MAKE:
Broccoli salad is one of my favorite things, from my southern heritage, to make during the holidays. Before I was vegan (and mostly raw), I used to make the amazing Paula Deen's version, which included cheese and bacon, but now I make a vegan version I came up with and it tastes just as good as Paula's!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Bragg apple vinegar
- 1 cup Vegenaise
- 1 organic apple chopped
- 1 red onion chopped
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 6 cups chopped broccoli pieces
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Wash and dry broccoli thoroughly. Cut broccoli and stems into small pieces. Place in a large bowl. Add apples, red onions and walnuts. In a small bowl, combine remaining ingredients, stirring well. Add to broccoli and toss.
TRADITION:
One year our lovely Aunt Susie was hosting Thanksgiving and she did the neatest thing. When it was time to eat and everyone was gathered around the dining table, she passed around a pen and a white napkin and asked everyone to write their name and what they were grateful for on it. What a great tradition to start! In years to come, you can look back and reminisce about loved ones and grateful thoughts.
GIFT:
The pineapple has long been a symbolic image of welcome, good cheer and warmth. So why not take the gift of pineapples to your hostess? Not only are pineapples symbolic, they are a delicious and healthy gift to share! Don't forget to include this Rosle pineapple slicer -- it's the best one I have found!
MOVE:
Thanksgiving has the reputation of being the most unhealthy, over-indulgent day of the year. So why not start it with a local Turkey Trot run? I always do our local 5-miler and it is the most amazing feeling to start this day out the healthy way! Check Active.com for the Turkey Trot in your area.
SHARE:
Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to help the less fortunate. You can volunteer to serve food at homeless shelters on Thanksgiving Day. Often you can donate your time and still celebrate with your family in the late afternoon or evening. Plus, always remember to participate in canned food drives, especially during these economic times; there are many who could really use help this holiday season!
Be the change! Be the inspiration!
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