Lunch in a Box: Chipotle Black Bean Burgers

I've now made several variations of bean burgers as a meat free alternative for our weekly lunches. I think the Asian Black Bean Burgers are still my favorite, but these are a close second. They're cheap, easy to make, and can be made in bulk for freezing. I usually add a grain to the burgers, but was too lazy to make a batch of quinoa this go around. So I stuck with beans and pretty much items that were already in our pantry, minus some fresh cilantro and an onion.

While the carb count on these is a little higher than I would like, the fact that they are vegan and (non-certified gluten free) make up for it. I'm just been careful to make sure that my other foods for the day are lower carb and higher protein. Instead of using flour, I substituted oats that I blended in our Vitamix. I'm really trying to cut back on flour and found this was a great change. I say non-certified gluten free because I used the canister of Quaker Oats in our pantry that don't have the specific label on it. So if you have celiac disease, you will probably want to find a certified brand. But if you're looking to just reduce the amount of gluten that you eat, then these are perfect.

I paired the black bean burger with a spinach salad and salsa for dressing, cottage cheese (to up my protein) and fresh watermelon that Hank picked from the Farmer's Market. Delish!

Chipotle Black Bean Burgers
(makes about 8 patties)

2 cans black beans (drained, rinsed and separated)
1/3 chopped bell pepper (I used red, but any color is fine)
1/3 red onion, large chopped
1-3 chipotle peppers (really depends on how much heat you want)
1 tsp chipotle pepper sauce from can (again- adjust to your preference)
juice of one lime

1/2 cup ground flaxseed
3/4 oat flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 cup loosely chopped cilantro

Preheat oven to 400°

1- Mix one can of black beans, bell pepper, onion and chipotle peppers/sauce in a food processor until blended.

2- Put mixture into a large bowl, and add remaining can of beans and other ingredients. Stir well until blended.

3- Drop by heaping spoonful onto a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray.

4- Bake for 10 minutes on one side, flip, and then about 5 minutes on the other.

Note: instead of dirtying up a colander, I usually open the lid on a can of beans almost all the way, and then rinse and drain straight in the can. I'm either totally lazy, or brilliant. Regardless, I hate cleaning dishes.


Best estimate for nutritional information (per burger):

141 calories
2.8g fat
47.7mg sodium
23g carbs
8.7g fiber
2.1g sugar
9g protein

4th of July Sweets

In a fantasy world I would have a gigantic commercial kitchen with all necessary gadgets and ingredients, along with a person to help me clean everything, so that I could bake to my heart's content. A girl can dream, right? While the big dream might not be in the cards for me, the Texas Cottage Food Law does make it a small possibility to at least attempt to sell some of the things that I make without going to the expense of renting a commercial kitchen space.

I've always enjoyed baking in my spare time, and lots of practice and youtube videos have gotten me to a place where I don't mind making and sharing things. For instance- I've made cakes for my niece on two different occasions, decorated cookies for a baby shower, and made plenty of birthday cakes for family. For the first time ever, I even had a friend ask me to make a cake and a smash cake for her son's first birthday next week. While I have a long way to go in perfecting techniques, I feel like I can make great tasting (and often good looking) baked goods.

Lately I've started to do more research about how I can expand what I like to do into a more "professional" endeavor. I'll keep you posted as I navigate those steps, but in the meantime I'm going to keep practicing and improving. I did just that yesterday by making some 4th of July sugar cookies to take to a neighborhood BBQ. While everyone was impressed, I could only see every little imperfection in the cookies. The good news is that the cookie recipe itself is nearly perfected, and I usually prefer taste over pretty any time.

Below are a few things that I have also made recently, including the most amazing S'mores Bites ever!

S'mores Bites with homemade marshmallow topping.

Classic white cake with limoncello curd filling, and pink "petal" frosting.

Red Devil's Food cake with cream cheese icing in a rose pattern.

Onesie sugar cookies and coordinating petit fours.

Our Fur Baby- Brees

Everyone knows by now that we're animal crazy people. I've volunteered for 5 years at the animal shelter, and Hank and I have fostered several dogs and kittens together. We were perfectly happy with our 2 dog/2 cat situation, which made fostering really easy. We simply didn't have room (or hands) for a fifth permanent animal. And then Brees happened.

The foster plea email came to me on a Friday afternoon. Normally I can blow off all the sweet faces that I see on an hourly basis. But this little one stood out. She was a 6 week old shepherd mix puppy who had been picked up off the side of a really busy street, and was far too young to be spending time at the shelter. They wanted her out immediately. I forwarded the email to Hank, who replied with "Just go and get her." We were just two weeks out from our wedding, with a crazy busy schedule. I thought there was no way he would agree, but didn't hesitate at all and drove in Friday traffic to pick her up.

Leaving the shelter and heading home.

The plan was we'd foster her for three weeks until she was old enough for adoption, and then likely find her a home through our own social/friend network (not a chance I would give her away to a total stranger). But not even 24 hours later, we were already tinkering with the idea of calling her our own.

Playing in the yard her first day home.

We knew that our next dog (when were were down an animal or two) would be a dog that Hank could eventually run with, and given the size of her paws, there was no doubt that she would grow big enough to handle the exercise. So in our minds, we were able to justify that the timing of our plan was just happening a little sooner than we thought. And seriously, do you see that face?!

The other pets tolerated her puppiness, and when we officially made the decision to keep her, we knew we would need to come up with an official name. The shelter had named her Bonnie, but we had a good friend with the same name, and it just didn't seem to fit our little girl. Since we are both big football fans, and her black and tan coloring reminded us of the Saints, we decided that Brees was more fitting. She even has her own jersey that she will likely outgrow before football season even gets here.

In the almost 3 months that she's been with us now, we've certainly had our fair share of puppy shenanigans to deal with. Potty training was easy (crate training is a must!) but the biting/jumping/general naughty behavior keeps us on our toes on a daily basis. If the house is quiet, then you know that trouble is brewing.

Marley is like "I had nothing to do with this!"

We made a first attempt at a Puppy Training class at Petsmart, but the instructor ended up in the hospital and missed two classes. So we'll be starting from scratch next Tuesday at her first Hearts and Paws puppy class. She's a smart girl, and already knows sit and down. But there is a whole lot left to learn! She'll also be spending one day a week in playcare at Mud Puppies. We're hoping that playing with dogs most of the day will make even the smallest dent in the amount of energy she has. Plus, the socialization will be great. She is super dog friendly so far, but Maddie and Marley can only take so much of her.

She's doing great on walks, eats like a champ, and loves playing with her toys (duck is her current favorite). But I think her most favorite thing is water! She refuses to go to the bathroom in the yard when the sprinklers are on, but pull out her kiddie pool and she dives in head first! She's a water dog for sure.

Brees and Maddie having a stare down over duck.

While she wasn't necessarily in our plans, we can't imagine our life without her. She's been so much fun to have, and we're looking forward to watching her grow up into a beautiful (big) girl. I know there are many arguments for getting a pet from a breeder vs from a shelter or rescue group, but I think Brees makes a great case for the quality of dog that can be rescued. We wouldn't have done it any other way.

6 weeks

8 weeks

12 weeks

14 weeks

An Interview by Maddie

The purpose of Pet Week at The Holland House is to give readers an insight into each of our animal's personalities.  Sometimes the process works, sometimes it does not.  The latter is the case with Maddie, the fearless Peekapoo (go ahead and make your jokes now).  The interview started off smooth but in true Maddie fashion, she quickly turned the interview around revealing her dominant, take charge personality.

Me: So Maddie, can you describe for our audience how we met?

Maddie: I was the last of my brothers and sisters to find a home.  It was a good thing you showed up when you did because I was about to go all "raging Peekapoo" on the two Pomeranians I was stuck with in the crate.  I had slowly formulated my plan to exact revenge. In essence, you rescued the Pomeranians. Anyway, you picked me because I was so cute and lovable.

Me: And the only one left.

Maddie: You loved me.  How could you not?  I mean, seriously, look at my lovely locks and my underbite.  You know, I am supermodel like.

Me: Can you give...

Maddie: Do you remember the time I skinned the possum? Good thing Marley saved the babies because I was going to train them to be my personal servants.  I am a Warrior Princess, small in stature but mighty in spirit.  I am the ultimate girl dog for you dad, you can take me hunting then dress me up and make me look pretty.

Me: A) I do not hunt and B) I most definitely DO NOT dress you up.

Maddie: True but thankfully we have Amy who likes to go shopping with me.  She also makes sure I have my quarterly spa treatment.  Looking this good requires some work you know?

Maddie: Do you like cats better than me?

Me: No. 

Maddie: Am I not good enough for you? Am I too small? Does this harness make me look fat? Maybe I should go on a diet.

Me: What on earth are you talking about? Also, I am the one that is supposed to be asking the questions.

Maddie: You should stop talking. This article is about me.  The readers are yearning to learn more about me!  Pink is my favorite color which also happens to be my favorite musician. OMG!  I know how to push Marley's buttons but in the end, she is my bestie.  The verdict is still out on the other animals.  As long as they know I am the queen, life is good for them.  I am a lioness, hear me roar!

Maddie: Most importantly, I am a daddy's girl.  I am very protective of you and you need rescuing from time to time from all the other animals.  It is also important that I be at your side at all times.  You need me, you really, really need me. Is that a wrap?  I have a blueberry facial scrub scheduled at 5 today.  

Me: Um, sure.  Thanks for your time today.

Maddie: TTYL, Totes Def!

Our Animal Herd: Katie

Katie was an unplanned pet. Bailey and I were doing just fine on our own, until one fall day I came home to find this fluffy thing had made herself comfy on the back deck. Having no idea if she belonged to anyone, I put some food out for her. (sucker!) Of course she continued to come back- climbing up a tree to reach my balcony and settling in on one of the chairs. It took a few weeks for her to feel comfortable around me, but eventually she let me come outside and sit with her. I had determined that she was one of the many feral cats in the neighborhood, and that it wouldn't hurt to at least make sure she had food and water.

Fall turned to winter, and when it actually got cold enough I started to feel sorry for the cat. I had just been calling her "kitty cat", and somehow kitty turned to Katie, and that's when I knew I was toast. Katie got to come inside one particularly cold night, and that was pretty much the end of her life as a feral. Luckily Bailey has always been really mellow, and didn't seem to mind the intruder. They had a peaceful first meeting, and have been co-existing ever since.

Katie is your typical cat, with maybe a few funny quirks here and there. She was not the most affectionate cat at first, and was happier laying somewhere in my general vicinity. For awhile I would just let her in at night, and she would typically find her way to my feet and snuggle. During the day I would let her out to roam around. But I began to worry about traffic and wild animals, and thought it would be safer to have her indoors all the time. She made the transition just fine, and now doesn't even think twice about wanting to go out.

When I made the decision to move into Hank's house, I was a little worried about how she would do with dogs. While her confidence had grown tremendously, I didn't want two small dogs to bring that crashing down. Katie held her own though, and quickly found her own spots around the house for lounging.

When not being lazy (and sitting in such ladylike positions), she likes to play her games on my iPad. Yes, I have cat games on my iPad- I am officially "that" kind of cat lady. Even if it's not one of her games, she swipes her paw against the screen and totally interrupts anything I might be doing on it. I draw the line at getting her own to play with.

For as independent as she often is, I was really taken back when I brought home two foster kittens, Bernard and Bess. I honestly thought Bailey would be the one with the most motherly instincts, but I was wrong. Katie took the most interest in the kittens, especially little Bernard the orange tabby. She would let him crawl all over her and snuggle, and would often go into the office to check on them. It was such a cute thing to watch. And since then, she has grown even more comfortable in our home, joining us on the couch, or always being somewhere close by. For a cat who wasn't really "planned", I'm glad to have her as part of our herd.

An Interview with Marley

Greetings! This is the other Holland again. As many of our readers know, we are animal crazy with our 3 dogs and 2 cats. They are such an important part of our life, online and offline, that we thought our readers should get to know each of them. Recently, I sat down for a chat with Marley, our beloved beagle.

Me: Marley, can you tell me how you first met your human?
Marley: I was living on a farm in Oklahoma with a bunch of other dogs like me. At the time, my brother and I were the only babies left. I knew the moment I laid eyes on you, you were a sucker....eh I mean a keeper. So I walked up to you and rolled over on your foot so you could rub my belly. I
snuggled in your lap all the way to my new home.

Me: Was that your best day?
Marley: It was my worst and best. The worst because I had to leave my brother. The best because I had my forever home.  
Me: What are some of.. 
Marley: Actually one of my best days was the day you brought home Amy. She, well not really her, but because of her I have an endless supply of cat nuggets and you know how I love to eat. 
Me: Marley, that is cat poop. 
Marley: It is heaven in a box is what it is!
Me: You disgust me.
Marley: I lick your face while you are sleeping. Next question please.

Me: What are some things that you would like our readers to know about you?
Marley: First, I am a loyal friend. I have followed you from Oklahoma to this hotter than sh%$ place we call home.
Me: Watch your language
Marley: Sorry but I swear my butt is sweating it is so hot. Second, I am a free spirit. I like to be left alone but when I want or need attention, I know how to ask for it. I am a quiet soul that has learned to take things in stride. New dog in the house, no problem. New cat(s), no problem. Another new dog, I hate you--kidding! I enjoy my time with my humans, whether it's a walk around the neighborhood or snuggle time. While I may be a bit older, I still like to snuggle just like I did on that first day.

Me: Yes you do Marley girl. Any faults?
Marley: I can often be described as strong willed...
Me: I call that stubborn.
Marley: Whatever, anyway I am strong willed and I see no fault in that now that I think about it.
Me: Thanks Marley! Any last words to our readers?
Marley: Ice cream is best served chilled, cat nuggets are a gift, vegetables on a vine taste best and love is curling up with the ones you adore particularly when they have beer or wine for me to steal, I mean taste.

An aside from the author:
I could not have asked for a better furry companion than Marley.  She is incredibly sweet to all she meets, a loyal furry companion, although stubborn at times.  Most importantly, she has the ability to love unconditionally, regardless of what other furry animals enter our our home.  While she may have to share the spotlight at times, she holds a very, very special place in my heart.  

Our Animal Herd: Bailey

It's animal week at The Holland House. You've read some stories about our animals before, but we thought we'd dedicate one day a week to each of our "girls", and how they came to be a part of our family.

Many many years ago while in college, I was sitting around my apartment one night when I heard this pathetic meowing coming from the front door. I opened it to find the scrawniest cat with the biggest bug eyes, just meowing her little head off for food/attention. She immediately started rubbing against my legs and walked right on in. Not knowing if my roommate would be ok with this new addition, I fed the cat a little lunchmeat and sent her on her way so that I could make an informed decision about keeping the scrawny thing. Roommate said yes, and we decided that if the cat showed up again the next night, we'd let her in. Of course she showed up, and happily waltzed right in when I opened the door for her.

(I guess I should have prefaced by saying that we always had cats growing up, and all of them were rescued from the streets, so I didn't hesitate at all about taking one in.)

I named her Bailey because Party of Five was popular at the time (man am I dating myself). My best guess is that she was around 1, and had likely been abandoned by another resident at the apartment complex. She was just as sweet as could be, was litter box trained, and desperate for affection. You could not sit/stand/sleep without her wanting to be on top of you. But I loved her for it, and she has been right there by my side through thick and thin.

She gained weight quickly and has been in relatively good health ever since (minus her current thyroid problem). In fact, she went from scrawny to fat in no time, and was the butt of many family jokes for awhile. She also gained many fans, as my family grew to love her quickly, as did anyone else who came by to visit.

Bailey was perfectly fine being an only cat, but the sucker in me decided to take in another stray at a different apartment just a few years ago. Bailey welcomed the new cat into the apartment and while they mostly get along, they have their "sisterly moments" too.

Working out their differences over a spot on the couch.

More like a dog than a cat, she prefers to be by people and will follow you almost anywhere. She's also known for being a little mischievous, and will do just about anything to get some treats (including jumping up on the kitchen counter to get ahold of the treat bag), or joining with the dogs when treats are being handed out.

The transition of moving into Hank's home with two dogs was an easy one for her, and she asserted her "alpha cat" as much as possible, though it's a constant battle between Bailey and Maddie the Peekapoo.  She has been able to hold her own through countless foster dogs and kittens, and now the permanent addition of a puppy. She even reluctantly played surrogate mom to her own mini-me, foster kitten Bess. In her golden years though, she prefers to sleep. Aside from food, naps are her most favorite thing.

At an estimated 14 years of age now, she's lived a really great life. I can only hope that she has a few more good years left in her, because the thought of saying goodbye to her breaks my heart. I know that I'll need to be prepared for that at some point, but until then I'll keep spoiling her with treats and snuggles as much as she wants. She's brought so much love into my life, and has been there with me through some pretty rough times. I'm so grateful that she picked me on that one fateful night.