Celebrating

So Valentine's Day isn't really a big deal in my family, except that it is an opportunity to have a celebration. I used to spend time make cool little heart shaped baskets and putting chocolate in them. This year it was my daughter who made the really sweet card with a popup valentine. I spent my time making chicken enchiladas and chocolate cake for dinner.  Local chicken, local cheese, beans from Native Seed/ SEARCH (an organization close to my heart since I used to live in Tucson and joined when they were getting started.) I think of the beans as local since I bought them when I was out visiting family. I made a  quick salsa with canned tomatoes, cilantro, dried chili peppers (also Native Seeds/SEARCH) and lime. A meal made with love and enjoyed by all.

Definitely all-time best chocolate cake for us is the One- Bowl chocolate cake from the Honest Pretzels cookbook. It's vegan; it's simple. Since reading about local grains in New York, I am excited to do some experimenting with the flour.

These are our best celebrations, meals we all enjoy and time together.