Russell Stover's Colorado Springs Store Has Closed - 12/28/2014

Hello, everyone.  After work on the day after Christmas, I went to Russell Stover's store in Colorado Springs thinking that I would get some good deals on Christmas candy.  I come to find out that the location has closed and the only store in Colorado is in Montrose, CO.  What a disappointment to say the least.

You almost always hear of business's grand openings but hardly ever hear of a business's closing.  This closing was out of the blue.  Now, I have to order candy for Valentine's Day online, go to Montrose, CO or make alternate plans.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

PB&J Thincake Portable Pancakes - 12/27/2014

Hello, everyone.  This morning, I made PB&J Thincake portable pancakes.  I took a 59 cent package of complete pancake mix I got at King Soopers, added 1 1/2 cups of Martinelli's apple juice instead of 1 cup of water to make the Thincake (thin pancake) batter.  I used a 1/3 cup measuring cup to pour the batter lengthwise to make a long rectangular thin pancake like this:

I then put peanut butter and jelly on it like this:

I rolled it up and enjoyed it.  I hope you will enjoy this as a quick make ahead weekday breakfast.  I'm available for radio and TV appearances.  Contact me by e-mail at mikea1@earthlink.net  That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

One Meal Into Three Meals - 12/25/2014

Merry Christmas, everyone.  I know you all have some leftover food from your holiday meal. I want to see if you make a single serving meal into three meals. After the Holidays are done, it's tax season.  It's time to stretch that dollar like it's rubber.  Please send me how you would take one meal and make into three meals.  I'll post them to my blog. Good luck out there. Leave no food to waste.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Grilled Rice Pudding Burritos - 12/21/2014

Hello, everyone.  I was bored at breakfast this morning.  I had flour tortillas, cinnamon, a single serve cup of rice pudding and Coronado goat milk caramel spread.  So, I made grilled rice pudding burritos.

I microwaved one flour tortilla with half of the rice pudding and sprinkled a 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon on it for about 30 seconds.  After I got that out of the microwave, I topped it with the Coronado goat milk caramel spread.  I wrapped it up and grilled it in a frying pan.  I made 2 of these today.  Here is a picture of them.

This was messy eating, but, it was good.  If I make this again, I'll go with 1/3 of the rice pudding on each tortilla and get smaller tortillas.  Or, I could make this into rice pudding tacos with corn tortillas and sprinkle the corn tortillas with cinnamon. That's it for this post.  Until my next blog post, have a great day.

Rescued Dinner - 12/20/2014

Hello, everyone.  Earlier this month, I was a volunteer at a fundraising dinner for Seeds Community Cafe & Colorado Springs Food Rescue.  I had dinner during some down time.  All the food that was served that night would have been just thrown away but was rescued from the landfill.  Here is a picture of my dinner that night. It was steak, chicken marsala, roasted potatoes and roasted squash.

Perfectly good food rescued from being thrown away. It's not the availability of food that is a problem in the U.S., it's the distribution of food to those who can't afford food.  Just a thought for you to think about.  That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Homemade AM Crunchwrap - 12/17/2014

Hello.  Last night, I decided to make my own version of Taco Bell's AM Crunchwrap.  I did this without the eggs. I took a hash brown patty that I microwaved and placed it on a warmed tortilla.  Then, I took a sausage patty that I bought at Jack In The Box for 54 cents and put that on top of the hash brown patty.  I topped both with cheddar cheese and a mild salsa.  I folded the tortilla like a crunchwrap and pan fried it on both side for 2 to 3 minutes.

That cost me about $1.50 to make.  These days, you have to stretch your dollars like they are rubber.  That's all for this post.  Until my next blog post, have a great day.

King's Hawaiian Vegan French Toast - 12/13/2014

Hello.  Today, I visited Wal-Mart in Colorado Springs, CO. I saw a loaf of King's Hawaiian sliced bread for about $4.00 and bought it to try it out. I had some Martinelli's Apple Juice at home & decided to put the two together.

I took one slice of the King's Hawaiian sliced bread, soaked it in 1/4 cup of Martinelli's Apple Juice with 1/2 a teaspoon of cinnamon.  I pan fried it for about 2-4 minutes a side. I had it with pure maple syrup. I didn't use butter on it so I could keep it vegan.  Here is a picture of the french toast.

If I were to cook for other people, I think I would get requests to make this.  That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

The Grilly D Donut - 12/7/2014

Hello.  When I was at Glazed N Confuzed on November 29, I had their Gilly D donut.  This was a glazed donut that was placed on the grill.  It was good.  I had to fork and knife this one.  Here is a picture of that donut.

You can see the char marks on it.  This is best when it's still warm. That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Srirachamacallit Donut - 12/6/2014

Hello.  Today's post is about the Srirachamacallit donut from Glazed & Confused in Denver, CO.  This donut has a sweet glaze on top with a few peanuts.  It is filled with a sriracha infused cream cheese filling.  This is a savory filling.  It is very hot.  If there were pieces of candied jalapenos in there, it would kick the sweet heat up a notch. Here is a picture of it.

Enjoy this donut with a cold glass of milk to calm down this heat.  That is all for this post.  Until my next blog post, have a great day.

Cherry Peary Cobbler Donut - 12/3/2014

Hello.  This post is about the Cherry Peary Cobbler donut from Glazed N Confuzed in Denver, CO.  This is a top filled donut and not a side filled donut.  This is filled with dried cherries, pear compote with a streusel topping and a drizzled glaze.  Here is a picture of the one I had before I ate it.

 

I ate this with a fork as to not mess up my shirt.  I suggest to eat this warmed up. and put some butter on top of it.  

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Oh My Pecan Pie Donut - 12/2/2014

Hello.  Today, I'm having an Oh My Pecan Pie donut from Glazed & Confused in Denver, CO.  It's a donut with a sweet slow cooked pecan pie glaze topped with sweet salty pecan pieces.  If I could drizzle this with chocolate sauce, I would.  Here's a picture of this donut.

I hope you can stop by there and pick up this and more.  This would go great with a flavored coffee or hot cocoa drink.  That's all for this blog post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Confuzed Samoa - 12/1/2014

Hello, everyone. Today's Glazed and Confused doughnut is the Confuzed Samoa. It's a caramel glaze with toasted coconut and a rich chocolate drizzle.  This should remind you of those famous Girl Scout cookies.

Here is the picture of it.

That's it for this post. Until my next post, have a great day.

Breaking Banana Bread Doughnut - 11/30/2014

Hello, everyone. I am back in Colorado Springs from a day trip to Denver yesterday.  This morning, I'm having some chai tea with a Breaking Banana Bread Doughnut from Glazed & Confused.  It's a banana bread doughnut with a creamy caramel glaze with chocolate chips & Mediterranean Sea Salt. It's a denser doughnut from your traditional cake doughnuts. Eat this doughnut slowly.  You can hardly see the sea salt. When you bite into the doughnut, you will notice it.  Here is a picture of it by itself.

Glazed & Confused is located at 5301 Leetsdale Ave. in Denver. They are open from 6am-2pm Tuesdays through Saturdays.  When you visit Denver, this is a must visit.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

My Trip To Glazed & Confused In Denver - 11/29/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, I decided to take a day trip to Denver, CO.   When I got off the Greyhound, I took the 83L RTD bus to Glazed & Confused.  I had the Grilly D grilled doughnut.  I used a fork and knife for this one.   I also got a Pumpkin Pie Puffynutz cronut.  Here is a picture of me at Glazed and Confused today.

When you're in the Denver metro area, please stop on by.  It's a great place for unique doughnuts.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Prices On The Rise Before The Holidays - 11/22/2014

Hello everyone.  I went out for breakfast at McDonald's and got sticker shocked again.  The Sausage McMuffin, Sausage Biscuit and Hash Browns went from $1 to $1.19 plus tax.  I think that this is a pre-emptive price hike due to the minimum wage hike from $8 an hour to $8.23 per hour in Colorado effective New Year's Day 2015.  Also, at the nearby Starbuck's, the price of a tall iced coffee with milk went up 30 cents from $1.95 to $2.25 plus tax.

This is a good time to stock on your favorite foods before the prices go up with the coming of the new year.  Also, it is a good idea to buy items in bulk again.  Portion out your meals and economize.

That's it for this post.  Until my next blog post, have a good day.

Chicken Waffle Tacos - 11/21/2014

Hello, everyone. Last night for dinner, I made Chicken Waffle Tacos.  I purchased a side of 2 waffles from Jack In The Box and put it together with 2 chicken strips, shredded cheese and some of my BBQ Maple Syrup Sauce I made a few nights ago.  This is the finished product.

I hope one day to go on KUSA in Denver to make them. Of course, Belen De Leon would want them. That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

BBQ Maple Syrup Sauce - 11/18/2014

Hello, everyone. Today, I made a BBQ Maple Syrup Sauce for Chicken Waffle Tacos.  I combined equal parts of Rudy's BBQ "Sissy Sauce" with pure maple syrup.  Pancake syrup will never do. It's pure maple syrup or nothing.  Add more BBQ sauce for a more savory flavor or add more maple syrup for a more sweet flavor.  Here is a picture of the finished product.

Try it on your Chicken Waffle Tacos or any other dish that you so desire.  I believe that CBS Denver would say that I am being mean with this sauce. That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day and happy eating.

The DougMcMuffin Breakfast Sandwich - 11/9/2014

Hello again. A few weeks ago, I made a new breakfast sandwich. It is called the DougMcMuffin Sandwich in honor of Doug Meehan on 12 News in Phoenix, AZ.   It has a sausage patty, a slice of cheese and a 2 to 3 oz. portion of chopped beef brisket in BBQ sauce.  Here is a picture of that breakfast sandwich.

This breakfast sandwich goes out to all you meat eaters out there. Doug Meehan said that he is not worthy of such a sandwich.  I don't know what Emma Jade would think of this.  All I can hashtag is: #CheeseNMeat.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, happy eating and have a great day.

Spicy Maya S'mores - 11/8/2014

Hello, everyone. It is the season again for cold weather.  I thought of making a new twist to traditional S'mores. Instead of using Hershey's Milk Chocolate as is tradition, I went instead with a Spicy Maya Chocopod mini Chocolate bar from Chuao Chocolatier.  It's 50 calories and has ground pasilla chile and cayenne pepper.  When I had that S'mores, it warmed me up inside and had a pleasant flavor.  I showed a picture of it to the CBS station in Denver, CO.  I must have made them jealous.  Here is a picture of me holding the Spicy Maya S'mores.

I hope that you can enjoy this warming treat this winter.  It is warmth for the heart, body and soul.  That's it for this post. Until my next post, have a great day.

Would You Eat A Cheeseburger-Stuffed Doughnut? - 10/24/2014

Hello, everyone.  I saw an article today where a burger joint makes a cheeseburger-stuffed doughnut.  To me, the filling looks like it's cheeseburger macaroni Hamburger Helper.  Would you eat such a filled doughnut?  Here's the link to the article. Cheeseburger-Stuffed Doughnut. 

In other news, I'll be working on some holiday recipes during Nov. and Dec.  More details to come.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Twig & Berries Cupcake - 10/14/2014

Hello there.  Last week, I had the chance to visit the Cupcake Girls store in Colorado Springs, CO.  I had ordered the Twig & Berries cupcake. This is a wholesome fig & fresh pomegranate cupcake topped with a pomegranate infused cream cheese frosting.  Here is a picture of it.

The cost for this cupcake is $2.75 plus tax.  Please visit their website at Cupcake Girls  That's it for this post. Until my next post, have a great day.

Taco Bell's Country AM Crunchwrap - 10/9/2014

Hello, everyone. Today, I had the privilege of having Taco Bell's new Country AM Crunchwrap.  It's a sausage patty, hash browns, scrambled eggs, cheese and sausage gravy wrapped and grilled like a regular Crunchwrap.

The gravy was just the right amount to compliment the rest of the ingredients. The taste was mild and pretty good.  The price of it ala cart is $2.79.  The combo is $4.49 plus tax.  Sales tax varies per area. El Paso County in Colorado has a 7.63% sales tax.

Taco Bell started selling this item today.  Go and try it.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a good day.

PB&Jellies Out of Downtown COS - 9/13/2014

Hello there. I was in Downtown Colorado Springs, CO today. I walked by the PB&Jellies NY Deli. There was a lady outside scraping the paint from the front window.  I asked her why she was doing that. She told me that the location is closing.  She also said that the only PB&Jellies location is at the Chapel Hills Mall. The Downtown area of Colorado Springs isn't booming as it used to be. It's sad to see it go.

I liked the Sabrett Hot Dogs served with a half sour pickle.  The location will be up for lease soon.  In other news, I noticed that there will be a Jersey Mike's Subs location opening soon on Garden Of The Gods Rd.  It's in the small strip mall where Dickey's BBQ pit is.

It looks like now people will have to go to Whole Foods to get freshly ground peanut butter and add in their own mix-ins to create their own special peanut butters. Will people also grind their own Sunflower Seed Butter?  Time will tell.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Pumpkin Spice Oreos Coming Soon - 9/10/2014

Hello.  I saw a Tweet today that Pumpkin Spice Oreos are coming soon. What are your feelings about this flavor?  Would you try them?  What flavor of Oreos do you want to see next? Should these Pumpkin Spice Oreos come in Gluten Free as well?  Please leave a comment on this. I look forward to read them.

That's it for this post. Until my next post, have a great day!

Hot Cocoa Pancakes - 8/30/2014

Hello, everyone.  This is 100th post for this blog. Today, I made Hot Cocoa Pancakes.

I took a small package of complete pancake mix, mixed in 2 teaspoons of Mexican Cocoa powder from the Savory Spice Shop,  a half teaspoon of Black Onyx Chocolate sugar and 2 cups of prepared hot cocoa.  One cup of the hot cocoa didn't give me the consistency that I was looking for.

I stirred the batter and fried up the pancakes.  This is a picture of the finished product. The cost of making 3 servings is: $1-$2

When I was frying the pancakes up, they smelled just like hot cocoa.  Maybe the next time I make them, I can top them with slightly melted marshmallows.  If I did that, women will think that I'm being naughty.

That's it for this post. Happy Labor Day to all that celebrate.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Strawberry Clam - 8/29/2014

Hello, everyone.  On Wednesday, August 27, I was at Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO. volunteering for a catering event.  I had some down time. I saw that there were grapes and strawberries that were not being utilized at the time.  So, I made a strawberry clam.  I sliced the top off of the strawberry. I then placed the strawberry cut side down.  I made a criss cross cut of the strawberry. I opened it up and placed a grape in it. The grape looked like a pearl inside a clam.  Hence the name, Strawberry Clam.  Here is a picture of it.

If I had put ice cream or chocolate instead of the grape, some ladies (including Kathie J from the "Everyday" Show on KDVR Fox 31 in Denver) would think I'm naughty.  If I had this at work, I would have to lock it up.  That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Parfait Your Day - 8/26/2014

Hello, everyone. Here is a quick and easy breakfast.  It's a yogurt, fruit and granola parfait.

I took a bowl and layered banana cream pie yogurt with blueberries and french vanilla granola. Here is the picture of it.

What a treat!  It's pretty good.  I hope that KDVR in Denver won't come to my house for breakfast. That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Jake's Wayback Burgers In Colorado Springs Is Gone - 8/25/2014

Hello, everyone. It is with sadness that I report that Jake's Wayback Burgers in Colorado Springs, CO has now closed.  I went by the store and the signs have been taken down.  Their website no longer lists any Colorado locations.

What was their downfall?  Is it that their burgers were too expensive?  Was it their bad location inside the Woodman Valley Shopping Center?  We may never know.  If I could recreate their food, I would.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Togo's Sandwiches Replaces ButterCup Froyo In COS - 8/22/2014

Hello, everyone.  I was walking in Downtown Colorado Springs, CO. yesterday and saw a sign saying Togo's Sandwiches coming soon at the old ButterCup Frozen Yogurt location on S. Tejon St.  Is frozen yogurt going out of style?

Rents for commercial properties are skyrocketing.  More expensive sandwiches are on their way.  How about this idea?  How about a community kitchen where you cook your own meal with select ingredients and have lunch at a lower cost?  Americans like their food cheap. If the food is cheap, then that says something about our choice of the quality of our food that we want.  What is the cost of quality?  Shop and eat local.  Local is good for you.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Mashed Banana Pancakes - 8/18/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, while having breakfast, I saw the remainder of my bananas  (5) that I got last week at one of the food pantries was almost ready to toss into the trash.  I decided that I didn't want to waste the bananas.  So, I came up with a recipe for Mashed Banana Pancakes.  Here is what I had on hand.

5 bananas that were mashed in a bowl
3/4 of a cup to 1 cup of All Purpose Flour
1/4 to 1/2 cup of canola oil for frying
Spiced Vanilla Bean Sugar & Pumpkin Pie Spice
(Spices courtesy of Savory Spice Shop)

I placed the flour on the plate and mixed the spiced vanilla bean sugar and pumpkin pie spice into the flour.  Then, I placed the mashed bananas that I had in a bowl into the flour/sugar & spice mixture.  I heated a frying pan and placed some of the oil for frying up the pancakes.  I took two to three spoonfuls of the batter for each pancake and placed them into the frying pan.  It takes longer for these pancakes to cook because it is a thicker batter than your regular buttermilk pancakes.  It took me 4 to 5 minutes to cook on each side to get the doneness that I was looking for.

After cooking each pancake, I placed them on a paper towel lined plate to soak up the excess oil.  This is a picture of my finished product.

It is more mashed banana than flour.  You can substitute gluten free flour instead of the all purpose flour to make it a gluten free dish. This plate would serve about 3 to 4 people.  Accompany this with more fresh fruit, whipped cream and maple syrup (Not that corn syrup want to be pancake syrup).

That's it for this blog post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Potato Sales Are Down - 8/13/2014

Hello, everyone.  I recently read in the Wall Street Journal that potato sales are down.  It's because of the fear of carbs and people are cooking less and less due to time constraints.  Is cooking not convenient anymore?  That issue could be a blog post on its own.

On a recent trip to my local King Soopers store, I saw a 5 lb. bag of potatoes on Manager's Special for 99 cents. "Manager's Special" is code for "Reduced price for quick sale before it goes bad or its our loss on profit".  I walked by French Fry Heaven in Colorado Springs, CO recently and saw they were selling their basic size of french fries for $3 plus tax. That's "Tourist Trapper" prices. Heck, I can buy (3) 2 lbs. of shoestring french fries at Dollar Tree for that same price without the tax.

Once your money is spent, it's gone and nary a return on investment. Stretch that bacon that you bring home.

That's it for this post. Set aside some food for those in need. Remember, need knows no season.  Until next blog post, have a great day.

Seeds Community Cafe Closed on Saturdays - 8/9/2014

Hello, everyone. I just wanted to let you all know that Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO. is now closed on Saturdays.  I'm sad to hear about this.  I hope that there can be more support so they can re-open on Saturdays in the future.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a good day.

National Root Beer Float Day - 8/5/2014

Hello.  August 6, 2014 is National Root Beer Float Day. At A&W Restaurants from 2pm to close local time, you can get a small root beer float. Donations will be taken for the Wounded Warrior Project.  Your donations are appreciated.

Send me a picture of your root beer floats.  Send them to my Twitter account: @uniquelymike.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Skyline Chili In Colorado - 8/3/2014

Hello, everyone.  I was at King Soopers today in Colorado Springs, CO.  I finally found Skyline Chili on the store shelves.  It's $3.99 a can & 20 cents off with your King Soopers/City Market card.  Now, I don't have to mail order for it or fly to Cincinnati for it.

I can now have my 3-way for dinner and Coneys. Chili Cheese Fries will be on the menu very soon for my dinner.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Vanilla Chai Tea Blueberry Compote - 7/29/2014

Hello again.  I was bored after dinner and decided to make something new.  It's called Vanilla Chai Tea Blueberry Compote.  I had a 1/2 cup of frozen blueberries and a cup of brewed vanilla chai tea.  I put them together in a saucepan and reduced it by half.  It turned out well.  I put some of the infused blueberries with some ice cream and they were great.  I reserved the rest for pancakes later in the week.  Here's a picture of it in the saucepan.

I added a 1/4 cup of sugar for sweetness.  Try it sometime.  If you do make this, leave me a comment on it.

That's all for this blog post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Eat Your French Fries With A Fork - 7/28/2014

Hello.  Last week, I was sitting at a bus stop in the northern part of Colorado Springs, CO. There was a lady who was sitting at the bus stop putting about 10 medium sized french fries in her mouth (read Pie-Hole).  I think she was in her early 20s.  She kept stuffing and stuffing her mouth with large amounts of french fries.  The amount of french fries I saw her eating could have fed about three people.  Her hands looked like they were covered in oil.  I think that is unsanitary to say the least. She could have spared me the pain by eating them in a restaurant or in the privacy of her home.

So, if you're going to eat french fries, eat them with a fork. BTW, mix in some portion control.  If I could have only videotaped that scene.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

July Suspended Coffee In COS Update - 7/24/2014

Hello there.  Here's a July 2014 update on the Suspended Coffee program at Gold Hill Java in Downtown Colorado Springs, CO.  As of the last time I visited Gold Hill Java Downtown, the suspended coffee fund is up to $10.82.  Pay it forward, Colorado Springs.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Cheap Chicken Tuesday - 7/22/2014

Hello.  Today is Tuesday.  That is Cheap Chicken Tuesday at Popeye's.  A 2 piece leg and thigh is only $1.09 plus tax in Colorado Springs, CO. In San Diego, CA., it's $1.49 and it's only 99 cents plus tax in Las Vegas, Nevada.

I waited just about a minute in line to order. I ordered two of the 2 piece specials mild. It took me 15 minutes to get my order. When food is cheap, there is a competition between people to get the limited amount of chicken for their meals.  Cheaper's Creepers!

How long would you wait for your fried chicken?  Let me know.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Tiny Chocolates - 7/16/2014

Hello, everyone.  With the announcement from the Hershey Company price increase on their product line, it's time to rethink how you buy your chocolate candy.

     I would try to buy less chocolate. Instead of buying a regular candy bar, why not try just buying tasting chocolate squares?  It's just one or two bites. They are usually $1 and under.  I like that concept.  I feel that children will get used to mini chocolate bars.  If they want more, they will be more industrious.  I bet that your kids will work for chocolate.

I am considering changing my chocolate in my chocolate sauce for the ChocoChurro Bites.  Instead of using a Hershey's Special Dark bar, I'll use two Chuao Chocolatier Spicy Maya mini bars.  I know that Belen De Leon from 9 News in Denver, CO still wants to try them.

That's it for this blog post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Dessert Tray From Seeds Community Cafe - 7/15/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, I would like to tell you about dessert trays from Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO.  Here's a picture of it from an event on 7/12/2014.

This tray has macaroons, mini cheesecakes in regular and peanut butter, lemon bars, raspberry bars, maple fudge, mint brownies, chocolate brownies and vegan graham crackers (the stars you see on the tray). Strawberries garnish the tray.

For more information on this dessert tray and ordering, contact Seeds Community Cafe on their website: Seeds Community Cafe . This would be great for any occasion.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

NOLA Philly Cheesesteak - 7/12/2014

Hello.  A few weeks ago, I had lunch at Seeds Community Cafe.  For lunch, I had the NOLA Philly Cheesesteak. It's marinated steak with peppers, onions and cheese.  Here's a picture of what I had before I ate it.

Doesn't that look good?  This entree, when on the menu, is sure to sell out quick.  Why not come and try this or any other of their entrees with a soup or salad and help out the community?  How about special ordering a few of these for a boxed lunch?  If you are visiting Colorado Springs, CO anytime soon, please visit Seeds Community Cafe for lunch.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Doritos Loaded.- 7/9/2014

Hello, everyone.  I recently went by a 7/11 store in Colorado Springs, CO. I saw that they are selling Doritos Loaded cheese sticks.  Does that sound right?  Here's a picture of them on an outdoor sign.

Would you eat that?  It's just a Doritos spiced cheese stick.  6 for $1.99 plus tax.  Is it worth it?  You decide.

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

Ruby Roman Grapes Go For $5500 - 7/6/2014

Hello.  Today, I saw a story about one bunch of Japan's Ruby Roman Grapes that was auctioned off.  The winning bid was US$ 5,500.  Isn't that incredible?  Here's a picture of that bunch of grapes.

How much would you pay for these grapes?  How much food could you buy for US$5,500?  

That's it for this post.  Until my next post, have a good day.

A Scoop Or A Pint - 7/4/2014

Hello.  Happy 4th of July to all of you in the United States of America.

I went to the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs today.  I sat on a bench by an ice cream shop.  I saw people get $4 scoops of ice cream.  That is not economical.  How about just going to the local grocery store about a mile out and get a pint of ice cream?  The store brand is cheaper than a $4 scoop of ice cream.  I would even dare to say that the vegan non dairy frozen desserts are cheaper than one single scoop of ice cream at that ice cream shop.

Remember, once your money is gone, it's probably gone for good.

That's all for this post. Until my next post, have a safe 4th of July.

Would You Drink A 8 Oz. Can Of Beer? - 6/30/2014

Hello.  With the reduction of product size in full effect, how would you feel if cans of beer went down from 12 oz. to 8 oz.?  Soft drinks cans have gone from 12 oz. to 8 oz. Why would beer be the same?

Would a smaller can of beer cause more or less drinking?  It would take up less shelf space at your local store.  Would it cause more people to reduce their alcohol consumption if beer were in a smaller can?

Remember, your own personal consumption decisions do in fact have an effect on me and other people.  We as human beings are interconnected.  Think about it?

Until next post, have a great day.

Frozen Fruit Pie Or A Candy Bar - 6/18/2014

Hello there.  I went to King Soopers yesterday. I bought a frozen Banquet fruit pie instead of a candy bar.  The price for the fruit pie was 79 cents and the candy bar was 99 cents.  Prices aren't what they used to be.
Which would you buy for yourself or your family? Would you buy a frozen fruit pie or a candy bar?  You're the consumer. Decide what is best for you and/or your family.  Other people are counting on that decision.

Fast Food Soda Or 2 Liter? - 6/16/2014

Hello.  Do you buy soft drinks at fast food restaurants?  They cost about double the 2 liter sodas you see in your grocery stores.  I would rather buy the 2 liter at the grocery store than buy a fast food soda that costs about $2.00.

In this economy, I feel that soda sales at fast food restaurants should be falling.  Any thoughts on this?  Until my next post, have a good day.

Breakfast Monster Taco - 6/14/2014

Hello again.  I went to Jack In The Box in Colorado Springs, CO. and found that they are serving a breakfast monster taco.  It's just like the regular lunch/dinner monster taco but with scrambled eggs instead of the lettuce.  It has 324 calories and 191 calories from fat.  You can check out the picture on the Jack In The Box website.

Let me know what you think of it.  Would you try one of those?  I bet some ladies wouldn't try it. How about slicing two or three of those in half and putting nacho cheese sauce on them and have breakfast monster taco nachos?  It's worth a try.

That's it for this blog post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Fundraising For School Meals - 6/13/2014

Hello there.  Schools across the U.S. are ending their school year soon.  That means it's time to fundraise for your child's school meals.  Even if you don't have a child in school, you should consider fundraising for your friend's children's meals.  Need knows no season.

Here are some ideas for fundraising for children's school meals for the Fall. Recycle your cans & bottles. Have a yard sale.  Host a bake sale.  Hold a food auction.

Food costs are going up and up.  We, as consumers, have those rising costs passed onto us.  It's like the school districts and their food service programs want to be "Nimby Quimbys".  Grow your own food, people.

That's all for this post.  Until my next post, have a great day.

26 Cents Short - 6/12/2014

Hello.  Here we go again. Another school lunch being thrown away because of lack of money. This time, a middle school student in Kent, Washington had their lunch thrown away because their lunch card was 26 cents short.  That student's father got angry and rightfully so. The school handled it the wrong way.  They admitted the way the situation was handled was wrong.  Fix It!

What about No Child Left Hungry?  It didn't work in this instance.  It looks like there should be fundraisers for food during the Summer break.  $2.80 for lunch and $0.50 for milk?  It's just better to buy a fast food sandwich and either a soda or milk.  That's even higher than Colorado Springs School District 11.

During the Summer Break, why don't you all fundraise for your child's meals?  Stretch that dollar like it's rubber.

I am accepting donations for Kent School District in Kent, Washington so this situation does not happen ever again.

Akron, Colorado Is A Food Desert - 6/11/2014

Hello. I was online yesterday and saw a report on KMGH TV in Denver.  It was about Akron, Colorado being a food desert. The only grocery store in Akron had bare shelves.  This shouldn't be happening in the United States of America.  It is indeed sad. The nearest grocery store is about 25 miles away.

If anyone in Colorado is going to help Akron, CO not be a food desert, let me know.  Here's a picture of the store shelves courtesy of KMGH-TV in Denver, CO.

Will this be your grocery store?  I hope not.  Let's help the people of Akron, Colorado with food.

That's it for this post. Until next post, have a good day.

Doughnut Or Pancake Mix? - 6/9/2014

Hello.  I was at King Soopers today. I saw a regular doughnut was 60 cents and a small store brand pancake mix at 59 cents. It got me thinking about this. Is it better to get a doughnut that is just one serving or the pancake mix that is at least 3 servings?  It is something to think about.  Pancakes can be dessert as well.  It is all in the preparation.

At least, you can add more ingredients to the pancakes than not for the doughnut.  If you have some frozen blueberries, you can add them to the batter and make the pancakes burst with flavor.  Or, spreading hazelnut spread between two pancakes.  There are so many ideas out there.  How about putting mini peanut butter cups onto pancakes?  How does that sound?

In other news I hope you had a nice National Doughnut Day last Friday.  If Brittney Bailey from KRDO had a doughnut named after her, it would be called BlueBarbie.  There will be more creations to come.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Orchard Ovens Bakery Update - 6/7/2014

Hello.  I was at the Farmer's Market at Bancroft Park in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs, CO. I found that Orchard Ovens Bakery had a booth there.  They are now baking their goods at home in Manitou Springs, CO.  The reason for closing their Downtown location was not enough business to keep the shop open.  Now, if they could just do breakfast burritos at their farmer's Market booth, that would be a bonus.  They also have a booth at the Farmer's Market up in Woodland Park, CO. in Teller County.  I saw the pies there for $10.  I'll have to save up some money for one of those pies.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Name Doughnuts After TV Anchors - 6/5/2014

Hello. Tomorrow is National Doughnut Day. It is the first Friday of June.  I was watching KDVR this morning online and came up with some doughnut ideas in honor of the anchors of Good Day Colorado.

Kirk Yuhnke's Doughnut would be called, "Kirk's Kickin' Raspberry Whiskey Chipotle" It's a jelly filled doughnut filled with Raspberry Whiskey Chipotle jelly from Puff's Preserves.

Brooke Wagner's Doughnut would be called, "Brooke's Bourbon Bump". It's a jelly filled doughnut filled with Blackberry Bourbon Lavender jelly.

Shanna Mendiola's Doughnut would be called, "Shanna's Strawberry Sizzle". It's a jelly filled doughnut filled with Strawberry Champagne Mint jelly.

And, last but not least, Ken Clark's Doughnut would be called, "Ken's Karma Krunch". It's a caramel filled doughnut with Nestle's Crunch chocolate.

I had fun coming up with the names of these doughnuts. If I make them one day, I'll let you know.  If you have names of doughnuts for your local TV anchors, let me know.  Until next post have a great day.

Cinnamon Spiced Vanilla Bean Sugar Fries - 6/3/2014

Hello, everyone.  I was bored and didn't buy dessert tonight.  So, I decided to make some Cinnamon Spiced Vanilla Bean Sugar Fries.

I took shoestring fries, fried them in extra virgin olive oil. I slightly drained them. In a separate cup, I mixed equal amounts of cinnamon and spiced vanilla bean sugar that I got from Savory Spice Shop and tossed it with the fresh french fries.  Here's a picture of it.

It was very good and not too sweet.  You wish you could have been here seeing me make this.  It's quick and easy. It's all in the preparation.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Summer Garden Cooking Class - 6/2/2014

Hello.  Today's post is about a Summer Garden Cooking class that will be held at Savory Spice Shop in Colorado Springs, CO. on June 16th at 6:30pm. The instructor for that evening is Chef Lynn Harwell from Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO. The cost is $25 and proceeds from the class fee will be donated to Seeds Community Cafe.

The menu will include braised chicken with spinach and artichoke & a kale caesar salad.

I wish I could go but I don't have enough money to go.

You can donate to keep this blog going by clicking the donate button below.  Until next post, have a great day.

French Toast Casserole - 5/29/2014

Hello again.  Yesterday, I was at Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO.  I saw this item on the menu.  It's a french toast casserole.  It was so popular, it was sold out before the end of lunch.  It's not on the menu today. I hope you can call them and special order a whole french toast casserole. It's great for a weekend brunch.  

It is french baguettes that are soaked overnight in eggs, milk vanilla and cinnamon.  It's then baked and topped with blueberry sauce and lemon zest.  Here's a picture of it.

If this is not on the menu the day you visit Seeds Community Cafe, have it special ordered. I would suggest to give a 48 hour notice on this special item.  Seeds Community Cafe is closed on Sundays.  What do you think of this wonderful dish?  Have you had this yet?  If not, you should very, very soon.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Starbucks Test Marketing Coconut Milk - 5/27/2014

Hello, everyone.  I received a reply on a tweet from Starbucks stating that they are test marketing coconut milk in select stores in Ohio & Oregon.  What do you think of that?  Is it a good idea?

Would you want coconut milk added to your favorite Starbucks drink?  Would you switch from regular milk to coconut milk?  Let me know what you think. Please share your comments here.

Until next post, have a great day.

French Fry Heaven Coming To Colorado - 5/24/2014

Hello, everyone.  French Fry Heaven is coming to Colorado. In particular, Colorado Springs.  The location is 107 N. Tejon St. next to Venice Olive Oil Co.  It is slated to open in early July 2014.  You can find them on the web at frenchfryheaven.com  Download their printable menu.  Prepare your taste buds for this.

I spoke to the franchise owner yesterday and he hopes that a lot of you will come by and try it.  This will be the first location in the state of Colorado.  Just like there is only one Jake's WayBack Burgers location in Colorado. It is also in Colorado Springs.

That's it for this post.  Happy Memorial Day to everyone in the U.S.  Remember those who gave all for our freedom.  Until next post, have a great day.

Krispy Kreme Double Cheeseburger...Really - 5/23/2014

Hello, everyone.  It's time for your summer county and state fair season.  Today, I found out that a Krispy Kreme Double Cheeseburger is going to be sold at the San Diego County Fair. Here's the link to the picture of it. Krispy Kreme Double Cheeseburger Would you eat it?  Do you think that whoever sells this should have people sign a waiver like people do at certain chicken wing shops?

In other news, Bingo Burger will be opening in Colorado Springs, CO at the beginning of July.  Watch for more details on this blog.

I want to wish everyone in the United States of America and its territories a Happy Memorial Day.  Until next post, have a great day.

Lentil Swiss Chard Soup - 5/21/2014

Hello again.  Two days ago, I was at Seeds Community Cafe.  They had a lentil swiss chard soup for the vegan broth.  Here's a picture of it.

Their vegan broth and stone soup change almost daily.  Please call them to find out what their soups are for the day.  I would take my time eating this soup.  How about special ordering a gallon of this?  I know that your friends will love it.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Future Frozen Food: Mini Burger Patties - 5/17/2014

Hello, everyone.  As the price of beef is getting higher and higher, here is an idea for the next frozen food product.  How about frozen mini burger patties?  Just like the frozen 1/4 lb burger patties that you see in a pack of 10, it'll be in a pack of 20 or 30.  "Hey Honey, they shrunk my food"!  It's fiction to fact, folks.

Don't be surprised if you see more slider buns being produced by your local bakeries.  Or, how about breadstick burgers?  It'll happen sooner than later.  Don't be surprised either that more and more people will go vegetarian on either a part time or full time basis.

I heard on Divine Forces Radio in the mid-2000s on 90.7FM KPFK Los Angeles, CA. from Fidel Rodriguez this quote. "When you're living in poverty, you eat what you eat and what you can. But then a few years later...boom, you have cancer. Boom, you have this".  For teenagers in poor families, breakfast is Flamin' Hot Cheetos and Cup O' Soup.  That's not breakfast, that's junk.

Why is it that Wal-Mart gets the, 'new to market' foods before the Union stores get those items?  I believe it is the WalMartinization of the U.S.

That's it for this post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Roasted Acorn Squash Soup - 5/16/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, I went to Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO. for lunch.  I had a roasted acorn squash soup with my meal today.  This was made with local acorn squash, ginger, curry and coconut milk.  It was vegetarian, vegan & gluten free.  I had to enjoy the soup slowly as it was hot. A good cup of soup should be enjoyed in about 15 to 20 minutes.  I would add maple sugar or syrup to the soup.  Here's a picture of what was left of my soup before I ate the rest of it.

Don't worry, I cleaned my cup.  This is available from time to time.  I would suggest that you order it by the gallon.  It is that good.

That's it for today's blog post.  Until next post, have a great day.

Got Summer Foods For Your Kids, Colorado Springs? - 5/14/2014

Hello, everyone. In Colorado Springs, CO., the end of the school year is drawing near.  Parents, do have you enough food to feed your children this summer?  There are summer meal programs at select locations in the Colorado Springs area.  There are food pantries in Colorado Springs that are being under utilized.  There is the Westside First Wesleyan Church on Walnut & St. Vrain. Their food pantry is open on Wednesdays from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. It's good to be there about 8:30 A.M. so you can get a good selection of items.

Also, think about volunteering at Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO.  They almost always need help.  Please consider it.  How about going to the local Farmer's Markets around town?  It's good to get local foods at a fair price.

That's it for this post. Until next post, have a great day!

Spiced Vanilla Bean Sugar Grilled Nutella Sandwich - 5/13/2014

Hello again. Tonight, I didn't have any dessert laying around. However, I did have Nutella hazelnut spread, a hamburger bun, margarine and Spiced Vanilla Bean Sugar from Savory Spice Shop in Colorado Springs, CO.

I decided to make a Spiced Vanilla Bean Grilled Nutella Sandwich. I buttered the hamburger bun and sprinkled 1/4 teaspoon of the Spiced Vanilla Bean sugar onto the buttered hamburger bun.  I then pan grilled the sugared bun until it was caramelized.  It took about 2 to 3 minutes for that to happen.

When the hamburger bun was done grilling, I took it out of the pan and cooled it for one minute.  I then put some Nutella on the bottom bun.  You don't need much because the heat from the bun melts it quickly.  It was quite tasty.  I'm glad I had my shirt off when eating it as it would have messed up my shirt.  Try it sometime.  You may need a fork and knife for this one. Or, if you prefer, wear protective clothing or a poncho while eating it.

That's it for this post.  I hope you that you have enjoyed it.  Until next post, have a great day.

My Trip To Ivywild School - 5/9/2014

Hello again. After my work shift today, I decided to go to Ivywild School in Colorado Springs, CO.  It's an old school turned into stores and restaurants. I got there by a special Mountain Metro public bus shuttle. This was my first time there.  It's a nice use of an old school.

There, I went to Hunt Or Gather market.  I purchased two watermelon honey sticks and two blackberry honey sticks.  I'll find a use for them.  Here is a link about the store. http://www.ppcf.org/impact/hunt-or-gather   I gathered some information on the foods that they have there. I like some of the combinations of jellies and preserves they have there.  I have to find the right combo of peanut butter, jelly and chocolate for the Hot Mess Hidalgo doughnut that I am in the process of putting together.

There will be more to come as I start purchasing and making treats using items from the Ivywild School.  Until next time, have a great day.

Updates on COS Suspended Coffee And Business Closures - 5/8/2014

Hello, everyone.  I would like to update you on Suspended Coffee at Gold Hill Java Downtown in Colorado Springs and recent business closures.  The total on the Suspended Coffee gift certificate is now at $17.16.  Please tell your friends and family about Suspended Coffee at Gold Hill Java Downtown in Colorado Springs.

I still have not heard back from Orchard Ovens Bakery and why their location on East Bijou closed.  Also, the 7-Eleven store on West Bijou & Walnut has recently closed.  I had remembered that I went there last month and all seemed fine.  If you know of a local business closing its doors or relocating, let me know.  I wish that these businesses would contact the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce so we won't be surprised by their closings.

I received a pastry bag of lemon curd today.  I'll let you know what I do with it in a future post.  Until next time, have a great day.

Being In A Grocery Store Makes Me Cry - 5/7/2014

When I entered into a King Soopers store yesterday, I started to cry. I cried that I didn't have enough money to purchase most items in the store.  With the price of beef near or over US$6 a lb. and most other items has skyrocketed in price, I couldn't afford the healthy, good for me, stuff. All I could get was two 12 oz. cans of soda, a $0.40 cup of store brand yogurt and a Hershey's Special Dark chocolate bar to help in preparing my ChocoChurro Bites.

I went to a food pantry today to get some foods to last me a week. If I run out of food, I'll just have to go hungry or do volunteer work for my food since I don't have enough work this week.

The days of permanent, full time employment are almost gone due to the Affordable Care Act.  Post secondary education is almost impossible to pay for. University administrators are nothing more than, "Education Terrorists" by holding education hostage from the low to no income people.

That's all for now.  Until next post, have a great day.

Orchard Ovens Bakery Is Now Closed - 5/6/2014

Hello there.  I went by Orchard Ovens Bakery in Colorado Springs CO today. I found out it had either moved or gone out of business.  It was a pretty nice bakery while it lasted.  They are just another victim of the down economy.  I wonder what will take its place.  I looked inside and it was almost empty.  I hope they will open up again in a new location.  I hope to find out more information soon.

I hope you had a nice Cinco De Mayo.  Take care and have a great day.

Suspended Coffee Update from Gold Hill Java Downtown - 5/3/2014

Hi, everyone.  The update on the suspended coffee at Gold Hill Java Downtown in Colorado Springs, CO. is up to $17.01.  Thanks to all who contribute to help their fellow coffee drinkers who are down on their luck.

I hope it goes up to $20 by the end of the month.  We shall see.

Take care and have a great day!

$7.00 For A Mail Order Chocolate Covered Strawberry? - 5/1/2014

Hello, everyone.  Mother's Day is less than two weeks away.  Have you ordered something special for Mother's Day yet?  I know one company that has a package of 6 (read: Half Dozen) Chocolate covered Strawberries for $20 plus delivery.  It comes to around $40. That's almost $7 for each individual strawberry .  Isn't that too much?

That package arrives by FedEx or UPS. If you're not at home, the delivery person leaves the package there and the berries may not be as good.  A good way to avoid this is to shop local.

Shopping local means that you can save on shipping costs.  Shopping local also means a boost to the local economy.  Remember, convenience is a con. Work on your own food.  Also, refer to my post on my Nutella Filled Strawberries.

We are all interconnected.  Please remember that.  Until my next post, take care and have a great day.

ChocoChurro Bites - 4/29/2014

Hello again.  Today, I made a special treat.  It is called, "ChocoChurro Bites".  I took a store bought churro, sliced it into one inch pieces. In a bowl, I placed a broken up 1.5 oz. chocolate bar, a 1/4 cup of milk and a 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of Mexican Cocoa that I bought from Savory Spice Shop in Colorado Springs, CO. I melted the ingredients in the microwave for about one minute or until it is melted.  I then stirred the contents of the bowl until combined and smooth.

I took a fork and placed the churro pieces and covered them in the melted chocolate mixture. I then plated them and sprinkled the ChocoChurro Bites with a Black Onyx Chocolate Sugar that I also bought from Savory Spice Shop.  Here's a picture of the finished product.

This dessert is in honor of Cinco De Mayo and Belen De Leon from KUSA Channel 9 in Denver, CO.  This dessert is best eaten with a fork or chopsticks so you won't get any chocolate on your fingers.

I hope you like this dessert and will try to make this yourself. Follow me on Twitter at @uniquelymike  You can also e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net  Take care and have a great day!

Beefy 5 Layer Burrito Off Of Value Menu - 4/26/2014

Hello everyone.  I hope you all are having a nice weekend.  Today, I went into my local Taco Bell Restaurant in Colorado Springs, CO.  I was looking forward to having a Beefy 5 layer Burrito for $1.29 from the Value Menu.  Come to find out, the price went up 15 cents to $1.44 plus tax.  I walked out because Taco Bell had priced me out of purchasing the item.  Instead, I went home and cooked my dinner of sliced Italian Sausage, chicken flavored ramen noodles and a serving of canned pork n beans.
What other price increases have you seen at your local restaurants?  Please let me know and I'll forward it to my audience.

Follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike   E-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net  Take care and have a great day.

Fast Food Prices On The Rise - 4/20/2014

Happy Easter to all of you who celebrate it. He is Risen!

I had recently visited my local Arby's Restaurant near where I live.  I noticed that fast food prices are on the rise.  Their Ham Melt went from $1.09 to $1.29.

I went to Sonic today and found some price increases.  Their Jr. Breakfast Burrito & Small Fries/Tots went from $1.00 to $1.19.  The Jr. Deluxe burger went from $1.19 to $1.39

I have said to people in the past, "When the Minimum Wage goes up, almost everything else does too.".  Transportation costs, food costs and labor costs have gone up. So, these businesses have to pass those costs to the consumers.

I have heard on a public radio show called, "MarketPlace" from American Public Media that Americans love their food cheap.  The days of cheap food are flying away.  Most people, including lots of young people, don't know how to cook these days.  There needs to be a shift of thinking about our food and the economics of food.  Instead of "Super Sizing" ourselves, we need to "Mini Size" ourselves and our food portions.

People need to work on their food because convenience foods aren't as natural as real food.  Food has an expiration date...So do we.  Our food choices not only affect ourselves but other people as well. We may not know that what we do to ourselves affects other people around us in our small circles & bigger circles across our nation and around the world.

Thank you for reading this blog post.  Please follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike You can also e-mail me your comments to mikea1@earthlink.net  I hope to see you on my next blog post.  Take care and have a great day.

My Birthday & The Demise Of KFC Boneless Chicken - 4/11/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, I celebrate my 42nd Birthday.  It is a miracle that I am allowed to live another year.  I had my free Starbucks drink today.  I am going to Denny's soon for my free Grand Slam Breakfast for dinner.

I went to a KFC/A&W location today in Colorado Springs, CO for a 2 piece boneless chicken meal.  However, I was told that they stopped serving boneless chicken last week.  This was a surprise to me.  I had not heard this on the mainstream news.  The manager told me that it was just not selling.  This should have been on the news.  I guess that they didn't want to be embarrassed by their failure.

In other news, KareBear Bakery in Wheat Ridge, CO. near Denver will be opening up on April 15.  I hope to visit there soon to see about a special cake for Cinco De Mayo.

That's it for now.  Take care and have a great day!

Update on Suspended Coffee in Colorado Springs - 4/8/2014

Hello again. Here is an update on Suspended Coffee in Colorado Springs.  As of last Sunday, April 6, it is up to $11.28 at Gold Hill Java Downtown.  Here's a picture of the sign on the front door.

Look for this sign at your local coffeehouse.  If your local coffeehouse doesn't have suspended coffee, tell them about it.

That's all for now.  I hope to be going to Denver soon to visit KareBear Bakery.  They are a supporter of Suspended coffee as well.  Take care and have a great day.

Coquette's Colorado Springs Is Now Open - 4/5/2014

Hello again.  Coquette's in Colorado Springs is now open.  It is a 100% Gluten Free restaurant and bakery.  I went there yesterday to see the inside.  It is wonderful.  They have a full bar towards the back of the restaurant.  They are open six days a week. They are closed on Mondays.  They are open for lunch/dinner Monday through Friday. Weekends, there is brunch and dinner.

Here's a picture of their sign that was outside.

I hope you stop by.  They are located on N. Tejon St. and Boulder.  I hear that they have truffle fries as well as sweet potato chipotle fries with a marshmallow sauce.  Both of them are worth the try.  Until we meet again, have a great day.

Official State Burritos - 4/3/2014

Hello again.  Since there is a burrito called a California burrito, I wonder if there are official state burritos.  I asked on Facebook and Twitter what would be the official state burrito for Hawaii.  One person commented, "Pineapple & Chicken". Another person said, "Shaved Ice".  Still another person said, "Pineapple, grilled Spam, Sour Cream & Cheese".  Grace Lee from Hawaii News Now said on Twitter, "Kalua Pork with cabbage and hot sauce".

What would your state's burrito be?  Please leave a comment or Tweet me @uniquelymike Take care and have a great day.

Eggo S'Mores Waffles & Dickey's BBQ Pit 2nd COS Location - 4/3/2014

Hello again. I found out that the second Colorado Springs, CO location of Dickey's BBQ Pit is now open.  It opened yesterday.  Today, they gave out their Big Yellow Cup of iced tea for free to the first 100 customers.  I was one of those 100 customers. I had some sweet tea in honor of Kirsten Horne from 7 News Now in Denver, CO.  I bought a Little Hoagie sandwich with sliced beef brisket with a side of baked potato casserole for lunch.  I dined in. After lunch, I treated myself to an ice cream cone that was free.

After that, I went to the Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market that was two doors down.  There, I bought a pack of Eggo S'Mores Waffles.  Here's a pic of the box.

It's a limited edition waffle.  I bought it in honor of Lisa Hidalgo from 7 News Now in Denver, CO. & her #SpottyShowers forecasts.

How come you see certain grocery items at Wal-Mart stores and not at the union grocery stores?  Time will tell.  I hope to see you on my next blog post.  Take care & have a great day.

People Go Pupule - 3/31/2014

Hello again.  I just saw the upcoming King's Hawaiian commercial on Youtube. The video has now gone private as of 4/4/2014

Tomorrow is the Grand Opening of Coquette's Colorado Springs at 11 a.m.  I hope to be there tomorrow and take pictures of the event.  Take care and have a great day!

Suspended Coffee In Colorado Springs - 3/30/2014

Hello again. Thank you for your viewership. My blog post on Suspended Coffee has gotten a good amount of views.  To continue with the theme of Suspended Coffee, I found a coffee shop in Colorado Springs, CO that has a Suspended Coffee program.  The coffee shop is called Gold Hill Java in the Downtown area.  It is located at 332 N. Tejon St. Their website is: http://www.goldhilljavadowntown.com/

I went there today for a cup of coffee and put some money into the Suspended Coffee program.  It's a running gift certificate.  As of 1 pm this afternoon, it's at $11.73  Why don't we double or triple it by the end of this week.  One of the baristas there told me that this has to be more publicized.  So, that's why I'm blogging about it.  If you owe someone, you pay it back. If you don't owe anyone, pay it forward.  There's no excuse for not changing a life today.

Please follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike and e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net  Take care and have a great day.

Mundo Fries At Mundo Las Vegas - 3/29/2014

Hello once again. This is the second blog post today.  My friends at Mundo: A Latin Chic Restaurant in Las Vegas, Nevada sent me a picture of their Mundo Fries.  What are Mundo Fries?  Mundo Fries are sweet potatoes plus Idaho potatoes with fresh ground ancho chile and cotija cheese.  Here is the picture that they sent me.

Doesn't that look good?  Mundo is located at 495 S. Grand Central Parkway Ste A-116 in Las Vegas, NV.  Make sure you stop by when you're in Las Vegas.

If you have ever tried these fries, please leave me a comment and tell me about them.  I'll see you on my next blog post.  Have a great day!

Baked Chocolate Sweet Potato - 3/29/2014

Hello again.  Last night, I made a baked chocolate sweet potato.  I wrapped a sweet potato in foil. I put it in a pan.  I baked it at 360 degrees F for one hour.  I took it out of the oven and unwrapped the foil after about 5 minutes to slightly cool.  I split it in half, fluffed it with a fork, put margarine, black onyx chocolate sugar and some store brand of hazelnut spread on it.  Here's the picture of the finished product.

I hope you will try this.  Let me know how it turns out.

Remember to follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike and e-mail  me at mikea1@earthlink.net   Have a great day.

It's About More Than The Coffee - 3/25/2014

Hello there. I came across a Huffington Post article about Suspended Coffee.  Here is the link to the article. Suspended Coffee 

It's about, "Paying It Forward" a cup of coffee. Think of it as a random act of kindness.  Don't we need more random acts of kindness in our world today?

Helping other people & changing people's lives is a must every day of our lives. Who knows when you'll be the one needing help.

I'll see you on my next blog post.  Have a great day!

Coquette's Colorado Springs Open on April 1 - 3/24/2014

Hello there.  The new Coquette's Bistro & Bakery location in Colorado Springs, CO will be opening on April 1, 2014.  They will be closed on Mondays.  They are 100% Gluten Free.  I hope you will visit them.  Here's the sign outside of the new location.

If you remember the Manitou Springs location, I know that you will love this location. I hope to see you there.

Happy Spring Break out there and have a great day.

College Student's Decision: Learning Or Eating - 3/20/2014

Hello there.  I recently read an article that says that there are an increasing number of food pantries on college campuses across the United States.  In this day and age, college students have to decide whether to learn or eat with the money they have for their college education. This should not be.

Students need the proper foods to be at their best to learn and change the world for the better.  If there is a "No Child Left Hungry", there should be a "No Student Left Hungry".  I am grateful for community cafes such at Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  College students should consider volunteering some of their spare time for a meal.

What happens to somebody affects everybody. There is no way around it.  Just think about it. Everyone is important in ways we may never know.

You can follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike and e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net  Please share this post with as many people as possible. I hope that one day, there will be many more community cafes in the U.S. working with colleges and universities.

I'll see you on my next blog post.  Have a great day.

Baked Cinnamon Chocolate Sugar Apples - 3/18/2014

Hello, everyone.  Tonight, I decided to make baked cinnamon chocolate sugar apples tonight.  I had two apples from the food pantry I went to today. I cored and sliced them. I added some lemon juice to them so that the cinnamon and Black Onyx Chocolate Sugar from Savory Spice Shop could stick to them.

I baked the apples for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.  Then, I added a 1/2 cup of water to them and baked them for another 15 minutes.  After they were done, I sprinkled on more of the chocolate sugar.

Here's a picture of the finished product.

I hope you liked this blog post.  Follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike  This is good with almost any ice cream. Have a great day!

Waiting For Powdered Sunflower Seed Butter - 3/17/2014

Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone out there. I hope you are safe and sober.  Hopefully, you will not find vomit in your city streets tomorrow morning.

I recently bought a pouch of PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter with chocolate.  I realize that there are people out there with peanut allergies.  I know of sunflower seed butter in certain retail shops.  Why not have a powdered sunflower seed butter as well. It is only logical.

I am still waiting for that to happen. If you know of a company that does a powdered sunflower seed butter, please contact me by e-mail at mikea1@earthlink.net or on Twitter @uniquelymike

I look forward to seeing you on my next post.  Have a great day.

Bingo Burger Coming to Colorado Springs - 3/8/2014

I was in the Downtown area of Colorado Springs, CO. today. I saw that a Bingo Burger is coming soon.  It's on N. Tejon St. near Bijou. It's under construction as we speak.  It'll be next to a Starbucks Coffee.  There is a location in Pueblo.

I'll probably go there when it opens and when I have the money for it. I looked at their website http://www.bingoburger.com Check out their menu.  I will let you know when I know when the Grand Opening is.

You can e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net and follow me on Twitter at @uniquelymike  Thanks for visiting and have a great day.

Coquette's Colorado Springs Open in Spring 2014.

Hi there.  I found out that the Coquette's new location in Colorado Springs, CO. will be open in the Spring of 2014.  Construction is still going on inside.  I hope that they will have a great Grand Opening.  I hope to be there.

On another note, today is National Strawberry Day. So, I made nutella filled strawberries once again.  I gave some to the volunteers at Seeds Community Cafe.  They were taken pretty quickly.  I am hoping to make more soon.

That is it for this post.  I look forward to see you on my next post in March.  Take care and have a great day!

Nutella Filled Strawberries - 2/14/2014

Happy Valentine's Day 2014 to everyone.  Before I volunteered at Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO today, I decided to treat my fellow volunteers with Nutella Filled Strawberries I made this morning.  Here's a picture of them before they were all eaten.

I received many positive reactions to these delicious filled strawberries.  If you would like to have some and are in the Colorado Springs or Denver areas, please e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net

Thanks for visiting my blog and have a great day!

No Child Left Hungry - 2/1/2014

Hello, everyone.  It is the start of a new month.  I recently read that at Uintah Elementary School in Salt Lake City, Utah that school lunches of up to 40 students were taken and thrown away because of outstanding balances on their accounts.  This should not happen in any school anywhere.  Money should never come in the way of children having a well balanced meal at school.

I believe that a community cafe should step up and provide lunches for those families that can't afford school lunches.  In some areas, a fast food sandwich and a soft drink are cheaper than a school lunch.  What are your thoughts on that?

Let us use this hash tag on our Facebook & Twitter pages: #nochildlefthungry  Our children are our future.  Let's leave our world better than the one we lived in in our youth.

You can follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike Also, you can e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net

Here is to the start of a great month filled with love.  Have a great day!

Pepper Pot Soup at Seeds Community Cafe - 1/30/2014

Hello, everyone.  Today, as part of my lunch, I had the pepper pot stone soup from Seeds Community Cafe in Colorado Springs, CO.  Here is a picture of it.

This soup had Ranch Foods Direct chicken & beef as well as peppers, onions, potatoes and spatzle dumplings.  I took my time having this with my meal.  It's available from time to time.  Contact Seeds Community Cafe to see if it's on the menu the day you come and visit.

Please follow me on Twitter @uniquelymike  You can also e-mail me at mikea1@earthlink.net  Take care and have a great day!

One Week Until Super Bowl - 1/26/2014

Hello again.  It is one week until the Super Bowl is played in New Jersey.  There will be lots and lots of calories consumed that day.  What are your favorite Super Bowl foods?  Do you have any Super Bowl recipes to share?  I welcome your recipes and pictures for this blog.  You can e-mail me your recipes and pictures of your Super Bowl spread at mikea1@earthlink.net  I look forward to showing my audience good food that you'll want to have because it's so good.

Take care and have a great day!