So, do we want recipes, do we want info? How a about journal entry first. I haven’t posted much personal for a while.

The weather has warmed. Also windy here on the West Coast! Don’t forget to protect your neck when it’s windy!  Here are a few quick things I learned and practiced today.  Let’s start with the learned part…

I’ve learned…

…this April sun is strong and plants are soaking up their water quickly. I must remember to water mine properly.

…I shouldn’t say “later” to most things. “There is no time like the present.”

…Eating lots of vegetables does not warrant eating lots of dip.

Okay, that’s enough learning. What have I practiced?

hmmm…Okay!

Today I practiced…

…Driving the speed limit. I’ve increased my gas mileage while reducing my carbon footprint. Stress level decreasing.

…in my scope of practice! I helped three patients!

…making creative soups. See below.

Today’s kitchen creation…Asparagus Soup with Ginger. (broth, asparagus (cooked and pureed), lemon, ginger, carrots, celery leaves, salt, pepper, oh and heirloom tomatoes!) Not bad for just using what I had on hand. My fridge is looking a little empty though.  I served it with some guacamoli from scratch and a cucumber salad. Lots of green. Nothing wrong with that.

Have fun when making soup. Just throw stuff in! All you really need is some liquid, veggies and a few herbs and spices and you’ve got yourself nutritional wellness!

Let’s learn a little about asparagus…

Asparagus are almost at the peak of their season in California! States further East can expect to see them as late as July.  They are a major source folate, which assists in cardiovascular health, as well a natural diuretic.  According to WHFoods, woman suffering from premenstrual bloating could benefit from adding asparagus to their meal.  Don’t worry about the strange odor when you pee. That’s just the result of a natural chemical breakdown. What may be a concern is for those who have kidney problems, as asparagus contains purines. Excessive amounts of purines can lead to an excess of uric acid in the blood. Excessive uric acid in the blood can lead to gout, kidney stones and kidney failure. We don’t want this.  If you are unsure about your blood levels, you can always request a blood-work panel from your primary care provider. The best advice I can give, always pay attention to how you feel.

Buy fresh, buy local! Yeah we get it, but what if we’re too busy to find and peruse our local farmer’s market. “Tell me what to look for in my local super market for heaven’s sake.” Check out this short list from Foodnetwork.com of perfect produce choices for spring. Yes, it’s true my thawing East coast friends. Spring is on the move!

Artichokes – a food favorite for this Italian girl. Don’t be deterred by its rugged exterior. Inside is a heart of deliciousness.

Asparagus – low in calories and high in folate, (important for cell growth and repair), asparagus can make any meal tasty and nutritious. Try it in your next omelet, salad or as a side dish.

Blueberries – yum! This berry isn’t as likely to burden your blood sugar with an unwanted spike. With a lower glycemic index than other berries. Blueberries are a good choice to acommpany your morning oats or as a snack.

Carrots – What can I say about carrots? One of the three amigos in most of my soups.

Peas – look for bright green, plump pods.  Perfect for stir fries.

Rhubarb – known as the “pie plant,” these brightly colored stems are often mixed with fruits to make pies and jams. Simmer stalks for 45 minutes over medium-heat to make rhubardsauce. A tart-sweet sauce similar to sweet and sour.

Strawberries – Can’t leave out this spring-time favorite. Try mixing strawberries with rhubarb to make a yummy pie.

And don’t forget your when in doubt organic list.