It’s interesting how naive you can be about something until you’ve got first-hand experience from it. That can be said about me when it came to the seriousness of food allergies and other food-related issues. I had heard about people who got sick from being near peanut butter — even just smelling peanut butter.  I knew people who had “bad dairy allergies” and I grew up diagnosed with lactose intolerance so I thought I kind of understood what food allergies meant. I didn’t give much thought to it, beyond that. It didn’t affect me and as far as I could see, it wasn’t that common. For school, I was allowed to pack whatever I wanted— there was no peanut or nut ban school board-wide, and I didn’t fully grasp what the “big deal” was.

When I had to go gluten-free, it started to make more sense to me. While I won’t immediately die as someone with anaphylactic food allergies may, coming into contact with gluten (even a bread crumb) can have real and serious consequences  When my kids started school and their diet changed to remove their own food-offending items, learning that their school was totally peanut- and nut-free was not difficult for me to understand. While my children don’t have issues with peanuts or nuts, gluten is a real concern,but not immediately life-threatening, like peanut allergies often are.

It is easy to look past something when it is not something that you need to worry about. If your children don’t have allergies, understanding the need for such a widespread food ban may be hard to understand, but certainly not difficult. The following are common phrases that have heard other parents say when it comes to talking about someone else’s kid’s food allergies:

1) “Kids with food allergies should sit at their own table or a separate room.”

A few years ago, and for many schools still, children with peanut or other food allergies were forced to sit at their own table, apart from the possible offending foods. It was the way it was done. Today, many more schools are placing a school-wide ban on certain food items, like peanuts, which are not allowed in the school or anyone’s lunch. While I can see how this may be a struggle for a family who has never had to concern themselves with reading through ingredients, the idea of segregation is not the answer. The separate table puts a target on the children with allergies, pulls them away from their friend circle, and many kids find it embarrassing.

2) “They will have to learn to live in the ‘real world’ someday”

This one drives me the craziest, and I hear it often when it comes to food allergies and school policies. Parents don’t or can’t understand the serious reasons many schools are placing a nut-ban on the entire school and while it can be a little challenging, their child deserves to be safe over your slight inconvenience  People compare it to sheltering kids and making things easier for the families with allergies, while making things harder for the families who are allergy-free, but it’s not about sheltering, it’s about keeping kids safe. Kids don’t know everything they need to know to keep themselves safe right away — they learn it at the pace they learn everything else. They will grow to “live in the real world,” but first they need the safety to be able to learn what they need to know to make sure they are safe.

3) “Why do I have to go through the hassle for someone else’s kid?”

There are many people who can’t seem to look past their own situation and it’s not a nice looking quality on anyone. Would you want to send your child to school knowing that they could die from the smallest amount of a certain food product? I am going to go out on a limb and say — not likely. While these nut-bans may be a slight inconvenience when you have to slap a piece of cheese into a sandwich instead of peanut butter, it is certainly not a big deal in comparison to those kids who could be seriously injured or die. School is a right all kids should have — life-threatening food allergies or not.

4) “It’s just strict parenting.”

I’ve heard this from doctors and other adults when I talk about the dietary restrictions my own children are on. It’s not about being strict for the sake of making up my own rules, but when it comes to food allergies and my kids’ safety, you better believe that I am going to follow the necessary precautions and be that strict with others doing the same. It’s far more than any control issue and while parents who are raising kids with food allergies may seem “extreme” to you, trust me, I bet they wish they didn’t have to deal with it either.

5) “I’m sure it’s not that bad.”

It can be hard to understand that a small bread crumb or smelling peanut butter can be as threatening as a loaded gun for some children, but it’s true. Most parents aren’t trying to overplay the serious situation, and children for certain are not playing it up to be larger than it is. Just because you may not understand it, does not make it untrue. Having this type of attitude is what leads to kids “teasing” and “bullying” kids with food allergies by feeding them their offending food — which never really ends well for the child. Compassion people — we teach it to our kids, so show it.

6) “I am sure they will outgrow it.”

You know, it can happen and it has for some kids’ allergies, but this is not always the case. There are people who believe that allergies are developed because of over-strict parents who don’t “expose” their children to certain foods. While some kids could outgrow the allergy, it certainly doesn’t make it any less serious now and the precautions that need to be taken now.

7) “It’s not my problem.”

I worry about my daughter not being invited out to places when she grows up, because of her dietary restrictions. So far this hasn’t been an issue, but there are people who are under the impression that it’s easier to not invite someone than to modify what they’re doing or serving. If we all just sat around saying “it’s not my problem” no one in the world would be safe, happy, thriving or healthy.

Photo credit: adapted from Katie Tegtmeyer / Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/what-not-to-say-to-kids-with-food-allergies/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/what-not-to-say-to-kids-with-food-allergies/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/mh1QUYQKG4o/ http://accustomedchaos.com/dangers-of-media-outlets-jumping-on-the-gluten-free-fad-wagon/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:03:04 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7975 It seems over the past 5 years or so, there has been a big boom in the gluten-free industry. From both the manufacturing side with many more products available and I’ve been hearing more and more about people trying out the gluten-free diet for reasons other than celiac disease or gluten intolerance. I am not [...]

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It seems over the past 5 years or so, there has been a big boom in the gluten-free industry. From both the manufacturing side with many more products available and I’ve been hearing more and more about people trying out the gluten-free diet for reasons other than celiac disease or gluten intolerance. I am not discounting that many other ailments can be helped through the adaption of the gluten-free diet, but as I’ve spoken before — the popularity of this diet has contributed to some dangerous misinformation being spread around.

I have shared many posts before on my worries about the gluten-free diet being considered a fad. I’ve called out tv shows, and news agencies for spreading information that could be dangerous — especially to people newly diagnosed with celiac disease. That time when we’re learning what we can to be safe, to try to figure out which foods are out and which ones are still safe, we rely a lot on those respected sources for information we can trust.

The problem with the quick rise in the popularity of gluten-free is many media outlets are trying to cover this fad and the gluten-free recipes. There is no doubt it’s on the rise in popularity and with that, we’re seeing more and more about the diet, the reasons for going gluten-free and the benefits it can have.

Companies are trying to play catch-up, realizing that this is a hot topic for so many people who are adapting the gluten-free lifestyle for a multitude of reasons. They quickly pull together gluten-free recipes to give to their readers and while I think it’s great that mainstream outlets are now a source for great recipes, that seems to come with quite the price.

Quick research to get the articles and recipes out there leads to dangerous incorrect information. I’ve seen it happen on live TV. I’ve seen it on segments of United States television shows and over the past month, I’ve seen it happen on a popular website and in print on a popular Canadian magazine.

Gluten-free recipe round-ups

A popular website based out of the United States put together a gluten-free Easter recipe round-up for their readers. Most of the recipes linked to sister sites of the parent company and rounded up desserts that would be great to add to the Easter dinners. It is set up to allow inclusion in the Easter fun, especially for kids with allergies and highlights that these “20 amazing, delicious, and GLUTEN FREE Easter treats” will be enjoyed by the whole family.

I was excited to see this post — with so many recipes going to such a large audience. As I scrolled through the slideshow, I came across at least 2 recipes on there that called for obvious not-gluten-free ingredients. One called for Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies® cereal, which is not gluten-free (they do have a gluten-free version, but it’s not specified) and while I could let that one slide because there are gluten-free alternatives, another recipe was flat shocking.

It was a slide of 20 recipes that could have easily been cut down, but the author of the post decided to include Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks. The dessert looks amazing and delicious, but when I clicked over to the recipe, the third ingredient listed is “3 cups Shredded Wheat“.  Yes, it says WHEAT right there in the recipe. In what could have been a great round-up with 15 or so recipes, it was all tainted by this inclusion when clearly it’s not at all gluten-free.

Gluten-free recipes in magazines

I subscribe to a few magazines and was happy when my May 2013 Canadian Living magazine came in the mail and was even happier when this issue included many gluten-free recipes. So many of the recipes looked great and then I came across a dessert recipe called “Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chunk Cookies” on page 194 of the magazine. I was confused because according to Canada’s Food and Drug Regulations – oats are NOT considered gluten-free and this was a Canadian Magazine.

Subsection B.01.010.1(1) of the regulation reads:

“gluten”

(a) any gluten protein from the grain of any of the following cereals or the grain of a hybridized strain created from at least one of the following cereals:

(i) barley,
(ii) oats,
(iii) rye,
(iv) triticale, or
(v) wheat, kamut or spelt; or

(b) any modified gluten protein, including any gluten protein fraction, that is derived from the grain of any of the cereals referred to in subparagraphs (a)(i) to (v) or the grain of a hybridized strain referred to in paragraph (a). (gluten)

The recipe clearly calls for “gluten-free quick-cooking (not instant) rolled oats” but the problem is — in Canada there is no such thing as “gluten-free oats” because they are not legally allowed to be labeled as such.

I tried to reach out to the magazine on Twitter to express my confusion with a Canadian magazine not abiding to the Canadian gluten-free labels when composing their recipes:

They seemed not to want to be called out via social media so I did send them my email hoping they would continue the discussion as they said, but no surprise here — I didn’t hear anything back. While this information would be correct in the United States, this is a Canadian published magazine for Canadian readers.

The popularity of the gluten-free diet has done wonderful things when it comes to the influx of great tasting, affordable gluten-free products. The drive for the market has brought with it some understanding of the medical needs for the diet and there has been a greater awareness for other health benefits of the diet. It has also brought with it, dangerous information from companies who either don’t do the proper research or don’t see the dangers of not doing so.

I would love for companies who want to share this valuable and important information to at the very least, make sure what they’re sharing won’t hurt or hinder those who need to be on the gluten-free diet — for whatever reason.

 Photo credit: adapted from  spcbrass /Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/dangers-of-media-outlets-jumping-on-the-gluten-free-fad-wagon/feed/ 1 http://accustomedchaos.com/dangers-of-media-outlets-jumping-on-the-gluten-free-fad-wagon/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/17bQ--zV_is/ http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-make-up-red-apple-lipstick/#comments Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:07:52 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7979 At the start of the year, I made myself a promise. Not really like a new year’s resolution, but a goal of mine to take more time for me. I admit I have been bad about putting myself on the priority list and after a while, that really wears on you. One thing I promised [...]

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At the start of the year, I made myself a promise. Not really like a new year’s resolution, but a goal of mine to take more time for me. I admit I have been bad about putting myself on the priority list and after a while, that really wears on you.

One thing I promised myself I would do is to wear more lipstick. I know, that sounds so small, but it’s amazing how taking 5 minutes to brighten up your face can make you feel. I have always wanted to be into lipstick, but I was more the lip gloss or chap stick kind of girl. Since then, I have been on the hunt for the perfect lipstick — my signature shade.

The complication with this is because I have celiac disease, I have to carefully check that the lipsticks I use don’t contain gluten. It is harder than it sounds to get a hold of that information because unlike food labels, make up has a different rule system. You have to really know what you’re looking for — the scientific names for the offending gluten proteins, and that information is not always easy to find.

That is what makes me appreciate companies that have us in mind more. There are products that certify they’re free from gluten and therefor, safe for people with celiac disease. It’s not a simple as going to the department store and trying on sample after sample until you find the right shade and finish for you — so taking that guessing out of it is welcome.

That’s where Red Apple Lipstick comes in — their makeup line is certified completely free from gluten, paraben, soy, dairy and allergen free. To add to that, their lipsticks are also vegan, natural and cruelty free, but this doesn’t compromise the quality of the product.

I’ve recently been testing out 5 of their shades — 4 lipsticks and 1 gloss and if you’ve been thinking about getting some lipstick from them, here are my thoughts on this gluten-free make up line.

First thing I noticed about the company is the customer service. I was in contact with the owner and he was so helpful — happy to answer any questions I had about any products and the shipping was quick to get to me (and I’m in Canada).

When the products arrived, they were beautifully wrapped — taking time to make sure none of the lipsticks were damaged in the shipping. I am happy to say, all arrived safely! Each lipstick comes in a typical black box and inside you’ve got your tube of lipstick. The bottom of the tube is lightly textured, which is a nice gripper while you try to apply your lipstick. The material reminds me a lot of the NARS brand, but they’re cutely stamped with the Red Apple logo. The lip gloss comes in a long tube clear plastic that shows you the colour of your product. The applicator is long and the tip is slightly slanted making it easier to apply.

It’s always a little nerve-wracking when you’re ordering lipstick online without getting to try the products, but when I opened them up, they were so close to the images on their website, which is a good thing. I ordered the following colors:

Amor Caliente is described as a “crimson red gloss with deep shine”. The colour has a great shine to it without looking cheap, which I find happens sometimes. The gloss isn’t too sticky, but you should expect a little being that it’s lip gloss. The color stays on well and there is no funny after-taste to the product. This colour is my girls’ favorite and they ask to wear it all the time.

 

 

 

 

Love My Kiss  is described as “perfect blend of red and pink, giving you a gorgeous color that works with most skin tones and flatters women of all ages” was so just that. I have very pigmented lips and this colour still took to them well and gave them a little pink sparkle. It’s great to apply lightly for a little shimmer or add a few coats for a brighter colour.

 

 

 

 

Crush On Me is described as “powerful violet-based bright pink.  It packs a bold punch with a hint of glitter” is another of my girls’ favourites. It’s a light pink color that doesn’t look too young and worked well with my pigmented lips and lighter skin tone.

 

 

 

 

Secrets is described as “Pink/fuschia-y moisturizing lipstick, with a deep gold shimmer.” The gold shimmer is not too overpowering, but adds a little glimmer when you need it. This shade also has the ability to put on lightly for just a little shine or apply a few times for a bolder color.

 

 

 

 

 

Petal Pusher is described as “the perfect hot pink”. This shade is by far my favourite and reminds me a lot of my favourite MAC makeup shade that I love to wear. This colour adds a good punch of hot pink that stays on for a good amount of time and has the slightest shine to it. As with all the lipsticks that I tried, there is no strange taste to the product and it doesn’t feel heavy on my lips.

 

 

 

 

If you’d like to get some Red Apple Lipstick for yourself, check out their website at RedAppleLipstick.com

Edit: Red Apple Lipstick was voted “Best Gluten Free Cosmetics Brand” at this year’s Annual Gluten Free Awards. The results were published in the March-April issues of Delight Gluten Free Magazine. If you’ve been debating trying out this brand, give it a go. Not only are their products amazing, the company is knowledgeable and great at customer service. 

Disclaimer: I received these products free-of-charge. All opinions are my own and in no way influenced by the company.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-make-up-red-apple-lipstick/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-make-up-red-apple-lipstick/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/zDYx-g34lIE/ http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-pizza-lasagna-soup/#comments Sun, 07 Apr 2013 20:37:00 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7937 I am a big fan of soup, but for some reason it’s not a consistent item on our weekly menu. Most soups are quick and simple to make and you can throw in as many vegetables as you like — making it as healthy and hearty as you want. I’ve been trying to test foods that are [...]

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I am a big fan of soup, but for some reason it’s not a consistent item on our weekly menu. Most soups are quick and simple to make and you can throw in as many vegetables as you like — making it as healthy and hearty as you want. I’ve been trying to test foods that are outside our regular dinner-menu plans and today, I was struck with the idea of making a soup that my kids are more likely to eat. Combining two of their favourite dinners into a soup and it worked!

This pizza lasagna soup tastes just like pizza thanks to the tomato sauce and pepperoni and reminds me of lasagna with the inclusion of the broken lasagna pieces as noodles. It’s filling, so simple to make and doesn’t take a long time until you can sit down and enjoy a delicious bowl (or two). This recipe is gluten-free, but can be made with regular wheat lasagna noodles and works just the same. Also, it tastes just as good without any cheese if you’re dairy free, but I’ve included some notes on how to include dairy if it’s not on your do not eat list.

Gluten-Free Pizza Lasagna Soup

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Recipe type: Soup

Cuisine: Gluten-Free

Prep time:  10 mins

Cook time:  45 mins

Total time:  55 mins

Print

If you love pizza and you love lasagna, you must try out this delicious, quick and easy soup.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of ground beef or ground pork
• 1 yellow onion; chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms; washed and chopped
• 1 box of chicken stock (make sure you use a gluten-free brand)
• 1 can of tomato sauce
• 1 cup pepperoni slices; chopped (make sure you use a gluten-free type)
• 8-10 broken rice lasagna noodles
• 2 teaspoons of oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• sat and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the ground beef, onion and mushroom and olive oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until beef is browned.
2. Add the chicken stock, tomato sauce, oregano and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add broken rice lasagna noodles and continue simmering for 10 minutes or until lasagna noodles have softened.
4. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Not Gluten-Free?: If you don’t need to eat gluten-free, this recipe can be made using 8-10 broken wheat-based lasagna noodles. Not Dairy-Free?: If you don’t need to eat dairy-free, this recipe holds itself well to adding in a tablespoon of cottage cheese or ricotta cheese into each individually served bowls. You can also put some grated mozzarella cheese into each serving dish and broil until brown and melted.

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Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-pizza-lasagna-soup/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-pizza-lasagna-soup/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/9V8DUZOZVFY/ http://accustomedchaos.com/snack-obsession-oven-roasted-chickpeas/#comments Thu, 28 Mar 2013 23:27:50 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7925 I love crunch and I love salt and seasoning when it comes to my snacks. I am a big potato or corn chip fan, but wanting to cut down on the carbohydrates and the unhealthy snacks, I’ve been on the hunt for something better for me. I don’t want to compromise on the texture though [...]

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I love crunch and I love salt and seasoning when it comes to my snacks. I am a big potato or corn chip fan, but wanting to cut down on the carbohydrates and the unhealthy snacks, I’ve been on the hunt for something better for me. I don’t want to compromise on the texture though and want to feel like I’m snacking without feeling like it’s a substitution for something that would otherwise be better.

That’s where this wonderful and amazing new snack obsession comes in. Chickpeas are a lot healthier than chips and since they’re high in fiber, they keep you full longer and who doesn’t need more fiber in their diet? It’s simple to make with easy-to-find ingredients and once you try it, you will be hooked too!

Snack Obsession: Oven-Roasted Chickpeas

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Recipe type: Snack

Cuisine: gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, dairy free

Prep time:  15 mins

Cook time:  30 mins

Total time:  45 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• Spray olive oil
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• pinch of cayenne pepper
• sea salt; to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F
2. After you’ve drained and rinsed the chickpeas, you want to make sure they’re good and dry and ready for roasting. Place them on a paper towel, cover with another one and lightly roll the chickpeas to remove the moisture
3. Remove the skins that have come off, and place on a foil-lined baking sheet making sure it’s a single layer (you don’t want overlapping).
4. Give a light spray of olive oil (you don’t want it too oiled or it won’t roast well) and sprinkle the seasonings on top.
5. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes; remove and stir and shuffle around the chickpeas and place in the oven for an additional 15 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, let cool and eat to your heart’s desire!

Notes

Try different seasoning combinations! You can use cinnamon and nutmeg and have a sweeter treat. Try just plain black pepper and sea salt if you don’t like strong flavors. Mix it up a bit and play with the amounts of seasoning until you get your favourite.

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 This recipe is naturally gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and vegan.

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/snack-obsession-oven-roasted-chickpeas/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/snack-obsession-oven-roasted-chickpeas/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/VQ2IV2rBdks/ http://accustomedchaos.com/i-dont-understand-it-but-i-do-love-it-links-of-interest/#comments Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:09:42 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7906 One of my favourite things about being a mom has to be watching my kids develop into who they are going to be. They all have very unique personalities and it’s easy to see what they love and what they can’t stand. Bean loves all things fashion. Yes, I buy the clothes, but she comes [...]

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One of my favourite things about being a mom has to be watching my kids develop into who they are going to be. They all have very unique personalities and it’s easy to see what they love and what they can’t stand.

Bean loves all things fashion. Yes, I buy the clothes, but she comes up with the most fun and strange combinations that just can’t be explained. Here she has a leopard-pink costume on inside out paired with backwards pants, necklaces and one belt, handbag type thing. Plus, there are a few Lalaloopy dolls tucked into her pants.

I don’t get it, but I do love it!

A Few Other Things I’ve Written:

• 10 Cards That Accurately Explain Life With Infertility | Babble.com
• 7 Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Sex | Babble.com
• 10 Hidden Sources of Gluten | YummyMummyClub
• 4 Best Sex Positions After Having a Baby | SheKnows.ca

Things You Just Gotta See:

• Happiness in Pure Form | Instagram
• Do You Ever Do Dessert For Dinner? | Instagram
• I Got ID’d at Target to Buy Gossip Girl? | Twitter

Things I’m Oogling Over:

• Let’s Have a Party Board | Pinterest

*****

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/i-dont-understand-it-but-i-do-love-it-links-of-interest/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/i-dont-understand-it-but-i-do-love-it-links-of-interest/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/tfyVDbhrKQU/ http://accustomedchaos.com/how-to-make-perfect-bacon-every-time/#comments Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:15:32 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7892 I haven’t really met anyone who doesn’t love bacon. I know my house is a big fan and with there being 5 of us here, making bacon for all of us used to be a chore. A big, messy, probably-going-to-burn-myself ordeal and it really wasn’t a good scene for me. I have discovered though, that we can [...]

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I haven’t really met anyone who doesn’t love bacon. I know my house is a big fan and with there being 5 of us here, making bacon for all of us used to be a chore. A big, messy, probably-going-to-burn-myself ordeal and it really wasn’t a good scene for me.

I have discovered though, that we can have our bacon, without the mess, without the spitting grease and it takes only a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for those busy mornings and the big bonus, it makes perfect bacon, every time.

How to Make Perfect Bacon, Every Time

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Recipe type: Staple

Cuisine: All-the-people

Prep time:  5 mins

Cook time:  20 mins

Total time:  25 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 package of bacon

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with foil (optional: place a grill rack on top) line the bacon on top , arranging so they don’t touch
2. Place in non-preheated oven at 400°F and cook for 18-20 minutes or until crispy and brown.
3. Remove from heat and transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to absorb any grease

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Enjoy!

Photo credit: adapted from Dinner Series/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/how-to-make-perfect-bacon-every-time/feed/ 3 http://accustomedchaos.com/how-to-make-perfect-bacon-every-time/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/m_o0xrC8p5Y/ http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-meals-instagram/#comments Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:00:50 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7863 When I tell someone that we’re on a gluten-free diet at home, I am often asked what we eat. I can say that when I first went on the diet, I was worried that our meals would be boring, that they would be limited and difficult to keep things fresh and new. Guess what? There [...]

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When I tell someone that we’re on a gluten-free diet at home, I am often asked what we eat. I can say that when I first went on the diet, I was worried that our meals would be boring, that they would be limited and difficult to keep things fresh and new.

Guess what? There are a lot of meals that are naturally gluten-free or just in need of slight modification. They’re not any more expensive than a regular meal and they are perfect for the busy family — only taking on average 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Tomato Soup and Grilled Eggplant

Perfect for lunch and quick to make when you use a commercial gluten-free & dairy-free soup (this one is Creamy Tomato by Imagine) and add in chopped green onion and some pepper. I paired it with grilled eggplant (marinated with balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt & pepper & grilled on medium heat for 5 minutes per side) for the perfect lunch meal.

 

 

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-meals-instagram/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-meals-instagram/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/5IIgOKQ7i2I/ http://accustomedchaos.com/thai-inspired-vegetable-soup/#comments Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:56:00 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7878 Late last week, Bean and I were struck down with a cold that left little appetite in either of us. The best thing when your sick seems to be allowing yourself to get a lot of rest, drink water and of course, feed yourself with warm, harty soup. We’re both big fans of Pho soup [...]

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Late last week, Bean and I were struck down with a cold that left little appetite in either of us. The best thing when your sick seems to be allowing yourself to get a lot of rest, drink water and of course, feed yourself with warm, harty soup.

We’re both big fans of Pho soup — Bean loves to use chopsticks to eat the rice noodles and the dish is just amazing. I really wanted some Pho, but couldn’t get out the nearest Pho restaurant so I settled to making the next best thing — homemade Thai-inspired vegetable soup. I had all the ingredients on hand and was thrilled with how easy, yet delicious it was. We both ate it up and this recipe will for sure be making it into our food rotation.

Thai-Inspired Vegetable Soup

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Recipe type: Soup

Cuisine: Gluten free, Thai Food

Prep time:  10 mins

Cook time:  25 mins

Total time:  35 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 cup carrots; chopped
• 1 cup bok choy; chopped
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic; minced
• ½ package vermicelli rice noodles
• salt & pepper to taste
• sriracha to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, add vegetable stock, carrots, green onion, garlic & salt and pepper and bring to a boil
2. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes then add the bok choy and rice noodles.
3. Continue to simmer for 10 minutes or until rice noodles are soft and cooked.
4. Serve in bowl and top with sriracha hot sauce

Notes

Add in additional vegetables such as mushroom, celery, snow peas, bean sprouts or add coriander

3.2.1596

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/thai-inspired-vegetable-soup/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/thai-inspired-vegetable-soup/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/LClUxFin1GY/ http://accustomedchaos.com/super-cheesy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/#comments Fri, 01 Mar 2013 15:53:14 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7836 There are sometimes where all you want is something hearty, good for the cold weather and not particularly good for you. One of my favourite comfort foods has to be macaroni and cheese. I don’t have it too often since I shouldn’t really be eating dairy and my husband certainly can’t handle the lactose, but [...]

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There are sometimes where all you want is something hearty, good for the cold weather and not particularly good for you. One of my favourite comfort foods has to be macaroni and cheese. I don’t have it too often since I shouldn’t really be eating dairy and my husband certainly can’t handle the lactose, but once in a while I make a little bit for myself.

This recipe is full of not-that-great-for-you cheese and topped with chips, bacon and butter, but there is no doubt that this recipe is one of the most tasty macaroni and cheese dishes I’ve ever had.

Super Cheesy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Recipe type: Dinner, pasta dish

Cuisine: gluten free

Prep time:  15 mins

Cook time:  30 mins

Total time:  45 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 package of corn elbow noodles
• 1.5 cups Velveeta cheese (cut into ½-inch cubes)
• ⅓ cup of milk
• ½ sweet onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup bacon bits
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup crushed gluten free nacho chips (cheese flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• salt and pepper to taste
• sprinkle of parmesean cheese

Instructions

1. Cook elbow pasta to directions on package, drain and put back in the pot
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
3. Stir in Velveeta cheese, onion and milk into the pasta until well blended and cheese is melted. Add salt and pepper to your taste
4. Pour cheesy pasta into an oven-safe cookware, top with crushed chips, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, parmesean cheese and butter
5. Place in oven and bake for 30-40 minutes

3.2.1596

 

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/super-cheesy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/feed/ 1 http://accustomedchaos.com/super-cheesy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/B5dmHtANUOs/ http://accustomedchaos.com/wishing-lots-of-love-links-of-interest/#comments Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:27:10 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7823 I hope you all had a wonderful Valentine’s Day yesterday. I am not a big fan of the mushy-gushy stuff myself, but the kids really got into it this year. Anyone else have their kids come home with almost as much stuff as they did on Halloween? I was surprised — and had a big [...]

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I hope you all had a wonderful Valentine’s Day yesterday. I am not a big fan of the mushy-gushy stuff myself, but the kids really got into it this year. Anyone else have their kids come home with almost as much stuff as they did on Halloween? I was surprised — and had a big mom-fail and didn’t bring in a  snack for Raru who’s class had a parent bring in cupcakes for Valentine’s Day.

My husband got me some roses, wine, chocolate and made me an appointment for some alone time! He called my hair salon and set up a color/cut and brow wax and even got the same stylists I always have. Impressed & looking forward to it!

Links of Interest for the Week:

• 12 Tips for Getting Your Kids Out the Door On Time For School – For those crazy mornings.
• 7 Things Your Partner Might Want to Avoid When You’re Trying to Conceive – TV, Coffee and Briefs
• 10 Pictures of George the Kat Playing Dress Up – Hank from Breaking Bad? Woody from Toy Story?

Things You Just Gotta See:

• My Valentine – How could you not love her?
• 13 Months | 5th Medicated – Hoping any time now.
• Betty or Veronica – Treating myself.
  

Pins I’m Oogling Over:

• The Dork Side  – Dork love for baby
  
• Watermelon Breeze – Pour me a glass!
• Sweat pants led me wrong – Someecard humor

Fun News:

I have joined two more Canadian teams this month! I am now a contributing writer for SheKnows Canada — you can read my first article “14 Ways to keep the spark alive when you’re trying to conceive“

I am also now have a column on YummyMummyClub called “Life (Un)Restricted” where I will be sharing tips, tricks and recipes for living life with restrictions such as celiac disease, allergies and intolerances.

*****

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/wishing-lots-of-love-links-of-interest/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/wishing-lots-of-love-links-of-interest/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/qXGOuOOHdMI/ http://accustomedchaos.com/the-importance-of-reading-labels-when-you-have-celiac-disease/#comments Fri, 08 Feb 2013 21:28:19 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7798 When you’ve got something as serious as a food allergy or celiac disease, reading food labels becomes second-nature. When you’re first diagnosed with a food allergy or Celiac disease, the learning curve is quite high while you learn the basics over what you can and can no longer have in your diet. As the time [...]

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When you’ve got something as serious as a food allergy or celiac disease, reading food labels becomes second-nature. When you’re first diagnosed with a food allergy or Celiac disease, the learning curve is quite high while you learn the basics over what you can and can no longer have in your diet.

As the time passes and living with your food restrictions becomes more second-nature, you will find that you read the labels quicker, picking out the offending ingredients. The problem is, when it comes to serious restrictions — you should always read the food labels.

Yes, always.

Always check the label

When living with celiac disease, you need to take serious care when it comes to choosing what to put in your body. If you’re eating something that is not prepared by yourself with naturally gluten-free ingredients, you should always double check the ingredients list before you purchase (or eat). Even if the product was safe before, they could change the recipe and that’s not unheard of.

Don’t eat without a label

Also, never eat something prepared that does not have a label on it. Unless it came straight from nature (like fresh fruit and vegetables) and is naturally gluten free. I always say, when in doubt do without. I am still working on this when it comes to eating elsewhere (like if a friend goes and prepares food, I still have that “don’t want to feel rude” attitude, which is not good). If you want to eat at a restaurant and want to check into some of the ingredients to see if it’s safe — ask to see their ingredient binder. If they don’t have one or the chef can not answer simple questions — find somewhere else.

It may look the same, but not be the same

There are many products that look the same that are made of totally different ingredients. One may be safe for the gluten free diet and the other may contain serious gluten. One example is Canadian Smarties vs M&M’s — they both look very similar and you could assume they have the same ingredients, but you would be wrong. The regular chocolate M&M’s contains gluten-free ingredients while the Smarties has wheat listed in the ingredients, making it not safe.  There are many BBQ sauces that are gluten free and other brands that are not — so always, always check.

It’s more than just food

You can’t just read food labels, but other products may contain gluten that are not safe when you have celiac disease. Shampoo and conditioner, moisturizer and lipsticks can all contain gluten. It’s important to learn the scientific names for gluten so you can double check that what you’re about to use is safe — if there is any chance of the product entering your mouth.

Some people may wonder why you need to be so strict, they assume that surely it can’t be that bad, but taking care of your health and insuring minimum gluten contamination can mean the difference between being sick and being healthy. It’s not a step you really want to skip on — ever.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/the-importance-of-reading-labels-when-you-have-celiac-disease/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/the-importance-of-reading-labels-when-you-have-celiac-disease/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/QpQP4nC_xjY/ http://accustomedchaos.com/meet-the-newest-member-of-our-family-links-of-interest/#comments Sun, 03 Feb 2013 20:24:16 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7786 Since losing Puff, Ming and I have been quite sad and lonely. I feared Ming would die of a broken heart since he’s never been apart from Puff ever and so we made the decision to adopt a cat from the local animal shelter. Meet Ariel — a 2 year old tabby cat who has [...]

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Since losing Puff, Ming and I have been quite sad and lonely. I feared Ming would die of a broken heart since he’s never been apart from Puff ever and so we made the decision to adopt a cat from the local animal shelter. Meet Ariel — a 2 year old tabby cat who has melted all our hearts and has everyone wrapped around her little paw. She has been an amazing addition to our family and I can’t put into words what she’s done for our family’s spirit already.

She’s been home for about a week and we’re currently transitioning her onto a gluten free diet from what she was fed at the shelter. She’s a sweet girl who purrs when you pick her up, lets you rock her like a baby and doesn’t get fazed by all the chaos around here.

Links of Interest for the Week:

• 8  Harmless Things That Are Dangerous When You Have Kids – Have you stepped on Lego in the Dark?
• 8 Things to Stop Doing While Supporting Your Friend with Secondary Infertility – There is a wrong way
• 10 Football Related Products for Your Superbowl-Loving Dogs – Want football-shaped dog cookies?

Photos You Just Gotta See:

• 5 Things About Me – Sharing 5 random things you may not know about me
• Yellow Skinny Jeans – Raru has a great sense of fashion
• Vine App – Have you tried it yet?
  

Pins I’m Oogling Over:

• It’s a Pig — Tiny pig in a lawn chair
  
• Smiguel – Gollum for the win
• Cake Batter Protein Shake – How could you go wrong?

Fun News:

This week, I have my first post up on 5 Minutes for Mom as one of their new Food Bloggers. I share a new naturally gluten-free side dish that all the kids actually ate — Roasted Baby Bok Choy with Garlic Salt

*****

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/meet-the-newest-member-of-our-family-links-of-interest/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/meet-the-newest-member-of-our-family-links-of-interest/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/Nnul-CLuc0c/ http://accustomedchaos.com/12-gluten-free-substitutes-for-everyday-things/#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2013 19:58:26 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7765 When I first went gluten-free I thought my love for food was going to be over. I mean, how do you eat without wheat — the pasta, the cookies and oh, the bread?! That’s a common reaction for anyone faced with needing to modify their diet either due to a diagnosis of celiac disease or [...]

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When I first went gluten-free I thought my love for food was going to be over. I mean, how do you eat without wheat — the pasta, the cookies and oh, the bread?! That’s a common reaction for anyone faced with needing to modify their diet either due to a diagnosis of celiac disease or a wheat allergy, or on the advisement of their health care provider for a multitude of health issues.

It’s been six years since I’ve been gluten free and guess what — my diet is awesome. I don’t miss much of anything and have discovered there are many simple solutions and substitutions for gluten-free eating and it’s not as complicated as you may think.

1) Cucumber for crackers

It’s so much healthier and the low-carb is a big benefit too. Just take cucumber slices and use them in place of crackers. Can be topped with hummus, deli meat and cheese or cream cheese.

2) Corn pasta for wheat pasta

I have tested out a lot of gluten-free pastas and there is no better than a corn pasta. It stands up to my gluten-eating husband’s taste buds and you can’t tell the difference! It cooks the same, has the same texture and the taste is no different.

3) Lettuce for burger buns

Cut out the gluten and the carbs and use lettuce leaves! Big lettuce like romaine works well and you’ll get to enjoy the burger taste without overfilling on the bun.

4) Rice cakes for bread (sandwiches, bagels)

They work for everything — peanut butter and jelly sandwich (just using one rice cake), you can top with tuna salad, cream cheese — enjoy any type of sandwich open-faced style with a rice cake.

5) Tostadas for wheat flour tortillas

Not the same texture as a wheat flour tortilla, but a good option is tostadas (a flat-typed taco). Alternatively, you can always make your own soft tortillas using masa harina, water and a tortilla press

6) Cauliflower for pizza crust

So good, so healthy and now gluten free — this pizza crust recipe will leave you feeling happy, full and the low-carb is a huge bonus. I love a recipe that doesn’t have complicated ingredients or instructions and this one is too good!

7) Corn starch for gravy thickening

If you’re making your own gravy or cheese sauce and the recipe calls for flour for thickening — just sub that out for corn starch. It does the same thing and it’s gluten free.

8) Gluten free flour mix for any flour recipe

Make a batch of this up ahead of time and you’re all set for any recipe. Use this as a direct sub for any wheat flour recipe and you have just opened up a lot of doors for awesome baked goods!

9) Spaghetti squash for spaghetti noodles

Spaghetti squash is just so awesome and if you want to try something other than corn pasta for your spaghetti — this is the way to go. Cook up the squash, toss with your meat and sauce of choice and you will be in happy-eating heaven.

10) Rice crackers crushed for bread crumbs

If you’re making a recipe that calls for bread crumbs like meatloaf, take gluten free rice crackers, crush up and use in place of the bread crumbs. If you want to up the taste, use a flavored rice cracker like cheese — it will be so good.

11) Zucchini for lasagna noodle

I have a good rice lasagna noodle that I like to use, but sometimes that meal can just feel so heavy. In place of the noodle, try using zucchini! Cut length-wise to mimic the shape of the lasagna noodle and prepare the same way you would a traditional lasagna. You’ll be left with a healthier version that’s low carb and gluten free!

12) Quinoa for oatmeal

Oats are not considered gluten free in Canada so that means they’re off the table if you want to be strictly gluten free. Don’t worry though if you’re used to hot oatmeal for breakfast — I have something better! Using quinoa in place will not leave you feeling like it’s some lousy substitute, in fact I bet you’ll think it’s even better.

:: What’s your favourite gluten free substitution? ::

 Photo credit: adapted from various brennemans / Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/12-gluten-free-substitutes-for-everyday-things/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/12-gluten-free-substitutes-for-everyday-things/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/kv7m3Man2_A/ http://accustomedchaos.com/8-phrases-you-should-stop-being-afraid-to-say-to-your-kids/#comments Wed, 23 Jan 2013 19:43:05 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7678 When you look at the whole scheme of parenting, it can feel overwhelming. You’re responsible for this whole new person — and decisions you make can have a huge impact on how they grow up, how they feel about themselves and how well they do in life. Crazy, right? With all that riding on parenting, [...]

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When you look at the whole scheme of parenting, it can feel overwhelming. You’re responsible for this whole new person — and decisions you make can have a huge impact on how they grow up, how they feel about themselves and how well they do in life. Crazy, right? With all that riding on parenting, it’s no wonder why we all want to make sure we’re doing the best we can.

A few years ago, there was a weird shift in parenting that I noticed. There were parents who wanted to give their kids everything so they would always say “yes” and never wanted to use the word “no”. Then, another group felt that giving their kids enforcement like “good job” was setting them up for expectations that were not “real world” enough.

When I first became a parent, I was reading all this stuff wondering how best to talk to my kids — how much positive reinforcement to give them so they felt loved, yet didn’t lower expectations. I wanted to do the best that I could and give my kids the best they could have — and I lost sight of one real thing. Kids are human and so am I. I let go of all those “how to talk to your kids” rules and realized that the 8 phrases I was afraid to say — are actually healthy for my kids to hear.

1) “I’m sorry”

I have really learned that kids learn best through modeling. One manner that I have wanted them to have is the ability to apologize and to say sorry when needed. I would instruct them to say sorry when I felt they needed, yet didn’t really say it much myself. Now, if I’ve done something wrong, forgotten something or was out of line — with my kids — I am not afraid to say that I’m sorry.

2) “No”

It was a word I thought I shouldn’t say to my kids, but I am not afraid to use it anymore. It’s followed up with an explanation  but I believe that this is not a bad word and in my opinion, it’s better than the “because I said so” many parents use.

3) “Good job!”

You know what? I love hearing when I am doing a good job — in work, life or anything. I like to hear positive feedback and it does a good thing for the spirit. I don’t know if I understand why many don’t think this is a good thing to say to kids, but I think positive enforcement can go a long way for kids self-esteem and it makes my kid’s face glow when they’re told they’re doing well.

4) “I don’t know”

I don’t have all the answers and I don’t want my kids to think I do. If they ask something I don’t have the answer to — I feel no shame telling them that I don’t know. Sometimes we will talk about what we think it means and sometimes we will look it up. For me, this is an important one for my son to hear me say since he gets upset if he doesn’t know something he thinks he should.

5) “Can you play alone for a minute?”

I don’t have to entertain my kids every moment of every day — and I don’t. I think unstructured alone play is important and healthy for both the kids and for me. I ask them to play alone (or better yet, with each other) daily and don’t feel bad about it at all. Neither should you!

6) “I’m so proud of you”

The look my kids get on their face when I tell them I am proud of them means the world to me and it’s amazing to see. I think so often we’re busy parenting through re-direction and telling kids what they should be doing differently and this positive statement can make a huge difference.

7) “Yes, I made a mistake”

I am not perfect — far from it. If I lose my temper with the kids (hello, Clomid makes me a bit loopy), I am not afraid to tell them that I’ve made a mistake and then #2 comes back into play here too and I apologize. It’s a great way to model this behavior for my kids and shows them that time goes on when you’ve made a mistake.

8) “Just wait a moment, please”

My kids don’t dictate my time and if I am busy with something and they want my attention, I’m not afraid to ask them to wait a minute. Whether I am busy working for a moment, focusing on dinner or just need a few minutes of quiet — asking them to wait is perfectly okay to do.

Photo credit: adapted from LarimdaME /Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/8-phrases-you-should-stop-being-afraid-to-say-to-your-kids/feed/ 3 http://accustomedchaos.com/8-phrases-you-should-stop-being-afraid-to-say-to-your-kids/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/d9sd_j-wZKA/ http://accustomedchaos.com/dairy-free-green-tea-fruit-veggie-smoothie/#comments Sat, 19 Jan 2013 19:34:01 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7730 If you're looking for an uber-healthy way to start your day -- try this green tea smoothie. Naturally gluten and dairy free and packed full of vitamins for energy and tastes amazing!

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I have been trying to increase my metabolism since it decided to go at a slow climb thanks to some hormonal imbalances and a pretty serious gluten contamination. When this happens, it seems like my stomach can’t handle eating much of anything as well as extreme fatigue and the only way to get through it is to eat — often and healthily and to take care of myself.

One way I am trying to do this is to make sure I eat breakfast, no matter how crazy or busy my mornings are, it’s important and it sets my whole day up right. Since I don’t have a whole lot of time to make or eat food and I want the best “bang for my buck”, my go-to breakfast is this amazing gluten-free and dairy-free smoothie. It’s got the power punches of spinach, green tea and fruits all in one serving — and it tastes amazing.

Prep time:  5 mins

Cook time:  2 mins

Total time:  7 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 cup baby spinach
• 5 strawberries; tops cut off
• 1 cup of strong brewed green tea
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 kiwi; pealed (or ¼ cup blueberries)

Instructions

1. In a blender, add all ingredients and blend until fruit and spinach are liquified and smooth.
2. Serve immediately

3.1.09

 Try experimenting with different fruits, try adding Greek yogurt or avocado. Add in a spice like cinnamon and get the perfect taste-profile you like. Such a delicious way to make sure you’re getting the right nutrients and it’s perfect for any busy day — no excuses!

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/dairy-free-green-tea-fruit-veggie-smoothie/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/dairy-free-green-tea-fruit-veggie-smoothie/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/K2NlaeMEH5M/ http://accustomedchaos.com/5-must-know-hair-care-tips-for-blondes/#comments Fri, 18 Jan 2013 23:20:36 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7708 Whether you were born with blonde hair or get a little help with the brightening, caring for blonde hair to have it looking it's best takes some work. Check out these 5 tried and true tips I've learned through a lifetime of blonde hair.

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I have been a blonde for my whole life — born one and except for a brief 6-month trial of going dark brown, I’ve always had various shades of the “more fun” color. When I was younger, being blonde didn’t really mean more care for my hair, but now that I’m older and need a little (salon) help to stay blonde, there are some extra tricks and steps I do to make sure my hair doesn’t get damaged, dry out and still looks it’s best.

1) Go to a salon

Sure you can buy bleach kits from the store and generally that’s way cheaper than going to the salon, but some things are just worth the money. Going blonde is one of them — for anyone with light to dark hair (especially important if you have dark hair). Your salon professional will ensure you’re getting the right shade without destroying your hair in the process — which is easier to do than you think.

2) Use a purple shampoo

If you’ve ever had blond hair and noticed it kind of turns a brassy color or has a yellow hue to it — it’s common for blondes. I had this issue big time until I found out about the awesome invention — purple shampoo! It contains anti-yellowing agents in it that prevent the unwanted yellow tones that often creep up for blondes. The product I use is SILVER by L’Oreal Professional, but have heard great things about Redkin Blonde Glam Perfect Platinum.

3) Don’t wash your hair every day

For anyone who has color treated hair, washing too much can not only strip your color, but can leave your hair void of any moisturizers. If you’re not naturally blonde (even if you just have a few highlights), moisturizer will be your best friend to prevent dryness that comes from bleaching. If you can, wash your hair every third day (or longer if you can stand it). This will help cut down on the drying factor of many shampoos and it’s likely you won’t be using any heat-products like a hair dryer or flat iron which also can dry out your hair.

4) Use a color-protecting shampoo

Color protecting shampoo is a good thing for blondes so the shine and color won’t be washed away too quickly. It often has extra moisturizers in it to keep your hair healthy looking and feeling.

5) Use a Coconut Oil Mask

Having blonde hair and making frequent-ish trips to the salon for brightening can do a doozie on your hair. Having a good hydrating mask for your help will help keep your hair soft and manageable instead of dry and brittle. I use a coconut oil on my mask — it’s natural, doesn’t have a smell to it and it’s only one ingredient. Take some coconut oil and rub into your hair. Leave on as long as you’re comfortable with (if you’re not going out, keep it in for a few hours) and then wash out. Your hair will thank you!

:: What tricks and tips have you found works to keep your blonde hair rocking? ::

Image credit: adapted from Stuhli_Image / Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/5-must-know-hair-care-tips-for-blondes/feed/ 4 http://accustomedchaos.com/5-must-know-hair-care-tips-for-blondes/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/VW5EYjw2vCw/ http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-acorn-squash-with-cinnamon-and-nutmeg/#comments Wed, 16 Jan 2013 19:46:21 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7697 Sweet and buttery flavor, acorn squash is simple to prepare with a delicious wow-factor. Naturally gluten free and easily made dairy free, this recipe is one the whole family will love.

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Baked Acorn Squash with Cinnamon and Nutmeg

 

Author: Devan McGuinness

Nutrition Information

• Serves: 4

• Calories: 189

• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 35.8 g
• Fiber: 3.2 g

Recipe type: Side Dish

Cuisine: Gluten Free

Prep time:  10 mins

Cook time:  1 hour

Total time:  1 hour 10 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash, cut in half lengthwise & seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vegan margarine (or butter if you’re not dairy free)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
2. Turn acorn squash cut-side down onto a cookie sheet. Place in preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, until soft
3. Remove from oven and place cut-side up in an oven-safe dish. Lightly scrape the squash with a fork
4. Top squash with margarine, nutmeg, cinnamon and brown sugar
5. Place back into preheated oven for another 20-30 minutes

3.1.09

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-acorn-squash-with-cinnamon-and-nutmeg/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-acorn-squash-with-cinnamon-and-nutmeg/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/Hrf3OZyZd88/ http://accustomedchaos.com/saying-goodbye-to-puff/#comments Sat, 12 Jan 2013 20:08:27 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7686 I have had one difficult week — in the span of a few days, I had a confirmed chemical pregnancy and on top of that had to make the decision to say goodbye to the one thing that’s seen me through everything and more — my cat Puff. He died peacefully at home in my [...]

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I have had one difficult week — in the span of a few days, I had a confirmed chemical pregnancy and on top of that had to make the decision to say goodbye to the one thing that’s seen me through everything and more — my cat Puff. He died peacefully at home in my arms with the help of a loving and caring veterinarian with my husband and Ming-Ming by his side. I miss him more than I can really say and grieving while on Clomid has been interesting. I appreciate all the sweet words so many of you have offered, it helps so much.

Links of Interest for the Week:

• Most Popular Baby Names from 100 Years Ago – I never hear “Dorthy” anymore.
• 15 Ways to Connect With Your Child When You Have 15 Minutes – everyone has 15 minutes
• 15 Cats Who Look Like Pin-Up Models – you have to see it to believe it
  
• 7 Things I’ve Gotten Tired of Hearing After a Year of Trying to Conceive – people mean well, but …
  
• What to Have on Hand For When Your Kids Say “I’m Bored” – boredom basket to the rescue
• 10 Cats Who Are Overly-Attached – oddly enough, not an oxymoron

Photos You Just Gotta See:

• I Got Myself Some New Glasses — I can see again
• Filling the Void — my kids trying to comfort me
• 4th Time’s a Charm? — Clomid round 4

Pins I’m Oogling Over:

• Matte and Shiny – chevron done right
  
• Creative Cursing — hello, win!
• Hair Envy – can it be mine?

I will be speaking at a conference in Toronto, Ontario during April called MomThrive. It’s the first conference dedicated the self-care of all moms. I will be hosting a panel on Self-Care During Grief. Be sure to pick up a ticket (for you & a friend) before they’re sold out!

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/saying-goodbye-to-puff/feed/ 6 http://accustomedchaos.com/saying-goodbye-to-puff/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/gOwmvQn3ZI8/ http://accustomedchaos.com/letter-from-my-daughter/#comments Sat, 05 Jan 2013 16:00:31 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7664 It was Friday and I was feeling particularly crappy since I have no idea what’s going on with my body. I have been in a rut lately — the toll of infertility has taken me and it’s been a difficult few weeks for me. I was just mindlessly heading to get the mail — most [...]

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It was Friday and I was feeling particularly crappy since I have no idea what’s going on with my body. I have been in a rut lately — the toll of infertility has taken me and it’s been a difficult few weeks for me. I was just mindlessly heading to get the mail — most of it junk, a bill and a mysterious letter with no return address. I rarely get any personal mail, so I opened it first and found a handwritten letter on lined paper that read:

Dear Mommy
I Love You
from  [Raru]

It was the absolute perfect thing for me in that moment. Raru was at my mom’s house a week ago and they mailed this letter to me — envelope, address, stamp and all. A small gesture that was fun for Raru that just meant the world to me. I think we all need to take time to mail a hand-written letter every once in a while.

Links of Interest for the Week:

• 7 Stages of Seeing a Negative Pregnancy Test When Trying to Conceive – starts with denial
• 10 Small Things That Make My Kids Really Angry — it’s easier than it should be
• The 9 Best “Ermahgerd” Animal Pictures Ever — ERMAHGERD!
• 7 Reasons Why Kids and Winter Don’t (or Shouldn’t) Mix — I hate winter
• 8 Habits of An Infertile Who’s Trying to Conceive — obsess much?
• 10 Cats Who Think They’re Actually a Meerkat — cats are just weird

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/letter-from-my-daughter/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/letter-from-my-daughter/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/UHDA5uJEJts/ http://accustomedchaos.com/10-amazing-uses-for-coconut-oil-that-you-need-to-try/#comments Fri, 04 Jan 2013 14:00:34 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7644 Coconut oil has some amazing uses for both personal and beauty that you may not know. Check out 10 amazing uses for coconut oil, you'll thank me!

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I don’t know what took me so long to enjoy the benefits of coconut oil, but I am so glad I have a steady stock of it at home. I only wish I had known about this secret years ago because this stuff is pretty awesome. Naturally gluten and dairy free, I don’t have to worry about what I am using it for and if it will be safe — it totally is.

I use it for everything and anything and it works amazingly for what I want. It can be used in cooking and baking in place of vegetable oil and with a good healthy alternative. While there are still many other uses for coconut oil that I have yet to try, here are 10 that I’ve used it for that has worked wonders for me:

1) Personal lubricant while trying to conceive

It’s not to be used with latex condoms, but if you’re trying to conceive that’s not a problem. I works well and is far more sperm-friendly than the store-brand personal lubricants. It’s totally safe for this use and with no stickiness and no smell, it’s perfect for the job.

2) Hair mask

I use the flat iron and blow dry my hair all the time, but you won’t know it by looking at my hair and that’s all thanks to coconut oil. I massage it into my scalp and then into my hair and leave on for as long as I can before showering. It restores shine and promotes growth and keeps your hair well moisturized to combat the heat from the iron.

3) Make up remover

I struggled to find a make up remover that didn’t burn my eyes or leave my skin feeling dry. I’ve found it with coconut oil. It works amazingly — just rub in in and wipe it off — no fuss. It doesn’t sting the eyes and leaves my skin feeling great, not dry.

4) Helps cracked heals

When the weather is good and you’re feet are tired from wearing the heals and flip-flops and you can see the wear and tear on your feet — coconut oil is to the rescue! Just cover your feet in it and put socks on right before bed and you’ll wake up with the most amazing-looking and feeling feet.

5) Moisturizer for my face

I am terrified of getting wrinkles and have been using anti-aging moisturizer for along time. Since adding coconut oil to my routine, I am noticing not only is it helping to stop any new wrinkles from forming, it gives my skin the most amazing glow,

6) Removes those small white bumps from your arm

If you know what I’m talking about then you know what I am talking about. The tiny white bumps that form on the backs of your arms that no one really knows what they’re from or how to get rid of them. I used coconut oil on my arms and within a week those bumps were gone and have not returned.

7) Smooths out any cellulite when used daily

I swear it works miracles for any skin issues including cellulite and stretch marks. My skin is looking so much smoother and if you use it consistently I am certain you will find the same thing. While I am sure it won’t get rid of stretch marks, but it does make them less red and less noticeable, which is a great bonus!

8) To get rid of yeast or yeast infection

I kid you not and it works well. If you have a yeast spot anywhere you sweat, use coconut oil for a few days and it will be gone. If you have athlete’s foot or fungus on your toes, use coconut oil and it will be gone. If you’re a woman who’s dealing with a yeast infection — using coconut oil as you could the topical cream you can buy and it will work. It also works well for thrush for breastfeeding babies.

9) Reduce frizz and stray-aways in hair

So, not only is it great for moisturizing your hair with a hair mask, it also helps smooth away those pesky static-frizzed hairs. Simply rub a bit of coconut oil in your hand and swipe over your hair and it will hold place and moisturize at the same time without feeling crunchy like some hair gels can.

10) Relieve the chapped nose from blowing my nose during a cold

I get the worst chapped nose when I am sick from blowing and wiping my nose all the time. Now I don’t have to worry about that because I just smooth on some coconut oil when I feel my nose getting sore and it stops it from developing. It’s also amazing for chapped lips too!

:: What benefits have you found from coconut oil? ::

Image credit: adapted from Phú Thịnh Co / Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/10-amazing-uses-for-coconut-oil-that-you-need-to-try/feed/ 8 http://accustomedchaos.com/10-amazing-uses-for-coconut-oil-that-you-need-to-try/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/YF-hdyMDVfo/ http://accustomedchaos.com/mega-bloks-barbie/#comments Thu, 03 Jan 2013 19:30:27 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7621 Christmas was a lot of fun around here. I’d say it was one of the best yet since the kids are old enough now to make lists, get excited and they know what’s going on. One thing my girls asked for this Christmas was some building blocks with characters they could get into (like Speed [...]

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Christmas was a lot of fun around here. I’d say it was one of the best yet since the kids are old enough now to make lists, get excited and they know what’s going on.

One thing my girls asked for this Christmas was some building blocks with characters they could get into (like Speed has with Star Wars sets). Our kids have a huge love for the building sets, but the girls have always kind of felt left out with finding characters they know and building sets that they enjoy. They do still play with Speed’s sets, but it was just not ever the same.

We tried a different brand that offered a set that had female characters my girls could relate to, but for them it just wasn’t the same because these characters were new and there was no real story behind them like there is for the more male-centered sets (like Indiana Jones, Star Wars etc). It’s not that the girls can’t play with them, they just really wanted characters they could relate to — that they already knew.

Then, in came the Mega Bloks® Barbie™ line just in time for Christmas and I had a feeling this is just what my girls were looking for.

The girls got three sets for Christmas this year from the Mega Bloks® Barbie™ line and we also picked up some extra characters to go in their stocking (Speed has so many block-characters we wanted the girls to have ones they just love too) and they spent the day putting the sets together with their dad. Below are the three sets the girls got this Christmas:

What I Loved:

• The product didn’t feel cheap — it’s made with well-crafted plastic
• The instructions were totally easy to follow and the girls were able to snap the pieces together
• May seem small, but the perforated bags inside made opening the product so.much.easier
• There were a lot of pieces in each set and they all can be worked together
• Each of the stand-alone figures came with a small scene to go with them

What Could Be Improved:

• I would love to see more variety as the brand expands into some more non-typical girl situations, but still within the Barbie™ brand
• In the Build ‘n Style Fashion Boutique set the package included 2 left arms instead of left & right. It still fit, but the elbow went out instead of in

The girls were thrilled to have a building block set that they could relate to with a character they already love. My son also really loved to play with the scenes and was happy to see some girl characters. I am sure in the future we will be adding more sets into the house. It’s a great line for anyone who has a child who wants something more than the violent sets offered by other companies.

Disclaimer: I was sent the following products (Build ‘n Style Luxury Mansion, Build ‘n Style Fashion Boutique & Build ‘n Style Ice Cream Cart) free of charge in exchange for a review. We also purchased, on our own, the stand-alone figures. All words and opinion are my own based on our experience.

For more info, read my policies & disclaimers.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/mega-bloks-barbie/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/mega-bloks-barbie/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/5r-9zcwMyCY/ http://accustomedchaos.com/candy-cane-kinnitoos-peppermint-bark/#comments Fri, 28 Dec 2012 19:40:38 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7611 Have left over candy canes from the holiday's or looking for the perfect holiday recipe? Check out this gluten-free (& super simple) recipe featuring Kinnikinnick Foods!

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Candy Cane KinniToos Peppermint Bark

 

Author: Devan McGuinness for Kinnikinnick Foods

Recipe type: dessert

Cuisine: gluten free

Prep time:  10 mins

Total time:  10 mins

Print

Eating gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the holiday treats!

Ingredients

• 1 package of white chocolate bakers chocolate
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
• 15 Kinnikinnick KiniToos Chocolate Vanilla cookies
• 2-5 tablespoons crushed candy canes (to taste)

Instructions

1. Over low heat, slowly melt bakers chocolate and vegetable shortening on the stove top
2. Crush the KinniToos cookies to small bits, reserve
3. Place parchment paper over a cookie sheet and spread the melted chocolate over top in a thin layer
4. Sprinkle the crushed KinniToos and crushed candy canes on top, using as much as you’d like
5. Place in the refrigerator for at least an hour until hardened.
6. Break into small pieces and eat away!

3.1.09

Enjoy!

Post sponsored by Kinnikinnick Foods. Custom recipe created by Devan McGuinness. Interested in trying it out?  Purchase Kinnikinnick Foods Chocolate Vanilla KinniToos at your local store or buy online.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/candy-cane-kinnitoos-peppermint-bark/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/candy-cane-kinnitoos-peppermint-bark/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/09GDKCa13zY/ http://accustomedchaos.com/adult-version-of-tetris/#comments Thu, 27 Dec 2012 19:12:42 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7597 I used to love Tetris, but the game has a whole new effect now that I am older... and it's not as much fun.

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Links of Interest for the Week:

• 7 Reasons I Have the “After-Holiday Blues” - it’s not as much fun when it’s all over
• 7 Most Famous Pets of 2012 - I love me some grumpy cat!
• 7 Ways We’re Keeping Infertility From Destroying Our Marriage - it’s not always so easy
• 12 of the Best Ikea Monkey Memes – IKEA MONKEY
• 10 Things I’ve Learned Through Struggling With Infertility - it’s been a long road
• 12 Snow Day Traditions You Should Totally Do With Your Kids This Winter - Winter is here!

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

Image credit: adapted from Editor B/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/adult-version-of-tetris/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/adult-version-of-tetris/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/31XBEwYd-g8/ http://accustomedchaos.com/bacon-sauteed-brussel-sprout-leaves/#comments Tue, 18 Dec 2012 01:57:15 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7584 The best way to cook brussel sprouts, this recipe will be a hit with anyone, even those who say they can't stand brussel sprouts!

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Bacon-Sautéed Brussel Sprout Leaves

 

Author: Devan McGuinness – AccustomedChaos

Recipe type: Side Dish

Cuisine: Gluten Free; Dairy Free

Print

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon
• 1 pound brussel sprouts
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a fry pan over low-medium heat cook bacon until crispy; chop up and put aside
2. Rinse and drain brussel sprouts. Cut about ¼ inch off the stem end of each sprout and begin peeling off the leaves. W Repeat to peel all leaves from sprouts; discard cores.
3. Using the same fry pan as the bacon (leaving in the bacon grease) over medium heat add in the brussel sprout leaves and salt and pepper
4. Stir until sprout leaves are bright green and slightly wilted but still crunchy, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and add in the chopped bacon set aside earlier

3.1.09

 

Enjoy!

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/bacon-sauteed-brussel-sprout-leaves/feed/ 1 http://accustomedchaos.com/bacon-sauteed-brussel-sprout-leaves/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/JglqhtSRUdM/ http://accustomedchaos.com/5-tips-for-entertaining-your-gluten-free-friends/#comments Fri, 07 Dec 2012 18:31:59 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7549 If you're hosting a gathering and one or more of your friends eat gluten-free, here's what you need to know in order to be a good & accommodating host.

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1) Ask Why They Eat Gluten Free

It  may feel like you’re prying, but the reason for a gluten-free diet will make a big difference in your prep work. If your friend eats gluten-free due to celiac disease, you need to worry about issues with cross contamination. You will have to make sure you’re kitchen is throughout cleaned to remove any trace of gluten possibly coming into contact with the food you’re serving. If your friend eats gluten-free to to gluten intolerance then you won’t have to worry about cross contamination, but will still need to make sure that what you’re serving is in fact 100% gluten free in ingredients. If your friend is eating gluten-free as a lifestyle choice, you won’t need to worry about cross contamination and there won’t be any adverse health reactions if something was served accidentally.

2) Take Their Diet Seriously

With the trend of the gluten-free diet on the rise, it is easy to think that someone is just being picky or trying the latest fad-diet. If someone is eating gluten-free whether that be for celiac disease, intolerance or a lifestyle choice it still must be taken seriously. If it’s your opinion that your friend is just being difficult for the sake of it and they don’t need to eat gluten-free, then don’t offer to host a gathering if you won’t take it seriously  Chances are if someone is eating gluten-free, even as a lifestyle choice, they feel better because of it and that’s important to respect.

3) Ask Your Friend for a List of Brands They Trust

When it comes to gluten-free products, we all have our favourites. We know which brands we can trust, which is good for the money and which ones don’t taste like cardboard. Ask your friend which brands they prefer if you’re looking for bread, deserts or snack ideas — many brands carry multiple products so if you know even just one brand (like my favourite, Kinnikinnick Foods) then you can be sure there will be something on the menu they will enjoy.

4) Cook Naturally Gluten Free Foods

If you’re cooking from scratch you will have a better idea of making sure what you’re serving is gluten free. There’s a myth out there that gluten-free means bad, but when you take a look at all the amazing foods that are naturally gluten free, you have a large ingredient menu to pull from.

5) Ask Them If They Would Be More Comfortable Preparing Their Own Food

When it comes to celiac disease and eating outside the home, it can be tricky and frightening. For some, all it takes is one small accidental cross contamination and they’re sick for weeks or more. While it’s would be nicer to just not have to worry, some people are on a strict gluten free diet and only feel comfortable preparing their own food. Don’t take it personally and don’t insist on doing so if they’ve asked to bring their own food. It likely has nothing to do with your cooking, but all to do with them wanting to avoid the terrible side effects and symptoms of a celiac disease or gluten flair.

:: Do you have any tips on hosting gatherings with gluten-free friends? ::

Photo credit: adapted from Lachlan/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/5-tips-for-entertaining-your-gluten-free-friends/feed/ 4 http://accustomedchaos.com/5-tips-for-entertaining-your-gluten-free-friends/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/98wi6tlmUcU/ http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-garlic-breadsticks/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:00:17 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7538 A simple and delicious way to make gluten-free garlic breadsticks. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer or snack!

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Simple Gluten-Free Garlic Breadsticks featuring Kinnikinnick Foods

 

Author: Devan McGuinness for KinnikinnickFoods.com

Recipe type: Appetizer

Cuisine: gluten free

Print

Ingredients

• 2 Kinnikinnick Personal Sized Pizza Crusts (frozen)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or Vegan margarine)
• 2 large cloves of garlic, smashed and minced
• 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Mix together butter, garlic and parsley until well combined
3. While crust is still frozen, spread the butter mixture on top, covering the whole crust
4. Place crusts on a baking sheet and put into preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until crust is golden brown.
5. Optional: Place cheese on top and broil until melted
6. Cut into strips and serve with warm marinara sauce

#version#

Enjoy!

Post sponsored by Kinnikinnick Foods. Custom recipe created by Devan McGuinness. Interested in trying it out?  Purchase Kinnikinnick Foods Personal Size Pizza Crust at your local store or buy online.

 

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-garlic-breadsticks/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-garlic-breadsticks/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/0ezeyv_3DZs/ http://accustomedchaos.com/finding-the-light-through-infertility/#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:35:03 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7516 I got a call from my doctor earlier this week. He was calling to give me the results of my progesterone blood test I had taken last week. The purpose, to see if Clomid actually worked and ovulation happened. After the first two months of the lowest dose of Clomid, I had my fingers tightly [...]

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I got a call from my doctor earlier this week. He was calling to give me the results of my progesterone blood test I had taken last week. The purpose, to see if Clomid actually worked and ovulation happened.

After the first two months of the lowest dose of Clomid, I had my fingers tightly crossed that it at least worked and pregnancy could happen. The side effects of the drug were not being kind to me and it was making me feel like I was going to lose my mind.

I am not what I would consider a moody person normally, but Clomid makes my patience like non-existent and I feel even crazier. I was one of the peeps who got the bad hot flashes and the headaches every night as well too.

I am still basal body temping and while I knew what I saw, I wondered if the results of the blood test would show the same thing.

I likely didn’t ovulate according to my progesterone results and that’s what my chart has shown too. There is a chance that I ovulated later than I should have, but that’s not ideal while on Clomid either. I have to be honest — I am pretty straight up bummed about it. I was hopeful that the lower dose would work and we’d be on our way to another child by now.

My dose has been doubled for this next cycle (if we’re not pregnant) and with that I am hoping the side effects won’t be doubled as well. I am having a hard time staying positive through all this. I know that there are many of you who have experience walking through infertility and I understand my year long try is not as long as others. It’s hard  not to think about the timing and if everything had gone as I wanted, we would have a newborn in our life already and getting excited for the holidays.

If you have any advice on how to stay positive through infertility or tips for surviving the Clomid side effects, I would be thankful!

You should also read: The Cruel Waiting Game of Infertility

Photo credit: adapted from ajalfaro /Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/finding-the-light-through-infertility/feed/ 6 http://accustomedchaos.com/finding-the-light-through-infertility/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/5ebSWsWdGDk/ http://accustomedchaos.com/blogger-beware-why-you-should-stop-posting-those-photos-of-your-kids/#comments Fri, 30 Nov 2012 20:59:21 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7497 A plea for anyone sharing images of their children online to watch what they post. You never know who's watching and even the most innocent photo can do harm.

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With social media it is so easy now to over-share. It’s a click of a button and always with us on our smart phones. Friends and family far away and we want to keep them updated on our family and bloggers who like to share their world with readers from all over the world. It’s easier to connect with people when they share moments of their lives that we can all relate too, especially when it comes to children.

When I first started blogging almost 3 years ago, I would not share any images of my kids. I slowly started to let the shield down and shared images of them,  but never their full faces. Their names were (and still remain) private online and are known only by their nicknames. It was a parameter that I set on myself when I started blogging and one that I have relaxed on in some degree and won’t on others.

It’s been about a year since I stared sharing my kids faces. It does wonders for a blog which I can see in stats, readers and comments, but that wasn’t the reason for it. It became hard to tell the stories I wanted to with holding such a big part back, so I compromised and now share images … but never their names.

There are some parents who do what I would consider an “over-share” and post very typical and sweet images of their kids with their toddler bums running around the house, splashing in the tub during bath time or crawling with freedom from their diaper. They are sweet and innocent and every day images and real…. but they are also dangerous.

The top image is a screen capture from my analytics. It brought the person searching to a page of mine that had an image of my youngest in a post where I discussed that she doesn’t like to wear clothes. The image was “censored” so likely the person didn’t get what they were looking for and I can see they quickly moved on, but that had me worried for so many of my online friends who do share images — innocent as they are — that are more what someone with pedophilic issues are looking for.

It was my decision to share my life with the world via this blog and the last thing I want (and surely all of you want) is for any harm to come to our children because of it & I certainly do not want my images to be fodder for someone else’s disturbing behavior. I am not saying you should stop, but gently pointing out that perhaps you should give it a second thought before you share  those images of your children, as innocent as they may be, with the whole world, because you really never know who’s reading.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/blogger-beware-why-you-should-stop-posting-those-photos-of-your-kids/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/blogger-beware-why-you-should-stop-posting-those-photos-of-your-kids/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/Rzvh_XvIvpE/ http://accustomedchaos.com/is-wheat-free-the-same-as-gluten-free/#comments Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:02:18 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7463 Common gluten-free question: “Is wheat-free the same as “gluten-free?”  We know that for anyone with food issues it’s important to read the labels carefully to be sure that what you’re about to eat or feed to your family is safe for your specific dietary restrictions. When it comes to gluten-free eating it can often be [...]

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Common gluten-free question:

“Is wheat-free the same as “gluten-free?”

 We know that for anyone with food issues it’s important to read the labels carefully to be sure that what you’re about to eat or feed to your family is safe for your specific dietary restrictions. When it comes to gluten-free eating it can often be confusing because there are so many different names for the different grains (wheat, oats, rye, barley) that contain gluten.

One common question I am asked for those who are new to the gluten-free diet or new to hearing about it relates to the confusing labels and names for gluten. It’s important to know the difference between the two phrases, “wheat-free” and “gluten-free”.

Click through to read the answer to the common question, “is wheat-free the same as gluten-free?”:

Answer: nope! & it’s important to know the difference too!

The big difference here is:

A product can be wheat-free without being gluten-free.

It could be a cereal that doesn’t contain wheat, but may be made with oat or barley which is then NOT gluten-free. However, if a product says it’s “gluten-free” then it’s always “wheat-free” as well.

Labeling laws were tricky here in Canada a few years ago because a product needed to disclose if there was wheat in the product (being one of the top 8 allergens), but didn’t necessarily legal have to disclose if the product contained gluten. Since the new laws were introduced in August, food labels are becoming more clear to include gluten-containing warnings.

Also read: Canadian Food Label Laws Re-Introduced

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/is-wheat-free-the-same-as-gluten-free/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/is-wheat-free-the-same-as-gluten-free/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/qEFFTPazc1g/ http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-problem-a-surprise-centre/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:30:32 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7444 A common problem all of us on a gluten-free diet can relate to that you don't have to deal with if you don't eat gluten-free. #GlutenFreeProblems

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It always seems to happen when you’re really looking forward to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich at the end of a long day. You open a new loaf of store-bought gluten free bread to see a giant hole going straight through the centre. You have to avoid the peanut butter & jelly spread over the hole so you don’t end up wearing most of it and the hole-to-bread ratio is way off.

This is a big name brand gluten free bread that I have had this happen to multiple times. If you’re looking for a good soft bread that I’ve not experienced any hole-surprises — Kinnikinnick Foods new soft bread won’t leave you with a surprise centre.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-problem-a-surprise-centre/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/gluten-free-problem-a-surprise-centre/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/vR0zsqlVd1I/ http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-kale-chip-recipe/#comments Mon, 19 Nov 2012 12:07:36 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7426 I have become a big fan of trying new things to eat and thinking outside the box a little. We are trying to infuse more healthy options into our diet. We generally eat pretty well, but when the cravings for salt (and crunch texture) comes, we have been known to reach for some potato chips. [...]

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I have become a big fan of trying new things to eat and thinking outside the box a little. We are trying to infuse more healthy options into our diet. We generally eat pretty well, but when the cravings for salt (and crunch texture) comes, we have been known to reach for some potato chips.

There are a lot that are gluten free, but really they’re not healthy. I heard about kale chips as an alternative and decided to give them a go. I was thrilled with how easy these were to make and well, they were delicious!

Baked Kale Chips

 

Author: Devan McGuinness – accustomedchaos.com

Nutrition Information

• Serves: 6

• Calories: 58

• Fat: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 2.5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fiber: 1.5g

Recipe type: Snack

Cuisine: gluten free; dairy free

Prep time:  10 mins

Cook time:  10 mins

Total time:  20 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of kale
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt (or sea salt)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
2. Wash and dry the kale thoroughly.
3. With a knife, remove the kale leaves from the stem and break into bit sized pieces.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle on salt place onto a cookie sheet and into preheated oven.
5. Bake for 10 minutes until edges are brown

3.1.09

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-kale-chip-recipe/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/baked-kale-chip-recipe/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/5r8DRVD3XIo/ http://accustomedchaos.com/beauty-tip-quick-simple-way-to-get-rid-of-an-acne-breakout/#comments Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:05:16 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7393 This past weekend I felt like I was 14 years old again and not in a good way. Thanks to my crazy out of tune hormones, I started to get some blemishes on my face around my nose and chin. Not a cute look for a 30-year old woman and it’s something I haven’t had [...]

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This past weekend I felt like I was 14 years old again and not in a good way. Thanks to my crazy out of tune hormones, I started to get some blemishes on my face around my nose and chin. Not a cute look for a 30-year old woman and it’s something I haven’t had to deal with in a while.

I have a very strict routine when it comes to taking care of the skin on my face. I am afraid of wrinkles and do what I can to try and keep my skin healthy, so this new look was something I wanted to get rid of quickly. Thankfully, I remembered a ‘treatment’ I did when I had this problem in high school, tried it out and happily it still worked! It’s simple and cheap and so if you ever find yourself with a breakout or two (or want to have add something new to your skin care routine) this is simple to do and it works!

Tutorial: How to Get Rid of a Bad Acne Breakout

 

Author: Devan McGuinness, accustomedchaos.com

Print

Use as a spot treatment for one area or all over the face for bad acne or as part of your regular routine

Ingredients

• 2-5 uncoated aspirin
• spoon
• 1 teaspoon warm water

Instructions

1. Using the back side of the spoon, crush the aspirin into a powder
2. Add 1 drop of water at a time to the crushed aspirin until it’s a thick paste
3. Apply over a cleansed face and leave on for 20 minutes
4. Wash off and apply moisturiser

3.1.09

 

Aspirin works by not only drying out the blemish, but since it’s an anti-inflammatory it reduces the size and swelling of the skin and you will find the redness goes down as well. You can use this as a spot treatment or use 2-3 times a week all over your face as part of your regular face routine. Just a note, aspirin could dry the skin if you use it too much so be sure to moisturise well afterwards.

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/beauty-tip-quick-simple-way-to-get-rid-of-an-acne-breakout/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/beauty-tip-quick-simple-way-to-get-rid-of-an-acne-breakout/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/HRzqr_UGunA/ http://accustomedchaos.com/silence-is-not-golden/#comments Sun, 21 Oct 2012 16:27:53 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7380 I have had a long, long week my friends! The kids have been home from school basically the whole week as we battle out a cold, flu and of course, pink eye. I still have this cough that won’t quit, but thankfully the kids seem well enough to go back to school at the start [...]

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I have had a long, long week my friends! The kids have been home from school basically the whole week as we battle out a cold, flu and of course, pink eye. I still have this cough that won’t quit, but thankfully the kids seem well enough to go back to school at the start of the week. That means I can enjoy some quiet without having to worry about what they are destroying now!

Links of Interest for the Week:

• 7 Ways He Should Not React to the News That You’re Pregnant - there are good ways + there are bad ways
• 8 Common Things That Are Luxuries For Moms - like warm meals
• 7 Worst Mistakes That Parents Make When Talking to Kids - we all make them, find out what they are
• 10 Things You Shouldn’t Do When Your Wife is in Labor - pass on to the men you know!
• 17 Guinea Pigs Dressed Up For Halloween - the cuteness!!

More posts not to miss:

• 10 Reasons I Can’t Stand Cold + Flu Season - more than just annoying
• 12 Reasons Why Dogs Are Better Than People - they just always seem so happy!
• 14 Cats Perplexed By Their Own Face - mirror, mirror on the wall…
• Top 20 Boy Names of 2012 - do you like to see your kids name on the list?

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/silence-is-not-golden/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/silence-is-not-golden/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/BiuNHoEQJXQ/ http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-snack-ideas/#comments Mon, 15 Oct 2012 13:30:13 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7356 Gluten free and a busy schedule does not have to be an oxymoron. There are a lot of quick snack options thanks to so many of the best foods being naturally gluten free. I prefer to eat as naturally gluten free as possible — it saves on stress of finding products, it reduces the processed [...]

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Gluten free and a busy schedule does not have to be an oxymoron. There are a lot of quick snack options thanks to so many of the best foods being naturally gluten free. I prefer to eat as naturally gluten free as possible — it saves on stress of finding products, it reduces the processed foods and it can be quite a lot cheaper to swap out something in place of a naturally gluten free alternative.

Whether you’re looking for an after school snack or an energy boost to get you through the next phone conference, there are plenty of delicious and effective snack ideas that are safe for your gluten free diet.

1) Fresh Fruit: All fresh fruit is naturally gluten free and makes a great snack when you’re pressed for time. Enjoy a banana, apple slices or some sweet pineapple. Keeping fruit around all the time (and change which ones for the season) will also help make sure you get enough of them in your diet.

2) Veggies + Hummus: Vegetables are insanely good for you and naturally gluten free as well. Enjoy some carrot sticks, celery and green pepper with a home-made hummus dip when you need a quick pick-up. Recipe: Jalapeño Hummus

3) Boiled Eggs: A perfect size with a good punch of protein, boiled eggs are a great quick snack. Take 20 minutes every Sunday to make a whole carton of boiled eggs and store in the fridge for those quick moments. Recipe: Boiled Eggs

4) Apple Snack Sandwiches: Who doesn’t love the apple and peanut butter combination? If you’re looking for something that’s filling, healthy and quick, grabbing an apple and dipping it in peanut butter is the perfect snack. Try something new like using apple slices as ‘bread’! Recipe: Apple Peanut Butter Sandwich

5) Canned Tuna: Another naturally gluten free food, tuna is great for snack time because it’s super quick and has enough protein to keep you going until your next meal. The store often has those smaller tins now too if you find the regular size to be too much. Open the can, add a tablespoon of yellow mustard, stir together and enjoy!

6) Rice Cake Sandwich: Rice cakes are so much cheaper than store-bought gluten free bread and makes for a great sandwich. Take one rice cake and topp with peanut butter + jelly, tuna salad or cheese and mayo for a perfect and quick snack.

7) Cucumber + Cheese: Cut cucumbers up into slices and top with cheddar cheese. Using the cucumber in place of expensive store bought crackers will save money and it’s a healthier and quick snack.

8) Nacho chips + Salsa: Most salsa’s are gluten free (check the ingredients) as are nacho chips. They make the perfect snack for when you want a little crunch and spice.

9) Ham Roll-ups: I like snacks that pack some protein so it helps keep me full. Using gluten free deli ham slices (or turkey) as the front for a roll-up is a great treat. You can make them ahead of time if you know you will be rushed for snack later. Recipe: Ham Roll-Ups

10) Trail Mix: I love to mix together almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds and peanuts for the perfect snack (if you’re not nut free). You don’t need a whole lot for that food and energy boost and it’s easy to grab a handful when you have no time.

Photo credit: adapted from hellogreenstar/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-snack-ideas/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-snack-ideas/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/8tkSzLHKxak/ http://accustomedchaos.com/watch-out-troubles/#comments Sat, 13 Oct 2012 14:00:17 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7340 I have been having some out of character “oh woe is me” moments lately. With the diagnosis last week of probable PCOS that’s causing my fertility issues, I took some time to take in the news and allow a moment of that “oh woe”. I am lucky that I have a reason, it helps me [...]

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I have been having some out of character “oh woe is me” moments lately. With the diagnosis last week of probable PCOS that’s causing my fertility issues, I took some time to take in the news and allow a moment of that “oh woe”. I am lucky that I have a reason, it helps me focus and gives me something to do about the situation, which helps me so much. In this case, my “bat” is the low-carb diet, the fertility pills and determination to get through this.

Links of Interest for the Week:

• 12 Interesting Facts About Baby Kicks While Pregnant - when to expect kicking & what to watch for
• 10 Gifts I Have Been Given Through Loss and Grief - what has grief given you?
• How to Have a Safe Gluten-Free Halloween – safe candy and tips for g-free kids
• 10 Ways to Honor Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day- October 15th, will you honor someone?
• 16 Reasons Why Cats Are Better Than People - reason #1: they make friends easier

More posts not to miss:

• 12 Things I Won’t Do, Even For My Kids - turns out I probably don’t love them enough…
• 10 Most Beautiful Cat Breeds - picking favorites
• 12 Different Ways to Cuddle, According to Cats - tips from expert cuddlers
• 9 After-Delivery Care Tips For Natural Birth – you will want those witch hazel pads!

Be sure to LIKE on Facebook and FOLLOW on twitter so you don’t miss any updates. Of course, you can always SUBSCRIBE and if you’re hip and cool — add me to your CIRCLE on Google

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/watch-out-troubles/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/watch-out-troubles/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/ENo5pyVGoAE/ http://accustomedchaos.com/mashed-cauliflower-with-bacon-parsley/#comments Fri, 12 Oct 2012 13:54:08 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7326 When I first thought about having to go on a super-low carbohydrate diet, my first thought was not wondering how I was going to give up bread or desserts, my fear was over potatoes. I am already used to being on limited food thanks to celiac disease, but potatoes was always a safe food for me. I [...]

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When I first thought about having to go on a super-low carbohydrate diet, my first thought was not wondering how I was going to give up bread or desserts, my fear was over potatoes. I am already used to being on limited food thanks to celiac disease, but potatoes was always a safe food for me. I enjoy eating them in a variety of ways, but mashed potatoes was always my favourite. I knew there had to be a substitute that would both have the same taste and similar texture, yet would not kill the carb count and friends, I found it in cauliflower. It tastes surprisingly similar and when you mash it up well, it has a very similar texture to potatoes. Raru, who hates mashed potatoes, loves to eat this recipe which is a huge added bonus!

4.0 from 1 reviews

Low-Carb Mashed Cauliflower with Bacon + Parsley

 

Author: Devan McGuinness – accustomedchaos.com

Nutrition Information

• Serving size: ½ cup

• Carbohydrates: 3 g

Recipe type: side dish

Cuisine: gluten free; dairy free; low-carb

Prep time:  10 mins

Cook time:  20 mins

Total time:  30 mins

Print

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower; chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegan margarine
• ¼ cup bacon bits
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• salt + pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook until tender but still firm, about 15-20 minutes; drain.
2. Using a potato masher or electric beater, slowly add margarine, bacon and parsley until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3.1.09

 

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/mashed-cauliflower-with-bacon-parsley/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/mashed-cauliflower-with-bacon-parsley/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/_oPlfLHn94E/ http://accustomedchaos.com/spaghetti-squash-pasta-with-roasted-vegetables/#comments Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:30:46 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7279 I have been on a low-carb diet now for only 7 days and I am seeing a BIG time difference already. I find myself feeling fuller longer and not having any crazy sugar cravings — which is amazing since I have nearly cut out sugar entirely. I have been looking for alternatives to pasta since [...]

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I have been on a low-carb diet now for only 7 days and I am seeing a BIG time difference already. I find myself feeling fuller longer and not having any crazy sugar cravings — which is amazing since I have nearly cut out sugar entirely. I have been looking for alternatives to pasta since that is a big meal around here and need something to be quick, easy and allergen friendly. This spaghetti squash ‘pasta’ with roasted vegetables fits the bill and is beyond delicious!

Spaghetti Squash ‘Pasta’ with Roasted Vegetables

 

Author: Devan McGuinness – accustomedchaos.com

Nutrition Information

• Serving size: 1 cup

• Carbohydrates: 13.5g
• Sugar: 5g   
• Fiber: 3.6g

Recipe type: Pasta Dinner

Cuisine: Low-Carb; Vegetarian; Gluten-Free; Dairy-Free

Prep time:  15 mins

Cook time:  45 mins

Total time:  1 hour

Print

Ingredients

• ½ Spaghetti squash
• 2 tbs olive oil
• ½ zucchini; cubed
• 5 cherry tomatoes; sliced
• ¼ sweet onion; chopped
• ¼ tsp garlic salt
• fresh pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat over to 350
2. Slice spaghetti squash in half length-eise; scrape out seeds and place cut side down on a baking sheet; pierce the skin with a fork
3. Place in preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes
4. When there’s 10 minutes left in the squash cooking, place chopped veggies and 1 tablespoon of olive oil and garlic salt on another baking sheet and place in oven to roast
5. Remove squash from oven and flip to reveal the inside. Scrape with a fork to pull from the skin. Move to a serving dish, add the roasted vegetables and remaining tablespoon of olive oil and pepper to taste.

3.1.08

Enjoy!

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/spaghetti-squash-pasta-with-roasted-vegetables/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/spaghetti-squash-pasta-with-roasted-vegetables/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/JZhBkk8ZT3A/ http://accustomedchaos.com/infertility-an-ugly-word-i-was-hoping-to-avoid-hearing/#comments Thu, 11 Oct 2012 01:01:29 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7254 Last week I went back to the doctor to get the results of the testing I had done the week before. I wasn’t surprised by the news because I had a feeling something wasn’t quite right, but I wasn’t thrilled by it either. If you’re aware of our pregnancy history, you will know the struggles [...]

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Last week I went back to the doctor to get the results of the testing I had done the week before. I wasn’t surprised by the news because I had a feeling something wasn’t quite right, but I wasn’t thrilled by it either.

If you’re aware of our pregnancy history, you will know the struggles my husband and I have when we are pregnant. Getting pregnant has never really been a concern but our struggle has always been with staying pregnant. After 12 losses it’s always at the forefront of our minds as we try to conceive another child.

Well, turns out we now will be adding the ‘getting pregnant’ to our difficulty path as I was diagnosed with “infertility”. All thanks to a metabolic/hormonal issue that will likely not prevent pregnancy from ever happening, but will sure make it more complicated than it should be.

I had been having a lot of pain on what I thought was my ovaries. With a history of ovarian cysts, I was sure that’s what was going on and was keeping my periods late. When I studied my basal body charts further I realized that not only was there no clear indication of ovulation, but my cycle varied so much from month to month, I knew something was up.

On top of all that, I have also been feeling very tired with super low energy and it was coming to the time where it could no longer be brushed off as just a routine change that sparked it all. I knew that something was going on and with my hopes of getting pregnant being the push for the doctor visit, I was glad I went.

“PCOS: a condition where many small cysts form on the ovary causing an hormonal imbalance which may lead to the need for fertility treatment to conceive” – Midland Fertility

Like I said, I wasn’t surprised by the results. Cysts on both ovaries that look like it could be a result of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and is the reason I am not ovulating, I have irregular cycles and we’re not pregnant yet. I don’t seem to have any of the other symptoms that are classically associated with PCOS and at the time my blood work results had not come back yet, but the ovaries were pretty classically polycystic.

So, my thoughts for a quick conception once I got the ‘go-ahead’ from my husband as been tossed out the window and a new plan has come to play. We are just passing our 8th month trying to conceive and the next month we are going ahead and will be on the fertility drug Clomid as well I have started a pretty strict new diet plan to help re-align my metabolism and hormones and so far it’s going well.

I am on a super-low carb diet consisting of 20-50g of carbohydrates daily (minus carb grams from fibre) and on day 6 of the diet I am doing surprisingly well. I have cut out nearly all sugar and tend to stay within the 20 daily grams.

So, in a few weeks I will be starting on Clomid in conjunction with this new low-carb (plus still gluten and dairy free) diet  and all that combined will help my body start to regulate and ovulate and a baby will soon be growing. Of course, this adds to so much more stress over what happens if we loose another baby, but right now I will focus on this hurdle and jump the next one when it comes along.

:: I would love to hear any stories you have with PCOS, Clomid or infertility — always helps to hear from those who have been through this rather than reading medical articles over and over ::

Photo credit: adapted from harinaivoteza/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/infertility-an-ugly-word-i-was-hoping-to-avoid-hearing/feed/ 2 http://accustomedchaos.com/infertility-an-ugly-word-i-was-hoping-to-avoid-hearing/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/vU7RO85dx-M/ http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-breakfast-ideas/#comments Fri, 05 Oct 2012 14:29:35 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7257 Getting out the door first thing in the morning is one of the most time-pressed parts of the day. Add in needing to get kids ready and finding time to eat a decent gluten-free breakfast and the whole thing can seem impossible. Gluten-free does not have to complicate things even further when it comes to [...]

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Getting out the door first thing in the morning is one of the most time-pressed parts of the day. Add in needing to get kids ready and finding time to eat a decent gluten-free breakfast and the whole thing can seem impossible.

Gluten-free does not have to complicate things even further when it comes to getting in that first meal of the day. There are some quick breakfast options available that can keep your energy up without making you late for that morning meeting in the office. Some meals you can make ahead of time and reheat and others take no more than 15 minutes to prepare and eat on the go.

 

1) Breakfast-in-a-muffin: make the night before and reheat for the morning, this “muffin” is made of gluten-free toast, an egg and a piece of bacon that you can eat in your hand. Recipe: Gluten-Free Breakfast On-the-Go

2) Fruit Smoothie: grab your blender and mix in orange juice, some greek yogurt, bananas and berries of your choice. For an extra boost, add your favourite gluten-free protein powder and put in your travel mug to go.

3) Breakfast Quinoa: make it on Sunday and enjoy it everyday for breakfast with just a quick reheat. A substitute for oatmeal, quinoa packs great energy for your day. Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa

4) Waffles: there are some store-brand gluten-free waffles you can purchase that takes just a quick heat in your toaster. Adding your own fruit as topping can up the nutrition and give a different change each day or you can make your own and freeze them! Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Waffles

5) Yogurt & Berries: Greek yogurt, berries and walnuts can provide the perfect combo of a quick sugar-wake-up and has protein in it to keep you going until lunch. You can prepare and eat in 15 minutes flat.

6) Eggs + Bacon: If you have 10 extra minutes in the morning, whip up some eggs and bacon. It’s naturally gluten free and has a perfect amount of protein that will give you that boost you need.

7) Fried Egg Sandwich: the sandwich of awesome! No need to make it the same boring way you’re used to. Kick it up with a cinnamon twist and take on the road with you. Recipe: Maple Cinnamon Fried Egg Sandwich

8) Banana and Peanut Butter: a good combination and naturally gluten free, this combo will have you on the go in no time, but still gives you that energy and protein that you need in the morning.

9) Gluten-Free Cereal: there are many gluten-free commercial cereals available now with various ingredients and benefits. For the morning where you don’t want a hot breakfast, this could be a good option.

10) Breakfast Quesadilla: grab your favorite corn tortillas, add refried beans, scrambled eggs, cheese and mushrooms and take on the go with you.

Photo credit: adapted from  Rob Qld/Flickr

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-breakfast-ideas/feed/ 1 http://accustomedchaos.com/10-quick-gluten-free-breakfast-ideas/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/LRGjByuDavE/ http://accustomedchaos.com/dr-seuss-art/#comments Wed, 03 Oct 2012 15:30:59 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7234 On Babble today: 2 Cats Try On Halloween Costumes, Proving Not All Cats Totally Hate It 12 Reasons Why Pregnancy Didn’t Let Me Sleep © Accustomed Chaos - Embracing The Chaos Of Motherhood in a Gluten Free Household™ | Twitter | Facebook | Email |

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On Babble today:
2 Cats Try On Halloween Costumes, Proving Not All Cats Totally Hate It
12 Reasons Why Pregnancy Didn’t Let Me Sleep

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]]> http://accustomedchaos.com/dr-seuss-art/feed/ 0 http://accustomedchaos.com/dr-seuss-art/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/AccustomedChaos/~3/gV48GudQmHg/ http://accustomedchaos.com/fertility-testing-started/#comments Tue, 02 Oct 2012 17:24:15 +0000 Devan McGuinness http://accustomedchaos.com/?p=7218 Okay, well I may be a bit dramatic right now, the truth is I won’t know what’s going on until tomorrow, at least…. but you can tell what I am under a wee bit of stress here. I have been trying to make baby #4 for 8 months now and have been using the same [...]

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Okay, well I may be a bit dramatic right now, the truth is I won’t know what’s going on until tomorrow, at least…. but you can tell what I am under a wee bit of stress here.

I have been trying to make baby #4 for 8 months now and have been using the same basal body method’s I’ve used in the past. I have been charting since removing my birth control over a year ago and one thing became glaringly apparent to me.

I don’t seem to be ovulation, which if you know anything about the whole baby-making process, it’s kind of important. Looking at my charts, I have ovulated a few times, gotten pregnant once, miscarried and have yet to see any sort of regular cycle. In the past, I’ve not had any issues getting pregnant, but staying pregnant was our struggle. I know that in the long scheme of things 8-months is not a long time and typically not anything to worry about, yet — but with my history, I didn’t want to wait and wait to lose and start again.

So, off to the doctor we went.

I saw our family doctor 2 weeks ago and she ordered some blood tests (and by some, I mean a surprising amount of blood was taken from my arm) and an ultrasound to check for cysts and to generally see if my inner lady-bits were in order.  I had all that stuff done last week and tomorrow, I head to my OB/GYN to find out the results, if there was anything that showed up as an indication on why it doesn’t seem I am ovulating and to come up with some sort of plan.

I wasn’t anticipating this — at all. I knew we would struggle with the fears and anxieties of more loss, but never thought we would have trouble getting pregnant. I worry that it’s my age that is slowing things down. I am only 30-years old, but it has been almost 4 years since I’ve had a baby and as I know, fertility starts to really drop at 30-years old.

I am not going to lie, I am kind of nervous. I am nervous the tests showed something, I am nervous they didn’t show anything, I am nervous about how long this will take, and I am nervous about being unsure about how far I want to take this.

I feel kind of like a fish out of water here … and old!

:: Did you have troubles with ovulation or needing fertility treatment? I would love to hear your stories! ::

Photo credit: adapted from Otto Phokus/Flickr

 

 On Babble today:
10 Ways to Help Your Child With Nightmares
12 Different Ways to Cuddle, According to Cats
Readers Share Their Biggest Fears When it Came to Labor and Childbirth

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