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December 2012

My Year in Review

December 31, 2012
twenty-five

2012 was a big year. With only one day left of December and 2012, I wanted to share with you this landmark year. For me, 2012 has been a year of major life changes, travel, thrilling excitement and powerful personal transformation.

Throughout the year I got the chance to travel to Amsterdam, Rome, Dublin, New York City and Des Moines.

new-york

I attended my first Irish horse race.

horse-racing-lismore

I launched this blog.

three-day-juice-cleanse

I sold my vegan baked goods to a local cafe in Cork.

figgyandsprout-baking

I spent weekends in the countryside relaxing, hiking and taking things slowly.

glenshelane-waterford

I celebrated my 25th birthday with my beloved in Italy.

katie-norris-rome

I spent some time at the beach with my sister and her partner. I smiled and laughed until my cheeks hurt and my belly ached.

rockaway-beach-new-york

I celebrated one year living in the green hills of Ireland.

the-vee-waterford-knockmealdown-mountains

(My partner Gavin and I. This was taken a year and a half ago after moving to Ireland.)

I discovered my passion for raw food and began working as a raw food chef.

orange-pomegranate-salad

I joined a beginners ballet course and fell in love with the art of movement. I also met some wonderful people along the way.

ballet-shoes

I completed my first international marathon and third full marathon.

katie-norris-dublin-marathon

I spent my first Christmas away from home at my new home in Ireland. I learned the importance of love and family.

katie-christmas-in-ireland

2012 has been a fabulous year. Sharing recipes, photos and words makes me happier than I can say. I’m infinitely grateful for the many wonderful people I’ve met through this little page on the internet. Starting this blog is one of the best things I’ve ever done thanks to you, dear readers. Thank you for your constant love and support – it means the world to me. Happy New Year! xo

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Apple Spice Latte

December 28, 2012
apple-spiced-latte

A bowl of popcorn, a mug of apple spice latte, a cozy blanket, one or two favorite holiday movies and someone to snuggle with – these are my ingredients for a wonderful holiday season afternoon or evening! Sit by a lit fireplace, a glowing candle or maybe a sparkly Christmas tree.

Apples have surprising nutritional benefits that justify the “apple a day” adage. Red apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin which helps to boost and fortify your immune system. They also help to lower cholesterol, decrease risk of diabetes and aid in weight loss.

This warm drink also contains cinnamon, which has been shown to help regulate our blood sugar levels, and has an anti-clotting effect on the blood. It is even recommended for people with Type 2 diabetes to consume. Cinnamon is also believed to boost cognitive function and memory.

Nothing beats a warm mug of apple spice latte to warm the heart. You’ll know just what to serve guests (or yourself) when the cold weather hits. Enjoy the season and celebrate. Cheers!

Apple Spice Latte

Vegan, Raw & Gluten-free

Serves 1

Ingredients:

  • 3 apples, juiced (yields about 1/2 a cup)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk ( I used homemade almond milk)
  • dash of cinnamon and nutmeg

Directions:

  1. Place apples through a juicer.
  2. Heat the apple juice and almond milk on the stove top on medium heat until warm (don’t boil.)
  3. Sprinkle a few dashes of nutmeg and cinnamon over the top. Enjoy immediately.

I hope you love and enjoy this drink as much as I do!

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Vegan Eggnog

December 20, 2012
vegan-eggnog

The holidays are upon us and I felt it fitting to recreate a traditional beverage that can be enjoyed by the entire family. I’ve spent the last few days perfecting a recipe for vegan eggnog that is quick, easy to make, delicious and authentic. I think I got it. I even got the seal of approval from the resident recipe tester (my boyfriend).

It’s incredibly rich, decadent, and will be sure to impress at any holiday parties. Unlike other eggnogs, it’s not too sweet and has a nice delicate nutmeg flavor. It’s up to you whether you “spike” it or not.

christmas-vegan-eggnog

Vegan Eggnog

Raw, Gluten-free & Vegan

Serves 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups almonds, soaked in water for 8 hours then drained
  • 3 cups pure water
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or 4 – 6 Medjool dates, pitted)
  • 1 Tbsp. coconut butter or oil, melted
  • 1 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • pinch ground cloves
  • dash of sea salt

Directions:

  1. Add almonds and water in to a blender for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Strain mixture using a nut milk bag or fine mesh strainer to make an almond milk base for the eggnog. Discard almond pulp (or save for almond pulp crackers.)
  3. Rinse out blender and pour almond milk back in. Blend the rest of the ingredients with the milk until smooth and delicious. Place in the fridge until cold and serve.

 

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Healthy Edible Holiday Gifts

December 17, 2012
healthy-edible-holiday-gifts

With the holidays quickly approaching, I thought I would share some ideas for edible gifts! My true pleasure is giving incredible gifts and more often than not, these presents are made in my kitchen. I love hearing loved ones squeal with delight when they are handed a small package wrapped in parchment paper, anticipating the unimaginable deliciousness inside.

Inspire someone you love and give the gift of healthy inspiration. I rounded up the best edible presents from figgy & sprout, perfect to prepare ahead of time and grab last minute. These will make special gifts, and they’re easy to dress up in homemade boxes and packages for an extra bit of personal flair.

Happy holidays everyone! I hope that all of you are well and enjoying the gifts of the season. What are some of your favorite things to give during the holidays?

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