Yoga+Music {notquite365} Hey Eugene! by Pink Martini – Recipe Edition!

Posted on May 4, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Spring is here! Spring is here!

The best way to tell spring has arrived (besides the start of high stakes testing) is strawberries have started to show up at the farmer’s market.

Here’s how I have enjoyed them recently.

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} Destroyer of the Void by Blitzen Trapper – Recipe Edition!

Posted on April 27, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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The quest for yummy dairy alternatives continues. I thought I’d share my favorites so far.

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Finally, a yogurt I can eat. Texture is pretty close and the taste is great. I’m looking forward to trying other flavors.

Oh.My.Goodness. I totally thought my ice cream eating days were over. Not so, friends. Not so.

CHEESE!

Ok, really it is cheese-ish. The cheddar is like American cheese slices when it is melted.

MELTED! Whoo-hoo. I have been missing melted cheesy foods.

The thing I miss most about dairy is the creamy texture. Who knew? So I’ve done a crazy amount of texture/taste testing the last few months. So far, this is the creamiest alternative milk I’ve found. Plus, it’s delicious.

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

+++++

Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} The Songs of Leonard Cohen – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on April 13, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Stop the presses.

This recipe was so delicious, we raced home for the leftovers.

I was sad when it was gone.

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Chickpea and Zucchini Saute with Couscous

adapted from Supermarket Vegan: 225 Meat-Free, Egg-Free, Dairy-Free Recipes for Real People in the Real World

Ingredients

2 TBS + 1 tsp olive oil

3/4 tsp salt

1 cup couscous {I used Israeli couscous from Trader Joe’s and followed their directions. Browning is key!}

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 cup onion chopped

1 15 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise

1/2 tsp dried oregano

black pepper to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup chopped basil, mint or parsley

Directions

1. Make the couscous according to the package directions.

2. Heat 2 TBS olive oil in deep skillet with a lid, add onion and cook over medium heat until softened (about 3 minutes).

3. Add garlic, stir constantly about 1 minute.

4. Add chickpeas, zucchini, 1/4 cup water (or broth), oregano, and pepper. Cook, stirring, about 2 minutes until zucchini is softened.

5. Cover, reduce to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until zucchini is tender.

6. Remove from heat, add tomatoes, herbs and couscous.

7. Serve immediately.

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

+++++

Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

+++++

Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} Roadhouse Sun by Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses – Recipe Edition!

Posted on April 6, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Hola, friends!

Sorry for the pause on the recipe front, but learning how to feed myself all over again is challenging. Delicious, yet all new and with that, time-consuming.

The good news is I got a super easy vegan cookbook for my birthday and will be cooking out of it until I’ve tried them all. It’s so nice to read recipes and know there will probably not be anything I’m allergic to in them.

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Chilled Peanut Noodles

adapted from Supermarket Vegan: 225 Meat-Free, Egg-Free, Dairy-Free Recipes for Real People in the Real World

Ingredients

1 TBS toasted dark sesame oil

1 TBS creamy peanut butter

1 TBS sesame tahini {I subbed 1 TBS sesame seeds + another TBS of peanut butter}

1 TBS plain rice vinegar

1 TBS pure maple syrup

2 tsp low -sodium soy-sauce

1 tsp water

1 to 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2 tsp ground ginger

salt and pepper to taste

3 scallions, white and green parts, thinly sliced

10 oz rice noodles cooked accounting to package directions, rinsed under cold running water, drained well.

diced cucumber, diced red pepper

Directions

1. Put all the ingredients {minus onion, vegetables and noodles} in the food processor and blend until smooth. You may need to add a little water, I did.

2. Add diced vegetables and green onion to sauce.

3. Let stand a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Add noodles and toss well to coat.

5. Serve at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate a minimum of 2 hours or up to 1 day and serve chilled.

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

+++++

Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

+++++

Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} Hitchhike to Rhome by Old 97′s – Recipe Edition!

Posted on March 16, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s ~~Tuesday~~ Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Since our last go round with the Recipe Edition, I’ve been poked 32 times with potential allergens and *surprise*I’m highly allergic to 29! Granted most of these are what allergists refer to as “inhalant” – things in the air – which means I have really, really bad hay fever.

After much arm twisting and doctor doubts, also I was able to get tested for two specific foods – wheat and milk.

One of my new allergies is…. wait for it…. my beloved dairy.

So now I’m reading books with awesome titles like The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Dairy-Free Eating and The Everyday Dairy-Free Cookbook.

Today’s recipe is one I’ve been starting my day with.

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Almond Honey Tea

adapted from The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Dairy-Free Eating

Ingredients

1/2 cup filtered water

1/2 almond milk {my favorite is Pacific Natural Foods}

1 TBS local, organic honey

1 black tea of your choice {totally loving earl grey and english breakfast these days}

Directions

1. water and almond milk into a small saucepan

2. high heat until almost boiling, remove from heat

3. add tea bag and steep 3-4 minutes

4. pour into mug, stir in honey

5. stop wishing alternative milks had the same texture as cow’s milk

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What about you? What would you do if you just found out your favorite food is making you sick?

Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

BONUS VIDEO!

If you like what you see – be sure to catch them at Harlow’s in Sacramento on Saturday (!), June 4th.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

+++++

Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Spring Changes

Posted on March 13, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Spring means that change is in the air, friends and with that there are some changes coming to TGBTS.

Monday is the new Sunday. The link love/best of the blogs I read feature In Case You Missed It Edition is moving to Mondays. It will still give you a weekly wrap up of articles and posts related to health, happiness, food, teaching, yoga and fashion.

Wednesday is the new Tuesday because Yoga+Music {notquite 365} is hitting your reader and in-boxes Wednesdays starting this week. Recipes are going to continue to be fast and healthy, however now they will have a new dairy-free slant. I’m still trying to figure this whole dairy-free living out, so I’ll be sharing what I’m learning.

Album recommendations (or at least what I’ve been listening to lately) will still be featured in this weekly post.

Yoga class updates can be found on Wednesdays and on the Yoga Class Schedule page.

If change isn’t your thing, not to worry friends! Fridays will still feature Song of the Day and the weekly show and tell Saturday Senses will still be posted Saturday mornings.

Thank you for your continued support! Be sure to click on the email subscription button in the top right corner so all the posts will be delivered to your inbox.

If you are on Facebook, you can “like” Teacher Goes Back to School and you’ll be privy to some FB exclusive content.

If you are on Twitter, stop by and say hi!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} – Springtime Can Kill You by Jolie Holland – Recipe Edition!

Posted on February 8, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Even though the no sugar, dairy, soy, gluten, vinegars, and stimulants restriction has come to a close, I’m still interested in keeping a lot of the habits I picked up during the month.

Home-cooking a majority of meals from scratch, buying lots of vegetables at the farmer’s market (and actually eating them!) and trying new recipes using ingredients in ways I hadn’t ever thought to use together.

Today’s recipe fits into each of those categories.

It was easy, healthy and delicious.

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Butternut Squash Pesto Gratin
Adapted from Giada’s Family Dinners

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

2 TBS unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 inch pieces, plus more for baking dish

1 (3 pound) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces

salt and pepper

1/4 cup basil pesto

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees

2. Lightly butter 8 inch baking dish

3. Cut butternut squash in half, brush with olive oil, salt and pepper – roast on baking sheet, face up until soft.

4. Cool and cut squash into 1-inch pieces

5. Transfer the squash to food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.

6. Spoon half the squash evenly into the prepared baking dish.

7. Dollop half the pesto all over the squash and sprinkle with half the cheese.

8. Repeat layering.

9. Dot with butter and bake until the gratin is heated through and golden brown around the edges, about 40 minutes.

10. Serve

I served it with chicken and grilled zucchini.

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What about you?

Do you have any secret no-gluten foods you love? Vegetarian recipes you can’t get enough of?

Do you have any recipes to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the sleepy home practice. Parent teacher conferences will keep me out of the studio today.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

Starting in March – first Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

+++++

Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} Exploring the Axis by Thin White Rope – Recipe Edition!

Posted on January 4, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Happy New Year!

It’s hard to believe I started this recipe tradition a year ago. Sharing recipes has definitely kept me on the lookout for new favorites to pass on to you. It’s nice to have a reason to get out of a cooking rut and to also to archive my favorite recipes!

So thank you, dear readers.

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It’s hard for me to explain just how much I love winter food.

It’s warm, filling and comforting and nothing makes me feel better than knowing I’ve got some stew-y/casserole-y/chili-type thing made and ready to heat up for a quick lunch or dinner. Especially during the busy weeks just after a break.

Today’s recipe is from Small Changes Big Results: A 12-Week Action Plan to A Better Life by Ellie Krieger.

White Chili

Serves 6

Ingredients

2 TBS olive oil

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks

1 large onion, diced

3 garlic cloves

2 4-oz cans of chopped mild green chilis, undrained

1/2 cup tomatillo salsa (salsa verde)

1 14 oz can of low-sodium chicken broth

1/4 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp dried oregano

2 16 oz cans of white beans – drained and rinsed {I used 1 white and 1 red kidney beans}

3 TBS lime juice {I’ve never remembered to add this juice}

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Optional toppings:

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1 cup plain yogurt

1/2 shredded cheddar

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high flame. Add chicken and sauté until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

2. Add the remaining oil and onion – sauté until onion is tender (about 3 minutes).

3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.

4. Add chilis, salsa, chicken broth, cumin, and oregano – bring to boil – reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.

5. Add chicken and beans – cook 5 minutes more. Stir in lime juice.

Serve.

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What about you?

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice. I wanted to go to Madeleine’s Gentle class, but alas I was still at work.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

I had dinner with some of these dudes the other night. Good stuff.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ?

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} – I Am To Blame by The Maroons – Recipe Edition!

Posted on December 29, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Ok, so it’s not Tuesday. I’ll spare you the grim details, but there wasn’t a lot of thinking about food yesterday.

The good news is I’m feeling so much better today, I just made some homemade Lara Bars!

Why make something I can easily buy at the co-op? Good question!

They are kind of expensive and as it turns out, really easy to make. So why not?

Today’s recipe is from Wellsphere with directions from OhSheGlows.

Ingredients

1/3 cup roughly chopped dates

1/2 cup raw cashews

1 Tablespoon semi-sweet chocolate chips

Pinch of cinnamon

1/2 Teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

Directions

Follow the instructions in this post from Oh She Glows.

How easy is that?

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What about you?

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the restorative home practice. Winter is a quiet time for practice. Thank god, because that’s the only kind I’ve got in me.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is -

Can you tell I lived in the Pacific Northwest in the mid-90s? It’s 31 minutes of indie rock goodness.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ?

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music {notquite365} – Crazy: The Demo Sessions by Willie Nelson – Recipe Edition!

Posted on December 21, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Happy 1st day of Winter!

We’ve been experiencing our version of Northern California winter with promises of relentless rain showers only to be slightly disappointed when they are intermittent at best.

But still, nothing says Winter Break like making soup and hunkering down on the couch with the Google Reader while it simmers on the stove. Plus, it helps with my lame food confession and in my quest for staying healthy during the winter so I can get out and have some fun over break.

Today’s recipe is from Regina’s Vegetarian Table

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Soup

Serves 8-10

Ingredients

1 large onion, diced

3 carrots, peeled and diced {I’m not a peeler. Way too lazy for that nuttiness}.

2 potatoes, peeled and diced {See above}.

3 stalks celery, sliced

1/2 head cabbage, chopped

1 can (28 oz) tomatoes {I use Muir Glen Organic Fire Roasted – roasting makes tomatoes even more delish}

1 can (16 oz) pinto beans

1 can (15 oz) corn {I use organic frozen sweet corn instead}

1/4 cup extra virgin oil oil

pepper

dash of cayenne (optional)

2 quarts water {I use 1 quart filtered water and 1 quart organic free range chicken broth}

salt

Directions

1. In a large pot, saute onion in a little oil until slightly tender

2. Add remaining ingredients except salt. Simmer for at least 3 hours uncovered. Add salt and oil before serving.

How easy is that?

Additional ingredients

I also add cooked pasta, cooked chicken and some parmesan cheese. Toasted crusty bread makes for a comforting healthy meal.

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What about you?

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the restorative home practice. Pretty sure there is at least a 10 minute Savasana in my future. It’s like a power nap.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is –

I was surprised just how many classic songs he wrote. Love this record.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ?

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music (not quite365) – Recipe Edition!

Posted on December 7, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

{crisp + photo: vanessa vichit-vadakan}

During the Thanksgiving break when I had the cold from hell, I invited my friend Vanessa up to give me a cooking lesson. I wanted her to teach me some easy ways in bring more seasonal fruit into my life.

While she was here she made this delicious crisp and an equally delicious salad. We ate it that night right out of the oven drizzled with vanilla yogurt and heated up the next morning for breakfast.

This recipe was entered in the contest for Your Best Holiday Breakfast – I know I’m planning to make it during my holidays – easy and delicious!

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the restorative home practice.

Today’s music is – silence.

I’ve had way too much input recently. I am needing a little quiet.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ?

THIS FRIDAY – Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music (not quite 365) –Yours, Mine & Ours by The Pernice Brothers – Recipe Edition!

Posted on November 30, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

Every fall I find myself shelling out big bucks for container after container of fresh pomegranate seeds – ruby-red sweet/tart crunchy gems of deliciousness.

Aren't they pretty?

{click the picture for more information on this lovely treat}

Recently as I was munching away on a bowl full of these tiny treats, a friend told me she spent the weekend eating pomegranate seeds too. Her mom extracted the seeds for her and truth be told, I was green with envy.

Why isn’t anyone handing me giant bowls of these babies?

I have mangled enough pomegranates to know I am probably better off having someone else get those treats out for me.

And then I remembered the magic of the Internet!

A little research and tada!

A how to video

I have been liberated from my dependence on Trader Joe’s.

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the Gentle Yoga of Madeleine at It’s All Yoga. {She’s December’s Featured Teacher – stay tuned for an interview later this week.}

Today’s music is

{click the album cover for more information}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ? How about December 10th? Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music (not quite 365) – Music From the Edge of Heaven by Wham!– Recipe Edition!

Posted on October 26, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

It is finally fall here in Sacramento. Saturday was a rainy one and I was delighted to spend the day with this simmering on the stove.

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{Not So} Vegetarian Chili

Adapted from Regina’s Vegetarian Table

Serves 12

Ingredients:

1 large onion

1 bell pepper

1/2 pound fresh sliced mushrooms

1 280z can of diced tomatoes

1 6oz can of sliced olives

2 27oz cans of kidney beans {I used half red and half white beans}

3 TBS of chopped bacon bits {ah yes, the no-longer-vegetarian ingredient}

1 TBS chili powder

2 tsp dried thyme

Dash of cayenne

Salt

Pepper

Directions

In a large soup pot, sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil and some water.
Add mushrooms and sauté for about 2 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients.
Simmer over low heat for 3 to 5 hours (the longer the better)

Serve hot with cheese, sour cream and corn bread. Or over a baked potato. Mmmm, I love fall food.

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the Gentle Yoga of Madeleine at It’s All Yoga.

Today’s music is

{click the album cover for more information}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ? Please check my teaching schedule.

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music (not quite 365) – Tapestry by Carole King – Recipe Edition!

Posted on October 12, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

Here’s where I share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Macaroni and Cheese

adapted from The Food You Crave: Luscious Recipes for a Healthy Life by Ellie Kriger

Serves 8

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) box elbow macaroni

2 10 ounce packages of pureed winter squash (I used cubed frozen butternut squash from the SacCo-Op)

2 cups of low-fat milk

1 1/3 cups (4 oz) sharp cheddar grated

2/3 cups (2 oz) Monterey Jack cheese grated

1/2 cup part-skim ricotta (I forgot to buy it, so I used a little more Jack and Cheddar)

1 tsp salt

1 tsp dry mustard

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

2 TBS bread crumbs (I used sourdough heels, toasted and whirred in the food processor)

2 TBS Parmesan cheese grated

1 tsp olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Coat 9X13 baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and transfer to prepared baking dish {or put back in the pot like I did}
Meanwhile, put frozen squash and milk in a large saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally. Break yo the squash with a spoon until it is defrosted. Turn up the heat to medium and cook until the mixture is almost simmering, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from heat and stir in the cheeses, salt, mustard, and cayenne. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine.
Combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan and oil in a small bowl (or food processor). Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Bake until the cheeses are bubbling around the edges, about 20 minutes, then broil for 3 minutes so the top is crisp and nicely browned.

NOTES: I added a bunch of garlic powder to the cheese mixture and I’d add fresh herbs if I would have had some. I also serve with green vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Today’s music is

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ? Please check my teaching schedule.

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If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Saturday Senses

Posted on October 9, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Saturday Senses is a way to capture the spirit of each week.

tasting :: sesame chicken pasta salad with spinach

hearing :: prince from the past and old 97s from the future

smelling :: earl gray tea in the b quad

seeing :: my mom for a brief visit from texas

feeling :: a whole lot of i-don’t-wanna – mr. procrastination is currently visiting and is making himself comfortable

wishing/hoping :: for a productive and prolific week

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

{comments inspired by Havi at The Fluent Self – Friday Chicken – go see for yourself. it’s like free therapy! }

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

{click image for source}

Yoga+Music (not quite 365) – The Grand Theatre, Volume One by Old 97’s – Recipe Edition!

Posted on October 5, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

Here’s where I share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad

adapted from allrecipes.com

Serves 6

Ingredients

1 (12 ounce) package radiatore pasta

1/4 cup sesame seeds

1/4 cup salad oil

3/4 cup soy sauce {I used low sodium}

1/2 cup white wine vinegar {I used rice wine vinegar}

3 1/2 tablespoons sugar {I only used 2 Tbsp of sugar since the rice wine vinegar has sugar in it}

2 cups cubed, cooked chicken {seasoned with garlic and black pepper}

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 cup coarsely chopped green onion

4 cups torn fresh spinach leaves

Directions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in sesame seeds and cook until golden brown. Remove from heat. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Pour dressing into a sealable container, and set aside. {or just pour it in with the warm pasta and try not to eat too much of it}
In a large bowl, mix together pasta, cooked chicken, and 1 cup dressing (reserve remaining dressing). Cover salad, and refrigerate at least 6 hours. {I put in all the dressing and the pasta and chicken soaked it up – delicious!} {We couldn’t wait 6 hours, we ate it after 3 – still yummy}
Directly before serving, stir in parsley, green onions, and spinach. Toss with remaining dressing, if desired.

This recipe was delicious hot or cold, with or without the spinach.

What are your go-to healthy foods?

How do you change your diet based on the season?

Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Today’s music is

click on the album to listen

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

Looking for a restorative YogaNap ? Please check my teaching schedule.

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If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music (not quite 365) Mud is My Ally by Harvester – Recipe Edition!

Posted on July 6, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means the Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Tofu Salad

adapted from The Gorgeously Green Diet: How to Live Lean and Green by Sophie Uliano

Serves 4

MARINADE:

4 Tbsp toasted sesame oil {this is reason enough to love this recipe!}

5 Tbsp cider vinegar {I used rice wine instead}

1 Tbsp agave {or honey}

3 Tbsp soy sauce {I used low sodium}

2 cloves minced garlic

1 tsp minced fresh ginger

1 pound extra firm organic tofu {drain really well}

1 carrot cut into match sticks {I chopped in the Cuisinart}

1 red bell pepper chopped {Mrs. Lazy-pants tossed this in the Cuisinart too}

2 scallions minced

TOPPING:

crushed peanuts

chopped cilantro

Serve as a dip with crackers.

No photos today. This salad is not pretty. I couldn’t even find a suitable photo on the web. It’s ugly food, but it tastes really good.

What are your go-to healthy foods? How do you change your diet based on the season? Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Today’s music is Mud is my Ally by Harvester.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

I’m scheduled to teach August 20th! It’s going to be a YogaNap – if you’re interested in restorative yoga, please sign up online to reserve your spot.

Office Hours with Michelle are on Fridays from 3:30-4:30, so come on by the studio before class and say hi!

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

Yoga+Music(notquite365) Time Without Consequence by Alexi Murdoch – Recipe Edition!

Posted on June 8, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means the Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

It is the last week of school and I’m feeling quite rushed for time. This need for speed has shown up in all areas of my life and especially in my kitchen. I’ve still be seeking healthy options, but during these last couple weeks the need for speed has trumped all.

I’ve eaten today’s recipe a couple of times over the last weeks and have forgotten to take photos each time. A bit preoccupied I guess.

You’ll need to picture dark green leaves, deep purple slices and bright white creamy bits with chopped nuts.

Today’s recipe is more of an assembly, rather than a cooking recipe. Thank goodness for Trader Joe’s and their inexpensive healthy ingredients.

Beet, Spinach, Goat Cheese Salad

Serves 2

1 packet of TJ’s ready to eat beets rinsed and sliced (an egg slicer makes this job so easy)

half bag of ready to eat baby spinach (rinse and dry one more time just to be sure)

a crumble of soft goat cheese

a handful of chopped nuts {pecans are my favorite}

a drizzle of olive oil

a splash of balsamic vinegar

salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble on the plates.

What are your go-to healthy foods? How do you change your diet based on the season? Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the restorative home practice. I’m still finishing up paperwork at school, so class seems unlikely.

Today’s music is Time Without Consequence by Alexi Murdoch.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

I’m scheduled to teach July 9th!

Office Hours with Michelle are on Fridays from 3:30-4:30, so come on by the studio before class and say hi!

Yoga+Music(not quite 365) Infinite Light by Lightning Dust – Recipe Edition! Guest Post!

Posted on May 18, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means the Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

I’m thrilled to announce that Teacher Goes Back to School has its very first GUEST POST!

Today’s recipe and divine food photos are from Vanessa over at The Beet Goes On and Good Things Come to Those Who Wait.

The Payoff

I’m all for food that is easy to prepare. Maybe not so much the frozen pizza rolls, exactly, but more like a hunk of bread spread with soft goat cheese and topped with strawberry jam. Or roasted vegetables, which require so little preparation aside from a few swipes of the knife and a dousing of olive oil and salt before they go into the oven. A roasted chicken. Perfectly ripe strawberries that require that you do nothing but wash and savor.

You get the idea.

So when it comes to fava beans, a most delicious reason to love spring, I sometimes hesitate buying them. Each little prized nugget is wrapped in its own protective little sac, and then those little sacs, say 5 or 6, are nestled into a large, leathery, fibrous pod. Getting to the sweet bean itself requires some combination of peeling, shucking, poking, cutting, squeezing, prodding, tearing, pulling, pinching, and extracting.

It’s not difficult work, but it’s repetitive and can take a while. It’s the kind of project to tackle when you have a podcast of “This American Life” you need to catch up on or when you’ve got someone who can lend another set of hands and some conversation. I usually slip into a quasi-meditative state as I hit my shelling rhythm– but only if I’m not hungry when I start out, or all I can think about is shoving handfuls of favas into my mouth.

An armful of the whole pods might yield just a few cups of beans, but those beans are worth all the effort that go into them. They’re firm but kind of creamy, buttery but kind of green and bright. And though not the most convenient of foods, the reward for the work is big– and delicious.

Here’s a simple recipe that really allows the favas to shine. This method of roasting the beans whole and then shelling them is a little easier for me than shelling the beans raw– with the skins softened a bit, they’re a bit easier to manipulate.

Fava and Ricotta Crostini

makes 4 large pieces or 8-12 smaller pieces

2 pounds fresh fava beans in pods (to yield 1 heaping cup of cooked, shelled beans)
extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
juice of one lemon
1/4-1/2 teaspoon sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
firm, sturdy bread, such as a whole grain sourdough loaf, baguette, or batard cut into slices about 3/4″ thick
1 cup fresh ricotta

Preheat oven to 425ºF.

Rinse and dry the fava beans. Put them on a rimmed baking sheet large enough to lay them out in a single layer. Toss them with about 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Roast the beans, tossing them once during cooking (tongs are helpful for this), for about 10 minutes or until the shells begin to wilt. You don’t want too much color on them– just a slight change in texture. Plus the residual heat will continue to cook the beans after they’re out of the oven.

still in the pod

Remove the tray from the oven and allow beans to cool until they can be handled with bare hands. Remove the pods from the shells. Then remove the beans from the pods and set aside in a bowl. (I usually pinch off a tiny piece of the shell on the seam and squeeze the fava bean out.)

a coming out party

Season the favas with the lemon zest and juice, sea salt, a few grinds of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Toast or grill the bread. Evenly distribute and spread the ricotta over the toasts, then divide the favas evenly over the ricotta.

ready to eat!

Drizzle with a little more olive oil.

Eat. Enjoy the payoff.

beautiful

(P.S. It’s really a treat to be Tami’s guest blogger, especially on Recipe Tuesday! Many thanks for sharing your patch of the internet with me, Tams!)

Editor’s Note: I totally appreciate V3 as she’s known around here, sharing her deliciousness with my readers. <3

What are your go-to healthy foods? How do you change your diet based on the season? Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the restorative home practice. I am home with a cold today and already using my Hugger Mugger bolster under my knees. <3

Today’s music is Infinite Light by Lightning Dust.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

A big thanks to those who came to my and Donna’s class last Friday! Always an honor to practice with you.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

I’m teaching with Erin - May 28th!

I’m also scheduled to teach July 9th!

Office Hours with Michelle are on Fridays from 3:30-4:30, so come on by the studio before class and say hi!

Yoga+Music(not quite 365) Mermaid Avenue by Billy Bragg & Wilco – Recipe Edition!

Posted on May 11, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means the Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

I made this recipe a couple of weeks ago for a staff potluck lunch and it disappeared quickly. The staff seemed to really like this dish. It’s really easy and it heats up well for lunch. I made some for us this weekend and I’m having it again for lunch today!

Enchiladas [not so] Verde

Adapted from Regina’s Vegetarian Table

Serves 5 to 10

1 cup diced onions (or a whole one if you’ve got it, depending how much you like onion)

1/2 cup diced bell peppers (or none if you don’t have them or they aren’t in season)

2 TBS oil

1 cup corn (or the whole bag of frozen sweet corn from Trader Joe’s)

1 cup pinto or black beans (canned and rinsed – just toss the whole thing in!)

1/3 cup diced green chilies (use whole can! – to hell with the recipe!)

1 can (2.25 oz) chopped olives

1/4 cup taco sauce

1/3 cup water

2 TBS masa

chili powder

salt

10 corn tortillas

8 oz grated Monterey Jack cheese

1 large can/bottle enchilada sauce (I love Trader Joe’s)

Saute onions and bell peppers in oil and a little water until tender. Add corn, beans, chilies, olives, taco sauce and water. Heat until bubbly and sprinkle in masa. Cook until mixture thickens. Add chili powder and salt to taste. Set aside.

[This is where she says to individually steam each tortilla and you are more than welcome to do that, but I am just going to put some sauce on the bottom of the pan and get all the tortillas moist with sauce. I'll be making more of a casserole rather than rolled enchiladas - because I'm lazy like that.]

Cover the bottom of a baking pan with a thin layer of enchilada sauce
cover the sauce with tortillas cover the tortillas with the filling
cover the filling with cheese (leaving some for the top)
cover the cheese with another layer of tortillas
cover tortillas with enchilada sauce
cover sauce with cheese.

Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.

Serve with avocado and sour cream.

a whole lotta enchiladas

top view

inside view

ready to eat!

What are your go-to comfort foods? How do you change recipes to fit your needs at the moment? Send me your recipe and you may find yourself featured here!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga.

Today’s music is Mermaid Avenue by Billy Bragg and Wilco.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

I’m teaching with Donna - May 14th!

I’m also teaching with Erin - May 28th!

Office Hours with Michelle are on Fridays from 3:30-4:30, so come on by the studio before class and say hi!

Yoga+Music(notquite365) Grace by Jeff Buckley – Recipe Edition!

Posted on May 4, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means the Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Confession: Green Smoothies strike fear in my heart.

A green smoothie?

I know, I wondered the same thing.

From what I gathered, it is different kinds of fruit AND vegetables tossed in the blender together to make a super-duper healthy concoction.

The vegetables (spinach, kale, chard) give the smoothie its green hue.

That’s the part that (until very recently) made me gag.

Who wants to drink their vegetables?

I’m not sure that I did, but since my Lame Food Confession I have been on a quest to get more into my body.

Sooooooo, here’s today’s recipe.

Berry Blast

1 cup raspberries
1 cup blueberries
1 apple
3 big handfuls of baby spinach
2 cups of water

Blend until smooth, and enjoy!

my trusty 2 speed blender

berries and apple

into the glass blender

it's NOT EVEN GREEN!

Recipe courtesy of Green Smoothie Challenge brought to me by Amanda at Urban Almanac.

What are your favorite sneaky ways to trick yourself into eating more fruits and vegetables? Share your tricks and recipes and you may find yourself featured here.

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga.

Today’s music is Grace by Jeff Buckley.

Yoga+Music(notquite365) – You Are Free by Cat Power – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on April 20, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Tuesday! And that means The Recipe Edition!

Each Tuesday I will share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Carrot Slaw

Serves 2

2 carrots – shredded

juice of 1 orange

oranges

handful of raisins

handful of sunflower seeds

so much better with orange juice

Mix and eat!

Courtesy of Jenna from Adventures of a 21st Century Family. Stop on by for some armchair travel and tips for traveling with toddlers.

Do you have any stealth ways to get yourself to eat more fruit and vegetables? Please share your favorite recipes and tips!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento.

Today’s music is You Are Free by Cat Power.

The In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 3

Posted on April 13, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

I’ve recently discovered the wonderful world of blogs, Twitter and the idea of creating community online. I am aware I am late to the party, however it’s better to be late than never arrive.

Who knew the Internet was full of such wonderful, caring, compassionate people?

Occasionally, I’ll post my favorite posts from other people here.

The In Case You Missed It Edition!

The Book of You – on The Fluent Self. I think everyone should start writing theirs.

Jennifer Louden, author of The Women’s Comfort Book and others, also writes a blog. Here’s a can’t miss post – Choose Your Life Mondays – the It Isn’t A Big Ding Dang Do Edition where she talks about minimum requirements for self-care (MRSC).

“MRSC’s are the basic things you need to stay in touch with yourself, to have a strong foundation to meet the rather constant challenges of life, and to ease the noise in your head.”

Michelle asks, “What One Thing?” – as in what is YOUR special talent?

Homemaking - Amanda explores what it means to be a SAHM. Really hit a chord with me.

If you have a favorite blog that you’d want everyone to read if you were in charge of the universe, please let me know about it here. Leave me a comment about your favorites and maybe I’ll start reading them too.

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Yoga+Music(notquite)365 (day104)

Today’s yoga brought to you by the kitchen home practice.

Today’s music is Elephant by The White Stripes.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

Free class for School Teachers in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week – May 1st. Yoga Nap+Milk and Cookies.

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching with Donna – May 14th!

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 103 – Midnight at the Movies by Justin Townes Earle – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on April 13, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Blueberry Oatmeal Cottage Cheese Pancakes!

Serves one

2 eggs

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/3 cup cottage cheese

2 cups blueberries (I used thawed in the microwave frozen organic from Trader Joe’s)

Blend in blender (minus the blueberries)

Mix blueberries into the batter

Pour onto skillet; flip when it bubbles up.

Excellent with real maple syrup and peanut butter

Courtesy of Kelly from @copylicious

MC is ready to eat!

Do you have any stealth ways to get yourself to eat more fruit and vegetables? Please share your favorite recipes and tips!

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 (day97) – #SwapAsana Edition!

Posted on April 7, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Spring.

What does it mean to you?

Maybe it means cleaning house.

Exchanging your warm winter clothes for sandals and t-shirts.

Maybe it’s a process of letting some things in your life go, in order to make room for new things.

Maybe it’s about shaking things up and trying new things.

Maybe it’s about shedding your usual thoughts or trappings of life and trying on something a little out of the ordinary.

OR MAYBE IT’S JUST ABOUT NEW CLOTHES!

This past weekend, I went to my very first clothes swap — #stitchswap (click the link for photos).

O.M.G!

For a $5.00 donation (all proceeds going to charity) and one article of clothing, I had access to mounds of clothes.

I made out like a bandit.

Three super cute bags – check out the photos - Yes, I took that flowered one home with me!

Three necklaces

Two deliciously pink scarves

Six t-shirts

Six blousey blouses

One poke-your-eyes-out-cute sweater

Two pairs of perfectly fitting jeans (including a pair of black skinny True Religion jeans!)

WHAT DOES ALL THIS HAVE TO DO WITH YOU?

April 24th from 3-5pm

It’s All Yoga is hosting their first ever #SwapAsana!

WHAT IS #SWAPASANA?

It’s a clothes swap being held in a yoga studio.

Get it?

Swap in the place where you do asana (poses)… ok, maybe not the best name for it, but it makes me giggle every time I say it.

What’s the little # for?

That’s a Twitter thing. If you add a # to your thing’s name, it makes it easier to search. So if you are on Twitter and talk about #SwapAsana – be sure to add the #, so we know who is in the conversation.

Ok, back to the details.

WHO: You and all of your female friends

ALL SIZES are WELCOME! We are trying to share the swap-asana love with all of our friends. So bring yours – we can’t wait to meet them!

But, what if I don’t live in Sacramento?

If you are close enough to drive, I think it’ll be worth the time. Snacks, cool women, the CLOTHES….

WHAT: Bring a $5 donation and at least one article of gently used clothing to swap for a new-to-you piece for your wardrobe

WHEN: April 24th from 3-5pm

WHERE: It’s All Yoga at 21st and X Streets in Midtown Sacramento.

WHY: It’s eco, it’s affordable, it’s awesome to get “new” clothes!

RSVP here.

Leave me a comment if you have any questions. I hope you all can make it!

JCrew halter dress - Will it go home with you?

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Yoga+Music(notquite)365 (day97)

Today’s yoga brought to me by ME. A home practice is in order.

Today’s music is Rhett Miller – Self-Titled. A fellow Rhett fan is in town, so in her honor we’ll be listening.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com

* I’m teaching May 14th with Donna. Put it on your calendar so you don’t miss it!

Free class for School Teachers in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week – May 1st.

Yoga Nap+Milk and Cookies.

Teacher Keeps Going Back to “School”

Posted on April 5, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Do you ever find yourself really excited about something new? Do you find yourself sleeping less and yet functioning just fine because you are hyper-focused on your new thing?

That’s me.

A lot of the time.

I find something I’m interested in and I dive in head first.

I try to find out as much as I can about whatever I’m interested in as quickly as possible.

All that being said, I’ve got lots of projects I’m working on – both on and off-line that are taking up loads of time.

In a good way.

Here are some of the highlights of studio projects I’m working on that are taking place in real life in the near future:

Swap-Asana! A women’s clothing swap being held at It’s All Yoga - 21st and X in Midtown Sacramento – April 24th.

o.m.g! I went to my first swap this weekend and let’s just say this may be one of the most exciting events EVER. I’ll dedicate a whole post to it later.

Yoga Nap + Milk and Cookies! A free yoga class in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week - May 1st.

Book Worms! – LovingKindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness – May 23rd.

If you live in Sacramento and any of those strike your fancy, come join me!

What in-real-life projects are you working on? What’s keeping you busy these days? How are you spending your time?

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The other projects I’m working on are more behind the scenes type of things.

Some highlights:

Reading some of Seth Godin’s marketing books.

Tribes is totally speaking to my inner cheerleader right now.

The Unconventional Guide to the Web – Using Social Media As A Force for Good with Gwen Bell and Chris Guillebeau. So much good stuff to take in and use.

Making some connections with more yogis through Twitter and Facebook.

Through all of this, learning social media is about having a conversation. – which sounds a lot like teaching….

How do you use social media to help your projects reach your right people? How do you connect and converse with the people who would love your product, project or service if they just knew about it?

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Yoga+Music(notquite)365 (day95)

Today’s yoga brought to me by ME at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento. I’m subbing for Michelle tonight.

Today’s music is Consolers of the Lonely by The Raconteurs.

If you love guitar-based music, you also may want to check out the documentary on the electric guitar called It Might Get LOUD - featuring Jack White (The White Stripes and The Raconteurs), The Edge (U2) and Jimmy Paige (Led Zeppelin).

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m sub-teaching TODAY- for Michelle at 5:45. Level 1-2, so every body is welcome.

Free class for School Teachers in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week – May 1st. Yoga Nap+Milk and Cookies.

The In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 2

Posted on April 4, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

I’ve recently discovered the wonderful world of blogs, Twitter and the idea of creating community online. I am aware I am late to the party, however it’s better to be late than never arrive.

Who knew the Internet was full of such wonderful, caring, compassionate people?

Occasionally, I’ll post my favorite posts from other people here.

The In Case You Missed It Edition!

Impermanence – My father has Alzheimer’s disease. Last night, during a family conference call, we decided it is time to move him into the dementia unit of the retirement community where my parents live…..

Bob has a way of cutting right to the important parts. See if you can read this without feeling deeply.

Good Enough is the New Perfect is the title of the upcoming book by my Twitter friends @holleeinbalance and @beckyinbalance. Their blog is a treasure box full of gems about issues around work and family. A must read! Plus Hollee is a fellow yogi!

This week’s guest post is by a woman who has 30 HOURS of LEISURE time a WEEK. If that doesn’t grab your attention, I don’t know what will. It sure got mine.

Social Change Through Simple Living pretty much sums it up, doesn’t it? That’s what @RowdyKittens is all about. Tammy S is a former Sacramentan, now Portlander (hello, opposite of me!) explores the notion of living a fuller, richer life with less stuff. I think she may be on to something.

The Beet Goes On is my friend V3′s chronicling of her life in NYC. Filled with food photos that make you want to bite your monitor. This girl rocks.

Last but not least, the woman with so many ideas I want to steal.

Office Hours at Gwen Bell, Big Love in a Small World. – LOVE HER. I wish I was in Boulder. I just may have to copy this. Who wants to meet for office hours?

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Yoga+Music(notquite)365 (day94)

Today’s yoga brought to you by Michelle at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento.

Today’s music is Away We Go Movie Soundtrack. I’ve been loving the movie soundtracks recently, even those movies that didn’t make me love them. Go figure.

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Yoga Teaching Update:

FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m sub-teaching 4/5/10 – for Michelle at 5:45. Level 1-2, so every body is welcome.

Free class for School Teachers in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week – May 1st. Yoga Nap+Milk and Cookies.

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 93 – Challengers by The New Pornographers- Yoga + MusicRoundUp Edition!

Posted on April 3, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Yoga+Music(not quite365) UPDATE:

Daily yoga is still a work in progress.

I am practicing yoga more frequently than ever and am to the point of feeling the effects more when I don’t practice than when I do. Must mean it’s really becoming a part of my life.

It reminds me of a story a neighbor of mine told me about running. She said used to run for the high, then something happened. She no longer felt that runner’s euphoria. Instead she felt grumpy, sore and unlike herself when she didn’t.

Yoga is kinda like that for me now.

Daily music check in.

Yes, I am listening to music everyday. Remember, now I’m listening to a couple new albums per week, instead of the insane new record a day craziness.

My listens this week includes:

Quasi – American Gong – Total thumbs up! Glad to be loving Quasi again. The last couple of albums didn’t speak to me. Although if you are looking for vintage toe tapping booty shaking goodness, I’d still reach for Birds and R&B.

american gong by quasi

The New Pornographers Challengers – ANOTHER HIT! (a b-day gift from my lovely friend, Madeleine)

Crazy Heart Movie Soundtrack - Love it. Jeff Bridges and Collin Farrell can really sing. Ryan Bigham’s songs are some of my favorites.

De Nova by The Redwalls – Thank You – on repeat – LOVE THIS SONG! Seriously, it’s like potato chips, you can’t just have one.

American Idiot by Green Day – What can I say? Excellent workout music. Makes those laps around the park more fun. Or at least go faster.

What’s the Story Morning Glory – Oasis – Visiting my youth.

Blame it on Gravity by Old97s – No Baby I, Here’s to the Halcyon, and The One – hits I tell you!

Chutes Too Narrow by The Shins – My favorite Shins – by far.

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Teaching Update:

I’m subbing for Michelle at It’s All Yoga at 5:45 Monday 4/5. It’s a Level 1-2, so every body is welcome.

I’m teaching a FREE class for school teachers 5/1 – I’m calling it Yoga Nap+ Milk and Cookies.

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 88 – Crazy Heart Movie Soundtrack- Resilience Edition!

Posted on March 29, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Lately I feel like I’ve been wearing my feelings on the outside of my body. That heightened sense of vulnerability has left me feeling uneasy.

During yoga yesterday, Michelle read an excerpt from poet David Whyte where he uses the image of walking down a country dirt road: A huge storm comes. You take shelter in the barn until the storm passes. Sometimes the warmth and protection of the barn feel so good, so easy and safe, you never leave. But you have to get back on the road. You have to keep going.

She spoke briefly about resilience and how it’s easy for some people to bounce back from events while others take more time. She used the barn analogy to illustrate how some have sought protection in the barn and maybe gotten stuck.

It’s funny because she wrote about getting stuck in the comforting place while I wondered where I find comfort.

In a way, yoga has become that comforting place.

So struck by this idea of resilience, I got up from my mat. I grabbed a pen and piece of paper to capture what came up for me during class.

I won’t bore you with the details, but let’s just say I was left with the feeling that I’ve somehow lost some of my former resilience, or the ability to “bounce back” from difficult experiences.

When I shared this with Michelle, she offered a different perspective.

She asked if maybe I hadn’t really lost my resilience, but rather shed some of the armour I’d built around my heart.

The tears that briefly came up in that moment were indicator that something is brewing in there.

What are your thoughts on resilience? How do you cope with the hard parts of life? Has it gotten easier or harder over the years?

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Teaching Update!

Saturday, May 1st from 3-4:30 I’m teaching a FREE class for school teachers to celebrate the beginning of National Teacher Appreciation Week.

Think of it as a yoga nap – plus milk and cookies!

If you or someone you know teaches school for a living, please save the date.

21st and X – Sacramento, CA

www.itsallyoga.com

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Fridays 4:30 are still FREE at @itsallyoga!

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 87 – Contra By Vampire Weekend – Holy Moly Homemade Foodstuffs Edition!

Posted on March 28, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

My friend Amanda recently posted about making eco-licious lotion, bread, yogurt and granola at home.

It all sounded delightful, so I asked if I could move in with her and her family.

I still haven’t heard back from her.

Oh well.

The good news is that I was inspired by her homemade goodness.

That, and I have NINE glorious work free days of Spring Break to fill with whatever I choose.

Day One’s goodies?

Homemade Tahini

1 cup of sesame seeds (only $0.62 from the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op!)

1/4 cup organic sesame oil

Homemade Granola (adapted from The Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone)

6 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup Bob’s Red Mill Flaxseed Meal

1/2 cup shredded coconut

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1 cup raisins

1/2 cup sesame oil

1/2 cup maple syrup (B grade)

1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake oats for 10 minutes in a rimmed baking pan. Transfer oats to large bowl, and sugar, Bob’s, coconut, seeds and raisins. Stir to mix then add oil, syrup and vanilla. Mix until moistened.

Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Stir after 5 minutes (although I forgot and it was just fine).

Cool in the pans and transfer into an airtight container.

We’ve already eaten some with milk and over yogurt with fruit.

Delicious!

What are your favorite homemade goodies?

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 86 – Oracular Spectacular by MGMT – Lame Food Confession Edition!

Posted on March 27, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

The changing of the season necessitates the changing of the wardrobe. Sweaters, long sleeve t-shirts and jeans out. Sleeveless tops, tanks, shorts and skirts in.

This annual changing of the wardrobe means that it is time to try on my spring and summer clothes. Every year I am surprised to find that my warm weather clothes don’t quite fit as well as I remembered them doing when I stored them at the end of the summer.

All this perfectly coinsides with my realization that despite thinking of myself as a healthy eater, I almost never eat the recommeded daily allowance of fruit and vegetables. Depending on who you ask, some say 5-a-day while others (like Harvard’s School of Public Health) advocate between five and thirteen servings per day.

In any case, I’m woefully low by either standard most winter days.

How lame is that?

So before I go all gung-ho dieting nutty so I can fit comfortably in my clothes, I decided I am simply going to add more fruit and vegetables to what I already eat every day.

Simple, but sometimes that’s all it takes.

How do you get in your fruits and vegetables in every day? Any secrets you care to share?

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at It’s All Yoga – 21st and X Streets – Sacramento, CA 95818 – www.itsallyoga.com

Yoga+Music(notquite)365 – Day 75 – Fox Confessor Brings the Flood by Neko Case – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on March 16, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

SNACKS!

Today I’d like you to meet and make friends with the date. (Click the link for the nutritional information on this amazing fruit).

Dates are high in dietary fiber, low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium, and contain more potassium than bananas!

Dates are sweet, healthy, filling little treats and when they are paired with a lightly salted cashew or almond – perfection!

I keep a little container of dates and nuts in my desk at work and snack on them in class. My students are always interested in what I’m eating, but not once has one of them taken me up on the offer to try one.

I can’t even get J. to try one. He thinks they are ugly.

What do you think?

Better than bananas

Please let me know if you have ever tried dates and what you think.

What are your favorite healthy snacks? I need some ideas how to keep hunger at bay.

Please share your favorite recipes!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by me! I am teaching my BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support & Assessment) classes to new teachers today and I’ve got to get myself ready.

Today’s music is Fox Confessor Brings the Flood by Neko Case. – This is my reentry back into listening to music. I’ve taken some time off – being sick made me crave silence. I guess I’m finally starting to feel like myself again.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

WWTD?

Posted on March 12, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

What would Tami do?

The “old” Tami would scrap the whole Yoga+Music365 project completely because it’s been a couple weeks since she’s posted anything and because she’s having a really hard time keeping up with the overly ambitious music schedule.

Good thing the “old” Tami has been quietly noticing her patterns and has come up with a new “plan”.

The daily music was INSANE. However, I’ve enjoyed finding new music. I’m still going to post about music, just not every day or every week. I’ll do it when the mood strikes me.

The “old” Tami would cry in her beer because she failed to keep up with even a one-pose-a-day yoga home practice when she was sick knowing legs up the wall can pretty much cure anything.

The daily yoga really does feel good. It also keeps me thinking about self-care on a daily basis. I’m going to get back to it.

The “old” Tami would wish that she would have never gone public with her blog and would have felt like a failure because she didn’t realize her goals.

As it turns out, a daily blog project is pretty ambitious. Probably too ambitious for someone with a full-time teaching job and bonus yoga teaching job etc.

The “old” Tami would feel bad about herself because she got sick despite taking really good care of herself.

What can I say? I don’t mess around when I get sick. I don’t know why I seem to get sicker and stay sick longer than others, but I do. I’m going to try to stop freaking out about getting sick and maybe I won’t so often. Who knows? I’m exhausted by it all.

The “old” Tami would be embarrassed that she isn’t going to do the half-marathon after all.

Getting sick made me reevaluate my purpose for the half-marathon training: to do cardio exercise on a regular basis. Check! Plus I met some truly wonderful women in the process that have expressed an interest in continuing to walk together. Bonus.

The “old” Tami would have brushed off the epic hormonal meltdown last month and not called her doctor – AGAIN.

My hormones make me feel like an angry teenager sometimes. Did I mention the ANGER? Yeah, so I called my doctor and I’m going to try some pills to make my hormones behave more civilly.

The “old” Tami would have not reached out to friends, but turned inward until she felt better.

I have really, really amazing friends. Thanks for all the support and love.

Yoga+Music365 (day61) – R&B Transmogrification by Quasi – The Recipe Edition – Cough Care Parts 1+2!

Posted on March 2, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Cough Care Part 1

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp honey (local + organic = best)

Sacramento Beekeeping Supplies = best kept secret in Sacto!

Mix to paste.

Gag down.

Follow with warm water.

Cough Care Part 2

Heat (but not boil water) in saucepan, remove from heat.

Carefully place bottle of organic sesame oil in pan or float a small bowl of oil in water.

When heated to body temperature, remove oil from water and rub warmed oil on chest and throat.

Cover with warm shirt and hop in bed.

Sleep without coughing.

Wake up rested and feeling so much better.

Last time I did this two-part couch remedy my cough was gone in 2 days.

I’ll keep you posted on the progress.

Please let me know if you made the recipe and what you think.

Please share your favorite recipes or cold/flu remedies!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by me! I am teaching my BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support & Assessment) classes to new teachers today and I’ve got to get myself ready.

Today’s music is R&B Transmogrification by Quasi. Have I ever mentioned how much I love Quasi? They were the musical obsession prior to the current. LOVE! Better than coffee any day!

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar. That’s THIS Friday! I heard rumors of a RESTORATIVE section – hello heavy use of props! I’m sharing the class with Amanda, so come on by.

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Thank you to all of you who came to my February Recess 5:45 classes. Such an honor to practice with you! Namaste.

Yoga+Music365 (day55) – Outer South by Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band – The Negatron Edition

Posted on February 24, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Let’s just say the grumpy teacher has been visiting my classroom this week.

Nobody likes when she is around.

In reflecting on my (ugh, I mean her) general state of prickly-ness, it dawned on me why the shift in attitude.

We just started our MONEY unit at school. Kids earn classroom money for doing work and behaving and pay fines for not. I’ve noticed I’m back to focusing on the behavior I don’t want to see and levying fines instead of looking for students that are earning their keep.

Must change focus – today.

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! It’s a staff meeting today. You know you’re jealous.

Today’s music is Outer South by Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

Yoga+Music365 (day54) – Mud Is My Ally by Harvester – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on February 23, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

I am a hot breakfast kind of gal. For me, a hot breakfast says comfort and love. It also says my stomach won’t be growling before first recess.

Today’s post is dedicated to quinoa (keen-wah) for breakfast. Click here for more information on this delicious grain.

Quinoa

1 cup quinoa

2 cups filtered water

Into rice cooker. Wait until it stops cooking.

Done.

Serve with warm milk, brown sugar, raisins, and sliced almonds. And don’t forget the Udo’s.

Or use the quinoa as a base for the Spiced Apples with ricotta cheese.

Please let me know if you made the recipe and what you think. Please share your favorite recipes!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine’s Gentle Yoga at It’s All Yoga.

Today’s music is Mud Is My Ally by Harvester. Yes, Jed’s Harvester. They rock.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

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Thank you to all of you who came to my February Recess 5:45 classes. Such an honor to practice with you! Namaste.

Yoga+Music365 (day53) – Gone by Dwight Yoakam – (Half) Marathon Training – The Unexpected Edition

Posted on February 22, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

When I signed up for the half marathon training I wasn’t sure what to expect other than consistent cardio excercise twice a week. The following are some of the lovely treats I’ve experienced during the training.

Nature early in the morning. We mostly walk on the levy and so we’re amongst the trees, shrubs and plants.
The BIRDS! Who knew seeing yellow-billed magpies would be so exciting? I think this all stems from my learning about these birds on our last class field trip to the Yolo Basin Wetlands. (In case you don’t live in the Central Valley in California, I’ve posted a picture below.)
The ease in conversation amongst strangers. Most folks signed up to walk with their friends. Me and a couple other women went solo and have found each other to be great company.
Saying walk out five miles and turn around sounds so much easier than walk 10 miles. I love the semantic game of the turn around and its ability to ease my mind.
I’ve been pleasantly surprized at my body’s recuperation. I’m really tired at the end of a long walk, but after a good home practice I feel fine. Even days later my body feels way better than I thought it would.
I’m really happy with my choice to walk, rather than push myself to run. Thirteen miles really is a long way, so however you get there is a big accomplishment.
Genuine hunger after training. It feels good to be thinking about how to fuel my body in training.

I’ve been struck by how much this training is a form of yoga for me. I’m paying attention to my surroundings, listening to subtle clues from my body, and not pushing myself beyond what I need at any given moment.

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! I’m teaching tonight, so I have to prep myself.

Today’s music is Gone by Dwight Yoakam.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

TONIGHT is the last class in this series!

Music Round Up! Week 7 – Comfort Food Edition!

Posted on February 21, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Sunday* I’ll share my thoughts on the music of the week. Please keep in mind I am not a music critic, just a girl with a musical obsession that needs to be tempered.

Yoga+Music365 is my effort to expand my musical horizons by listening to a new album every day in 2010.

I’m always looking for new music, so please send me the titles of albums that you absolutely can not live without, albums you wish were on everyone’s iPods and albums you play over and over despite no one else “getting it”.

The albums don’t have to be new releases, just new to me (or at least something I haven’t yet listened to in 2010**).

NOTE: I’m linking to Amazon now, so you can hear all the songs. Click on the band names to LISTEN for FREE!

MUSIC ROUND UP!

Day 43:

Title: Phases and Stages by Willie Nelson

Highlights:

Bloody Mary Morning!!!!!!!!!

Pretend I Never Happened

Sister’s Coming Home/Down At the Beer Joint

Will I listen again?

Without a doubt. This album goes well over breakfast. Waffles and Willie on Sunday morning.

In my new found enthusiasm for Leslie and the Badgers Roomful of Smoke, I left out this gem last week. This is the real day 42. Oh well.

Day 44:

Title: XO by Elliott Smith

Highlights:

sweet adeline

baby britian

waltz #2

bottle up and explode!

At what point, do I say the whole damn thing rocks every time I listen?

It makes me want to learn how to play guitar and take up singing in a coffee-house.

*sigh*

I miss Portland, the 90s and my youth.

Will I listen again?

Yes, I think I’m going to go listen to my old Quasi records now.

Day 45:

Title: Anodyne by Uncle Tupelo

Highlights:

Slate

Give Me Back the Key To My Heart

Chickamauga

New Madrid

We’ve Been Had

Will I listen again?

Love, love, love it.

New Madrid is one of my favorite songs of all time. In fact, it one of the only songs I’ve ever sung in public.

Day 46:

Title: My Bodyworks by Jane & Steven Schoenberg

Highlights:

It’s Your Muscles (click the title to hear the whole song!)

Bones

Teeth Are Neat

Everybody Passes Gas

Will I listen again?

Definitely. My students love singing along with this CD. Who doesn’t love a song that explains the digestive process?

I’m always on the look out for kid’s music that I can listen to over and over again. Especially music that has educational content, so if you know any others to recommend, pass them on.

Day 47:

Title: Three Feet High and Rising by De La Soul (click the link for video samples)

Highlights:

Jenifa Taught Me

Eye Know

Ghetto Thing

The Magic Number

Buddy

Me, Myself and I

Will I listen again?

Just so we’re all clear, I have to listen to this masterpiece on CASSETTE.

Where do I start?

Dear DeLaSoul,

I love this record.

I’ve loved this record since the first time I heard it in 1989 in the back of Keryn’s car on the way to the Palladium San Francisco.

The game show intro? Brilliant.

The sampling? Brilliant.

“We are not hippies.” – Brilliant.

If you haven’t heard this classic record in a while, I suggest you dig it out and take it for a spin. If you’ve never heard it, go BUY IT NOW.

Day 48:

Title: The Greatest by Cat Power

Highlights:

The Greatest

Living Proof

Could We

Love and Communication

Will I listen again?

Yes. This is one of the albums I play at work when students are working. They love it too.

Chan Marshall’s voice is pretty haunting.

Day 49:

Title: A.M. by Wilco

Highlights:

I Must Be High

Casino Queen

Box Full of Letters

Pick Up the Change

Passenger Side

Will I listen again?

Yes! This combined with Anodyne and Son Volt’s Trace really brought me fully into the Alt-Country genre in the mid-90s.

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Please leave a comment about what you think I should be listening to this year. Or what you’ve listened to from the list and what YOU think.

Or send me a CD – Yoga+Music365 c/o Tami Hackbarth PO BOX 188616 Sacramento, CA 95818.

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* Saturday keeps getting away from me, so Sunday is the new Music Round Up! day.

** All this new music is craziness and I miss listening to some of my favorite records. Hopefully you haven’t heard them yet and will add them to your collection as well.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online http://www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day51) – Closer to the Bone by Kris Kristofferson – Mrs. Pricklepants Edition

Posted on February 20, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

February seems like a good idea on paper. It’s got at least two school holidays, daylight is getting longer, and there are only three and a half more months of school.

And yet, I’ve been kind of grumpy all month. Go figure.

Instead of leaving a trail of complaints why February sucks, the following is a short list of things about February that don’t.

We started the Money unit at school and students LOVE earning money for their hard work. They are decidedly less enthusiastic about paying for not working, however motivation is at an all time high right now.
I love teaching yoga! Who knew that something that scared me so much so recently could turn out to be so fulfilling?
My amazing sweetheart surprised me with a very sweet valentine – a little certificate for lunch and a foot massage – by hiding it in the cat food bag while he was away and I actually found it on Valentine’s Day.
Acro-yoga was super fun, even when working with a complete stranger. We met during the middle of the class and managed to laugh all afternoon. She’s the one I’m helping into handstand in the photo.
One of my best friends is moving into a house with a SWIMMING POOL! Fishes like me, love them some swimming pools!
Three Feet High and Rising.
One of my other friends took me to her very fancy gym this week for a spa day. Steam, sauna, and soak – with towel service.
The movie Crazy Heart.
Massage!
Seeing Rhett Miller play and being in the front row.
Reading the Fluent Self and other excellent blogs make me happy.
Yoga
Possibility of summer road trips with friends for more yoga and general all around fun times.
Anticipating seeing my amazingly wonderful friends from junior high over Zachary’s Pizza and a cocktail or two.

What about YOUR February isn’t sucking? Remind me why this month doesn’t totally blow. (That’s your clue to leave me a comment, so I don’t feel like I’m talking to myself.)

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! It’s a half-marathon training day.

Today’s music is Closer to the Bone by Kris Kristofferson.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day49) – A.M. by Wilco – Fake Spring Edition

Posted on February 18, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

I love spring:

the buds on the trees,

the flowers blooming,

the freshly cut grass.

A-choo!

I hate my allergies.

A-choo!

*sigh*

[eyes watering...]

Can you hand me a tissue, please?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento.

Today’s music is A.M. by Wilco. Click on the album name for a link to the album. Click on the band name for a link to the band.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day48) – The Greatest by Cat Power – Handstand Heimlich Edition!

Posted on February 17, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Just a little something I learned at yoga teacher school.

Photo credit: Allie Hall

Yoga+Music365 (day47) – Three Feet High and Rising by De La Soul-Recipe Edition!

Posted on February 16, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Today’s recipe is for the basic smoothie. I know, everyone has their favorite already called Jamba Juice, but I’m here to advocate making your own at home. By making it at home, you can determine the quality of ingredients and figure out your own “boosts” to add.

I use the blender my parents got as a wedding present in 1965 to blend mine. It’s got a glass container and two speeds – slow and fast. Nothing fancy.

Instead of using ice, I use organic frozen fruit. I prefer berries, but peaches and pineapple sometimes make their way in too. During the summer when I’m are hiding from the neighbors because I just can’t eat any more of their homegrown fruit (just kidding!), I’ll toss an ice-cube or two in with it too.

My base consists of plain or vanilla organic yogurt, organic milk or rice milk.

To sweeten, I’ll use a bit of local honey.

My boost of choice? UDO’s Oil 3-6-9 Blend “a certified organic blend of guaranteed GMO-free, unrefined edible oils. This unique blend delivers a reliable source of the omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids that are essential to life, and includes the omega 9 fatty acids.”

Blend for 5 minutes. Pour into a travel mug and leave for work.

The addition of the oil helps make this smoothie a meal replacement. It keeps me full until lunch.

Please let me know if you made the recipe and what you think. Please share your favorite recipes!

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine’s Gentle Yoga at It’s All Yoga.

Today’s music is Three Feet High and Rising by De La Soul.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Music Round Up! Week 6

Posted on February 15, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Sunday* I’ll share my thoughts on the music of the week. Please keep in mind I am not a music critic, just a girl with a musical obsession that needs to be tempered.

Yoga+Music365 is my effort to expand my musical horizons by listening to a new album every day in 2010.

The albums don’t have to be new releases, just new to me (or at least something I haven’t yet listened to in 2010**).

NOTE: I’m linking to MySpace when it’s available because of the ease of listening to songs, not because of a love of MySpace.***Click on the band names to LISTEN for FREE!

MUSIC ROUNDUP!

Day 36:

Title: The Stand Ins by Okkervill River

Highlights:

Overall, I liked this one. However, nothing grabbed me and demanded a second listen.

Honestly, the best part of this one is my lovely friend Erin wanted to know why I chose this record (I already own it). Apparently I’ll be listening to all other records from Okkervill River because this band is Erin’s Old 97s.

Thank god someone else has a deep admiration for a band besides me.

Will I listen again?

Not to this one any time soon. I’ll be too busy checking out all their other records. Can’t wait!

Day 37:

Title: Hey Eugene by Pink Martini

Highlights:

Hey Eugene
Everywhere (Disney called and they are looking for this PERFECT song!)
Tempo Perdido

Basically all the other songs are cocktail sounds that make me feel very Continental.

I adore this record.

It makes me want to put on my best MadMen outfit and drink cocktails. It’s so not my type, and yet it totally rocks.

Will I listen again?

Yes!

Hey Eugene is like a brain worm. It gets in and plays itself over and over. In a good way.

It also sounds NOTHING like any other song on the album, so don’t judge the record by that song.

Day 38:

Title: The Ecstatic by Mos Def

Highlights:

I got nuthin. It’s just so needing more than a couple of listens. So out of my music realm at this point, it’s not instantly a must listen.

Will I listen again?

Maybe. I need to branch out, I’ve got it, so maybe.

Day 39:

Title: Merriweather Post Pavilion by Animal Collective

Highlights:

I don’t even remember listening to it. I do remember J-man telling me that I probably won’t like it.

Will I listen again?

Upon a second listen, I’m still thinking it’s not really my style. I wouldn’t turn it off if someone played it, but I doubt I’ll be the one playing it.

I’m starting to realize one of the shortcomings of this project. Listening once or twice for some recordings, just isn’t enough. Especially if a record is out of your comfort zone. Maybe next time I’ll do one a week and spend a whole week listening to one record so I can really give my thoughts after spending some more time to appreciate each one.

Day 40:

Title: Trace by Son Volt

Highlights:

Tear Stained Eye
Windfall
Drown
Loose String
Catching On
Mystifies Me

Will I listen again?

Yes, without a doubt. It’s a classic road trip sing along. This is one of the first “alt-country” records I loved and it continues to bring a smile to my face with every listen.

Day 41:

Title: The Con by Tegan and Sara

Highlights:

I Was Married
Relief Next to Me
Burn Your Life Down

Will I listen again?

It totally reminds me of the Juno Soundtrack and I have that too. It’s cute, sisterly sing songy, maybe if I put a couple songs into a mix. As an album? Probably not.

Day 42:

Title: Roomful of Smoke by Leslie and the Badgers

GO BUY THIS RECORD!

Highlights:

Los Angeles – folkie deliciousness
Roomful of Smoke – country music at its finest. Someone should write a movie to go with this song. Just sayin.
Old Times – by the chorus I was checking the liner notes to see who was behind all these classic songs. LATB wrote and perform their own music.
Winter Fugue – Leslie sounds very Dolly Parton-esque on this on. In such a good way. I LOVE THIS SONG!
My Tears Are Wasted On You – perfection.

Every song offers some sort of brilliance.Will I listen again?

I can’t stop listening.

Everyone should be listening to this one.

Seriously, buy it and then go see LATB when they come to your town.

Blame Rhett Miller. He’s the one that had them open the show last weekend at the Independent.

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Please leave a comment about what you think I should be listening to this year. Or what you’ve listened to from the list and what YOU think.

Or send me a CD – Yoga+Music365 c/o Tami Hackbarth PO BOX 188616 Sacramento, CA 95818.

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* Saturday keeps getting away from me, so Sunday is the new Music Round Up! day.

** All this new music is craziness and I miss listening to some of my favorite records. Hopefully you haven’t heard them yet and will add them to your collection as well.

*** If you click on the band name, you can listen to a few songs for FREE that the band has on their MySpace pages. That way you can actually take a listen and then go buy some new music.

+++++

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day42) – Phases and Stages by Willie Nelson – The In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 1

Posted on February 11, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

I’ve recently discovered the wonderful world of blogs. I am aware I am late to the party, however it’s better to be late than never arrive. Who knew the Internet was full of such wonderful, caring, compassionate people?

Occasionally, I’ll post my favorite posts from other people here -

The In Case You Missed It Edition!

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Today I Am A Harbor Seal at the Fluent Self. – Learning to become more relaxed during self-care.

The Seven Dwarves of Social Media at Marissa Barack, Can-Do-Ologist. – Who are you? I was number 8, Lurky, until I just couldn’t keep from commenting on some irresistible posts.

The Seeds of Anger at Gwen Bell, Big Love in a Small World. – Stepping up to help those in need while trying to tame your own demons.

Honesty: The Best Policy for Simplicity at Simplicity by Sunny. – Life-altering truth-telling.

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Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento.

Today’s music is Phases and Stages by Willie Nelson. Album link takes you to music and artist link to MySpace.

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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day41) – The Con by Tegan and Sara – Refinements Edition

Posted on February 10, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

This week I’ve thought a lot about this Yoga+Music365 project.

I’ve reached the 40 day milestone, people in real life have talked to me about it (which is such an amazing feeling) and I simply feel different from when I started.

I feel lighter, more clear-headed, more fun.

Maybe it’s the daily yoga.

The biggest indicator that things are shifting in my life came to me yesterday. At school we give HUGE assessments every six weeks and a week or two later get together to discuss the results. We’re looking at data to see how well our instruction is reaching each student and then make a plan how to refine said instruction before the next set of exams.

In the past, testing week was hell. I was very crabby and only worried about results. My stress and results driven ego would essentially ruin everyone’s week.

This time I decided to change my perspective. I would face the assessment results with a sense of curiosity.

Did this last round of instructional refinements make a difference in outcome? Can everyone survive testing week intact?

While testing week isn’t over yet, I am happy to report I have felt a definite lightness in myself. I’ve also seen that lightness translate into encouragement for students working hard and seeing them relax more.

The biggest growth I’ve seen in my students are from my two that struggle the most. I’ve been watching them take their tests this week. Instead of giving up and guessing, each of them is spending time trying to sound out each word and giving their all.

It’s been one big proud teacher moment all week with these two.

So has the refinement in instruction worked?

I would say so.

Has the daily yoga helped me be a better teacher?

Definitely.

+++++++

Today’s yoga brought to you by Kim at It’s All Yoga in Sacramento.

Today’s music is The Con by Tegan and Sara.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day40) – Trace by Son Volt – The Recipe Edition!

Posted on February 9, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Tuesday I’ll share an easy, nutritious recipe so you can join me in the home-cooked self-care.

Cardamom, I love you.

You smell like Fruit Loops.

You taste like perfume (in a good way).

You never fail to bring a smile to my face and make my taste buds sing.

Coconut-Cardamom Kheer

Serves 4-6

3 cups water

1 cup brown or white basmati rice

1/4 tsp salt

1 2 inch cinnamon stick

1/8 tsp whole black cardamom seeds (not whole pods)

3/4 cup coconut milk (yum)!

1/3 cup agave nectar

1/8 cup chopped almonds, plus more for garnish

2-3 dates, chopped

ground cinnamon, for garnish

1. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add rice, salt and cardamom seeds; bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 35 minutes, until rice is just tender and there is still a bit of water in the pan.

2. Add coconut milk and agave nectar. Simmer another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep coconut milk from scorching. Rice should be soft and tender. (For a creamier texture, let cool slightly and blend with a hand blender or food processor for several seconds).

3. Stir in chopped almonds and dates. Ladle into bowls and garnish with almonds and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Serve warm.

Recipe from Delicious Living, December 2008.

Please let me know if you made the recipe and what you think. Also tell me what you like and want to hear more about.

Today’s yoga brought to you by Madeleine at It’s All Yoga. She is a brilliant teacher+human and she came to my class last night which was at least 87 different flavors of awesome!

It’s also a half-marathon training day. In the rain. Dude, I’m so committed.

Today’s music is Trace by Son Volt. Just so we’re all clear, this is one of the BEST records EVER. Click here to hear.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day39) – Merriweather Post Pavilion by Animal Collective – Fueling vs. Food Edition!

Posted on February 8, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Recently our half-marathon training coach spoke to us about the importance of fueling our bodies during training so we could know the best way to keep our energy up during the race. She talked about how it’s important to not only stay hydrated with enough water, but that every 45 minutes we’d need to eat something in order to keep going during our longer training days and the actual race.

She brought out examples of all the kinds of racing fuel: gels, goos, beans, powders, bars.

With each example, I felt my anxiety level rise and I felt slightly sick to my stomach. It all looked so futuristic.

During my workout along the trail in Discovery Park, I thought about how I’m going to fuel my body during the race. I try not to eat a lot of processed foods and mysterious “food like substances” like Michael Pollan talks about in his book In Defense of Food – totally creep me out.

Read this book!

I asked Jessica – the coach- during the post workout stretch if we were ever going to talk about food. She laughed and gave me the rundown: 100 calories made up of complex carbohydrates and protein for every 45 minutes of activity. Some suggestions: peanut butter on whole wheat bread, string cheese and cracker, a granola bar.

Endurance race folks: What do you do to keep your energy up during a race? How do you fuel? I’m looking for other fueling ideas for training days, so please share.

Foodie friends: Any ideas to make functional training foods that taste great? Please share your ideas.

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! I’m teaching tonight at 5:45 at It’s All Yoga and I’ve got to prepare.

Today’s music is Merriweather Post Pavilion by Animal Collective.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Music Round Up! Week 5

Posted on February 7, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Each Sunday* I’ll share my thoughts on the music of the week. Please keep in mind I am not a music critic, just a girl with a musical obsession that needs to be tempered.

Yoga+Music365 is my effort to expand my musical horizons by listening to a new album every day in 2010.

The albums don’t have to be new releases, just new to me (or at least something I haven’t yet listened to in 2010**).

NOTE: I’m linking to MySpace when it’s available because of the ease of listening to songs, not because of a love of MySpace.***Click on the band names to LISTEN for FREE!

MUSIC ROUNDUP!

Day 29:

Title: For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver

Highlights:

Flume (LOVE IT!)
Skinny Love
Blindsided

Will I listen again?

I don’t know what I was expecting, but I thought this would sound different. It’s mostly quiet guitar-y sing song-y which I love. I’m definitely going to listen again.

Day 30:

Title: Brighter Than Creation by Drive By Truckers

Highlights:

Two Daughters and a Wife
Perfect Timing
Self Destructive Zones

Will I listen again?

Can you say Tom Petty- esque? Pretty straight ahead rock and roll. I’ll definitely be adding this to the play list.

Well, most of it. There are some serious duds on this 75 (!) minute album. There are plenty of songs for everyone.

Day 31:

Title: Golden Delicious by Mike Doughty

Highlights:

Um, it kinda sounded John Mayer-ish to me (please, someone make JM stop). I was surprised because I really liked Soul Coughing when my old roommate used to play them. I also loved them when they opened for Jeff Buckley at the Great American Music Hall back when I was a youngster living in the Bay Area.

Will I listen again?

Probably not this album. A couple of his other records were recently recommended to me and I’ll probably give them a listen.

Day 32:

Title: Blame It On Gravity by Old97s

Highlights:

No Baby I
I Will Remain
Here’s the Halcyon
The One

Will I listen again?

Yes, yes I will. I think the Old97s are a seriously under-recognized band. People that love them, really love them. However, most people have no idea about them or only know about them from the TV show Scrubs.

The songs are catchy, fun, and most of the lyrics are smart and damn near poetic. Their live shows are the most fun I’ve ever had and if you should ever see them playing in your town – GO!

Day 33:

Title: Sweetheart of the Rodeo by The Byrds

Highlights:

You Don’t Miss Your Water
You’re Still On My Mind
One Hundred Years From Now
Life In Prison

Will I listen again?

Without a doubt. For a brief period, I was banned from playing this at home. I guess someone thought I played it too much. What can I say? I really like Gram Parsons.

Day 34:

Title: Human Like a House by The Finches

Highlights:

Last Favor (one of my all-time favorite songs)
Human Like a House
Step Outside

Will I listen again?

Carolyn Pennypacker Riggs sings like an angel. And she looks like the nicest teacher you’ve ever had. My class loves this record. Whenever I play it for them, they always say “Oh the pretty lady singing!”

Day 35:

Title: Live A Little by Pernice Brothers

Highlights:

Somerville
Grudge F***
Automon

Will I listen again?

I already listened twice this week. Recently I read someone say something like, “Pernice’s voice is like sugar with lyrics of vinegar.” So true!

If you are on Twitter you can catch episodes of the Pernice Chronicles or “Pernice to Me” with Joyce at Ashmont Records. I laugh out loud almost daily.

Please leave a comment about what you think I should be listening to this year. Or what you’ve listened to from the list and what YOU think.

Or send me a CD – Yoga+Music365 c/o Tami Hackbarth PO BOX 188616 Sacramento, CA 95818.

* Saturday keeps getting away from me, so Sunday is the new Music Round Up! day.

** All this new music is craziness and I miss listening to some of my favorite records. Hopefully you haven’t heard them yet and will add them to your collection as well.

*** If you click on the band name, you can listen to a few songs for FREE that the band has on their MySpace pages. That way you can actually take a listen and then go buy some new music.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day38) – The Ecstatic by Mos Def – The World’s Longest “Pregnancy” Edition

Posted on February 6, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

When we started the adoption process back in September 2008, several people suggested we start a blog to capture the time while we were waiting to build our family.

In theory I thought it was a good idea and thought I would do it someday because, that’s what “good” adoptive parents do.

Right?

Good adoptive parents record every moment of waiting time so that they have a “pregnancy” story to share with their child when they ask about how they became a family.

Then I got all caught up in the notion of what “good” adoptive parents do and got overwhelmed in the judgement about what I am supposed to do.

I hate doing what I’m supposed to do.

So instead, I decided to just do some projects that interested me while we waited. So far, I’ve taken all classes possible to move across the salary schedule (who doesn’t love more money???), studied to become a yoga teacher and now I’m training for a half-marathon.

Oh and I started a daily writing project about two things I love: yoga and music.

I guess my future kid will at least know his/her mom was super busy while waiting.

Interesting to me now, that this blog about my becoming a yoga teacher is evolving into a kind of “pregnancy” story. It’s documenting the changes in me over time. I guess in my own way, I am documenting my transformation into a parent.

Adoption is obviously a longer wait than biological pregnancy. It’s also a much more personal “pregnancy” because there is no physical reminder of our impending parenthood. If people don’t know we’re adopting – they would never know we’re expectant parents. We don’t have month-to-month bump photos or ironic t-shirts.

We just have a big binder and a whole bunch of waiting.

I’m curious how other people documented their transformation into parents.

How did you document your pregnancy or waiting time?

How did you share that story with your child when they asked?

Biological or adoptive stories are welcome. Please share your stories here.

Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! It’s a half-marathon training day.

Today’s music is The Ecstatic by Mos Def.

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

Yoga+Music365 (day36) – The Stand Ins by Okkervil River – Massage Edition!

Posted on February 5, 2010 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Every Friday I take the day off from blogging.

But what about the yoga and the music? Not to worry friends, it’s still happening, I’m just not writing about it today.

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Let’s be honest, the real self-care comes from knowing your limits, boundaries and taking the time you need to renew.

What will I be doing instead of yoga, music and writing about yoga and music?

In honor of listening to my need for self-care, I’m having my twice monthly massage today. Yep, I get a 90 minute massage every other Friday from Tess Bradley at the Body Mind Center in Midtown Sacramento.

Make an appointment with her – she’s AMAZING! Tell her you read about her here!

Twice a month massage?!?!?

It must be nice. I’ve been hearing for years about this practice.

Why yes, it is.

I look at massage as a financial commitment to my health and well-being. Massage, like yoga, helps me be a nicer person. It feels good and it helps keep me healthy. It also helps me be a better teacher, wife and friend. I started having massage regularly so I could deal with the grief of my stepdad dying and felt all the benefits of regular body work.

++++++

This is what I said the last time I told you about taking time off on Fridays. Not much has changed… I’m having a massage, wishing I could also go to the 4:30 class at It’s All Yoga to support my classmates and to luxuriate in their sweetness.

During my brief recess today I think I’ll concentrate on planning my next class and spending some quality time with the J-man and going bed early so I can be ready for my seven (7!!!!) mile training walk tomorrow morning.

What practices do you regularly do to take care of yourself? Please leave a comment and if your self-care thing interests me, maybe I’ll start doing your thing too.

PS- Think of Fridays as blog-reading catch-up day. If you’ve been a little behind on all the good stuff, here’s my gift to you.

PPS- Sunday is Music Round Up!

Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.

I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.

For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.

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