I just found a couple of pages a friend of mine wrote about stocking and organizing a pantry… and of course I wanted to pass on the information to you since the intent of this blog so closely matches Dianne’s articles.

First I noticed her article on Gather.Com, one of my favorite article-writing sites. Her article, A Well-Stocked Pantry, caught my eye… because pantries are often on my mind… especially as my tomatoes are getting ripe and I’m wondering how I’m going to can and store them all!

In her article she linked to a related Squidoo page about kitchen pantries on which she shows examples of why having a well stocked kitchen pantry will be invaluable in a number of situations. I too look for the sales to buy supplies in quantity. She has a poll there, “Is your pantry organized and well-stocked?”… I had to admit, mine is well-stocked, but not organized. I love her organization suggestions!

I’m wondering how many of the people reading this blog are vegetarians. Are you one? And if not, do you want to become one?

I just found a web page about making the transition - Becoming Vegetarian: “Life” Without Meat - which may help anyone thinking about dropping meat from their diet.

It mentions soy. I personally am no longer using soy because most soybeans are now genetically modified. Too bad so many store-bought vegetarian foods are formulated with soy. I stick to plain homecooked food most of the time… beans and rice, burritos, pasta, rice and veggies, soup — simple things like that.

If you are a vegetarian, please tell us what your favorite food is!

I’ve got a small vegetable and herb garden growing outside. It has finally developed to the point where I can go out and harvest some veggies. Day before yesterday I harvested spinach, parsley and broccoli. There should be more before the season is over. Lots more!

Earlier this summer I was hooked on tomato and onion sandwiches. Very addicting! But now I’m diversifying and calling my treats “Garden Sandwiches” and trying to add as many garden goodies as I can.

A few minutes ago I had a sandwich which contained spinach, tomatoes, onions, parsley, and some of my current burrito filling. The burrito filling was made from mashed potatoes, brown rice, and spices… lots of spices. I highly recommend this!

I have a few questions… for those of you who are into creative vegan sandwich making.

1. What do you use instead of mayonnaise?

2. What veggies do you like best in sandwiches?

3. Any other ideas on what to put in there?

Thanks to all who have creative suggestions for me!