Motivational Monday!

Happy Monday readers!

Hope you had a wonderful weekend – maybe even a three-day one? I was out of town for a funeral so things have been somewhat of an emotional roller coaster but today was spent sleeping in, listening to good tunes and taking a long walk in our new neighborhood so not all is lost 🙂

Here’s what’s up this week:

Grist answers the question of palm oil alternatives (since the damn stuff is in everything) and even links to a recipe for vegan butter (!)

I know these have nothing to do with health, but these dresses are made from vintage maps and are AMAZING.

I made these pumpkin oat muffins last week and they were so delicious, especially with some crunch on top! Fettle Vegan is one of my favorite newly discovered (by me, anyway) blogs.

If the winter doldrums have you needing a special treat, look no further! This chocolate strawberry truffle pie from Chocolate-Covered Katie is vegan, soy-free and refined-sugar free (and is on my weekend baking list!)

And last but not least, the Chopra Center’s seasonal meditation challenge starts today! My partner and I always do it together as a nice way to end our busy days. You can sign up for free and see how much can happen in 21 days.

Have a great week!

[breathtaking photo from Timoleon Vieta II]