I made Almond Milk

Well, I can honestly say I never thought I'd make almond milk. Everything changed when I read this post about a sleeping potion late last night.

I followed links from that post to this post which has a basic recipe for almond milk.

I was inspired. I happened to have almonds (which is actually quite amazing). So I immersed a cup of almonds in water and left them to soak overnight.

I slept in, so they soaked for a very, very long time.

Early this afternoon, I drained and rinsed the almonds, added them to 4 cups of cold water (adding a dash of salt and a teaspoon of vanilla extract) and blended them up until it was as smooth as I could get it.

I lined my sifter with muslin (doubled over), and put it over a bowl. I poured the mixture into the strainer, and delighted as completely smooth almond milk filled the bowl, leaving all the pulp in the strainer. 

Then I took pictures and wrote this post.

Does anyone else make their almond milk? I didn't realise how easy it was!

ETA: I forgot to say what I thought of it! Oops!

My husband says it reminds him a lot of soy milk. It's strange because it's the mouth-feel is of water, but it looks like milk and it tastes like almonds. I'm wondering about other methods of making it and if they will make a creamier product.

I think I could learn to really love it.

This and That and The Other

It's a bit strange not to 'have' to post everyday.

There are a few things I wanted to talk about: This and That and The Other.

This:

I've loved having so many comments! Do you ever go back and check posts you've commented on, to see if you've had a reply? I do. Obsessively. Some of you have written comments on my posts that I just had to reply to - feel free to see how VEHEMENTLY I disagree with you all! haha

That:

I find that I tend to judge movies differently to other people. In a nutshell, this is how I sum up whether or not I like them: "did I enjoy it?" 

Deep, I know ;)

Movies are something I watch when I relax. Because of this, I make a conscious to 'turn off' the critical side of my brain. I do enough thinking already with uni work! Also, I am the sort of person who actively looks for what I like about things, rather than what I don't like. It's become a bit of a habit, and now I don't realise how much I do it.

The Other:

NaNoWriMo.

I've done it once. I didn't reach 50K. More like 25K.

It's hard work.

It's exhausting.

It's full on.

I'm planning on doing it again this year, but trying to reach 50K this time!

Why?

Because it's creative.

It's challenging.

It's fun. 

It's rewarding.

If you're considering taking part, I really encourage you to give it a go.

Flash Fiction: Humility

The last flash fiction piece! I feel sad - I really enjoyed dusting off the 'creative writing' section of my brain (not used since NaNoWriMo last year) and put it to some use.

Before sharing the very last story (sob!), I want to thank Lady Antimony for hosting this challenge. It has been fun, educational, and it's also been great to make a few new friends in the blogosphere.

Now that this is over, a return back to normal (ha!) blogging is in order (and I just realised that Blogtoberfest is coming up!), but for those who enjoy the creative writing, fear not! I'm planning on participating in NaNoWriMo again this year and no doubt I'll be sharing a little of what I write. 


Okay! The story.


But first, let me say that the story stems from this:

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, 

it is thinking of yourself less.

Here's a really long definition of humility:

Modest behavior, selflessness, and the giving of respect. Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less. It is a spirit of self-examination; a hermeneutic of suspicion toward yourself and charity toward people you disagree with. The courage of the heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult, tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved. Reverence for those who have wisdom and those who selflessly teach in love. Giving credit where credit is due; not unfairly glorifying one's own self. Being faithful to promises, no matter how big or small they may be. Refraining from despair and the ability to confront fear and uncertainty, or intimidation. (Vice: pride.)

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Humility

I have a friend who continuously apologises. It doesn’t matter what it is: spill your drink, stomp on her foot, shoot your husband (you get the idea), and she’s all, “I’m so sorry” and “That was entirely my fault."

People, when they meet her, think she’s so lovely, so polite, so humble. That first impression doesn’t last long. I see their eyebrows rise when she apologises that their baby didn’t sleep through the night again.  I see unsaid words forming on their lips: “Don’t be ridiculous, as if it’s your fault.” 

Sometimes I just want to kick her sorry arse.

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Thank you to all the people who have spent time commenting on what I've written - I truly appreciate it! (And I will catch up on commenting on all your blogs soon!)

For your final chance to check out some other great, confonting, interesting and diverse flash fiction, follow this link!

Flash Fiction: Kindness

I'm a little bit late with this bit of flash fiction - some days are just busy, you know? Also, I really enjoyed Captain America: The First Avenger. (Edit - I know others didn't really like it, and while it's not a "must watch" it is a good way to pass 2 hours - it must also be remembered that it is made as a prequel to The Avengers, in which Captain America, Thor and Iron Man will be combined.)

It was also good to see Hugo Weaving in a role I could actually believe him in. (His role as Agent Smith in The Matrix meant I could never take him seriously as an elf in Lord of the Rings.)

Here is the full definition of kindness:

Charity, compassion and friendship for its own sake. Empathy and trust without prejudice or resentment. Unselfish love and voluntary kindness without bias or spite. Having positive outlooks and cheerful demeanor; to inspire kindness in others. (Vice: envy.)

I should assure you that I have done my best to avoid writing something that strongly resembles the movie I just watched.

After my "patience" flash fiction yesterday, which I was so pleased with, I feel like this is no where near as good, but my poor brain can't think of anything else.

I hope you like it, and can see what part of the definition I'm trying to address.

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Kindness

“I don’t understand how you make friends so easily. You’re amazing.” I gazed at my husband with mixed pride and envy.

“It’s not that hard to say ‘hi’ to people. Perhaps you could try it sometime?” My husband took every opportunity to tease me.

“I don’t have the confidence.” I looked down, hiding my eyes. “How do you know it’ll even be worth it? I mean, why do you want to be friends with nearly everyone you meet?”

“I love finding out about people.” He paused, thinking. “There’s no harm in being friendly, and it makes people happy, I guess.”

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To read what others have written, click right here.

Flash Fiction: Patience

And now for something completely different...

It's the Spanish Inquisition!

Well, no, not really. (Sorry.)

But today, I've decided to write some "flash autobiography" to give a snapshot of what comes to mind when I think about patience - I think it addresses the first part of the definition the most (sometimes knitting takes a lot of sheer determination!), but also touches on the last part too about "peaceful stability and community".

Here is the full definition:

Forbearance and endurance through moderation. Resolving conflicts and injustice peacefully, as opposed to resorting to violence. Accepting the grace to forgive; to show mercy to sinners. Not killing or being violent in any way to any life form or sentient being; to practice moderation of meat consumption and consistent life ethic. Creating a sense of peaceful stability and community, rather than engendering suffering, hostility and antagonism. (Vice: wrath.)

Here it is - I hope you like it!

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Patience

My baby blanket, lacy and hand knit. An heirloom made by Grandma for me. 

I did not always understand how knitted gifts are made of more than yarn, soft and warm and springy.

Now, as I knit, I know her gift was one of time, of effort and perhaps also of tears. A gift of love.

As I make stitch after tiny stitch, I envision a time when my children – and, God grant, my grandchildren – will be warmed by the work of my hands.

Now, I wonder, will they also come to understand – to love – this patient form of art?

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As always, to see what others have done, simply click your heart out right here.

Flash Fiction: Diligence

This short story stems from two things: 

1 - a little while ago I was paid to do some cleaning, and found myself in the position of having to vacuum a stranger's room while they were still in bed. Talk about humbling.

2 - the idea that it’s who you are when no one is looking that truly shows your character – especially your virtues (or lack thereof). 

A delightful definition of diligence:

A zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work; decisive work ethic, steadfastness in belief, fortitude, and the capability of not giving up. Budgeting one's time; monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness. Upholding one's convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching (integrity). (Vice: sloth.)

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Diligence 

“That’ll do,” said Penny, giving the figurine a final flick with her duster.

Esther, thankful the figurine survived Penny’s carelessness, continued polishing a crystal vase.

“What they don’t know won’t hurt them, Esther.”

Esther continued working, taking her time with each valuable item. For her employers, cost no longer meant worth. They barely glanced at the treasures surrounding them. That didn’t mean she should rush her job. 

“They may not know, but I will.”

“Don’t give me that crap. Just leave it.”

Esther looked at Penny, “Is it really that wrong to work hard even when no one is looking?”

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Who are you more like? Penny or Esther?

To peruse some other short fictions, simply click here!

Flash Fiction: Charity

I have just realised that so far all the flash fictions look at virtue through the eyes of a less virtuous character. This one follows the same pattern (almost), but all the rest I've written (all but kindness, which is still unwritten) are a bit different - especially patience.

I've been thinking about charity over the past week or so. I feel that sometimes it’s far easier to be proud of others who are charitable than it is to be charitable ourselves. People often think that money and “things” are the only way (or at least the main way) to show charity towards others. I would argue that time is just as – if not more – charitable. There is also a false charity, one that’s based on appearance and not a heart attitude of generosity and caring. 

I'll get off my soap box now!

Here's a long definition of charity:

Generosity, charity, self-sacrifice; the term should not be confused with the more restricted modern use of the word charity to mean benevolent giving. In Christian theology, charity -- or love (agäpé) -- is the greatest of the three theological virtues. Love, in the sense of an unlimited loving kindness towards all others, is held to be the ultimate perfection of the human spirit, because it is said to both glorify and reflect the nature of God. Such love is self-sacrificial. The love that is "caritas" (charity) is distinguished by its origin – being divinely infused into the soul – and by its residing in the will rather than emotions, regardless of what emotions it stirs up. This love is necessary for salvation, and with it no one can be lost. (Vice: greed.)

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Charity

My best friend wanted to help in the church crèche. I decided to join her so I didn’t have to sit through the sermon. After an hour of wiping noses and bottoms I’d had enough. My knees and back were sore from giving countless horsey rides and I felt tired and grouchy. 

“This is the worst hour of my life.”

My bestie looked up from blowing raspberries on a toddler’s tummy. “Why’s that?”

“It’s so demeaning to look after people. Anyone who decides to spend all their time caring for others just wants attention.”

“Does your comment include Mother Teresa?” 

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PS. I would far rather listen to the sermon than help in creche - babies cry too much!!!

To read what others have written, follow this link!
 

Flash Fiction: Temperance

After all the great comments yesterday I'm afraid my head is beginning to swell. I'm going to have to start making beanies in a larger size so they fit me! Also, Georgia (the name used in yesterday's story) is the name of the font I'm writing in right now. It's one of my favourite fonts.

Today's flash fiction is about the virtue 'temperance', which also has an incredible definition:

Restraint, temperance, justice. Constant mindfulness of others and one's surroundings; practicing self-control, abstention, moderation, zero-sum and deferred gratification. Prudence to judge between actions with regard to appropriate actions at a given time. Proper moderation between self-interest, versus public-interest, and against the rights and needs of others. (Vice: gluttony.)

I haven't pre-written a story for today, so I'll just start writing and see what comes out (followed by a quick edit, of course).

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Temperance  

The king's mother stood at the side of her son's throne, a regal smile on her lips. Her eyes, however, revealed her rage. 

Her fool son had no idea how to rule. He gave understanding and kindness when it was clear that punishment and humiliation were needed. That is how her husband had ruled, and the treasuries had tripled in a mere four years.

Her stomach churned as she witnessed her son pardon the debt of a frail peasant. Does he not realise this commoner is dishonest and greedy? When will he learn to revere the crown as he ought?

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So tell me, what do you think?

Garbage or gold?

If you want to read what others have written, follow this link!