Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com Living Vegan in Los Angeles Sun, 05 Feb 2012 06:52:31 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Another Day, Another Wedge http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-another-day-another-wedge/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-another-day-another-wedge/#comments Sun, 05 Feb 2012 06:48:10 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6144

 

How hot are these??

Boutique 9 Women’s Linya Wedge, $140 at Endless HERE

  • Synthetic upper
  • Synthetic lining
  • Manmade sole
  • Also in black, nude, and brown
]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-another-day-another-wedge/feed/ 0 Win Chocolate from Go Max Go Foods! http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/win-chocolate-from-go-max-go-foods/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/win-chocolate-from-go-max-go-foods/#comments Sun, 05 Feb 2012 06:14:43 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6128

Clearly I have chocolate on the brain this month!  If you’ve checked out my post on vegan Valentine’s Day sweets, you know that I’m a big fan of the candy bars from Go Max Go Foods.  GMF is a vegan-owned company operating out of Texas that uses ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients (the name is in memory of beloved German Shepherd-mix Max).  Their line of amazingly yummy chocolate bars are inspired by childhood favorites:

  • Cleo’s – dreamy peanut butter and rice-milk chocolate cups.
  • SNAP! – crunchy, crisped rice mixed with rice-milk chocolate.
  • Jokerz – layer of dry roasted peanuts, buttery caramel, rich nougat and chocolate.
  • Buccaneer – fluffy chocolatey nougat covered in creamy chocolate.
  • Twilight – chocolate nougat topped with buttery caramel and a rice-milk chocolate coating.
  • Mahalo – sweet coconut topped with dry roasted almonds and covered in chocolate (my personal fav!)

    

    

So… DO YOU WANT TO WIN A 6-PACK OF GO MAX GO CHOCOLATE BARS (1 OF EACH PICTURED ABOVE)????

Here’s how to score a sweet package of chocolate just in time for Valentine’s Day!

To Enter to Win:
Leave a COMMENT BELOW with the name of your FAVORITE CANDY BAR (vegan or non-vegan).

That’s it!

Note:  When you leave a comment your email is not made public, but it is visible to me on your profile and that’s how I will notify you. Make sure and check your email on Friday!  The winner gets 24 hours to respond, if not I will pick another winner.

The give-away ends this Friday, February 10th at 10am PST so get your entry in now!  A winner will be chosen at random (see fine print below).

Visit the Go Max Go Foods Website HERE
Like Go Max Go Foods on Facebook HERE
Follow Go Max Go Foods on Twitter HERE

Go Max bars are usually in stock at Locali in Los Angeles or check out where to buy HERE.

Giveaway ends on Friday, February 10th at 10am PST.  Giveaway open to U.S. residents. All entries must have a valid email in blog profile or leave email address in comments. One entry per person. Multiple entries may result in disqualification. Random winner will be chosen by the And the Winner Is… Worldpress plugin.  Winner has 24 hours to claim prize or it will be forfeited to another winner. Winner will receive their prize directly from Go Max Go Foods. 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/04/win-chocolate-from-go-max-go-foods/feed/ 17 xo Vegan Chocolate http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/01/xo-vegan-chocolate/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/01/xo-vegan-chocolate/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:57:23 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6116 Just in time for Valentine’s Day, here are a few vegan chocolates that will satisfy your sweet tooth and those of your sweetie, if you dare to share!

Go Max Go Foods has a whole line of AMAZING vegan chocolate bar modeled after childhood favs (I could eat one of their “Almond Joy”-esc Mahalo bars every day).  They recently added two more chocolates to their food family — Cleo’s (decadent peanut butter cups) and Snap! (crisped rice covered in rice-milk chocolate).  Go Max bars are usually in stock at Locali in Los Angeles or check out where to buy HERE.

Can you see a pattern?  Yes, if you want to make me happy, peanut butter and chocolate pretty much will do it every time.  I recently picked up a package of Justin’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups at Whole Foods.  So delicious and not overly sweet.  Can also be purchased at Food Fight! Vegan Grocery.

Endangered Species Chocolate makes a large selection of vegan chocolate bars (although not all their products are vegan they are all clearly labeled).  Each year the company donates 10% of their net profits to organizations that benefit animals and the earth.  You can find a selection of their chocolates at Whole Foods or online at the company website (currently also offering a selection of Valentines Day Gift Sets!).

Allison’s Gourmet, your vegan gift basket headquarters, has a full line of dairy-free confections including gourmet chocolates (truffles, caramels & more) and fudge.  If you are looking for the perfect box of chocolates to present on Valentine’s Day, look no further than Allison’s.

Theo chocolate has teamed up with Registered Dietitian Nichole Dandrea to produce a line of organic, fair trade and 100% vegan dark chocolate confections.  You can purchase Nicobella Organic Dark Chocolates HERE.  Offerings include truffles and peanut butter squares.  The chocolates are infused with super rich antioxidant foods, such as blueberries, green tea, sunflower seed butter, and pumpkin. 5% of annual sales are donated to The Humane Society of the United States and Noah’s Ark.

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/02/01/xo-vegan-chocolate/feed/ 1 Adoptable Pet of the Day: Meet Picasso and Domino http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-picasso-and-domino/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-picasso-and-domino/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:42:14 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6111

Picasso (#12-01893 ) is a 2 year old Miniature Pinscher Mix.
In his own words:  Won’t you take me home?  I am a fun-loving little guy who gets along great with other dogs.  Although I can be playful and active, I also enjoy long naps and cuddle time.  Make me yours today!

South Bay Pet Adoption Center
12910 Yukon Avenue
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 676-1149

Domino (#11-03151) is a 9 month old Domestic Short Hair.
In his own words:  I am a shy, but sweet boy who has been at the shelter my whole life.  I am playful, energetic, and affectionate once I get to know you.  I would love to be a part of your family, so please come by and see me!

P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center
7700 East Spring Street
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 570-7722

 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-picasso-and-domino/feed/ 0 I *Heart* Chard http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/i-heart-chard/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/i-heart-chard/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:37:32 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6106

While Kale will always be my favorite green, Chard is a close 2nd.  Especially Rainbow Chard, which just sounds nice to say.  Like other greens, chard is a nutritional powerhouse, especially for bone support.  Check out this chart from World’s Healthiest Foods:

I also like chard because it’s also one of my go-to “fast foods.”  Throw some washed leaves in a pan with olive oil, garlic and lemon while you cook some quick cous cous or quinoa, with tempeh or tofu — and you have a meal in 15/20 minutes.  I also keep the stalks to use in my juicer.   Some people are afraid of greens, but don’t be — they can be really tasty if cooked right.  They’re such an easy side dish and the nutritional pay off is worth whatever cooking trials you have to do to find your favorite cooking method.  Go Green!

Here’s a simple recipe from Whole Foods for Creamy Sesame Greens:

Ingredients

4 tablespoons water, divided
6 cups chopped kale, Swiss chard or collard greens, tough stems removed
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons orange or lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Method

Heat 2 tablespoons water in a large skillet over medium heat. Add greens and cook, tossing occasionally, until wilted, about 5 minutes. Drain well.

In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, orange juice, remaining 2 tablespoons water and garlic. Add hot greens, toss to combine and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Per serving: 200 calories (80 from fat), 9g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 95mg sodium, 25g total carbohydrate (5g dietary fiber, 0g sugar), 9g protein

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/31/i-heart-chard/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Lace It Up http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/21/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-lace-it-up/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/21/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-lace-it-up/#comments Sun, 22 Jan 2012 03:34:46 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6100

Mellony Black Lace by Madden Girl, $59.95 at Steve Madden HERE

  • 5 inch heel
  • 1 inch platform
  • Man-made upper
  • Man-made sole
]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/21/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-lace-it-up/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Justice Boots by OlsenHaus http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/08/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-justice-boots-by-olsenhaus/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/08/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-justice-boots-by-olsenhaus/#comments Sun, 08 Jan 2012 23:55:26 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6095
olsenHaus Women’s Justice Platform Boot, $187 at Endless HERE

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/08/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-justice-boots-by-olsenhaus/feed/ 0 Peekaboo Platforms http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/02/peekaboo-platforms/ http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/02/peekaboo-platforms/#comments Tue, 03 Jan 2012 01:00:49 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6091

Shoe Republic LA Carolyn Mustard Peekaboo Platform Ankle Boots
$49 at Lulu’s HERE

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2012/01/02/peekaboo-platforms/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Irish Blood, English Boot http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-irish-blood-english-boot/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-irish-blood-english-boot/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2011 07:53:22 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6082

English Mid Boot by DAV, £60.00 at Bourgeois Boheme HERE

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-irish-blood-english-boot/feed/ 0 Adoptable Pet of the Day: Meet Parker, Mochi & Sydney http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-parker-mochi-sydney/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-parker-mochi-sydney/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2011 07:32:13 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6077
Parker (#12-01400) is a one year old Chihuahua mix. How adorable is this little guy??
In his own words:  Look at me!  I am an energetic little fellow who would love a home to call my own.  My doggie manners are excellent and I walk very nicely on a leash.  Since I enjoy being active, a basic obedience or agility class would be great fun for me.  Check me out and see what a fun little guy I am!

South Bay Pet Adoption Center
12910 Yukon Avenue
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 676-1149

Mochi (#12-01228) is a 5 year old Domestic Long Hair kitty.
In his own words:  I’m what they call the “Total Package”!  I am a sweet little guy who would be good for a family with kids.  Come by and meet me and see how special I am!

P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center
7700 East Spring Street
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 570-7722


Sydney (#12-01470) is a 1 year old Rabbit (yes, shelters have rabbits too!).
In his own words:  I want to go home with you!  I am a super friendly bunny looking for my forever home.  I would make a great beginner bunny as I am already litter box trained and enjoy being around people of all ages.  I even like cats!  Since rabbits are pets that have special needs, please do a bit of research before taking me home with you.

South Bay Pet Adoption Center
12910 Yukon Avenue
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 676-1149

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-parker-mochi-sydney/feed/ 0 Get Spork-Fed! http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/get-spork-fed/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/get-spork-fed/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2011 07:15:03 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6007

I recently caught up with the sisters of Spork Foods, Jenny Engel and Heather Goldberg, to discuss their first cookbook, Spork-Fed (out now!).  I’ve known Jenny and Heather for years and have always been a fan of their super fun cooking classes (now available online too).  I could not have been more excited to receive my copy in the mail a few weeks ago.  The forward is by the 2nd most adorable sister team out there, Emily and Zooey Deschanel, and if you check out the acknowledgements in the back you might just see another familiar name, heehee.  I love the clear, easy-to-follow directions in the book, and the pictures will seriously make you drool.  The brunch section is probably my favorite.  Strawberry Cream Cheese-Stuffed French Toast?  Um… yes please!

Spork-Fed is a great holiday gift for someone you love (or just a treat for yourself!).  You can pick up a copy at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  Follow the ladies on Twitter @SporkFoods

 

Veggywood: What was it like writing a book together?
Jenny:  Well, we do pretty much everything together, so it seemed very natural to write a book together!  We also have a similar sense of humor, so it was fun to collaborate on such a fun project! 

V:  Is this a good cook book for beginners?
Heather:  Of course!  Many of our cooking students don’t have a lot of experience in the kitchen, but enjoy our recipes. We always advise beginners to take things one step at a time and try the recipes one by one.  We do have a suggested menu section in the front of the book, if people want to make different themed meals, but this is a bit more complex – so beginners – maybe try one recipe at a time to start and work your way to the themed meals.

V:   Who is your  favorite vegan culinary inspiration?
Heather and Jenny:  We are constantly SO inspired by our cooking students.  They share stories of cooking for friends or family who aren’t familiar with vegan food and how the meal was a success, or tell us stories about how being vegan is making them healthier -  or just how experimenting with new ingredients is going for them and changing the way they look at food and cooking.  It is awesome to hear about all of their culinary endeavors and we’re still amazed at how powerful food and cooking can be.

V:  Are you doing a book tour?  Where can we find more info?
Heather and Jenny:  We have been fortunate to travel to a bunch of cities with our book and appear on FOX News, ABC and more (clips are on our Press page at sporkfoods.com.  AND – This Sunday, December 4th, we’re signing cookbooks at our Holiday Bazaar!  Everyone is invited to come by and purchase locally made vegan holiday gifts – including candles, scarves, jewelry, marmalade and of course -  copies of Spork-Fed.  There will be snackies!

V:  If you were stranded on a desert island with the ingredients for only one recipe in this book, what would it be?
Jenny:  Well we hope it’s an island with a kitchenette, so that we can cook up our goodies, but if we were forced to decide -  would have to say – the Creamy Pistachio Pesto over Brown Rice!  It’s a balanced dish that would keep us going – and we never get sick of eating it!

 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/get-spork-fed/feed/ 2 Prem Soaps: With Love from Brooklyn http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/prem-soaps-with-love-from-brooklyn/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/prem-soaps-with-love-from-brooklyn/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2011 07:14:48 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6058

I got a great box of soaps and candles last week from Prem Soaps, a new Brooklyn-based company started by a vegetarian and two vegans.  They make all the products in their kitchen using only raw, organic, and 100% vegan, cruelty-free ingredients.  First of all, let me just say, wow did that box smell amazing when I opened it!  Their list of ingredients are good enough to eat:  vanilla, cardamon, cinnamon, juniper berries, cilantro, coffee, oatmeal, pine, chai…  Nothing like feeling like you are eating breakfast in the middle of your shower!  And everything comes in cute little containers with handwritten tags (almost all of the packaging is either reused or reusable, or recycled and recycleable).  You can also return the mason jars that the candles and bath salts come in for $1 off your next purchase.  Prices are more than reasonable: $8 for soap, $9/$14 for bath salts, $15 for salt scrubs, $5 for lip balm, $7-$21 for candles.  Plus, they offer a variety of gift sets and samplers that would make great, unique gifts.

  

Also, you know how much I love shipping deals, and Prem has a great one: $5 shipping for one or two items, and free shipping for 3 or more items!

“Like” Prem on Facebook
Follow Prem on TwitterRead their blog

 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/24/prem-soaps-with-love-from-brooklyn/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Studly Novacas Heels http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/11/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-studly-novacas-heels/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/11/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-studly-novacas-heels/#comments Sun, 11 Dec 2011 19:12:08 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6055

 

Jordan Pump from Novacas, $129.95 at MooShoes HERE

 

  • Heel measures approximately 3.25″
  • Platform measures approximately 0.5″


 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/11/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-studly-novacas-heels/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Jeffrey Campbell Vitas Return, Pre-order NOW! http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/03/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-jeffrey-campbell-vitas-return-pre-order-now/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/03/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-jeffrey-campbell-vitas-return-pre-order-now/#comments Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:18:02 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6025

 

THEY’RE BACK!!  For those of you, like me, who lagged on ordering Jeffrey Cambell’s Limited Vegan Edition of his popular Litas (called the Vita), we’ve been given a second chance!  Berkeley store Convert has secured one more production run, with the boots being available via pre-order ONLY.

The collaboration with Campbell came about because of the friendship between him and the co-owner of Convert, Randy Brewer.  The two first worked together when Randy was a buyer at another San Francisco boutique.  This is their 3rd collaboration, and you can expect more vegan styles from them in 2012!

Vita by Jeffrey Campbell Details:

  • Price:  $149 with a 50% deposit + $10 for shipping
  • Heel Height:  approx 4.5″ with a 1.5″ platform
  • Boot Shaft Height:  approx 4″
  • Polyurethane upper/canvas lining/rubber sole

This is the LAST WEEK to get your order for a pair of Vitas in!  The deadline for all orders is December 12th  Thursday December 8th 5pm PST.

To pre-order, send an email to convertstyle@gmail.com
The shoes are $149 with approximately $10 for shipping.  A 50% deposit is required at the time of pre-order ($74.50) and you will be invoiced via Paypal.  The boots will ship in March of 2012.

Check out Covert’s other sustainable and vegan apparel and accessories HERE & like them on Facebook !

Hurry!  Reserve your Vitas today!

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/12/03/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-jeffrey-campbell-vitas-return-pre-order-now/feed/ 0 I Know It’s Over: RIP QuarryGirl.com http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/28/i-know-its-over-rip-quarrygirl-com/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/28/i-know-its-over-rip-quarrygirl-com/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:19:16 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6020

Is it really so strange that last week my friend and fellow vegan blogger Quarry Girl decided it was time to stop updating the wildly popular QuarryGirl.com – and announced it with little fanfare or self-congratulations?  To some the site may have appeared inflammatory, even arrogant, in its defense of veganism… perhaps, sometimes, seeming louder than bombs.  Always brutally honest and never afraid to stretch out and wait for others jump in with furious (and often ridiculous) arguments in the forums, QuarryGirl was willing to taken on anyone, whether it was the “vegan” Thai restaurant on the corner to Veg News itself.  But despite writing about reuben sandwiches and beer with a passion most of us reserve for certain people I know, I was always most impressed with the quiet determination of how Quarry Girl did it.  The site isn’t flashy or trendy (the masthead reading meat is murder with a picture of Paul McCartney never changed), there are no obnoxious banner ads (I believe the reasoning was along the lines of because “they’re ugly”), no dial-a-cliche,  and above all, it still looks like a blog.  It seemed to say, I don’t mind if you forget me, but don’t forget the message.  You want to know why vegans are ALWAYS talking about food?  Why don’t you find out for yourself?

As anyone who tries to keep a blog up, work is a four-letter word:  it’s time consuming and, let’s be frank, nobody loves us.  Plus, more often than not,  the world won’t listen.  We are ambitious outsiders.  Still, everyone knows Quarry Girl.  And while I am disappointed the site won’t be updated anymore, I understand, and I just want to say thanks.  Thanks for helping me find restaurants that even my non-vegan friends/boyfriends/parents/co-workers would like.  Thanks for telling me about Cruzer’s Pizza, teese, the chicken and waffles at Madeleine’s, the mecca that is Ronald’s Donuts, and that Green Leaves sucks.  Thanks for letting me steal your photos for my blog. Thanks for inspiring me to write a blog in the first place.  And to all the other wanna-be vegan bloggers out there hoping to jump into the void left by Quarry Girl and be heir apparent, I have this to say:  “You just haven’t earned it yet, baby.”

So, RIP QuarryGirl.com…. heaven knows I’m miserable now.

xo Polly

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/28/i-know-its-over-rip-quarrygirl-com/feed/ 12 Donate to Help Animals This Holiday Season! http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/27/donate-to-help-animals-this-holiday-season/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/27/donate-to-help-animals-this-holiday-season/#comments Mon, 28 Nov 2011 04:13:44 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=6036

Hello Readers,

I’m continuing my tradition of posting a guide to animal welfare organizations that can use your year end donation if you can give. This is my sixth year posting this and it always gets a good response. Charities and relief organizations have been hit especially hard these past few years so please give what you can.  If you can afford to do some Black Friday shopping, you can afford to give some money to help animals.

As a kid I used to send off pennies in an envelope to the Los Angeles SPCA… every cent counts. All of these groups take donations online and it takes like 2 seconds. I have supported the majority of these organizations for most of my life so I can vouch for the work they do.

REALLY EVEN $5 MAKES A DIFFERENCE!! And you will be surprised by how good it makes YOU feel to know you are helping. So skip Starbucks a few days next week– this is better than a caffeine rush.

Please repost!

Thank you for caring and Happy Holidays!

xo Polly

P.S. To give EVERYDAY for FREE don’t forget to Good Search and visit The Animal Rescue Site.

BEST FRIENDS SOCIETY
Located in Utah, Best Friends runs one of the largest “no kill” animal sanctuaries in the country with THOUSANDS of abused, neglected and abandoned animals from all over the world. They are the ones that took in the Michael Vick dogs.  And for a limited time, your gift to the animals at Best Friends will be doubled! That’s right, every gift made – up to $2 million – will be matched! 

THE GENTLE BARN FOUNDATION
The Gentle Barn is a farm sanctuary based in Southern California that invites groups of at-risk, abused and mentally disabled children and young adults to come and meet farm animals maybe for the first time. All 60 of their animals have be rescued from severe abuse, and by hearing the animals stories and seeing their progress, the children gain courage to overcome their own traumas.

MUTT MATCH LA
Mutt Match is run by a dear friend of mine, Sheilah Aragon, so I can attest that all her funds go to help the dogs of all breeds that she rescues when they are about to be put down at shelters across LA county. Her website is great, especially her story on how she because an animal rescuer. Sheilah is an example of how one person can really make a difference.

HOOVED ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY
I love horses and I love this organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of hooved animals, horses in particular. I have been sending them contributions since I was a little girl.

FARM SANCTUARY
I have been supporting this organization since it was founded in 1986. It is dedicated to the rescue of abused farm animals caught in the horrific web of factory farming, including “downed” animals dumped and left to die literally in the trash behind stockyards.

DELTA RESCUE
Located on 94 acres, DELTA has been around for over 20 years and houses thousands of abandoned animals in its California mountaintop sanctuary that I visited and toured as a teenager. The number of animals they help per year is astounding.

WORLD WILDLIFE PROTECTION IN AFRICA
What an amazing site. It hosts blogs for the hundreds of activists risking their lives EVERY DAY to protect endangered animals in Africa from dangerous militias, rebels and poachers who kill everything from hippos to gorillas in cold blood. You can read daily blogs from rangers in the Congo and sponsor such things as uniforms, food and medical supplies. The rangers themselves write these blogs and post photos, even thank you’s for tiny $20 donations. The stories are just heart wrenching. These rangers are out there with little to no military support and only basic weapons and supplies. Many are killed, but the bravery that jumps off the pages of these blogs is just awe inspiring. I have cried many times reading them. Definitely check out their stories even if you can’t donate right now…

FRIENDS OF ANIMALS FOUNDATION
Located in Los Angeles, this is where I got my amazing Lucia and James who are the loves of my life. I have been a volunteer here for 15+ years. Donate securely via Paypal HERE.

ANIMAL ACRES
Lovely little farm sanctuary in Acton, California that not only is constantly taking in rescued and abused farm animals, but has done an excellent job of balancing celebrity support with a grassroots approach without being obnoxious.  If you live in the LA area and haven’t made it out to Animal Acres, check out their website for info on farm tours and volunteer days.  It really is a great place to visit and bring city kids of all ages to get acquainted with the animals they don’t see in daily life.

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/27/donate-to-help-animals-this-holiday-season/feed/ 0 Vegan Shoe of the Day: Hunters (Yeah, Really) http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-hunters-yeah-really/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-hunters-yeah-really/#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 03:17:23 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=5991

 

Who doesn’t love rain boots?  Even if they are called HUNTERS….

Various colors, $125 @ Zappos

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-shoe-of-the-day-hunters-yeah-really/feed/ 0 Adoptable Pet of the Day: Meet Huckleberry & Shelby http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-huckleberry-shelby/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-huckleberry-shelby/#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 02:18:03 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=5985

Huckleberry (#12-00833) is a 2 month old (baby!) Pit Bull Mix.
In his own words:  Wanna play?  I’m an active boy who would love a home to call my own.  Although I’m just a little guy right now, I will be a large dog when I grow up.  I am very smart and would benefit from Puppy 101, basic obedience and maybe even an agility class!  Visit me & see just how much of a snuggle-bug I really am.

 

South Bay Pet Adoption Center
12910 Yukon Avenue
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 676-1149

 

Shelby (#11-04014) is a 6 year old Domestic Short Hair.
In her own words:  I am an inquisitive boy who is very social and sweet.  I love to hang out with just about anyone and I do well with other pets.  Come visit me – I’m a love-bug!  PLUS, I am part of the Underdog (&Cat) program – I have a special adoption fee.

P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village & Education Center
7700 East Spring Street
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 570-7722

 

 

 


 

 

 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/adoptable-pet-of-the-day-meet-huckleberry-shelby/feed/ 0 Vegan StrEAT Menu at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-streat-menu-at-the-four-seasons-beverly-hills/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-streat-menu-at-the-four-seasons-beverly-hills/#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 02:00:40 +0000 Veggywood http://www.veggywood.com/?p=5968  

I was quite surprised a few weeks ago to get an invite to a private tasting at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills for their new vegan menu.  Created by Executive Chef Ashley James (who is not vegan himself), the “street-inspired” vegan dishes are available starting at 4:00 pm in the hotel’s Windows Lounge.  It’s a small menu consisting of  six “small plates” (which seems to be a food trend right now), so more for a quick bite with your cocktail than a full dinner.  That’s not to say the choices aren’t satisfying on their own, plus a few of them combined would equal a pretty substancial, if pricy, meal.  What I most love about this menu though is the fact that it exists — it’s exciting to have a “fancy” place with vegan options that you can meet someone for drinks after work, suggest for a date, or just have as a choice for a nice night out.

The menu doesn’t scream vegan, which I also like.  There’s no fake meat to scare off non-vegans, and it’s fresh and tasty enough to appeal to meat eaters and vegetarians alike.  My favorites have to be the Real Fries with house made ketchup, and the Hand Made Quesadilla with corn and mushrooms (I would go back just for the quesadillas).

If you get a chance, please make an effort to get out and support the new menu.  Hopefully if gets a good response they will add more dishes or expand it to the regular restaurant!

Morelian Gazpacho salad: jicama, watermelon, papaya, pineapple, cucumber, orange juice, chilli salt ($9)
Young Hollywood salad: Farmers market greens, strawberries, blueberries, avocado, cucumbers, tomatoes, hemp seeds, Napa wine vinaigrette. ($22!) 

Jicama tostadas: crispy corn tostada, roasted tomatillo salsa, jicama cilantro slaw, avocado ($8)

Real fries: With Chef Ashley’s house made ketchup ($9)

Eggplant coconut curry: with crispy pappadums ($12)

Hand made quesadilla with corn and mushrooms:  corn tortilla, soy cheese, charred corn, mushrooms, onion, cilantro, salsa Molcajete ($12)

vegan chocolate chip cookies with chocolate mousse from our Pastry Chef Federico Fernandez (unfortunately I don’t think these are actually on the menu – but it doesn’t hurt to ask!)

Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
300 S Doheny Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
fourseasons.com/losangeles

Windows Lounge
Sunday: 5pm – 12:30am
Monday – Saturday: 11:00am – 1:30am
fourseasons.com/losangeles/dining/windows_lounge

“Like” the Four Seasons on Facebook
Follow the Four Seasons on Twitter

 

 

 

]]> http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/13/vegan-streat-menu-at-the-four-seasons-beverly-hills/feed/ 0 Vegan Pumpkin Bread Recipe http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/12/improved-vegan-pumpkin-bread-recipe/ http://www.veggywood.com/2011/11/12/improved-vegan-pumpkin-bread-recipe/#comments Sat, 12 Nov 2011 11:00:46 +0000 Veggywood http://veggywood.com/?p=4450

Just in time for the holidays, here is my family’s prized recipe for pumpkin bread that I’ve been veganizing for the last few years. My grandma used to make this, then my mom, and now I make it every year.  Now that I’ve started baking like a fiend, I made a few tweaks and I think the recipe is even better!

Equally good as loaves or cupcakes, it’s also really yummy with chocolate chips. Now, a lot of people wrinkle their noses at breads, but this is more of a cake. It’s super soft and moist, and you can almost eat it with a spoon! I give it as gifts and people are always shocked it is vegan.

Enjoy!

Polly’s Grandma’s Pumpkin Recipe (Veganized)

Dry ingredients:

3 1/3 cups SIFTED flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1.5 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (or 1 tsp ea nutmeg & cinnamon)
3 cups sugar

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup oil
2.5 cups regular canned pumpkin (not pumpkin filling, just plain pumpkin)
3/4 cup cold water
1 tbsp butternut squash soup (if needed)

Directions
1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Oil and flour baking pans/muffin tins or use a spray.
2. Sift flour (you can skip if you’re using “pre-sifted” flour). Add dry ingredients. SIFT AGAIN (Really important). Set aside.
3. Beat oil, pumpkin and water until well-blended.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients.  If it seems super dry to you, add up to a tbsp of butternut squash soup.  You probably won’t need this though. Mix until smooth (DON’T use electric beaters, it will “over mix” it and the consistency will turn out gummy). Add extras if desired:  nuts, chocolate chips (amazing!), dried fruit, etc.
5. Pour into prepared pans or muffin tins (double paper cups can be used). Fill only 3/4.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes (longer for loaves). Note: I’ve had to bake the vegan loaves for up to 40 minutes depending on oven temps. Definitely leave them in a good 20 minutes though without peeking or they may fall.

This makes 3 large loaves or 8-9 small loaves (or a combo of both), or a dozen or so muffins.

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