Monday, May 4th, 2009

I Pulled The Trigger – Just Bought My First Mac!!!

by Kristen in apple, blackberry, iMac, love nest maca smoothi

I did it! I went to the other side. I bought a Mac. I’ve been wanting to be in the group with the seemingly “cool” kids for some time now, but I kept putting it off. However, I couldn’t put it off anymore. My productivity is suffering and it’s time to upgrade. My reason for going to the Mac was because I’m a Raw foodie and the symbol for Mac is an apple. Hehehe… JUST KIDDING!

For the past many years, I’ve relied on my trusty Sony Vaio laptop. It’s had some issues but because I bought the extended warranty, I was covered when it acted up. I originally bought a slim laptop (vs. a desktop) because I was working in a corporate setting and I needed this for portability reasons, using in bed when working late, etc. But, it’s small. The screen is small. And, since I’m no longer working in that environment and I’m usually at home, it made sense to get a desktop. Even though my laptop is falling apart, I will still use it for travel so it’s not going into permanent retirement… only semi-retirement.

I’m on cloud nine for a while (a long while I suspect). I can wait until it arrives later this week. I know, I know… it’s only a computer. But, I expect GREAT things from this new addition to our family.

I suspect there will be a learning curve, but I’m not sure how intense. As most of you know, I have a BlackBerry (I frequently use this for email – talk about a life changing device for me!). From what I understand, I need to buy some software in order to back up my BlackBerry on my new iMac. Still need to figure all that stuff out. I’m also curious as to how people like Safari? How are the other programs?

Anyone have any advice or feedback?

Life is Good Indeed – Candy Kale Salad

by Kristen in blackberry, Candy Kale Salad, chocolate

I made it through my tech difficulties! My BlackBerry is alive and well (actually even better than before! Yay!). My web email was restored – thank heavens for that!!!!! And, the other issues I was dealing with… well, we have a plan with many options, so that alone empowers me, calms me, and gives me much hope (will share more intimate details with you over time regarding this).

Today was busy and fun. I tagged along with my husband and his business partner up to Flagstaff. I made him a bagged lunch with plenty of Raw vegan goodies (and made one for myself, too). It was nice and relaxing, although pretty chilly up there. Once we came home, I wolfed down a kale salad that had chopped dates, raisins, pecans, grape tomatoes, kale (massaged with the basic lemon juice, olive oil & Himalayan crystal salt), and diced avocado. I call the kale salad, Candy Kale Salad, because it is sweetly delicious. It’s an awesome transition recipe for those of you trying to get more kale (or any hearty greens) into your diet (or your family’s) but really want the sweetness to make it extra fun and tasty. Ha Ha – Who am I kidding? I’m not in transition and I’m eating it… because it’s YUMMY!

Tonight I’ve been in the kitchen working up a couple of final recipes for the chocolate book. I was all finished with it, and then a couple of nights ago, more recipes came to me as I was falling asleep. (This is common with me… so I keep a notepad and pen on my nightstand to jot down the recipes.) These recipes were so cool and unique that I HAD to experiment with them. Great news! They’re awesome! Therefore, I’m back to editing the book, which will delay publication, but I tell ya… it’ll be worth it!!!!

Some Crazy Days… But I’m Still Dancing

by Kristen in blackberry, chocolate, email newsletter, Kristen Suzanne, Kristen's Raw

Well, it’s been some crazy days for me. My BlackBerry basically blew up (not really, but you get the picture). I rely on this device to keep my business running in real time, no matter where I am, so it’s a big deal when it’s not working. Then, my web-based email followed suit (still trying to restore my account – yikes! Wish me luck!). Plus, some other things going on that I won’t get into the details with you (yet), but let’s just say…. it’s been a trying week. However! I’m staying strong! I’m deep breathing, exercising, and eating extra-extra well to keep my immune system in top shape. I’m listening to happy music to keep my spirits soaring. I’m dancing with my dog to calm my soul. And…. it’s all working! (smile).

It’s trying times like these that I’m ever so grateful for my healthy HRAV (high raw, all vegan) diet and lifestyle. I know I can count on it to keep my cells properly functioning, happy, and protecting me.

This week I’m adding the final touches to my lastest book and ebook, Kristen Suzanne’s Ultimate Raw Vegan Chocolate Recipes, as well as getting out my March email newsletter (sign up here) – I’m going to have some super yummy recipes in it, so don’t miss out!