holidays

I come from a big family - my parents are both one of eight and I have a zillion cousins (60+) Picture the Irish Catholic/Italian version of the my big fat greek wedding family and you're close to an image of our typical holiday. But, this Thanksgiving marks a first. As we recently moved and aren't a bus trip away from my family anymore my husband and I decided to tackle Thanksgiving on our own. Essentially this means me. He has a lot of good qualities and talents but cooking isn't among them ;) I'm feeling totally liberated and excited at the prospect of being 100% in control of my Thanksgiving feast for the first time in my life. My husband isn't a vegetarian by any means but he'll literally eat anything I put in front of him (alas one of those good qualities I referred to above.) Essentially I have full reign to go crazy with the vegetarian and meatless sides that I consider the best part of the holiday. As a non meat-eater I like the idea of a centerpiece dish - like a tofurky for example - but to be honest I don't go ga ga over faux meats. I find them very hit or miss. And, why does the bird or "bird" get all the attention. anyway? Load me up with side dishes and I'm a happy girl! That said click through for a run down of some of the vegetarian Thanksgiving side recipes that will be making an appearance at our Thanksgiving this year.

Just in time for the 4th of July holiday I have some tasty cocktails in store. Who doesn't love a fresh summer cocktail while firing up the grill and watching the fireworks? I tested these babies out last weekend and trust me they were tasty! My mission was to keep the ingredients fresh and organic, and use local ingredients where possible. Click through for the recipes!

I'd be hardpressed to think of a time when grilling is more appropriate than the week surrounding the Fourth of July. Something about bbqing feels ultra American and festive. So, get your grill on but don't forget these eco-friendly tips. (Read on after the jump!)

This Sunday, we thank the man who taught us to throw a softball, tend to a garden and appreciate the great outdoors. Father's Day typically conjures up images of barbecues, meat slurries & beer. So how can you greenly pay homage to your Dad? (Find out some ideas, after the jump!)

Memorial Day weekend calls for shaking off stress, enjoying friends and family, and perhaps a delicious cocktail (or two.) This recipe for a refreshing, seasonal blueberry mojito will start your long weekend off on the right foot. Bonus: it's fairly low calorie, and simple to make! Click through for the recipe.

As you know from my locavore kick, you can reduce your carbon footprint and get fresher, tastier foods when sourcing locally. This Mother's Day, try planning an all-locally sourced meal!  Whether free-range omelets or seasonal fruit pancakes, you're sure to put a smile on Mom's face. Find delicious meat-free options like these Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins or veggie brunch ideas. Check out other ways to green your mother's day!

Feliz Cinco De Mayo! As Dictator of a Mexican Eating Club (or "Mexadelphia" as a few close amigos call it), I'm taking tomorrow's fiesta with pride.  How can you celebrate my 2nd favorite holiday the eco-friendly way? Here's a few sustainable celebration & vegetarian comida options:

In case you weren't paying attention to the pastel colored retail onslaught as of late - heads up - Easter's this weekend! For those that celebrate this can be a fun, relaxed holiday filled with candy and family. I already feel a sugar rush coming on... In the midst of the festivities how can you keep up your green habits? Here's some tips:

While we've previously given you advice to green your valentine's day, here's another tradition to consider: flowers. Our advice? Ditch the roses. Valentine's Day roses are not only pricey, but often come with hefty carbon footprints after being flown from far distances, having  been plucked from pesticide-filled fields.  There's nothing  that says "I love you"  more than chemicals filling one's nostrils on a romantic holiday, right? Instead, (find out more, after the jump!)