The Nourishing Homemaker

Soooo Easy Gluten Free Pizza

2012-08-05T20:51:00.000-04:00

Confession: The title is a little misleading. It's not exactly pizza but it is delicious and looks like pizza. You won't care if it technically is not a pizza. Dare I say, it possibly tastes better than a pizza. Do I have your attention yet? Are sitting on the edge of your seat? Okay, I'll just tell you what makes this gluten free pizza so special. The crust is meat. No flours to mix or dough to let rise. No gums or messy starches or ingredient lists that go on for pages. The recipe is so simple and takes no time at all to make. Basically take a meat, egg, and spice mixture and bake it. Add toppings and pop it back in the oven to broil for a few minutes. Voila! It's a Meatza! It takes me less than 30 minutes to make start to finish.

I was introduced to Meatza (click link to see recipe) by Nia Shanks, a writer and personal trainer. Nia is a fitness "guru" who has written books on training and nutrition including Fat Loss Detour. She is also a co-founder of Girls Gone Strong – The Women’s Fitness Authority. I highly recommend that you go to her site and take a look around. I love her no-nonsense training and nutrition philosophy.

But I digress, back to Meatza. There are so many possibilities! You can treat it just like a homemade pizza: Pineapple and Ham or Bacon, Fresh Spinach, and Roma Tomatoes or BBQ Chicken with Cheddar Cheese or Good Ol' Pepperoni (Hormel's is gluten free).

If you are like me and you have an egg allergy, Ener-G Foods Egg Replacer is a great substitute.

This is Nia's Meatza. Yummmmmmm!

Oh, and for all you people on the GAPS Diet....hello, pizza! Note: Mozzarella is on The Naughty List, but plenty of other cheeses are on The Recommended List like Monterrey Jack, Cheddar, and Gouda. You could even get super fancy and make a Meatza with Brie and Caramelized Onions!

For another easy gluten free "pizza," check out Coconut Egg Crust Pizza.

My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Giveaway!

2012-02-03T20:06:00.002-05:00

This contest has ended. Thanks to those who participated! I maybe hosting another My Memories Suite giveaway in the future so check back.

I'm excited today to share with you a great product that is the answer to my "what do I do with all those pictures on my hard drive?" question. It's called My Memories Suite and is the #1 rated scrapbooking software by Amazon and TopTen Reviews.

My Memories gave me two copies of their software, one for me to review and one for a lucky reader. Enter the My Memories Suite Giveaway and win the software along with a $10 credit to be used at the My Memories store.

Not a scrapbook enthusiast? My Memories digital software is not just for scrapbooking. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination: DVD slideshows, calendars, greeting cards, posters, and fun printables are just some of the ways to get your craft on with My Memories scrapbook software. Here is a video that shows you some of the great projects you can make with My Memories Suite.

*Note: This video is to demonstrate the diversity of My Memories Suite.

The product shown is not the latest version.

Before I had the twins (children #4 and #5) I was an avid scrapbooker. I had family books and a series of books for each child. I poured hundreds of dollars into stamps, papers, and doo-dads that are now bursting out of the drawers I've stuffed them in. What a mess! After the twins were born and two years later I have only scrapped a few pages and those were for the twins' baby books. Needless to say, I don't have time to scrapbook any more and I don't have the room at my house for all the scrapbooking supplies.

This is a designer template. All I had to do was put the pictures
in the photo boxes and write a little in the journal box. You can choose
to do these pre-made pages or start from scratch and design it all yourself.

I had dabbled with photo books but the pages turned out bland and sterile. As I worked on my first photo book I kept thinking, 'I wish there was a fast and simple way to get cute, personalized pages like traditional scrapbooking'. I thought "digital" meant that you could not have physical books of the albums you created. After reading about My Memories Suite, I found out that not only can I have a book in hand to flip through and show off, but I can also have a digital copy in case something happened to the book. I can also send a digital copy complete with music and narration to my family. My parents and in-laws will love having a copies of our albums to look through whenever they want (which is every day 'cause my kids are so darn precious).

Here's an example of a fun printable you can create with My Memories Suite:

I am not a technologically savvy person. If fact, I call myself "technologically challenged". Ask anyone who has tried to help me with something computer related and they will confirm this. My point is, the software is simple and user friendly. If I can do it, anyone can!

My Memories has been kind enough to offer a great deal to all my readers:

Simply enter STMMMS13535 at checkout to receive $10 off the purchase of the MyMemories Suite scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the My Memories store. That's a $20 value!

GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Code: STMMMS13535

Lose The Weight In 2012

2012-01-02T06:30:00.004-05:00

This post has been a long time coming. I do not throw fitness advice around flippantly, and so after a year come January 6, 2012, I am ready to share with you a weight loss/fitness system that is healthy and actually works! You don't have to clear your calendar to spend every spare moment in the gym, you don't have to empty your wallet to look and feel your best.

I have no hidden agenda. I am not making any money by posting this and sharing it with you. I simply want you to know there is an easier, better way to a healthy, beautiful body. I don't want you to spend 2012 spinning your wheels at the gym and trying diet after diet going up and down the scale over and over or flat out seeing no results at all.

This is your year to get healthy and see jaw dropping results.

"J" before

"J" ..... 2 weeks later!

Before you read further you are going to have to open your mind and disregard all the information you have read in magazines and all the nutrition advice you have been given by the government, friends, trainers, and "experts."

For the last year I have been doing a diet and exercise program developed by Martin Berkhan, a nutrition consultant, personal trainer, and writer. His website is called Leangains and it cost nothing to learn everything you need to know. I will briefly describe what Martin suggests, but you are going to have to go to his site to get the details. The best place to start is The Leangains Guide and then read all posts in the section titled "Most Popular." There's a wealth of information in the comments and replies. Don't skip over them.

In short, Leangains' biggest keys are intermittent fasting and low volume/heavy weight training. Yes, fasting. I don't eat for roughly 16 hours of my day and then I have an 8 hour window to eat. This doesn't mean I starve myself; my calorie intake is between 1230 to 1850 calories a day. Martin sites numerous studies on intermittent fasting and the effects it has not only on fat loss, but muscle gain as well. This flies in the face of "breakfast is the most important meal of the day." I know, and that's why I said to leave your preconceived notions at the door. Take a deep breath cause it gets worse, or better depending on how tied you are to your treadmill.

Most people who follow Leangains are in and out of the gym in under an hour and only go 3 times a week. You can get off the eliptical and go for a light walk around your neighborhood or park. Put down those wee, little pink and purple dumbbells because weight training, really heavy/low volume weight training, is one of the keys to unlocking the beautiful body you never knew you could have. Again, Martin has done a ton of research and you can read about it on his site.

Don't worry. Proof you won't get bulky lifting heavy weights. Here's a couple of examples of women who lift heavy and are nowhere near bulky:

That's it in a nutshell and I'm sure you now have a million questions. My question to you is do you have the guts to do what most "experts" will tell you is the exact opposite of what you're supposed to do?

I have no official "before" picture. This is the
best example I have of what I looked like,
thin to average but no muscle.

And now my results so far with Lean Gains:

-My body fat percentage was in the low to mid 20's when I started and I am now about 14-15%. I know I started out at a perfectly healthy body fat percentage, but the stubborn fat, like the saddle bags on my thighs, made me self conscious. I wanted to wear a bathing suit and feel confident and comfortable.

-I've lost 9 pounds. My weight wasn't so much an issue, but I did lose weight.

-4 pregnancies had left my body squishy and saggy in places. All that beautiful muscle has helped lift and shape those areas.

-I have gained tremendous strength and I am lifting weights that I never in a million years thought I could.

I happen to be one of those women who can put on a good bit of muscle mass.
Don't worry. Most of the ladies I know who eat and train
like me (and can lift more weight than I can) aren't as muscular.

-I have stopped swirling around on the waves of the fitness industry's advice. You know what I mean. Coffee is good. No wait, coffee is bad. Er... coffe is good again. Eat lots of fat. Eat low fat. Eggs are terrible for you. Eggs are so nutritious. Atkins, South Beach, Weight Watchers, Pritikin.... If you are like I was, you are completely confused, extremely frustrated and seeing no results.

-My self esteem has improved and I love my body now. It's no longer the enemy.

You are quite likely overwhelmed like I was when I stumbled upon all of this. Please feel free to email me with questions. Read and reread Martin's website and give it a try. If you get nothing else from what I've written here, just try it. What do you have to lose except those saddle bags, tummy pooch, and love handles?

Need a book to get you started?
Read:
Eat Stop Eat by Brad Pilon.

Some other great resources to get you started:
Fitness Safari
Leigh Peele
Mark's Daily Apple
Fierce Fit Fearless
Nia Shanks
Strong Lifts

Leangains FAQ's gives you the lowdown on ends-and-outs. This page was endorsed by Martin Berkhan on Twitter so I know it's a good place to get more information!

Join "Fierce.Fit.Fearless" on Facebook (for ladies only).
Lots of helpful women and some great examples of the
results you can expect. Email Jenn at
fiercefitfearless@groups.facebook.com to request to join.

More Before-and-Afters:
Scroll down to "Jennifer F" and "Jill J"
A few good pics of women's results
More ladies and their transformations
......and more
Knock Your Socks Off Results!

Gluten Free NuGo Bars!

2011-11-10T16:58:00.001-05:00

NuGo Bars (That's Nutrition to Go) have made the short list of pre-packaged foods that both my son with food allergies and I can eat.

When we go to the store and I want to get him a treat (read "bribe him to be good"), I head to the sports nutrition section and pick up our "go to" bar because I know the ingredients are safe for him. I was delighted when NuGo sent me samples of bars from their "Free" line because these yummy bars contain no hydrogenated oils, trans fats, or waxy vegetable fat compounds and are soy, gluten, and dairy free!

NuGo Bars look delicious as well and we all know how important presentation is to our kiddos and grown ups too! They remind me a little of rice crisp type treats with drizzles of chocolate or vanilla icing squiggles.

The Free line offers three flavors to choose from: Dark Chocolate Crunch, Dark Chocolate Trail Mix, and Carrot Cake. I loved all three and before I tried them I thought Dark Chocolate Crunch would be my favorite. Dark Chocolate Trail Mix won in the test taste for me. I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the wrapping; I imagined one of those bars that are all nuts stuck together with a glue-like sweetener. BUT the trail mix bar is a delicious blend of rice crisps, nuts and dried fruit. My mouth is watering as I type.

NuGo has several different lines of bars to choose from and even candy bars (yum!) The folks at NuGo have made an easy-to-read chart to help you choose which varieties suit your needs.

NuGo bars are sold at stores nationwide and in Canada. http://www.nugonutrition.com/about/store-locator/

Sample packs can be ordered on their website for $6-$7 plus free shipping in the US. http://store.nugonutrition.com/category/sample.html

For more information about NuGo's gluten-free bars, click here. http://store.nugonutrition.com/category/gluten-free-nutrition-bars.html

Follow NuGo at your favorite social media:
Blog: http://www.nugonutrition.com/category/gluten-free/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/NuGoGlutenFree
Twitter: http://twitter.com/nugonutrition

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***All products that I review are products that I would use or serve my family. I have been sent products in the past that I did not like and could not endorse. You won't see them on my blog.

Crown Maple Syrup Review

2011-07-05T20:56:00.001-04:00

I always thought maple syrup was pretty much the same. Boy, was I wrong! Crown Maple Syrup sent me a bottle of their syrup to sample and then share my experience with you. I got an education in maple syrup and I have fallen in love with a new product!

Crown Maple Syrup was born when Robb and Lydia Turner bought land in Dutchess County, N.Y intending it to be used as a family retreat. They discovered they had a forest full of pristine sugar and red maple trees and began producing pure, high quality maple syrup.

Crown Maple Syrup is an organic syrup, family produced using sustainable harvesting practices. I love that it is a small, family run company and, of course, I love that the syrup is organic.

The process used to make Crown Maple Syrup is different and superior to the methods used by other maple syrup producers. The sap is protected from prolonged exposure to heat, which can cause burning and carmelization, with a unique reverse osmosis machine (the only in the country) and a series of filters. Honestly, I have no idea what reverse osmosis is, but what I do know is that Crown Maple Syrup is the best maple syrup I have ever tasted.

I was given a sample of the Light Amber Syrup and I decided it would be fun to do a blind taste test with my family. They each tried the brand I normally purchase and then the Crown Maple Syrup not knowing which was which. Everyone agreed unanimously that Crown Maple Syrup was best. I've had a lot of request for pancakes and waffles since.

After visiting the online store, I was surprised to see how affordable Crown Maple Syrup's prices are and excited that I can buy such a wonderful product at a comparable price to the brand I was using.

For more information about Crown Maple Syrup and to purchase a bottle to see the delicious difference for yourself, please visit http://www.crownmaple.com/.

Zevia Review and Carob Fudge!

2011-05-30T20:49:00.002-04:00

I am taking a break from my blogging sabbatical (yes, a break from my break) to review a product and tell you about our new favorite dessert/snack from Whole New Mom!

I have a confession. I am a former Diet Coke-oholic. In college 6 Diet Cokes a day was not uncommon for me and many days it was more. Yes, that's a lot of Diet Coke! I firmly believe that artificial sweeteners are not good for our bodies and after a lot of starts and stops, I finally kicked the habit. Unfortunately, every once in a while I really want that sweet, bubbly beverage. Here's another confession: sometimes I have one. My moments of weakness usually happen in line at the store. That's why they put the goodies there anyway, to tempt us, right?

When I saw Zevia hit the market I was excited to see a soda that was made with stevia and curious as to how it would taste compared to my beloved Diet Coke, (which I don't even really think tastes all that good any more). Zevia is sweetened with stevia and erithrytol. From what I understand, erithrytol is a sugar alcohol created from a fermentation process, but also occurs naturally in certain foods. My thoughts are that if I want a soda, it's a healthier choice than aspartame, but I don't really know enough about erithrytol to give an educated opinion. Read up on it and make your own decision.

Zevia states that their ingredients are all natural. If you are concerned about any of the ingredients, you can read more about them here and here. If you still have questions you can contact Zevia at zevia.com. I have found that most companies are happy to discuss their products with you.

Now, how does Zevia taste? While the flavors have their own spin on versions from other big name brand colas, as well as a few originals, I think they taste great! Dr. Zevia, Ginger Root Beer, Orange, and Black Cherry are just a few of Zevia's flavors. I've tried many of them and have liked them all, but I especially love Cola. It taste like Diet Coke without that artificial aftertaste.

Zevia would be perfect to pack in the cooler for the beach or lake. Or as a cool treat during these hot summer days-- put them in the freezer just long enough to make them a slushy treat. Yum! (Warning: don't leave them too long or you will have a big mess to clean up.)

Carob Pods
photo credit

And as a bonus, I wanted to share a new recipe that my family absolutely loves! Silky Smooth Bean Fudge from Whole New Mom is awesome! I've been making it with carob because of Griffin's chocolate allergy, and we really can't taste the difference. It is super easy to make (no bake), and it's so healthy! If you have picky eaters you may not want to make it in front of them. It has a "hidden" ingredient that might make them turn up their noses before they've tasted it. We've tried it from the fridge and the freezer and love it both ways!

Hope everyone's summer is off to a wonderful start!

Blogger Burn-Out

2011-05-18T20:39:00.000-04:00

If you follow my blog, you may have noticed that I am not posting as much. I am experiencing blogger burn-out and I am going to take some time off to regroup.

I have received some criticism and unkind comments (I am glad I moderate all my comments). I started my blog for fun and comments like this are not fun. I am not an expert. I am not a nutritionist, a doctor, or any other health professional. I'm a mom. I blog about my experiences. I am truly disappointed that some women would feel the need to judge me and to try to do so openly on my blog.

Since my journey into healthy foods I have realized that all my time has been spent in the kitchen. I am either making a meal or snack or I am cleaning up and doing dishes. My kids are growing up so fast! I don't want to live in the kitchen. I want to spend time with them and enjoy them before they are ready to be off on their own. Yes, this means I am compromising on some of the food choices I make for my family. Yes, this means that I am going to make some meals from boxes. I am thinking about the big picture though and what is overall best for my family.

Sorry to disappoint some of my readers by taking a step back (not a complete reversal) from traditional, real foods. We all have choices to make and the choices I make are made through lots of reflection and serious thought.

Menu Monday 5-9-11

2011-05-09T23:37:00.000-04:00

Since we've moved time has gone by in a whirlwind of packing and unpacking and settling in. I'm not sure where April went and I can't believe we are into the second week of May! Soon the kids will be out of school for the summer. It will be nice to not start my day with the buzzing of an alarm clock and it will be really nice to have lots of quality time with the kids.

photo credit

In other news, my husband and I have decided to start a new tradition. Either Friday or Saturday nights we are going to let our three oldest stay up a little later than normal for "Movie Night." Snuggle time on the couch, a bowl full of popcorn, and a great family movie sounds like a wonderful way to spend an evening. I am excited to look through the family section of the Netflix library to make a list of what we might like to watch.

Monday
Breakfast: Honey Muffins
Lunch: Turkey Sandwiches, Mary's Sticks and Twigs , Applesauce
Dinner: My parents' treat. :)

Tuesday
Breakfast: Breakfast Cookies
Lunch: Egg Sandwiches, Pears
Dinner: Gluten Free Chicken Strips, Home Fries, Squash Casserole

Wednesday
Breakfast: Peanut Butter/Carob Granola-Gluten Free [1]
Lunch: Pb&j's, grapes
Dinner: Bacon & Eggs

Thursday
Breakfast: Silky Smooth Bean Fudge
Lunch: Peanut Butter Apple Sandwiches, Homemade Coconut Milk Yogurt
Dinner: Steak & Potatoes [2]

Friday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Toast
Lunch: Kids at my parents (My husband has the day off and we are going on a date! We have a movie and a restaurant gift card. Woohoo!)
Dinner: Pizza

Saturday
Breakfast: Grain Free Pancakes
Lunch: Leftover Pizza, Strawberries
Dinner: Leftovers

Sunday
Breakfast: Bacon & Eggs
Lunch: Ham at my parents for my brother's birthday!
Dinner: Ham Sandwiches, mac-n-cheese, salad (leftover from party)

Footnotes:
[1] I'll post this recipe later. Come back to see!
[2] A kind neighbor came by to welcome us to the neighborhood and came bearing steak and potatoes. Steak is a luxury we can't afford and we were when we saw what was in her gift bag! Got any tips on cooking a really juicy, tender steak? I'd love to hear them!

To All Those That Say Older Generations Have Ruined Our Planet....

2011-05-08T17:18:00.002-04:00

I hope it is ok to post this. It was sent to me in an email and is not my words. I don't usually pay much attention to forwarded emails, but when I read this I said, "Amen!"

If you believe in going green, don't blame our elders for the state of the world. Take responsibility for your part with our bottled water (made of biodegradable materials), our iPhones soon to be tossed for the latest and hottest and our late nights at work burning the midnight oil (i.e. wasting electricity). We would be in a lot better shape if we slowed down in all that we do, whether it be how we prepare our food or taking more time to enjoy the moment. We should unplug more, roll up our sleeves, and live life more like our grandparents and great-grandparents did.

photo credit

In the line at the store, the cashier told the older woman that she should bring her own grocery bag because plastic bags weren't good for the environment.

The woman apologized to him and explained, "We didn't have the green thing back in my day."

The clerk responded, "That's our problem today.

The former generation did not care enough to save our environment."

(FYI, the cashier was probably a teenager or early twenty-something).

Back then, they returned their milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the store.

The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, so it could use the same bottles over and over.

So they really were recycled.

But they didn't have the green thing back in that customer's day.

In her day, they walked up stairs, because they didn't have an escalator in every store and office building.

They walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time they had to go two blocks.

But she was right. They didn't have the green thing in her day.

Back then, they washed the baby's diapers because they didn't have the throw-away kind.

They dried clothes on a line, not in an energy gobbling machine burning up 220 volts - wind and solar power really did dry the clothes.

Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing.

But that old lady is right, they didn't have the green thing back in her day.

Back then, they had one TV, or radio, in the house - not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief, not a screen the size of the state of Montana .

In the kitchen, they blended and stirred by hand because they didn't have electric machines to do everything for you.

When they packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, they used a wadded up old newspaper to cushion it, not styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

Back then, they didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. They used a push mower that ran on human power.

They exercised by working so they didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

But she's right, they didn't have the green thing back then.

They drank from a fountain when they were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time they had a drink of water.

They refilled their writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and they replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.

But they didn't have the green thing back then.

Back then, people took the streetcar or a bus and kids rode their bikes to school or rode the school bus instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service.

They had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances.

And they didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint.

Note from Renee: This didn't mention all the packaging from fast food purchases or the replacement of computers, cell phones, etc. every time they are updated.

But isn't it sad the current generation laments how wasteful the old folks were just because they didn't have the green thing back then?

Menu Monday 5-2-11....

2011-05-03T13:40:00.001-04:00

...... a little late.

Last week I posted a picture of a front porch. It wasn't my front porch, but it looked like a great place to sit, sip my coffee and watch the world go by.

I've never had a "real front porch" before. We've lived in houses that had a little slab of concrete, but not a bona fide front porch. It's one of the things I love about our new home.

After several weeks without a camera (ours broke), we finally have one in working order! Yeah!

So without further ado.....

Our bona fide, real front porch

Monday
Breakfast: Breakfast Cookies
Lunch: Nature's Rancher Hot Dogs, apple slices
Dinner: Chicken Burritos, salad

Tuesday
Breakfast: Coconut Flour Waffles
Lunch: Peanut Butter Apples, Mary's Sticks and Twigs (Gluten, Dairy, & Corn Free!)
Dinner: BLT's, carrot sticks

Wednesday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Toast
Lunch: Pb&j's, grapes
Dinner: Bacon & Eggs

Thursday
Breakfast: Crispy Rice Treats
Lunch: Mac-n-"cheese", peas
Dinner: Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad

Friday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Rolls
Lunch: Kids at my parents
Dinner: Pizza

Saturday
Breakfast: 3 Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Lunch: Leftover Pizza, Strawberries
Dinner: Black Bean Burgers, home fries, apple slices

Sunday
Breakfast: Bacon & Eggs
Lunch: Pb&j's, carrot sticks
Dinner: Leftovers

Chinese Chicken Salad

2011-05-02T21:09:00.001-04:00

photo credit*

In college I frequented a restaurant that served the best Chinese Chicken Salad. I loved the sweet/salty dressing, the cool, crisp lettuce and the crunchy chow mein noodles on top. Mmmmmm..... When Foodista sent me an email for fast and easy recipes, I saw "Classic Chinese Chicken Salad." I knew I had to put it on my menu!

I thought gluten free "chow mein" noodles would be a challenge, but after a quick search, I had a simple recipe that was a snap thanks to Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom.

1 lb chicken, cubed
coconut oil, as needed
salt and pepper to taste

4 Tbsp rice wine vinegar
2 Tbsp orange juice
2 Tbsp Tamari
2 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp sesame oil

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

3 green onions
1 can mandarin oranges
1 cup gluten free Chow Mein Noodles

Saute chicken in coconut oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, Tamari, orange juice, sesame oil and honey.

In a large salad bowl toss onions, lettuce, oranges, cilantro and dressing. Top with chow mein noodles and serve. Yum!

*My camera is broken. This is not my photo, but it is close to what my salad looked like.

Shared at:
Slightly Indulgent Tuesday

For All of You Food Allergy Sufferers....

2011-04-27T21:35:00.001-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I stumbled upon an awesome site called Navan Foods!

The breakout on his face happened immediately after eating chocolate.
Poor little guy!

While he doesn't go into anaphylactic shock, his allergy reactions
include stomach upset, itchy rash (sometimes hives, sometimes
eczema flare), and fatigue. We've had a couple of really rough nights after he got a hold of something he can't eat.

A little background before I tell you about the site: My youngest son has several food allergies that include gluten, dairy, corn, and chocolate. Gluten and dairy fall into "The Big 8" category. Most companies list these ingredients on their packaging and chocolate is a no-brainer.

Corn, on the other hand, is problematic. Many chemicals and ingredients may or may not be derived from corn. Companies don't have to list corn as an ingredient. Every time I see "xanthan gum" or "dextrose" or "maltodextrin" (the list goes on and on) I have to call the company and ask if it is made from corn. In the past I have simply avoided any sort of prepackaged food. I am okay with that most of the time, but sometimes I need a break from cooking and baking. Sometimes I want to pick up a package of cookies or crackers or hamburger buns instead of making them from scratch.

So, when I came upon this website I was so excited! Navan Foods is a natural food store in Virginia that specializes in allergy free foods. In the store each product has an information card that tells you what it does NOT contain. I don't live in Virginia, so what's all the fuss? Navan Foods has an online store and a search function for allergies and special diets. You can click little boxes for all your food allergies and it will display a long list of products that are okay for you. Navan Foods has done all the homework. They have called the companies and done the research. How great is that!

When I clicked all of my son's allergies it even produced boxed mac-n-"cheese!" I would not serve this on a regular basis, but how nice is it to have that back up box when life gets crazy and I need to feed the kids in a jiffy!

Along with pastas, breads, and cereals, the product search results showed candy without corn! Again, not a staple in my kids' diet, but candy without corn is a major score. Almost all prepackaged candy contains corn (or chocolate or dairy). Hello, lollipops!

Navan Foods offers reasonable shipping options too. They have flat shipping rates depending on the total cost of your order. Over $100 is free!

I hope if you or a loved one have food allergies that you will visit Navan Foods. The product search button is a black rectangle that says "Search By Dietary Requirement" and is located on the right hand side bar. I'd also encourage you to place your order through Navan Foods if you use their search feature. They have done so much work to provide you with some great information.

*** I did not receive any compensation for this post.

Another Feed Me Tweet Me Follow Me Home Friday at a Moderate Life!

Menu Monday 4-25-11

2011-04-25T21:07:00.000-04:00

We've moved into a bigger house which means we can spread out, but it also means I have a whole lot more house to take care of and my toddlers are off in many different directions. In a tiny house I pretty much knew where all 5 of the kids were and what they were up to. In this house I am up and down stairs constantly checking. It means I have less time in the kitchen, so, I am trying to simplify my menus. I can't spend lots of time baking, and cooking, and cleaning dishes (I'm not complaining about the last one). Soon those toddlers will be preschoolers and I'll have more time to create and prepare more elaborate meals, but for now simple is the best choice.

Photo Credit
Disclaimer: This is not our house. My camera is broken.

I am really enjoying evenings on the porch swinging with the little ones. This is the first time we've had a true front porch! After the twins are snug in their beds, I've spent some time cuddling on the couch with the bigger kids. We've been watching Bugs Bunny a lot. Looney Tunes, after all these years, is still entertaining us young and old! I love it!

Monday
Breakfast: Honey Muffins
Lunch: Leftover Easter Ham Sandwiches, Veggie Sticks (Gluten, Dairy, & Corn Free!)
Dinner: Eating with my parents

Tuesday
Breakfast: Cinnamon Toast
Lunch: Peanut Butter Apples, Mary's Sticks and Twigs (Gluten, Dairy, & Corn Free!)
Dinner: Tacos with Ground Turkey [1], Salad

Wednesday
Breakfast: Coconut Flour Waffles
Lunch: "Buttered" Noodles [2], Peas
Dinner: Bacon & Eggs

Thursday
Breakfast: Breakfast Cookies
Lunch: Hot Dogs, Carrots
Dinner: Leftover Tacos, Salad

Friday
Breakfast: Granola
Lunch: Kids at my parents :)
Dinner: Pizza

Saturday
Breakfast: 3 Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Lunch: Leftover Pizza, Strawberries
Dinner: Chinese Chicken Salad [3]

Sunday
Breakfast: Bacon & Eggs
Lunch: Pb&j's, Applesauce
Dinner: Leftover Chicken Salad

Footnotes:
[1] I am going to fool around and see if I can come up with a homemade gluten free/corn free taco shell for Griffin.
[2] "Buttered" Noodles are gluten free, corn free noodles tossed in coconut oil and sprinkled with nutritional yeast and salt. I cook my noodles in homemade chicken stock to add nutritional value.
[3] I hope to post this recipe later this week.

My menus have footnotes. :D

Raw Tortilla Chips - April In The Raw

2011-04-23T00:25:00.002-04:00

April In The Raw is a month long event organized by Brittany at Real Sustenance. Each day in the month of April a different blogger is sharing a raw recipe. I am excited to be a part of it! There have been many great recipes so far and we have another week left. Can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

Brittany has posted a link party as well so you can share your wonderful raw recipes too!

My original idea was potato chips and dip. I was pumped about this great new recipe and I went out and bought a mandoline so I could make paper thin, crispy chips. It was going to be great! The problem is that I am extremely clumsy, not just out-and-about, but in the kitchen too. I keep Band Aids in a drawer right next to the sink because I frequently need them for my many cuts and burns.

I am telling you this because I had my best kitchen injury to date with my new mandoline. I sliced off the tip of my finger and then just for good measure, I gave the mandoline another go and cut two more fingers. Needless to say, the mandoline has been put away and my potato chips recipe was laid to rest.

I am happy to report that the recipe that I am sharing today came with no cuts, scrapes, or bruises. Well, maybe I bumped my head on the corner of a cabinet.

3 cups corn

1 1/2 cups flax seed meal

1 cup water
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp taco seasoning***

In a food processor, process all ingredients until smooth. Pour onto Teflex sheets and place in dehydrator. Set dehydrator to 115 degrees and after 1 to 2 hours peel chip dough away from the sheets. Cut into triangles or squares and place back in dehydrator and wait until they get nice and crisp.

Many of the recipes I looked at for raw tortilla chips said it took only a few hours to 24 hours. Um, mine took 4 days. Yes, you are reading correct. It took my chips 4 days to go from chewy to crispy. Talk about slow food!

My husband played taste tester for me and gave them a thumbs up. I liked them as well, but I would much rather stick them in my oven and have them done in less than an hour.

*** I like Amy's Taco Seasoning Recipe at Simply Sugar and Gluten Free

A bonus raw recipe that was developed as I have been scurrying around to come up with an Easter basket for a child who is allergic to gluten, dairy, chocolate, and corn:

Raw Easter Egg Cake Balls

Dough:

2 cups pitted dates

1 cup coconut flour

3/4 cup honey

Frosting:

1 cup coconut oil

l/4 cup honey

1/3 cup puree

Process dates and add honey and coconut flour. Continue to process until a dough forms. Roll 2 Tbsp at a time into balls.

For the frosting process ingredients together. I used strawberry puree to make pink, but beet juice would work really well. I used spinach puree for the green and pineapple for the yellow. Carrot juice makes an excellent yellow. I thought it would be orange, but if you add it in slowly, you can achieve a vibrant yellow! Dip the balls in the frosting and coat. Place on wax paper on a cookie sheet and refrigerate. The frosting will harden somewhat so you can pick it up without making a mess.

My camera has died on me and so I don't have a picture, but they turned out really cute. My toddlers loved them. This recipe makes about 18 balls unless you have little ones coming into the kitchen asking for dough.

Do You Hear Crickets When You Visit My Blog?

2011-04-21T16:18:00.000-04:00

Oh, dear friends, my internet service at my new house is not so great. We have Clear and it worked brilliantly at our old house. At the new house our reception is horrible! I have not been able to get on the internet for days at a time! I miss my blog and all of you!

Don't fret though! We are looking for a new internet provider and hopefully I'll be back on track soon!

In the meantime, look for my April In The Raw post on Saturday. It will be a special Easter raw treat that you don't want to miss! There have been many delicious raw recipes posted by lots of talented, dedicated bloggers. Please visit their sites and join in on the month long event by entering your own raw recipe over at Real Sustenance!

See you on Saturday! I am going to post this recipe no matter what! Even Clear can't stop me! (because I have parents who live close and they don't mind me popping over to borrow their computer).

Winner and A Coupon!

2011-04-18T22:32:00.000-04:00

WINNER!!!!! Congratulations to Michelle! You have won a copy of The Everything Beans Book by Katie Kimball! Yeah!

Thanks to everyone else who participated! If you would like a copy of "The Everything Beans Book", Katie is offering an exclusive discount to my readers for 20% off! Enter: NURFAM20 at checkout. Click here to buy your copy today and receive a big discount! Offer ends April 23rd so hurry!

I'm so excited to host a giveaway for Kitchen Stewardship's The Everything Beans Book by Katie Kimball.

Money for us is tight right now. I have really cut back on the amount of meat I prepare, opting for the affordable, edible egg and beans. My kids love eggs. They could have them breakfast, lunch and dinner. Beans, on the other hand, have been more of a challenge.

Enter Katie's The Everything Beans Book. I bought it 1) to learn more about how to properly prepare beans and 2) in the hopes that there were some recipes in there my kids would actually eat. I was not disappointed on either fronts!

Not only did I learn more about beans, I now have some bean recipes that my kids love! Yeah! So far I have made Spaghetti and Pinto Bean Chili, Cheesy White Chicken Chili, Veggie Bean Burritos made with Katie's Dosas, and the Chicken Rice-a-Roni Substitute. All have been well received by my family. I love when real food, frugality, and happy, full bellies all come together!

My four year old's favorite so far has been the Chicken Rice-a-Roni Substitute. I used Great Northern Beans because it is what I had on hand. The color was a little dull. Kidney beans or pintos would have made a more appealing presentation.

My son and I talked about different ways we could make it really colorful. We decided next time I make it he would help. He wants to add red pepper, green onions, and carrots. Do I have a little chef in the making?

Although it is listed in the "Sides" category, I made Chicken Rice-a-Roni Substitute our main dish. I may try adding some shredded chicken next time too. If you go by the original recipe, it is a super fast meal, especially if you already have the veggies cut up and sitting in your freezer ready to pull out.

1-2 Tbs. butter or olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1-2 stalks chopped celery

1-2 cloves garlic, minced

1 c. brown rice

2 c. chicken broth

1 15-oz. can of black, kidney or other beans, drained and rinsed, or 1 ½-2 c.

cooked dry beans

salt and pepper to taste (Katie suggests about 1 tsp. salt and ¼ tsp. pepper)

In a large pot heat a couple of Tbsp of oil. Add onion and celery and saute until soft. Add the garlic and saute for a minute or so longer.

While the celery and onion are cooking, in a separate pan, heat a couple of Tbsp of butter or olive oil, add rice and cook until slightly brown. This will give it a more authentic Rice-a-Roni texture. Once the rice is browned, add it to the veggies along with the chicken broth and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until the liquid is just about absorbed. Add beans and continue to simmer, covered, for 5 minutes.

Mandatory Entry:
For a chance to win this great bean resource you must click here to see The Everything Bean Book at Kitchen Stewardship. Please leave a comment that you did along with your email address. I'd hate to draw your entry and have no way of getting in touch!

Want more chances to win? Here are some extra entries! Again, please leave your email with at least one of your entry comments.

Read through the table of contents. Come back and leave a comment about a recipe you'd like to try.
Browse the recipes or Monday Missions at Kitchen Stewardship and choose your favorite.
Follow Katie on Twitter.
Subscribe to Kitchen Stewardship.

Giveaway ends April 17th! Good luck!

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Join in on the fun and make some new friends! Click here!

Feed Me, Tweet Me, Follow Me Home Blog Hop

2011-04-15T22:03:00.000-04:00

It's time for one of my favorite blog hops! Hosted by Alex of A Moderate Life, April of the 21st Century Housewife, and Hella D of Helladelicious, I love this blog hop because it is specifically for all of us foodies! Not that I don't love meeting new blogger friends who write about other topics, it's just especially nice to meet bloggers who share the same passion I do for food!

The rules are easy. Enter your link below and then subscribe to my RSS feed or email updates. Follow me on GFC and Twitter too! Leave a comment and your blog address and I'll return the favor :) Repeat with as many blog links as you like.

Moving....Up To My Ears In Boxes

2011-04-04T17:47:00.002-04:00

Short post to say, I am moving (physically) and I am swimming in boxes and trying to take care of the kids at the same time. I won't be able to post for the next few days, but I have a really exciting giveaway to share with you on Monday! Please come back to see and enter for your chance to win!

Big Breakfast Cookie--Individual Serving, Revised GF & CF Options!

2011-03-29T07:05:00.015-04:00

This big breakfast cookie comes from Weight Watchers. It's healthy and filling and who doesn't want cookies for breakfast!

I've edited this post to include gluten and dairy free options!

photo credit

1/3 cup oats, raw (1/3 cup gluten free oats, raw)
1/4 cup powdered skim milk, not reconstituted (1/4 cup arrowroot starch)
1/3 cup applesauce, unsweetened***
1 Tbsp raisins
2 pinches stevia powder
1 Tbsp water (or enough to form a cookie dough that will spread out a bit when baking)
1 Tbsp wheat flour (1 Tbsp gluten free flour mix)
1 tsp-1 Tbsp of fat (I like nut butter or coconut oil)
1 tsp baking powder (gluten free baking powder)

Preheat oven to 350. Mix ingredients together and pour one big cookie (or a couple of smaller cookies) on to cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake 12-15 minutes or until center is done.

***Variations:
You can use any fruit or vegetable puree.

Puree 2/3 cup strawberries or blueberries (warning blueberries will turn your cookie grayish-blue, but it taste good) or 1 small banana to make 1/3 cup of puree.

Add 2 tsp of cocoa powder to make it chocolate. Almond butter and banana puree is delicious for a chocolate cookie.

Add 1 Tbsp chocolate chips (carob chips) or 1 Tbsp chopped nuts.

Use 1/3 cup canned pumpkin in place of fruit puree + 1 tsp pumpkin spice.

Shared at:
Delicious Dishes     Simple Lives Thursday
Slightly Indulgent Tuesday   Pennywise Platter Thursday
What's Cooking Wednesday   Recipe Swap Thursday
Gluten Free Wednesday     Tip Day Thursday
Works For Me Wednesday     Full Plate Thursday
Real Food Wednesday   Frugal Food Thursday
Food & Health Carnival

Coconut Milk

2011-03-28T23:27:00.005-04:00

Because of my son's food allergies, he can't have cow's milk and he can't have any sort of commercially produce non-dairy milk. While I can give him other foods that are decent sources of calcium, it would be difficult to meet the daily requirement.
I know of people who have opted for raw cow's milk. From what I've read raw milk is often ok for those with dairy allergies. Pasteurization kills off the probiotics and enzymes that help break down the proteins and make digestion easier. The protein in dairy products is often the culprit that causes allergic reactions.
Raw milk is expensive and I feel a little funny about purchasing it knowing it is against the law. You can skirt around the issue because of the "pet consumption only" label, but it still feels weird to me. It's a personal choice. I'm not judging anyone who does buy raw milk for their family, Scout's honor!

photo credit

My solution came from Sally Fallon's Nourishing Traditions. She has a recipe for Coconut Milk Tonic which is nutritious and meets the needs for good fat and calcium that come from dairy milk.

I make mine a little differently, but the principle and basic ingredients are the same. If you decide that homemade coconut milk is a good choice for you, you might want to consider purchasing canned coconut milk by the case at Whole Foods. I get 10% off this way and their 365 brand is already a great price at $1.49 per can. The price per gallon works out to be a little more than $4. Not bad considering organic cow's milk is over $5 per gallon.

3 cans full fat coconut milk
1/8 tsp of pure stevia powder
3 tsp Dolomite powder
1 Tbsp vanilla (optional)
water

Fill a gallon pitcher about 2/3 full with the hottest water your sink can provide (or heat it on the stove, but hot water from the tap is faster and uses less dishes). Sprinkle Dolomite and stevia over water and stir until dissolved. Add coconut milk and stir again.

That's it. Not quite as simple as buying a carton at the store, but there's no extra ingredients either.

You might be wondering at this point what Dolomite is. It's a powdered form of calcium that your body easily absorbs. So now you are getting the calcium you need from your coconut milk too!

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Slightly Indulgent Tuesday

Gluten Free Stuffed French Toast

2011-03-28T09:26:00.015-04:00

photo credit

Disclaimer: The yummy picture is not my french toast. My camera is misbehaving but this is similar to how mine looked.

When I decided to make Strawberry Stuffed French Toast, I didn't really know how my family would react. I know that they like french toast, but would they like it with a cream cheese type filling? The answer is "yes!" Everyone loved it and asked for seconds.

I made my stuffing with coconut kefir cheese because one of my children cannot have dairy.*** Cream cheese would work great too.

Gluten Free Stuffed French Toast

Ingredients

8 pieces gluten free bread
4 eggs
1/2 cup milk
pinch stevia powder
3 oz cream cheese
maple syrup

Cooking Directions

Whisk together eggs, milk, and stevia. In a separate bowl, blend cream cheese and strawberry puree. Spread 2 Tbsp of strawberry mixture on 4 slices of bread. Assemble sandwiches and dip in egg mixture. Brown each side on a griddle. Top with remaining strawberry mixture and drizzle with maple syrup.

***Some options would be to strain dairy free plain yogurt (Turtle Mtn makes a coconut yogurt that's dairy free) or make Cashew Cream Cheese.

Find recipes for fresh, "in season," ingredients at:

Seasonal Sundays

Shared at:
Homemaker Monday   Tuesdays At The Table
Mmmmonday     Dr. Laura's Tasty Tuesday
Monday Mania     Hearth & Soul Hop
Melt In Your Mouth Monday     Tempt My Tummy Tuesday
Midnight Maniac's Meatless Mondays   Tasty Tuesday
Made From Scratch Tuesday
Delectable Tuesday

Menu Monday 3-28-11

2011-03-27T21:57:00.002-04:00

photo credit

I don't know if I have shared our news, but we are moving! I am very excited to get into our new house and spread out! We are going from a small ranch with 3 bedrooms to a two story 4 bedroom with a full basement!

As far as blogging goes, I might be in and out. Packing boxes and moving will require lots of time and energy. I need to get cracking on some serious bread baking for sandwiches.

Here's my menu for this week. I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Monday--
Breakfast: Cinnamon Toast
Lunch: Pb&j's, carrot sticks with Annie's Ranch Dressing (I got it on sale 1/2 price)
Dinner: Dinner with my parents :)

Tuesday--

Breakfast: Honey Muffins

Lunch: Gluten Free Rice Pasta with "Cheese" Sauce (Edit: This was a disaster.) , peas

Dinner: Sesame Chicken Pot Stickers (Edit: Two disasters in one day. Not a great day in the kitchen).

Wednesday--

Breakfast: Granola

Lunch: Tuna melts, apple slices

Dinner: Leftovers

Thursday--

Breakfast: Big Breakfast Cookies

Lunch: Egg sandwiches, oranges

Dinner: Ham & Cheese Wraps made with dosas from The Everything Beans Book

Friday--

Breakfast: Cheese Toast

Lunch: The little kids will be at my parents :)

Dinner: Pizza

Saturday--

Breakfast: Pancakes

Lunch: Leftover Pizza, grapes

Dinner: Sweet Potato Gnocchi, salad

Sunday--

Breakfast: Bacon & Eggs

Lunch: Potato skins, carrot sticks

Dinner: Leftovers

NOTE: Those recipes in RED will hopefully be posted later.

If you haven't seen the before and after pics of my son's eczema, please see this post. You won't believe how much it's improved.

Lotion Bars: Incredible Before and After Pics

2011-03-27T21:04:00.005-04:00

Before

After

I wanted to share with you my new etsy shop and a product that has been a life saver!

After searching for almost a year for a product that actually works on one of my toddler's eczema, I have finally found the answer! We went through lotion after lotion and cream after cream (some were even doctor recommended) and none of them did much good.

Griffin had a scaly red, angry rash over most of his body and face, and I felt helpless. I knew he was miserable and as a mom I felt it was my duty to keep trying even if I had little hope. As a last ditch effort I tried this lotion bar. I had no faith that it would work. I was surprised and ecstatic when after one week of applying the lotion twice a day, Griffin's eczema improved by 90%.

He still has a couple of small, faded patches that are stubbornly hanging on, but the rest of his body and his face have completely cleared! I can't say that this product will work for you or your loved one, but I can say that it worked for my son when nothing else did.

Nourished Skin Lotion Bars not only relieves the symptoms of eczema, but it also does wonders for dry skin in general. Keep a bar by the kitchen sink to moisturize your hands after washing dishes or store one in the bathroom to use on your dry, cracked heels after a shower. I tend to have dry skin everywhere so I use it all over.

When I started shopping for a bar, I noticed that they were a little on the pricey side. I want my bars to be more affordable. Get an oz more than most bars for less money.

I have 2 styles to choose from, same great formula. The square bars are just the bar and come wrapped in paper. The round bars come in a cute little reusable tin.

Want to see for yourself? Go to my etsy shop at NourishedSkin.etsy.com.

Lime Sorbet

2011-03-25T20:42:00.019-04:00

Ok, ok, this is more of a summertime dessert, but here in Georgia we have had some warm days warranting a cool treat for sweaty, flush-faced kids (and moms too). Although, I think a little frozen indulgence is enjoyable in the dead of winter. :)

Lime Sorbet requires a little manual juicer unless you enjoy squeezing limes by hand. I don't have one of these nifty little gadgets so I worked on my grip strength and got juice all over my hands and the counter. Originally I used 3/4 cups of lime juice. I squeezed a whole bag of limes by the time I figured out how tart I wanted the sorbet.

2-1/2 cups water
1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup lime juice
4 pinches of pure stevia powder
1 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional)

Dissolve honey in water in a medium size bowl. Stir in lime juice and stevia. If using spinach, pour mixture into food processor, add spinach, and process until smooth. I like the addition of spinach because it adds a little nutrients and also makes the sorbet a nice green color. You can't taste the spinach at all so it doesn't interfere with the flavor.

Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Once it is frozen, place back in food processor and process until smooth.

Click Here!

Shared at:
Pennywise Platter Thursday   Fight Back Friday
Simple Lives Thursday     Friday Favorites
Full Plate Thursday   Foodie Friday
Frugal Food Thursday     I'm Lovin' It
Fun With Food Friday     Sweets For A Saturday
Feed Me, Tweet Me, Follow Me Home
Saturday Swap
This Week's Cravings

Honey Muffins

2011-03-24T20:47:00.005-04:00

photo credit

I don't have a picture of the honey muffins I made this week. Why? Because my kids hoovered them like a vacuum. As soon as they came out of the oven and cooled enough not to burn their mouths, they were gone. My kids were either extremely hungry or they really liked these muffins. I'm going to go with the latter.

This recipe is not my own, but Bruce Fife's from Cooking with Coconut Flour. Coconut flour baked goods can often be a little dry. These muffins are soft and super moist and even rose nicely.

3 eggs
2 Tbsp butter, melted (I used coconut oil to make it dairy free)
2 Tbsp whole milk or coconut milk
3 Tbsp honey
1/4 tsp of salt
1/4 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup of coconut flour, sifted
1/4 tsp of baking powder (to make this grain free use this grain free baking powder recipe)

Preheat oven to 400. Mix well all the ingredients except coconut flour and baking powder. Stir in coconut flour and baking powder. You don't want any lumps. Pour into well greased muffin tins and bake for 15 minutes for standard muffins and 10 for minis. It makes about 6 regular muffins or 18 mini muffins.

I made mini muffins because my children tend to prefer them over the bigger size.