We ~ l o v e ~ the zoo!

Dear Ella, 

We went to the zoo again today. Yep, the same ole zoo. You never get sick of it; and, the best part is, neither do we! Here are our highlights...

Giraffes

Tiger

Mommy, Ella, and Tiger

The train...you lasted one lap today. 

Walabys

Ella and Daddy on the Mt. Lion.

Daddy getting giggles

Walking everywhere like a boss

raisins




Love you baby,
Mom

Oatmeal, Almond, Flax, Raisin Cookies (Vegan)

I absolutely ADORE Kashi's Oatmeal-Raisin cookies. You know the big soft ones that taste like the best health food you've ever eaten? The problem is, in our home, the $3.50 box of 8 cookies lasts less than 24 hours. Therefore, I've gallantly 'morphed' other oatmeal-raisin cookie recipes into one that I think is a pretty darn good imitation! Enjoy!

13 cup soy/almond/dairy milk  2 tbsps flax seeds (ground or milled) 1/2 cup brown sugar (more if you'd like) 13 cup oil 1 tsp vanilla extract 34 cup whole wheat flour (or all purpose) 12 tsp cinnamon

18 tsp ground nutmeg 14 tsp baking soda 14 tsp salt 1 12 cups quick-cooking oats 12 cup raisins/dried cranberries (mix of any dried fruit),  chopped 1/4 cup almonds, chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)

1	In a large bowl use a fork or wisk to vigorously mix together the  milk and flax seeds. Add in the sugar and oil and mix for about 2 minutes until it reaches a caramel colour. Mix in vanilla extract.
2	Sift in flour, spices, baking soda and salt. Fold in oatmeal, chopped dried fruit, and chopped almonds.
3	Drop dough in generous tbs onto a paper-lined (or greased) baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Flatten the tops a bit.
4	Bake for 9-11 minutes in the preheated oven at 350°F/180°C.
5	Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.