April 04, 2011

Almond Butter

A few days after I wrote my post on Japan, the Tohoku region of the country suffered massive destruction from the earthquake and tsunami. It was heartbreaking to see parts of the country so close to my heart, a place I called home for a year, completely in ruins. For days I couldn't turn myself away from the news and even though I was lucky enough that all my friends in Japan are okay, I know people who have friends and family affected by this tragedy.

On Friday night, I was more than happy to attend and participate in the Japan Benefit Party. It didn't matter that I had to be up at the crack of dawn the next day and only got four hours of sleep - it was my way of giving back to Japan, as well as thanking Japan for welcoming me with open arms and teaching me so many wonderful things about its culture.



Ganbare Japan.




Now back to your regularly scheduled program.



I am in love with my food processor. I'll let you in on a little secret: I purchased the food processor as a gift to myself, a self-congratulation for finally finding employment. That's right, while most people my age would go to the mall to buy a pair of shoes, a purse or an item of clothing, I bought myself a kitchen appliance.

It remains one of my favourite purchases in the past year. My 15+ year old blender just wasn't doing the job I needed it to do (I was sick of constantly having to scrap down the sides) and my shiny new toy is capable of producing fresh almond and flax seed meal. Also: homemade nut butter!