Vegan Bear

More Snaps of Scotland

2012-02-11T12:35:00.001Z

More Pictures of Scotland

2012-02-11T12:15:00.001Z

On our way to Dundee we saw the end of the rainbow, it was in Scotland after all.

The Fourth Railway Bridge

Near the Fourth Railway Bridge

Below the Fourth Railway Bridge. It's so big...

Lochgelly

2011-12-28T11:01:00.000Z

Lochgelly, Fife, Scotland

So after a wait of just over two weeks I'm now up and running with an internet connection...

The Cottage is coming together after a few teething issues, they had some big storms up here the week before I arrived and we had lost some of the slates off the roof. Also in clearing our patio we had discovered the outside drain was blocked and causing a few issues with internal drains too. But its warm and dry and it feels like home now.

Having said all that we have another storm hitting today and the wind is picking up today and they are saying on the news that the bridges will be closed.

So what is Lochgelly like then? Well we have a high street that has like in the south seen better days, up here everyone seems to have a car and out of town shopping parks have sprung up everywhere. Put that together with a supermarket superstore every half a mile and I'm surprised there are any shops around at all.

We have a co-op supermarket and chemist, butchers, bakers, card shop, builders suppliers, we even have one or two cafe's and corner-shops. How any of this is managing to stay open with the economic downturn of the country I don't know.

I would call Lochgelly a village and according to Wikipedia it is... It's a mix of both traditional Scottish stone built cottages as well as modern new build family houses. I live in what would have been a two room cottage that has be extended up into the loft and out back into the garden making it a three bedroom cottage.

Now most of you will want to know about food? Well I'm going to keep that till another day as there is lots to talk about around that.

I hope you all had a good Christmas however you spent it.

Bear x

Countdown to Scotland

2011-12-12T10:30:00.001Z

So the countdown is now on... By this time tomorrow I will be sitting on a coach heading to Edinburgh, bags stored in the belly of the beast...

I've got a really crazy week coming up, firstly I have to sign my tenancy agreement on the new house on Wednesday and then the rest of the week will be shopping and getting the cottage to look like a home for Christmas.

Drew has been great and so to has his mum who has given us all of the white goods we will need for the kitchen. This may not sound like much but it will save a fair few pennies.

Drew has picked his room leaving me with the two upstairs rooms, one is to be my bedroom and the other is to be a guest/study/drying room for washing.

I said a bedroom is for sleeping but I'm really excited about buying a bed and making it my space. BT hasn't been so good in getting there act together so I'll not have internet till the 28th December so I'm not sure if I'll get to update this till then. None of the iPhone apps are much cop when it comes to writing blog posts.

I'm off now to say goodbye to some friends, I'm not going to get to see many of them before I go as I've had this cold and have spent most of the last week in bed sick, isn't it always the way when you have a little time off you get sick...

If I don't get to say it before Christmas, I hope you all get what you want and get to spend it with those you love. Keep them close and tell them what they mean to you.

Bear x

Monster in my Closet

2011-12-06T21:04:00.001Z

So I'm getting the monster out of my closet... what is he going on about now I hear you ask? For the last two years I have been suffering from Depression. It's not something I have really talked about to many people.

The events leading up to the beginning of my depression is not really important but as I've never met anyone who has openly talked about there depression I thought that I would use my blog to do that...

I didn't notice the depression to start off with, I was just feeling a little down. I stopped enjoying doing all the things I use to do, I stopped going out and taking photographs, I stopped blogging as much as I first did.

Then I noticed I didn't really want to meet up with my friends or even going out on my days off, I stopped calling friends and my relationship started to suffer.

The trigger events were not getting any easier and I reached the stage that I would start to cry about anything and everything. I knew at this point that I was ill and I needed to get help. But I'm a grown man and could I really sit there in front of my doctor and say I'm a bit sad and I'm crying all the time?

I think I was lucky with my doctor or it could have been that from the moment I sat down in the doctors consultation room I started crying and didn't stop for some thirty minuets. I answered some questions, and I'll tell you now that I lied to some of them. I wasn't going to say yes I've had dark thoughts and thought that the world would be a better place without me there.

By the end of the time in the consultation room I walked out with a prescription to anti-depresents and an appointment to come back the following week. I was told that the tablets could make me feel worst but I don't think I was ready for how I was to feel for the next month or so. I think because I was told I would be in a very dark place it kind of helped me through it a little.

I became so scared that if I told my doctor I was getting these thoughts I could be locked up or even worst taken off the medication.

I had some amazing support from one or two of my very close friends, a lot of them don't even know what has been going on. This isn't because I don't trust them but because I've never been around people who talk about depression I didn't really know how people would react.

I had days where I felt like I was in a bubble, I stopped opening my post (this had a huge effect on my fin aces and in the end my relationship) I couldn't answer my phone unless I knew who it was calling. I couldn't listen to my answer machine. I know some of you are thinking why? thats strange! but I'm just telling you how it was/is.

Soon the tablets started to work, I say work, they stopped me crying and hiding under the sheets. They didn't stop me not wanting to be social or open my post but they let me get out of bed and do my job. Looking back now I can see that I go through periods of being very manic and have lots of energy, and at other times I'm very low and didn't want to leave the house.

So I'm two years on and I'm no longer on the tablets, I had a new doctor and she wasn't as supportive about my depression. She said she was going to take me off my meds. Being me I thought, I'm not having anyone tell me I'm coming off of something so I just stopped taking them. **If I have to give one bit of advice it's do not come off of anti-depressants without the support of your doctor** I was lucky that I had support from friends but it was really hard and the dark thoughts where on my back day and night.

I've done some big things in the last month or so, I've sold my flat, I quite my job, and I'm moving to Scotland all things that to some may seem a bit crazy, but trust me I know what crazy looks like from the inside. I'm doing this to help me get better, I feel like I can cope if I'm in control of my life. I need fresh air and goals, I can't have pressure or stress in my life and my new life will free me of that.

I'm so thankful for my friends, old and new and one thing I have learned is that I have to be honest to both myself and those around me.

You shouldn't feel embarrassed about depression some of the most amazing people in our world have had it or live each day with it. If you feel that you may be depressed then seek help before it overwhelms you and your life, it's easier to deal with it when you have the help of others. Your not crazy or mad your just not having the best of times and you can get through this. Don't be afraid of taking medication, it helps you see what is going on without the weight on your back.

The NHS has a web based question section on there website and that can be found HERE.

I hope by my honesty it will enable you to talk to someone if you need too. I still have depression and I'm not sure if it will ever go away, but for the first time in two years I'm on top of it and I can see my life improving every day.

Keep well,

Bear x

Just a thought...

2011-11-20T22:04:00.001Z

2011-11-16T20:16:00.001Z

Well I have some news for you all. I've had an amazing time working with Ms Cupcake and the Cupcake Crew over the last year. I have worked on market stall been part of some amazing events and met some people I will always consider to be friends.

I have found myself in a once in a lifetime situation where I can do something that I've talked about for years. This situation dear reader is to leave old London town and head north to Scotland and write a vegan cookbook/s.

I also hope to have a nice enough kitchen that I can start to teach basic vegan transitioning to people who may not have the cookery skills or knowledge to convert recipes. I'm still toying with this idea and it's not set in stone yet, but as always I intend blogging about everything that goes on from now on...

I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone at Ms Cupcakes the best in the coming years, there is so much exciting things on the horizon that it is only going to go from strength to strength and I look forward to watching it all happen.

If your around in London I will be posting a night of leaving drinks in the Dog Star in Brixton before I go. I'll let you know by Twitter...

Bear X

Moving Home...

2011-11-12T14:52:00.001Z

So I'm two days away from moving out of my apartment. I just thought I would check in and say its almost all done, all I have to do is a big once over tomorrow once I've moved my thing to the place where I'm staying.

Then it's all go for Monday and the completion...

Catch up with you soon.

My last post in Islington

2011-11-09T15:23:00.001Z

So I've been in this apartment for over seventeen years now, I'd like to say they have been happy years but I can't wait to see the back of this place and everything that goes with it.

Thanks to Islington council I've had untold stress, for four years I had water coming through the ceiling into my bedroom. All but a handful of my belongings were trashed and I never really got over it.

Then there was my five years working for Waterstone's a company without a spine when it comes to work place bulling. I spent to years being harassed by a member of staff with the company not backing me for a moment. And all the time I was unable to speak out due to the companies no blogging policy. Waterstone's was one of the first companies in the UK to dismiss a member of staff for blogging. http://tinyurl.com/yj52rph

Now we are in the second recession of my life time and this one is way tougher than the last, yes unemployment may not be as high but due to the large amount of credit we were given by banks when they crashed and card/loan rates went up most of us struggled to cope.

For this and one or two other reasons I decided to sell my apartment and start a new, dept free and stress free. I know for some of you it will seem a step to far but I want to start living my life and enjoying what I have left.

I have already made a resolution, who said I had to be January the first to do that? I've always wanted to write a cookbook and while I think I'm good enough to get published having worked in the industry I know how hard it is to get your book out there. Now I have a few goals, I want to help people who want to become vegan or have allergies, I want to make it affordable to buy, I want it to make cooking exciting and fun, but most of all I want to share my passion for home cooking with everyone. We have yet to have a big name in British vegan cooking and I don't see why it can't be me...

The way forward it would seem is to self publish and the only way to do this on a budget is to publish through Amazon and iBooks in a ebook format. This would keep my costs down so I could offer them at a much lower price than in print books. And if need be a copy could be printed off or e-mailed to someone who doesn't have a reader.

So big plans afoot and still a lot going on, my head feels like its going to burst at the moment so if I was you I would keep an eye on this blog in the next few weeks.

Thanks as always for spending time reading this page. I will post some more in the next week.

Bear X

2011-11-08T18:57:00.001Z

World Vegan Day 2011

2011-11-01T10:52:00.001Z

Please Support World Vegan Day 2011

As Above, So Below - featuring Sarah-Jane Honeywell

Population, Blogging, and Citizen Journalism

2011-10-31T17:34:00.002Z

What will you remember 2011 for? I don't think you'll remember it for the year the world population topped 7 Billion people on the planet. Yep thats right 7 billion mouths to feed so thats 0.001972km of arable land for every human, I should point out that includes all land for animal grazing too. Not much then?

Will may remember it for the Arab spring, Steve Jobs death, Siri (the first mobile device that talks to you) but I bet we will all remember the world dept, Greek dept will be the main focus but really we are all up to our necks in it. I myself would have sold my home of 17 years to clear mine and to be dept free.

Something we may not remember but has now changed the world for ever is Citizen Journalism.

If you have a mobile device you can post footage almost as it happens and with in minuets of it taking place it can be broadcast all around the globe.

Many of the networks that have been blamed for spreading misinformation is suddenly aiding in a revolution. Without the likes of Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Blackberry Messenger some of these uprisings wouldn't of happened.

Some of this does have a down side as we saw in the UK as Blackberry Messenger used to organising rioting in London and other cities around England. One thing that was blamed was the cost of living and personal dept, but please ask yourself this why did it not spread to Scotland or Wales? Both these areas have some of the highest personal dept and unemployment anywhere in the country?

But one of the things that was amazing about the riots was the people power that backlashed against the rioters. people handed over phone footage to police of rioters committing criminal acts, but not only that people posted pictures of themselves with stolen goods to there Facebook pages.

What ever we have seen over the last 10 months it is only the very beginning of citizen journalism around the world.

Bear x

My new iPad 2

2011-10-30T09:14:00.001Z

So yesterday I decided to bight the bullet and buy an iPad 2. I was planning to do it once the sale of the flat goes through in a few weeks but I thought what the hell I'll just grab one now.

Reasons to buy an iPad 2?
1) Lots of my books are now on iTunes and to access them on my phone is a real pain and as for trying to follow a recipe from and iPhone is almost impossible.
2) Once I move it will be great to be able to sit down and read without straining my eyes.
3) I intend to do a bit of travelling once I sell so it will be great to have guides and books to read while on a train of in a bus.

Now the big question, wifi or wifi & 3G?
Well I went for wifi, why I hear you say? Well apart from the price difference I have an iPhone that is less obvious when walking down the street.

Does size matter?
Well if you've got an iPhone then you may find that it does. With an iPhone you want to have as much space as you want to use it for apps and for keeping everything on the move.

Why not go for a big memory iPad 2?
Well it would seem from what I'm using it for that I want something that I can use to read things on and maybe use at home to do the odd thing when I don't want to get the laptop out.

Looking at books and book apps on the iPad 2 most of the books are stored in the cloud including amazon's kindle app, so no need to carry around loads of books on my pad using up loads of memory.

You can download the books any time you have a wifi network.

What would be your reason for using an iPad 2?
Reading magazines? Books? Websites? Would you use it for work? Home? The family?
When would you use it? In the day at the office? On your way to work? When you get home? In bed?

I'm sure you have lots of thoughts when looking at an iPad 2 but try and play around with a friends one so you get more of an idea about what it's like to use. Having a touch and play at the apple store is not really what it's like to use (though I've only had it less than 24 hours) I can tell you now that I've already noticed that I'm using it very differently to how I thought I would.

Let me know what you would use an iPad 2 for? And if you have a pad are you using it for something other than you thought you would?

Bear x

Photo's from my Scottish holiday.

2011-10-23T20:28:00.003Z

Angel in a gravy yard in St Andrews

Down the coast from St Andrews

St Andrews

Along the coast from St Andrews

The city grave yard in Glasgow

The Forth bridge and the view of Fife

Drew on top of the museum in Scotland overlooking

Edinburgh Castle

Time for soup...

2011-10-23T20:28:00.001Z

Short of time? Short on money? Feeling the cold? Your body telling you you need to eat better?

Well I have the most simple answer for you and it's not out of a tin!

The answer is a four letter word dear reader and it's SOUP. In summer it's a dish that can be served cold and as the nights draw in its a dish that can be served nice and hot.

Now a seasonal meat free soup can be one of the most cost effective meals anyone can knock up with 30 minuets or under.

All good soups start with a good base, mine always have one or two onions slowly cooked with some good rapeseed oil. Then a big fat clove of garlic crushed and added to the translucent onion.

Now I'd like to say I always make my own stock, but let's be honest I have so little free time every moment I spend in the kitchen I want to be making and baking. So dear reader I've turned to gel stock cubes. They are hands down one of the best things on the market.

And now for the star of the show, be it peas, celeriac, corn or many many more. Pick what's in season and you will find it at its best flavour but at its cheapest.

I tend not to spend more than a pound on any of the ingredients and get at least 2 or 3 servings out of one pot.

A few more secrets to making good soup:

Always season hot or cold soups even if you use stock cubes.

Don't over cook your vegetables, they taste better and sweeter if they are just cooked.

It's good to mix and match, celeriac and Cauliflower make a great soup.

I use a soup as a good way to up my B12 by adding some nutritional yeast to it. This can also add a nice depth to any soup.

I tend not to toast bread to go with the soup but cut it and pop it in the oven at 200 for around 9 minuets.

Soup freezes really well so make some extra and you have a quick meal when your in a rush.

And one of the most important things, buy a good thermos so you can take some to work, to a game or in the summer on a picnic.

Soups are for sharing and you'll get a great feeling from introducing friends to the joys of soup...

So if I haven't got you thinking about soup now I have let you down. If your already planning a big pot feel free to invite me around to try some, I'll bring the bread.

Bear X

21st Century Bread

2011-10-17T13:14:00.003Z

If like me you dream of a fresh loaf of bread with your soup but can't be asked moving yourself from the kitchen, well I may have found the recipe for you.

I mean lets face it you've just spent time making a wholesome soup from fresh market vegetables you should be eating a home made bread with it. Now don't get me wrong making your own bread that takes hours to do is an amazing thing, but lets look at this with honesty and not our bakers eyes, you don't have the time.

So this recipe takes about 5/10 minuets to prep and 35/45 minuets to bake, about the same time as it will take to make your own soup.

Now the photo at the top of this article is no Hovis loaf but a) its the first time I've made it at home and b) I was in a rush... What I was hungry.

So how easy can this recipe really be? You'll see...

Ingredients:

425g self raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt (I always use kosher or smoked sea salt)
100g vegan cheese (not the super melting type)
20g nutritional yeast (always good to add some B12 when you can)
2 tbsp chopped chives or lemon thyme
1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
200ml water

Method:

1. Heat oven 200c ready to bake your loaf
2. Prep a tray with grease proof paper and get ready a cooling rack
3. put all the dry ingredients into your mixing bowl, including the herbs and cheese, mix together
4. add water and combine into a dough
5. round off the loaf and place on the tray, slash the top of the loaf with a cross
6. bake in the oven for 35/45 minuets until the loaf has a hollow sound when you tap on the bottom.
7. place on wire cooling rack for about 10 minuets to firm up and make it easier to cut and your ready to eat you soup and cheese bread

If I could only give you smelly blog or taste in a blog you would be wanting to marry me at this moment.

Well I'm off to eat lunch, catch up soon.

Bear x

A Night on the Sea Shepherd

2011-09-15T07:51:00.001Z

This week Ms Cupcake and I got the privilege of going to a once in a life time even here in London. The conservation ship The Steve Irwin one of the Sea Shepherds anti whaling ship docked in London and was berthed along side the former war ship HMS. Belfast.

The event was a VIP fund raising night with lots of celebrities including conservationists and music gods.

We took along some Ms Cupcake cakes to help the evening go along with a extra special pow.

During the evening we were entertained by lots of live music including Hawkwind and Adam Ant. Also on deck was a group of artists who over the course of the evening they painted some giant canvases that people could buy in a silent auction.

This was one of the unique paintings half way through the evening.

I tend not to be political when it comes to everyday life but one thing I'm passionate about is supporting sea preservation.

I was blown away by how humble the amazing crew of the Sea Shepherd were. The Captain gave a speech telling us how many sea animals had been saved over the seven years of there campaign.

He went on to tell us that they had sunk seven whaling ships and damaged twelve more.

I should say at this point no human has been hurt or killed in the seven years of the campaign.

This year they are heading south to a whale sanctuary where Japan is ignoring the international sanctuary protocols.

It is so important that we protect our seas and those who live in them, not only for us but for our planet and the other living things on it.

If you can find it in yourself to support Sea Shepherd please do. You can start by buying a badge, giving out leaflets, finding a way to hold a charity event in your town or city.

To find out more about Sea Shepherd and help with the campaign to raise awareness of the plight of our seas and oceans. www.seashepherd.org and if you want to see what they do check out Whale Wars in iTunes.

Bear x

Test Post

2011-09-10T08:57:00.001Z

So yesterday Google released an iPhone application for Blogger. I should say it's a long time coming, but I'm very pleased with it so far.

I've always wanted to blog more often and this app does mean I don't have to have my laptop with me to do so.

The only problem I can see is that it doesn't let you play around with the layout, so it looks like all the pictures have to go at the top of the feed.

Another issue that may get some people is that you can't turn the keyboard so you are left typing on the small keyboard in portrait mode.

I'm not sure yet but I think that this app could make blogging a lot easier because it's just like sending a text. Well done Google/Blogger it will be interesting to see where you go with this.

Bear x

2011-09-06T14:04:00.000Z

If like me you don't have time to walk around two or three shops to find my vegan dinner. That is until I was pointed in the direction of Goodness Direct a internet delivery company that is the first of it's kind in the UK to deliver almost everything a vegan would need to live there life animal free.

You don't believe me why not head over to their website and have a look for yourself GoodnessDirect.co.uk Your cold food and frozen food turn up in biodegradable environmentally friendly packing that keeps things frozen and fresh.

Keep checking the website for offers and money off as when I first used it I got £10 off my shop as well as free delivery.

You will also find them on Facebook and Twitter.

Vegan Bear

2011-09-05T21:55:00.003Z

One of the hardest things I've ever done...

Baz and I separated over nine months ago now and I have to for personal reasons put my flat up for sale. This will leave me having to crash on floors and maybe move into a bedsit.

This is not good for two of the most amazing companions I've ever had. Let me introduce you to them and see if you could maybe give one or both of them a home.

This is Punk He is 15 years old and has been with me from the age of six weeks. He has always been there for me and has never not been excited to see me.

He likes to sleep a lot but also has a kitten deep in side himself. He is great and can be left over night, if you put food down for him he will only eat when he needs to.

If he had his way he would lay across your shoulders and be carried everywhere, he would also love to cone to bed with you. I should say though he is an early to bed early to rise lad who wants to be stroked all the time.

If you want someone to chat to and give loving hugs to he is your man.

He has never been sick in his life and has also never been outside more than once, and he really didn't like it. He would be a great cat to live with others who are not dominant, he likes the easy life and will not give you any problems.

This is Noah, She is 5 years old now and is still a kitten. Though she is new to our family she is top cat around the house.

Noah is very different to Punk she would be best suited to being the only cat in the house if she's not able to stay with Punk. She doesn't like change and does get a little stressed now and again. She's not going to like moving but she will not play up. She has pulled the fur out from her leg the last time we had big changes in the house.

She has never been sick and is also a house cat. I do think she would be able to go outside but she is another cat who will sleep most of the day. Unlike Punk she is better with a set time pattern you couldn't leave her with food down as she will just eat it all up. I think when she is the only cat this wouldn't be an issue. She came from a house with a lot of other siblings as well as dogs and I think it was all a bit to much for her.

She doesn't like being picked up but will come to you whenever you sit down to take up room on the sofa next to you, and once she gets to know you you'll have a hard time to get her off your lap but come supper time she will be by her bowl.

So the important stuff;

If you could give them a home together or individually please e-mail me as soon as you can. I don't have a car but would have to find a way to get them to you. The sale of the house could go through at any time so the sooner you could have them the better for them.

It's going to be very hard for me to say goodbye so if you could send me updates and photo's it would be very nice.

Please e-mail me if you think you could help me out. If you can't do it and know someone who you think would like these guys in there lives then please pass on my e-mail.

veganbear@me.com

I live in north London so people who live in London would be best.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Jayson

2011-09-05T20:48:00.000Z

Brighton or Bust

No not really but it got your attention? It's a time for change I think. As the sun light is getting weaker and the air is a little colder than the week before I feel that change is all around us. If it wasn't for the council sending men around two weeks ago to cut the tree back outside our apartment I would even go to saying that the tree has put on its fall colours.

One of the first things I should say is I've been looking at how I could improve my blog, this has meant I have been reading lots of books and other peoples blogs to get an idea of how my blog should look and what should be in it.

I'm about to take my first trip into Scotland to see my close friend Drew (pictured above) Baz and I have now been separated for about nine months and it's time to move on. Having said that we still share a house so we get on well and everything was done how one would wish a relationship would end, no shouting but a few tears.

It wasn't important for us to tell everyone what was going on as we both feel it was very much something we wanted to deal with together.

Other new is that it has also become time to sell up and move on, this apartment has been in my life for far to many years and I feel that it's time to leave it. It's an amazing estate and I have one or two friends that I will miss but I'm sure it will not be goodbye.

So where too? I'm not really sure I've been toying with closer to work but I will miss north London. You'll have to watch this space to find out more.

And now for the important part... the blog.

I work a lot of hours and do like spending my free time chatting to Drew but as he and I have talked about it's not always helpful to have no other interests other than chatting to friends. So what am I going to write about?

I think I need to bring back more food and recipes, reviews of vegan food products. I will start looking at some of the companies behind the products and how they got where they are.

I also think I need to talk a bit about working in a vegan company, for most of you it's only a dream, for me it is a dream come true. I would like to pass on a few wise tips about starting your own market business (I hope to do this with the help of a few friends).

I hope also to have some guest bloggers and maybe even open the blog to submissions. If you have something you would like to say please e-mail me at veganbear@me.com

Well that rounds it up for tonight I'm sure there will be a lot more to share with you in the coming weeks and months.

Bear x

2011-08-13T07:29:00.000Z

Life is One Big Riot

So if you've not had your head in the clouds for the last week you may have noticed if not first hand then maybe on one of the extended news reports, there have been a fe riots not only in London but also around England too.

It started a week ago today with some shocking violence in north London and soon spread to what is normally thought of as safe areas of London, then within a few days the whole of England.

Why? No one can say for sure, the people doing it have said because 'it's a way of getting our taxes back' 'we can't afford to go to uni, so we have no hope in getting a job' 'the kids have nothing to do now'. All you would think may be good reasons to riot but for a few problems.

Not only have people been rioting but looting (mainly sports clothing stores and mobile phone shops) but they have also been setting fire to buildings and cars. People have been made homeless but people businesses that have been around for hundreds of years have now been burnt to the ground.

This will not be a week any of us forget, but with any luck it may be over.

This has been nothing more than mindless violence and distraction of this great city.

I hope you sleep safe after watching the news this week as it could all happen to a town or city near you.

Bear x

2011-07-26T14:16:00.000Z

Why?

It's always a good place to start.

When I started this blog I had started a journey, a journey that I hadn't got a road map for. The first few steps were hard and it took all my concentration to keep to the path. Blogger helped me keep my eye on where I was going.

Now when I started there were a few good blogs that I always read and aspired to be like. I tried to keep everything interesting and topical. You have watched me change jobs, grow my own lunch and you have followed me through one or two heart breaks.

I'm at a stage now where I'm trying to decide where my path will take me next. You would think this an easy task but let me share this with you, it's a long way from being written in stone.

I have a great job and life is a little bumpy from time to time, but over all I have come out of this last year a lot older and maybe a little more humble.

so back on track. I have a feeling that the next year will be one of big change for me. Firstly I will be selling up and moving into rented accommodation, this could be an experience of highs and lows. I also plan to travel over the next year, Scotland is high on my list and I would love to feed back on what Vegan life north of the wall.

I know these blogs will be patchy and not always very long but I hope you will like them.

Always humble that you read this.

Vegan Bear x

2011-05-09T10:31:00.001Z

Sometimes you come across a website that should be top of everyones list of places to visit. 'Messy Vegetarian Cook' is an amazing resource for both new b's as well as hard core vegans alike.

I for one found the article on making your own Tofu a show stopper myself. Better still there is even an app, and it's free... You can find out more information here.

And I have been told that one is on the way for Android...

Well this is a short post but I really want to go and make some Sesame Homemade Udon Noodles for lunch.

2011-03-16T10:53:00.000Z

Ms. Cupcake

This Blog entry was posted on 'To Happy Vegans' blog last week.

About a year and a half ago I wandered into a room filled with cupcakes – I had heard about this monthly gathering of people sharing cupcake love, so I thought I would give it a whirl. Sure there were stacks and stacks of traditional cakes piled with butter-cream but my goodness was I surprised to find ANOTHER plate of vegan cupcakes! Beyond excited I found out they belonged to Mitsu and Sasha, who are indeed two of the happiest vegans of them all. Meeting the two of them and their passion for all vegan baked goods had a huge impact on my life – more than they know…

I had been baking vegan for quite a while and after a few appearances on Britain’s Best Dish (ITV) with my vegan cupcakes I decided I would try and make a go at it as a business – Ms. Cupcake. When I met Sasha and Mitsu the ideas were all bubbling in my mind, but I had this underlying fear that there wasn’t a need in the market for vegan baking. How wrong I was! Through the encouragement of the To Happy Vegans and other amazing people I’ve met along my journey my little home business has grown very rapidly!

From market stalls to wholesale to now opening London’s first entirely vegan retail bakery with a staff of 4 amazing people – it’s been quite a whirlwind! So what have I found?

There IS a need/want for vegan baking!
A lot of the people who like our cakes didn’t think that they would like ‘vegan’ things.
Bake with love and those who eat it will be able to tell

So what will this new bakery be like?

Well, first and foremost it is a place for everyone – Vegan, not vegan (who I like to call ‘those who are potentially vegan’). We will produce our cupcakes of course but we will also be filling our shelves with other yummy baked goods (savoury and sweet) made onsite.

There will also be non-food items on show as we will be supporting local craft makers by having a variety of their handmade goods available for sale too!

We’ll be running lots of classes in the evenings as well. Cake decorating, vegan baking and lots of vegan ‘lifestyle’ talks. These will be run not just by Ms. Cupcake and her Cupcake Crew but also by lots of other fabulous vegan companies and organisations.

Exciting? I hope so! I know that we’re excited about it. Just think… if I hadn’t been encouraged by some amazing vegans along the way – we wouldn’t be here. So here’s a big kiss and a hug to all the happy vegans out there!

Ms. Cupcake X

Ms. Cupcake opens on April 1^st 2011 at 408 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London SW9 8LF.

We will be open Wednesdays-Sundays from 11-6pm.

2011-03-16T10:44:00.001Z

'I ♥ Brixton'

This is my first blog entry from the new 'Cupcake Central'.

We have come so far in the last few months, with our new home here in Brixton, South London. When we first looked at the shop who would have thought that this ugly caterpillar would turn into this amazing butterfly. We are a bit of a way from finishing but you can see it all starting to take shape.

I'm sitting here with little more than a chair and a table, but not for long as soon deliveries will start to arrive. Ms C and myself went on a little road trip yesterday to look for interesting things to go into the shop, and let me tell you dear friends Ms C has an eye for amazing things. (photo's will follow)

This week at Cupcake HQ we are getting ready to welcome another new staff member into our fold as we get ready for VegFest Brighton. We are going to be baking like made and it has been said Ms C is going to be making some Vegan Lemon Curd to take with her.

I will be staying in London to look after Brixton and make sure we have enough Cupcakes for our stalls on Sunday at Brick Lane and our pop-up shop in Brixton (outside our new shop @408 Coldharbour Lane)

So what is it like to be in Brixton I hear you ask? Well there are some fantastic places and things to do. Firstly, us Ms Cupcake 408 Coldharbour Lane. Then next to us you have Rosie's Cafe & Deli (you can get Soya milk and Vegan Sandwiches there) then around the corner you will find Franco Manca Pizzeria (pizza number one is Vegan)

Then once you have had your fill of food you could do a little some shopping in the two indoor markets or in the amazing street market, where not only can you get the most amazing foods but they are so cheap you'll never go back to a supermarket again. As you can tell 'I ♥ Brixton' and all that it has to offer.

I will keep you updated on all that is going on here as well as introduce you to some of the things going on around here from time to time.

Till then I will say goodbye till next time.

Bear X

2011-01-18T17:53:00.000Z

So it's been an interesting week, I've more downs than ups in my personal life and I thought that could have reflected in my weight. As they say what goes down can also go up...

But I am pleased to say that all is not lost... well it is... 5 1/2 lbs this week taking my total to 11 lbs so far.

It's the little things in life that can make you happy.

I will be happy with any weight loss I get from now on. As long as it goes down I will be happy.

Bear x

2011-01-11T19:18:00.001Z

So it's now been a week on the new Weight Watchers ProPoints Diet and I weighed in for the first time. So how much did I lose? 5 1/2 lbs or five and a half tins of baked beans.

Bake beans I hear you say?

When I first did Weight Watchers I use to go to the Supermarket and put one tin of beans in a basket for every pound I had lost. When this got to much I photocopied a picture of a tin and made a stack of beans like you would see in a Supermarket on my bedroom wall.

So some thoughts on the first week?

- I felt like I was eating for England so amount of food hasn't been an issue.
- I need to plan more for days when I am at the market as most of the food on sale in the food court are going to be high in points and are not very filling.
- I need to have different fruit other than Bananas.
- I will spend some time pointing recipes I have in my cook books, until then I will hold off buying more cook books.

Would I recommend Weight Watchers on-line to others?

- If you know a bit about the diet and don't have time to go to a meeting then it's a great way to eat and lose weight.
- You should if you can attend a meeting as you will never get a better chance to learn from others.
- If you find someone to do it with then on-line is a great tool. If you have an iPhone it would be even better.
- If your going to do it make sure you track your ProPoints and everything you eat.

Good luck and I will let you know how week 2 goes.

Bear x

2011-01-04T13:52:00.000Z

So about 10 years ago I said to myself I didn't want to be fat and 40, well that didn't happen and I'm now 40 and very fat. 18 stone 11 lbs. As some of you know I use to work for Weight Watchers many years ago when I got down to 11 stone 11 lbs.

Some things have changed over the last few years, to start with I'm as you know now 6 years Vegan. I'm working as a Vegan baker and I'm about to move from the house I have lived in for the last 16 years.

So why Weight Watchers? One of my friends is very pro the program and I think I have to give it another chance. The good thing is that Points have changed to ProPoints and that means I can't guess what points are in things.

I will blog about how I'm going but this time around I want to list the points of Vegan foods I come across as I go along so I can help others out who are Vegan and want to try Weight Watchers for themselves.

Bear x

2010-12-26T11:19:00.000Z

There is a new blog on the street and it's well worth reading, FatGayVegan may have only been going for a month now but if all the posts so far are anything to go by it's going to be great.

As with this blog FatGayVegan looks at all things Vegan from food and drink to lifestyle and music. I love the drinks articles as I myself drink very little it's good to find someone who not only drinks but has a passion for good Vegan booze.

You can also follow the day to day life of FatGayVegan on Twitter.

Bear x

2010-12-25T15:17:00.000Z

Basbosa

Ingredients:

1 cup semolina
1 cup sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup coconut powder
1 cup powdered soya milk
250ml plain soya yoghurt
2tbsp egg replacer
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup of sugar syrup (Sheera - way of preparation below)
1 orange
5 cardamon pods

Optional: almonds for decoration

Preparation:

1. Heat the oven to 180 degrees centigrade
2. Mix all the ingredients together in an electric mixer (apart from the almonds and sugar syrup).
3. Grease your baking dish with oil
4. Pour your mixture in the baking dish, add almonds to the top if desired.
5. Place baking dish in the oven for 30 minutes (till golden).
6. To check if fully done, stick a toothpick into the Basbosa and make sure it comes out clean.
7. Pour cold sugar syrup onto the warm Basbosa and leave to cool slightly then serve.

How to prepare the Sugar Syrup/Sheera:

1. Mix 1 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of water and heat till the sugar melts.
2. Zest an orange and then squeeze half of the orange into the mixture and add saffron and about 5 cardamon pods.
3. Leave to cool.
4. Remove all of the zest and cardamon pods before feeding it to the Basbosa.

2010-09-13T20:39:00.000Z

www.mscupcake.co.uk

Happy International Cupcake Week.

And what better way to push the boat out but to hand your notice in at a job you've just had enough of. Don't get me wrong I love selling books, but it just isn't all that I have to do. I never turn away from hard work but I have found myself working without any appreciation. I'm not asking for a pat on the back every time I do something but just a little bit of credit for all the work we do every day to make money and keep customers happy.

Moan over I start my new job on the 21st October and can't wait. I will let you all know once I start what I'm up to... until then it's all hush, hush.

Bear x

2010-09-07T14:28:00.000Z

So I have now done my City & Guilds Certificate Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering. The course only took an afternoon to do and although was interesting it was very targeted to dealing with Meat (aka Hight Risk Foods). I would have liked to have done more about lower risk foods and non Meat products. Maybe one day they may come up with a new course.

So it's onwards and upwards with my backing. I have at this moment a batch of double chocolate brownies in the oven. These are just treats for Baz to take to work if they come out ok.

Next up is a batch of Coconut Blondies for anyone who would like them. These are one of my tried and tested Blondies so I'm just knocking these out later.

Bear

2010-08-28T12:47:00.000Z

The Future Gallery, London, will be playing host to the world's first entirely edible art exhibition from 27th August until 29th August.

The exhibition, aptly named Cake Britain, is sponsored by Tate & Lyle Sugars and is based on Mad Artists Tea Party's interpretation of the meaning of “fair”. Cake Britain will feature food art from David A Smith, Jellymongers – Bompas & Parrm Crumbs & Dollies and Lily Vanilli.

All of the exhibits will be for sale with proceeds going to Richard House, We Make Peace and the Fairtrade Foundation. Entry will be free in exchange for a fair donation to the charities.

To visit the exhibition, go to The Future Gallery, 5 Great Newport Street, London WC2H 7JB from 27th August.

2010-08-28T12:31:00.001Z

I'm now on Twitter so if you can't get enough of me here then why not follow me there.

2010-08-25T11:16:00.000Z

I came across this shop in Tunbridge Wells while out at a meeting for work. I picked up one of there home delivery flyers and the food looks really good. They had lots of Veggi food but nothing was listed as Vegan.

So I dropped them a line and this is the reply:

Hi Vegan Bear

Thanks for the email. As requested, please find a list of our vegan products printed below. These details were taken from the last kitchen production, however as recipes are always being changed and improved please do check the ingredients printed on the label to make sure this information is correct.

Main Dishes
Red Lentil & Mixed Bean Casserole (1 portion)
Red Lentil & Mixed Bean Casserole (2 portion)
Indonesian Vegetable Curry (1 portion)
Indonesian Vegetable Curry (2 portion)
Roasted Vegetable & Chickpea Curry (1 portion)
Roasted Vegetable & Chickpea Curry (2 portion)

Side DishesMinted Couscous (1 portion)
Minted Couscous (2 portion)
Mange Tout, Petit Pois and Carrots(2 portion)
Peas Pilau (1 portion)
Peas Pilau (2 portion)
Plain Basmati Rice (1 portion)
Plain Basmati Rice (2 portion)
Coconut & Lime Leaf Rice (1 portion)
Coconut & Lime Leaf Rice (2 portion)
Rice with Oven Roasted Vegetables (1 portion)
Rice with Oven Roasted Vegetables (2 portion)

Entertaining FoodFruity Couscous Salad (6-8 buffet portions)

Kind regards

Bethany

www.cookfood.net

2010-08-24T10:49:00.001Z

One of the best Vegan Forums out there. Why not give it a try?

Bear

2010-08-23T10:37:00.000Z

Ms Cupcake and myself will be at the Viva Vegan Roadshow on September 18th from 10:30am till 4:00pm (or till we sell out).

Why not come down and say hello?

Bear

2010-08-22T20:41:00.001Z

Baked Rocky Road Brownies

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose Flour
1 ½ cups Vegetable Oil
2 cups Sugar
1 cup Cocoa
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
2 tbs Egg substitute
2 tsp Vanilla
2 tbs Water
1 ½ cups chopped Walnuts
1 ½ cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
1 ½ cups Vegan Marshmallows

Method:

Preheat oven to 170c degrees.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, salt, egg substitute.
In a jug mix the Vanilla and water together.
Add the oil and the vanilla mix to the dry ingredients, and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for two minutes.
Stir in the nuts, chocolate chips and marshmallows.
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out with fudge crumbs. Be careful not to over bake.
Remove from the oven and let brownies cool on a wire rack.
Cut your Rocky Road Brownies into desired size and shape.

2010-08-20T17:24:00.000Z

Sometimes it's better to leave the comment to the author so let me hand over this posting to Melisser Elliott...

The Vegan Girl's Guide to Life by Melisser Elliott is a book that is not only for vegan girls, but anyone who's interested in a cruelty free lifestyle, with recipes and tips for DIY living.

The book will contain the basic who-what-where-when-why of veganism, but also include tips like what to feed non-vegans, the best vegan beauty products, fun vacation spots, plus an assortment of recipes & crafty projects including Jackfruit "Carnitas" Tacos, Twice Baked Chipotle Sweet Potatoes, Cracked Coriander Seed and Chai Tea-Rubbed Vegan Steak Lo Mein, Double Chocolate Cookies, Purple Cow Cupcakes, DIY Dessert Stands, a Cross Stitch pattern by Stitch'd Ink, and how to make your own produce bags.

Bear comment: I think it's always great to see a new Vegan Lifestyle book and this one looks like it will not only be a fun pick up and read once kinda book. I can see new and old timers dipping into this one. Put down your Mrs Beaton and your Kath Kidston and pick up a new Vegan book to beat all others.

Bear

2010-08-16T13:14:00.003Z

Vegan Blondies Recipe

Ingredients:

3/4-cup Soy Milk
1 tbs Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4-cup + 2 tbs Rape Seed Oil
1-cup 2 tbs White Sugar
1 tbs Vanilla Extract
2 tbs Agave Nectar
1 1/4-cups Flour
3/4 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Salt
3/4-cup Choc Chips or Chunks of Chocolate

Method:

Preheat oven to 350 and line an 8x9 brownie pan with parchment paper and set aside

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking soda and salt.

Add the apple cider vinegar to the soy milk and stand to one side

In a large bowl combine milk mixture, oil, vanilla and agave nectar. Mix with a wire wisk. Add the sugar and wisk until well combined (about 30 seconds).

In batches, fold the dry ingredients into the wet, slowly, wisking as you go along. Fold in chocolate chips.

Pour batter into the brownie pan, spread with a spoon or spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes until top is firm and brown.

Let cool completely before serving.

Bear

2010-08-15T15:21:00.000Z

Banoffee Pie

So I have a secret... I'm a secret Banoffee Pie Monster, well I was till I became Vegan almost six years ago.

I just couldn't find a way of making Condensed Milk. You see it has a taste that is so unique that I just couldn't work out how to do it.

On Wednesday this past week I can across an amazing website called veganbaking.net and came across a recipe by Mattie, who in my view is a god.

Last night I made 3/4 of a pint of the sticky stuff, it did take some time and I'm sure next time I would use a larger pan so it had a bigger area to boil the liquid off from (this may cut down time).

One thing I would say is if your going to make it keep in mind all that is good will come to those who wait.

Bear. x

2010-08-14T16:22:00.000Z

Vegan Oreo "Cheesecake"

For the Crust:

Ingredients:

1 ½-cup Digestives crumbs or Bourbons
1/3-cup Vegan margarine, melted (Pure is a good brand)

In a small bowl, mix together the crumbs and melted margarine. Gently press this mixture into the bottom of a Springform pan.

For the "Cheesecake"

Ingredients:

1 tbs plus 1 1/2 tsp powdered Vegan Egg-replacer
6 tbs Water
3 packages/tubs Vegan Cream Cheese
1 tbs plus 1 1/2 tsp Vegan powdered Egg-replacer
3 tbs Water
1-cup White Sugar (to keep the Cheesecake as white as you can)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
16 ounces Vegan Sour Cream
12 Vegan Oreo’s (Trio’s) broken into chunks

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, mix until frothy the first bit of Egg-replacer and Water, set aside. In a food processor, by hand, or with electric mixer, combine the "Cream Cheese", the first bit of Egg-replacer and water (that you mixed in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup), 3/4-cup sugar, and Vanilla extract. Mix it all up until smooth and no sugar granules can be seen.

In your now empty container you used to mix the powdered egg-replacer and water, mix the second batch of egg-replacer and water (1 Tbs plus 1 1/2 tsp powder with 6 Tbs water) until frothy, and then slowly add to the Sour Cream then bring both Cream Cheese-Sugar-Vanilla mixture, mixing while you add. Stir through your Oreo chunks at the last moment.

Pour this lovely, creamy creation into your prepared pan. Place the Cheesecake into the middle of the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until center is almost set. If the center jiggles a bit that’s fine, as it will set-up while it's cooling. If you over cook the Cheesecake it will crack.

Once cooled and just before serving grate some Vegan dark Chocolate over the top and serve.

Bear x

2010-08-05T11:38:00.000Z

Here are some books I would recommend. The recipes need to be Veganised in the first two but they are all really nice books and will add to any book shelf.

2010-07-30T16:03:00.002Z

Beach Cookies

Serves 15/20 bars

Ingredients:

½ cup vegan margarine
2 cups digestive biscuits
1 cup canned coconut milk
¼ cup agave syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional)
1 ½ cups non-dairy chocolate chips

Procedure:

Preheat oven to 350F/170C.
Melt margarine in microwave or over stove and pour into a 9x13” baking pan. Swirl around until the bottom of the pan is completely coated.
Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly into pan until bottom of the pan is completely coated in crumbs. Pat down lightly with your hands.
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, agave, vanilla, and salt. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer.
Sprinkle the shredded coconut into the pan, then layer the optional nuts, then the chocolate chips. With the palm of your hand, gently pat the top of the cookie pan so that the chocolate chips get cemented into the rest of the cookie.
Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until center looks thick and slightly bubbly with very lightly browned edges.
Let cool then refrigerate for a couple hours or best overnight.
Cut into even bars.

2010-07-29T14:42:00.002Z

Vegan Recipe Finder by VegWeb

Description:

With more than 13,000 user-submitted and tested recipes, the one-of-a-kind Vegan Recipe Finder by VegWeb.com presents the world’s most comprehensive collection of meat-free recipes. Discover new dishes, from the top-rated General Tao’s Tofu to indulgent dairy-free Peanut Butter Cups, complete with photos, easy-to-use shopping lists, and user ratings.

The convenient recipe box feature makes organizing your favorites a breeze, and with new recipes added daily, you’ll always be inspired to whip up a veg meal.

Whether you want to cook healthier or just enjoy delicious, vegetarian cuisine, it’s time to meet your new favorite cookbook!

Features include:

- 13,000 vegan recipes, with more added daily
- Easy-to-use search
- A grocery list to make shopping a snap
- A recipe box to store all your favourites
- Sort recipes alphabetically, by rating, or by number of views
- Recipe photos can be expanded to full screen
- Share recipes via email, Facebook, and Twitter
- View top-rated recipes in a single click

2010-07-28T17:11:00.003Z

There comes a time when even I had to give in and join the Twitter nation.

I'm not someone who want's to talk about themselves but I thought I would Tweet about Food, People and Books.

I will start off by trying to do it every day but we will just have to see.

2010-07-03T20:36:00.002Z

This has to be one of the best Cupcake books on the market... Shame not one of the recipes are Vegan. One thing I have learned is that should never stop you from picking up a cookbook and then Veganising all of them for your own pleasure.

One of the things I love about trips to NYC is cheesecake and Oreos. The first I've never found Vegan in New York the second is always Vegan in the US. So I went off to Vx in London and got some Oreo 'style' Vegan cookies and went ahead and Veganised Martha's Oreo Cookie Mini Cheesecakes.

Well they worked out great... so off I go to eat loads....

Bear x

2010-06-29T12:49:00.004Z

So love Apple or hate Apple you have to stand back and say wow! The new iPhone 4 is a thing of beauty, it's slick lines and shinny front and back glass panels leave the 3GS standing at the side lines.

But this thing of beauty is going to take some getting use too, it sits in the hand and feels a little odd. You want to say it feels as good as it looks but I felt like I was going to drop it as soon as I got hold of it... Not good when to replace it would be over £500...

I've not had it long enough to say if it truly is a gift from the gods so I'll let one of my most loved websites let you know what they think... Engadget

Bear x

2010-06-28T07:29:00.004Z

So one of the best Vegan on-line shop has gone and opened a real life shop here in sunny London.

SSOV have named it Vx and it's down by Kings Cross.

They have a cake exchange coming up on the 6th July 2010, so why not go down and swap some cupcakes or whoopie pies.

2010-06-24T19:46:00.002Z

So the day has come, the new iPhone 4 came out this morning and as you know I'm a bit of a Mac head and have to get everything Mac as soon as I can. This time however I was a little clear headed. I have not only ordered a phone so I'm sitting here without my new baby, but I have chosen to change carriers and move from O2 to Orange.

Orange offered me more for less and were willing to bend over backwards for me. So it's good bye O2 and hello Orange Wednesday's, more Wifi coverage and a better 3g network.

I will keep you up to date on how things go. Come on Orange don't let me down.

Bear

2010-06-22T12:00:00.000Z

Well it's here and it's amazing. I found the book that I wanted and downloaded it in seconds. Within a minuet I had sorted the text and the background colour. All I have to do tomorrow is start reading.

The book I hear you ask? Apartment 16...

I'll let you know what I think later.

This is a QR link, I will be starting to use them in my post maybe not as big though. This one will take you through to iBooks app page so you can download it.

Bear x

2010-06-21T12:00:00.001Z

2010-06-20T12:25:00.002Z

Vegan Marshmallows are one of the things that cost the earth and are really hard to get in the UK. I've always thought it's something that should be easy to make myself, but until now I haven't found a recipe or website that could point me in the right direction.

Please note I said until now. I came across this great open-sourse blog called Vegan Marshmallows (click to go to link). I've yet to try it myself but the recipes look really workable.

Bear x

2010-06-19T11:54:00.003Z

It's been just short of a year when I last posted on this site and I have gone through a lot of changes both in my life and in my state of mind. Baz and I are still together and still for the time being living in London although this may soon be changing. We are looking to head to Derby and rent a house there.

For now though I am in London and never let it be said that I don't think of you all while I'm walking through the streets of this big town trying to find the coolest Vegan Fair I can to temped you from the couch and onto those streets.

I've found the Vegan Vixen herself hiding in Greenwich Market and some have said she also can be found in the Tea Rooms off Brick Lane. Who is this woman of temptation I can hear you ask? Well dear friends none other than one Ms Cupcake herself. This woman has temped me into a Vegan frenzy of taste and debauchery that would make a Burlesque troop look like the local Catholic school girls Netball team. How? Well with the food of the gods itself, her sweet, soft and bigger than life Cupcakes.

I was foolish to think that a Bear like myself could tame this Vixen and work my own magic on the tasty treats. So not being one to shy away from any task I took on eight different flavours, they came in the most amazing little box that hugged each one as not to damage any before I got them home. And let me tell you I have been crushed into submission. None of my cake will ever stand up to the amazing Cupcakes I have now sampled.

The Cub and I took on each one a bite at a time...

Cookies N Cream

Pina Colada

Tripple Chocolate (see picture above)

The Ambassador (my dream come true more like)

Kendal Mint Cake

Raspberry Ripple (Cub liked this one, although he said he hasn't tried all the flavours as yet so will get back to me on that one)

Strawberry Dream

Jaffa Cake

Don't think this list is all that she has on offer check out her website for more pictures and flavours. www.mscupcake.co.uk and if you really want to see them close up for yourself then go see if you can tame the Vegan Vixen herself at Greenwich or Brick Lane Markets, and see if she has come up with any new tastes for your temptation. Rumours have been going around that Whoopie Pies have been spotted once or twice hiding on her stool.

We were so impressed that we even ordered up 24 to take to a non Vegan wedding last weekend, and not to any surprise they went down better than all of the other food.

Bear x

2009-07-16T16:04:00.002Z

Here are some photo's of Baz and I at the O2 arena, where we went to see NIN (Nine Inch Nails) Gary Newman came on stage and sang 'Cars' with them. (see video at end of Blog)

2009-07-09T18:13:00.001Z

This is one of the best things I have seen in a long time. Simon's Cat's book is out later this year and will be really really big. I have heard that the print run is not as big as it could be so order early.

Bear

2009-07-07T09:35:00.001Z

These are just a few of the great free iPhone wall papers that can be downloaded from the Gelaskins website or from their free apps from the apps store.

Gelaskins website

I hope you have as much fun as I had with them.

Bear. x

2009-07-06T09:29:00.000Z

Jay Brannan new t-shirt now available on his website, and you can now also pre-order his live album on there too.

I love this t-shirt design I can't wait to get one... his website is www.jaybrannan.com

2009-07-05T09:46:00.003Z

So someone pointed out to me the other day it may have seemed I mistakenly had fallen off the earth for a bit...

But now I'm back, maybe not 24/7 but more often than I have been...

So what's been going on?

Baz and I got engaged... Before you ask we are not going to tie the knot till 2012 or when we sell up and move out of London. The reason being that we want to have a house that is ours together and we are away from the madness of 'the rat race'

Work is hard but so much fun. I'm now the full-time permanent assistant manager at the bookstore in Greenwich after being on secondment for 4 months.

I have also been reading like a demon so I will also be post some reviews for you over the next few weeks.

I have also found some new artists who's music I have come to love and will post links to their sites for you to check out.

We are still happy Vegan's and so I will also post some more great food tips and cookbook reviews to keep you more up to date of the culinary journey of 'Two Vegan Bears' in London.

I'll get back to you soon with some more...

Bear. x

2009-03-18T16:53:00.004Z

2009-01-22T07:18:00.001Z

If you've ever found yourself looking for a book similar to one you've just read, or maybe you've liked an author and they haven't written any new books lately, then this list may help you Discover something new to read...

Dan Brown – Da Vinci Code

• Raymond Khoury - The Last Templar

Stephenie Meyer - Twilight

• Anne Rice - Interview with a Vampire

Lionel Shriver - We Need to Talk About Kevin

• DBC Pierre – Vernon God Little

Jodi Picoult – My Sisters Keeper

• Lori Lansens – The Girls

Mark Gatiss – The Vesuvius Club

• Gyles Brandreth - Oscar Wild and the Candlelight Murders

Terry Nation – Survivors

• Max Brooks – World War Z

Carlos Ruiz Zafon – The Shadow of the Wind

• Markus Zusak – The Book Thief

George Orwell – 1984

• Cory Doctorow – Little Brother

Jo Brand – Sorting Out Billy

• Julian Clary – Murder Most Fab

James Herbert – Portent

• Clive Cussler – Polar Shift

Joseph O’Neil – Netherland

• Salman Rushdie - Fury

2009-01-21T07:47:00.002Z

Well some would say it's been to long, and some will say thank the gods he's been able to keep his opinion to himself for at least some time over the holidays. But for those of you who have missed me I felt it was time to explain where I've been and what I've been up to.

Firstly let me just wish you all a happy New Year and for those of you in the USA it was about time! I hope you all enjoyed yesterday (20th Jan).

So the last time I was really with you was on the 18th November last year. I've been working very hard in my new job as Assistant Store Manager at Waterstone's bookstore in Greenwich, London. It's been the most amazing experience and I haven't had as much fun ever. But it's been taking up all of my time and still is for the most part. The only reason I'm able to update you now is that I've taken a days holiday.

At home we have had a strange few months getting use to having to pay mounting bills as the economy slows and prices rise. I finally feel that we have got our head above water again and I can see a summer of smiles and relaxing evenings with Baz. We are days away from our third year anniversary with us being stronger than ever. It's true what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.

The cats are well with Noah getting bigger all the time and never letting up on our other cat for one minuet.

I've learnt one very important thing over the last few months and that is don't believe everything that you read in the press no matter how small the story or how big the news.

A diet update for you I've lost another 4kg or almost 9lbs, making a total of 18kg or 39.7lbs thanks to the help of Reductil or as I like to call it my magic little helper. But best of all I've gone from a 44inch waist down to a 36inch waist and my hips are now wider than my belly. This means I have reduced my risk of getting Onset Diabetes.

I will try to keep you updated more often but I will have a lot less time over the next few months. So if I'm not around then please keep safe and look after the one's around you.

Bear. X

Lego Yule

2008-12-21T21:02:00.001Z

Lego Christmas
Originally uploaded by Balakov

Happy Yule Everyone...

Vegan Bear XXX

2008-12-01T01:08:00.000Z

2008-11-18T21:41:00.002Z

I thought I would just post a quick one to let you all know I'm still alive and that I've not forgotten you. My new job is taking up all my time including my days off and even my evenings. The store is really starting to feel like home (in a good way) I work with some really great people and I'm making the most of being there.

I will try and post some kids book ideas this weekend so any of you looking to get some books as gifts can see some that are not maybe around in every book store.

If I get it up this weekend you will still have time to order them or ask your book store to order them in time for the big day.

You'll have to forgive the photos but as always I'm pushing some of my own...

Bear. X

2008-11-07T07:57:00.002Z

I haven't in the past posted may photo's of my work but I thought I would change that and give you a little snap shot of our Christmas window displays.

I know if your like me it freaks you out to see Christmas things in stores this early but I have to say that it has been nice this year with all money problems it's just made it feel a little better.

I've now been at my new store for just under a week and it's been hard work but so much fun. Twice this week I've come home and just fallen asleep in front of the T.V, but I don't mind being exhausted from working hard as I feel it is appreciated.

I thought as we are coming up to gifting time that I would start to look at what books are out there and maybe pointing the ones I like out. It's meant as nothing more than to help you out and maybe show you some books that you don't always see.

I would always say 'support you local book store' they need you now more than ever, and what better way than giving a gift of a book.

Giving someone you love the right book is not only cheap but it's one of the best ways to show you've thought about what someone would love.

Bear. X

2008-11-03T00:15:00.001Z

Tomorrow is the day that all of you in the USA have the chance to change the world as we know it.

Please for the sake of the rest of the world use your vote.

Bear. X

2008-11-02T18:42:00.002Z

So with only a few hours to go before I start my new job I thought I would post some photo's from the Halloween party at a friends house we went to last night.

I not only did our make-up but made Tiffin Cake and Coconut Flap Jacks...

We had a lot of fun playing around in the hall of the house. I think the hall was our party in the kitchen...

Well it's time to do some more work for tomorrow but I will let you know how I got on...

Bear. X

2008-10-30T18:48:00.002Z

I thought I would give you a quick update and let you know what I've been up too and why I've not been posting for the last few weeks...

So I went for a drink with a mate who runs one of the shops in the company I work for. She told me that they had been talking about me in her area meeting and how I was good at my job and all. *BLUSH*

She told me there was a job going at one of the stores in her area. She said that I should give them a call and see what was going on. The job applications had closed the day before but they were interested in talking to me about it if I was game.

So Baz and I headed down the next day and I spoke to the manager and he did indeed want me to apply. So after three long hours of filling in my application I sent it in.

They offered me a interview this Monday just gone and late yesterday they called and offered me the job as assistant manager of the Greenwich store in south London. It's just next to the Thames and a minuet walk from the big park with the Royal Observatory in it. I can get to work by boat most of the way or I can travel through the docklands, it's so nice I can't wait to start...

Talking of starting thats only 3 days away (Monday) and tomorrow is my last day at my old job. I'm sure over the next week or so I will have time to update you but please don't think I've forgotten you...

Bear. X

2008-10-16T07:55:00.000Z

Vegan Chocolate Tiffin/Fridge Cake.

250g of Digestive Biscuits or Plain Hobnobs
50g of Raisins 
50g of Macadamia Nuts
400g of chopped up Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Chips
100g of Vegan Margarine
4 tablespoons of Golden Syrup or Agave Nectar

Crumble the digestive biscuits or hobnobs into a bowl. You’re aiming for them to be in small pieces, not like the dust you’d want for a cheesecake base.
Add the raisins and chopped nuts to the biscuits and mix well.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan, and then add the syrup/nectar, heat for a couple of minutes - gently - stirring frequently.
Add the broken chocolate to the mix and mix till it has melted, don't over heat.
Tip the chocolate mix over the crushed biscuit mix and stir until the dry ingredients are all thoroughly coated.
Press the mixture into an 8-inch tin, and smooth with the back of a spoon. It’s best to line the tin with some clingfilm to make it easy to remove the cake later.
Cover the top with more clingfilm, and when cooled place the cake into the fridge for at least a couple of hours to become firm.
Take out of the fridge; turn out onto a plate, cut into 12 pieces.

I hope you enjoy this quick and easy cake. It's a great store cupboard cake that you can put together if you have friends or family coming over for Thanks Giving...

Bear. X

2008-10-15T01:34:00.001Z

For todays Blog I will be talking about Poverty...

For many people in the U.K and around the world Poverty is something that happens in third world and developing countries and without saying it doesn't I wanted to point out how its happening right here, and across the world in the developed countries.

The old saying when I was a child was 'the haves and the have nots' never is that truer than in 2008. I'm not talking about people who have been affected by the credit crunch but by everyday people who before prices of food began to rise had problems feeding and clothing themselves and their family.

I know of a young girl who at the age of 15 became pregnant. Now I know some may think this is a dumb kid she shouldn't have got pregnant, but you know she did and she kept the baby. She had grown up in care and for the first time it was something she could love and would love her back without adding conditions onto it.

Now she is 22 and she has a son of 7 who is a great kid who is loved more than any child I know. But his mother is so unhappy and lost because every day is a fight to put food on the table and cloths on his back. Simple things like having heating and hot water mean that often they go without thing we take for as given. She had never taken her son to see the sea or out to the movies. He has no toys but from Oxfam or things people have given her second hand. Most if not all of his cloths are hand me downs and his best cloths are his school uniform that is often two sizes to small for him.

She gets some help from the government but it mostly now goes on food and paying back the loan sharks that she had to borrow money off last year to pay the bills and the back council tax that she owed, it was that or be kicked out of their home. Once a week a man knocks on her door and takes most of the money she has to pay the sharks. She has tried to get a job but having left school at 15 she has no exams and the jobs she can get means that she would be working when she needs to be home looking after her son.

The government of this great country of our doesn't see the little people any more, it has bigger things to think about. The sub-prime index, banks going bust, fuel prices that could cost them the next election, and even a war on the other side of the world where fathers, sons, mothers and daughters are being killed every day because one mad president blames a religion for some crazy peoples actions seven years ago.

So winter is coming and how will she heat their home or pay the bills, put food on the table and a smile on her sons face.

'POVERTY' comes in many forms and affects many people all over the world, it's sometimes harder for people to see what's not on the television and right in front of them every day.

Bear. X

Make poverty history for everyone all over this world.

2008-10-14T08:53:00.002Z

I would like to point out that it was not only the 5 of us at this party but a whole lota Bears... Baz and I went to a friends birthday party on Saturday night and had lots of fun. Our friend then posted this very funny photo on his Face Book page and sums up just how much fun we had...

I should say also our host for the evening did lay on some nice Vegan food for Baz and I. It's the first time I've been to a party and someone has laid on some food we can eat...

Bear. X

2008-10-13T08:43:00.001Z

You may have noticed the new application on the side bar that appeared yesterday... You can now see I have joined the many in tuning into www.Last.fm.com the great new radio station that creates a playlist around bands you like to listen to...

Along with the new iTunes application 'Genius' (see iTunes new update) I have been introduced to loads of bands I use to listen to when I was young. Yesterday you saw 'Bronski Beat' and today it's 'King'. King is very electro 80's music and I only really use to play this one album 'steps in time' Click on the title of the album to be taken to Last.fm where you can play a few tracks.

Below you can see the track playlist that 'Genius' on iTunes picked for me from using 'Love & Pride' by King as a start track...

So I'm sitting back and playing some cool tracks... I could think of nothing better to do on a Monday...

Bear. X

2008-10-12T09:02:00.002Z

I thought I would post these YouTube videos as it reminds me of a part of my life that made me who I am today.

I went to a party last night and found myself having a 'so, how did you come out as being Gay?' conversation with a group of gay men of very differing ages.

I came out to myself when I was 13 and it took another 2 to 3 years before I told my family. It is very hard to know when and if you should tell someone about your something as important as this and you have to judge how safe it is to do so.

The day I came out to my mum she hit me and did a lot of shouting, but as with any thing she came around in time. But the time when you need the most support she became part of the problem.

I remember part of the conversation with her when she was going on about wanting me to be 'normal' and me saying that, 'the only 'normal' thing about me was me being Gay'

Bronski Beat and Jimmy Somerville just spoke to me about my life and who I was. The first track here is 'Small Town Boy'

The second video is 'Why' a song that gave me so much strength and power. I use to have the crap kicked out of me everyday at school and I would come home at night and play this and it would mend all of my wounds.

It's very easy some 25 years on to think that it must be so much easier for people to come out now, but one thing I learned from last night is that whenever you come out to people you love be it now or 25 years ago we all still want them to love us as much as we love them. Coming out to a loved one is about trusting them as much as it is about the act of doing it. You don't tell someone something this important to have them hate you and reject you. You want them to know because they are important to you and the fact that you can't be 100% yourself when you are with them starts to eat you up from deep inside.

One thing for sure you will know when to tell someone and if they love you and you love them in time they will come around.

Bear. X

2008-10-08T11:42:00.001Z

366-280
Originally uploaded by mr_moog

2008-10-06T19:55:00.005Z

Rev Peter Mullen

Is this man a person of God?

A Church of England vicar could face disciplinary action for saying in his blog that gay men should have 'sodomy' warnings tattooed on their bodies.

The Rev Peter Mullen, who is a parish priest and rector in the City of London, made the remarks on his blog, which has since been removed from the web under an agreement with diocesan officials, (or more like to stop him finding out how people really feel about him and his ideas).

Mullen, 66, wrote it was time for religious believers to recommend the discouragement of homosexual practices in the style of cigarette packet warnings.

'Let us make it obligatory for homosexuals to have their backsides tattooed with the slogan sodomy can seriously damage your health and their chins with fellatio kills'.

The gay rights group Outrage described the comments as 'Neanderthal'.

A Diocese of London spokeswoman said the remarks did not reflect its views.

Rev Mullen said 'I certainly have nothing against homosexuals. Many of my dear friends have been and are of that persuasion', (and I'm sure they all wish you the best of health every day you are on this planet).

In the same blog, Rev Mullen called for all gay pride parades, which he branded "obscene", to be outlawed.

The Diocese of London spokeswoman said officials had met Rev Mullen and it had been agreed that the comments should be removed.

She said 'While clergy are entitled to their own personal views, we fully recognise that the content of this text is highly offensive and it is in no way reflective of the views of the Diocese of London'.

Later in todays press Rev Mullen said 'The comment was made in a joking manner and not as a serious statement'. So the Rev Mullen will not mind me calling him a 'Nazi Tosser and a Servant of the Devil' (but please remember that this comment is made in the joking way that the Rev feels his statements should be taken).

Bear.

2008-10-02T19:23:00.002Z

Uploaded on Flickr by Sam & Kosmo

So I've been off work for a week on holiday, though I haven't really left my flat for a week (apart from the trip to Brighton) I have been trying to rest up and hopefully repair my muscles in my legs.

For the best part this has worked, but after a 8 1/2 hour shift back at work today I'm now in as much pain as I was before I had the week off. So it's back to the physiotherapist next Wednesday for some more treatment.

I'm so longing to start running and going to the gym but I was clearly told to not over do it. I just wish I hadn't slipped that day four weeks ago.

Bear. X

2008-09-28T16:38:00.005Z

Here are some photo's from our day trip to Brighton. As you can see it was really sunny and hot so it made for a great day by the sea.

Brighton has two piers, but one of the burnt down years ago and all that is left is the shell. Someone has done this great bit of street art on one of the posts.

There were loads seagulls around all day with some of them as big as a dog. Here are just a few sitting around enjoying the sun.

This was on a market stall back in London but it reminded me that Fall is only around the corner.

Brighton has always been known for it's street art.

If only we had time to sit and watch the sea every day, what a amazing world it would be...

Baz looking cute as usual. You can see in the background Brighton burnt out pier.

Oh and a shot of me. Just to piss the person off who said I post a lot of pictures of myself. You should note in the early days of this blog I never posted photos of myself or if I did it would have been only ones of my face, your getting to see just a little bit more of me as my weight goes down... Who knows one day you may see my feet. *grin*

Bear. x

2008-09-28T09:07:00.003Z

I thought I would shoot another slimmer photo of myself for you all to see. I lost another 2kg this week so it's a happy smile on my face...

Bear. X

2008-09-27T08:34:00.000Z

Finding Vegan candy in the U.K is really hard and we only tend to stock up once a year at the London Vegan Festival, but that may have all changed. Last week we were out shopping in Camden Town market and came across the Candy Cabin a great little shop with loads of Vegan hard candy for sale.

We went for the RHUBARB & CUSTARD a very english candy that taste as it sounds and better still they do a sugar free version.

If you want to try them then you can order them on line. You will have to e-mail them at the moment to find out what one's are Vegan as they are updating the website at the moment and haven't put the Vegetarian/Vegan information on, but most of the hard candy on the site is Vegan. The woman who owns the site/shop was so nice you couldn't ask for a nicer person to deal with.

You can get to the website by clicking here... The Candy Cabin

Enjoy...

Bear. X

2008-09-26T20:39:00.000Z

Makes you think...

Is there an answer to the world problems?

I know it will not take much to push us over the edge...

Bear. X

The End of the World as we know it...

2008-09-26T15:39:00.001Z

004hfe66
Originally uploaded by EnhydraSF

I had to post this picture. I thought you would all like it...

Bear. x

2008-09-25T07:56:00.003Z

The Magical Loaf Studio

Design Your Own Adventist-Style Vegan Dinner Loaf!
created by Jennifer McCann for the Vegan Lunch Box Blog.

I came across this great website while browsing Planet Vegan Freak a trawling website that collects vegan blog postings so you don't have to spend hours clicking on every site.

But getting back to The Magical Loaf Studio and why I think it's so good. If you ever wanted to make a vegan 'meat'less loaf but didn't have all the items in the recipe or you wanted to make it healthier. Well stress no more go to the website and just follow the instructions and it will create a recipe for you.

Here is an example of one I created, but you should really try it out for yourself...

Vegan Bear's Lentil loaf

Ingredients:

1/2 cup sunflower seeds
2 TB vegetable oil
One onion, diced
One large garlic clove, minced
One large carrot, peeled and grated
Two celery ribs, diced
2 cups cooked lentils
1 cup dry whole wheat bread crumbs
1/4 to 1/2 cup liquid from cooked or canned beans, as needed
1 heaping TB flaxseed meal
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
2 TB ketchup
2 TB soy sauce

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350º. Spray a loaf pan or 8x8 square baking pan with nonstick spray and set aside (an 8x8 pan makes a crisper loaf).

Grind the sunflower seeds into a coarse meal using a food processor or spice/coffee grinder. Place in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Sauté any vegetables you've chosen in the vegetable oil until soft. Add to the large mixing bowl along with all the remaining ingredients. Mix and mash together well, adding only as much liquid as needed to create a soft, moist loaf that holds together and is not runny (you may not need to add any liquid if the grains and protein are very moist). Add more binder/carbohydrate as needed if the loaf seems too wet.

Press mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until cooked through.

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then turn out onto a plate or platter and slice. Serve with potatoes, vegetables, and vegetarian gravy, if desired.

Cold leftover slices of Vegan Bear's Lentil loaf make a great sandwich filling.

So why not give it a try and let me know how you got on.

Bear. X

2008-09-21T14:36:00.004Z

Some photos from yesterday that I thought I would post for you to see...

Baz chillin after a hard day on the sofa

Reflections on the Thames

Curved Building

Tower Block

2008-09-21T09:17:00.001Z

Here are some photo's from Tree-Athlon London 2008.

As you can see it was a sunny day with lots of people around having fun.

I hope that next year I will be one of the many people running to help put trees in our cities and make them greener for our next generation.

I did go for a walk/run this morning but I discovered that my injury is still not as giving me a bit of trouble. I walked slower than I did before I fell and hurt myself over 3 weeks ago.

As my friend said I'm just going to have to take it slowly and build it up. I may go for a swim tomorrow and see how that feels.

2008-09-20T07:04:00.001Z

So today I have set up my Nike+ training program. Although I'm still in some pain from my accident I now feel able to start to train. So putting my new toy to work I have set up my walk/run training program starting tomorrow.

I find nike+ website a bit slow and not very user friendly but I'm sure I will get use to it over time.

Here are two screen shots from the site.

On other news I have now picked my first run to take part in and it will be a 5k in December.

I'm now off to watch a Tree-Athion that I would like to do next year. I will try to post some photo's later.

I got Baz a Nike+ iPod kit and hope he joins me in my training... watch this space.

Bear. X

2008-09-16T21:02:00.000Z

The Looniness of the Long Distance Runner:

An Unfit Londoner's Attempt to Run the New York City Marathon from Scratch
By Russell Taylor

Synopsis

Take one unfit 39-year-old Londoner and present him with the challenge of training for, and running, the New York City Marathon. This is Russell Taylor's humorous account of his journey from its unwise inception after too many beers, through the first teetering steps on the treadmill to the big show-down in NYC. Inspired by the charity running of his friends, Russell Taylor decided to spare himself the post-event trauma of trying to extract money from reluctant sponsors by writing this book and donating the proceeds to charity instead. This account follows our intrepid runner north London gym to the mean streets of Manhattan as we discover what lurks within the breast of the endurance athlete: an unreasonable hatred of his fellow runners (except nubile females of the species), a contempt for the idiocy of stadium announcers and a strange fear of spectators inanely shouting, "Keep going," by way of encouragement. Written with panache and self-deprecating humour, this is ideal entertainment for anyone who has ever run any distance on their own two legs.

2008-09-14T06:34:00.005Z

Dude

Uploaded on Flickr by aknacer

So I'm very stiff but I managed to walk my 3.5k yesterday in about 30 minuets which I thought wasn't to bad considering I'm still in some pain. I find that if I warm up by walking slowly my muscles warm up and give more easily and I have less pain.

I do think that I need to see a physio at some point though so I can get some tips on what is the best way to help it heal better. I have a feeling that I'm going to have more problems with this injury than I'm currently aware of.

So all being well I will call my personal trainer tomorrow and see what he thinks about me coming back to the gym at some point next week. I think I'll start with some swimming and then move up to the running machine by the weekend if I feel up to it.

I never thought I would long to start running but I guess I've read so much about other peoples achievements and personal goals and stories that I too want to be there and be able to shear it with you. I now see myself as a mental runner, I just now have to get the physical part up and going, and get it right.

What's the old cliché 'every journey of 1000 miles starts with the first step' well I took my first step and now I want to make my journey of 1000 miles. I still don't see myself every doing a full Marathon, but who knows. For me it's not about the length or millage it's about achieving the action and maintaining it.

I wish I could get Baz to do it with me, and I know if I lead by example then maybe he will do it by himself. If I can I will take him out and get him fitted for a pair of running shoe when I get some money.

So on another note I'm on day 2 of my 7 days in a row at work. I even dreamt that I was half way through it last night... I get the feeling it's going to be a long week.

I also decided I'm going to ask to be moved from the basement floor in the shop to the leisure department after academic season. (I manage the academic floor in a book store). I would really like to work in the leisure section for christmas.

Any ways I'm off or I'll be late.

Bear. X

2008-09-13T06:47:00.003Z

So I was planning to start my recovery training on Monday next week having given myself two weeks to repair the damage done to the muscles in the tops of my legs caused by an accident in a supermarket.

But as with all good plans they have to be flexible, and when I turned on the television to watch the news this morning I found out that they bus service I use to get to work was not running due to a 48 hour strike by the drivers.

The good news is that it is only the last part of my journey that's affected so it will mean walking the last 5k. I was planning to start my walk to run training again on Monday so it will just mean brining that forward by two days.

I will also go back to the gym if all goes well over the next four days of walking and with any luck I will be back on my training plan by the end of next week.

This is the training plan I have developed to make the most of the next 10 weeks I have at the gym. I have tried to make the most of all parts of the gym as well as using my new love for walking/running. As I was saying above it will have to be flexible as shifts at work and other outside forces do change things and I will be digging out my new unused exercise bike, or as we like to call it the cloths horse thing in the bedroom.
I'm in love with the new application 'Genius' on the iTunes up-date. 'Genius' is essentially an automated DJ that once activated can build genre-based playlists based on the music in your library. You are able to fine tune it by going into your listings and creating your own genres in the 'Get Info' section when you've highlighted a track or an album. I have created a 'Warm Up' and a 'Run' genre to help create my play lists.

If you have the new up-date then why not give it a try.

Bear. X

2008-09-12T19:33:00.001Z

So I've been looking at the Nike+ kit and I've been wanting to get the Spot's Band for some time but haven't liked the thought of having to buy Nike shoes so when I can across these.
I thought I would give it a try and see how it works out. According to the instructions on the Amazon website it works because it sits in the same place as the Nike sports shoe but on the top of your foot. You thread it behind your laces and then lock it into place.

I'm going to have to wait till the middle of next week for it to comes but I will let you know how it works out.

Bear. X

2008-09-11T08:53:00.001Z

So this weeks up-date on weight is as follows:

Start weight: 117 kg
Current weight: 102.6 kg
Weight lost this week: 2 kg
Total weight lost: 14.4 kg

Goal weight: 79 kg
Total Weight from start to goal: 38 kg
Total weight to go: 23.6 kg

Not as much as I have lost before but I haven't been as mobile as I have been over the last few weeks.

Bear. X

2008-09-10T07:17:00.001Z

Like I need an excuse to put photo's of Jay Brannan on here, but I thought it was a bit of eye candy for you to look at before I started my rants for the day...

I've just downloaded iTunes 8.0 and can I just say I'm very impressed with it's new look as well as the new 'Genius' software. Genius works in two ways, the first is as a smart play list creator and secondly as a 'you like this, then you may like these'

Here is the play list it suggested from me selecting 'Half Boyfriend' as my chosen key song for it to make up a play list from.

Half-Boyfriend 4:11 Jay Brannan Goddamned
Little Yellow Spider 3:41 Devendra Banhart
Ode to Billy Joe 4:20 Phranc
Talk of the Town 5:10 Kate Walsh
On All Fours 4:31 Jay Brannan
Suzanne 3:47 Leonard Cohen
Body's a Temple 3:50 Jay Brannan
There's Gotta Be Something 3:34 Eric Himan
Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter 3:11 Phranc
Bowlegged & Starving 4:01 Jay Brannan
I Ain't Done With You 4:46 Eric Himan
Bulldagger Swagger 2:49 Phranc Goofyfoot
Bird On a Wire 3:26 Leonard Cohen S
Unstable Boy 3:36 Jay Brannan
At First Sight 3:53 Jay Brannan
Suferdyke Pal 2:39 Phranc
Man You Had in Mind 3:37 Eric Himan
Sisters of Mercy 3:33 Leonard Cohen
26-Hour Day 5:52 Jay Brannan
Joan Of Arc 6:23 Leonard Cohen
Housewife 3:33 Jay Brannan
Goofyfoot 2:46 Phranc
The Partisan 3:23 Leonard Cohen
Goddamned 5:47 Jay Brannan Goddamned
First We Take Manhattan 5:59 Leonard Cohen

I'm playing it now as I type this and I think it's done a really good job of picking songs from my very mixed up music selection on my Macbook.

On other news...

I'm still in loads of pain from my accident last week so I have decided to contact one of those accident compensation claim companies to try and get some money to compensate in some way for the humiliation and pain that I'm going through.

I decided that even if it's enough to pay for Baz and I to join the local gym for a year it will help us both. For me it will give me the use of a pool and running machine to get back from the accident and it will enable Baz to drop some weight as he wants to do that. And the really nice thing is that we will be able to do it together.

I also hope that Tesco do something about the walkway too, so that others don't fall like I did. I will try and take a photo of the walkway later this week and post it so you can see what I slipped on.

I have today off so I'm just chilling and making the most of it as I'm about to do a nine day week after this. All I have to do is think of the over-time and next months pay packet.

I also have loads of reading to catch up on and some photos to take, washing to do and not forgetting shopping and I think Baz said we would go to the Bacon exhibit at the Tate tonight. So a busy day for me... Did I say I was chilin?

So onwards and upwards, I have my check up with the nurse on friday afternoon so we will se if they let me stay on the magic pills or if they take me off again? and lets hope that I lose some more weight to boot.

I think I have as I have gone from a XXXL uniform to an XL at work in just 8 weeks...

Bear. X

2008-09-08T20:36:00.000Z

I thought I would post a photo of my new 'New Balance MR859EU'. I went down to the 'London Marathon Shop' in London's Covent Garden yesterday. I was looking for some 'New Balance 768' but they had sold out and suggested the MR859EU instead, so I thought I would give them a go.

I'm still unable to do any running or speed walking due to my accident last Tuesday but I am still trying to keep my mind in the 'Running Zone' ways I have done this is by:

Joining a running group.
Subscribing to a running magazine.
Join a library so that I can read more running and sports nutrition books.
Apply for a grant from a big company to pay for my gym membership and equipment.
Sign up to as many running websites as I could to get updates and running news.

I will also be writing some things on here to share with you all what I'm learning as I go along they will all be found on my running blog.

This will also include recipes and equipment postings as well as my recovery program plan.

Bear. x

2008-09-07T16:19:00.002Z

Baz and I went to the London Vegan Festival and hooked up with my friend Bridget a.k.a Ginger Girl.

Baz and I thought we would take photo's of each other outside the festival. So this is the first shot of the slimmer but not yet slim me...

And the very sexy Baz, who doesn't appear on here to often...

I will post more about the day later in the week.

Bear. X

2008-09-06T07:32:00.002Z

Sick Sick Sick

Uploaded to Flickr by delinion

So I had to go to see my G.P yesterday, I had spent another bad night with pains in my groin from Tuesdays accident. SHe told me that I had bi lateral tearing of my muscles and possibly damage to my tendons.

No gym for 2-3 weeks and I have to take the walking easy, no running till I get better. I've been told to take painkillers and anti inflammatory's to ease the pain.

I've spent best part of the last hour writing my account of what happened on Tuesday and the days that followed ready to send off to Tesco's H.O.

I'm just really upset about it all and have made it clear to them that I will be taking the matter further until they do something about the walkway.

Bear. x

2008-09-03T21:09:00.001Z

Don't give in to temptation.

So it's day ten and it's not been that good a day. Yesterday I went shopping after my speed walk, in the supermarket they have a traveling floor that takes you from the ground floor to the basement. Just at the top of it they had a sign saying 'slippery when wet' and a large green mat to wipe your feet on.

I wiped my feet and decided to stand on the walkway so I wouldn't slip as I walked down. I had just put my second foot on the walkway and my hand on the rail when both my feet went over my head and I slammed down onto my back on the floor.

I found I couldn't get a footing as it was really wet so I had to let the walkway take me down. I've hurt both my legs and most of my left side. My back however wasn't to bad, but when I went to walk this morning I knew that I had done something to my 'Psoas Magnus' a muscle at the front of my leg between my hip and my groin.

SO today I took it easy and just got through my day at work. I will see how it is tomorrow and take it from there.

I still only have about 4.5 miles to go so I should be able to do that over the weekend.

2008-09-01T07:08:00.003Z

This is a reply to my dear friend 'Zach's' posting to 'run/walk update Saturday 30th Aug'

Zach said...

I get so impatient with myself (with everything really) I used to walk all the time (and there are tones of great places to walk here) but I wanted to be some sort of 'olympic style' runner over nigtht (which is just not going to happen) so I gave up. But I miss it.

My reply...

I know where your coming from, although I never saw myself as an Olympic sports person I had when I was younger been in the jr Olympic team for swimming and I swam about 2 miles a day 7 days a week, so I had always been very competitive in everything I did. It was very much all or nothing with me, and as I got older I slowed down and just found I had other things to think about so very soon I couldn't keep up with my team mates and I started to come second in competitions. For me that was enough to stop me from taking part.

Now some 21 years later and more than 8 stone in weight heavier winning is so far away. But the only thing now a days I have to win at is life its self. By not doing what I'm doing I'm giving up on myself, the weight will keep on coming on and I will be unable to be healthy and live a normal life.

Every morning I wake up and think 'I can't be asked doin this' but then I think 'well just put your running shoes on and get to the door'. Once outside I think 'well your here now so why not warm up by walking a bit?' and soon as my legs have warmed up I find now that my speed gets faster and I start to think about time and how much distance I've covered. I know I'm not running yet and that really frustrates me no end but I know I will be soon and I know when I get there to start off with I will be crap at it, but by setting myself small goals that I can achieve will help me become a winner to my self.

I will never win a award for running but I'm not sure I have to any more. I get so much back from different things like, being able to walk up the stairs at work, having lost 28 lbs, sleeping better and a host of other things I may not have don't even know yet.

I do want to do a 5k run as soon as I'm ready, and one of the reasons for that is I will use it to work out if I am getting fitter but I'm not aiming to win it just to win my battle with myself.

So 'Zach' why not get yourself a good pair of running shoes and get over to Map My Run and start plotting out routes that differ in length and time and start your own program. At the moment you need to work out what is doable for you and set yourself a goal length to walk within two weeks, don't think about running to start with just the first two weeks. Then you can move onto the next two and so on. I'm sure very soon you will be able to make bigger running plans with bigger goals.

You can e-mail me at veganrunners@me.com and I will send you a PDF of my tracker so you can start to keep a record if you would like. It would be great to know I'm not the only person trying to do this out there and maybe one day we could even run together?

Bear. X

www.veganrunners.com

2008-09-01T06:59:00.003Z

This is a great stew that will give you all the protein and fiber you need as well as your 5 a day portions of Vegetables. It will also help with weight loss.

Aduki Bean and Lentil Stew

(will feed 4-6 portions depending on size)

Ingredients:

1 Tin of Aduki Beans
1 Tin of Yellow Lentils
1 Tin of Chopped Tomatoes
1 Head of Celery
2 Large White Onions
2 Leeks
4 Carrots
400g or 1 Bag of Young Spinach
1 tbs Mixed Herbs
¼ tsp Salt
½ tsp Pepper
1 tbs Rapeseed Oil
Up to 3 Cups of Water.

Method:

I use a Magimix to cut down the time chopping but if you don’t have one chop by hand all the Vegetables into the same size pieces. For those of you who are not fans of Celery then chop this finer but still keep it in as it has a high water content and helps remove toxins from the body, and trust me if its fine you will not even know it’s there.

Add the Rapeseed oil to a large pan and heat to a medium heat (not smoking) add the Carrots, Onions, Celery and Leeks to the pan and make sure they have been coated with the oil. Now turn the heat down and cover the pan, when you hand chop your Vegetables they can sometimes be a little dryer than if you use a Magimix so add about a ¼ cup of Water.

Sweat the Vegetables until they are almost soft and the carrots are almost cooked about 10-15 minuets away from being the way you like them, for some of you this will be harder than others.

Now add the drained tins of Aduki Beans and Lentils and the tin of Tomatoes along with all of your seasoning. You can choose to leave any of these seasonings out if you wish or even play around with it if you like. I sometimes add 2 tbsp of Sweet Soy Sauce to give it depth and colour but when I do I will leave out the Salt and some of the Herbs.

Add enough water to make it into a stew and cook the ingredients through till the Vegetables are cooked how you like them. Now here is the important bit, chop up the Spinach. Turning off the stove/gas but leaving the pan where it is add the spinach and mix it in, now leave for 5-10 minuets uncovered.

I tend to let mine cool down before eating as I like to taste all the flavours and I find if its to hot they don’t come through as well.

This stew is great the next day and is very filling hot or cool. You can fridge it for up to two days but remember to let it cool before putting it in the fridge. You can also put it in the freezer for up to one month, but do keep the portions smaller to help it maintain better.

Enjoy.

Bear. X

2008-08-30T09:31:00.000Z

Runners

Uploaded on Flickr by StarbuckGuy

So I thought I would give you an update on here of how my run/walk program is going.

Todays walk was a bit slower and not as long as the others but I still did it.

Length of speed walk: 3.86 km

Total walked this week: 21.79 km or just over 13.5 miles. Thats just over walk way to walking my Marathon in a month already. I think I will have to re-look at this goal.

I also tried out a sports/recovery drink. It was banana flavor and not to bad, but it did repeat a little. I felt o.k after and I haven't had any problems today with tiredness.

I will fill you in more but if you want to read it yourself its at Vegan Runners.

Bear. X

I will post more about it tomorrow.