Experiencing SoCal VegFest And Expanding Horizons

Momma Told Me: Don't think different, think broader.

If you'd asked me a few years ago if I'd like to go to something with 'VegFest' in the title I'd have laughed out loud and made a snarky remark about bacon covered veggies. And the truth is, that type of mentality runs rampant among the communities outside 'that way of life.' You know the communities, 'Veg Heads,' 'Tree Huggers,' ....'Vegans'- there's us and then there's them. If it sounds like an ugly way of thinking, it is.

But, really, a few bad apples (pun intended) have given an entire way of living a bad wrap. Vegetarians, vegans, and humanitarians all have this misguided rep for being over-zealous and judgemental when, in truth, those looking outside are casting stones just as far as them. As a foodie, I've long recognized this war but it wasn't until one of our close friends 'came out' as Vegan that I was forced to look at how I so harshly judged.

There are a lot of reasons I feel I will never be a Vegan.

Do I feel there is anything wrong with those who choose to be? Absolutely not? Could I see myself as a Vegetarian, or Pescatarian? Maybe. But what it really boils down to, is I would rather choose to expand my lifestyle to be more conscious, than flip a switch overnight and commit to an entire way of living I really know so little about.

And that is how I would up at SoCal VegFest the, second annual free admittance, massive weekend event which self professes it's specially organized to "engage curiosity and inspire consciousness in people of all ages." I really couldn't put it better myself.

Organized on the sunny Orange County College Campus what might be misunderstood as a Vegetarian or Vegan festival really was an enlightening experience. With hundreds of vendors, many food trucks and food minded vendors yes, from animal free hair care to holistic living and inspirational live music. Anyone walking in with an open mind would surely find themselves delighted beyond labels and lingo.

Prime example- Vegan Donuts.

Local North Los Angeles boutique style donut shop, The Donuttery, was arguably one of the hottest Food exhibits at the event boasting a mostly Vegan menu of flavor twisting, from scratch, donuts, with names like PB&J and Cinnamon Roll. Many of their menu offerings are not just animal by-product free, but gluten and or dairy free as well, making them great for those with allergies, or just a conscious sweet tooth.

Even in the SoCal heat I insisted on toting a few of these delicious donuts through the event with us, and home for dessert that night. It was well worth the wait; forget their excluded ingredients, these were easily some of the best donuts, flavor and texture, I've ever had!

Of course I was all about the food- and the seemingly endless samples the vendors had to offer only gave me more reason to 'educate' myself on culinary alternatives and potential benefits to dietary changes- but there was plenty more going on than Earth friendly hippie brands peddling food.

Whether you were interested in aligning your chakras, sampling homemade incense, exploring natural fabric dyed and printed clothing, learning to play a new instrument, or wished to discuss methods of at-home-composting, there was something to intrigue everyone from the curious, to the life-long-devoted Earth conscious individual. We spotted families, pets (which technically weren't allowed because of the food), couples, fashion driven college students and grunged out high schoolers. And the vibe- it was electric.

As someone not necessarily looking to convert to Veganism, I was also accompanied by my Vegan friend. That somehow sounds wrong, when I type it, as if hes 'my Vegan friend'- when, in fact, he's introduced me to many like-minded people from his circles. But, still, I associate him with my 'tipping point,' my 'eyes wide open' factor. So nearly everything we actually sampled or bought was, in fact, Vegan, despite the fact that not all the vendors were Vegan friendly.

And if I am speaking Chinese- Vegan would indicate no animal sourced products were used, rather than no animal meat (Vegetarian), and Veganism can take many forms from mild (no milk, meat, fats) to extreme (no honey, animal labor, or even animal household pets). For our purpose my friendly Vegan friend is quite easy to talk to and will happily explain that every Vegan must find their own level of comfort as to what their lifestyle means, and what path they will live.

Having said all this- yes, that is Vegan funnel cake, and it is amazing. Up top: a plant based milk substitute we found even more creamy than the big name competitor, Silk. Look for MALK at a store near you soon!

Speaking of expanding horizons, Vegan Sushi is something I didn't think existed, let alone thought I would ever try- so I naturally jumped at the chance when we passed by a specialty food truck known for their imitation spicy tuna-less tuna. Believe it or not, the materials cost of manufacturing this sushi was not only less on the eco-impact bottom line, but the wallet as well. And the flavor? Impressively good. The puffed rice and crispy noodles on the exterior really brought the texture and flavors of the imitation tuna to life!

Of course it wouldn't be SoCal VegFest without the PETA booth- a booth that pops up at a lot of festivals and events I frequent, but has always had me a bit timid to approach. PETA has a bad wrap for being a little extremist, and some of their representatives have questionable tactics for shock based messaging.

On this particular day I was actually accompanied by my friend, Aaron (you know, my 'Vegan friend') who actually just began working as a social media representative for the organization this month. He really helped show me the softer side of the organization, and how they worked hard to expand not only vision but perception through creative solutions- not just the traditional scare tactics they often get a bad wrap for. With representatives such as Aaron holing their face, I really find the organization is much more approachable for mainstream consumers such as myself.

Somewhere near the PETA booth were a few animal friendly accessory and fashion vendors. I, personally, don't find that Vegan fashion in the high end market is in my budget- with the gorgeous high-top leather alternatives calling my name ever so sweetly- but I definitely found a beautiful art in thinking outside traditional materials to create gorgeous clothing. The more I pondered how truly far one had to go to be genuinely Vegan kosher in the world of clothing, the more my head actually began to spin. So many animal by products are used in the industry, much like the case used to be with cosmetics.

SoCal Veg Fest also had an assortment of events being hosted throughout the weekend, much like you'd find at your local fair. A costume contest and cupcake contest were just a few of the highlights- The criteria for the cupcake contest being that they at minimum were Vegetarian friendly. These rules didn't seem to hinder creativity at all, though- the Little Shop of Horrors inspired cupcakes were a clear front runner in my book. I only wish I could've tasted them!

We wrapped our day with one last snack- Vegan Ginger Miso Portobello Potstickers (a pricey $18 plate, but oh so worth it as it was, wok'd in from of you.) And, of course, we stopped by Southern Fried Vegan for a plate of  Chicken-less Chicken and Waffles to take home for dinner. Man, if I lived in the Los Angeles area I could easily see myself spoiled on good Vegan eats!

Of course the moral of the day was really just an expansion of possibilities and a slightly different way of thinking. The social impact of our consumer and dietary consumption is one issue- but the mentality of skewing one's self towards am ore sustainable, and greater, future, really shines with appeal to me. I look forward to attending the event again next year, and will definitely keep my eyes out for similar events more local in the upcoming year! Now, tell me, what do you think you'd enjoy most about visiting an event like SoCal Veg Fest?

What Daughter Says: Expanding your mind doesn't require commitment, it just requires an open mind.

How To Own Your Strong: You Can Do Mudderella (Photo Intensive)

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for #Mudderella2015. I received complimentary admission to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. All photos contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015, except those with the Mudderella logo, provided by the event photographers.

Momma Told Me: Mind over body.

When I was a young girl I avoided sports and physical exertion at any cost. Yes, I could climb a tree, and I certainly felt more at home rough-housing with the boys than the girls, but the idea of competing or eve cooperating in a group, or breaking into a sweat, was not my concept of enjoyable. Then, at 11 entering 8th grade, my knee blew out doing absolutely nothing, standing in the center of our family's kitchen. One twist the wrong way and I was landing on my knee, tearing a tendon. It was an incident that got me a free pass from physical education though out high school, but somehow remained an excuse through my adulthood.

A few years ago I began doing 'fun runs,' such as The Color Run. For me, they were really more 'fun' than 'run,' as me and my teams walked them. For me, there was no accomplishment, or bragging rights, in the idea of running a 5k, so I felt no motivation to do so. This year I began exploring other events I could add to my yearly lineup. An uncle of mine had recently completed a Spartan Race and, while the idea of something so intense and committed terrified me, I wanted to feel a similar sense of goal and achievement. My physical activity was pretty low- I'd only just began getting back in the gym, regularly, in January.

When I came across Mudderella, and announced I'd be attending, my friends and family voiced their concerns. A 6+ mile run/walk on rugged and varied terrain with 10+ obstacles including heights, mud, and water? But I knew Mudderella wasn't just some 'mud run,' I knew immediately, this was an experience I could achieve.

The first thing that makes Mudderella so very unbelievably awesome and unique is it's commitment to support. From the moment you sign up you will have access to their weekly training program, designed to help you shape all the right muscles for event day. This intimidated me at first, but really consisted of varied squats, muscle holds, and aerobics- anyone can do. There are even variations of exercises offered so you can decide just how much to push yourself.

And once you walk through that entrance gate on game day you are immediately a part of a very special community of women. Walking through that gate at the Solano County Fairgrounds (Vallejo, CA- NorCal Event) I felt instantly empowered and as though I were about to be a part of something truly great. Women of every age, shape, size, and ethnicity had gathered. And, while most teams or groups were dressed similar in matching outfits, I could easily see them commingling and socializing about the event- before it had even begun! So, after checking in, I stopped by 'The Works' and got my bib number painted on me, and a few very special temporary tattoos. I emerged feeling more and more like a warrior every second.

At the starting gate participants danced eagerly to the blasting music. I was surrounded by smiles, and pulled into the stories of the unique women surrounding me. Sure, some of the participants had GoPro cameras strapped to their chests and were there with the intent of breaking records and taking names but the majority of us were there to conquer for ourselves.

To my left I chatted with a few women my mother's age who shared that they were participating in honor of their friend, with cancer, who could not attend as planned this year. To my right, 'The Sloth Runners' made up a motley crew of women from 20-64 (I asked) of varying heights and weights. They explained there was no intent to conquer anything except their own personal fears, and that completion was the true prize. And, directly in front of me a group of college aged girls with impressively small waists and toned bodies, in tutus, twerked to Taylor Swift with an energy that was contagious.

Our 6 mile course had 3 water stations, sponsored by Pure Protein. At each one porta-potties stood as on site facilities, and volunteers furiously pumped water into Dixie Cups. Our first water station was stationed after I Got your Back (piggy back carry,) and just past the mile marker. I found the addition of Pure Protein bar cubes a great pick-me up addition to the classic water station concept.

Our first 'real' obstacle of the event was one commonly associated with Mudderella. While the obstacle lineup is not announced prior to the event, and varies with each city, Down To The Wire- or the Mud Crawl, is one boot camp style event that makes for great photos. It's not particularly tough- but it is the first opportunity we had to truly get muddy- as the event cameraman captured in the photo above. My, personal shots were captured with my Samsung Galaxy S4 in a Lifeproof case- I'm happy to report my phone was submerged multiple times and emerged with no damage :)

Get Out And Do Something! Paint Nite Events

Momma Told Me: Paint the town!

I'm making a lot of changes this year. Changes I feel are, hopefully, for the better. I'm trying to spend more time with the people that matter, unplug from work at a reasonable hour, and spend my disposable (it it ever REALLY disposable???) income on experiences, rather than things. Not only do studies suggest that the tangible 'high' of acquiring an experience over a thing lasts much longer, but that the long term security of one's investment continues to generate positive feelings even long after the event has ended, due to the existence of the experience, itself. Even better, experiences can be shared with the people who matter, really giving me more bang for my buck, so to speak.

Over the next few months I will have several amazing experiences to share with you here on the blog. Some of them are small single day events, others will take up the better part of a week. So, if it gets a little quiet here, don't fret, I'm just out there living life and 'researching' content for you all! On the list of places I'll visit, currently, are the vastly different states, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Alaska. I'll be visiting BlogHer, driving up the coast to the Washington border, cruising the Alaskan shores, flying out of Canada, and spending some much needed time with family. If you can't dedicate chunks of time to 'experience' and vacation, don't fret- small activities like the one I'm sharing today take only a few hours and little planning.

I have wanted to do a Paint Night ever since I heard of the concept- Groupon (and Groupon style sites) constantly have half off specials as low as $20 per person for numerous organizations that arrange these events. For today's purpose, I went with a Paint Nite event. Locations vary from family restaurants to wineries, pubs, and more; and timing ranges from afternoon to late night events. even better, there are events on nearly every day of the week and you can pick and choose your event's painting based on your personal preference or difficulty level. There is truly something for everyone at these events where you are instructed on the recreation of an existing painting.

There is no need to bring any supplies (though you should bring a few dollars to tip your instructor) all supplies are provided for you, including an apron, and you get to take your canvas home at the end of the event! Materials are very basic, so all skill levels will feel at home, and you are encouraged to emulate the target painting exactly through the instruction or take the learned techniques and transform them into your own vision. Our group had everything from exact replicas to different color schemes and abstract interpretations. We had 2 instructors, and they roamed the group offering one on one tips, if desired, in between their main instruction.

Most of these painting events involve alcohol- either in a bring your own or buy your own fashion, though drinking is certainly NOT required. My cousins, aunt, and I enjoyed our session at Alosta Brewing Co, in Covina, CA, so we did enjoy a casual beer during our 2 and a half hour event. I'll admit, I was a bit puzzled as to why our birds of paradise had thin 'reed like' shadows, instead of the thick sweeping leaves the plant would normally have....but I suppose it's all in artistic interpretation. Everyone present was very friendly and it was quite fascinating to see the different interpretations everyone had in their recreation of one painting.

Speaking of those present- our event was in the afternoon on a weekend, it was a very fun and friendly crowd. There were a few wives with their husbands (yes, it CAN be a date night) and a few groups of women celebrating birthdays or bridal showers. In all, with the half off Groupon rate, I couldn't have been happier with my time spent. I not only got to reconnect with family and see their own beautiful visions and creativity, but I also got to take home a piece of the memory in a physical painting. I am already planning my next painting night out, and can't wait- I wonder who I will bring next! Have you ever done a single class or event like this? Who would you bring with you if you haven't?

What Daughter Says: You can't experience new things if you don't get out and try them!

Join Up With The Color Run 2015 Shine Tour And Sparkle!

***While I have blogged non-sponsored for The Color Run several times in the past, including our popular Color Run Mime post, I will receive free admission to this year's event in exchange for this post. All photos are original and copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2015. Shine on America.

Momma Told Me: There's always time to sparkle.

At last the day is finally nearing- the day I begin counting down too from the moment The Color Run ends (though it never really ends as your sinuses are coughing up rainbows for a solid week, but I digress,) the VIP Ticket Sales for my local Ventura, CA event. That's right, this October 17th my sister city is going to rock the running rainbow like never before with the all new, one year only, Shine tour! This 'fun run' event just got a whole lot more magical with the addition of glitter! If you're new to the whole Color Run thing, you've either been hiding under a rock, or not reading my blog.

We did our first Color Run event 2 years back in a group of family members young and old. The Color Run is a 'fun run'  by definition, so every age and level of fit is welcome from tenderfoot to fitness buff to jelly donut. Run, walk, or jog-stroller the 5 k (which really is peanuts people, 3 miles goes quick even at a walking pace!)  And, our first year, that's exactly what we did, walk the course to get a feel for the experience.

The first year they handed out our color starch toss packets in our race day packages and eager participants were caught tossing them around and in the air before the start whistle had even begun. I suspect the host cities didn't like this very much, since the starting line as intended to be a 'clean zone,' and this past year we were issued color packets at the end of the race *frowny face*. No worries, there is still plenty of color to be had throughout at 4 unique color stations. And, did I mention you're encouraged to dress up and have a little fun? You'll find the friendliest and most creative characters at a Color Run course. Among last year's favorites was a team of superhero caped littles, a 6'5"  short shorts wearing man with sunglasses and an afro, and Sad Mime.

While the Color Run is a blast you won't be ambushed by people throwing color in your face- you'll have a race day map well in advance and always see the Color zones coming. they're usually at the end of  hill or long stretch as an extra special reward for your athletic perseverance.  Dress up in a rainbow of spandex and tulle or wear all white cotton and really soak up the color- it's up to you! At the color stations you can stand and be sprayed with as much color as you want, until you decide to emerge from the cloud of colored corn starch. Just remember to protect any phones or cameras with waterproof bags- that color's a sneakey sort!

Sometimes you'll feel like you just don't have enough color- I've seen people emerge from the run with but a spot of pink or yellow, almost like they 'beat' the course. To each their own, I go in hard and like a wrecking ball- Miley would be proud. Last year Jay painted his face white to really soak in the color, the year before I plastered myself with 'war paint,' the only real rule is to go in and have fun. It is #TheHappiest5k after all!

We've had so much fun at our past Color Run events that we're making a photo wall out of our finish photos. We already have the above 2 shots memorialized in canvas and are counting down the days until October 17th when the event passes through town yet again. My trademark has been my rainbow eyeshadow- but everything else is up for debate- I'm tossing a few 'game day' ideas around in my head but it'll be hard to top last year's sad mime and kitty cat! I'd go with dressing like a unicorn but the mascot IS a unicorn so that simply doesn't seem original enough. Jay's has enough interest in the mime returning he's planning on going with that but you'll have to stay tuned to see what I decide to go with this year!

Speaking of 'this year,' last year's 'twist' was the kaleidoscope tour, in which runners had the chance to run through a tornado of colorful streamers at the finish line. This year we're sparkling hard on the Shine tour with glitter at the finish line! even more exciting, our race kit comes with a medal so we can rock that color spirit all year round! Do not miss this one of a kind event- there are copycats but NOONe does it like The Official Color Run! Click the button below to sign up for alerts on the event nearest you and register with code MLC143657 for $5 off the city of your choice now through March 15, 2015! Have you done a color run or fun run event before? If so, what was your favorite?

 What Daughter Says: Make time to shine this year with the Color Run!