Tricks and Treats

When I was a little girl, the only real connotation I had with Halloween was candy. I was fully convinced that the reason behind this holiday was to dress up in a ridiculous costume and flaunt my cuteness in front of complete strangers for the gluttonous reward of copious amounts of candy.

Now, as an adult and being progressively more experienced and reputable, I still believe that Halloween is just another holiday to celebrate indulgences, as most holidays are. However, I see absolutely nothing wrong in the act of rejoicing what would be another ordinary day in order to bring some delight, cheer and happiness to everyone's life.

I do enjoy this holiday, and even though I'm not one for going off the wall in decorations or festive attire, the occasional Halloween Costume Party is always a smashing good time. This weekend, Toly and I will be going to one and we've been throwing around some ideas as far as what to wear.

I think we have it nailed down to Die-Hard Phillies Fans. I know, pretty lame, but it's the best I could come up with and since I won't pay money for an overpriced piece of fabric, the Phillies jerseys will have to do. Plus, they will be playing game number 3 in the World Series that night, so it kind of works!

Looking back though, I can remember some of my favorite costumes as a child. One year I was a cat, another a bride, a gypsy, a cowgirl, a cheerleader, a princess. Obviously, I was never one to partake in the fear-provoking get-up. I was more a girly-girl when it came to playing dress up.

What about you? What were some of your favorite Halloween costumes of all time?

But to digress from the Halloween talk, how about some more thoughts of mine on some new products.

I don't know what it is, but lately, I have been exploring a plethora of new items. I must be feeling rather adventurous!

First, I give you,

Amiee's Vegetarian Black Bean Burrito

Now, you all know my love of Amiee's products. I have full faith in this lady because everything I have purchased from her has been something I have fully enjoyed. And that says a lot for packed and frozen meals because I don't normally consume these types of things.

But I needed to try something new from my beloved Spinach and Feta Pockets and I have always heard great reviews on her Burrito line.

Here are the stats on this guy:

Not bad!
I popped it in the microwave and then in the toaster so that it would form a crispy crust.
And then, I dressed this the only way I know how to dress any kind of Mexican food…

with lots of salsa and Greek Yogurt.

The Burrito was delightful. Full of beans and veggies that swam in a spicy black bean sauce. The tortilla was soft and delicate but had a flaky outer layer. Yum! Another winner in a quick frozen lunch option.

After work, I met Toly in our living room for a much needed Shred workout. We haven't done these in a few weeks and I knew Jillian was getting rather perturbed that we have been ignoring her. Don't worry Jillian, its back on lady!

Shredding makes us hungry, of course, so dinner was next on the agenda.

And guess what guys…..

A few more TJ's products were opened tonight.

The Sweet Potato Bisque

I usually don't get too enthused over boxed or canned soup, but sweet potato bisque is something that stimulates my senses.

I did embellish the actual soup a bit by adding diced green apple and ½ of a diced sweet potato that I slightly roasted with some cinnamon, brown sugar and paprika. Then, I blended it all together and added fresh chopped baby spinach.

Lastly, a few blue cheese crumbles and dried cranberries. (Curiosity of Trader Joes of course)

And a couple roasted pistachios...

Now that's a soup!

Along with the soup, I also made a wonderful little side salad. Roasted beet, apple and sweet potato with avacado in a Cranberry Dijon dressing (homemade).

And 1/2 a Whole White Cinnamon Raisin British Muffin (TJ's) with Pumpkin Butter (TJ's)

Delightful dinner!

And I bet you're wondering what Toly had….

Potato Bacon Cheddar Soup and a side salad, Toly style. (Corn, Bacon, Cheese, Tomato and Sour Cream)

With Garlic Toast

Right before dinner, I received some very difficult news. One of my best friend's father had passed away today. I have known her my entire life and I grew up as a part of her family, so this news was extremely devastating. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this time of despair.

Well, I must call this a day. It has certainly been a long one.

Night!