Childhood Outlook

Reminiscing with my family last night got me thinking about my childhood. From the outside, growing up in a single-parent home with not a lot of money probably didn’t seem like an ideal situation. As my mom would say, “we didn’t have a pot to piss in,” but somehow, the three of us made it work. We’re all really laid-back (I’m the most high-strung if that says anything), so even though we lived through some tough times, we just went with the flow and made the best of the situation.

The other night when I had dinner at my sister’s house, she gave me a bunch of food that she didn’t like or wasn’t planning to eat: oat bran, raisins, and honey. Growing up, we were taught to never waste food, so this mindset still sticks with us today. Pretty much every time I see my sister (or my mom), we always have a big bag full of stuff to give to that person– usually, it’s food, but sometimes it’s clothing or other random items that we can’t bear to just toss in the trash. Over the years, we’ve saved quite a bit of money sharing between us!

I find it so interesting how one’s childhood shapes their habits and outlook on life. I always thought that I was my own independent person– someone who went off to college and developed her own ideas and ways to look at life. But, the older I get, the more I realize how much my childhood and my family influence who I am today. I love realizing that I say the same things as my mom or do things just like one of my aunts or uncles.

After my dentist appointment (no cavities!), I was so ready for breakfast. Sitting in that dentist chair with an empty, grumbling stomach was not very fun. I needed food ASAP!

When I got home, I whipped up a quick bowl of Raspberry Pecan Mad Hectic Oatmeal. (LOVE this stuff!) I added a scoop of peanut butter to the mix.

I enjoyed my oatmeal with a wonderful iced tea latte. This time, I tried Golden Moon’s Sugar Caramel Oolong, which had a nice, sweet caramel flavor to it. So delish!

If you’re interested in trying this flavor (or the Coconut Pouchong) for yourself, you can buy it here.

Like last time, I brewed the tea the night before, let it sit in the fridge overnight, and then added ice and vanilla soy milk. (When I make tea for an iced tea latte, I double the amount of tea and use the same amount of water to make the brew stronger. The flavor holds up much better when mixed with ice and milk.)

So, what do you guys think of these Golden Moon teas? What else would you want to know about them? Which one is your favorite? Golden Moon is a fan of Carrots ‘N’ Cake and is willing to answer any questions. Just let me know!

Here’s some Cookie Friday inspiration! Check out this deliciousness!

Thanks to everyone who entered! Aren’t those bags a great idea? I’m pretty much obsessed with them.

Here’s your winner: 385

#385 Liz

These are awesome. I hardly even use the plastic produce bags- but these would be so convenient and sustainable! My favorite is the modern harvest pattern.

Congrats, Liz! Please email me at tina@carrotsncake.com to claim your prize.

If you still want these bags in your life, you can get 20% off with the code: EARTH20. Happy shopping!

How did your upbringing affect your outlook on life?

P.S. I’m hosting a granola giveaway on Trading Up Downtown this morning!