TGIF...again

Another busy work week has precluded Brian and I from posting this week. Here's a quick rundown of interesting links and happenings:

• Listening right now to a segment on NPR's Day To Day, "Kids and Vegetarians." Dr. Sydney Spiesel, who is interviewed, seems to think vegetarian diets are just fine for kids...as long as the diets are lacto-ovo and not entirely vegan. While not entirely anti-vegan, he does lay out some precautions for the parents of children considering this diet. This is something I think about in terms of my future children. Will they be vegetarian? Mostly vegetarian? Eating chicken? I can't imagine denying them the joys of a good grilled cheese sandwich (mostly because I cannot deny myself). All stuff I'm only just beginning to clear brain space to think about.
• Tonight, Brian and I will be heading into the city to see Neko Case at Summerstage. We both cannot wait. I've loved Neko Case's music for years and since we've started dating, I've gotten Brian hooked to her as well. This is my first time seeing her. And it's a free show. Doesn't get more perfect that that.
• While I haven't been able to schedule in posting time here, I have been able to briefly glance at some very good blogs. The Urban Vegan follows a Philly resident in her meals and travels. She's featured some really amazing looking desserts that I'm looking forward to trying, like Coconut Pie made with cashews, coconut cream, and a drizzling of chocolate ganache. There's also vegan Nutella, which I have to make for Nutella-virgin Brian. If it's anywhere near the ambrosia that is the original Nutella, life will be worth living. Straight From the Farm is all about utilizing the goodies that can be found in Philadelphia's Weaver's Way Co-op, which Brian took me to in June. The blog includes many recipes, gorgeous photographs, and coverage of many Philly food- and farm-related events. Tropical Vegetarian Family displays the meals of one vegan family in Puerto Rico. I long believed that being Puerto Rican meant it would be nearly impossible to live without the undeniably delicious pernil--roasted pork--but, so far, I have been able to resist. My grandfather made the best pernil and, sadly, since he isn't around anymore, it'll be that much easier to pass on the pork. But Tropical Vegetarian Family shows that is possible to make great Puerto Rican dishes without meat, poultry, or dairy. I mean, we do love our plaintains and rice and beans so it really isn't that hard.