Turning to each other

As I heard from friends and family in the days following the election, I realized that we were all talking about the trees, the sunset, the moon --- instinctively
turning to the Earth for strength and solace. I came to realize once again the importance of our project along with grassroots efforts everywhere. As the climate change deniers come to power, it is really up to us as individuals to do everything we can for the Earth, in our kitchens, our neighborhoods, and our circles of friends --- heartened by the knowledge that now, thanks to technology, those circles encompass the planet. I am so grateful for all of you!

I have two recipes to feature this time. The first is Hilary's special gluten-free pizza from our October potluck:
Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Pizza

Our second recipe comes from Lorna in Liverpool who sent us her Vegan Nice Cream, made with frozen bananas and nut butter. She says," I make it often because it is such an easy and healthy dessert that everyone seems to love. It is a great way to use up those extra bananas that might be about to go to waste." Ummm--- sounds good to me!
Vegan Nice Cream

Mindi in Manzanita sent cheering news of our teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh, who is now participating (nonverbally) in the Winter Retreat at Plum Village:
http://plumvillage.org/news/winter-retreat-opening-ceremony-with-thay/
Thanks, Mindi. It's so good to sense his calm presence, especially in these times.

Betsy in California responded to my question about potlucks:
Gunter and I hosted a monthly vegetarian potluck on our farm for several years which was marvelous. Our group went from anywhere between 6-30 and when we had the largest crowds it was usually in the summer so people could walk around or play volleyball or pick some organic apples from the orchard. Wonderful times back then.
betsy

Betsy also sent a link some time ago that I've been meaning to pass on to you -- not exactly about food, but about a leather substitute made from mushrooms -- which I guess is about food in a sense after all. I sometimes find forgotten mushrooms in the back of the fridge that have gone leathery. Someone has seen the possibilities there!
http://www.ecostalk.com/muskin-vegan-leather-made-from-mushrooms/

Donna here in Portland sent a couple of links --- a video from Ocean Robbins:
Wow! This is a very short but powerful video on plant-based diet and illness. And it’s about reversing disease. I think you will love this one!! Very short!! donna
https://foodrevolution.org/blog/food-and-health/healthy-food-aging/?utm_...

and an interview with Pres. Obama that gets into food policy:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXH5agV7skw&feature=youtu.be

Thanks Hilary, Lorna, Mindi, Betsy, Donna and everyone --- I'm wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving Day, and --

Happy cooking,
Eve