story

This movie did not do well in theater when it was first released but now it has become a cult classic. I am not sure if I like this as much but I put in here as guys or gals may like it. This movie is an adaptation of the book In “God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash.” Everyone remembers little boy in glasses in this movie. You may enjoy and like it, decide it for yourself. The story is set at some indefinite time around 1940 in an Indiana town approaching the holidays. Young Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) wants only one thing for Christmas, the Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Lightning Loader Range Model Air Rifle with a compass in the stock.  The actors were and are not well known and it is certainly not kid friendly even though kid plays main role in the film. Great for adults who can not agree on what to watch maybe?

3. Die Hard

How come this action movie is a Christmas movie? Because the event folds during Christmas holiday season. It was released in 1988 and made a successful Die hard movie series for Bruce Willis to follow up with. It stars Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, and Bonnie Bedelia.

Bruce’s character, John is a New York cop in Los Angeles for the holidays to be with his family. They go to office party held by his wife’s company for a Christmas party and get trapped by terrorists played by genius Allan Rickman (Listen to his American Accent). John armed and barefoot tries to get help from police and fight terrorists to save his family and other innocent people. Real action pack movie and fun to watch! It Christmasy movie without the Santa and snow but still fun to watch.

4. Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

This movie is amazing master piece if you look at the artistic way this stop and motion section was filmed and it took long time to shoot each sequence. Tim Burton’s this classic is Halloween and Christmas rolled into one.

When Jack, the Halloween king, comes upon a entryway to a Christmas Town, then Jack becomes obsessed with Christmas and decides to do Christmas his way and take over the whole plan. He decides to kidnap Santa so there are no interference to his plan. Jack and his Halloween friends from Halloween town prepare their version of Christmas which is scary and eerie to say the least. The plot is very unique and story has a heart. This movie is not suitable for younger kids, despite having kiddish look of the movie, however, adults will enjoy watching this movie.

5. Elf

Will Ferrell is regular human boy who is raised by an Elf father, played by Bob Newheart. They live in north pole and Will grow up, he is taller than rest of elves and accidentally he becomes more nuisance and destruction around Santa’s workshop. One day he finds out that his biological father lives in New York and sets out to find him. The movie has funny part, touching story and fun to watch! It is not classic Christmas movie, nevertheless entertaining to watch.

 Your turn: What are you favorite Christmas Movies to Watch?

Top 5 Must Read Books On Peace: How To Find Peace

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Freedom from desire leads to inner peace.
– Lao Tse

For all of our lives, we feel something is missing and we chase our dream to make money, fall in love, get a college education, get married, buy house, have kids and so on and yet something remains unfulfilled in many people. That something is peace or we can say mental peace that comes with time.

What Does Peace Mean to You?

Peace is kind of inner sense calm where nothing from outwardly bothers you and you are at peace with your self and world. Peaceful heart should be free from worries, jealousy and boosting. It is inner calm and balance where nothing is overly sad or overly happy. That is what it means to me, while I am long way from achieving this feat, I am trying.

When I gave up my six figure job over 7 years ago, I had thought it was a beginning of my journey to find meaningful purpose and peace within myself. I have read many books, visited websites, attended a few talks and I found some great gems and some that were not worth my time.

I want to share top peace related books for those you might be interested, as not all books are created equally and some books can change your life and belief system in good way and some you wished you can get your wasted time back.

Here are my top peace related books, so you do not have to do trial and error to find motivational reading.

Top 5 Must Read Books on Peace:

This list is based on what I have read out of thousands of books that I have read. I am book worm and love reading in my spare time. I happen to be very fast reader too, so sometimes I have to and like to re-read books that are truly inspiring. This list is in random order;

1. 10 Secrets for Success and Inner Peace

This book has written by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, who has written many books on self development, and has appeared in many television and radio shows such as The Today Show, The Tonight Show, and Oprah. I usually stay away from trendy things so I had not read any of his books, until a friend of gave me her copy to read it. It is simply great and shares 10 (not so much) secrets to have inner peace.

The book is about 158 pages, that reveals 10 basic steps or principles of changing the perception or outlook in our life. It is simple, although it is about peace, happiness comes along with it. Some of the secret focuses on having an open mind, avoiding weak thoughts, attach to nothing and gaining wisdom to forget your own history, treat yourself as you like to be and so on. I like how the each chapter he starts with simple yet profound quotes that makes a perfect sense.

This book is easy read in one lazy afternoon and shows many ways to bring peace, positivity and happiness all in rolled in one. One issue I have with this book is that Dr. Dyer does not show how to change certain behavior, I think he assumes that reader already knows how to do it. Being happy or bringing peaceful mind is certainly long journey that can not be achieved in one day. This book sure bring one step closer to finding inner peace.

2. How to Stop Worrying and Start Living (Revised Edition)

This is amazing book by my favorite author Dale Carnegie. I had first read it in teen years but easily forgotten in my busy teen life. It was not until, I took a Dale Carnegie leadership Workshop early in my career and then I begin co-teaching the workshop as an assistant, I truly realize how powerful this book and its message is.

You may think this is worry book, why it is in peace section? Without letting go of worry, we can not be at peace and believe me after reading and re-reading this book again, you will find peace as you let go of some of silly concerns and worries that we all tend to have.

Book begins with  “Those who don’t know how to fight worry, die young.” If you have read How to Win friends by Dale you will know, this book has same good old common sense, interviews with famous people, heartfelt advice and solutions. He does not teach you, he makes you feel like we are learning together, without making you feel guilty and silly over our worries and concern. This book is must for many home library, it is in mine.(Amzn.)

3. Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

This is written by Thich Nhat Hanh, whom I had not known much about until I started reading Zen Habits. He recommended this book, so I had to go get and read it. This book really spoke to my inner calm and encouraged mental inner peace. We are looking for peace and happiness outward, no wonder we do not find it. Peace and happiness comes from within us, once we remove the clutter from our life, and mind.

Modern living has made us lose touch with our true self and peace within us. Thich Nhat Hanh is Zen Master, author and spiritual master who shows us how every moment can be turned in positive instead of annoying one. For him a ringing phone can be a signal to call us back to our true selves. According to him even dirty dishes, traffic lights are process to keep our conscious to stay alive to present reality. So, next time, you are stuck at red light, sit back and smile….One thing I like about this book’s method is, that process starts where-ever you might be, if I am with a toddler in kitchen, I can still get deep meditative presence and I like that. He also shows, how to increase awareness through conscious breathing which is huge step towards inner joy. World around has its beauty and its horrors but we can still find stillness and peace, this book makes me optimistic and it will do similar thing to you. (Amzn.)

4. World Peace Diet: Eating for Spiritual Health and Social Harmony

Why food book in peace section? It is because it is true that we are what we eat, really! Food is our most intimate and telling connection both with the living natural order, being compassionate with earth and with our living cultural heritage . By eating the plants and animals of our earth, we literally incorporate these principles.

Doctor Will Tuttle’s World Peace Diet is unlike any other “diet book” that you will ever read. Diet Books such as Dr. Atkins, The South Beach Diet attempt to give the reader guidance on how to lose weight. However, they fail to spell out the psychological health, ethical, environmental, and spiritual implications of their guidance. The World Peace Diet suggests how we as a species might move our consciousness forward so that we can be more free, more intelligent, more loving, and happier in the choices we make.  Make peace with earth and our body and eat diet that is good for us, earth and other living beings so that we can be in harmony and at peace.

5. Peace of Mind: Healing of Broken Lives

This book was strongly recommended by elderly uncle about 2 years ago, when we were without any income and little P was having lot of health and breathing issues. Trying to find silver lining between unemployment and sick child was tough to say the least. At the moment, I could not see how any reading will help someone in my situation and I sure did. I wished I had read it sooner.

Peace of Mind spiritual healing is based on the premise that no one can be truly healthy unless their mind, body and psyche are indeed operating in one sympathetic unit. This book promotes that it is not enough to alleviate physical symptoms of illness or injury; to be completely healed one must also address the mental and spiritual symptoms as well. This is great book for depression, mental well being. Even though I do not believe in black magic, spiritual attacks, evil eyes, and curses, this book also touches upon these topics as well.

I have tackled depression and anxiety both and now I know that to live a healthy life, stress free, we need to keep the body and spirit in sync. This book  offers a simple guide to achieving peace and tranquility for the soul in a step by step guide: Signs – Diagnosis, Healing – Treatment, Protection and Purification.

May Peace Be With You!

Also Check out Peace Quotes 

Various Peace Symbols:


White Friday: 10 Things To Do Instead Of Shopping On Black Friday

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Everyone, okay not everyone but many people in North America are busy right now shopping for Black Friday deals. I have done in past, some of my close friends and family do it now and many hard working Americans can afford some niceties during heavy discount during black Friday.  I am not Christmas or gift hater, as I buy them myself but not on Thanksgiving weekend. I am simply too lazy and too broke to do any shopping during Black Friday. If you are like me, you will like this.

White Friday: No shopping day

Gifts from heart during Holidays

Irony of recession is hard on all of us, no matter how much money we make, there is always things getting expensive as I have written about it on Irony of Recession: Expensive and Cheaper things.

You can still avoid crazy rush of shopping and give gifts to your loved by Simplify Gift Giving During Holidays and Meaningful Happy Holidays From Heart, Not Wallet.

Download Free ebook: No Optin or email required:

Meaningful Celebration: Free eBook download
Rush of Black Friday 2010: Target:

I am not an early morning person, broke and not fit enough to run on Black Friday

10 Things to Do Instead of Shopping on Black Friday:

1. Get up Late:

Lure of sleeping in late in cold morning under warm blanket sounds wonderful to many. Sleep in, wake up in bed, do pillow fights with family members and catch up on Zzzes.

See: Laidback Mornings: without an alarm

2. Sip in Hot Tea:

I love my morning tea, specially the way Zenguy makes it. Sip in hot ginger tea in my pajama, not waiting in line sounds good to me.

101 Changes: Change 9 – Drink to your Health: Benefits of Drinking Tea

How to Make Best Ever Chai-Tea at Home

3. Cook something with kids or spouse:

Make some unique recipe (easy ones) with kids or a spouse and share it. If it turned out good, take pictures and share recipes with others. If it turned out bad, laugh together, take a picture and NOT show it anyone.

4. Declutter

Just look in closet, attic or garage for getting rid of stuff. You may find some brand new, unopened possible gifts to give away or donate. Best thing, it did not cost you anything, and your house got bit cleaner.

Read:

10 Ways to declutter your house

7 ways your clutter is costing you

11 reasons we hoard on things

5. Go to Park:

While many people will be busy shopping, many parks will be empty, so go ahead and enjoy in kiddie slides or swings, yes you as an adult can have fun with kids, like kids.

6. Set up Christmas lights:

You can set up Christmas lights on your house or other decoration. Many people take out their Plastic Christmas tree and decorate it and have truly early start on holidays without spending anything.

7. Cook food for Homeless or others:

We actually did this as we wanted at least one more person to have a good thanksgiving. We looked at local shelter and food banks and they happened to be close this holidays. But there are always someone hanging by local stores and you can share you extra hot food and pumpkin pie with them. Always put extra napkins, plastic spoons, fork and water bottle to it is easier for them.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving: Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes

8. Watch a movie or read a book.

I love watching movies, specially mushy romantic ones, either with dashing romantic heroes such as Mr. Darcy or Mr. Thronton, I am up for good drama, sci-fi and action movies. But with two little kids, we are watching “Cauliou” , but we still are having fun.

I am always up for reading new bestseller books or catching up on up on my old favorites novels by my favorite authors.

Great Classic Books that Everyone should Read (At least once)

8 Kids Books That Everyone Should Read

9. Write a blog post:

See, I am practicing what I am preaching. Instead of shopping, I am sitting on my laptop, sipping Chai and writing  here:-) You can write journal as well.

10. Just relax

This is something very hard for many of us do, as we are constantly on the go, doing things and checking off from our “things to do list”. We can simply take little break from everything and DO NOTHING,  on buy nothing day!

Screw productivity : at least for a day

You may also like:

8 items to spend money on;
8 items to save money on
Story of stuff : Must read and Must watch : Free

Your turn: How are you spending you Black Friday? Take a little break and don’t forget to have fun too!

Zengirl

Image Source: Media Exposed

Vegetarian Thanksgiving: Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes

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One of the best thing about having a vegetarian and vegan thanksgiving is healthy and animal and specially turkey may thank you for not eating them. I am vegetarian since birth so it comes easy to me but even if you are occasional vegetarian or vegan, you can have a great, healthy and delicious food fiesta during thanksgiving.

Also check out:

101 Changes: Change 10: Eat Like Vegetarian

Are you a silent Vegetarian?

We are what we eat

I am sure, these recipes will be loved by herbivore, carnivore, and omnivore alike.

Cranberry Chutney:

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. margarine or olive oil
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 lb. (about 4 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup packed light brown sugar,or Maple Syrup
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. finely grated fresh ginger (peel the skin off)
¼ tsp. ground allspice
1 green apple,  finely chopped

Direction:

Heat the sauce pan over medium heat, add margarine or olive oil. When margarine melts or oil gets hot, add celery and onion, and cook, stirring, until soft, about 10-12 minutes. Add cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, apple, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil.

Keep stirring until cranberries gets mushy and release their juices, for 15 minutes or so. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook, stirring often, until berries are tender and chutney is the consistency of thick jam, about 1 hour. You can grind the chutney to fine paste once cool or eat as it is for chunky taste.

Corn Chowder Soup

Ingredients:

1 medium to large butternut squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
One 32-ounce carton vegetable broth or water
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (can use fresh basil leaves0
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (can use fresh thyme)
2 1/2 to 3 cups cooked fresh  corn kernels (about 3) or thawed frozen corn kernels
1 cup soy milk, or as needed
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, or more, to taste

Direction:

Slice the squash  into small dice. You can pre-bake squash to make cutting easier . Heat the oil in a soup pot. Once oil is hot, add onion and celery and sauté over medium heat until the onion is golden brown. Add the diced squash and diced sweet potato to pot. Add enough stock or water to cover all but about an inch of the vegetables. Bring to a simmer, then add the bay leaves and other seasonings. Simmer gently, covered, until the squash and potatoes are tender, about 25 to 30 minutes. Add cooked corn and soy milk to bring our thickness or chunkiness in the soup. Season with salt and pepper and simmer again for 15 minutes and serve hot.

I like to use potato masher to mash the big pieces a little while in pot. You can puree half soup if you like, just make sure you puree soup when it is cold. Hot soup never should be pureed unless you want to redecorate your kitchen later 😉

Stir in the finely chopped cilantro just before serving.This may also be cooked a day ahead and refrigerated, since its flavor develops nicely overnight.

Rice Pilaf with Corn and Walnuts

Image Source: neelscorner.com

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups basmati or any long grain rice
1 vegetable bouillon cube, broth
1/4 cup roasted walnuts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large red onion, quartered and thinly sliced
2 cups cooked fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels
3 scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, or more, to taste
1 teaspoon cumin, or more, to taste
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook basmati rice in large pot of broth or with vegetable Bolivian in water. Put 2 cup water or broth or each cup of long grain rice. Cook until all water is absorbed. You can cook rice in rice cooker for easy cooking as well. Toast walnuts on oven or nonstick pan.  Set it aside. Heat the oil in the same pan. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat until golden. Stir in the corn kernels and continue to sauté until the onion begins to brown lightly. Stir the cooked rice into the corn mixture along with the scallions, chopped cilantro, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the toasted walnuts. Serve hot.

Spinach and Orange Salad:

Image source: Food network

Ingredients

1 pack loose leaves baby spinach
2 cups thinly shredded red cabbage
1 medium red onion sliced thinly
3 small seedless oranges, such as clementine, peeled and sectioned
1/2 medium cucumber thinly sliced
1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, or as desired
1 1/2 tablespoons white balsamic or white wine vinegar, or to taste
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions:

In large salad bowl, combine the spinach, cabbage, red onions, oranges, cucumber, and almonds in a serving bowl and toss together. Dress as desired with oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Mix gently and serve.

Coconut-Pumpkin Soup

Image Source: Cookbook cover

Ingredients

2 medium carrots, chopped
1 medium green sweet pepper, seeded and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 15 ounce can pumpkin
1 14 ounce can unsweetened light coconut milk
1 14 ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 medium fresh jalapeno chile pepper, seeded and finely chopped
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro or parsley

Directions

In a large saucepan, cook carrots, sweet pepper, and onion in hot oil over medium heat about 5 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, coconut milk, and broth. Stir in brown sugar, jalapeno pepper, salt, and ginger. Stir pumpkin mixture into cooked carrot mixture.  Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, about 10 minutes or until heated through, stirring frequently. Before serving, stir in cilantro.

Marbled Chocolate-Pumpkin Brownies

Marbled Chocolate-Pumpkin Brownies

Source: Pumpkin Recipes

Ingredients

3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon margarine, softened
1/2 cup sugar or maple syrup
egg replacer powder for 5 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger1
tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup butter, cut up
2 1/4 cups sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted (optional)
Direction:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking pan with oil. In a medium mixing bowl beat cream cheese and the 1 tablespoon butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the 1/2 cup sugar. Beat until well combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in 1 egg replacer, the pumpkin, 1 teaspoon vanilla, the cinnamon, and ginger until combined. Stir in the 1 tablespoon flour. Set aside.

In a small bowl stir together the 1-1/4 cups flour, the baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a large saucepan combine the chocolate and 3/4 cup butter. Cook and stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat. Gradually add the 2-1/4 cups sugar, beating with an electric mixer on low speed just until combined. Add the additional 4 egg replacer powder, . Beat in milk and the 2 teaspoons vanilla. Gradually beat in flour mixture just until combined.

Spread chocolate mixture evenly in the prepared pan. Spoon cream cheese mixture in several mounds on top of the chocolate batter. Using a narrow metal spatula, gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the chocolate batter. If desired, sprinkle with walnuts. Bake about 60 minutes or until center is just set when pan is gently shaken. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Use foil to lift uncut brownies out of pan. Cut into brownies.

Also check out: How to Make Baba Ganoush: Eggplant Dip Recipe

Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy and Enjoy!

Recipes adopted from Zengirl, Veg Kitchen, Pumpkin Recipes

 

This entry was posted in Cooking.

Kids Say Funniest Things: 4

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had started a Kids Talk series in early days of Happy Heart and Mind blog but did not get much chance to post occasional silly and funny story until now. R likes funny and silly stuff like many young kidsand he actually quite funny on several occasions without trying that cracks us up. Humor is important part of life and much needed in our otherwise stressed life.

If you have your own kids or nieces and nephews you will know what I am talking about that kids can say cutest and funniest things and even if you do not have kids, I hope you can still appreciate kiddish humor in your life. Read on, hopefully it will make you chuckle a little.

Check out my Previous Posts on the subject:

Kids says funniest things :1

Kids says funniest things: 2 .

Kids says Funniest Things: 3

———————————————————————————————————————————————

I have 2 little boys, who keeps me not only very busy to do many things, they are also my source of learning, amazement and smiles when I am least expecting it. I have written my and my kids personal funniest moment, which I am sure many of you have funny as well. Here are a few funny sayings that really happened;

Got Cold?

R got his first cold of the season this year! He was coughing and sneezing and it was hard for me to see him like that. Then he saw his dad and I concerned, so he says I am too young for coffeeing but not too old for coughing!  It took me sometime before I got it 🙂

How old are you?

Little P is now talking many things and learning a lot. So, I decided to wear my teacher hat and started to teach him about his name, his brother name and so on and then I taught him, when someone asks; “How old are you? You say I am two years old”. After practicing it all, I tried to show off his new knowledge to Zenguy when he came from office.

I as a parent should have known not to make a fool of myself, as child have capability to do amazing thing with you, when you are alone, but you try to show or share to others, your child acts like he does not know what are you talking about. Little P did better than that though.

So, when asked “How old are you?”  He said ” I am TOO old” 🙂 (instead of two years old)

Some Funny Pictures of Kids

Looking for decent images of funny kids over the internet is lot tougher compared to what I thought. I found many images, but most of them were crude, and some of them were offensive. I was however able to find a few decent, clean and cute images to share. Hope you enjoy it. Source of images are shown right below the image.

Spider Boy!

http://www.v4venkat.blogspot.com

 

Copy and Paste 

source: funnypix

 

Comfortable, are you?

1000funfacts.com

Too Fast?

skippymaximus.blogspot.com

 

I have been cloned!

partyandbs.de

 

No Chairs, No Problem

http://www.picturesdepot.com/

Kids are funny, even when they are not trying to be one. If you just listen to them and open up a world of constant wonder. Enjoy!

Zengirl

 

Top 10 Saving Money Tips: (How to Save When Buying)

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Great depression happened during our grandparents time. Closet we came to seeing recession is 2001 and later in 2008, with jobs being lost, people losing houses and more economic downturn. In end of 2011, many people still feel the effect of it now, even things might be turning better for some but quite not for all.

I have been living somewhat simplified life since I decided to stay home with a child, years ago. For awhile, Zenguy was with zero to little income, so I learned more about how to save money more efficiently and without feeling deprived. Surviving without money is possible for rare few and is not for most of us.

I often get asked about saving money tips, I do not claim to be money expert but I know thing or two that has worked for us, which I wanted to share here again. It will help those in need and even if you are well off, you can save money for retirement, kid’s college or long waited vacation you may want to take.

See more related articles:

Easy ways to save Money

How to create a life that does not need an escape Part 1,

How to create a life that does not need an escape, Part 2

How to reuse Halloween Candies

Top Money Saving Tips For Everyone

Buying Tips:

1. Do not buy things that you can get for Free.

Use Local Library to  get Books (Including classic, new bestsellers, fiction, non fiction), DVDs (Kids, old, new), Music CDs, and sometimes even art pieces can be borrowed from it. Technically it is not free, if you are house owner, you are paying taxes for it anyways. Why not use it and buy it only books, movies that you really love to watch again and again.

2. Buy used when possible, new is not necessary.

Most things can be bought used with exception of a few items such as medicine, underclothes, food (dented can and boxes can be bought at reduced price), brush, diaper, tissue paper and so on.

Buying used is not only cheaper, and if you buy it from garage sale, or moving sale, you may not pay for the taxes on it. Many items such as car, house, furniture, laptop, computer, printer, textbooks, most clothes for kids and adult, shoes, art pieces, some kitchen appliances, washer and dryer can be and should be bought used. If you buy it used, make sure it is decent condition and pay fair price for it.

3. Buy things out of season.

Buying things right after Halloween, Christmas can save you tons of money, sometimes as much as 50% to 75% off, when you buy it right after the holidays. One of my friends always buy wrapping paper and Christmas decoration on Dec 27th for the next season. Same can be done for Valentine day, Buying Roses one day after Mother’s day or Father’s day can be lot cheaper.

4. Buy things locally.

Buy local produce, fruits and vegetable from local farmers. Buy and support local artist and designer, it will not only help the local community but also will help you pocket. One of my friend loves One specific designer shoes and she pays great money for it, because she has money and she loves the product. If you are not in debt, then go ahead, but if you are trying to save money and pay off bill like most of us, it is best to buy local products.

5. Buy Christmas items through out the year.

My brother always buy things on Black Friday and Cyber Monday and it seems to work well for him. But it is hectic, and crazy few days. If you are laid back like me, you may want to buy Christmas or even birthday gifts throughout the year.

If you are frugal, and creative, you can give an experience gifts to friends and family instead of buying little gadgets. You can also make some food, jams and cookie mix as gift, it will be more meaningful.

You can check out my post on how to have great Stress free thanksgiving and holiday and you can download my free ebook in pdf version meaningful celebrations for ideas.

5. Don’t buy groceries when you are famished.

This is universal truth for many of us, when we are hungry and doing grocery or any type of shopping, many of us will buy junk food, unhealthy snacks. Eat some fruit or snacks before going any type of shopping, specially buying groceries related trip.

6. Almost never lease or use “Rent to Own” product.

Leasing a car sound attractive on the surface, you pay some money, presumably reasonable monthly payment for 2 years and you get to return the car and get new lease. They may tell you that you may never have to pay for repairing a car, as you will be always driving a new car, but amount of money you end up spending is outrageous and in 99% cases not worth it.

Same things goes for “rent to own” products, you can buy used items much cheaper price or you might be better off saving money for it compared to amount you have to pay to get “rent to own” an any type of product, be it house, piano, laptop or computer. Buy used instead.

7. Buy Generic brand

Zenguy once checked the ingredient in generic headache medicine versus brand name headache medicine, he found 100% same ingredients on both medicine list. Only thing different was, generic brand did not have advertising budget like brand name. In many cases, we might be paying the extra cost of advertising and top model they use to sell the product.

Even when you have prescription to fill up, one can ask for generic brand of medicine from doctor which might be much cheaper. In most cases buying generic brand makes lot of sense over top and popular brand. If you are getting same thing, why spend extra?

8. Do Comparison Shopping

When you can not get the item for free (i.e. borrowing etc.) or buy used and you have to buy an item, you can save lot of money by comparing prices at different stores, online places before making a decision to buy it. You can get some best price or amazon or ebay, but watch out for shipping cost, as they can add up. Compare and know your option before buying anything new, specially if it over $100 priced product, you will save more money this way!

9. Before buying, sell or donate old item

I have made this rule which I try to follow. When I have to replace an item: for example a skirt, I sell or donate old skirt. This step has two benefits, first I make money if I sell it, even little bit counts, if I donate it I can use in tax break later at the tax time, again how little it may be, it helps. However I like the second benefit the most, which is that my closet won’t get cluttered. And living in clean, decluttered place is a mental bliss for me.

This tip works for almost any item, it could be old Television set, replacing bed, or furniture or car. It keeps your place clean and save you money, what is not to love?

10. No shame in haggling for price.

Many of us think that in US, we can not haggle for price, everything is fixed price and must be paid in full. While it is generally true but not complete truth. Still we  in US we can still haggle for best deal and best price. If you do not ask, you will certainly not get discounted price. Worst case people may say no, in best case, you will save some money so why not ask. Now, haggling does not mean to be so el-cheapo and be annoying, it simply means to ask politely and with respect for best price.

Some of the places in US you can negotiate the price or deal are

  • car buying (new and used),
  •  loan (lower rate),
  • credit card rates (lowering),
  • waving some bank fees,
  • cell phone contracts,
  • phone and internet contract,
  • cable contract, and so on.
  •  Lawn service,
  • kitchen, bathroom remodel,
  • a few car repairs,
  • buying a big furniture set,
  • buying big piece of art,
  • at flea market,
  •  garage sale and so on.

Always pay fair price and be respectable to seller when haggling the price to be fair.

Conclusion:

I am sure I can add many more ways to save money when we buy, but these are top 10 that are most important ones. One can keep his or his respect, save money and not feel deprived, yes all in one sentence. It can be true.

Your turn: How do you save money when you buy?

Zengirl