So, the challenge, being hosted by the Vegan Culinary Institute, has gone a little haywire since the Vegan Culinary Institute apparently no longer exists. Joel, Kelley, myself and a few other participants are still going, but we've changed things around a little bit. We're not being as strict as we used to be about keeping to the recipe calendar, and we've decided that we'll all share in the prizes at the end of the challenge.

I think these are positive changes for a few reasons: one, this has been a big commitment from all of us and I don't think it's fair that one person should claim all the prize haul. Second, it's been a real challenge from a time-and-money-saving point of view to have to cook all these meals in accordance with the very demanding schedule, or risk being kicked out of the challenge. There's only me in this house, see, and there's only so many friends who are willing to come over every night to be my guinea pig! And there's only so much money in the kitty for groceries every week. If it takes me a few extra weeks to complete all the recipes in the gosh darn book, I don't know that this should matter.

So, that being said, I'm toddling on with the challenge in my own way, and will endeavour to stick to the schedule as much as possible, while cutting myself some slack if I can't stick to it or substitute a different recipe. And to my fellow bloggers, I salute you for your continuing dedication!

Last night's dinner, Pun-Kin Pasta (p.128) with yummy Daiya cheese on top. This was supposed to be dinner tomorrow night. Now I'm getting ahead of myself! Actually, I'm swapping as I have guests tomorrow night, and want to make the Chocolate Coconut Bars which were scheduled for earlier this week, for them. Pumpkin puree was a great alternative to tomato puree.

Today's recipe, Wolffie's Dijon Maple Dressing (p. 98). Sweet n' tangy. All of Wolffie's recipes seem to be fool-proof.

Tuesday's recipe, Curry Almond Burger (p.160) with my new favourite thing, Veganaise. I may or may not have gone downstairs to the Charles Bar for garlic fries to accompany my burger...

Monday's Veggie Goulash (p.140). Epic fail. Mostly because I played fast n' loose with ingredients - substituted broccoli for cauliflower, threw green peppers in, used aduki beans that I had in the cupboard rather than pinto - the whole thing was a bland tasteless mush. Even the brown rice tasted like mush. Yuck.