Even as a baker, I used to mix everything by hand. I realize I sound crazier than ever typing that, but yes I did. Even for my bakery, I sifted, whisked, mixed, etc, all by hand. I tend to like the physical aspect of cooking because I'm allowed to completely submerge myself into that moment. I do have a food processor that I love, because pureeing nuts and beans is not something to do by hand. But generally, I don't really care for "appliances". Yes, I'm crazy.
But as any baker or cook, I always dreamed of getting one very...special...kitchen appliance. I would watch Ina Garten on Food Network, and although I can't eat anything she makes (does that even matter? I love her), I always imagined myself with my "ina white" kitchenaid stand mixer. I knew I wouldn't be putting down the money, even as an investment. Small businesses are not easy and you lose money for..well I'll let you know until when. Needless to say, my kitchenaid dream was only a fantasy.
I guess my family has finally accepted that I sometimes cook and bake, because they gifted me with something I'm still amazed I own. I got the special "retro pink" Breast Cancer Awareness KitchenAid, and well...it actually does make my life easier in a way I don't resent. IT IS A DREAM.
I know caffeine seems to be a controversial topic for vegans, health-conscious people, and anyone with stomach problems, but I love it. I actually gave up coffee completely for about a year, and drank green juice instead. While amazing in its benefits, it left me missing my ritual. I don't drink it FOR the caffeine, to me it is similar to the sophisticated quality of wine.
Recently, I've started brewing at home with my Hario 2 Cup Dripper. I buy ninth street espresso roasted by Intelligentsia, their special "Alphabet City Blend". It is love. Let me just say, coffee has never tasted so decadent.
Speaking of decadent, the non-dairy creamer gods have finally answered our prayers. I can't even TELL you how this shit has changed my life! I'm amazed it has taken this long, but finally we have a creamer that doesn't taste like beans (soy beans that is)! It is thick and delicious like cream should be, without the dairy taste or any weird additives. It's pretty pure and contains only coconut milk and thickeners, but note: it does not taste like coconut. I think this gives the product even more credibility, because to me it is just cream that I can drink. I've used in in soups, coffee, tea, cooking, baking, desserts, ETC! The options are endless! I have such anxiety about being without this product that I always have at least 2 on hand, just in case. Please support this company for revolutionizing non-soy, non-dairy creaminess.
***Can I just say an official congratulations to chronic illness not holding you back, and Lauren on the road to making a baby :). Congratulations, my sweet friend.
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