What is that?

TVP. Textured Vegetable Protein. It is most often used as a meat substitute. Made from soy, it is full of protein and contains no fat. It comes in flakes, chunks, grains and needs to be rehydrated before consuming. Sound appetizing?

We got some TVP for Christmas and haven’t been brave enough to try it. Last night we got home from work and found our cupboards bare - except for the ingredients for tacos…minus the meat of course. So it seemed a perfect time to try out our TVP.

We were surprised that it wasn’t half bad. It basically tasted like the taco seasoning we put in it and not much else. We have been trying to find ways to eat less meat and this was a good option. Steve said he would eat it again so I guess we will be hunting down some good TVP recipes for the future.

The big AZ!

Last weekend Steve and I were in Tucson, Arizona for his annual work conference. This year's theme was "Cowboys" so cowboy and cowgirl attire was required. We did our best. Luckily my dear friend Merissa loaned me those totally awesome red boots which were a big hit and admittedly quite fun to wear. I might need some of my own.

We had great weather on the first day, I even got a little color while sitting by the pool but by the time we left it was snowing...which only happens in Tucson once every 7 or 8 years. So much for escaping the cold. I did get a quick hike in while Steve was in meetings and at the peak of the hill I climbed I could see into the Saguaro National Forest. All the crazy cacti reminded me of my days living in the Arizona desert. Good memories.

{cactus hiking trail with resort in the background}

{this Saguaro cactus had to be at least 30 feet tall!}

{Ye-haw!}