Breakdown.

TRAINING

Currently, I am training twice a day because I am a fucking beast. It sounds intense but its not that bad. As soon as I wake up, I do 30 minutes of cardio (before having breakfast) and end with core. My second workout of the day comes in whenever I can fit it in. It just depends on my work schedule. It consists of weight training (1-2 body parts a day: legs, bi's/tri's, shoulders, back, chest) and then another 30 minutes of cardio and end with core training. I switch up the cardio doing endurance and interval training every other cardio session or every other day just so I don't get bored. Won't get into the technicalities of it all like what is more effective etc...Gym time each DAY takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours (max)TOTAL. See, not bad. Also keep in mind I am lifting for 20 minutes tops (for now) since I am only training one muscle group per day and I'm not doing 100 different exercises. BUT when I am in the gym, I work my muscles until failure. Lets say I am doing shoulder presses -3 sets/15 reps. -first 15 reps is one set. I am shooting for 15 with each set but if I can do more, I will and I'll continue to push myself until I literally almost can not lift the weights- so the point is I push myself hard because I'm not lifting for very long so I make it count!!

MEALS

My diet is pretty freaking clean. Cleaner than what it use to be believe it or not. Yep, it's possible! haha. The hardest part has been to cut down on fruit because I use to eat massive amounts and now I need to watch my sugar intake. I have maybe 2 servings of fruit a day. Since I can't have protein powder (because it usually always has whey which is derived from dairy..obviously a no no for me), I have a lot of chicken for protein! Just less sauces and "extra" things..less eating out. If I do, I order plain chicken and veggies anyway. It kind of urks me because I am paying extra for something I can easily make at home and for a better price! But, I need to be social and "eat out" with friends and what not..so paying extra for chicken happens from time to time..anyyyywayyyy....

Daily diet looks something like this: (eaten every 2-3 hours)

Breakfast: Protein (4-6 oz. Plain grilled chicken breast ..loving my george foreman grill right now...or baked tilapia)

Veggie (Raw spinach salad with a touch of olive oil, balsamic vinegar if I feel like it...if I want to change it up- cauliflower, broccoli-just any type of veg)

Carb (Steamed sweet potato..usually 4-5 oz.)

....maybe a piece of fruit if I am craving something sweet.

Snack: Nuts (Walnuts/pistachios/or cashews)...or raw/steamed veggies. Sometimes with only a little bit of hummus. Sometimes I have a serving of fruit.

Lunch: Same as breakfast

Snack: Same as first snack. Or I will treat myself to a fruit. hahaha..treat...

Dinner: Guess what!? Same as breakfast and lunch but most of the time I do not have carbs, just more veggies.

Dessert: A small piece of dark chocolate. Saves me. I have to allow myself this.

Pre-work out (About an hour before): 2-3 oz. plain grilled chicken breast and some nuts..Or I will have my meal, either lunch or dinner (depending on when I get my 2nd workout in) and then wait about an hour before I head to the gym.

Post-work out (immediately after): 3-4 oz. plain grilled chicken breast. Sometimes I will take it with me to the gym so I can have it as soon as I'm done working out.

It changes a little here and there. Sometimes I have shrimp or white fish. If I want something quick, I just chop everything up and make a salad out of it using less than a tablespoon of olive oil, half tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and a tablespoon of water for a light dressing. I might add avocado or tomatoes and onions. I haven't gotten too creative yet because this is just easy for now and I don't have much time to try anything fancy when I am doing 2 a days and working.

I don't drink Jameson anymore. I have my moments, but for the most part, I've been ok without it. I sound like a freaking alcoholic. I pretty much only drink water-drink tons of water throughout the day. My Nalgene bottle is always with me. I have tea sometimes...coffee every once in awhile, but I've really cut down on it. Just a personal choice. I'm sure its beneficial somehow? Maybe not.

SUPPLEMENTS

What I use to supplement my bodacious boday....hahahah

Pre-morning cardio: 1 scoop/5 grams of (Fitness Labs) Glutamine -{Glutamine is insane. Look up the benefits}: taken for recovery, 1 scoop/5 grams of (USPlabs) Jack3d: taken for energy

Post-morning cardio: 1 scoop/5 grams of (Fitness Labs) Glutamine

After breakfast: 1 softgel/1200 mg (Lindberg) Double Strength Fish Oil: helps with recovery and its just straight up good fer yer body.

Pre-2nd session: 1 scoop/5 grams of (Fitness Labs) Glutamine, 1 scoop/5 grams of (USPlabs) Jack3d

Post-2nd session: 1 scoop/5 grams of (Fitness Labs) Glutamine

After dinner: 1 softgel/1200 mg (Lindberg) Double Strength Fish Oil

Pretty simple. I should probably take a multivitamin and some calcium or something.

UPDATE-WRAP UP

I am still constantly doing research on meals/diet plans by looking at other successful bodybuilders diets (mainly in bikini of course but I like to look at others just to compare and contrast). Mine coincides with most quite well. Obviously, every body is different and they're at a different place in terms of physique and training so diet will vary a little...but it has helped me tweek things here and there and I take note of what has worked for people. The same goes for training and the exercises I am doing.

I often wonder if what I am doing is enough? Don't get me wrong, I work my ass off but I've never done this before so I don't know what its suppose to feel like, if I should be doing more? Not sure if that makes sense. Soooo I started reading articles and watching videos of bikini/figure pros and their training programs..they all say consistency in training and diet is KEY. One highly successful (pro) competitor says she doesn't kill herself at the gym. She does basic weight training and eats extremely well so that she doesn't have to kill herself in the gym (what a concept). I couldn't believe it when she said that. She does cardio and weights like I do annnnnd she has a SICK body. She too said, CONSISTENCY is key.

Well, I've been consistent and I've been feeling good!!!!! I have moments where I look in the mirror and then I look at the bikini competitors body and I'm like, seriously?.....seriously?...I'm gonna get there? I'm gonna look like that...it seems unreal and in a way unattainable because my body has never looked like any of these girls who compete..its mentally kind of crazy-but obviously I know I can get there AND do well or else I wouldn't be where I am right now-- pursuing this!

P.S

www.bodybuilding.com and www.muscleandfitnesshers.com have been my life saver!..mainly bodybuilding.com- Check em out.

Keep your eyes open for how I stayed on track in San Francisco at Outside Lands!!

LOVE

N A T

A new journey: Buildin that body baby.

As you probably know by now, I have food allergies. It has been a crazy year trying to figure out this body of mine. All that I had been dealing with regarding my body and health sort of inspired me to consider going back to school for fitness and nutrition. I thought that having a formal education in these areas would obviously provide me with knowledge to better myself and my health. Couldn't hurt right? Also, it'd be something positive to do while pursuing acting as there can be a lot of "down time: in this industry. It allows for more hours to work my other jobs, but I also want to continue learning and bettering myself and not just devote myself to working during "off" time in acting. Anyway, I decided I wanted to take that route so I began to research different schools and programs and sent out some emails for info. This was something that I thought a lot about during my last trip to Chicago to see Tony Robbins (it was huge time of reflection and learning!). I came to the conclusion that it was going to require much more time than I was probably anticipating. One thing that was and is very important to me is that I want to be involved in something else but cannot let if affect or take away from my main goal: acting. If an activity has the potential to make me deviate from my priority, it's not going to work. I only say "make me" because school would be a big commitment and if I start something, I need to finish it. During all of this, I somehow fell upon bodybuilding and competing in bodybuilding. The more research I did, the more interested I became. Towards the end of my trip to Chicago, my heart became increasingly set on this. As soon as I got back home, I aggressively researched this world, read stories, and reached out to people I knew who could give some insight and advice. I was so excited I even wrote to people who inspired me in the world of bodybuilding- just found them through google-complete strangers to me! After day one of being back, I was absolutely set on competing.

So heres the news:

IM GOING TO COMPETE!

It is going to take insane discipline and obviously a lot of hard work but it allows for flexibility in terms of gym time and it's not going to be taking up hours of my day like homework would! I have decided that I'm taking my health into my own hands. To immerse myself into something positive and get in the best shape I can, eat the best I can is a great thing. I don't want to focus on what I "can't eat" anymore. I joke about it, but the last few weeks I've really tried to change the way I look at my allergies and my health and my thoughts are about moving foward. I don't want to focus on what is unresolved or how doctors haven't been able to do much for me. I'm going to do something for myself! Mind, heart and body are all connected and with my mind and my heart in this, how could it not help my body!

Now, you were probably freaking out as you read the paragraph above. Maybe you were asking yourself, what does it mean to "compete" ...or maybe you thought, "bodybuilding?! Nathalie wants to look like a man?!?" ......1. I will explain. 2. No.

So here's how it works. Yeah, the sport is called bodybuilding but there are different categories you compete in: Bodybuilding, Figure, Bikini and Fitness.

You can see the obvious physical differences with the pictures below. With the first three categories, contestants pose. With Fitness (not pictured), there is a routine that is performed with specific requirements in the choreography to showcase strength, flexibility, etc.

BIKINI

FIGURE

BODYBUILDING

I have chosen to compete in BIKINI. Oh hey girl.

Do not be fooled by the title. It doesn't take any less time, energy, effort or discipline. It's not a bikini contest where you just want to simply look hot in a swimsuit. The focus is not so much gaining weight (as figure or bodybuilding would require) but to become lean and look more toned and fit than the average person. Yes, I will be gaining muscle, but I will not be as muscular as figure or bodybuilding competitors.

Week one is done and today is my first full day of rest and recovery. Tomorrow, the cycle repeats itself. Its been an amazing and fulfilling journey so far. I am unbelievably motivated and excited about this! I have been doing research on past competitors for the competition I want to compete in and its quite intimidating. I see why certain people place last, in the middle and FIRST! Even though its intimidating, its pushing me that much more and I have a better idea of the body I need to attain.

I want to encourage everyone to do something positive for their health. Its a great feeling to eat well and be active. I have always tried to be conscious of such habits but now I am jumping in all the way! Not only is this benefiting me physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. I have also once again proven to myself the kind of drive and commitment I have when I make a decision to pursue something. Its a great reminder of a positive attribute. You should remind yourself of these things often- even in the smallest ways! The courage I seem to muster up, always surprises me too. It takes a lot to voice your dreams and goals- especially in something that is so foreign! You are in a more vulnerable position and yes, people might actually be able witness your trails/failures but you need SUPPORT and encouragement. So, put yourself out there. You will be a source of support and encouragement to others when you do this as well. Also, every day I am at the gym is a little victory in more ways than one. We know how intimidating that place can be. Especially as girls.......lifting weights on top of that! I have managed to go to the gym each day eager, focused and with a brave heart- asking questions and asking for help from the employees when I need to and not being afraid to be among the "savages" (what I call the guys who congregate in the free weights area).

I can't believe I am doing this, I can't believe everyone knows now!!! I will continue to share my journey and I hope it can inspire you as others have inspired me.

Some thanks and acknowledgments are in order before I wrap this up!

Danielle, an old friend who competes as well in Seattle was so gracious when I first messaged her with my story and a thousand questions! Definitely one of my first inspirations. She provided me with what resources she knew of and was just incredibly excited for me and encouraging. Someone who I have reached out to and has completely been an angel to me is Nickie! She has offered her guidance, knowledge and support and I could not be more thankful for her. She helped me put together my training program and has been such an encouragement. Definitely an inspiration to me! Her first competition in figure, she placed 5th out of 60 girls! How incredible is that? She is currently training to compete in fitness. It will be for the Tahoe Show August 27th, in Lake Tahoe (duh). Buy your tickets for the show at tahoeshow.com and support her!! It hasn't only been these two who have been major blessing but also my friends who I have shared this with prior to this post--Nick, Stephanie, Anlee, Greg, Jaymi, Erin, Lanni and who ever else I have spoken with..all have been sooo encouraging and supportive and it MEANS MORE THAN YOU'LL EVER KNOW! Every little thing, I notice, take in and am so thankful for!!!! ak;sdjf..and my mama, OF COURSE:)

Be brave enough to pursue what is in your heart and to share that with others!

P.s Good vibes, prayers, words of encouragement and any advice is ALWAYS welcomed and appreciated.

Oh and I am planning on competing end of October or early/mid November in either Sacramento, Los Angeles or Culver City (all in california for now)..or maybe all? haha...please pray that I am led to the right one!!

LOVE,

NAT.

Since this is such a long post already, I am going to save the rest of the details (training, diet etc) for another post. Keep your eyes open!!!

Lettuce be healthy.

Clever title for the blog post huh?

Lets get down to business.

When I went to the farmers market last week, I found some great red leaf lettuce for ubber cheap. It was such a large head of lettuce, I had to figure out a way to eat it all because I hate wasting fresh produce. I came up with, what else- lettuce wraps. A quick and easy meal idea!

This is a meal I have been preparing a lot for lunch and dinner. It's really great for dinner because it is light and easy to digest. Especially if you're having it with fish. What's also nice is that you can sub out any of these ingredients for things you prefer in your lettuce wraps. This is just one way to prepare it so hopefully it will inspire you to be creative with yours!

You will need:

(Everything is approximate. You can use as much or as little as you'd like. The more veggies, the better)

-3-4 pieces of lettuce

-1 cup of shredded cabbage (Spinach and romaine are ok, whatever you prefer! I just like the cabbage because it is has a different texture/crunch)

-3 tablespoons of diced raw onions (Maybe you prefer them sauteed in some olive oil?)

-1/4-1/2 avocado

-3 tablespoons of hummus

-4-6 oz of fish (I like cod or white tilapia. You can do salmon, shrimp, chicken. Just some type of protein. If you are vegan or vegetarian just leave out the meat! Consider adding cous cous or even quinoa and/or beans for protein)

You may choose to bake your fish, but a quicker way to prepare it is to pan fry it on medium heat for a few minutes on each side. Don't be afraid- you will only have to lightly spray the pan with olive oil. You're not

dunking it in lard. Still healthy.

Place whatever ingredients you'd like on the lettuce and roll that baby up!

I have found a really awesome garlic spread (garlic, basil, olive oil, lemon juice) and a roasted red pepper spread (hot peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, olive oil, lemon juice, salt) that I've used instead of hummus. They are made with very simple ingredients- no preservatives or anything funky. The goal is to keep it simple and "clean." If you find this isn't filling enough, just have another wrap. I love brussels sprouts so sometimes I have a side of steamed brussels sprouts. Maybe half of a steamed yam or sweet potato?

This is to show you my portions.

Try diced tomatoes, zucchini, corn or bell peppers. When I prepare meals at home for myself, I am very aware of the unique flavors each ingredient already has and I put things together based on that. For those who are calorie conscious, I feel like this way of cooking/eating eliminates a lot of the unnecessary calories because when I cook, I don't need butter, tons of oil, salt/pepper or spices. I don't need store bought dressings and sauces that are filled with too much sugar, sodium, cholesterol etc. And I don't need things like CHEESE (can't have anyway), which people seem to love on everything (P.S.- Processed cheese is horrid. I will share an article I found later!). When I use to be able to eat whatever the heck I wanted, it was difficult to watch my portions. It was always so good that, if I didn't lick my plate clean, it'd feel like a sin...right? Now, I need to be careful with what I put into my body and how much I put into my body since I have daily struggles with my stomach, how I feel and the allergies I have. My palate has become accustomed to this simplistic way of eating. I've started to really appreciate everything for what it actually..NATURALLY tastes like. Give it a try :)

Thanks for reading!

Keep it simple & be creative.

I am allergic to life.

Once again, it has been awhile. I have much to write about.

I think more than anything else, I am most known for my food allergies (I really hope I'm actually known for better things than that). It has consumed my life for most of this past year. Long story short, I found out I was allergic to dairy, eggs, mushrooms and oysters 11 months ago. With in the last 3 or 4 months, after extensive testing, I found out I am allergic and borderline allergic to rice, soy, almonds, oats, halibut, scallops, crab, cantaloup, coconut, black pepper, cayenne pepper, carrots, grapes (which means no more wine. wahh)- and I think thats it.

Needless to say, I have cut out several things from my diet with in the last year. Some people choose to continue eating what they are allergic to, no matter their reaction. I chose to stop. Prior to finding out all of this information, I felt immensely bloated every single day. I felt that I had to stop eating those foods so that could have some type of normalcy in my body again. Well, I guess my normalcy is to feel bloated because I still feel the same everyday. At times to the point where laying down in a fetal position is the only thing that is somewhat comfortable and soothing. I have noticed that I feel sick a lot and will feel nauseous a few times a week. I really thought after sacrificing my chocolate cake, that I would feel like a normal human being again. Truly, I cannot remember the last time I didn't feel bloated.

Since we originally thought my issues were due to food allergies, it made sense that the solution would be to cut these foods out. But if I still am not feeling better, what could be causing all of this? I am not sure. No one seems to be sure. I have seen two allergists and a gastroenterologist since most of my issues revolve around my stomach. Even after a biopsy on my stomach, I have no answers.

I eat quite healthy. I eat out from time to time. When I do eat out, you better believe I modify the shit out of what I am ordering. To the point where I could just make it at home. Most of the time, my go to meal at home consist of a grilled protein like chicken and steamed veggies. Sometimes I'll have a little bit of steamed sweet potato. I snack on a lot of fruit and nuts in between. I manage to mix things up and make things tasty with different flavored olive oil, balsamic vinegar, hummus and different tasty and simple spreads I find at farmers markets. Its not as bad as it sounds. Anyway, I mentioned that because my fairly clean diet still hasn't helped because its not like I am eating allergy free junk (like when I used to eat vegan cookies and what not). The way I feel is always intensified after I eat. I am almost afraid to eat. Before my meals, what goes through my head is, "Am I going to feel bloated?" because most of the time, I do. But I pray for that one time where I might not! I used to take so many different meds like gas-x and pepto bismol, but the issue wasn't and isn't bowel movement and I don't want to continue taking things if its not helping. So I stopped.

What I am trying to focus on now, is what I am pairing together when I eat my meals since certain combinations are easier and better for digestion. It has only been about a week but I have been feeling bloated more than ever! Its odd.

This is my refrigerator the last time I got groceries..

......corn tortillas, hummus, chocolate and cereal are the only processed foods.

Left: Tilapia, Hummus, Corn tortillas, Unsweetened applesauce, Prune juice, White cherries, Red Cherries, Kiwis, Mangos, Plums, Watermelon, Cauliflower, Romaine lettuce, Spinach, Shredded cabbage, Broccolini, Diced onions, Butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts.

Right: Black beans, Kashi shredded whole wheat cereal, Sweet potatoes, Raw and unsalted cashews, Roasted and unsalted pistachios, Bananas, Papaya, Avocados and Dark chocolate.

Almost everything is organic.

With all of this, eating vegan is not an option. Vegan food has soy in it a majority of the time. Well, I guess that only applies to eating out. I have only been blogging about vegan recipes and vegan restaurants but I think from now on, I will be blogging more about meals I make at home, interesting articles I find, my doctor visits if its worth sharing- just my health journey in general. I suppose it will be more of an assortment of topics. I use to have to wait until I made something vegan but I will have much more to write about now.

If you find any interesting articles, have helpful tips or great recipes, and especially any info on what I am going through, please share!

This has truly tested my patience. I have to say, although my faith in doctors is slim right now, I am still very hopeful. I'll figure out this body of mine one day!

Until the next post,

Happy and allergy free eating.

Everyberry loves muffins.

I have a thing for blueberries. I love blueberry smoothies, scones, pies and I even eat frozen blueberries as a snack. I had been craving vegan blueberry muffins and after sifting through a few different recipes online- this recipe (from thatsonetoughcookie.com) seemed to be the easiest and "healthiest." Only because it didn't involve any butter and used less oil. Can't get rid of the sugar though!

You will need a muffin tin, two mixing bowls (small & large), a whisk or large spoon for mixing and the following ingredients.

1/4 cup safflower oil

2 eggs worth of Egg Replacer

3/4 cup vanilla soymilk (I used unsweetened soymilk since it was what I had readily available and the muffins still had just the right amount of sweetness)

1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 cup white sugar

2 cups spelt flour

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

3 tsp. baking powder

1 1/2 cups fresh berries (I used frozen blueberries which worked perfectly fine. It is also cost friendly)

Directly from the original recipe:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease or line a muffin tin with wrappers.

Mix the soymilk with the apple cider vinegar in a small bowl, and let sit for a few minutes to curdle. Meanwhile, whisk together oil, egg replacer, and vanilla. When milk is good and curdled, pour it into the oil mixture and whisk together. Add sugar. In a separate bowl, sift together all dry ingredients, and then add to the wet, mixing with a wooden spoon. Batter will become quite thick and heavy. Add your berries at the end and quickly mix in, careful to not break them.

Spoon into your prepared pan. (The original instructions noted that the muffins do not rise much. Enough to have a round muffin top. If you fill them half way- they will not come out filling the pan. I suggest half way. Just the right portion)

Bake for 35-45 minutes. (I suggest checking on them at 20-25 minutes as cook time will vary depending on the oven)

TADAAAAAA!!!!

Everyone will eat these right up. Next time, I am going to do a little experiment with sweet ripe bananas!

Healthy snack.

Farmers Market, oh how I love thee. I always try to buy produce from local farmers markets. One of my favorites is every Wednesday in El Segundo right in front of Whole Foods. This past Wednesday I picked up some awesome vegan treats (I will blog about at a later time), hummus, eggplant dip, red pepper dip, fresh romaine lettuce, asparagus, carrots, fuji apples, cherries and strawberries.

The strawberries were incredibly sweet and juicy. Tasty on its own of course, but one day, I wanted to spruce them up a little. This is what I came up with.

Topped with shredded unsweetened coconut, sliced raw almonds and pumpkin pie spice. So yummy!

Its simple. Just dice and slice up your strawberries and add as much of each ingredient as you'd like. You can also use cinnamon if you do not have pumpkin pie spice. Just an easy and healthy way to make ordinary strawberries taste a bit more exciting.

This combination is great with oatmeal for breakfast as well. To turn it into a dessert, just drizzle melted dark chocolate on top!

I love fruit. Apples, blueberries, mangos, bananas, pears, persimmons- the list goes on. A great option for a healthy snack or healthy dessert.

FUN FACTS:

(According to www.londonstrawberryfestival.com)

"Strawberries are low in fat, low calorie, high in vitamin C, fiber, folic acid and potassium."

"Strawberries are the first fruit to ripen in the Spring."

"Strawberries are a member of the rose family."

Got Chocolate?

Its been too long! I'm not sure what happened, but I just stopped blogging for awhile. It comes and it goes. As an"artist," I act upon inspiration or that urge to create, and if/when I don't feel it- I just don't. Consequently nothing happens- no blog action. But, feeling absolutely inspired right now, I have an overwhelming amount of tips, recipes, experiments and pure deliciousness to share.

I see no other way to re-start this baby. Heres some chocolate cake for ya soulllll.

So, chocolate...I love it. I also like trying new and adventurous things such as baking a double layered 100% vegan chocolate cake and decorating it. Shivers.

I found this recipe on this website-----> www.instructables.com -It said this was "the best chocolate cake, ever...that happens to be vegan. I kid you not" so I thought I'd give it a try.

The recipe is as follows:

CAKE

1 1/4 cups flour1 cup sugar1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt1 cup warm water
1 tsp vanilla extract1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp distilled white or apple cider vinegar

Depending on what you would like to make, you will need a square brownie pan such as an 8x8 or a 9 inch round pan for the double layer cake I am writing about. The springform pans are easiest. Super cheap from target. Life savers.

1. Preheat the over to 350 degrees.

2. No separating or sifting involved. Just mix that ish together in a large bowl. Grease your pan up and pour that baby in. For a double layer cake you will just double the recipe and bake two pans at once. Easy.

3. All ovens are different so I would check the cake at 20 minutes. It should be a bit moist so if you are testing with a toothpick/utensil, it will not necessarily pull out clean. Just as long as there is not wet batter on it, and the cake seems to be firm enough on top- it should be fine. Use your common sense/best judgement.

While your cake is cooling, you can make the icing!

The recipe calls for a chocolate glaze. Whatever that is. I decided it probably wouldn't be rich enough for my palette so I opted for a vegan cream cheese frosting.

The recipe is as follows:

ICING

1 container of tofutti cream cheese

1/2 cup of vegan butter (I use Earth Balance)

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 tsp lemon juice

(for fun flavors, you can incorporate coco powder or different flavored extracts)

Make sure the butter and cream cheese are ROOM TEMPERATURE. This is imperative.

Using an electric beater, beat the butter and cream cheese together. Add in vanilla extract and lemon juice. Then, slowly begin to incorporate the powdered sugar a little bit at a time. Be careful or it will be snowing powdered sugar in your kitchen. Might be a good thing though.

Make sure the cake is cooled COMPLETELY. Be patient.

Ok, now you may ice your cake.

I saved a little for the filling. Adding some strawberry jam to make a strawberry cream cheese filling. It was really nice with the chocolate.

And thats how you make a completely vegan chocolate cake. It tastes like a normal chocolate cake. Just like that lady said in her blog. I am obsessed with it. Next time, I want to incorporate melted chocolate and also chocolate chips. Maybe even make the frosting chocolate. AHHHHH.

(I must tell you, I tried baking this recipe again but with whole wheat white flour and splenda. FAIL. I do not suggest it. When baking with splenda, things cook a lot faster. Also, I believe that using the whole wheat flour is what caused the cake to be ..well, wheaty and dry- it just completely changed the consistency of the finished product. If you bake the recipe as is- it will be moist and chocolatey.)