The Freak Food Gourmet

:: Which 'Whosoever' are YOU? ::

2012-01-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

I will return to my allergy free postings this week, but I wanted to pose the above question to you.

Allow me to explain. It's really quite simple.

The Bible speaks of two 'whosoevers'. One will go to heaven, the other will go to hell:

John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that WHOSOEVER believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Revelation 20:12a: And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God;

Revelation 20:15: And WHOSOEVER was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

This isn't a fairy tale - it's the real deal. There are only two choices, and you get to pick which 'whosoever' you will be.

Join me in having a happy forever!

Because..

2012-01-22T21:22:00.000-07:00

...it's really all about Him, I thought I would share a video of our family praising the Lord Jesus Christ in song. My oldest daughter is on the piano and singing as well.

Happy Praises!

The Sound of My Blog's Comments Section:

2012-01-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

I am streamlining some things in my life and, judging by the viewing results of my blog, I am contemplating discontinuing any further posts.

So, this is where ya'll come in!

If you do read this blog, and find it helpful, I will consider continuing.

If there are just the sound of crickets chirping, my decision will be easy.

My goal and prayer for this blog was to be a help to other folks with similar allergy issues.

From experience, I know how daunting it can be to get that diagnosis and have no idea where to start.

So, it's up to you, blog peeps! Do I stay or do I go?

Doughnuts!!! No eggs, dairy, gluten, corn, soy or yeast. But FULL of Deliciousness!

2012-01-18T11:47:00.008-07:00

I made these babies yesterday.

And let me tell ya....they are divine!

I even had a 'non allergy' friend partake and she declared them delicious!

Wanna know how to make your own?

Then let's start, shall we?

Your Ingredients:

2 cups of gluten free or regular flour (see recipe link at top of my page)

3/4 cup sugar

2 tsp baking powder

1/3 cup baker's cocoa (I used Hershey's Special Dark) for chocolate. (omit if not wanting chocolate)

(For vanilla you may add 1/4 tsp cinnamon)

3/4 cup milk (I used unsweetened almond)

4 Tbs plain applesauce (or 2 eggs)

1 tsp vanilla

2 Tbs. melted Soy Free Earth Balance (or melted butter)

Powdered sugar for garnish

Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Next, add the milk, applesauce, vanilla and Earth Balance.

I doubled my ingredients, which is why the following picture looks like more volume than the above measurements will yield.

Blend all ingredients well. If the dough is really dry or the consistency of play dough, you will want to add more milk. Add just enough to get the consistency of thick waffle batter.

Next, you will need to grease your pans and preheat the oven to 425*F.

My dear mother sent me these pans. They are made by Wilton and sold through stores like Bed, Bath and Beyond (we call them Bad Breath and Beyond).

Fill your doughnut pans 2/3 of the way full. This takes a little patience, as you need a small spatula to spread the dough evenly.

Once they are all filled, bake for 9 minutes. Not 7, not 8, not 10, but NINE. Exactly nine minutes.

Remove the baked doughnuts from the oven and place on a wire rack. Let them cool for five minutes before turning them onto the rack.

These here are the vanilla variety.

Once they have been flipped onto the rack and cooled considerably, use a small, hand held strainer to shake the powdered sugar over the tops:

Which means you can make cool designs like these that look light flying saucers landed on your counter tops. Then you can send them to the National Inquierer.

The doughnuts are best when allowed to cool for at least 30 minutes. If you can wait that long!

Store your doughnuts in a sealed container in the fridge.

My personal favorites were the chocolate variety.

They tasted like fresh from the bakery treats!

Happy Eating Things Everyone Else Gets To!

Out of this World Chicken Noodle Soup

2012-01-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you are a long time reader of this blog, you may know that I have posted this recipe before.

But I think it has improved over time, so I am posting it again - with pictures!

Here are the cast of characters (minus the onion and garlic - they didn't show up on time).

You will need:

One stewing chicken

Two boxes Pacific or Gluten Free Chicken Broth

One 12oz package gluten free spaghetti

3-4 carrots

2 stalks celery

1/2 large onion

2 cloves garlic

Dill, basil, oregano, turmeric, poultry seasoning

First, wash the chicken, being careful to remove giblets.

Set chicken in your mother's vintage 1970-something stock pot breast side down.

Shake on some spices (listed above, except for turmeric) and almost cover the chicken in water.

Loosely cover (leave one side open for ventilation). Bring to a boil and once it is rolling, turn down to medium low to simmer.

Simmer for a good hour and a half, until chicken skin has cracked open and legs move freely.

That was a gross description. Sorry.

Once your chicken is done, place a large colander over an even larger bowl.

Pour the chicken into the colander and let the bowl catch the broth.

Like so:

Break open the chicken a little bit to allow it to cool.

It's never fun to try to pick apart a flaming hot chicken.

While the chicken is cooling, dice your carrots, celery and onion. Throw it into the pot.

Mince two cloves of garlic into the pot.

Shake some more spices into the pot (add only 1 tsp. turmeric and poultry seasoning) and then add the reserved broth from your big bowl.

Oh, and if you like flavor, DO NOT skim off that fat from your broth!

It is essential to the flavor!

Add 1 to 1 1/2 boxes of the Pacific broth to bring the liquid volume up to about 3/4 full.

You want to save room for the noodles and chicken.

Bring the soup to a boil once again and then reduce heat to medium high until vegetables are crisp tender.

Next, add the entire sleeve of noodles, broken into bite sized pieces.

Meanwhile, be picking apart your chicken. Get as much meat off that sucker as you can.

Keep the soup boiling and stirred until your pasta is done.

Once the noodles are done, turn off the heat and add the chicken.

And serve yourself up a nice little bowl of hot goodness on a cold day.

Happy Comfort Foods!

Shout Out! For: The Cravings Place!

2012-01-14T14:48:00.001-07:00

If you're like me and usually make most of your baked goods from scratch, this may or may not be an exciting post.

But it is definitely exciting for those of you who, for one reason or another, do not do a lot of allergy free 'from scratch' baking.

I have sung the praises of The Cravings Place before, but I must simply do it again, dahling.

Yes, I meant to type 'dahling'. It was not a typo. It was my attempt at sophistication.

But what am I thinking? I live in Idaho.

Anyway...

Cravings Place is the answer to your allergy free, well....cravings!

If you are the lonely only allergy sufferer in your family or you simply need to bake for someone who is, these mixes are a blessing!

I have tried many mixes from other brands and have not liked most of them for one reason or another.

So far, The Cravings Place people have delivered on taste and quality.

I have even made their

for non-allergy eaters, and the response was unanimously impressed. They are outright delicious!

So if you just need a quick treat for an event, just want to make something out of a package for once or just simply want some really, really good desserts, try Cravings!

And you won't be disappointed.

Happy Cravings!

Do you 'like' me on Facebook, or do you 'like like' me?

2012-01-11T08:29:00.003-07:00

Well, I took the plunge.

Not literally, it's too cold for that.

Unless you're one of those weirdo Speedo wearing guys that jumps into ice cold water in the middle of January.

(I have absolutely NO IDEA who this guy is. At least he's not wearing a Speedo.)

No, I took the:

Facebook plunge!

I am now officially on Facebook and, mind you, not with any grand delusions of becoming the next Pioneer Woman or Gluten Free Goddess.

I. would. not. want. that.

Fame?

No thank youuuuu.

Just hoping to help along a few more people with their allergy issues that I can't reach through blogging.

So while I'll still be here, I will also be there.

If you're on Facebook, would you please go check out my page?

And if you like what you see, will you 'like' it?

Like, thanks!

Happy Social Networking!

When life gets so crazy that you can't even blog, at least take time for CHOCOLATE!

2012-01-10T09:41:00.006-07:00

If you follow me regularly (all three of you), you may have noticed my absence.

If you don't follow me regularly (all thirty billion of you), you probably didn't even blink.

Oh, well.

But I am back, at least for now, with recipes of chocolaty goodness.

Ready?

Good.

Because today we are talking about these:

These, my friends, are Espresso Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles.

And you may want to purchase the newest Jillian Michaels workout video if you make them.

Because you will eat the entire batch.

I am not making this up.

I must admit that I did not make up this recipe, either. I found it somewhere in cyber space, and have absolutely no idea where. So if you're out there, cookie recipe maker, and you just so happen to stumble onto my blog (*snort*), take the credit.

I did, however, tweak some of the ingredients.

Like making them allergy free.

So, I guess I can take all the credit for this recipe, after all.

Here we go:

Peppermint Mocha Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour (See GF Flour link at top of page)

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup (yes, you read that right) baker's cocoa powder

2/3 cup white sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

½ cup vegetable oil (I used extra light olive oil)

1 1/2 tablespoons espresso powder (I ground it super fine in my grinder)

4 large eggs (I used Ener-G egg replacer)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (Amount is depending on how pepperminty you like it - do not double your extract if you double the recipe. Simply add just a tiny bit more or it will be too overpowering.)

¼ cup powdered sugar (for rolling the cookies)

Combine all of your wet ingredients and blend with a stand or hand mixer. Next, blend together your dry ingredients in a separate bowl and then add to wet ingredients. Blend until mixed well and ingredients form a dough.

* If using GF flour, you may notice that the mixture is dry. Mine was, so I gradually added unsweetened almond milk until I felt it was the right consistency of cookie dough.

Optional: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. I did not do this. I wanted to get at these cookies!

When you are ready to bake your cookies, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (Do this step if you can. I heart parchment paper!)

Roll the dough into 1 Tablespoon sized balls. Dip half of the dough ball into the powdered sugar, then place the ball onto the prepared cookie sheet, powdered sugar-side up. Place the dough balls at least 1 inch apart on the cookie sheet. When you have filled a cookie sheet, very lightly and gently press down on each ball, slightly flattening it.

Bake the cookies on the center rack of the oven for 8-9 minutes, until the cookies begin to crack on top, and the visible insides of the cookies appear gooey. Do not over bake the cookies, as they will become dry and crumbly. Let cookies cool on sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire rack.

And proceed to eat the entire batch.

They are that good!

Happy breaking all your New Year's Resolutions! You're welcome!

Ginger Bread Minus Eggs, Gluten and Dairy - No Kidding!

2011-12-03T14:47:00.003-07:00

'Tis tradition in our home to bake a batch of gingerbread whilst decorating the Christmas tree.

This yuuummmy bread contains no major food allergens.

Unless you are allergic to ginger.

Then you have a problem.

And you probably can't watch Gilligan's Island, either.

I'll let that one sink in for a minute.

Time's up.

Let's get started, shall we?

The cast of characters, minus the sugar. He forgot to show up on time.

First, cream your Earth Balance (or butter) and sugar.

Next, add your vanilla & molasses. I buy unsulphured molasses.

Add your flour and other dry ingredients; blend.

Now you proudly have mud.

Until you add the hot water, that is!

*During this step, since hand mixing does not work for this recipe and you must use a blender, you will want to hold a towel around your mixer. Or your kitchen will resemble that episode on I Love Lucy when her pressure cooker exploded.

Believe me, use a towel.*

Then you will have your batter. Gross looking, I know.

Spread into a pan that has been greased.

Since I have so many gargantuan teenagers in my home,I doubled my recipe and divided it between two 9x13 pans.

Otherwise, I would put it in a slightly smaller pan so that it is thicker.

Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.

Ta da! The finished product!

Serve warm.

Top with whatever whipped topping you can have.

And then waltz with your sister because it's so good.

Gingerbread

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup Earth Balance or butter

1 egg or replacer (I used Ener-g)

2/3 cup molasses (not dark)
1/2 tsp vanilla

2 1/2 cup gluten free flour or regular flour

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ginger

1 tsp cinnamon

1 cup hot water

Cream the sugar and Earth Balance. Add egg or replacer and molasses and blend.

Add the dry ingredients, blend.

Add the hot water.

DO NOT BLEND YET!

Put a towel around your mixer and blend on very low speed. You may find it necessary to finish off the last little bit of blending with a spatula until smooth.

Spread the batter in a greased pan (9x9 for a thicker bread, 9x13 for thinner)

Bake in a 350 degree oven 25 minutes for a smaller pan, 30 minutes for a 9x13 pan.

Serve warm with whipped cream of your choice.

Happy Decorating!

Easy as Pie!

2011-11-23T10:27:00.002-07:00

What are the holidays without pie?

Terrible, that's what!

Just because you're a food weirdo like me doesn't mean you should have to skip dessert.

So let's get started.

The following is the easiest pie crust recipe ever.

1 9" raw pie crust

1 3/4 cups gluten free flour mix (or regular all purpose if you can partake)

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1/3 cup extra light olive oil (or oil of your choice)

1/4 cup your choice of milk

Mix all ingredients together with a hand or stand mixer.

Press into your pie pan and flute the edges.

Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork a few times.

If you want to pre-bake your shell, do so in a 425* oven for 12 to 17 minutes or until golden.

Sadly, I have missed out on pumpkin pie for years because of my egg allergy.

After experimenting several times, I think I have found the best no egg/dairy/gluten/soy pumpkin pie that no egg/dairy/gluten/soy ingredients can make.

No Egg, Dairy, Soy or Gluten Pumpkin Pie

You will want to make this pie a day ahead, as it needs time to set up.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Have ready, one 9" unbaked pastry crust

Blend in blender:

2 c. solid-pack canned pumpkin

1 c. non-dairy milk

3/4 c. brown sugar

1/4 c. cornstarch

1 T. molasses

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. EACH ground ginger, nutmeg and cloves

1/2 tsp salt

Pour the filling into the pastry and bake 60 minutes, covering the edges with foil if they begin to brown too quickly. Cool on a rack, then refrigerate overnight before serving.

This pie is a.maz.ing!!!! I prepared it with the coconut milk. Refrigerated overnight, it was perfectly set. Oh, wow - pure delight.

Pumpkin Pudding Pie

1 pkg. (5.1oz.) vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix (be sure to buy Jello brand, it is free of allergens.)

1 can (12 fl. oz.) evaporated 2% milk OR 1 13.5 ounce can of full fat coconut milk (that's what I use)

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

BEAT pudding mix and milk in large bowl (refrigerate for 5 minutes if using the evaporated milk, but not if you are using coconut milk). Add pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice; mix well. Spoon into pre baked, cooled pie crust. Refrigerate for one hour or until ready to serve.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and remember most of all:

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Psalm 100:4-5

Happy Thanksgiving!

Recipes for the Holidays - Eggless Eggnog

2011-11-14T09:28:00.003-07:00

As of this writing (typing? keyboarding?) there are only

NINE AND A HALF DAYS LEFT UNTIL THANKSGIVING!!!

But no need to panic.

As long as you have that ceiling fan dusted, those windows clean, the walls washed and that stubborn stain on the tablecloth from two years ago when somebody simultaneously spilled the cranberry sauce AND the Martinelli's sparkling grape juice is removed.

If all of that is done and you are having three families over to dine with you, like I am, then really. There is no need to panic.

Did I mention that I am in a state of panic?

All panicking aside, I do have my menu all ready.

And since it is the week before Thanksgiving and the Holiday season, I thought I would make searching for allergy free recipes a little less stressful for you.

So let's get started with a drink.

No, you sicko. I do not drink THOSE kinds of drinks.

I meant Eggnog.

And, NO, not THAT kind of eggnog, either.

This, er..eggnog, doesn't even have any, uh....eggs.

So I don't know why we call it that.

We just do.

Eggless Eggnog

1/2 gallon cold milk (your choice: almond, cow, rice, etc), divided

1 (3.4oz) pkg instant french vanilla pudding mix

1/4 cup sugar (I say this is optional; others do not)

3 tsp vanilla extract (you may want to decrease this if you are using a milk substitute that already contains vanilla)

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

In a large mixing bowl, mix together 2 cups cold milk & pudding mix until smooth. Add in sugar, vanilla, cinnamon & nutmeg. Scrape the bowl to make sure all ingredients are added & mixed thoroughly. Slowly stir in remaining milk, then transfer nog to an air tight container and refrigerate for 30 minutes. It will thicken slightly. Stir before serving.

NOTE: For a thicker drink increase instant pudding mix to 2 boxes.

Also, I have been assured by the folks over at JELLO brand, that their pudding mixes are gluten and dairy free. It is always wise to read the label, though, because ingredients do change from time to time.

Delicious!

Happy Holidays!

Shout Out!!! For the Roastere'!

2011-11-03T20:11:00.004-06:00

Okay, my Freaky Readers, here's the scoop of the week!

If you live anywhere in the Treasure Valley and are peeved that you cannot get a good, allergy free, soy free hot coffee beverage ANYWHERE, search no more!!!!

Because at the

Roastere at Treasure Valley Coffee

YOU CAN!!!!

They use almond, rice or the yucky soy milk.

Their syrup bottles are labeled as to whether they contain an allergen or not.

The coffee is to die for.

The barista is super careful about your allergies.

The coffee is to die for.

There are many choices in latte flavors.

Did I mention that the coffee is to die for?

Until today, I would walk into, say, Starbucks, for example, toting my carton of chocolate almond milk.

Feeling like a dork on public display.

And I would be resigned to only iced coffee, since they have no way of safely heating my milk (or they would refuse).

And there I would stand at the counter, mixing, mixing, mixing away at my dopio on ice in a venti cup.

But today, oh glorious today....

For the first time in years, I walked into a coffee house, sans almond milk carton, ordered a 20 oz vanilla latte, and enjoyed being 'normal' for a change.

It was truly divine.

*The Roastere' is also located in Twin Falls, Pocatello, Salt Lake (go figure!), Denver, Bend and Kennewick. However, I do not know if they also offer almond milk. Give 'em a call if those locations are in your vicinity.

Happy Caffeinating!

Fluffy!

2011-11-01T11:52:00.002-06:00

If you've ever tried to make your own gluten free, dairy free, egg free pancakes, you probably had the same reaction I have every time I make them:

"Sigh. These will do."

Until this morning.

You see, I am sick (cue sad, depressing, violin music here).

And all that sounded good were pancakes.

Even the 'These will do' ones.

Only in the process, I remembered that I always put Cream of Tartar in my biscuits to make them light and airy.

Why not do that with pancakes?

So I did.

WOW!!!!

Light and fluffy, boy howdy!

So, before I go back to bed (cue sad, depressing violin music again), I am sharing the recipe with you!

Light & Fluffy Pancakes (vegan, gluten free)

2 C gluten free flour mix (see link at top of blog)

1 Tb baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cream of tartar

1 Tb extra light oil (I use olive)

Egg replacer to equal 2 eggs (I use Ener-G)

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 cup to 1 cup almond milk (enough to make the batter *almost* runny, but not thin)

Place all dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly.

Add 1/2 cup milk, prepared egg replacer, oil and vanilla.

Blend with mixer.

Add just enough of the remaining almond milk to make an almost runny batter.

Blend with mixer.

Your batter should be bubbly.

In a medium hot skillet (water sizzles on it), spray cooking spray.

Place a 1/2 cup of pancake batter in skillet and spread it thin with the back of a spoon or rounded spatula so that it looks almost like a crepe. (This is key in the cooking process)

The batter will begin to bubble.

Turn down the heat to medium. Gluten free pancakes take longer to cook.

After about a minute, gently check the underside. If it is dark golden, it is time to flip.

Once flipped, turn down the heat to medium low.

Cook the pancake for another 1-2 minutes. Check to be sure it is not getting too brown or crispy.

Total cooking time should be about 4 minutes to cook all the way through. If your pancake is getting too dark, just flip it every so often.

Serve with your choice of toppings (I used strawberry real fruit spread).

And enjoy.

Happy Fluffy Flipping!

Ya Slob!

2011-10-29T15:34:00.002-06:00

Poor Joe.

He was such a slob.

But thanks to him, we have a great sandwich!

Hooray for Joe!

And hooray for allergy free Sloppy Joes!

These babies are perfect for those hectic nights.

First, you will want to assemble your ingredients:

For the buns, I like these Ener-g Seattle Hamburger Buns. They contain no gluten, eggs or dairy. If you can have eggs and dairy, there are hamburger buns available that contain them, resulting in a better bread. I simply slice and toast these on a low bagel setting for about a minute, and they taste great!

For the sloppy sauce, I use Imagine tomato soup (again, no dairy), two small cans of tomato paste, onions, minced garlic and peppers (any variety).

We have a good sized family with four teens, so for this recipe I used one pound of ground beef and one pound of ground turkey.

Brown your meat. Halfway through the cooking process, add the onions, garlic and peppers.

It is also a good idea to throw in some salt and other spices.

I used some cumin, chili powder and whatever else I thought would give the meat some 'pep'.

When the meat is cooked thoroughly, add 3/4 of the carton of soup and both cans of tomato paste.

If you like a little 'kick' to your Joes, add some hot sauce. I didn't heat it too much, so the bottle went on the table for those who like the really hot stuff.

Weirdos.

At this point in the 'Joe' prep, you have two choices:

You can put your meat mixture in a crock pot and set to low for about 6 hours.

Or, you can let it simmer for about fifteen minutes and serve right away on the toasted buns.

We paired ours with a garden salad.

Oh, and a fork. Did I mention that they're sloppy?

Any way you make them, they are sure to please your crew!

Happy Messy Eating!

Lights! Camera! It's Finished!

2011-10-25T14:28:00.002-06:00

The above short film was created by my four teens and their two good friends for their Baptist Foreign Missions class at school.

I hope you will enjoy the final finished product as much as I did!

Happy Viewing!

Have You Been Duped?

2011-10-17T12:44:00.001-06:00

The above video is only a little over thirty minutes long.

That's about the same amount of time the average person spends on facebook.

Please, if you do nothing else today, MAKE TIME TO WATCH THIS VIDEO.

If you think that Americans by and large know who Adolf Hitler was and what he did, you are being fooled.

The younger generations are not being taught what that monster did to Jews in World War II. They don't even know WHO he was, have never even heard of him.

And now, we are suffering the consequences of a brainwashed society.

Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it.

The Freak Food Gourmet

Lights! Camera! WAIT!!!!

2011-10-14T12:15:00.001-06:00

Four of my kiddos (the teens) were assigned a project in their 'Missions' class that could be done via skit or film.

They chose the big screen.

Well, the medium screen, really.

Fine. The small screen.

And since we live right next door to their fellow students and good friends, they paired up to make a short dramatization on the life of medical missionary, the late Ida Scudder.

Here are a few pics from some of the 'shoots':

Here we have 'D.L. Moody' filming his preaching scene.

Here we have the 'extras' cast trying not to laugh at my son's fake beard.

Checking out their 'takes'.

I will post the final project when it's done.

Until then...go research Ida Scudder. She was a pretty amazing woman!

Happy to Have Great Kids!

What a Crock! (Crock POT, that is....)

2011-10-11T14:19:00.001-06:00

It's Fall! It's cooler! It's cozier!

It's time to break out the soup and stew recipes again!

Hip! Hip! Hooray!

My family has been pleading for chili, so now that the Beano is purchased, I can oblige.

And now I am sharing with you.

Yes, I'm that nice.

And I'm going to copy every other food blogger out there and give you a step-by-step pictorial of my "Man, is that GOOD!" chili recipe.

Here we go:

For a 5 quart crock pot recipe, you will want to soak four cups of dry beans in water overnight.

I did not take a picture of that. Sorry.

I did use small red beans and pinto beans in equal amounts.

If you are wanting to make less, simply cut this recipe in half.

After about 12 hours, drain and rinse your beans (this step will greatly reduce your chances of, uh, noxious fumes later on.)

Next, place your beans in the crock pot and pour one carton of Imagine tomato soup. It is vegan, so no worries about the dairy thing. If you can do dairy, a carton of Pacific tomato soup will work fine too.

Ha! Isn't this just like Pioneer Woman? OK, perhaps not. Perhaps not even.

Next, set your crockpot on LOW and let the beans absorb some of that yummy soup for about four hours.

If you don't want to do that because you are wanting to fix it and walk away, then go ahead and follow these next steps right now. Young lady. (Or young man....don't want to be labeled as one of THOSE bloggers, now...).

Next, you need to add garlic. Now, I only added two cloves since there is already garlic in the soup.

Didn't want to go overboard...

Also add some onions....and then some green peppers.

While you are chopping and dicing, be preparing 1 pound of turkey burger along with 1 pound of ground beef. (This adds more protein while keeping things lean...not to mention flavorful!)

You will not use all the meat, but reserve some for later recipes such as spaghetti (think ahead, peeps!)

Notice the cool ground meat tool I'm using? It's at Pampered Chef.

Believe me. You want one.

Next, while your dog is drooling, add half the meat mixture and a generous sprinkling of chili powder.

You control the heat.

I also like to add onion powder, cumin powder, salt and whatever looks good for seasoning chili!

While the dog is still drooling, go ahead and give the batch a few stirs.

Add about 4 cups of water (enough to cover the beans), as the beans will absorb quite a bit of the liquid.

If you want your chili more 'tomatoey', by all means, chop some up or add some tomato paste.

But my hubby is not a fan of tomatoes, and I cook to make him happy, so I don't add any more than the soup.

Cover your chili and cook it on low for about six more hours. You want your total cooking time to be 8-10 hours on low for best results.

Serve with a side of corn bread, and you are set to have a scrumptious, easy, Fall meal!

Happy Chillin'!

Are You Courageous?

2011-09-30T23:40:00.000-06:00

If you are a parent, even a grandparent, or a hopeful parent to be, please go see Courageous.

My husband and I saw this film at the theater today and it was so much more than a movie.

It had the hand of Almighty God on it.

By the first quarter of the film, my husband and I were crying, feeling convicted and utterly surrounded by the Lord's presence.

"But it's a movie.", you say.

No, no, my friend.

It was a sermon.

The conviction flowing through the others in the theater, all perfect strangers, was so thick, you could cut it with a knife.

Truly, the presence of the Lord Jesus was with the men who wrote, directed and acted in this film. The saving grace of Jesus Christ was clearly presented.

No one, no one, can walk away from this film unchanged.

If you have a conviction against movie theatres, but you are a parent or hopeful, consider breaking your conviction this one time. Arrive after the worldy pre-movie previews are played and prepare to be spoken to as though you were in the biggest revival meeting of your life.

You will be a better parent for it, guaranteed.

And be sure to bring a lot of tissues. The manliest of man will need them, I promise.

Be Courageous!!!

"He'd Still Been God"

2011-09-26T17:22:00.000-06:00

Please forgive the shakiness of this video, but may it still be a blessing to you!

On piano and vocals is my daughter Courtney, from left is my son Austin, my 'like a son' Jeriah, my daughter Bethany and my other son, James.

Right On!

2011-09-19T18:54:00.001-06:00

I have nine (9) followers!

Yippee!

*crickets chirping*

Mayo. You can eat it now.

2011-09-17T13:15:00.002-06:00

Remember way back when?

Back when you were able to eat things like:

Potato salad.

Pasta salad.

Ranch dressing.

Onion dip.

Marshmallows for dinner...no, wait. Wrong post.

Well, reminisce no longer, because all of the above can happen NOW!

All because of this new

SOY FREE MAYONAISSE!

I just received my order and I'm so excited to try it!

It is low in calories and fat, has no carbs or cholesterol and is free of dairy, eggs, gluten and soy.

So what are you waiting for? Go crazy and buy some, make a little dip.

And live like all the normal people for a change.

Happy Dipping!

All About Almond Meal

2011-09-10T19:44:00.001-06:00

If you haven't tried the wonderful thing called Almond Meal, you are missing out!

It is not only glycemic friendly but allergy friendly as well.

It is super versatile. I have used it in cookies, corn bread, raw food, and now

PIZZA CRUST!

Tonight I tried this recipe and it is phenomenal! I did cut the recipe in half for a personal pizza.

So here we go:

Almond Meal Pizza Crust

2 cups ground almond meal/flour

3 eggs (Or use flax meal. It is amazing! 1 Tb + 1 Tb water per egg)

1 T olive oil
½ tsp salt
1 tsp xanthan gum
Herbs/seasonings if desired

Mix together. Press onto a baking stone that has been oiled slightly.
Bake in preheated 400 oven for 8 minutes or until top feels dry. Add toppings. I used olive oil and garlic, fresh veggies and Daiya cheese. Bake another 10 minutes at 400 or until your crust is completely dry and cheese is melted.

Happy to be Nuts!

Shortcake! No, no...not the nickname the Fonz gave Joanie. Sheesh!

2011-09-04T15:28:00.003-06:00

When I say "Shortcake!", THIS is what I mean:

Yes. The edible, strawberry kind.

In the wonderful picture above you will find no eggs, gluten, dairy or hidden pictures of Oprah Winfrey.

But you WILL find strawberry, yummy tastiness all wrapped up in a dessert bowl.

So enough yakking. Here is the recipe:

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberries; washed, hulled and sliced

Scones for Shortcake:

2 cups gluten free flour (see recipe link at the top of my page)

1 Tb baking powder

1/2 tsp salt (I use Celtic sea salt)

1 tsp cream of tartar

1/2 cup Earth Balance soy free (or butter if you can partake)

1/2 cup vanilla almond milk (or your choice of milk)

1 Tb raw agave

In a bowl (of course), mix together dry ingredients. Cut in Earth Balance (I use my mixer or food processor to expedite things) until crumbs form. Add agave and milk and blend with mixer. Divide dough into two balls. Flatten them into domes. Cut each dome into four triangles. Space out on an ungreased baking sheet (a stone is best) and bake at 425 degrees for 13 (yes, 13) minutes or until just beginning to get golden on the edges. Remove from oven and cool for about 10 minutes.

Coconut Whipping Cream:

One can of coconut milk: refrigerate for at least one hour.

Open the can (DO NOT SHAKE IT!) and scoop out the solid coconut, leaving the liquid. You can reserve the liquid, if desired.

In a bowl, mix with a mixer coconut, agave and vanilla to your taste until set.

Assemble your shortcake and enjoy it, enjoy it, enjoy it!

Happy Shortcake Days!

Installment One of Raw Food: Mangos and Macaroons!

2011-08-29T12:25:00.002-06:00

This recipe is so easy, so heavenly and so refreshing, you will forget it's good for you.

I have a Blendtec (hip hip hooray!) that makes the sorbet part a snap. But even if you don't own that handy household tool, a blender will still do the trick.

I did cheat and buy pre-frozen, pre-cut mangoes. Because, really, who has that kind of time on their hands?

Also, if you do not have the little tartlet molds, just do what I did:

Make the sorbet and pour into a shallow casserole dish. Freeze just long enough for it to soft set.

Then make the crust and simply use it as a topping by sprinkling it on individual servings.

Mango Sorbet-Macaroon Tartlets - From Ani Phyo's Raw Food Desserts Book

Makes 4 tartlets

Crust

•2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened!)

•1/2 cup cashews

•1/4 teaspoon salt

•1/4 cup agave syrup

--------------------------

Mango Sorbet

•2 cups chopped frozen mangoes

•1 cup filtered water

•1/3 cup agave syrup

To make the crust, combine the coconut, cashews, and salt in a food processor and process to fine powder. Add the agave syrup and process to mix well.

To make the tartlet shells, line 4 small tartlet or brioche cups with plastic wrap. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the crust into each. Using your fingertips, firmly press the crust into the tartlet cup, leaving a cavity in the center to hold the sorbet. Place in the freezer to firm up for at least 30 minutes or more.

To make the mango sorbet, combine the mangoes, water, and agave syrup in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately. Or, for an icier, more solid texture, scoop into a container and place in the freezer for an hour or more.

To make the mango sorbet in an ice cream maker: Chill the mixture in the freezer for an hour or so, then scoop into the ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

To serve, scoop 1 tablespoon mango sorbet into each tartlet shell and serve immediately.

The tartlet shells will keep in the freezer for many weeks. The assembled tartlets are best enjoyed immediately, but will keep in the freezer for several weeks. Thaw for 5 to 10 minutes before eating.

Happy Frozen Treats!

Allergy Free in Your Own Backyard!

2011-08-17T13:49:00.002-06:00

If you have several food allergies and a tight budget, you may want to consider growing your own produce.

Why?

Well, for starters, think of all the money you spend on the things you generally don't make by hand:

Milk substitutes

Butter substitutes

Egg replacers

Tortillas

Cereal

Ice cream

And the list can go on indefinitely. I know some of the things listed above can be homemade, but let's face it: in our fast paced world we live in, convenience often outweighs frugality. Sad, but true.

Cultivating a garden (especially if you have a large family like we do) is a money saving endeavor. It really costs very little to buy the seeds and starts (particularly if you purchase those things direct from an organic farm) and the manure and topsoil. All you really need to invest is some time and a little know-how to get things started.

We have our own compost pile that gets turned with a pitchfork a few times a week. We throw all our coffee grounds, eggshells, leftover veggies and more in the pile. We even put our non-sprayed grass clippings in there too. Once you have a good compost along with chicken manure (two years old or it's too hot and will kill your plants), buy, borrow or rent a rototiller to work it into the soil.

That's all there really is to it. Your garden can be small (raised beds or even in pots) or large (ours is really good sized, but we live on an acre).

We plant Yukon Gold potatoes (oh, wow!), green beans, turnips (for the man, NOT me!), several tomato varieties, peppers, cukes, squash of varying kinds, melons, cantaloupes, peas, carrots, onions, lettuce and much more!

To keep things organic, we buy a product that is simply crushed shells that causes grasshoppers, earwigs and the like to die. For watering, my brilliant husband attached PVC pipe together with drip lines connected that run down each row. By attaching a hose to the main pipe, we water with the well.

And to keep down the weeds, plastic is laid down for tomatoes, vine fruits and veggies, lettuce, peppers and the like. This also keeps nutrients in the soil for more yield.

Behold, the cantaloupe vine.

And the sweetest watermelon known to man.

Got crookneck? Grill it. Amazing.

Nothing like fresh, garden tomatoes.

Oh, and don't forget the migrant workers.

Those are really key to maintaining a beautiful garden plot!

So, start planning next year's garden!

You will save quite a bit of cash and have a sense of accomplishment.

I never thought I could do it, but God has made growing our own food very simple.

Plant it, water it, take care of it and let God do the rest.

And then enjoy the bounty.

Happy Cultivating!

Sing....Sing a Song...

2011-08-08T09:44:00.001-06:00

Our family sang for special music at our church last night.

What a thrill to be able to sing with my beloved and all of our children. I was one happy Momma!

Hope it's a blessing to you!

Keep Singing Happy Songs!

That's How the Cookie Crumbles...

2011-08-03T13:44:00.001-06:00

A quick post today for the chocoholics!

Toll House-Like Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups GF flour mix (see sidebar at top of my blog page)

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup Earth Balance soy free or Earth Balance original (or butter if you can partake)

2/3 cup sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract (Kirkland is safe)

2 large eggs /or/ use Ener-g egg replacer /or/ 3 Tb plain applesauce

1 cup Enjoy Life chocolate chips (if you can have soy, Ghirardelli and Guittard are ok to use)

Cream together Earth Balance, sugars, vanilla, and eggs. Blend well. Add all dry ingredients except for the chips. At this point, if your dough is still dry, add a bit of almond milk to give it that cookie dough consistency.

Scoop by rounded spoonfulls onto ungreased stone or cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes. To prevent breakage, cool on sheet for about 7 minutes before transferring to wire cooling rack.

And then order either the Insanity Workout or The Shred - because you are going to want to eat a lot of these cookies!

Happy Cookie Dunking!

Summer Wraps!

2011-07-26T12:24:00.001-06:00

No, no, no...I did not mean this kind of summer wrap:

Although, if you eat too much of a good thing, you just might need one over your swimsuit.

But I digress...

When I said 'Summer Wraps', THESE were the kind I was referring to:

Thanks to the folks over at Food for Life, you can now make a healthy, yummy wrap to enjoy and savor. I found these located in the freezer at my local Fred Meyer health food department.

With them, I can make all kinds of yummy things.

But my favorite is my very own wrap.

And here we go:

Summertime Wraps

1 Food for Life GF Tortilla (it helps to microwave it for about 10 seconds for pliability)

1/2 avacado, mashed

2 leaves green leaf or romaine lettuce

2 tomato slices

2-3 slices lunchmeat, such as Oscar Mayer Naturals

A sprinkle of Daiya 'cheese'

A drizzle of Annie's Naturals Tuscany Italian dressing

Layer all ingredients down the middle of warmed tortilla.

Wrap and devour!

You will notice this recipe contains no dairy, eggs (we replaced the mayo with 'good fat' avacado), soy, wheat, gluten or other nasty little allergens.

It is also good with sprouts and olives if you're feeling a bit more crunch and pizzaz are in order.

And if you CAN have mayo but decide to make it my way by replacing it with the avacado, you could probably just go ahead and ditch that first wrap we talked about.

So what are you waiting for? You know you want one...

Happy Wrapping it Up!

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal

2011-07-24T16:53:00.001-06:00

A glorious breakfast begins with this:

These are, obviously, Bob's Red Mill gluten free oats. And they make breakfast very yummy.

And cookies. And muffins. And crisps.

If you watch your sugar like I do, you may have given up on oatmeal as it usually has to house at least a 1/4 cup of brown sugar swirled in milk to give it just the right flavor.

But, wait! Don't turn that channel! There is great news!

The following is my concoction for the yummiest bowl of oatmeal ever.

I will give you this disclaimer: It is made in a microwave. So if you are one of those who has all time in the world to boil his or her oatmeal on the stove and scrub the saucepot when it's all done, then by all means, change that step.

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal

1/2 cup Bob's Red Mill (or other GF) oats

Dash or two of salt

2/3 to 3/4 cup water (just enough to cover the oats)

Place all in a microwave safe bowl that has high enough edges to prevent boil over.

Hit 2 minutes on that thing and give it a good nuke.

When done, remove with potholders, that bowl will be HOT!

Stir in:

Cinnamon, raw honey and chopped pecans (or whatever nut you aren't allergic to, but pecans are the best for this) in whatever amounts you choose.

Top with:

I recommend vanilla almond milk as it tastes the best and gives it that final touch.

Stir the whole thing and dive in.

Not only have you had a nutritious start to your day, you feel like you have eaten something you really shouldn't have. But nothing could be further from the truth!

And that is the sheer beauty of it.

Happy Good Morning Sunshines!

It's okay. You can stop giving everyone the evil eye now.

2011-07-21T19:51:00.000-06:00

Unless you don't live by a Whole Foods, that is.

Then keep glaring at them.

Oh, who? Those who can just pop a frozen pizza in the oven or simply pick up the telephone and order one. Without flinching, blinking or checking ingredients.

Barbarians. Every single one of them.

But back to the Whole Foods thingy...

I was in Tigard, Oregon, which is where I grew up. And boy, howdy are there A LOT of weird people there! Just sayin'!

Anyways, I was in Tigard, Oregon and found a Whole Foods. Let me tell you, it is like Disneyland for the food challenged. Everywhere you look there is something a freak like me can eat.

As I strolled down the frozen foods aisle, I waltzed right past (Can one waltz AND stroll simultaneously? Well, I did it even if one cannot.) the frozen pizzas. Why?

Number One: There are never any 'gluten free AND dairy free' frozen pizzas in the frozen case.

Number Two: If the law of physics actually overrules reason Number One and I find a 'gluten free, dairy free' pizza, the cheese-like product that is supposed to be 'dairy free' will actually contain casein.

Liars.

But as I was waltzing by, my ever observant husband said, "Hey! Did you see this?" Which I obviously did not because I was too busy waltzing. But when I took a glance, there it was!

Whole Foods 365 Vegan Gluten Free Frozen Pizza!

Hot diggity! If it says 'vegan', that means NO casein, NO eggs, NO nothing bad!

That baby comes with roasted peppers and sundry other unidentifiable veggies.

Which is quite boring, really.

So I simply added 'safe' pepperoni (because I am not even close to being a closet vegan) and topped it all with a generous helping of mozzarella Daiya cheese.

I popped it in the oven at 425 for about 15 minutes and cut it in fourths, wondering if it would be as good as it smelled.

And it was!

And I didn't even have to give my husband the evil eye for enjoying his pizza that was made at a restaurant.

Because now I had one that tasted like it just came from one. And it was just about as easy.

Happy Lazy Dinner Night!

WHAT?!?!? HOW COULD YOU?!?!?

2011-07-20T14:29:00.003-06:00

How come I just found out about this wonderful little bottle of ambrosia?

How come? HOW COME??? HUH? HUH?!?!??!?

Which one of you has been holding out on me?

And why haven't you invited me over for coffee?

My java experience will never be the same again.

Never in a million years.

Even if I was the last one to know.

Happy Coffee Coconuts!

Twenty Fabulous Years

2011-07-17T13:37:00.001-06:00

For all two people who actually read my blog, you may have noticed my absence. Maybe.

Anyway, I was gone on a second honeymoon with my beloved best friend to the Oregon coast to celebrate twenty years of wedded bliss.

Twenty of the best years of my life.

Praise the Lord that wonderful man fell in love with this freak. It only gets better and better....

Happy Love Fest! (Only if you're married though, ya know...)

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T13:06:00.002-06:00

Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you; Jesus Christ and the American soldier.
One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.

But only Jesus Christ can give you eternal freedom. America can only give you temporary freedom while on this earth.

Thank the Lord today for the eternal freedom you can have through His Son.

Thank a soldier today for voluntarily risking his life so you can have the freedom to worship Jesus Christ.

Thank a family today who has lost a son, father, husband or other family member in the line of duty. They died protecting your freedom.

As you enjoy your barbecues, fireworks and family time, remember WHY you get to celebrate this holiday.

Happy Freedom Day!

What I Will Be Doing Today....

2011-06-28T10:49:00.001-06:00

Call me strange, but it's an obsession of mine. I love clothesline dried towels and sheets.

I could honestly do this chore all day long.

But I have chicken to marinate.

So I will just wash and hang as much as I can.

Happy Fresh Sheet Night!

My problems? Yeah, they're real. But they're also pretty small.

2011-06-23T14:02:00.001-06:00

I just found out the mother of my daughter's dear friends has Stage 3 ovarian cancer.

Wow.

This dear woman has raised and launched two fine sons, a lovely daughter and is in the process of raising and launching two more sweet daughters. She is a wife, a grandmother, a homemaker and a sweet Christian woman. She even works at McDonald's, a job she does not like at all, just to make ends meet.

And I hardly ever hear her complain.

And now this.

It is a good thing our God is sovereign, or I just might doubt his tender mercies.

But even in the darkest of night He is still the shining light.

I wonder...what if you received a diagnosis such as this? Are you a Christian? Would you reject the Christ who saved your soul? If you would, just remember God Himself had to suffer the loss of a child. He knows your groanings, your pain, your sorrow.

And you are cursed with a sin sick body. No guarantees, people. None. We all deserve hell, but we don't have to go there.

Are you lost and without hope? Do you know where you will go when...yes, I said WHEN you die? You have a terminal illness, and it is called sin. And one day, you WILL lay in the grave.

Don't you want to know the One who can give you eternal life and peace in the face of death?

He is Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of Almighty God.

Simply, if you admit you are a sinner in need of a savior, bow your head now and confess that to God. And simply acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the one and only way to have your sins forgiven and washed away. Ask Him to be your Savior, accept Him as your Lord. If you truly and honestly believe He is the Son of God and the only way to have your sins forgiven, then believe and receive. And then tell others of your decision!

When He died on the cross, He who was without sin, became sin for us so that we might be saved from an eternity in hell.

You can never lose the salvation Jesus Christ brings.

John 3:16 says: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Everlasting life.

My dear friend does not have everlasting life on this earth. But she certainly has it after she dies. She made sure she had her sins forgiven by the only Hope of this world, Jesus Christ.

And she agrees with Nahum 1:7, which says:

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

Have you trusted in Him? If not, will you today?

And if you have, will you pray for my friend? Her name is Janet and she would certainly covet your prayers.

Happy to Have Knowledge of Eternal Life!

Thirty Nine Years Ago...

2011-06-20T12:56:00.000-06:00

.... on June 21st, God allowed the most amazing man in the world to be born. Only, he wasn't a man yet, but a cute little baby with a head full of blonde hair.

Well, he is certainly a man now and most of that hair is gone. And instead of being cute, he is ruggedly handsome and strong. What's more is he has only grown to become more wonderful with each passing day.

I am so very glad God formed him so many years ago to one day become my best friend, my confidant, my head and my joy.

I cannot imagine my life's mate being any other.

Happy Birthday, Love!

WHOA!!!! YUM!!!!

2011-06-18T20:27:00.004-06:00

Oh, my heavenly days. I am in love with Almond Meal/Flour. Madly, completely and entirely in l.o.v.e.

Simply substitute 1/4 cup of 1 cup flour (so if a recipe calls for 1 cup flour, you would measure 1/4 cup almond/meal flour and 3/4 cup flour) in your baking recipes.

I made the following cornbread recipe tonight (the same one I have used for fifteen years - only tonight I did the almond flour substitution.) When I bit into the finished product, topped with honey and Earth Balance.....I died and went to heaven.

Well, not really.

But it was real heavenly.

Because in Heaven, the Lord will have a table only for the food freaks. And that table will have bagels and cream cheese, nacho dip, homemade bread with fresh churned butter, Pietro's pizza, Denver omeletes and so much more.

I haven't found the reference yet, but I'm sure it's in my King James Bible somewhere. Or at least the concordance.

Anyway, here's the recipe.

The Most Wonderful Cornbread Ever

3/4 cup almond flour/meal

2 1/4 cup GF flour mix **
1 cup cornmeal

1 tsp salt

2 Tb baking powder

1/3 cup extra light olive oil

2 Tb honey

2 eggs or replacer (I used 2 Tb ground flax seed with just enough warm water to make a thin paste)

2 cups cold water (if the dough is still thick, add just enough additional water to thin it just to spreading consistancy)

Preheat oven to 400*. Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick spray.

Blend together the dry ingredients.

Next add the wet ingredients and beat well with a mixer.

Pour batter into pan and bake for 20 minutes (it may be done at 18, so watch for it to be golden).

Serve warm with honey and butter or Earth Balance.

You are welcome.

**GF Flour Mix

2 Cups Bob's Red Mill superfine brown rice flour

2/3 Cup Potato starch

1/3 Cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Mix thoroughly (I use a whisk) and store in a cool, dry place. I like to keep mine in the fridge during the warm months.

Happy Cornbread Days!

In a Jam?

2011-06-15T13:04:00.002-06:00

I love, love, love (times eighty five billion loves) homemade strawberry jam. For as long as I can remember, it has been my favorite. Well, besides homemade raspberry jam, but I think that only takes a close second.

Anyway....

Up until a few years ago, I was a CANNED homemade strawberry jam purist. Freezer jam was just too gritty and gross. It HAD to be canned.

Until I found this recipe. Booyah!

I guarantee you, the jam WILL NOT be gritty and it will taste exactly like the canned variety.

And it is done lickety split. No sanitizing jars, no hot water heating up your kitchen, no second degree burns on the top of your wrist. That leave a scar. And emotionally damage you from ever wanting to can anything ever again.

Ahem.

The only thing you will need is freezer space - and plenty of it, because this is killer jam. You will definitely want to make oodles of it.

Non-Gritty Freezer Jam

Makes 5 Cups

1 quart fully ripe strawberries, hulled & crushed

4 cups sugar (I used 3 cups or use low sugar pectin to reduce sugar)

¾ cup water

1 box Fruit Pectin

1. Measure 2 cups crushed berries into a large bowl; stir in sugar.

2. Let stand for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Mix water & pectin in small saucepan; bring to a boil on high heat, stirring constantly.

4. Continue boiling and stirring 1 minute.

5. Remove from heat and add to fruit mixture; stir constantly for three minutes or until sugar is dissolved and no longer grainy; a few sugar crystals may remain, which is fine.

6. Fill prepared containers immediately to within ½ inch of tops.

7. Wipe off top edges and immediately cover with lids.

8. Let stand at room temperature for 24 hours.

9. After 24 hours, jam can be used or frozen.

10. Freeze for up to one year.

Happy Jamming!

A Little Leaven....

2011-06-13T18:39:00.001-06:00

If you cannot consume foods containing yeast, you may frequently look something like this:

Well, to be truthful, our model (my middle daughter) can, in fact, have yeast. She is merely doing a very good impersonation of Tammy Faye Baker.

But I think my point is made.

Yeast makes all breads taste amazing. Yeast free breads are usually less than amazing.

My twin sons have a yeast allergy. I have a wonderful bread recipe that we use for their breads (since it is, in fact, a bread recipe. Yes indeedee.) It is fluffy, moist and delicious.

For bread.

But pizza crust is another matter entirely. Pizza crust must be crisp yet balanced with just the right amount of softness.

Thankfully, I have found a close runner up to my traditional yeast pizza crust recipe with the following scrumptious ingredients:

Yeast Free Pizza Crust

2 cups GF flour mix** or any GF flour blend

1 Tb baking powder

1 tsp salt

1/3 cup olive oil

2/3 cup water

(optional ingredients include a bit of garlic powder, basil and oregano for kick)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Oil your pizza pan or stone (a stone is your best bet).

In your mixer, combine all ingredients. Now, you do not want your dough to be sticky. You also do not want it to be dry and crumbly. So depending on your climate, you may need to adjust. Add just enough additional flour to too sticky dough - or - add water to too crumbly dough to make the final product just barely 'moist' feeling - the perfect balance of soft, moist and pliable.

With oiled fingers, pat dough bit by bit directly onto your oiled pan (even if it's a stone - oil it!) just one quarter of an inch in thickness. You can make it even thinner if you like. Press dough outward to form the edges (at this point, you can roll regular or Daiya dairy free cheese into the crust edges if desired). I have a small pastry roller from Pampered Chef that makes this job just a little easier.

Now that you have your dough on your pan, go ahead and pop it in the oven for ten minutes to pre-bake. It won't be entirely baked but it will keep the crust nice and crispy and not at all doughy.

Once your crust has pre-baked, choose the toppings of your choice and place the finished product in the oven for another ten minutes or until cheese/Daiya is melted.

Welcome to bliss, folks.

**GF Flour

2 Cups Bob's Red Mill superfine brown rice flour

2/3 Cup Potato starch

1/3 Cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Mix thoroughly (I use a whisk) and store in a cool, dry place. I like to keep mine in the fridge during the warm months.

Happy Leaven Free Bread Days!

NUTS!

2011-06-08T11:25:00.001-06:00

I found this homemade Nutella recipe at the Pioneer Woman Blog today.

No sugar.

No dairy.

No eggs, wheat...nada!

So I am sharing its chocolaty goodness with you.

I've never eaten Nutella, but this stuff looks marvy.

Happy Chocolate Days!

I Have Been Blessed

2011-06-06T21:30:00.003-06:00

For special music last night at church, two of my daughters and some of their friends sang a song about about how much the Lord has blessed us.

The following video was taken during their rehearsal. My middle daughter is on the far right (in the yellow) and my eldest daughter is playing the piano.

Isn't it good to see young LADIES sing the praises of Christ?

I have, indeed, been blessed!

My sweet daughter is very thankful she took her piano lessons seriously!

I am so glad THIS is the kind of fun these girls like to have!

Happy Blessings!

SHOUT OUT!

2011-06-05T20:58:00.003-06:00

Our friends, Andrew and Kayla Garcia over at the PNG Documentary Blog , have the first trailer for their film ready!

Andrew is a professional, Christian filmmaker (see his other short films and videos here ) with a burden for missions and Bible believing Baptist church outreach.

I have known Andrew and his sweet wife since they were children and Andrew has always had a passion for making movies. His goal is to use media to bring the message of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world as well as inspire those who are saved to serve Christ on the foreign mission field as well as in the United States.

The Garcias spent thirty days with our friends, the Dennis Wells family, the Brad Wells family and the Chad Wells family, all missionaries to PNG. The result will be a film documentary about the mission field of New Guinea unlike anything you've ever seen. The final project will be released sometime in January of 2012.

READY?

I can't wait!

Papua New Guinea Movie Trailer

Just Beautiful.

2011-06-04T08:11:00.000-06:00

You no doubt have gone through trials and tribulations in this life.

Some of those trials have shaken you to your core.

And when it comes, while the winds and tempests are tossing us, we cry out to God, "WHY? Haven't I prayed for so many things? Why would you let this happen?"

This song beautifully explains our Lord's unsearchable wisdom.

And it may bring you to tears once you finally realize just how his mercies truly do endure forever.

Happy Knowing Christ Never Leaves Us Nor Forsakes Us

Talk about counter productive!

2011-06-03T12:24:00.002-06:00

On our way out the door following our workout at the local family recreation center this morning, my sons and I noticed the strangest thing.

Vending machines.

Not the good kind. Noooo....

These were full of sodas, chips, candy bars, cookies...

Yeah, I said the same thing you are thinking right now.

What IS up with that?

Perhaps ensuring that you will make a return trip to work off those Grandma's Cookies?

We did not succumb, of course. We came home and made guilt free smoothies instead.

And here is a recipe!

Antioxidant/Protein Rich Fruit Smoothie (works best in a Blendtec or Vitamix)

1/2 cup frozen blueberries

1-2 cups vanilla almond milk

2 tsp flax seed powder

If you add more berries, add more almond milk and flax powder.

Hit the smoothie button!

You will be amazed at the sweetness of this smoothie. Yes, there is a tiny bit of organic cane sugar in the almond milk, but the flavor comes bursting forth from the berries. They will keep you healthy and the almond milk/flax powder combo will give you a protein punch.

All without the guilt!

Happy Smoothie Slurping!

God Help America

2011-05-30T14:32:00.000-06:00

No fun food posts today. I'm ticked.

It is truly a sobering and sad day in America to wake up and find out that The Hangover 2 broke an opening weekend record at the box office.

I couldn't even get through the watered-down Christian review of that film without feeling physically ill and spiritually vexed.

Take the Bible out of the schools and rename Freedom OF Religion with 'Freedom FROM Religion' and look what you get.

Be ashamed, Land of Liberty. You've taken your freedoms too far.

Sunflower oil - who knew?

2011-05-25T09:07:00.000-06:00

For years I have been an Extra Virgin Olive Oil kinda gal. For everything.

I used it in my sauteing, frying, braising and the extra light stuff for my baking.

But that's until I met and fell in love with Sunflower oil. First cold pressed and unrefined.

While reading up on oils, I discovered that bringing certain oils to very high temperatures can actually change the nutritional value of the oil. Olive oil is one of those. Sunflower oil is not.

So I tried it. And, YUM!

Since you get that wonderful, sunflower nutty taste, it makes sauteed veggies out of this world! I sauteed frozen broccoli the other night for dinner in the stuff - only one of my kids likes broccoli - and it was absolutely snarfed! Everyone loved it. It makes all sauteed vegetables just that much better.

I also drizzle it over my green salads for a dressing. Add a little salt and presto! It is an amazing addition.

For pasta salad, I add a portion of mustard, white cooking wine, agave, salt and garlic powder to a portion of sunflower oil. Whisk it up and pour over your pasta salad. Divine.

Now, don't try to bake with it. Unless you like your cake to taste like sunflower nuts, then by all means do. But still use the extra light olive oil for that. Nothing works for baked goods better.

And to prevent the sunflower oil from becoming rancid, store it in your refrigerator.

Isn't it great to be nutty?

Happy Sunflowering!

Things that really matter...

2011-05-21T14:48:00.000-06:00

Our family attended a funeral today for the ten year old son of our friends.

And my heart is breaking.

And now the things that seemed so gigantic and significant before are now nothing in comparison to this unexpected, terrible tragedy.

Take time to tell the people you love just how much they mean to you. Set aside the petty things and focus on what really matters.

Because you just may not have tomorrow to do so.

What's worse than buying expensive allergy free food?

2011-05-20T23:06:00.000-06:00

That would be shopping for toiletries and cleaning items.

Which I just did.

We will be eating rice and ground beef all week.

Three dollars for a container of pit stick?

Good thing I had that coupon.

Aye yi yi.....

Happy Using Your Expensive Floss and Deoderant!

A Very Real Warning!!!!! Must Read!!!!

2011-05-16T19:49:00.003-06:00

You've no doubt heard about people who have been abducted and had
their kidneys removed by black-market organ thieves? Well, my thighs were stolen from me during the night a few months ago! I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs! It was just that quick. The replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent several months looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in stretch jeans. And then, the thieves struck again!

My rear was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear-end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new rear was attached at least three inches lower than my original! I realized I'd have to give up my stretch jeans in favour of long skirts.

Two months ago I realized my arms had been switched. One morning, I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arm swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. This was really getting scary - my body was being replaced, one section at a time. What could they do to me next?

When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to speak out & tell my story. Women of the world, wake up and smell the coffee! Those 'plastic' surgeons we read & hear about are using REAL body parts on their patients - stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has something 'lifted,' look again - was it lifted from you?

THIS IS NOT A HOAX! This is happening to women everywhere, every night, while they sleep!

WARN YOUR FRIENDS! Last year I thought someone had stolen my boobs! I was lying in bed and, suddenly, they were gone! But when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my armpits as I slept. Now, I keep them hidden in my waistband.

P.S. Those same thieves just came into my closet and shrank my clothes!

How do they do that????

~ Borrowed word for word from an email. Hope you enjoyed the laugh as much as I did!

While We're on the Subject of Food and Eating......

2011-05-14T08:05:00.000-06:00

Time to till the garden!

2011-05-04T11:05:00.002-06:00

Each year we put in a pretty large garden. Unfortunately, it has been so cold here in Idaho that we haven't been able to till it until now. The cold hasn't stopped the dandelions one bit though. They have been throwing parties in our yard and the garden plot, complete with party hats. So we had to crash their festivities first before the ground could be prepared.

Speaking of party poopers, do you have any idea just how much two year old chicken manure and compost you have to use for a fairly large garden?

It's a lot.

Thank you, chickens. You did your part.

But one thing I have not planted yet is strawberries. I think next year I might be brave enough to try. They just sound complicated to me, and 'complicated' is not one of my favorite subjects right now. It makes me grumpy.

But until I become brave enough, I buy strawberries by the flat. Strawberries really do make me happy.

And the recipe below makes me happy as well - and I know it will make you happy too.

Until you go to button last year's capris, that is.

Then you'll be the grumpy one.

Until you have another slice. Then you won't care.

Fresh Strawberry Cake

• 2 1/4 cups *GF flour (or wheat if you can partake)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 cup butter (I use soy free Earth Balance)

• 1 1/2 cups sugar (You can reduce to 1 cup - I do - or use the equivalent in agave syrup)

• 2 large eggs (I use Ener-g egg replacer or 4 Tb plain applesauce)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 3/4 cup fresh hulled and crushed strawberries, unsweetened (Throw 'em in the blender - it's easier)

Preheat oven to 350.

Cream together: butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Beat for three minutes.

To that add the flour, salt, and baking powder.

Beat for two minutes.

Then add the crushed strawberries.
Beat for one more minute.

Pour batter into 9x13 greased cake pan.

Bake in pre-heated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool pan on wire rack for fifteen minutes. Run a knife around the edge to loosen cake and turn out on to wire cooling rack to cool entirely.

If desired, serve with rice, soy or dairy whip. Or whip up a can of chilled coconut milk for a topping.

Yum yum!

*GF Flour

2 cups Bob's Red Mill superfine brown rice flour

2/3 cup Potato starch

1/3 cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Happy Gardening!

My Kids' Favorite Bread

2011-04-28T10:01:00.001-06:00

If you're thinking the girl in the above picture is a leetle creepy looking, you're right.

But it has bread in it.

And that is today's topic.

Hence the creepy bread and jam girl picture.

My twin sons cannot eat yeast. Yes, that throws a kink in shopping. Yes, it is a pain. But I have at least finally found success with a recipe they absolutely love.

I have tried countless salt rising bread recipes. I have tried countless baking powder rising recipes. But with the gluten free flour, the loaves usually come out pretty heavy instead of light and fluffy.

The following recipe has been the answer to my bread making prayers. The kids absolutely love it and claim it tastes 'just like real bread'! Whatever 'real' means. Anyway...

The only drawback to this bread is that it requires egg whites. I have tried it without the eggs so that I can partake but it wasn't successful. At all.

So if you can eat eggs, you're set to make the best yeast free bread on the planet.

Here we go:

Yeast Free Bread (from the Blendtec Lifestyles recipe book)

1 cup milk (either dairy or your choice of substitute milk)

1/3 cup extra light olive oil (Don't substitute this with another oil. You will regret it.)

2 egg whites

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsps baking powder

1 T sugar

1/2 cup quick cooking oats OR quiona flakes

1 1/2 cups *gluten free flour (or regular flour if you can have it)

If you own a Blendtec blender, simply place all ingredients in the blender in the order listed. Press the speed up button until it reaches speed 6. Allow to run for 30 seconds.

If you don't own a Blendtec, BUY ONE! But until then, simply place all your ingredients in a blender and blend on medium high speed for 30 seconds (I haven't tried this personally, but I'm guessing it would work just fine.)

The reason for putting the dough through the blender to mix is you want those egg whites to get nice and fluffy. A mixer just doesn't do the trick. Trust me on this one.

Grease a 4.5 x 8.5 loaf pan. Place the dough in the pan and bake in a 350* oven for 40 minutes or until golden and toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edges of the loaf to loosen and gently turn out the loaf onto wire rack.

If I want to make two loaves, I do not double the recipe. It doesn't turn out right. But it really only takes a few minutes to put together another one. And then you can bake both loaves at the same time.

*GF Flour

2 Cups Bob's Red Mill superfine brown rice flour

2/3 Cup Potato starch

1/3 Cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Mix thoroughly (I use a whisk) and store in a cool, dry place. I like to keep mine in the fridge during the warm months

Happy Baking Day!

My Cup Runneth Over

2011-04-25T14:53:00.001-06:00

Three of my dear children sang for the Easter service on Sunday. Can I just say what a blessing it was to see my children singing to the Lord? There is absolutely nothing like it.

You will have to pardon the distance of the video - I am a novice. And I'm also afraid my camera picked up a little too much of the instruments on the first one. But it will still bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.

In the first video, my oldest, Courtney, is in all white and the third from our left. My second daughter, Beth, is second from our right in the yellow. The song is entitled 'Paid in Full'.

This next video is the second song entitled 'I Shall Return'. Beth is second from our left in the yellow and Courtney is next to her in the white. One of my twin sons, James, is next to her in the argyle vest. This song made me want to jump out of my chair and run the aisles. But I'm a lady. So I didn't.

Enjoy these songs and be blessed because of what our Lord Jesus Christ did for us on the cross of Calvary. He paid your sin debt in full by dying on that cross for your sins. He then rose from the grave three days later - and he WILL return for those who have accepted him as Lord and Savior.

Is he coming back for you?

Happy Listening!

She's 17. Seventeen. Sev - en - teen. Be still my heart....

2011-04-22T23:35:00.000-06:00

I swear...she was exactly this size just yesterday....

All eyeballs and chub....

When did she lose her cheeks?

When did she grow up?

Happy Birthday to my beautiful girl.

Um...I'll explain this in my next post. She really is lovely, you know.

Shopping Etiquette 101

2011-04-21T09:58:00.006-06:00

In order to eat allergy free, we all have to do one thing first. Can you guess what that is? Aw, c'mon...try!!! I'll give you a hint: It has to do with half your budget (if you have four teens like I do), a cart and a semi automatic shotgun. Well, okay, maybe not the shotgun.

But I'll bet you guessed it! That's right...we have to GROCERY SHOP!

But if you're anything like me (heaven forbid!), you've probably noticed that in the last few years, grocery shopping etiquette has taken a trip through the back warehouse exit. Not only do shoppers seem stressed and worn in the mayonnaise aisle, they seem downright rude in the deli department while waiting for their orders of corned beef and bacon. And the occasional order of jo jo potatoes and fried chicken. Which I can't eat anymore.

Anyway...

So I have taken it upon myself as part of a fellow grocery shopper's duty to remind all three people who read this blog just HOW we should wheel our carts through the aisles - and what to do when you're in less than a chipper mood.

I have gleaned some 'Do's and Dont's For Grocery Shopping' from my recent experiences. The following stories are true. And I haven't changed any names to protect the innocent. Because I didn't stop long enough to ask them what they went by.

Let's begin with the negative: The Dont's

Upon entering a grocery store, DON'T stop at the grocery cart retrieval section to text on your phone or file your fingernails.

If you are in the aisle, and especially if it's crowded, and you see your long, lost Aunt Wanda...DON'T stop in the middle of the aisle to catch up. Unless you're in the ketchup aisle! Wahahaha!

But, seriously, DON'T. While you're enjoying your little chit chat, the rest of us can in no way get to the Bumble Bee tuna or the dill relish. It is really quite rude. So if you must talk, pull over in a less travelled spot.

If you just must take that cell phone call, PLEASE do us all a favor and keep it light. We really DON'T want to know about how your boyfriend cheated on you with your sister's neighbor and all the expletives you yelled at him when you found out. And we really DON'T need to know about your father's personal problems or any other gory details that are best left private. Hang up and shop!

If someone is in between you and the bulk popcorn, DON'T sigh heavily and roll your eyes to get them to move. Be a big boy or girl and say "Excuse me." Really. It works.

If you are wanting to grab a carton of Silk Almond Milk and someone is already at the refrigerator door getting theirs, DON'T hold the door under the pretense of being nice, only to dive in for your own once they turn around. Wait your turn. Honestly, you really will get your carton. Sheesh.

If you are wandering down an aisle with your unruly kids, first, get a book on child training. Then come back to the grocery store when they can learn to behave. But back to my point, if you are wandering down the aisle with your kids who obey worse than the family dog, go back home. DON'T bring those spawns of Ozzy Osbourne into the store. You're the parent. Train them to behave.

When in an aisle, DON'T leave your cart smack dab in the middle and then wander off to look for the product you want. Keep your cart with you at all times. Likewise, DON'T park it right in front of the yogurt and then walk off to find the least expensive butter. No, no, no!

This one is really important. MEN: If you are part of the dwindling species of GENTLEMEN out there, DON'T make us ladies think otherwise. DON'T cut a lady off to get to the okra and turnips. And really, DON'T try to cut her off in toilet paper aisle and say "It's a race! It's a race!". Because that's what happened to me recently. Let's just say the guy felt really stupid when he left aisle 18.

I use coupons. They save me a lot of money. But, please...DON'T get in the checkout line and argue with the cashier over your fifty cents of free groceries. Your coupon probably really is expired.

If someone is at the deli counter before you but the employee doesn't know that, DON'T let her help you before the other guy. Tell the truth and wait your turn!

And now for the positives: The Do's:

When going for the green onions at the same time as someone else, DO smile and move to the side so you can both partake.

When coming out of an aisle at the same time someone else is attempting to go into it, DO smile and make a joke about how we need horns and turn signals on the carts.

If you see an elderly person, DO wait for them to go by. It's called respect.

When loading up on the latest sale item, DO leave some for the next guy. How many boxes of Peanut Butter Panda Puffs can you realistically go through anyway?

When in the checkout lane at the bag-it-yourself store, DO move your cart to the proper spot so the next customer can move their cart to the other bagging lane with ease.

DO smile. Even if you're in a frenzied hurry. It makes the other shoppers relax a little and you'll feel less grumpy when it's all said and done.

DO help the person in the assisted motorized shopping carts get the items off the high shelves. Especially if it is an elderly man or woman. What's ten seconds of your time?

And finally, and most important, DO pray before you go. Not only for prices to stretch your budget, but for a good attitude and kind spirit.

__________________________________________

And now that I've got you thinking about shopping, DO put the following items on your list so you can make:

Allergy Free Rice-a Roni

2 cups unconverted rice (I like brown or jasmine)

1 32oz container of chicken broth (such as Pacific)

1/2 - 1 cup (depending on how noodly you like it) gluten free spaghetti, broken in pieces (Ancient Harvest or Tinkyada)

Spices: Dill Weed, Basil, Oregano, Garlic

When you get home, put one teaspoon of each spice into a medium sauce pot. Add the rice and stir. Next add the broth - the entire container. Put on a lid, bring to a boil and then turn down to low to simmer. When about 3/4 of the liquid is still present, add the little broken pieces of spaghetti and give it a stir. Replace the lid and continue to simmer until all the liquid is absorbed.

YUMMY!

Happy Grocery Shopping!

Fiesta!

2011-04-18T12:24:00.002-06:00

I am officially on the mend - although, it seems as though pneumonia or bronchitis is setting in. I can't tell which. So while I'm not one hundred percent, I am getting there. And after almost two weeks of not shaving my legs or clipping my toenails, we are back in business. After clipping and shaving, that is.

But I am slipping away from the entire reason for this post...

Which is this:

While coming out from my coughing coma, I was hungry. But for what, I did not know. So my amazing husband went to the freak section of our local health food store and found the above little packages of heaven.

You will only understand what I mean if you've been grounded for any length of time from microwave burrito goodness. I could care less for burritos before the lab results. Now that I can't have them, I want them. Frozen Reeser's burritos, microwaved just right and swimming in a sea of beany temptations. Oh, yeahhhh.

Let me tell you - these Amy's gluten, dairy and practically everything free burritos are really, really good! They are a very close twin to the real thing! I was hesitant at first, seeing as how the first few ingredients are GARBANZO BEANS for the tortilla and PINTO BEANS for the filling. That just seemed like overkill for the small and large intestine and trouble for those present in the room with me.

But it seems my worries were without need.

And now I am addicted.

Which is not good when you consider the three dollar price tag...for EACH.

But I'm just glad they're available.

Now what are you waiting for? Go grab some burritos and....

Fiesta Feliz!

Misery is spelled: I-N-F-L-U-E-N-Z-A

2011-04-15T15:45:00.001-06:00

If you are wondering just what it feels like to have the honest to goodness influenza, well it's something like the above picture. Only, you would be on the other end that the wires are attached to. And Crazy Harry would be detonating the dynamite over and over and over again. And again. And yet again.

I never want to be exposed another time. Ever.

It made me want my mommy and my teddy bear.

And after nearly a week in bed I am going a little cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs.

And after taking a second look, I think the above picture actually resembles me a little bit. Yes, as a matter of fact it does.

And now I am going back to bed. Once more.

Did I mention how much I love NyQuil? During the day?

Because I do.

Happy....uhhhh...

What Do the Freaks Eat When They're Sick?

2011-04-07T14:35:00.001-06:00

Remember the days before you found out you were a Food Freak? When you got sick, you likely asked for a bowl of this:

...because that is ALL that sounded good. NOTHING else would do.

But now....you are...ruined. Because once you've had a steaming bowl of that MSG laden, wheaty, egg noodle goodness, you can't imagine anything else comforting your sick little self.

Until Now!

Because by boiling two cups of this:

..along with a cup of these, broken up:

...with a pinch of dill and bit of curry powder, you can once again have a comforting bowl of soup very much resembling the Lipton brand that once soothed your aching throat and icky tummy.

There, there now. We'll make it all better. Yes, we will.

Happy Tummies!

Never a Dull Moment....

2011-04-05T16:40:00.000-06:00

The above photo is of my seventeen year old baby - in the E.R.

If you don't know by now, the influenza is 'going around'. But what you may not know is that there are at least THREE strains. And once you come down with one, the other is lurking right around the corner to nab you.

My daughter had only been sick for three days when we made the trip to the hospital on a Sunday. Had we waited one more day, the doc would have admitted her to stay. Fortunately, she improved after two quarts of fluid, although it did take them some time to bring her almost 104 degree fever down to just over 101. The flu is that nasty.

The E.R. Doc said to pass on this information: If you display any two of the following symptoms, stay home until you are symptom free - even if you don't have fever! A common myth is that you are only contagious as long as you have a fever. Nothing could be further from the truth!

The Symptoms of Influenza:

Coughing

Sore throat

Runny nose/head & chest congestion

Fever (anything 99 and above)

Nausea/vomiting

Body aches/joint pain/chills/sweats

Difficulty breathing

Fatigue/lack of appetite

Headache that is not relieved with painkillers

The importance of staying home until you are symptom free is this: The influenza will reside in our bodies for at least seven days. During that time, you may 'feel better' or think you are 'on the mend', but that is a mistake. As long as you have any two of the above symptoms, you are contagious - even if it's a headache that won't go away.

My point for this post: Simply put, if a healthy seventeen year old girl can land in the hospital after suffering with this nasty virus for only a few days, consider what it may do to someone with a compromised immune system. Think of the elderly, the very young, those with cancer, Lupus or other immune illnesses. They could likely die should they contract the influenza. You may feel you are 'well enough' to resume your group activities, but the person sitting next to you or even in the same room as you may not sail through the flu as well as you did. My daughter is proof positive of that.

Our oldest girl is finally on the mend, but home from school for the week or until symptoms disappear entirely - doctor's (and Mommy's!) orders.

Be thoughtful....be courteous.....be aware of those around you. And PLEASE stay home if you have the flu.

And if you are reading this and are indeed sick....

Happy Recovering!

Life Without Bacon is Just Plain Life

2011-04-02T10:32:00.001-06:00

The above picture, my friends, is proof that God is showering blessings on those of us who are food challenged.

Indeed, indeed.

Not only is this bacon free of all major allergens, it is also nitrate and nitrite free. Since I'm not into eating all those nasty 'trates' and 'trites' it is the perfect fit for our family.

A word of caution about this bacon, though: Watch it closely as the delicious, fatty goodness sizzles in the pan - it cooks up FAST. I am a crispy bacon person myself, but there are those of you who like your bacon to be.....*shudder*.... floppy.

If so, you need counseling.

Where was I? Oh, yes. It cooks fast. So turn often and don't walk away from the skillet.

And bask in your bacon bliss.

Happy BLT Day!!!!

Like a Little Coffee With Your Creamer? Never Fear...

2011-03-27T15:16:00.016-06:00

Given up on your morning cup because you just can't put that creamy, dairy goodness called 'International Somethingoranother' in your joe? Well, I am here to save the day. Yes I am.

I posted something similar a few years ago. And if I were technologically savvy, I would have put the link to that post under the words of the last sentence. But I'm not savvy that way.

But coffee is such an important subject that it bears repeating. At least every six months. If not more. Which makes it just as important as your dental checkups. Even though your dentist would disagree.

But I digress...

With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can get dairy free coffee house coffee without the ninety billion dollar price tag. So I exaggerated by a few bucks. It seems that expensive anyway.

All you need to do is this:

Get your favorite milk substitute. Mine is Silk Almond Milk - Vanilla.

Grab your Magic Bullet. If you don't have one - BUY ONE!

Or a blender will do. But not as nicely.

Fill your Magic Bullet blending cup (I use the one without the handle) to the first line with your almond milk

(or coconut milk or whatever you like to use). Add sweetener if you want. But I think that is just wrong.

Microwave for one minute. REMOVE FROM MICROWAVE (that's really important).

Pour hot, freshly brewed coffee into the heated 'milk' until the combination reaches the top line. Not the top. Just the top line.

Secure the blending attachment with the four blades.

Invert and blend for eight seconds. Exactly. Eight. Seconds.

Turn right side up again and let all that frothy yumminess come to the top.

Unscrew the lid and pour your delicious cup of heaven into your favorite large mug.

Trust me. You will now have a truly decadent cup of coffee house coffee, dairy free and without any risk of cross-contamination.

Happy Caffeinating!

Communication - Not to be Confused With Communicable, of Course

2011-03-25T13:18:00.001-06:00

Yes, you guessed it. I am digressing from my normal 'food obsessed' posts and writing about something that the entire human race needs to improve on: communication.

Oooohhh, that little five syllable word that not only has the power to divide nations, split families, and end friendships but to also bring peace in wartime, heal a marriage and begin friendships.

Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines Communication as: "The act of imparting, conferring, or delivering, from one to another; as the communication of knowledge, opinions or facts; Connecting passage; means of passing from place to place; as a strait or channel between seas or lakes, a road between cities or countries, a gallery between apartments in a house, an avenue between streets; correspondence; good understanding between men."

I did the unbelievable on Sunday. I deleted my Facebook account. I know, I know! "Heresy!", some cry. "Are you insane?!?", others shout. Maybe I am. But that's beside the point.

One of the main reasons I deleted Facebook is simply this: meaningful communication was lacking in my relationships. See, I found that if I made a cute comment on someone's status that somehow, we were 'in touch'. Now, don't get me wrong. It was a fabulous way to keep up with long distance friends and family. But to be truthful, I knew more about those people because of Facebook than if they were living down the street or in the same town. I began to suspect that maybe I knew too much. And our 'relationship' consisted of one-liner comments and practically nothing deeper than that. To be truthful, I almost felt like a creeper who was looking into their windows at night.

And then there were the 'Famous Facebook Disagreement Posts'. That's when it went beyond one-liners. In fact, so much so, that we were typing things to one another that we wouldn't dare say to each other in person, let alone with a crowd gathered around. How embarrassing.

So this post, my friends, is to get you thinking about how you communicate with your friends and loved ones. I am not telling anyone to delete their Facebook. If you have one, that's no business of mine. But ask yourself this: Do you rely more on social media to communicate than other methods? By 'other methods' I mean letters, the telephone, meeting and conversing, even email. What is your standard method? If you answered 'none of the above' and you rely solely on social networking, perhaps it's time to reevaluate your methods of communication.

When I was in high school, my now husband and then boyfriend and I wrote letters to each other. Every single day. Of course, that was back when a postage stamp was twenty cents! But he lived in Idaho and I lived in Oregon. There were two choices: long distance telephone (EXPENSIVE!) or writing letters. For two kids living on our paychecks from the Target Snack Bar and Pizza Hut, the choice wasn't hard. It took maybe only fifteen minutes a night to write a letter, place it in an envelope, address and stamp it and place it in the mail box. And when I received his letters, it was like receiving a little piece of 'him'.

But my absolute favorite part of the letters is this: we still have them. Now, unless you print out everything your sweetheart tweets, comments or emails you, those sentiments will be gone forever. But we have a treasure in those letters - the handwriting, the goofy things we wrote on the envelopes...they are priceless.

I must say, I'm glad I had my experience with Facebook. It opened my eyes to how far to the opposite side of 'traditional communication' that society is swinging. And it brought out the glaring errors I have in my own life when it comes to staying in touch with my loved ones.

But I leave you with this challenge:

When was the last time you actually communicated with someone outside of your home? By that, I mean, when did you last write a letter? Send a card of encouragement? Pick up the phone (NOT texting!) just to see how someone was doing? If it's been a while, why not shock someone this weekend? Pick up a ninety-nine cent card at the store and handwrite that you are thinking of them. You may just send someone into shock! Incorporate meaningful conversation into your life. Not everyone has to eliminate their other methods. I still email and text. And I obviously still have a blog. But I want to encourage you to be real again. Take a friend out for coffee. Call your mom or dad - yes, on the phone! Write a love letter to your spouse. Take your kids out for ice cream and talk.

Communication = Connection

Happy Conversing!

Anyone? Anyone? Beuller?

2011-03-23T21:35:00.000-06:00

This could be your big day. I mean a really big day. Huge. Large. Ginormous. Gargantuan. Big.

Because out of all three people who actually view this blog, YOU, yes, I said YOU, could be the one to choose my next.....wait for it, now.....TOPIC. That's right. About food. Or allergies. Or food allergies.

So, how about it? For all I know, I am talking into cyber space, but I am giving it a shot.

Any takers?

Happy Brainstorming!

Pizza. How Do I Love Thee? Even More Now.

2011-03-05T19:50:00.033-07:00

One of the worst part of food allergies: no pizza with cheese. The other: no omelettes.

The good news: pizza can be fixed. The bad news: no such luck on omelettes. Yet.

I have finally - after five years of not having eaten even a sliver of cheese - made a 'real' pizza. With cheese. I didn't want to speak to anyone during dinner. I was having too much fun. Or was I falling in love? I cannot tell.

I owe my gratitude to the folks over at Daiya Vegan Cheese. http://www.daiyafoods.com/

Now, before you gag and roll your eyes, let me assure you of one thing: this cheese is GOOD. It's not Tillamook, but it is good.So good, in fact, I am sharing my complete pizza and cheesy bread recipes with you. Because you are going to want to make this. Right away. Or tomorrow. Or both.

Pizza Crust - GF/DF/EF

1 Cup warm water

1 Tb yeast

1 Tb sugar

1/4 tsp salt

1 Tb olive oil

2 Cups GF flour or more (recipe below)

In a mixing bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in water. When bubbles form, add oil, flour and salt. Beat well with mixer. Add more flour until dough is no longer sticky but pliable. Pat out onto an oiled stone. Bake at 400 for ten minutes. Remove from oven and set aside.

Top the partially baked crust with sauce (recipe below), toppings and Daiya cheese. You won't want to use as much Daiya as you do dairy cheese. A little goes a long way. As a rule, use half the amount you normally would.

Bake the pizza for another ten to fifteen minutes, or until cheese is entirely melted and the crust is almost golden.

Pizza Sauce

1 6oz can tomato paste

Splash of white cooking wine

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tsp agave nectar or sugar

1/2 tsp salt

Crushed basil & oregano to taste

Place all ingredients in a small saucepot. Simmer on low for ten minutes, stirring often.

GF Flour

2 Cups Bob's Red Mill superfine brown rice flour

2/3 Cup Potato starch

1/3 Cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Mix thoroughly (I use a whisk) and store in a cool, dry place. I like to keep mine in the fridge during the warm months.

Bread Sticks

Grease a 9x13 casserole dish. Using the same recipe as for the pizza crust, pat half the dough into the dish. Dot with Earth Balance http://www.earthbalancenatural.com/ and sprinkle with Daiya Cheese. Sprinkle garlic powder and a pinch of crushed basil over the cheese. Top that layer with the remaining dough. Rub with olive oil and bake at 400 for 15 minutes.

As long as you have a place to live, people who love you and clothes on your back, life is good. But I must say that as of tonight life, for me anyway, just got a little bit better.

Happy Stuffing Your Face With Pizza!

I'll Take 'Biscuits' For 100, Alex

2010-06-26T13:14:00.004-06:00

I have been playing a game I like to call 'Biscuit Jeopardy' for several years now. Although I was raised in the Pacific Northwest and not anywhere near the south, I am a biscuit lover through and through. And I just. can't. make. gluten. free. biscuits. THAT TASTE RIGHT!

Until now.

Using the flour recipe in my previous post, I made, quite frankly, the most wonderful biscuits I have tasted in a long, long time. Even my non-freak food eating family members wanted more, more, more!

They are not light and fluffy, but rather substantial and filling. And they taste amazing.

The best part? They don't use any shortening, butter or margarine.

Ready to bake? Here is the recipe for some awesome biscuits!

2 cups gluten free flour (preferably the mix in my previous post, but any will do)

1 Tb baking powder

1 tsp salt

1/3 cup extra light olive oil

2/3 cup almond milk (or your choice of milk)

Preheat oven to 425.

Mix all dry ingredients, then add olive oil and almond milk. Gradually add up to a 1/3 cup more milk to get a dough that is not wet, but a little on the sticky side. Using an ice cream scoop, place equal amounts on a baking sheet (a baking stone is preferred). Bake biscuits for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm with fruit spread or honey.

Happy biscuits and gravy!

Gluten Free Flour Meets Protein

2010-06-26T12:58:00.005-06:00

I love my gluten free flour recipe. I love the way it bakes, the crumb of it, the texture, the flavor. I really do. But it is lacking one thing: protein.

I've been wanting to add quinoa flour to my flour mix for a long time, but the strong flavor of it has been holding me back. Yesterday, I experimented and came up with a recipe that actually improved my flour mix! My biscuits and pancakes have more texture now, almost as though I was using a whole wheat flour.

Without further ado, here is the recipe for the protein enriched gluten free flour mix. I hope you like it!

2 cups Bob's Red Mill (or any superfine milled) brown rice flour

1/4 cup quinoa flour

2/3 cup potato starch

1/3 cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

Mix all ingredients together and store in a cool, dry place.

When doubling, do not double xanthan gum. For example, if you quadruple the recipe, you should only have 2 1/2 tsp of xanthan gum in your mix.

Happy healthier baking!

Warning: Don't Make These If You're Dieting!

2010-03-29T10:06:00.007-06:00

It is nearly impossible to eat just one square of these delicious, delectable creations. So when the kids want them, I make them with eggs and butter so that I CAN'T eat them! Yes, they are THAT GOOD!

Oat or Quinoa Chocolate Chip Lunchbox Bars

1 ½ cups firmly packed brown sugar

1 cup shortening (or butter or Earth Balance)

2 Tb. molasses (I use unsulfured)

2 tsp. gf vanilla

2 eggs or egg replacer

1 cup all purpose flour or GF flour mix (See previous post for recipe) (You can also use traditional all purpose flour)

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

3 cups oats or quinoa flakes

½ to 1 cup chocolate chips (or raisins or dried cranberries)

Pre-heat oven to 350. Cream together brown sugar and shortening. Add eggs or replacer, molasses and vanilla. Blend well with a mixer. Add all dry ingredients except for oats/quinoa and chips. Blend well. Blend in quinoa. Stir in chips. *If batter is dry, add a little milk or liquid.
Spread in greased 9x13 pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until edges are brown and center is set. Cool for at least 20 minutes before cutting into bars

Happy Snacking!

A Bit About Gluten and Its Imps

2010-03-27T20:03:00.005-06:00

If you're reading this, chances are GLUTEN is akin to a dirty word in your vocabulary. Because it makes us so sick, it is not at all presumptious to say that if we see a gluten containing grain in the ingredients for food, it may as well just say 'dirt', 'bugs' or 'cat dander'. Some of us would no sooner eat those things than we would a product with gluten.

Knowing our digestive enemy has many faces besides wheat, we need to become familiar with this enemy of the broken and wrecked system of the Celiac/Food Allergy/Intolerant.

The following is an extremely informative article about gluten. I strongly recommend that you read it: http://www.madwomanfoods.com/WhyGF.html

In short, gluten is found in many different grains including, but not limited to, wheat, spelt, kamut, barley, rye and oats (there are gluten free oats made by Bob's Red Mill).

Typically, the 'safe' grains are rice, quinoa (keenwa), corn, buckwheat (not a wheat at all), millet and some gluten free oats.

Gluten is also found hidden in many strange places: MSG, chips, sodas, salad dressings, lunchmeats, commercial cereals, candy bars, gum, mints, taco seasoning and the list could go on for paragraphs.

Amazingly, some poultry has gluten in it. I always buy Foster Farms chicken and Tyson also has a '100% natural' brand that is also safe.

Lunchmeats: Most are not safe....but Hormel has some, along with a really good nitrate free bacon that are allergy free called 'Natural Choice'. I find them at Walmart and locally at Fred Myer. Jeni-o sells an allergy free lunchmeat, but it is 8.99 a pound at your local deli. Your best bet, unless it is labeled otherwise, is to stay away from meats with broth, unless it's labeled 'gluten free'

Also, Pacific Broth is the only trusted Gluten Free broth. I find it at Walmart and locally at Winco, and Fred's. The best price is at Costco by the case.

And be sure to check all your condiments. 'Natural Flavors' can be gluten.

Gluten Free products I like:

Tinkyada pasta

Cocoa Loco or Very Berry bars (all allergy free as well)

Enjoy Life bagels

Van's waffles

Imagine Beef Broth

EnerG Pretzels

Gorilla Munch, Panda Puff's or Koala Crisp cereal by Envirokids

Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Oats (though, if you're really sensitive, this may bother you too, but may be more of a digestive issue).

La Choy soy sauce is wheat free.

Any Enjoy Life foods

Chex Brand only rice and corn chex

Enjoy Life chocolate chips are dairy, gluten, egg and soy free. If soy is not a big issue, Guittard chocolate chips are also great.

To help you in your gluten free adventure, below are some links to some very helpful websites.

http://www.glutenfreeregistry.com/gluten-free-state-search.do?state=ID

http://www.glutenfreeda.com/index.asp

http://www.celiac.com/articles/181/1/Safe-Gluten-Free-Food-List-Safe-Ingredients/Page1.html

http://www.clanthompson.com/res_info_lists_show_items.php3?category=Food Ingredients&category_id=4

Happy Getting Rid of Gluten!

Golly, But I Do Have One Smart Husband!

2010-03-11T20:29:00.004-07:00

I've become somewhat of an 'Allergy Guru' in my neck of the woods. I don't really know how it happened.....I can't eat anything. Well, I can still drink coffee and eat dairy free chocolate, which is all that really matters, but still....

On average, I find I receive at least one request a week from folks who know someone or someone who has a friend or someone who has a child - you get the picture - who just got the dreaded diagnosis of food allergies.

Knowing just how hard, discouraging, maddening and plain old confusing it can be to figure the whole darned thing out, I like to help people by sending them emails with tips, hints and recipes for their 'new life'.

After the umpteenth time of doing this yesterday, my husband said, "You know, you should just post all of this on your blog and refer people to that. Then they can send you questions via your comments section."

I blinked. I looked at him. I forgot I had a blog.

So! On the encouragement of my brilliant man (that's why he makes the big bucks and I make the pancakes), I am going to do just what he suggested.

The next few postings will contain web links, places to shop, foods to avoid, restaurants to dine at and, of course, recipes.

It is my prayer that this site will be a helpful spot for those deer-in-the-headlights people who don't have the faintest idea how to begin their new food life.

Believe me. I know how it feels. Because I am a Food Freak, too!

Happy Food Adventures!

Wow 'Em With Oven Fried Chicken!

2010-03-11T13:03:00.016-07:00

I've been gone for some time - the man's schedule and the offspring's basketball addiction have kept me quite busy, thank you very much! But now I am back. And I need to admit something...

I've tried. So many, many times. And yet I still...can't make...fried chicken. Even if my life depended on it. True story. Sad, but true.

That's where Oven Fried Chicken comes in to save the day! When I made this as the main dish for a recent meal, I even got 'the wave' from the family. It is that good!

Here are the makings:

Grease a 9x13 glass casserole

5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup olive oil in a shallow bowl

In a gallon ziploc bag:

1 cup gluten free all purpose flour (see recipe below)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Preheat oven to 425*

Place chicken, one at a time, in olive oil. Be sure to thoroughly coat the breast in oil.

Place chicken, one at a time, in bag. Seal and shake to coat completely. Place in greased casserole.

Arrange all chicken in casserole and place uncovered in oven. Bake for 30 minutes. Turn over each piece and bake an additional 15 minutes more.

Now you can make 'Fried Chicken' - even if it's just pretend!

GF All Purpose Flour Blend:

2 cups brown rice flour

2/3 cup potato starch

1/3 cup tapioca flour

1 tsp xanthan gum

All purchased from Bob's Red Mill

Blend all together thoroughly. Do not double xanthan gum, as your recipes will be too sticky. For example, if quadrupling the recipe, only use 2 tsp xanthan. Store mixture in a cool, dry place - preferably in the refrigerator.

Use this mix cup for cup in all of your traditional recipes.

Happy Finger Lickin'!

It's Been a While Since I Posted Something....So....

2009-09-09T13:48:00.002-06:00

Something

Now, THAT'S a Fish!

2009-03-29T14:08:00.002-06:00

I wonder if he was gluten free? Nice catch, Grandpa.

Happy Fishing!

BEWARE!

2009-03-19T12:54:00.002-06:00

It's getting close to Spring, which for some of us means one thing: the sniffling, sneazing ALLERGIES!

But think twice before taking that antihistimine pill if you have a severe LACTOSE allergy. That pill may contain something known as lactose monohydrate.

That ingredient, my friend, is pure lactose from dairy. And you may find that each tablet can contain up to 81 mgs. of lactose!

Lactose monohydrate is found in certain drugs like Claritin, Zyrtec and Ambien.

So before you purchase any drug from the pharmacy, ask for a list of ingredients. I am now also going to check all of my over the counter drugs as well for this ingredient.

I find it amazing that the FDA will require all FOOD labels to show any allergens, yet when it comes to drugs, it is not necessary.

I plan to write to these companies to plead with them to change their inactive ingredients.

In the meantime, I need to research what medications I CAN take!

Happy Medication Hunting!

Something Fishy....

2009-02-24T09:57:00.009-07:00

Well, I am one of 'those' people who absolutely love fish sticks. When I found these, I was a bit taken back by the price, but decided to buy them anyway.

One bite and....oh, my. True fish stick heaven. These babies are good!

Ian's also offers a variety of other allergy free foods. To view their site, simply click on the following link:

http://www.iansnaturalfoods.com/entrees.html

Happy Feeling Like a Kid Again!

It's All A Matter Of Perspective, Really....

2009-01-22T12:39:00.002-07:00

Be Happy For Your Job! It Could Always Be Worse!

Yes....You CAN Live Again!

2009-01-17T14:07:00.007-07:00

The comedian Brian Regan once had a bit about his doctor telling him to 'lay off dairy'. To Brian, the doctor could well have said, "No more happiness."

To which, I say, "No kidding!"

But thanks to the folks at the above places, we CAN have happiness when the doctor says, "No more dairy."

I think I'd like to kiss these people....

Be Dairy Free....With Happiness!

It's A Family Thing....

2009-01-02T20:19:00.028-07:00

No 'food allergy' posts today....

Just some assorted pics I thought would be fun for viewing...

The above pics are my Mom & Dad, back in 'The Day'...

This is me with my favorite person in the world.

My boys (middle and right) dressing up for church youth group 'Nerd Night'.

My three lovely daughters at the beginning of our latest snow fall.

The guy on the right is my uncle. The guy on the left? Um, not a criminal, of course!

Here is my uncle once again....a more recent photo....and, no - he's not shooting criminals.

This is my sister in law, Kristi. Don't let her size fool you.

You wouldn't want to break into her home.

This pic from a little while ago is of my brother and me.

Behind us you will see my Dad's beloved GTO.

Above is my beloved sister in law again with my brother, Don.Our family crest contains the image of a wild boar....the Scottish have a way of making statements, no? This was their Christmas card this year. Creative, ya think?

Happy New Year!

Christmas Cranberry Scones

2008-12-13T10:03:00.005-07:00

Christmas morning. A fire in the wood stove, lights sparkling on the tree, gift wrap scattered from one end of the house to the other.....and everyone is hungry.

Cereal just doesn't seem very 'Christmasy', but who wants to slave over a hot stove cooking a huge breakfast that morning? Certainly not me!

My solution is something quick and easy to prepare, but still tastes like I spent hours preparing it. I want Christmas morning memories to be special. And Cranberry Christmas Scones are just the perfect addition to the morning's festivities!

This recipe can be converted to use regular wheat flour, dairy butter or milk. It makes a great gift idea as well. Simply put all of the dry ingredients together in a gift container and affix a recipe card stating the wet ingredients for the recipient to add.

So let's get started:

Cranberry Christmas Scones

2 C Gluten Free all purpose flour (see recipe below)

1 T baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cream of tartar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 1/2 T sugar

1/2 C Earth Balance spread or shortening (or butter)

1/2 C your choice milk (almond, rice, soy, etc.)

1/2 C (or more!) dried cranberries

Pre-heat oven to 425. Blend together all dry ingredients, except for cranberries. With an electric mixer, blend in spread until mix resembles tiny crumbs. Add milk and blend (more may be needed if dough is still dry and crumbly). Stir in cranberries. On a stone or baking sheet, form two domes out of the dough. Cut each dome into four triangles and arrange on stone or sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden. Serve warm with your choice of butter subtitute and/or jam.

All Purpose Flour Mix - Gluten Free

2 1/4 C brown rice flour

1/4 C potato starch

2/3 C tapioca starch flour

3/4 C sweet white rice flour

1/3 C cornstarch

2 tsp. xanthan gum

When doubling this recipe, do not double the xanthan. For example, if I quadrupled this recipe, I would only add 5-6 tsp of xanthan. Otherwise, your recipes will become 'gummy'. Store this mix in a cool, dry place, such as a fridge or freezer.

Happy Christmas Baking!

Trees, Gifts, and Allergy Free Cocoa!

2008-12-05T08:39:00.007-07:00

While decorating the tree and indulging in the general festivities of the season, tradition dictates that hot beverages go along with it. Especially hot chocolate!

Being a chocolate lover, I was not about to have my allergies dictate to me that I could no longer drink the stuff. There HAD to be a way! And there was...

Thanks to the folks at Hershey's, we with allergies can have a rich, steaming mug of cocoa without risking our health. And with a little creativity, add a little holiday pizazz to it as well!

Simply buy a bottle of Hershey's chocolate syrup and your favorite milk substitute. Mix together in a mug, microwave for 2 minutes and.....ahhhhh, pure pleasure!

Better yet, if you're able to drink Almond milk, a chocolate variety is also offered. Even easier.

Now, for the pizazz (this is really cool), whisk together enough powdered sugar and water to make a thin paste. Next, dip the ends of large marshmallows in the paste. Then roll that side in finely crushed candy canes. Allow to air dry and place two each on small skewers. Add to your hot chocolate for a fun, Christmastime treat!

Happy Holidays!

Kids Have a Way of Saying Things....

2008-11-13T12:16:00.004-07:00

" *gasp* We cannot believe you just said that!"

How come it is that children can get away with saying things we have been thinking.....things we wouldn't dare say aloud. Because if we said them, we would be labeled intolerant, hateful, narrow, what have you.

Perhaps it's because God put something 'in the mouths of babes' that makes whatever it is they say somehow turn out adorable, true and cute.

To make my point, the other night our family was praying together before bed. When it came to Noelle's turn, she simply prayed this:

"And God, please help our new President to be nicer than we think he is."

Now that's much better than me praying, "And God, please help our new President to not be such a jerk!"

See the difference?

Happy Days!

Tomorrow Is Veteran's Day

2008-11-10T08:29:00.004-07:00

Remember to thank those who served or are serving....for because they sacrificed, we are able to enjoy the many freedoms that accompany being a citizen of this great nation.

Why I Love Living In Idaho...

2008-11-05T10:34:00.006-07:00

62% - John McCain

36% - Barack Obama

I think I'll live here for awhile.......

By the way, an interesting definition to read:

http://www.answers.com/topic/socialism

Feeling Chicken?

2008-11-02T09:13:00.006-07:00

Well, now that you've filled up on clam chowder, how about a nice bowl of hot chicken noodle or rice soup?

This past week, our entire family has been sick to one degree or another, and homemade chicken soup always seems to be the best remedy.

There are a few variations to making this soup. I sometimes make what I call 'Cheating Chicken Soup'. That particular concoction is for when we want soup, but I don't have enough time to stew the hen for it. In that case, I microwave 3 chicken breast halves until fully cooked, and add to my broth. And instead of standard wild rice mix, I use minute brown rice. Cheating, I know. But still plenty good!

Another variation is sometimes we want noodles, other times we want rice. An easy fix.

But for now, I will publish my traditional chicken soup recipe. It's easy, it's good and it's a sure fix for those chilly, rainy, stuffy nose days.

Homemade Chicken Soup

1 medium stewing hen (Foster Farms, Pilgrim's Pride or Tyson Natural are all GF)

3-4 boxes Pacific Organic Chicken Broth

1 small package carrot slices or 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

2 ribs celery (optional) chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1 tsp each sage, oregano, basil, dill, dry or pressed garlic (more or less garlic, depending on your tastes)

2 cups unconverted wild rice blend OR 16 oz Tinkyada rice spaghetti, broken into small pieces

In a 5 qt. stock pot, place the rinsed stewing hen. Add spices and broth. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer. Let chicken stew for at least 2 hours.

When the chicken is ready, place a large bowl in the sink and place a strainer in that. Pour the broth into the strainer. Place the chicken in the strainer in the sink, and pour the broth back into the stock pot. You can then place the chicken (still in the strainer) inside the bowl to cool off a bit.

Bring the broth back to a boil. At this point, if you feel you need more broth, add the 4th container.

Add the carrots, celery and onion. If you are using the unconverted rice, add that as well. The rice will need to boil for 30- 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If you are adding noodles, add them when the carrots are crisp tender. Stir often. The noodles will need to boil for about 20 minutes.

About 10 minutes before the rice or noodles are done, begin to tear up the chicken and add it to the soup. If you boil the chicken pieces longer than 10 minutes, they may become stringy.

When using the unconverted rice, there have been times when more rice seemed necessary when the cooking time was done. So I simply added one cup of brown minute rice.

And now you have a nice, hot pot of homemade chicken soup!

The best part is, no one will know it is entirely free of allergens!

So eat up, and...

Happy Chilly Days!

It's Clamtastic!

2008-10-23T20:21:00.011-06:00

It's colder outside now....time for those soups and yummy stews.

Just the other night I made Clam Chowder....free of gluten, dairy and wheat. Oh, yeah. Heaven.

So without any further ramblings, I give you....

Clam Chowder (profound, eh?)

Potatoes, scrubbed and diced (the amount will depend upon the servings you are making)

6 strips GF bacon (Kirkland brand) - fried and crumbled

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, pressed

2-4 cans Snow's brand clams, minced and chopped (you can drain or retain juices for flavor)

Basil, Oregano, Dill and Sage (a pinch of each)

Your choice of milk (for dairy, use one can evaporated milk) - I used Rice Dream Original, but I have also used Pacific Hazlenut milk and that is very good as well!

Cornstarch

Place the potatoes, onion, garlic, spices and clams in a saucepot and add enough water to barely cover the mixture to boil (too much water makes it watery). Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender. Whisk together 1/4-1/3 cup Cornstarch with a little of your milk of choice. Stir into soup and boil until thickened. Remove from heat and add bacon and milk (evaporated milk, just one can). After you have added your milk, you may need to thicken the chowder a bit more. With the non-dairy milk, it is always a game of 'add and thicken some more' for me!

Ta-da! You're done! And it is as fabulous as it is quick and easy!

Happy Chowder Days!

So, I'm 'It'?

2008-10-14T12:55:00.011-06:00

My friend, Sara, 'tagged' me recently. My initial thought was, "Oh, I so do not have time for this!" But the more I thought about it, the more fun it sounded.

I'm supposed to post the rules, which go something like this:

1. Post six random things about yourself.

2. Tag six or so other bloggers

3. Let the person who 'tagged' you know you've posted.

So, ahem, here goes:

1. I played the part of 'Dorothy' in the 'Wizard of Oz' my senior year in high school ('There's no place like home, there's no place like home....")

2. As a child I loved to play with wild mice, snakes and salamanders (I drew the line at spiders - no way!)

3. My 8th through 9th grade years found me as a 'punk rocker'...black lipstick, ratted hair, trenchcoat, the whole nine yards. Yep, totally ashamed.

4. I am a 'readaholic' - if I had the time, I could read a book a day. I even love to read cereal boxes and toilet paper wrappers.

5. I met my husband when I was 15 (just getting out of my 'punk' phase). We have been best friends ever since!

6. I hate anything flavored with 'fake' banana flavor....while my husband LOVES it!

So, now you know more about me than you ever probably really wanted to! Now I guess I need to 'tag' someone.....

Happy Tagging!

Pizza Party!

2008-10-04T08:57:00.004-06:00

This is not anything new in our household. The kids come home from whatever activity they're involved in holding the paper that announces, 'Pizza Party'!

Now, for the 'normal' family, this would be cause for celebration! "Whew! One less mouth to feed that day!"

But not for us.

My reaction? "Crud. Now what?"

Not only do you not want your kids to feel like complete dorks because they're not eating what everyone else is, you know that they cannot eat what everyone else is! What a dilemma!

While it takes a little creativity, we moms (or dads as the case may be) can make this not much of a big deal at all.

The most important part is to check with the teacher or leader of the group throwing the party. It's imperative that THEY know the allergies your child has and that his/her food MUST stay separate from all the rest. Personally, I like to designate one helper to make sure my kids get their food if I am not there. Of course, now that my kids are older, they take care of it on their own.

Simply, I make their own pizza the night before in a microwave safe dish (such as a pie plate). Then, we transport the pizza to the facility's fridge. When it's time for pizza, my kids or their helper can simply 'nuke' the whole pie. Now they're eating what everyone else is eating (with a few slight modifications!)

This method also works well for birthday parties (cake, 'ice cream', and yes, pizza) and holidays.

It's a little extra work on Mom's part, but well worth it when your kid doesn't have to miss out because he or she is a 'food freak'.

Happy Partying!

Has Anyone Seen My Glock?

2008-09-19T20:35:00.008-06:00

Well, no. I really didn't misplace a Glock. I don't even own one. Not that I wouldn't like to someday. I only own some 'big' guns....those are a little more difficult to miss. Yet I can't help but wonder if I did own a Glock, would I be a responsible gun owner? Or would I do with it like I do with everything else; "Dang. Now what did I do with those bullets? And the gun? Oh, GREAT! Uh, Mr. Burglar? Yeah, uh, hold on a sec while I look for my bullets to shoot you with. Aha! Here they are! Now, where did I put that gun?"

I joke all the time that I am ADD, but honestly, I think it's just a bad case of brain atrophy. Perhaps senility setting in very early in life. But it's true. I have had the darnedest time remembering things lately.

Maybe my brain suffered when I had my Celiac meltdown and couldn't absorb enough vitamins. That's what I like to think.

It might even have something to do with the fact that I have five children ages 7 - 14 who need my constant guidance.

Whatever it is, I am resolving to up my vitamin intake and maybe even start on some of those 'memory herbs'.

Because when you get right down...to...it......um, what was I going to say?

Well, anyway, take your vitamins and...

Be Happy For Good Memory!

Well, Doggone!

2008-09-11T22:58:00.011-06:00

We've all been there. We've all experienced it. At one time or another in our lives, it has or will happen to all of us.

You know the drill. Sitting reading quietly, or perhaps watching your favorite T.V. program. Maybe you're eating a meal, or studying for that all important exam.

And then, out of nowhere...WHAM! It hits! Crowds scatter, forks are put down, the remote flies and the book is dropped. All over the room, people are gasping, exclaiming and running for air.

Yes....the dog....has farted.

Some bring out matches, others spray the vanilla scented aerosol (resulting in a slightly farty vanilla scent). Everyone shoos 'Rover' out the door, banning him from the house indefinitely.

"Why", you are probably asking, "would she do a blog on dog flatulence?"

One simple answer: Dogs can have food allergies. I am not making this up!

Now, not all dogs with gastrointestinal discomfort have food allergies, make no mistake. Perhaps it was the leftover sauerkraut and bratwurst you fed him. Maybe it was the fact that money was tight, so you bought Kibbles-n-Bits, otherwise known as the Capt'n Crunch of dog food.

But if you routinely find piles of, uh, let's say, exhaust in your backyard that looks as though a stampede of elephants has just been through, you may have a problem with your pooch. Likewise, if your family is constantly having to hang their heads out of the vehicle instead of Fido, we may have an issue.

It is not uncommon for dogs to have an allergy to wheat or gluten. Now, if you think about this, it just makes sense. I mean, check out that dogs teeth. He was made for eating flesh! Yes, he may love the marshmallows and peanut butter you feed him for your entertainment, but think about it! Have you ever actually seen a dog chow down a bowl of bulgar wheat? No way! If you tried to feed that to him, he would look at you with that 'Stupid Human' look.

Now, a bowl of chicken and rice....now we're talkin'!

So, if you are wondering why 'Butch' is whining to be let out at night, having more noxious fumes than normal and depositing way more on the back lawn than is normal for one dog, the solution is easy: find a gluten free dog food (I'm not kidding! It's on the shelves!), usually formulated with lamb, chicken and rice. Slowly change over to the new dog food and observe for a month. If you notice a marked improvement; ba-bing! You have found your answer! Your gluten-free dog is a very special member of the canine species!

And, perhaps, it will spare you the embarrassment of handing out oxygen masks to your next dinner guests.

And Be Happy For 'Man's Best Friend'!

The Freak Food Gourmet

:: Which 'Whosoever' are YOU? ::

Because..

The Sound of My Blog's Comments Section:

Doughnuts!!! No eggs, dairy, gluten, corn, soy or yeast. But FULL of Deliciousness!

Out of this World Chicken Noodle Soup

Shout Out! For: The Cravings Place!

Do you 'like' me on Facebook, or do you 'like like' me?

When life gets so crazy that you can't even blog, at least take time for CHOCOLATE!

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Easy as Pie!

Recipes for the Holidays - Eggless Eggnog

Shout Out!!! For the Roastere'!

Fluffy!

Ya Slob!

Lights! Camera! It's Finished!

Have You Been Duped?

Lights! Camera! WAIT!!!!

What a Crock! (Crock POT, that is....)

Are You Courageous?

"He'd Still Been God"

Right On!

Mayo. You can eat it now.

All About Almond Meal

Shortcake! No, no...not the nickname the Fonz gave Joanie. Sheesh!

Installment One of Raw Food: Mangos and Macaroons!

Allergy Free in Your Own Backyard!

Sing....Sing a Song...

That's How the Cookie Crumbles...

Summer Wraps!

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal

It's okay. You can stop giving everyone the evil eye now.

WHAT?!?!? HOW COULD YOU?!?!?

Twenty Fabulous Years

Happy Independence Day!﻿

What I Will Be Doing Today....

My problems? Yeah, they're real. But they're also pretty small.

Thirty Nine Years Ago...

WHOA!!!! YUM!!!!

In a Jam?

A Little Leaven....

NUTS!

I Have Been Blessed

SHOUT OUT!

Just Beautiful.

Talk about counter productive!

God Help America

Sunflower oil - who knew?

Things that really matter...

What's worse than buying expensive allergy free food?

A Very Real Warning!!!!! Must Read!!!!

While We're on the Subject of Food and Eating......

Time to till the garden!

My Kids' Favorite Bread

My Cup Runneth Over

She's 17. Seventeen. Sev - en - teen. Be still my heart....

Shopping Etiquette 101

Fiesta!

Misery is spelled: I-N-F-L-U-E-N-Z-A

What Do the Freaks Eat When They're Sick?

Never a Dull Moment....

Life Without Bacon is Just Plain Life

Like a Little Coffee With Your Creamer? Never Fear...

Communication - Not to be Confused With Communicable, of Course

Anyone? Anyone? Beuller?

Pizza. How Do I Love Thee? Even More Now.

I'll Take 'Biscuits' For 100, Alex

Gluten Free Flour Meets Protein

Warning: Don't Make These If You're Dieting!

A Bit About Gluten and Its Imps

Golly, But I Do Have One Smart Husband!

Wow 'Em With Oven Fried Chicken!

It's Been a While Since I Posted Something....So....

Now, THAT'S a Fish!

BEWARE!

Something Fishy....

It's All A Matter Of Perspective, Really....

Yes....You CAN Live Again!

It's A Family Thing....

Christmas Cranberry Scones

Happy Independence Day!