Hello My Dearest Foodies,

As most of you know, I am having some technical difficulties with my computer, luckily today I am fully functioning, although I don't have a new a computer yet. The computer guy is looking for the one I want for a good price, so it will take couple more days. In the meantime he came up with a temporarily solution, so I am back in business!

Anyway, enough about that, because I am sure you are anxiously waiting for your well deserved PRIZES chosen by our HONORABLE GUEST JUDGE @plantstoplanks and this is what she has to say:

"Whew, I don't know if I like being in the hot seat! Haha! It is fun to engage with everyone every week, so it was actually a good motivator to really take a look at each one whereas usually I end up missing some of them. I can definitely see why it is nice to rotate out the judge, though!

The bad news is there is no wrong choice of winners out of all the great entries so it stinks that not everyone can win a prize. The good news is there is no wrong choice of winners so in some ways we all win with all of the great content and tips shared! I enjoy being a part every week because you all continually amaze me with different posts--some of you are stunning photographers, many have a gardens I am "green" with envy over, there are so many great cooks sharing delicious recipes, and most everyone just puts forth a positive energy that I know encourages so many people to get excited about plant-based foods! That being said, I'm happy to relinquish the hot seat"

As you also aware, she was my ASSISTANT HOST this week as doing an excellent job and I can't thank her enough. I must say that besides the annoying computer troubles, this was a heartwarming experience which showed me, how supportive our FRUITS AND VEGGIES Family is. So please big ROUND OF APPLAUSE TO Katie, to winners and to OUR BIG FAMILY that will celebrate 50th WEEK ANNIVERSARY next Monday!

Big thanks to everyone for their contribution! @barbara-orenya, the wonderful artist and creator of the lovely wonkies and our HONORABLE SPONSORS @progressivechef, @donkeypong & @helene 🍒 🍌🍑🍍🍓

AND NOW, WHAT WE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR!!! TRUMPETS PLEASE!!! CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU ALL ! A WELL-EARNED AWARD!
THE WINNERS ARE:

3rd PRIZE 1.50 SBD

To @sherylneil for FRUITS AND VEGGIES MONDAY
“You guys know by now I am a sucker for meal prep, or anything resembling meal prep. I love all of the wonderful ideas for different salads that are easy to make throughout the week. Eating well does not have to be challenging, so thank you Sheryl for showing us some easy ways to incorporate lots of whole foods throughout the week!”

2nd PRIZE 2.50 SBD
To @carolynstahl for DAIKON TWO WAYS
“Carolyn had my mouth-watering as soon as I saw her ramen dish with daikon radish, but then she upped her game even more with the patties and dipping sauce! There are always some really beautiful and healthy dishes shared on Mondays, but this one really topped the list for me this week with her presentation and all of the wonderful vegetables she honored in the meal. I would happily take a serving (or two) of all of it!”

1 PRIZE 4.00 SBD
To @buckaroo for CHOCOLATE GANACHE BABY CELEBRATIONS
“There are so many different ways to go about judging a contest, but for top spot I went with my gut and my heart. This mama has warmed me over with a few of her entries now showing her love for her little one with providing him with such a healthy start to life. Her healthy yet absolutely delectable birthday cake for her son's first birthday was definitely a winner in my book! Avocados, dates, almonds and chocolate – some of my favorite things all in one perfect slice. Using the maple syrup for a totally vegan option shows that plant-based options can be just as rich and celebratory as any store-bought option, plus you don't have to feel bad about what you are feeding your family.”

BONUSES 1.00 SBD EACH

To @jasmink for STOCK UP ON BERRIES!
“I think most of us are suckers for fresh berries, but Jasmin really highlighted the beautiful fresh selections that she can find right in her local landscape! The photographs were stunning, and I had never heard about the Freedom to Roam that allows her to pick anywhere. What a great way to try to make sure everyone has access and nothing goes to waste! I am also a fan of freezing some of summer's bounty to enjoy in cooler months, although many times ours don't last that long... “

To @rawadventuress for WATERMELON GAZPACHO
“This gal always brings something beautiful, delicious, and health-promoting to the table! I am constantly amazed how many things you can make from raw fruits and veggies. This cooling gazpacho was simple yet perfectly balanced to provide refreshment on a hot summer day. There is a heat advisory where I am this afternoon, so I would love a bit of this to keep me cool!

To @birdsinparadise for SUNNY MORNING BREAKFAST PARFAIT
This little birdy always brings something yummy to the table, as well. This parfait she shared with us this week was packed with beautiful fresh berries and oats, but the true star to me was the homemade yogurt. I'm sure that I'm not the only one shocked to learn that it was so easy to make your own yogurt! I always assumed you needed special equipment or multiple ingredients. What a game changer, and the perfect vehicle for all kinds of delicious fruits any time of day.

To @icybc for GROWING FRUIT AND VEGGIES
I was really impressed that her mother could grow cherry tomatoes indoors! There are some really amazing gardeners in the contest, but that feat was quite impressive. The photos you took definitely do those little red gems justice. The homegrown cantaloupe looks perfectly imperfect, as well. And though the critters may take the beefsteak tomatoes, your peppers look like they will make some great meals in the near future! Bravo to all of you working to grown some of your own food!

THANK YOU FOR VISITING AND I LOOK FORWARD YOUR ENTRIES!!!

FOR RECIPES PLEASE VISIT MY Lena's Vegan Living Blog