Here is our second album – and it is a good one!
This was TMAP’s very first Christmas party back in 2007. Everyone had a fantastic time, and that night brings back many happy memories. It is not very often that you see our Senseis cut loose, but here is proof that they do!
Amazing Senseis…questionable dancers…. 
Here I am celebrating with Sensei Eamon when he gained his red belt. I love gradings. They are a positive way to set goals and work towards achieving them. Grading is the most amazing feeling (so I have been told – I myself am an honorary black belt). My favourite part is when the students are handed their new belts. It does not matter how old they are, they always look so proud! The worst part? The pushups…a necessary evil!
Summer is almost here…or is it? Last month the weather kept us on our toes/paws. However, by the second bank holiday weekend I think it is safe to say, that we finally got a peek at summer. Everyone loves a bit of sunshine – especially chihuahuas! It always lifts the spirits to feel the warmth on your face.
I hope it lasts!!
A delicious treat for the warmer weather, smoothies really pack in those vitamins and are easy to make by blending whatever fruit you may have around the house.
Tips:
1. Almond milk is a great alternative to yoghurt, especially for vegans. But a little water works just as well.
2. Smoothies taste best when they are cold, but if you are worried that your blender is not strong enough to crush ice, try using frozen fruit instead. Put a banana (cut it up into chunks) in the freezer for a few hours to overnight, and then pop it into your blender first. The fruit will make the smoothie cold and will add a nice consistency.
3. If you have any dark leafy greens around – pop them in as well. Kale and spinach are incredibly rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Be warned that they will make your smoothie green, which some people find unappealing, but I promise it will taste great!
Which House do I back? The Starks, of course – everyone knows that wolves and dogs are canid cousins!!
I love Superhero films and Tony Stark (aha – another Stark!) is back with a vengeance in this the latest installment of the Iron Man franchise. Robert Downey Jr. is brilliant in this film! My one suggestion for Iron Man 4 is that Tony Stark needs a new sidekick (sorry Don Cheadle) – maybe a chocolate chihuahua or little monkey.
This portable meal fits in the palm of your hand (or between two paws for me), proving that good things really do come in small packages (like me). The muffin is the more sensible cousin to the cupcake as it is generally not as sweet and topped with icing, but it is just as fun and relevant. I usually find our British muffins…well, bit flat and boring… but these dome-shaped beauties can be chock-full of goodness, just by adding a few healthy ingredients! Some of my favourites are: blueberries, pumpkin, banana, seeds (pumpkin, chia, poppy), pecan and macadamia nuts, oatmeal and wheatgerm!
I will rustle up some recipes for you, but until then, head over to your nearest Le Pain Quotidien and try out their organic blueberry muffins – they are so good! And remember, the proper way to eat a muffin is to pop the top (dome) off and save it for last!
