Yes, you're getting two posts in one night. This one is more about food. We had a lovely visit with my in-laws, who for some reason after ten days at our house actually wanted to go home. Could it be the exhaustion caused by a demanding three-year-old, or the lack of eggs and bread? Nah, they just wanted to get back to some things at home.
When they come to visit, I try to plan out meals and/or snacks since there are many staples in their diets they can't have in our house due to the Babe's allergies, and the fact that I keep kosher. Granted, they do get out on their own when they visit, and can eat out as often as they want. However, they spend most of the time with us. We arranged two nights to have our sitter come so the four of us could enjoy a meal out, and they got out for a lunch or two. Otherwise, they ate at home.
Mornings are probably the biggest challenge. My in-laws aren't the biggest of breakfast eaters, and when they do have breakfast at home, its usually eggs. When they're here, I try to make pancakes at least a few of the mornings. Before the Babe outgrew her rice allergy, I made GF pancakes from scratch. Now, I usually make it using GF Bisquick mix. I personally like the mix flavor over the other recipe I used. However, this morning I was running short on Bisquick, and a new recipe was born. I think I have a good substitute for the GF Bisquick now.
Gluten-Free Pancakes
1 1/2 C Brown Rice Flour
1/2 C Potato Starch
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp xanthan gum
1/2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp sugar
1/2 stick Earth Balance Buttery Spread
1 Tbsp ground flax seed meal
1 1/2 C Enriched Vanilla Soymilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional margarine for cooking.
1. Combine rice flour, potato starch, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, and sugar.
2. Blend in the margarine with a fork (crumbling the dry ingredients).
3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 tbsp flax seed meal with 3 tbsp water. Let sit for 3-5 minutes.
4. To the dry ingredient mix, add the soymilk, flax seed, and vanilla. Mix well. It may have small lumps from the margarine.
5. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, melt some margarine. Make the pancakes by the tablespoon full (or however you like to cook your pancakes). Enjoy!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Agenda
This month has flown by. A lot has actually happened in a short time. My in-laws came for a visit last week Tuesday, and just left today. They came with an agenda. Well, they came to spend quality time with the Babe and us. But they also came with a plan. Their goal was to fix a few things, such as the remaining hurdle for potty training, as well as the fact that the Babe was sleeping most nights in bed with me, forcing my husband out of our bed. Well, the potty training issue actually solved itself. As I previously mentioned, all it took was a little quiet time with our sitter, and voila! That issue seems to be taken care of.
The other issue really just took some consistency and a schedule. Bedtime prior to my in-laws visits involved her watching t.v. in our room, falling asleep way too late, then either sleeping the rest of the night in our bed, or being moved to hers, then her somehow finding her way into our room in the middle of the night.
Two things curbed the bedtime problem. First was getting the Babe to actually stay in her bed all night long. My child who doesn't seem to bend to bribing has suddenly found an interest in coins and her piggy bank. I told her one night that if she stayed in her bed all night while Papa and Gram were here, she'd get a quarter in the morning. That first morning she woke up, and barely awake announced that she'd slept in her bed all night and wanted money for her piggy bank. Well, she's getting rich, but its worth it. The second element of improving bedtime involved getting her to bed at a more reasonable time. My in-laws offered to watch the Babe while we got away for two nights. During that time, they got the Babe to bed at the same time each night. We are continuing what they started. Its great that she's staying in her bed all night long. The only negative is when she wakes in the middle of the night she wants to snuggle in her bed with me. It was easier when I didn't have to get out of bed, but eventually this to shall pass.
The other issue really just took some consistency and a schedule. Bedtime prior to my in-laws visits involved her watching t.v. in our room, falling asleep way too late, then either sleeping the rest of the night in our bed, or being moved to hers, then her somehow finding her way into our room in the middle of the night.
Two things curbed the bedtime problem. First was getting the Babe to actually stay in her bed all night long. My child who doesn't seem to bend to bribing has suddenly found an interest in coins and her piggy bank. I told her one night that if she stayed in her bed all night while Papa and Gram were here, she'd get a quarter in the morning. That first morning she woke up, and barely awake announced that she'd slept in her bed all night and wanted money for her piggy bank. Well, she's getting rich, but its worth it. The second element of improving bedtime involved getting her to bed at a more reasonable time. My in-laws offered to watch the Babe while we got away for two nights. During that time, they got the Babe to bed at the same time each night. We are continuing what they started. Its great that she's staying in her bed all night long. The only negative is when she wakes in the middle of the night she wants to snuggle in her bed with me. It was easier when I didn't have to get out of bed, but eventually this to shall pass.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Success
My little one is advanced in many areas. Somehow though she refuses to poop on the potty. As previously mentioned, there have been numerous attempts at bribes, but she hasn't taken the bait. I don't want to cause irreparable harm or emotional distress, so I haven't tried to force her. When asked why she won't try, she says she'll do it when she's older, when she's 5. Ahem- NO! However, she's only three so for now I'm not yet doing anything other then repeatedly offering the option to her (asking, begging, not quite yet pleading). However, with my in-laws coming to visit, she was repeatedly told that when Papa came she'd have to do it.
Well, they arrived Tuesday and there was no need to go, so no problem. However, yesterday the need arose and she refused. Papa let her know she broke her promise, but she still wanted a diaper. Later the four adults went out to dinner while our regular sitter watched the Babe. The Babe had fallen asleep just before we left, so I let the sitter know to give her an hour and then wake her. When we arrived home there was big news. The Babe did it! It didn't take bribes or any other manipulation other than all the adults to leave the house. Ok, the sitter is an adult, but she's also a playmate in the Babe's perspective. I'm guessing the Babe felt less threatened when her sitter gently pushed her to use the potty (with diaper in hand).
So, we'll see how the next few days go. She's already received a reward for what she did. She knows another promised reward is coming. Hopefully, the only thing left to do is cut out liquids before bedtime and then we're done with diapers.
Well, they arrived Tuesday and there was no need to go, so no problem. However, yesterday the need arose and she refused. Papa let her know she broke her promise, but she still wanted a diaper. Later the four adults went out to dinner while our regular sitter watched the Babe. The Babe had fallen asleep just before we left, so I let the sitter know to give her an hour and then wake her. When we arrived home there was big news. The Babe did it! It didn't take bribes or any other manipulation other than all the adults to leave the house. Ok, the sitter is an adult, but she's also a playmate in the Babe's perspective. I'm guessing the Babe felt less threatened when her sitter gently pushed her to use the potty (with diaper in hand).
So, we'll see how the next few days go. She's already received a reward for what she did. She knows another promised reward is coming. Hopefully, the only thing left to do is cut out liquids before bedtime and then we're done with diapers.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Really Demanding
I'm often amazed by the things the Babe says. Sometimes just because of how she might repeat a very grown up phrase in (or out of) context, other times just by her analytical skills. Here are two examples.
The other day I took her to the grocery store. I have been riding the fence as to whether to take her into one anymore. Its very stressful lately, and she doesn't follow directions all the time. So, we went to the store, I tried to stay calm, and she did really well. She stayed with me, didn't touch the conveyor belt checking out, and overall cooperated. So when we got to the car, I told her how she was such a good girl. Her response? "Mommy, you're really demanding!" No idea why she said it or where she heard that phrase. I laughed and asked where she got that from. "Auntie Melissa!" Hmmm...no, my sister did not tell her that. Considering any phone call the Babe has is on speaker phone, I think I would have remembered that too. Anyhow, she repeated it at least six more times during our five minute ride home, laughing each time.
Her other comment that impressed me for a different reason arose out of her desire to play outside. It was a bright, sunny day with frigid temperatures and biting wind. After earlier telling her it was too cold to play outside, she casually asked what games we were going to play outside now (as if we were about to wander out). I told her again why we couldn't, but she really wanted to. So I told her if the temperature was under 32 degrees, it would be too cold to play outside. I pulled out my Ipod, looked up the current temperature on the Weather Station, and told her it was 30 degrees out so we couldn't go outside. Her response? "Its 36 degrees, so we can go outside". Why did this impress me? Because she understood the concept of greater or less than= if the temperature was less than 32 she couldn't have something, but if it was greater than 32 she could. She also has been counting up to 30, so the fact that she figured out the numbers for this little math challenge was also impressive to me.
The other day I took her to the grocery store. I have been riding the fence as to whether to take her into one anymore. Its very stressful lately, and she doesn't follow directions all the time. So, we went to the store, I tried to stay calm, and she did really well. She stayed with me, didn't touch the conveyor belt checking out, and overall cooperated. So when we got to the car, I told her how she was such a good girl. Her response? "Mommy, you're really demanding!" No idea why she said it or where she heard that phrase. I laughed and asked where she got that from. "Auntie Melissa!" Hmmm...no, my sister did not tell her that. Considering any phone call the Babe has is on speaker phone, I think I would have remembered that too. Anyhow, she repeated it at least six more times during our five minute ride home, laughing each time.
Her other comment that impressed me for a different reason arose out of her desire to play outside. It was a bright, sunny day with frigid temperatures and biting wind. After earlier telling her it was too cold to play outside, she casually asked what games we were going to play outside now (as if we were about to wander out). I told her again why we couldn't, but she really wanted to. So I told her if the temperature was under 32 degrees, it would be too cold to play outside. I pulled out my Ipod, looked up the current temperature on the Weather Station, and told her it was 30 degrees out so we couldn't go outside. Her response? "Its 36 degrees, so we can go outside". Why did this impress me? Because she understood the concept of greater or less than= if the temperature was less than 32 she couldn't have something, but if it was greater than 32 she could. She also has been counting up to 30, so the fact that she figured out the numbers for this little math challenge was also impressive to me.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Drip Drop
It has become a challenge to take a shower daily. No, I'm not becoming one of the unwashed. However, once upon a time I enjoyed and preferred to take a hot shower every day. Now, courtesy of the Babe, I squeeze one in every other day, and am only super lucky if its two days in a row. Oh, what I wouldn't give for a long, hot shower without interruption. That luxury can only occur during the weekends.
The shower is only part of the luxury, its the without interruption part that I would like. I generally will put on the television in my bedroom, and the Babe lounges in my bed while I take a shower. I leave the master bathroom door open so I can hear her while I try to get in a five-minute-or-less shower. Although her favorite show might be on, generally I hear her calling for me. This requires turning off the water, and opening the door to find out if something is wrong. Nope, generally something is so funny or so urgent that she has to share the latest on t.v. On occasion, she will even go so far as to walk into the bathroom to get my attention, only to tell me Caillou or Elmo did something silly.
Today she was playing with blocks in my room. She didn't ask for t.v., and I figured I might have a shot at that shower. Got in, and within a minute (after being totally submerged), she cried out that the t.v. wasn't on. That required me to get out of my hot steamy shower to go turn on the t.v. dripping wet. After returning to my shower, she kept calling out laughing, requiring at least one additional time turning off of the water.
When she was an infant, I had no problem getting in a daily shower. I couldn't understand why my other friends who were new mothers had trouble. Until she started climbing, I could put her in her bassinet or bouncy seat, and know she was both content and safe. Our last home had a shower with clear glass walls, so that also made it easier. Now she's mobile and demanding, always wanting to share everything with me. I love that she wants me, but sometimes I could use a few minutes alone.
The shower is only part of the luxury, its the without interruption part that I would like. I generally will put on the television in my bedroom, and the Babe lounges in my bed while I take a shower. I leave the master bathroom door open so I can hear her while I try to get in a five-minute-or-less shower. Although her favorite show might be on, generally I hear her calling for me. This requires turning off the water, and opening the door to find out if something is wrong. Nope, generally something is so funny or so urgent that she has to share the latest on t.v. On occasion, she will even go so far as to walk into the bathroom to get my attention, only to tell me Caillou or Elmo did something silly.
Today she was playing with blocks in my room. She didn't ask for t.v., and I figured I might have a shot at that shower. Got in, and within a minute (after being totally submerged), she cried out that the t.v. wasn't on. That required me to get out of my hot steamy shower to go turn on the t.v. dripping wet. After returning to my shower, she kept calling out laughing, requiring at least one additional time turning off of the water.
When she was an infant, I had no problem getting in a daily shower. I couldn't understand why my other friends who were new mothers had trouble. Until she started climbing, I could put her in her bassinet or bouncy seat, and know she was both content and safe. Our last home had a shower with clear glass walls, so that also made it easier. Now she's mobile and demanding, always wanting to share everything with me. I love that she wants me, but sometimes I could use a few minutes alone.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Whooosh!
Whoosh and a jump about 3 feet high. What would that be? The automatic toilet flushing in a public restroom and my startled little one.
Let me back up a bit. We're still working on potty training. We have reached the point where diapers are not needed when we go out (only for bedtime, and to do something she still refuses to do on the toilet), and the Babe has used a public restroom. She was very excited by that, so now whenever we go out she tells us how she's going to use that store's bathroom when we go (whatever store we might be going to). Her first experience was at a Kohl's a few weeks back, second time last week at Target. She makes sure to tell everyone that she just went pee pee. Most people get a laugh at it.
Last night we went to visit my parents, who are about an hour drive from our home. En route she announced she needed to use the bathroom. Uh oh. We had options of places to stop, but she wanted to go potty at Grandma and Grandpa's. She actually was able to wait over a half hour after her announcement (we kept asking if she wanted us to stop). So, of course on the way home she made the same announcement, except she couldn't wait. We stopped a little over mid-way home at a hotel. As I held her while she sat on the toilet, I looked straight into the mechanical eye of the automatic flush and realized, oops, I should have covered that with some paper. I then warned the Babe that the toilet might flush on its own. That warning had no meaning, as seconds later it went off, and the Babe shot up. Its hard to hold a child dangling over a toilet while laughing, but it can be done. Anyhow, we finished up, and she made sure she announced to the young guy standing outside the restroom of her success.
No harm done. She's already announced that she's going to use the potty at the store later today. I just wish this wasn't part of the entertainment.
Let me back up a bit. We're still working on potty training. We have reached the point where diapers are not needed when we go out (only for bedtime, and to do something she still refuses to do on the toilet), and the Babe has used a public restroom. She was very excited by that, so now whenever we go out she tells us how she's going to use that store's bathroom when we go (whatever store we might be going to). Her first experience was at a Kohl's a few weeks back, second time last week at Target. She makes sure to tell everyone that she just went pee pee. Most people get a laugh at it.
Last night we went to visit my parents, who are about an hour drive from our home. En route she announced she needed to use the bathroom. Uh oh. We had options of places to stop, but she wanted to go potty at Grandma and Grandpa's. She actually was able to wait over a half hour after her announcement (we kept asking if she wanted us to stop). So, of course on the way home she made the same announcement, except she couldn't wait. We stopped a little over mid-way home at a hotel. As I held her while she sat on the toilet, I looked straight into the mechanical eye of the automatic flush and realized, oops, I should have covered that with some paper. I then warned the Babe that the toilet might flush on its own. That warning had no meaning, as seconds later it went off, and the Babe shot up. Its hard to hold a child dangling over a toilet while laughing, but it can be done. Anyhow, we finished up, and she made sure she announced to the young guy standing outside the restroom of her success.
No harm done. She's already announced that she's going to use the potty at the store later today. I just wish this wasn't part of the entertainment.
Friday, December 9, 2011
The Art of a Joke
Recently the Babe learned the art of telling knock-knock jokes. Ok, its a work in progress, but she's highly amused by them (especially the one's that make absolutely no sense). Tonight, she has been enjoying telling this one:
"Knock-Knock.
Who's there?
Don't you have a doorbell?"
Hahahaha!
"Knock-Knock.
Who's there?
Don't you have a doorbell?"
Hahahaha!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Sweet Treat
I know we went to the dentist yesterday, but today I had to make a treat. It had to be simple and sweet. So I made these faux peanut butter crispy things. Its doubtful the Babe will eat any (she somehow doesn't have much of a sweet tooth), but I certainly will. I cannot take credit for the recipe, but have no idea of its source as my Mother passed it on to me, origin unknown to her as well. The first time I made them, it kind of reminded me of those old Whatchamacallit candy bars (I think that was the name). Anyhow, they're so tasty, I'll share the recipe.
Peanutty Crispy Treats
1 C sugar
1/2 C corn syrup
2 C sunflower seed butter or peanut butter
4 C GF Rice Krispies
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup until boiling. Remove from heat, stir in the sunflower seed butter. Then stir in the cereal. Poor in a large, wax paper lined casserole dish or baking dish. Refrigerate 15-30 minutes, then cut into bars. Return to refrigerate to cool.
*Eat whenever you want, but usually tastes even better on the second day.
**I suspect my mother would be upset with me if I did not to suggest to drizzle some melted chocolate on top. But shh, I didn't do it with today's batch.
Peanutty Crispy Treats
1 C sugar
1/2 C corn syrup
2 C sunflower seed butter or peanut butter
4 C GF Rice Krispies
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup until boiling. Remove from heat, stir in the sunflower seed butter. Then stir in the cereal. Poor in a large, wax paper lined casserole dish or baking dish. Refrigerate 15-30 minutes, then cut into bars. Return to refrigerate to cool.
*Eat whenever you want, but usually tastes even better on the second day.
**I suspect my mother would be upset with me if I did not to suggest to drizzle some melted chocolate on top. But shh, I didn't do it with today's batch.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Dental Visit
The Babe had her very first dental visit today. We saw a pediatric dentist our pediatrician recommended. I informed them ahead of time about the Babe's allergies, and reminded them once in the office. For me, the stressful part of the visit was how the Babe would handle any of the cleaners, not the actual procedure. While crying and screaming may be embarrassing, I can live with that.
Anyhow, the Babe wanted to play with the toys in the office. Since I doubt most people eat in a dentist's office, I wasn't concerned about that. However, once in the exam room, that's all she wanted to do was play. She then was afraid of the chair and the tools. Easing her into it wasn't working. So, I was given an option- hold her tight or they could use a papoose. Thinking it was a simple cloth thing, I o.k.'d the papoose. Turns out its a back board with soft sides that cross over. I held her hands, but she was restrained. That made me feel bad, however, it had to be done. She cried and screamed, but the dentist got her teeth cleaned. It didn't seem to phase the dentist or tech (which is why I was happy to see a pediatric dentist rather than a regular one). The dentist said it was great that the Babe is strong-willed, and will serve her well later in life. The front desk person and tech also commented on the same. Gee, that makes me feel great when she's fighting us on routine things, but glad her stubbornness will pay off later. Actually, glad they could find the positive in it, too.
After she was all done, the Babe got two toothbrushes and picked a toy ring as her prize. The dentist asked for a hug, which was nice, until we got to the front of the office. That's when the Babe had some hives pop out on the upper part of both cheeks. Either the scrub top irritated her face, or something on it caused a contact reaction. I washed her cheeks off, watched for a bit, and the hives eventually went away. Go figure that it wasn't the pumice paste used to clean her teeth but a simple hug that triggered the reaction. Life with an allergic child requires constant watching. Nothing can be simple, not even a hug.
Anyhow, the Babe wanted to play with the toys in the office. Since I doubt most people eat in a dentist's office, I wasn't concerned about that. However, once in the exam room, that's all she wanted to do was play. She then was afraid of the chair and the tools. Easing her into it wasn't working. So, I was given an option- hold her tight or they could use a papoose. Thinking it was a simple cloth thing, I o.k.'d the papoose. Turns out its a back board with soft sides that cross over. I held her hands, but she was restrained. That made me feel bad, however, it had to be done. She cried and screamed, but the dentist got her teeth cleaned. It didn't seem to phase the dentist or tech (which is why I was happy to see a pediatric dentist rather than a regular one). The dentist said it was great that the Babe is strong-willed, and will serve her well later in life. The front desk person and tech also commented on the same. Gee, that makes me feel great when she's fighting us on routine things, but glad her stubbornness will pay off later. Actually, glad they could find the positive in it, too.
After she was all done, the Babe got two toothbrushes and picked a toy ring as her prize. The dentist asked for a hug, which was nice, until we got to the front of the office. That's when the Babe had some hives pop out on the upper part of both cheeks. Either the scrub top irritated her face, or something on it caused a contact reaction. I washed her cheeks off, watched for a bit, and the hives eventually went away. Go figure that it wasn't the pumice paste used to clean her teeth but a simple hug that triggered the reaction. Life with an allergic child requires constant watching. Nothing can be simple, not even a hug.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
"I Want"
Children's television programming aimed at 2-4 year olds is mostly wonderful and educational. The commercials though are not. When we started watching children's programming, specifically on Sprout, the commercials were for diapers and a reading program. No toys. Now we have diversified our channel watching, and the station with the Big Mouse knows a lot about marketing. So of course, when we watch that channel, the only non-toy commercial I can recall is for a cake pop maker. This has led to a frequent case of, "I Want!". It doesn't matter what the item is (including the baking tool), the Babe repeatedly says, "I Want". She doesn't ask for the product after seeing it, only during the commercial. So last night, I got rather sick of hearing her say, "I want" over and over and over again. Finally, when she wouldn't stop, I suggested she say, "I like". Well, she got the concept and redefined it. Her next response was, "I like it. Get it for me?". Argh!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Sneaky Babe
The Babe may not have any siblings, and may spend very little time with other children, but she sure has figured out ways to try to manipulate her parents without any outside examples (that I know of).
For instance, earlier today she asked if she could have a tissue from a little pack in my purse. Of course she could. I looked away for a minute, only to turn back and see she's pulled them all out of the packet and throwing them around. Her response was to look up at me all innocently and say, "I love you Momma!". She is also very quick to say she's sorry, followed by "I love you" when she's done something she shouldn't.
And lastly, the ultimate in child warfare, she has attempted on several occasions to pit her parents against each other. Well, maybe not against each other. Rather, she'll ask for something from one of us, and when she's told no, she'll turn to the other and ask for it. This may occur when we're at opposite ends of the house or right next to each other on the couch. Luckily, my husband and I are pretty much on the same page and equally refuse her. Brilliant tactic for a three year old. Good thing we don't have a dog to blame things on!
For instance, earlier today she asked if she could have a tissue from a little pack in my purse. Of course she could. I looked away for a minute, only to turn back and see she's pulled them all out of the packet and throwing them around. Her response was to look up at me all innocently and say, "I love you Momma!". She is also very quick to say she's sorry, followed by "I love you" when she's done something she shouldn't.
And lastly, the ultimate in child warfare, she has attempted on several occasions to pit her parents against each other. Well, maybe not against each other. Rather, she'll ask for something from one of us, and when she's told no, she'll turn to the other and ask for it. This may occur when we're at opposite ends of the house or right next to each other on the couch. Luckily, my husband and I are pretty much on the same page and equally refuse her. Brilliant tactic for a three year old. Good thing we don't have a dog to blame things on!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving! We have a lot to be thankful for. I am most thankful for my family, both immediate and extended. In particular, everyone's health and wellness is the number one reason to be thankful. Besides being reminded to give thanks for what we have (tangible and intangible), it is also a day to indulge in a bit of gluttony. Forget calorie counting, who cares about carbs. I look forward to the food.
Just because we live with major food allergies, doesn't mean we can't enjoy. The turkey is not my favorite thing to cook (I'm happy to eat it), but boy was I proud of it when it came out of the oven golden brown. And I don't think it was particularly dry either.
So, in case you were wondering how we celebrated Thanksgiving without gluten (wheat, rye, or barley products), eggs, or dairy, this was my feast menu:
- Whole Turkey slow cooked in the oven
- Fresh cranberry jelly
- Cornbread
- Candied sweet potatoes (with orange and spice)
- Green bean casserole
- Stuffing (made with a rice-based GF bread)
- Baby potatoes (really only made for the Babe's benefit, who didn't have more than a bite)
- Apple crisp
- Both vanilla and pumpkin flavored non-dairy ice creams.
We ate round one early enough in the day that I got to enjoy a smaller version for a late dinner. And after spending the past two days preparing this feast, I'm sure you're wondering how the Babe enjoyed the meal? She looked like she was going to eat it, slathered on a lot of margarine onto a slice of cornbread, mushed around a potato, and maybe had a little bite of turkey and potato (not really sure). About 2 1/2 hours later she opted to have a hot dog and french fries. I suspect soon she will be having some cereal. Oh well. At least the adults got to enjoy it, and I know what we're having for dinner tomorrow.
Just because we live with major food allergies, doesn't mean we can't enjoy. The turkey is not my favorite thing to cook (I'm happy to eat it), but boy was I proud of it when it came out of the oven golden brown. And I don't think it was particularly dry either.
So, in case you were wondering how we celebrated Thanksgiving without gluten (wheat, rye, or barley products), eggs, or dairy, this was my feast menu:
- Whole Turkey slow cooked in the oven
- Fresh cranberry jelly
- Cornbread
- Candied sweet potatoes (with orange and spice)
- Green bean casserole
- Stuffing (made with a rice-based GF bread)
- Baby potatoes (really only made for the Babe's benefit, who didn't have more than a bite)
- Apple crisp
- Both vanilla and pumpkin flavored non-dairy ice creams.
We ate round one early enough in the day that I got to enjoy a smaller version for a late dinner. And after spending the past two days preparing this feast, I'm sure you're wondering how the Babe enjoyed the meal? She looked like she was going to eat it, slathered on a lot of margarine onto a slice of cornbread, mushed around a potato, and maybe had a little bite of turkey and potato (not really sure). About 2 1/2 hours later she opted to have a hot dog and french fries. I suspect soon she will be having some cereal. Oh well. At least the adults got to enjoy it, and I know what we're having for dinner tomorrow.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Is It Thursday Yet?
Have I mentioned I'm excited about Thanksgiving? Well, my only concern is timing and oven space. The turkey was taken out yesterday to defrost. I will be watching it closely so as not to have the same issues I had during Passover, although I know worst case scenario I can finish thawing it in water. I have a good sized oven, but don't know what will fit in it besides the turkey. This time I will make sure to take out all the racks but the bottom one when I start the turkey (again, to avoid what I did last time). This way if I have the room, I can add a rack later. And I will not be using a bag- again, lesson learned!
In addition to the turkey, I have several other menu items. One of my favorites is my green bean casserole. Oddly enough, we didn't have that too often growing up, and I don't recall it ever being on our family's holiday menu. My recipe does not contain cream of mushroom soup (which contains wheat and most also have dairy). It is very simple, but I'm proud to say I can make this from scratch. Here's my recipe:
Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Green Bean Casserole
1/2 stick (1/4 C) margarine
1/4 cup GF All Purpose Flour
1 1/2 cups No-Chicken Chicken broth (or use vegetable or regular chicken broth)
1 Tbsp GF Tamari *
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 14 oz. cans of green beans.
1 C GF corn flake crumbs**
2-3 tbsp margarine**
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the margarine, and then add the flour to make a rue. Stir in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until the sauce thickens. It will take a few minutes. If the sauce doesn't thicken, add another 1-2 tsp of flour.
3. Drain the liquid from the canned green beans. Add to the thickened sauce.
4. Melt the additional 2-3 tbsp margarine in a separate dish, then stir in the corn flakes crumb to the margarine.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into your baking dish. Top with the corn flake crumbs.
6. Bake for 20 minutes.
*If you don't have gluten issues, you can substitute soy sauce for the Tamari
** The corn flake crumb mixed with margarine is an estimated measurement. You will need enough to cover your casserole dish.
In addition to the turkey, I have several other menu items. One of my favorites is my green bean casserole. Oddly enough, we didn't have that too often growing up, and I don't recall it ever being on our family's holiday menu. My recipe does not contain cream of mushroom soup (which contains wheat and most also have dairy). It is very simple, but I'm proud to say I can make this from scratch. Here's my recipe:
Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Green Bean Casserole
1/2 stick (1/4 C) margarine
1/4 cup GF All Purpose Flour
1 1/2 cups No-Chicken Chicken broth (or use vegetable or regular chicken broth)
1 Tbsp GF Tamari *
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 14 oz. cans of green beans.
1 C GF corn flake crumbs**
2-3 tbsp margarine**
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the margarine, and then add the flour to make a rue. Stir in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until the sauce thickens. It will take a few minutes. If the sauce doesn't thicken, add another 1-2 tsp of flour.
3. Drain the liquid from the canned green beans. Add to the thickened sauce.
4. Melt the additional 2-3 tbsp margarine in a separate dish, then stir in the corn flakes crumb to the margarine.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into your baking dish. Top with the corn flake crumbs.
6. Bake for 20 minutes.
*If you don't have gluten issues, you can substitute soy sauce for the Tamari
** The corn flake crumb mixed with margarine is an estimated measurement. You will need enough to cover your casserole dish.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
The Great Escape
Since the Babe was born, I have not had many nights away from her. In fact, only once up until last week. This past week was our wedding anniversary, so my husband planned a night away. Now our reason for the night away may not be as exciting as it sounds- we wanted to order a pizza and eat it in our room, perhaps rent a movie or at the very least watch regular programming (no Disney or Sprout), and not be awoken in the middle of the night by our child. This is probably a typical night for many people, but not for us.
We stayed within an hour of our home, and had our excellent sitter stay with the Babe. The Babe was excited because she had been asking to have a "sleepover" with the sitter for a few weeks. While we had arranged to go away way before her request, this made it easier. My only concern was how the Babe would handle waking up in the middle of the night without me here, and secondly, waking in the morning without us. Silly me, she had no problem. In fact, during the night when she woke she called out our sitters name, and soon went right back to sleep.
Our night away was exactly what we wanted. We were able to enjoy ourselves because 1) we knew the Babe was in good hands; 2) we weren't too far away; and 3) we still enjoy each other's company. Happy Anniversary to Us!
We stayed within an hour of our home, and had our excellent sitter stay with the Babe. The Babe was excited because she had been asking to have a "sleepover" with the sitter for a few weeks. While we had arranged to go away way before her request, this made it easier. My only concern was how the Babe would handle waking up in the middle of the night without me here, and secondly, waking in the morning without us. Silly me, she had no problem. In fact, during the night when she woke she called out our sitters name, and soon went right back to sleep.
Our night away was exactly what we wanted. We were able to enjoy ourselves because 1) we knew the Babe was in good hands; 2) we weren't too far away; and 3) we still enjoy each other's company. Happy Anniversary to Us!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thanksgiving Yumminess
I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving next week. Its one of my favorite holidays. I have very warm memories of spending it at my grandmother's house growing up. In particular, I always loved going outside for a few minutes to take in some of the crisp fall air after indulging in a heavy meal, and then just relaxing with my family. There was no rush to do anything or be anywhere.
This year it will be much quieter for us. After last year's attempt to join my family for the holiday, only to have to leave 45 minutes after arriving due to the Babe starting to develop hives, this year we're staying home. While it would be nice to be with all our family, it is safer and less stressful this way.
Just because its a much smaller gathering, doesn't mean I won't have the essentials. And I bought a huge turkey. I didn't quite calculate what I would need, but I didn't really want to either. There will be plenty, and if we have any last minute added guests, no worries either.
Now to the fun part. My family always has apple and pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving. I have made pie twice in my adult life, and only since the Babe's allergies. The first attempt at a pumpkin pie was disgusting. The second was very good. This year I'm changing it up a bit, which will actually make life easier. I have tested the recipes, and now cannot wait for dessert next week. We will be having a gluten-free apple crisp and pumpkin ice cream. Both taste tested, hence my excitement. Here are the recipes. Please note, the first step of the ice cream must be done the day before.
Gluten Free Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
6 apples
1- 1 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons corn starch
1 cup Gluten free Oats
3/4 cup brown rice flour
1 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick margarine
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease the bottom and sides of an 8x11-inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. Peel and core the apples. Slice them and put them into a large bowl.
3. Sprinkle the apples with lemon juice and toss to coat. Add the 2 Tbsp brown sugar and toss again. Add the corn starch and stir again to coat the slices. Then pour the slices into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the oats, brown rice flour, 1 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and stir/whisk together. Add the margarine in pieces, using a pastry cutter, forks, or your hands, cut the margarine into the flour blend until you have a sandy mixture. Spread the mixture all over the top of your apples. (It will probably be a thick layer).
5. Bake for about 20 minutes. Cover the top loosely with a piece of foil and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes or so. Remove from the oven, and let cool a little before eating.
Pumpkin Ice Cream
15 oz canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
3/4 C brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
2 - 8oz containers of Rich's Whip, thawed
Additional Rich's Nondairy Creamer (couple of Tbsp to add to Rich's Whip to make liquid total 2 cups)
1. Freeze the bowl insert of an ice cream maker overnight.
2. Combine pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix thoroughly.
3. In a two-cup measure, add Rich's Whip. If it does not equal two cups, add enough Rich's non-dairy creamer to total two-cups liquid.
4. Pour liquid into pumpkin mix, whisk until completely combined. Cover, and refrigerate about 20 minutes or more.
5. Remove pumpkin mix from refrigerator, whisk once more. Add to ice cream maker. Run for 25-30 minutes. Transfer to a container and freeze to firm for at least an hour. Then enjoy!!!
* If you do not have to avoid dairy, this can be made with 2 cups of Whipping Cream instead of the Rich's.
This year it will be much quieter for us. After last year's attempt to join my family for the holiday, only to have to leave 45 minutes after arriving due to the Babe starting to develop hives, this year we're staying home. While it would be nice to be with all our family, it is safer and less stressful this way.
Just because its a much smaller gathering, doesn't mean I won't have the essentials. And I bought a huge turkey. I didn't quite calculate what I would need, but I didn't really want to either. There will be plenty, and if we have any last minute added guests, no worries either.
Now to the fun part. My family always has apple and pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving. I have made pie twice in my adult life, and only since the Babe's allergies. The first attempt at a pumpkin pie was disgusting. The second was very good. This year I'm changing it up a bit, which will actually make life easier. I have tested the recipes, and now cannot wait for dessert next week. We will be having a gluten-free apple crisp and pumpkin ice cream. Both taste tested, hence my excitement. Here are the recipes. Please note, the first step of the ice cream must be done the day before.
Gluten Free Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
6 apples
1- 1 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons corn starch
1 cup Gluten free Oats
3/4 cup brown rice flour
1 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick margarine
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease the bottom and sides of an 8x11-inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. Peel and core the apples. Slice them and put them into a large bowl.
3. Sprinkle the apples with lemon juice and toss to coat. Add the 2 Tbsp brown sugar and toss again. Add the corn starch and stir again to coat the slices. Then pour the slices into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the oats, brown rice flour, 1 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and stir/whisk together. Add the margarine in pieces, using a pastry cutter, forks, or your hands, cut the margarine into the flour blend until you have a sandy mixture. Spread the mixture all over the top of your apples. (It will probably be a thick layer).
5. Bake for about 20 minutes. Cover the top loosely with a piece of foil and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes or so. Remove from the oven, and let cool a little before eating.
Pumpkin Ice Cream
15 oz canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
3/4 C brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
2 - 8oz containers of Rich's Whip, thawed
Additional Rich's Nondairy Creamer (couple of Tbsp to add to Rich's Whip to make liquid total 2 cups)
1. Freeze the bowl insert of an ice cream maker overnight.
2. Combine pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix thoroughly.
3. In a two-cup measure, add Rich's Whip. If it does not equal two cups, add enough Rich's non-dairy creamer to total two-cups liquid.
4. Pour liquid into pumpkin mix, whisk until completely combined. Cover, and refrigerate about 20 minutes or more.
5. Remove pumpkin mix from refrigerator, whisk once more. Add to ice cream maker. Run for 25-30 minutes. Transfer to a container and freeze to firm for at least an hour. Then enjoy!!!
* If you do not have to avoid dairy, this can be made with 2 cups of Whipping Cream instead of the Rich's.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Riding in Cars
We recently bought a new car. The process itself wasn't complicated, until you factor in the Babe.
We initially went to the dealership, and test drove the vehicle we thought we wanted. My husband and I each took turns while the other entertained the Babe in the dealership. We were fairly certain we knew what we wanted, so we returned a few days later to discuss options. They didn't have what we wanted in stock, so we had a few days before the car would come in from another dealership. One of the options we wanted was leather seats, in part because of the Babe's allergies, the other for keeping the vehicle clean. We had tried to test drive a car with her, moving her carseat to a vehicle with a dark interior. My husband picked up on the fact that the Babe didn't like the darker interior, in fact, she wanted nothing to do with the car. While the car was meant to be used for my everyday use, if we couldn't get her to adapt, it would become my husband's, and I would continue to use our other vehicle. Not the end of the world, but kind of defeated the purpose of why were getting this car.
So we picked up the car on a Thursday night without the Babe. We kept telling her about it, and the next day I was looking forward to taking her for a ride. She repeatedly said she didn't want to go in it. I moved the car into the driveway, got her in the backseat, and put the radio on. She danced and bounced along, but refused to go for a ride. That's as far as we got. However, I refused to be ruled by my three year old on this issue. So, Saturday we started out the same, let her dance for a minute, then got her into her carseat. She cried, but the three of use went for a ride. We got almost to the expressway (8 miles from home), when she announced she had to go potty. She's not yet using public restrooms (again, afraid), so had to return home. When I pulled into the driveway, she announced Mommy's car was "super cool". Now, she only wants to ride in the silver car (the new one). That's right- all it took was a few minutes of actually riding in the vehicle, and now she loves it. Have I mentioned that my child is stubborn? Well, so are her parents. In this case, the victory to the parents.
We initially went to the dealership, and test drove the vehicle we thought we wanted. My husband and I each took turns while the other entertained the Babe in the dealership. We were fairly certain we knew what we wanted, so we returned a few days later to discuss options. They didn't have what we wanted in stock, so we had a few days before the car would come in from another dealership. One of the options we wanted was leather seats, in part because of the Babe's allergies, the other for keeping the vehicle clean. We had tried to test drive a car with her, moving her carseat to a vehicle with a dark interior. My husband picked up on the fact that the Babe didn't like the darker interior, in fact, she wanted nothing to do with the car. While the car was meant to be used for my everyday use, if we couldn't get her to adapt, it would become my husband's, and I would continue to use our other vehicle. Not the end of the world, but kind of defeated the purpose of why were getting this car.
So we picked up the car on a Thursday night without the Babe. We kept telling her about it, and the next day I was looking forward to taking her for a ride. She repeatedly said she didn't want to go in it. I moved the car into the driveway, got her in the backseat, and put the radio on. She danced and bounced along, but refused to go for a ride. That's as far as we got. However, I refused to be ruled by my three year old on this issue. So, Saturday we started out the same, let her dance for a minute, then got her into her carseat. She cried, but the three of use went for a ride. We got almost to the expressway (8 miles from home), when she announced she had to go potty. She's not yet using public restrooms (again, afraid), so had to return home. When I pulled into the driveway, she announced Mommy's car was "super cool". Now, she only wants to ride in the silver car (the new one). That's right- all it took was a few minutes of actually riding in the vehicle, and now she loves it. Have I mentioned that my child is stubborn? Well, so are her parents. In this case, the victory to the parents.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Trick-or-Treat
This year for Halloween I couldn't get away with the Babe not realizing what was happening. I dressed her up when she was an infant, and she was shown off to neighbors that were trick-or-treating. The next year I made her a costume that she wasn't interested in, and she was unaware of what was going on. Last year she fell asleep just as the trick-or-treaters were coming around. But this year she knew. All the children's shows had something about Halloween, costumes, and trick-or-treating. I don't think she fully understood, to which I took advantage of that.
Our community dictated trick-or-treating to occur on Sunday, the 30th, late in the afternoon. So, just before it was supposed to start, I dressed her up in a princess costume. She thought her friends were coming, not quite grasping that trick-or-treaters ring the bell, and soon after, leave. However, after the first round she understood. And she insisted that she open the door. As long as I was there, that was fine. It was dark and rainy for the majority of the time. Hence, I have a couple hundred Dum-dum lollipops leftover. That's ok, because I only gave out safe candy. Yes, most kids with food allergies wouldn't go trick-or-treating, but for those who might, or simply have a nut allergy (versus the numerous ones we deal with), we were safe.
I suspect next year will be more of a challenge. I do not intend to take her out. Hopefully she will enjoy the dressing up and giving out candy. I will be happy to buy her a small toy in lieu of candy. Its better that way- greater enjoyment for a longer period of time, rather than temporary enjoyment of a piece of sugar (ok, right now I'd take the sugar, but that's my story for her and I'm sticking to it!).
Our community dictated trick-or-treating to occur on Sunday, the 30th, late in the afternoon. So, just before it was supposed to start, I dressed her up in a princess costume. She thought her friends were coming, not quite grasping that trick-or-treaters ring the bell, and soon after, leave. However, after the first round she understood. And she insisted that she open the door. As long as I was there, that was fine. It was dark and rainy for the majority of the time. Hence, I have a couple hundred Dum-dum lollipops leftover. That's ok, because I only gave out safe candy. Yes, most kids with food allergies wouldn't go trick-or-treating, but for those who might, or simply have a nut allergy (versus the numerous ones we deal with), we were safe.
I suspect next year will be more of a challenge. I do not intend to take her out. Hopefully she will enjoy the dressing up and giving out candy. I will be happy to buy her a small toy in lieu of candy. Its better that way- greater enjoyment for a longer period of time, rather than temporary enjoyment of a piece of sugar (ok, right now I'd take the sugar, but that's my story for her and I'm sticking to it!).
Sunday, November 6, 2011
A Taste of Freedom
So I made my great escape today. As soon as I got up this morning, I jumped in the shower, and soon after, hopped out the door. I went first to my parents house, and then to my sister's. All...by...myself. That's right, I got some freedom. In some ways it felt like I had to twist my husband's arm for it, but he got some time to himself yesterday, so it was only fair.
My parents house was kind of a last minute stop-over. I gave them an hour's notice, but with the time change, they were up before I was even on my way. Once there, they offered me food. Lots of it. My mother offered me ice cream at 9:30 in the morning- well, with the time change last night, it seemed later, but it was still a bit early for ice cream. They offered me eggs, bread, cheese, chocolate, crackers, pretzels, etc. I had a couple pretzels and two mini Twix. Not bad based on the options. Then to my sister's house where she also offered me a plethora of non-Babe safe food, including lots of cheese, ice cream, and some of her kid's Halloween candy. I had lunch there, which definitely included bread and cheese. I could have been really bad, but again, tried to have a little self-control. Its funny but while my family will generally offer food during a visit, they really were pushing it today knowing I had a limited window to get in all the goodies.
But for the Babe's allergies, oh the snacking we could do. Its scary to think how bad I could be if we could have all those goodies on a regular basis. Its bad enough we have potato chips in our house. Well, I had my freedom, enjoyed my family without a little one to hover over, and came home to a happy child who got some quality time with her Daddy. First thing I did after I got home was to jump back in the shower, and now I get to enjoy the remainder of the day with her (while Daddy takes a nap).
My parents house was kind of a last minute stop-over. I gave them an hour's notice, but with the time change, they were up before I was even on my way. Once there, they offered me food. Lots of it. My mother offered me ice cream at 9:30 in the morning- well, with the time change last night, it seemed later, but it was still a bit early for ice cream. They offered me eggs, bread, cheese, chocolate, crackers, pretzels, etc. I had a couple pretzels and two mini Twix. Not bad based on the options. Then to my sister's house where she also offered me a plethora of non-Babe safe food, including lots of cheese, ice cream, and some of her kid's Halloween candy. I had lunch there, which definitely included bread and cheese. I could have been really bad, but again, tried to have a little self-control. Its funny but while my family will generally offer food during a visit, they really were pushing it today knowing I had a limited window to get in all the goodies.
But for the Babe's allergies, oh the snacking we could do. Its scary to think how bad I could be if we could have all those goodies on a regular basis. Its bad enough we have potato chips in our house. Well, I had my freedom, enjoyed my family without a little one to hover over, and came home to a happy child who got some quality time with her Daddy. First thing I did after I got home was to jump back in the shower, and now I get to enjoy the remainder of the day with her (while Daddy takes a nap).
Friday, October 21, 2011
Mom... Mom...MOM
This week my daughter could have tried the patience of a saint. And I'm not a saint. When you have a baby, you can't wait for all those mile stones. They start cooing and chattering, and soon they can say Mama. How exciting and wonderful. Well, I am still happy she can call me by name, but ten times in ten seconds is not quite what I want. Besides being demanding, requesting things rudely, followed by her yelling, "Now" with her arms crossed and a pout, there has been the crying, screaming, and outright tantrums. Yesterday she did this a minimum of four times. One lasted a solid half hour because I refused to turn the t.v. on or let her play on the computer until she ate some of dinner. I refused to cave on that one. Eventually she sat at the table, and then happily ate some pasta. Once she ate a modicum of it, she then got to play on the computer, tooling around at pbskids.org.
I'm going to guess at the spark of behavior. While its not new, the significant increase in frequency and duration this week is probably in part due to my husband not being around much. In fact, we didn't have dinner once with him this week. She saw very little of him, and yesterday he had to leave for a last minute overnight business trip. Lets just say, I cannot wait for his return.
While we are busy tomorrow, I have now penciled in plans for us on Sunday morning. Oh, wait, those are my plans to run away. No, the circus isn't in town, but if I don't get a few hours to myself I may just have to find one.
I'm going to guess at the spark of behavior. While its not new, the significant increase in frequency and duration this week is probably in part due to my husband not being around much. In fact, we didn't have dinner once with him this week. She saw very little of him, and yesterday he had to leave for a last minute overnight business trip. Lets just say, I cannot wait for his return.
While we are busy tomorrow, I have now penciled in plans for us on Sunday morning. Oh, wait, those are my plans to run away. No, the circus isn't in town, but if I don't get a few hours to myself I may just have to find one.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Let's Go Fly a Kite
I'm guessing that we're going to get some cold weather soon. Ok, not really a psychic thing here, just reality. It is mid-October after all. Right now though we're experiencing some mild fall weather, so we might as well take advantage of it while we can. Yesterday we took the Babe to a local pumpkin farm where she had fun picking out a bunch of baby pumpkins. They now have a place of honor on our front porch. I'm not sure yet if we'll decorate any of them. I'm also debating if one of those little pumpkins might find their way into being oven roasted. Still a few more weeks to buy more if one or two should disappear from our porch.
In other weather-enjoying related news, we have been having fun flying our kite. When I pulled into the garage this morning after being at the gym, she asked if we could go fly the kite. Since neither of us was starving for lunch, the sun was shining, and it wasn't freezing out, my answer was a definite yes. It was fun, we both ran around a bit, and got some nice height going on the kite a few times. I'm not sure how many more days we'll get to do this, so have to be open to it when she asks. Today was the second day in a row we did this. We'll see how the wind blows tomorrow whether we do it again.
And its been a long while since I've posted a recipe, so here goes. My husband loves lemon, and I thought chicken piccata or something similar would be good tonight. However, because of the Babe's allergies, I'm afraid to cook anything with wine. So in lieu of wine, I substituted apple juice. He enjoyed it (the Babe only wanted toast for dinner-argh!), so I don't want to forget how I made it. Hence, me posting the recipe.
Baked Lemon Chicken
1- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1-2 Tbsp margarine
1/4 C apple juice
1/2 C chicken broth
3 Tbsp bottled lemon juice
salt
1-2 tsp corn starch + 2 Tbsp chicken broth
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
2. Place chicken in a baking dish. Put dabs of margerine on chicken pieces.
3. Mix apple juice, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Pour over chicken (try not to displace margerine). Sprinkle a little salt over chicken. Place in oven.
4. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until chicken is done. Remove from oven. Place chicken on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. In a saucepan, pour the cooking liquids. Heat to boiling. In a separate container combine corn starch with some chicken broth, then add to pan. Continue to heat through until it thickens or reduces, creating a sauce. Add salt to taste. Serve over chicken.
In other weather-enjoying related news, we have been having fun flying our kite. When I pulled into the garage this morning after being at the gym, she asked if we could go fly the kite. Since neither of us was starving for lunch, the sun was shining, and it wasn't freezing out, my answer was a definite yes. It was fun, we both ran around a bit, and got some nice height going on the kite a few times. I'm not sure how many more days we'll get to do this, so have to be open to it when she asks. Today was the second day in a row we did this. We'll see how the wind blows tomorrow whether we do it again.
And its been a long while since I've posted a recipe, so here goes. My husband loves lemon, and I thought chicken piccata or something similar would be good tonight. However, because of the Babe's allergies, I'm afraid to cook anything with wine. So in lieu of wine, I substituted apple juice. He enjoyed it (the Babe only wanted toast for dinner-argh!), so I don't want to forget how I made it. Hence, me posting the recipe.
Baked Lemon Chicken
1- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1-2 Tbsp margarine
1/4 C apple juice
1/2 C chicken broth
3 Tbsp bottled lemon juice
salt
1-2 tsp corn starch + 2 Tbsp chicken broth
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
2. Place chicken in a baking dish. Put dabs of margerine on chicken pieces.
3. Mix apple juice, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Pour over chicken (try not to displace margerine). Sprinkle a little salt over chicken. Place in oven.
4. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until chicken is done. Remove from oven. Place chicken on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. In a saucepan, pour the cooking liquids. Heat to boiling. In a separate container combine corn starch with some chicken broth, then add to pan. Continue to heat through until it thickens or reduces, creating a sauce. Add salt to taste. Serve over chicken.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Big Day
We had a long morning today, and the Babe was great. Today was allergy testing. When we left in the morning, I didn't tell her where we were going, although she was curious. I didn't want her to get upset before it was necessary. So when we pulled into the medical center's parking garage, she told me happily how she wanted to show the doctor her new purple watch (a beloved birthday gift from a friend). I suspect she thought we were seeing the ENT for a wound check, but we've been done seeing him for a while.
We entered through the parking garage onto a footbridge leading to the building. Once we reached the entrance to the building, the Babe told me how everyone was looking at her. Really? I asked her why she thought that. Her response, "because I'm so adorable". Clearly we've told her this a few times, as have others, and it stuck. Apparently modesty is not an issue here. I'm going to have to work on that.
As for the allergy testing, she was great. The pre-test exam and evaluation she handled like a trooper. The only complaint was when the doctor had to look in her ears, but for once, with a little persuasion, she cooperated. The worst part was the application of allergens for the skin test. They say its a mild prick, but holding your crying, screaming, wincing child is painful in itself. However, as soon as that was done, we distracted her with the bubbles. That's right- they gave her bubbles to blow inside. And one of the nurses spent the entire time doing them with her. The Babe was so happy, the nurse was truly entertained by her, and I could breath a temporary sigh of relief. So much better than last year when we had to walk the halls and keep grabbing her hands from scratching.
As for test results, not much has changed in a year. The same big allergens are there: dairy, eggs, wheat, rye, and barley. She also has some environmental allergies as well. Apple is a new one, but we can still continue with apple juice so long as it is pasteurized and we have no reaction (no raw apples though). On a positive note, cod fish popped up last year, but disappeared this year. We may be able to have fish again, but will have to try it out before its a definite. Some other foods still need to be tried out, but negative skin tests were positive signs. Based on her overall response, I have hope that in a few years we will start seeing some more disappear. This is the first time I walked out of the allergists more hopeful than sad. Exhausted, but hopeful.
We entered through the parking garage onto a footbridge leading to the building. Once we reached the entrance to the building, the Babe told me how everyone was looking at her. Really? I asked her why she thought that. Her response, "because I'm so adorable". Clearly we've told her this a few times, as have others, and it stuck. Apparently modesty is not an issue here. I'm going to have to work on that.
As for the allergy testing, she was great. The pre-test exam and evaluation she handled like a trooper. The only complaint was when the doctor had to look in her ears, but for once, with a little persuasion, she cooperated. The worst part was the application of allergens for the skin test. They say its a mild prick, but holding your crying, screaming, wincing child is painful in itself. However, as soon as that was done, we distracted her with the bubbles. That's right- they gave her bubbles to blow inside. And one of the nurses spent the entire time doing them with her. The Babe was so happy, the nurse was truly entertained by her, and I could breath a temporary sigh of relief. So much better than last year when we had to walk the halls and keep grabbing her hands from scratching.
As for test results, not much has changed in a year. The same big allergens are there: dairy, eggs, wheat, rye, and barley. She also has some environmental allergies as well. Apple is a new one, but we can still continue with apple juice so long as it is pasteurized and we have no reaction (no raw apples though). On a positive note, cod fish popped up last year, but disappeared this year. We may be able to have fish again, but will have to try it out before its a definite. Some other foods still need to be tried out, but negative skin tests were positive signs. Based on her overall response, I have hope that in a few years we will start seeing some more disappear. This is the first time I walked out of the allergists more hopeful than sad. Exhausted, but hopeful.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Topics of Conversation
Apparently there are little boundaries as to what are appropriate topics of conversation. Granted, I am nosy, and love talking about most subjects with most people. However, here's one that I'd rather not have. I really don't appreciate the cable service representative who was remotely testing my equipment asking me if I was having any more children. Oh, did I mention this was a phone call, he was in a foreign country, and apparently wanted to chat while we waited for the equipment test to go through. I didn't want to hear about how his wife left him and his sons six years ago, which he felt the need to tell me a few times. I didn't want to talk about anything, especially personal, with this odd man on the phone. So, while I don't take issue having this discussion with people I know, if I have just met you in a professional capacity, oh, and never set eyes on you, lets just talk about the weather!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Sweet Treat
While my husband and I may have many differences, one thing we share in common is a preference for cooler weather. I consider myself a snow baby, so while I enjoy aspects of summer, my favorite time of year is now through about February, just before it becomes completely gloomy and grey for a few months, until spring awakens. I like the smells in the air as fall descends, the changing colors of the foliage, wearing sweaters, going out into a chilly day to return into a warm home, and the list continues.
So today we enjoyed being outside with the Babe. While it was cool, it wasn't cold, and the sun was shining. We took a bit of a drive through some farmland, with our goal to pick some apples. This was a first for the Babe, and she was excited. We found a small orchard about twenty minutes from home, with several varieties of apples. It wasn't a huge orchard, but from a three year old's perspective there were a lot of trees. It was wonderful watching the Babe's excitement to pluck the apples from the trees, as well as watching the attention my husband was giving her as he would lift her up to find the perfect apple. While we spent less than an hour there, it was another "normal" activity, with minimal risk for our Allergy Babe. Now time to find some recipes to make use of our picked bounty.
So today we enjoyed being outside with the Babe. While it was cool, it wasn't cold, and the sun was shining. We took a bit of a drive through some farmland, with our goal to pick some apples. This was a first for the Babe, and she was excited. We found a small orchard about twenty minutes from home, with several varieties of apples. It wasn't a huge orchard, but from a three year old's perspective there were a lot of trees. It was wonderful watching the Babe's excitement to pluck the apples from the trees, as well as watching the attention my husband was giving her as he would lift her up to find the perfect apple. While we spent less than an hour there, it was another "normal" activity, with minimal risk for our Allergy Babe. Now time to find some recipes to make use of our picked bounty.
Friday, September 30, 2011
My Big Girl
Its been a while since I've posted anything, but so much has been going on that I don't know if I can narrow this down. First and foremost, the Babe turned three. She is now a big girl...well, to her she is a big girl, to me she's not a toddler anymore. We're distancing ourselves from two- you know, the terrible two's. Not that she doesn't have her moments: to test me, exhaust me, or just plain make me a bit crazy, but that is to be expected.
For a few months now the Babe has been excited about her birthday. In particular, her birthday party. She knew she wanted balloons, cake, candles, and decorations. When anyone asked her what she wanted for her birthday, as in a gift, she would start off by telling them purple. What else, they'd ask? Blue, orange, yellow, indigo, violet. Hmmm, apparently she wanted a colorful birthday.
While we've been invited to a few children's birthday parties, since the Babe's allergies, we haven't attended any. So, the Babe does not know what a children's birthday party is really like. In fact, the first thing everyone noticed at her birthday party was the noise. Our house isn't small, but it suddenly shrunk when you threw in some of her friends, their parents, and our relatives. And the Babe initially didn't like that, but grew to ignore the volume as she ran all over the place with the kids.
There were balloons, some minor decorations, cake and cupcakes, cookies, chips and dip, and fruit. After blowing out her candles and eating cake, I had an activity planned in our basement that was suitable for all ages. I was very proud of it too. The Babe likes to do projects using foam stickies, so I bought colored foam frames, a bunch of various foam stickies (dinosaurs, flower, planes and cars, ladybugs, etc.), and magnetic tape. This is where I was proud of my creativity. The kids could decorate a frame, I'd cut two strips of magnetic tape to apply to the frame's back, and then once they got them home their parents could just tape a picture to the frame, and voila- refrigerator art/picture frame.
Some kids were entertained by the project, others just wanted to play with her toys. So for a while the chaos remained in our basement, while others got to talk in more quieter surroundings upstairs. And then came gift opening time. Up to that point, everything was going along great. But alas, we can never have perfection. The Babe started coughing, and my husband and I warily watched with bated breath, not sure if she was having an allergic reaction to something, or if her asthma was kicking in. We stopped the gift opening, took her away, gave her the inhaler, and waited a few more minutes. We didn't give her Benadryl, but watched her, and let her resume gift opening. After a while she seemed ok, but that meant my husband and I were on allergy watch from that point forward.
She had a fabulous time at her party, and would like another one sometime soon. I am very happy she could enjoy her party, and have some normalcy. However, it was exhausting! I baked, I cleaned, I picked up. I can wait another year to do this again.
For a few months now the Babe has been excited about her birthday. In particular, her birthday party. She knew she wanted balloons, cake, candles, and decorations. When anyone asked her what she wanted for her birthday, as in a gift, she would start off by telling them purple. What else, they'd ask? Blue, orange, yellow, indigo, violet. Hmmm, apparently she wanted a colorful birthday.
While we've been invited to a few children's birthday parties, since the Babe's allergies, we haven't attended any. So, the Babe does not know what a children's birthday party is really like. In fact, the first thing everyone noticed at her birthday party was the noise. Our house isn't small, but it suddenly shrunk when you threw in some of her friends, their parents, and our relatives. And the Babe initially didn't like that, but grew to ignore the volume as she ran all over the place with the kids.
There were balloons, some minor decorations, cake and cupcakes, cookies, chips and dip, and fruit. After blowing out her candles and eating cake, I had an activity planned in our basement that was suitable for all ages. I was very proud of it too. The Babe likes to do projects using foam stickies, so I bought colored foam frames, a bunch of various foam stickies (dinosaurs, flower, planes and cars, ladybugs, etc.), and magnetic tape. This is where I was proud of my creativity. The kids could decorate a frame, I'd cut two strips of magnetic tape to apply to the frame's back, and then once they got them home their parents could just tape a picture to the frame, and voila- refrigerator art/picture frame.
Some kids were entertained by the project, others just wanted to play with her toys. So for a while the chaos remained in our basement, while others got to talk in more quieter surroundings upstairs. And then came gift opening time. Up to that point, everything was going along great. But alas, we can never have perfection. The Babe started coughing, and my husband and I warily watched with bated breath, not sure if she was having an allergic reaction to something, or if her asthma was kicking in. We stopped the gift opening, took her away, gave her the inhaler, and waited a few more minutes. We didn't give her Benadryl, but watched her, and let her resume gift opening. After a while she seemed ok, but that meant my husband and I were on allergy watch from that point forward.
She had a fabulous time at her party, and would like another one sometime soon. I am very happy she could enjoy her party, and have some normalcy. However, it was exhausting! I baked, I cleaned, I picked up. I can wait another year to do this again.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Lentil Soup
My husband has been enjoying the lentil soup I made a few weeks back. It made so much that I was able to freeze several portions. My in-laws are visiting, so for today I made a fresh batch for lunch. Now that I've made it a second time, I think it will be added to my repertoire. Its hearty because of the lentils and stew meat, although can be made vegan without the meat. If you make it meatless, it is a very inexpensive meal, with the addition of a fresh loaf of bread.
Lentil Soup
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1-2 Tbsp vegetable oil
1-1.5 lbs stew meat, cut up into thin pieces/slivers
1 tsp garlic powder
1 bay leaf
2 tsp ground ginger
1 Tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 package dried lentils
1 package washed spinach (6-9 oz)
9 1/2 cups water
Salt
1. Saute onions and carrots in oil until softened, about 10 minutes.
2. Add in stew meat, brown.
3. Add garlic, bay leaf, ginger, curry powder, and cumin. Stir. Add water and lentils. Stir.
4. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
5. Add in spinach, and gently stir as spinach wilts. Add in salt (about 1-2 tsp). Cook for another 30-45 minutes. Towards end of cooking, taste soup and add salt if necessary. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Lentil Soup
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1-2 Tbsp vegetable oil
1-1.5 lbs stew meat, cut up into thin pieces/slivers
1 tsp garlic powder
1 bay leaf
2 tsp ground ginger
1 Tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 package dried lentils
1 package washed spinach (6-9 oz)
9 1/2 cups water
Salt
1. Saute onions and carrots in oil until softened, about 10 minutes.
2. Add in stew meat, brown.
3. Add garlic, bay leaf, ginger, curry powder, and cumin. Stir. Add water and lentils. Stir.
4. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
5. Add in spinach, and gently stir as spinach wilts. Add in salt (about 1-2 tsp). Cook for another 30-45 minutes. Towards end of cooking, taste soup and add salt if necessary. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Black Gold (aka Coffee)
We finally returned to the gym this past week after not going all summer because the childcare program closed for the summer. Its great because the Babe gets to burn off some energy while being around someone other than me all day. I can workout or just sit and read a book. Don't worry, I worked out despite my desire not to. Hopefully this return to exercising will give me a much-needed boost of energy.
Many mornings I drink coffee just to start my day. Most of the time I use the same coffee maker, which uses coffee pods. There isn't much umph to that coffee despite being caffeinated. So, if I'm very tired, I may bring out a different coffee pot. Somehow we have acquired 3 functioning coffee makers, and each serves a different purpose. Our go-to, everyday coffee maker is the single cup maker that uses coffee pods. It taste great, is quick to make, but somehow doesn't have much kick. So when I need a little more umph (aka not much sleep the night before), I go to our other single cup maker that requires a filter and ground coffee. Only that one takes forever to brew a cup, and sometimes you get coffee grinds in your cup. And lastly, coffee maker number three is a more traditional, multi-cup maker that my husband bought a few years ago while out shopping by himself (please note, all coffee makers have been bought by or for my husband...see a trend?). Anyhow, yesterday afternoon I hit an energy slump and decided I needed to bring out the big guns. Out came coffee maker number three, and for 12 oz of coffee that I brewed, I was still alert late into the evening. We had company today so it made sense to keep out the bigger coffee pot. I suspect it may find a long-term home on my counter. So, exercise or caffeine, I should be hopping about here.
Many mornings I drink coffee just to start my day. Most of the time I use the same coffee maker, which uses coffee pods. There isn't much umph to that coffee despite being caffeinated. So, if I'm very tired, I may bring out a different coffee pot. Somehow we have acquired 3 functioning coffee makers, and each serves a different purpose. Our go-to, everyday coffee maker is the single cup maker that uses coffee pods. It taste great, is quick to make, but somehow doesn't have much kick. So when I need a little more umph (aka not much sleep the night before), I go to our other single cup maker that requires a filter and ground coffee. Only that one takes forever to brew a cup, and sometimes you get coffee grinds in your cup. And lastly, coffee maker number three is a more traditional, multi-cup maker that my husband bought a few years ago while out shopping by himself (please note, all coffee makers have been bought by or for my husband...see a trend?). Anyhow, yesterday afternoon I hit an energy slump and decided I needed to bring out the big guns. Out came coffee maker number three, and for 12 oz of coffee that I brewed, I was still alert late into the evening. We had company today so it made sense to keep out the bigger coffee pot. I suspect it may find a long-term home on my counter. So, exercise or caffeine, I should be hopping about here.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Good Morning!
In case you were worried after yesterday's post, I do not need this cup of coffee I'm drinking right now, other than for its warmth. Granted, its early in the day yet, but I got a good night's sleep. It helped that when the Babe woke at 3 a.m., my husband got her from her bed, changed her, and took her into our bed. He's been gone most of the week so wasn't any help with that, but the week prior he didn't get up for her either. So, while I knew what he was doing last night, I was able to just turn over and go back to sleep.
I also just came to the conclusion that the glass of water I keep next to my bed at night is an indicator of how well I sleep. If its fairly full in the morning, it was a good night (like last night). If its mostly empty, that means I had reason to wake frequently and drink from it. Brilliant epiphany, right?
I also just came to the conclusion that the glass of water I keep next to my bed at night is an indicator of how well I sleep. If its fairly full in the morning, it was a good night (like last night). If its mostly empty, that means I had reason to wake frequently and drink from it. Brilliant epiphany, right?
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Counting Down
Less than a week until my in-laws visit. I can't wait. No, that is not sarcasm. Can you hear my sigh of relief? I have had a week of incomplete, unsatisfactory sleep. I feel like I haven't slept in days. My parents dropped by yesterday and even offered to watch the Babe while I napped. Unfortunately, despite being extremely tired, I couldn't sleep. A missed opportunity, although I did try to take advantage of it.
It also didn't help that just before falling asleep last night (eyes shut, almost dreaming), the Babe announced she had to go potty. When it was time to put the diaper back on, she was goofing around, I told her to stand up, and instead of just standing up, she vaulted upright into my lower jaw, forcing lower teeth into upper teeth with my tongue in the middle, resulting in blood and pain on my part. Once we all finally got to sleep, I transferred her to her own bed, only to have her wake at 4 a.m. I went into her bed for 30-45 minutes, then returned to mine, and was out until I blearily noticed my husband getting ready for work this morning. I then set my alarm for an hour later since we had some service people coming. Approximately five minutes later (and after my husband had already left) the doorbell rang. One of the guys was told to come at 7:15 a.m. by his company instead of 9 a.m. So, I am sleep deprived, verging on cranky or angry depending on the moment you catch me. Hence, I cannot wait for my in-laws to visit.
When Papa and Gram come to visit, they usually spend a good chunk of their time on the floor playing with the Babe. I sit back, and enjoy watching them (or wander off to play on the computer or bake something uninterrupted or read a magazine, etc.). While they offer help in many ways, the best is their entertaining the Babe (and vice versa). Generally I try to get up before or at the same time as them to make sure they don't need anything (despite them being perfectly capable of fending for themselves). As of this moment, when all I want to do is sleep, I'm already thinking ahead to sleeping in in a few more days...if I can hold out that long.
It also didn't help that just before falling asleep last night (eyes shut, almost dreaming), the Babe announced she had to go potty. When it was time to put the diaper back on, she was goofing around, I told her to stand up, and instead of just standing up, she vaulted upright into my lower jaw, forcing lower teeth into upper teeth with my tongue in the middle, resulting in blood and pain on my part. Once we all finally got to sleep, I transferred her to her own bed, only to have her wake at 4 a.m. I went into her bed for 30-45 minutes, then returned to mine, and was out until I blearily noticed my husband getting ready for work this morning. I then set my alarm for an hour later since we had some service people coming. Approximately five minutes later (and after my husband had already left) the doorbell rang. One of the guys was told to come at 7:15 a.m. by his company instead of 9 a.m. So, I am sleep deprived, verging on cranky or angry depending on the moment you catch me. Hence, I cannot wait for my in-laws to visit.
When Papa and Gram come to visit, they usually spend a good chunk of their time on the floor playing with the Babe. I sit back, and enjoy watching them (or wander off to play on the computer or bake something uninterrupted or read a magazine, etc.). While they offer help in many ways, the best is their entertaining the Babe (and vice versa). Generally I try to get up before or at the same time as them to make sure they don't need anything (despite them being perfectly capable of fending for themselves). As of this moment, when all I want to do is sleep, I'm already thinking ahead to sleeping in in a few more days...if I can hold out that long.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Another Resource
Last night I went out all by myself. No, not a date or a girls night out. I attended a meeting of MOCHA, which is Mothers of Children Having Allergies. Its an Illinois based group, and I found out about it while looking some other stuff up last week. Its a great resource, and they meet every other month. Last night they had two physicians from Children's Memorial Hospital of Chicago present the latest in food allergy research.
Due to traffic, I got there just before the meeting started. I didn't have enough time to look at all the resources they had out, but they had a ton of informative flyers from other organizations, as well as a sampling of books related to living with allergies, cooking, and children's books. I sat next to a very nice man (the only one there initially), and we compared notes about our allergic children. There were probably at least thirty others there, including a few who work in the allergy clinic at Childrens.
The lecture itself was informative. They elaborated on a few studies regarding heated egg and milk studies, as well as some oral nut desensitization studies. While the studies were based on small test groups (not addressed during the lecture), there is some positive research in this growing field. It also sounds like there is a much larger study in progress regarding a Chinese herbal formula that may have some positive medicinal results. Unfortunately though any drug application would probably be in the distant future.
The meeting was valuable both on a social and educational level. While I was aware of some of these studies' results, it was good to be able to get more detailed answers on some of the findings and what went into the research. As for the group itself, its a place where I can meet other parents with similar experiences, as well as a group with extensive knowledge and resources pertaining to food allergies. This is what I've been looking for, and happy to have found it.
Due to traffic, I got there just before the meeting started. I didn't have enough time to look at all the resources they had out, but they had a ton of informative flyers from other organizations, as well as a sampling of books related to living with allergies, cooking, and children's books. I sat next to a very nice man (the only one there initially), and we compared notes about our allergic children. There were probably at least thirty others there, including a few who work in the allergy clinic at Childrens.
The lecture itself was informative. They elaborated on a few studies regarding heated egg and milk studies, as well as some oral nut desensitization studies. While the studies were based on small test groups (not addressed during the lecture), there is some positive research in this growing field. It also sounds like there is a much larger study in progress regarding a Chinese herbal formula that may have some positive medicinal results. Unfortunately though any drug application would probably be in the distant future.
The meeting was valuable both on a social and educational level. While I was aware of some of these studies' results, it was good to be able to get more detailed answers on some of the findings and what went into the research. As for the group itself, its a place where I can meet other parents with similar experiences, as well as a group with extensive knowledge and resources pertaining to food allergies. This is what I've been looking for, and happy to have found it.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Pizza Night
I definitely have been baking more lately. This week I made faux peanut butter cookies, wheat-free chocolate chip cookies, chocolate chip muffins (this morning), and a loaf of bread in my bread machine (yesterday). So today my husband asked if we could try making pizza. As soon as the Babe heard that, she was on board. She's been asking for pizza every so often. Since I had fake mozzarella cheese in my fridge and a pizza dough crust mix in my pantry, how could I say no? Well, when I finally realized I wanted to say no, it was too late, so I went ahead with it.
The pizza crust mix is by Bob's Red Mill. I used ground flax seed instead of eggs, but otherwise followed the instructions. Once it came time to spreading it out on the baking sheet, it had a kind of funny texture, not a tight dough. I had to wet my hands frequently to spread it across, but got it to fill the sheet. On top, I added jarred marinara, some fresh basil from my sister's garden, and topped it with Teese Vegan Mozzarella Cheese. The Babe was very excited and wanted it right away. Of course, the cheese trapped in heat, so we tried to get her to wait a bit, but she still ate it when it was hot. Overall, not bad. Granted, I wouldn't serve it to company, but we'll probably do it again. It was definitely better than my prior attempt with Bisquick and Daiya, and this fake cheese has not caused me any stomach pains. Next time I'll add some Italian seasoning to the dough, but otherwise I think we have a new treat. The Babe definitely enjoyed it. It was great to see her enjoy her mini pieces of pizza, especially as she's not a big sauce person. She kept asking for more cheese too. I'm hoping one day I can fulfill that request with the real thing, but in the meantime, we've got a nice alternative.
The pizza crust mix is by Bob's Red Mill. I used ground flax seed instead of eggs, but otherwise followed the instructions. Once it came time to spreading it out on the baking sheet, it had a kind of funny texture, not a tight dough. I had to wet my hands frequently to spread it across, but got it to fill the sheet. On top, I added jarred marinara, some fresh basil from my sister's garden, and topped it with Teese Vegan Mozzarella Cheese. The Babe was very excited and wanted it right away. Of course, the cheese trapped in heat, so we tried to get her to wait a bit, but she still ate it when it was hot. Overall, not bad. Granted, I wouldn't serve it to company, but we'll probably do it again. It was definitely better than my prior attempt with Bisquick and Daiya, and this fake cheese has not caused me any stomach pains. Next time I'll add some Italian seasoning to the dough, but otherwise I think we have a new treat. The Babe definitely enjoyed it. It was great to see her enjoy her mini pieces of pizza, especially as she's not a big sauce person. She kept asking for more cheese too. I'm hoping one day I can fulfill that request with the real thing, but in the meantime, we've got a nice alternative.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Reasons to Stay Vigilant
I've posted before about how we have to read labels on everything to make sure none of the Babe's allergens are in food or home products. Well here are two prime examples of why we need to remain vigilant.
The Babe has beautiful curls halfway down her back. Well, some are halfway, and some are tightly kinked up in one big knot at the back of her head. She doesn't like her hair combed or brushed, and won't let me try to use a detangler (although I'm afraid to try any new chemical). Well a friend who is a former hair stylist suggested applying some hair conditioner, and letting it sit, then try to pick out the tangles. Here's the reason we need to stay vigilant. I found a children's hair care brand online sold at a major beauty retailer. I emailed the company, listed the Babe's allergens, and asked if the detangler or conditioner had it in them. I'm not seeking any trade secrets, so figured its better to tell them the ingredients and let them say yes or no. Well, they were very nice in their reply, but their products contain wheat and gluten. Hence, we won't be using their product. She said to check back in a year, because they are looking into changing their ingredients due to allergies. As I said, very nice company, just sorry we can't use their product.
Here's the worst example of the two. This information was posted on a few sites, include the Facebook page, "Kids With Food Allergies". Apparently one major store's house brand children's ibuprofen has listed on its label that its gluten free. That's great. What's not great is that on the list of actual drug ingredients, the very last ingredient is whey protein concentrate. Whey is a milk derivative. Milk is a potentially lethal ingredient for my child. Hence, if I didn't read labels or became aware of labels like this, we'd be in the ER for simply treating a fever with a reputable pharmaceutical. So, if you think I'm crazy because I worry about wearing hand lotion or what might be in a children's vitamin, I hope you realize I'm really not.
The Babe has beautiful curls halfway down her back. Well, some are halfway, and some are tightly kinked up in one big knot at the back of her head. She doesn't like her hair combed or brushed, and won't let me try to use a detangler (although I'm afraid to try any new chemical). Well a friend who is a former hair stylist suggested applying some hair conditioner, and letting it sit, then try to pick out the tangles. Here's the reason we need to stay vigilant. I found a children's hair care brand online sold at a major beauty retailer. I emailed the company, listed the Babe's allergens, and asked if the detangler or conditioner had it in them. I'm not seeking any trade secrets, so figured its better to tell them the ingredients and let them say yes or no. Well, they were very nice in their reply, but their products contain wheat and gluten. Hence, we won't be using their product. She said to check back in a year, because they are looking into changing their ingredients due to allergies. As I said, very nice company, just sorry we can't use their product.
Here's the worst example of the two. This information was posted on a few sites, include the Facebook page, "Kids With Food Allergies". Apparently one major store's house brand children's ibuprofen has listed on its label that its gluten free. That's great. What's not great is that on the list of actual drug ingredients, the very last ingredient is whey protein concentrate. Whey is a milk derivative. Milk is a potentially lethal ingredient for my child. Hence, if I didn't read labels or became aware of labels like this, we'd be in the ER for simply treating a fever with a reputable pharmaceutical. So, if you think I'm crazy because I worry about wearing hand lotion or what might be in a children's vitamin, I hope you realize I'm really not.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Ode to a Kitchen Appliance
Woe is me! I had to throw out an appliance. That was after I had to throw out an entire pot of soup that I was really looking forward to. I've been recollecting a wonderful soup I had years ago while having lunch out with my mother. It was some kind of creamy pea soup. Trying to find a recipe for it online, it may have be an English Pea Soup. It was green, creamy, flavorful, and probably one of the best things I've had in a restaurant. So I decided to attempt something of the sort tonight. I sauteed leeks and onions, threw in chicken stock, frozen green peas, and some diced potato. It was coming along, and just needed to be pureed. I didn't know why I kept hearing some crunching noises. The potatoes should have been cooked through. I sampled, and it needed to be creamed some more. More crunching noises. Alas, the plastic petals surrounding the blade on my immersion blender had somehow cracked, and one was gone and another half off. As I was not making puree of plastic soup for dinner, bye-bye to the pot of green soup that resembled baby food. I don't think my husband is too upset at this loss (other than the waste of time and money). Fear not, for I shall replace the stick blender very soon and will attempt this once more.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Use the Other One
Lately the Babe has had some funny or surprising comments that have required immediate phone calls to my husband at work or her grandparents because they must be shared as soon as possible. This morning has already required such a call.
She was watching an episode of Phineas and Ferb, and saying her leg was broken (She likes to jump heartily to the opening title sequence). So after a while, we were ready to move to the kitchen table for something to eat. Since her leg was bothering her, I gave her a piggy back ride to the table. Once there, she again repeated her tale of woe, that her leg was broken. I sympathetically told her that I guess we couldn't play any soccer later. She immediately replied, "Well, I can kick the ball with my other leg." Great problem solving!
She was watching an episode of Phineas and Ferb, and saying her leg was broken (She likes to jump heartily to the opening title sequence). So after a while, we were ready to move to the kitchen table for something to eat. Since her leg was bothering her, I gave her a piggy back ride to the table. Once there, she again repeated her tale of woe, that her leg was broken. I sympathetically told her that I guess we couldn't play any soccer later. She immediately replied, "Well, I can kick the ball with my other leg." Great problem solving!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Today's Happenings
Apparently this whole potty training things isn't a fluke. Granted, she didn't want to go on the potty until this afternoon because she was so busy watching her shows in the morning, and then entertaining or being entertained by her grandparents. However, once she remembered it existed, she kept going, and going, and going. Please note though, it will probably be a while before she does anything more than daytime peeing on the potty. She has outright told me when the moment arose that she will not poop on the potty (sorry if TMI). This is a good start though.
And apparently the cooking and baking bug has re-bitten me. Yesterday I made biscuits using the Gluten Free Bisquick for the first time. Substituting ground flax seed for eggs and Earth Balance Buttery Spread for the butter, they came out pretty good. Today I again used the Bisquick, but followed Betty Crocker's recipe for a Cinnamon Streussel Coffee Cake. Although the topping was partially dry, overall it had a good flavor and texture.
As for cooking, whenever I have company it means I get a real meal for lunch, versus scraps or odds and ends. So for today, lunch was chicken cooked in a sauce of orange marmalade (first slightly dissolved in microwave) with tamari (wheatless soy sauce), a spinach salad with mandarin oranges, slivered carrots, and sunflower seeds, and rice. Tonight's dinner is a bit of a mix. The Babe is having an ear of corn, and if she opts to, leftover chicken. I'm having a soup I just made. Its a lentil spinach soup with beef. I never make soup using beef, so this should be interesting. It also calls for what I consider Middle Eastern or Indian spices. It is definitely hearty between the beef and lentil. If its good, I may post the recipe. Now, time to eat!
And apparently the cooking and baking bug has re-bitten me. Yesterday I made biscuits using the Gluten Free Bisquick for the first time. Substituting ground flax seed for eggs and Earth Balance Buttery Spread for the butter, they came out pretty good. Today I again used the Bisquick, but followed Betty Crocker's recipe for a Cinnamon Streussel Coffee Cake. Although the topping was partially dry, overall it had a good flavor and texture.
As for cooking, whenever I have company it means I get a real meal for lunch, versus scraps or odds and ends. So for today, lunch was chicken cooked in a sauce of orange marmalade (first slightly dissolved in microwave) with tamari (wheatless soy sauce), a spinach salad with mandarin oranges, slivered carrots, and sunflower seeds, and rice. Tonight's dinner is a bit of a mix. The Babe is having an ear of corn, and if she opts to, leftover chicken. I'm having a soup I just made. Its a lentil spinach soup with beef. I never make soup using beef, so this should be interesting. It also calls for what I consider Middle Eastern or Indian spices. It is definitely hearty between the beef and lentil. If its good, I may post the recipe. Now, time to eat!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Wiped Out
Exciting news, but I am wiped out! Yesterday afternoon, since I was running out of regular diapers, I put the Babe in a pull-up. She didn't want her pants back on, so no big deal. An hour or two later, she tells me, "Mommy, I have to go pee-pee!" and goes running across the house to the bathroom. Well, I'm certainly not going to say no to that. Onto the toilet she goes, she chants, "Go, C___, Go!", and a minute later she did it! She was thrilled, as was I. Forty minutes later, she did it all over again. We tried a few more times at my urging, but it wasn't until two hours later that she again made the announcement that she had to go, and went running. We had three successful potty trips last night. all instigated by the Babe.
Today, we're apparently on a roll again. Just before we went out this morning, I put her in a pull-up. It was dry when we got home. Then, a little while later, off she went running. In the past hour, she's done this four times with success (five as I type this). I'm already tired from the lifting onto the toilet, off, and up for handwashing, but I will not impede this great process. Go, C, Go!
Today, we're apparently on a roll again. Just before we went out this morning, I put her in a pull-up. It was dry when we got home. Then, a little while later, off she went running. In the past hour, she's done this four times with success (five as I type this). I'm already tired from the lifting onto the toilet, off, and up for handwashing, but I will not impede this great process. Go, C, Go!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Musings
I really wanted Chocolate tonight, but didn't want to bake (or clean up anything else). Since I wanted something warm to drink, I made myself a cup of cocoa. Most people I know probably only make it with the instant packets, but those are not allergy safe for us. So, with a cup of Enriched Vanilla soy milk, some Hershey's cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract, I now have a nice warm cup of chocolate.
I may be having a winter drink, but we've had gorgeous end of summer/beginning of fall weather today. This afternoon we took a drive with the Babe, and then stopped by a large local grocery store that has a great selection of, well, just about everything. While looking at some gluten free baking mixes in the gluten free aisle, we struck up a conversation with one woman, and soon another joined in. Probably because most people are in that section of the store for a special reason, you can't help but chatting up which mix is better, or what sensitivity/allergy/illness you or a relative has. Its nice, because no where else in our community have I seen that opportunity to arise, to share our stories. Rather, its me explaining why the Babe can't touch this or do that because of the risk of something. Here we all had something familiar, and understood. I can get that community on the internet through various groups I've found, but its nice to have a face to face discussion.
And speaking of community, its been interesting to see how people are handling the anticipated hurricane on the east coast. What has been brought up by a few groups that I follow online are how to prepare if you are coping with food allergies. Most parents have to cook or bake special for their food allergic child (or adult). What would you stock-pile? My list, based on what the Babe would eat, would probably be cereal, soy milk, fresh fruits and vegetables, and potato chips. Long term without refrigeration and cooking abilities would be devastating. So hopefully the predictions are off, and any power outages out east will be brief. In the meantime, I will be thankful for what we have, and remember that my list of complaints are insignificant compared to what others are coping with tonight.
I may be having a winter drink, but we've had gorgeous end of summer/beginning of fall weather today. This afternoon we took a drive with the Babe, and then stopped by a large local grocery store that has a great selection of, well, just about everything. While looking at some gluten free baking mixes in the gluten free aisle, we struck up a conversation with one woman, and soon another joined in. Probably because most people are in that section of the store for a special reason, you can't help but chatting up which mix is better, or what sensitivity/allergy/illness you or a relative has. Its nice, because no where else in our community have I seen that opportunity to arise, to share our stories. Rather, its me explaining why the Babe can't touch this or do that because of the risk of something. Here we all had something familiar, and understood. I can get that community on the internet through various groups I've found, but its nice to have a face to face discussion.
And speaking of community, its been interesting to see how people are handling the anticipated hurricane on the east coast. What has been brought up by a few groups that I follow online are how to prepare if you are coping with food allergies. Most parents have to cook or bake special for their food allergic child (or adult). What would you stock-pile? My list, based on what the Babe would eat, would probably be cereal, soy milk, fresh fruits and vegetables, and potato chips. Long term without refrigeration and cooking abilities would be devastating. So hopefully the predictions are off, and any power outages out east will be brief. In the meantime, I will be thankful for what we have, and remember that my list of complaints are insignificant compared to what others are coping with tonight.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Change of Season
My internal clock must be telling me something. I've been itching to make soup and bread and other baked goods for a week or two now. I've also been starting to look forward to wearing sweaters. Either I'm planning to pack on some pounds, or fall is approaching.
Today I took the Babe to a nearby Farmer's Market and picked up a monster of a zucchini. It was about two feet in length, and called to me, "bake me in bread". Part one of my day's workout involved grating by hand half of that zucchini. I followed Bob's Red Mill's recipe, substituting flax seed for the eggs, and now have several mini loaves on my counter top. Hopefully I won't be eating it all or else I'll be hiding behind some sweaters very fast.
My second workout had many benefits. The Babe and I played soccer, and I made her occasionally chase me and the ball. Rather than just kicking it back and forth, we got some running in. She got fresh air, some vitamin D, and a little exercise, as did I. The other benefit is she is now napping, something she has not done in weeks. I'm extremely thrilled here. While she's sleeping, I am cooking dinner. The rest of that zucchini just got tossed in some homemade vegetable soup that's simmering away. Its a very fall-ish dinner between the hearty soup and oven baked chicken. That's ok, my stomach apparently knows no season. Hopefully I can control my portions a bit so I can hold off on wearing those sweaters, though.
Today I took the Babe to a nearby Farmer's Market and picked up a monster of a zucchini. It was about two feet in length, and called to me, "bake me in bread". Part one of my day's workout involved grating by hand half of that zucchini. I followed Bob's Red Mill's recipe, substituting flax seed for the eggs, and now have several mini loaves on my counter top. Hopefully I won't be eating it all or else I'll be hiding behind some sweaters very fast.
My second workout had many benefits. The Babe and I played soccer, and I made her occasionally chase me and the ball. Rather than just kicking it back and forth, we got some running in. She got fresh air, some vitamin D, and a little exercise, as did I. The other benefit is she is now napping, something she has not done in weeks. I'm extremely thrilled here. While she's sleeping, I am cooking dinner. The rest of that zucchini just got tossed in some homemade vegetable soup that's simmering away. Its a very fall-ish dinner between the hearty soup and oven baked chicken. That's ok, my stomach apparently knows no season. Hopefully I can control my portions a bit so I can hold off on wearing those sweaters, though.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Kickin' It
We have a new activity that the Babe is enjoying. She is loving to play soccer. We have a small ball that resembles a soccer ball that we've been kicking around outside for the past few days. She is so cute as she runs with her arms pumping to go kick the ball. Today it looked like she picked up a new move, stopping, and kicking the ball behind her.
This is great. A minimal contact sport that doesn't require hand contact to any of the equipment. Perfect! She's also been working on this with a large beach ball in our basement. Thankfully there isn't much she can damage, and has a ton of fun kicking it at the wall or us. The ball may have met its match, so we need to go buy a new one. My husband thought he accomplished that task yesterday, except he brought home a 48 inch ginormous beach ball. It didn't register that this would blow up to be bigger than the Babe. Its still not fully blown up because while we are both filled with a lot of hot air, not quite enough to get it filled up in an hour. This is a good thing, because the ball may mysteriously disappear very soon.
For now, we will try to take advantage of the cooling down summer weather. Currently the Babe and her Daddy have gone to look at the boats by the lake, while I take a little break. When its just the two of them, we have come up with a new solution to how to carry her meds, since my husband would look a little funny carrying my extremely large purse. The Babe carries her backpack that is pink and purple and looks like a teddy bear. She loves to carry it, and this way she has everything she needs with her. This is a sign of the future too, because one day it will be her responsibility to carry her medication with her. However, when she's with me, I'll always plan to have whatever she needs, in more ways than one.
This is great. A minimal contact sport that doesn't require hand contact to any of the equipment. Perfect! She's also been working on this with a large beach ball in our basement. Thankfully there isn't much she can damage, and has a ton of fun kicking it at the wall or us. The ball may have met its match, so we need to go buy a new one. My husband thought he accomplished that task yesterday, except he brought home a 48 inch ginormous beach ball. It didn't register that this would blow up to be bigger than the Babe. Its still not fully blown up because while we are both filled with a lot of hot air, not quite enough to get it filled up in an hour. This is a good thing, because the ball may mysteriously disappear very soon.
For now, we will try to take advantage of the cooling down summer weather. Currently the Babe and her Daddy have gone to look at the boats by the lake, while I take a little break. When its just the two of them, we have come up with a new solution to how to carry her meds, since my husband would look a little funny carrying my extremely large purse. The Babe carries her backpack that is pink and purple and looks like a teddy bear. She loves to carry it, and this way she has everything she needs with her. This is a sign of the future too, because one day it will be her responsibility to carry her medication with her. However, when she's with me, I'll always plan to have whatever she needs, in more ways than one.
Friday, August 19, 2011
How to Give Your Mother a Heart Attack
For the parent of a food allergic child, we hover, we watch, we worry. Ok, that's true for a lot of parents, but we have more cause. So my little cutie thinks its hilarious to make certain noises and then grab a drink of water. She doesn't know why this may concern me, but she thinks its funny.
I just gave her a brownie cupcake with chocolate chips in it. She had one yesterday and was just fine. She seemed fine just a few minutes ago, until she decided to spit out half of it. Made me wonder why. Then, we moved onto the family room and asked her to pick up her blocks. Suddenly she's making a cat-with-a-hairball sound (or what I believe that sound would be). I ask if she's ok, she looks like she's gagging. I ask if she wants water and she says yes. Worried that she's reacting to the snack, she has some water, and sighs and says she's just fine. Makes the cat noise again, and she refills her glass (her favorite game lately is to fill up her cup from the water dispenser in the fridge). Then she smiles with a big twinkle in her eye, and repeats. Now she's happily sitting with her water cup and a straw blowing bubbles. Oh, and has apparently made herself soaking wet.
I just gave her a brownie cupcake with chocolate chips in it. She had one yesterday and was just fine. She seemed fine just a few minutes ago, until she decided to spit out half of it. Made me wonder why. Then, we moved onto the family room and asked her to pick up her blocks. Suddenly she's making a cat-with-a-hairball sound (or what I believe that sound would be). I ask if she's ok, she looks like she's gagging. I ask if she wants water and she says yes. Worried that she's reacting to the snack, she has some water, and sighs and says she's just fine. Makes the cat noise again, and she refills her glass (her favorite game lately is to fill up her cup from the water dispenser in the fridge). Then she smiles with a big twinkle in her eye, and repeats. Now she's happily sitting with her water cup and a straw blowing bubbles. Oh, and has apparently made herself soaking wet.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Bribes
To our various family members who have offered the Babe the "bribe" of big girl underpants should she use the potty, it won't work. She is not bribeable. Ok, that's probably not entirely true. You'll just have to pick something else to entice her if you plan to bribe her. Why do I say this? Because I have tried. I had bought her underpants a few months ago, and have offered them to her on various occasions. This morning I went so far as to put a pair on her, planning to then add the overpants. Well, the Babe informed me that she does not like underpants, and didn't want to wear them. She is a rock- the potty video, the pull-up diapers, the big girl underpants- nothing seems to be working...yet. In fact, she sat happily on the potty today a few times, but nothing happened. She even tells me that she'll make me soooo happy if she pees on the potty. Ok, I didn't say this to her, she just knows it. Granted, I don't want her to associate going to the bathroom with making her parents happy, because we'll have big problems come her teen years. I'm trying not to push her too hard, but the clock is ticking. I'm considering buying a real potty, not just the seat you put on top of the toilet. To me that is the ultimate concession- oh, the horror! I haven't caved yet. We'll see what the next few days bring.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Ouch!
I have found a new manner of parent abuse- forcing me to watch "Elmo's Potty Time" again. I only bought the DVD yesterday, and we are now on our fifth viewing. Oh, the pain! Granted, its great for a toddler. Cute and fun. However, I'm not a fan of repeatedly hearing potty terms over and over again. So after this viewing, its going off.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Sassy girl
Conversation overheard between my husband and daughter tonight:
"You need to start picking up after yourself." (in reference to pile of toys scattered in family room).
"I can't hear you!"
"Then take your fingers out of your ears!"
As a friend of my parents has said, she has a mouth on her. I generally think she's cute, but if we're not careful, cute can turn into something else. For now, since I wasn't the one directing her to do something, I can laugh...in another room so as not to encourage her.
"You need to start picking up after yourself." (in reference to pile of toys scattered in family room).
"I can't hear you!"
"Then take your fingers out of your ears!"
As a friend of my parents has said, she has a mouth on her. I generally think she's cute, but if we're not careful, cute can turn into something else. For now, since I wasn't the one directing her to do something, I can laugh...in another room so as not to encourage her.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Deciphering a Cough
For most parents, a cough is just a cough. It could mean a little dust is in the air or the start of a cold, but nothing to hover over and ponder deeply. For us, a cough can have many meanings, and deciphering it is the challenge.
The Babe is more prone to chest colds due to her allergies and asthma. Her having a cold isn't the first thing that crosses our minds though when she starts to cough. First, is she choking on something? If she's choking, is it from something irritating her throat or is it the start of an allergic reaction? Next, if she's not choking and can talk, but keeps coughing, is it the start of an allergic reaction or her asthma? If you see a running thread here, we always question if she's having an allergic reaction. A cold or asthma come into concern second.
Lately I suspect her asthma is starting to kick up. I think humidity has been triggering it when we've gone out. My husband though keeps wanting to pin it on her allergies. Either way, it looks like I will now be carrying her inhaler with us wherever we go (and its not just a little inhaler, but the chamber used with it that's about a foot long). So, my traveling pharmacy continues to grow.
The Babe is more prone to chest colds due to her allergies and asthma. Her having a cold isn't the first thing that crosses our minds though when she starts to cough. First, is she choking on something? If she's choking, is it from something irritating her throat or is it the start of an allergic reaction? Next, if she's not choking and can talk, but keeps coughing, is it the start of an allergic reaction or her asthma? If you see a running thread here, we always question if she's having an allergic reaction. A cold or asthma come into concern second.
Lately I suspect her asthma is starting to kick up. I think humidity has been triggering it when we've gone out. My husband though keeps wanting to pin it on her allergies. Either way, it looks like I will now be carrying her inhaler with us wherever we go (and its not just a little inhaler, but the chamber used with it that's about a foot long). So, my traveling pharmacy continues to grow.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Early Riser
The Babe is generally not an early riser, unless you count her waking up at 2 a.m. calling for me. So last night was wonderful because I got her to bed before 10 p.m., and not a peep during the night. But alas, the morning came early in our house. The Babe usually doesn't wake up until sometime between 8 and 9:30 a.m. At about 6:15 a.m. she called for me. Hoping she'd go back to sleep if I went into her bed, or offered a drink, I was out of luck. She opened her blind to look outside, and begged for t.v. Well, I'm sticking to that "no t.v. before 8 a.m." rule. After trying to con her into going back to sleep in my bed, she then brushed her teeth with Daddy while he got ready for work (no, I didn't hide in bed, I was standing right next to her). Eventually we came downstairs.
So what did we do after we ate? I baked, of course! It was on my agenda for the morning, and it didn't matter what time. So I have blondies baking that we will be taking to my grandmother's home later today. The following is my recipe, adapted from Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook (1996).
Blondies
2 cups packed golden brown sugar
10 Tbsp. Earth Balance Buttery sticks (or other non-dairy margarine)
2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free All Purpose Flour
1/2 tsp xanthan gum
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (non-dairy)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 13x9x2 baking pan.
2. Combine 2 tbsp. ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp. water. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt margarine. Then add brown sugar, stir constantly until margarine dissolves. Then remove pan from heat.
4. Stir in flaxseed-water mixture into pan. Stir in vanilla. Gradually stir in flour, xanthan gum, baking powder and baking soda, until fully combined.
5. Pour mixture into pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips across top. Bake for about 30 minutes or until done.
Let cool slightly, then cut into bars.
So what did we do after we ate? I baked, of course! It was on my agenda for the morning, and it didn't matter what time. So I have blondies baking that we will be taking to my grandmother's home later today. The following is my recipe, adapted from Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook (1996).
Blondies
2 cups packed golden brown sugar
10 Tbsp. Earth Balance Buttery sticks (or other non-dairy margarine)
2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free All Purpose Flour
1/2 tsp xanthan gum
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (non-dairy)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 13x9x2 baking pan.
2. Combine 2 tbsp. ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp. water. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt margarine. Then add brown sugar, stir constantly until margarine dissolves. Then remove pan from heat.
4. Stir in flaxseed-water mixture into pan. Stir in vanilla. Gradually stir in flour, xanthan gum, baking powder and baking soda, until fully combined.
5. Pour mixture into pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips across top. Bake for about 30 minutes or until done.
Let cool slightly, then cut into bars.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Houseguests
I'm at times a planner, but that is not always a good thing. Last weekend we had houseguests, and I was very pleasantly surprised by how the visit went. The reason was that one of our guests is just a few months older than the Babe and a boy. I negatively anticipated climbing and jumping and fighting over toys. Boy, was I wrong. In fact, if either child showed any bad behavior, it was the Babe. We went to a museum with an elevator and she wanted to push the buttons to call the elevator and for the floors, unwilling to take turns. And each time she'd practically burst into tears if she didn't get her way. Otherwise, for most of the visit they played contentedly with each other or near each other. When he took a nap, she would soon take a nap. It was great. If only all his good habits would have rubbed off- naps, early bedtimes, eating most of the meals. Unfortunately, since they've left I haven't been getting her to nap, despite trying to repeat what we did while they were here.
Another thing this visit reminded me of is that we have some very thoughtful friends. Our close friends and family who we have been able to get together with are very mindful of the Babe's allergies. No one grumbles when we request hand washing. Everyone shows concern about what they might eat just before visiting because they will be coming into contact with the Babe. What brought this to mind with this visit was that when we went to the museum with our friends, they left the diaper bag behind and put all necessities in a large ziplock bag, just in case there were any prior food remnants on his diaper bag. I didn't ask them too, I didn't even think of it. They just did it.
While two toddlers are exhausting, the weekend was a lot of fun. It was nice to watch the kids play, and for the adults to catch up. Now we're back to our quiet routine. Well, with a toddler, not so quiet.
Another thing this visit reminded me of is that we have some very thoughtful friends. Our close friends and family who we have been able to get together with are very mindful of the Babe's allergies. No one grumbles when we request hand washing. Everyone shows concern about what they might eat just before visiting because they will be coming into contact with the Babe. What brought this to mind with this visit was that when we went to the museum with our friends, they left the diaper bag behind and put all necessities in a large ziplock bag, just in case there were any prior food remnants on his diaper bag. I didn't ask them too, I didn't even think of it. They just did it.
While two toddlers are exhausting, the weekend was a lot of fun. It was nice to watch the kids play, and for the adults to catch up. Now we're back to our quiet routine. Well, with a toddler, not so quiet.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
A Bad Word
Sometimes I wonder if I'm raising a teenager or a toddler. She has started to say something that I told her is not good, and she has to stop saying it. What is so bad? Those words that I know I frequently uttered as a teenager, "I'm bored" or "That's boring". Yesterday we were outside blowing bubbles, and between the bubbles she kept saying it. I have no idea why because she loves to do that, and its not an everyday activity. She has an amazing vocabulary, with great sentence structure and has great comments in context. I want her to continue to enjoy and explore. I don't think she was actually bored, but she said it so sincerely. So I'm going to treat those phrases as bad words, and work on teaching her other things to say should she mention the dreaded "b" word!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Dinosaurs
After having one of the longest colds I can recall, I have begun feeling guilty that I haven't been doing enough with the Babe. This summer has not been one filled with playdates and playgrounds. When we moved to this area last August, I had a list of kid-friendly (and allergy-safe) places we could visit. I didn't think we'd do it all at once, but there were plenty of museums and parks to find entertainment. Yesterday we finally went to one of those places on the list. It is the Dinosaur Discovery Museum located in Kenosha, Wisconsin. It sounds much grander than it is, but it is a nice little museum located near the lakefront, and it is free. Who can do better than that?
Before we went, I asked her if she wanted to go see the dinosaurs. No, she is of course afraid of dinosaurs. However, when she mentioned seeing the dinosaur fossils she became very excited. Somehow, she has made the distinction in her head that dinosaurs=scary big animals, dinosaur fossils= fun. How does a two-year-old know the difference? Television, of course. There's an animated children's show called "Dinosaur Train" that has dinosaurs roaming different time periods. Then there were some other programs that had visits to museums where they saw dinosaurs and fossils. So to her there is a definite distinction between dinosaurs and dinosaur fossils.
At the museum, she enjoyed the exhibit. We perhaps spent ten minutes looking at the display (one large room of about 20 dinosaurs), then to another area where she could color, and the finale was the gift shop. Because to me, no museum visit is worthwhile without a visit to the gift shop. We probably spent more time getting to and from the museum, but it was worth the trip. And as we left, the Babe confirmed that she was a "super-de-duper good girl", which I can only agree.
Before we went, I asked her if she wanted to go see the dinosaurs. No, she is of course afraid of dinosaurs. However, when she mentioned seeing the dinosaur fossils she became very excited. Somehow, she has made the distinction in her head that dinosaurs=scary big animals, dinosaur fossils= fun. How does a two-year-old know the difference? Television, of course. There's an animated children's show called "Dinosaur Train" that has dinosaurs roaming different time periods. Then there were some other programs that had visits to museums where they saw dinosaurs and fossils. So to her there is a definite distinction between dinosaurs and dinosaur fossils.
At the museum, she enjoyed the exhibit. We perhaps spent ten minutes looking at the display (one large room of about 20 dinosaurs), then to another area where she could color, and the finale was the gift shop. Because to me, no museum visit is worthwhile without a visit to the gift shop. We probably spent more time getting to and from the museum, but it was worth the trip. And as we left, the Babe confirmed that she was a "super-de-duper good girl", which I can only agree.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
You Want What?!
The other day my husband and the Babe were playing in our basement while I rested. When they came up, he had her tell me her latest. She said she wants a pet, she wants a hedgehog. A what?! That's right, she wants a hedgehog. She's not yet three, and I have no idea how she has ever seen a hedgehog (in person or on t.v.), let alone knows the animal's name. I can't recall any of the children's programming mentioning one, although I do happen to zone out to a lot of them. Now that I'm thinking about it, could Zaboomafoo or the Wild Kratt's had one? Possibly, but still don't know why she would want one. So, after this latest revelation, a few days later, our sitter was over. She was so excited that the Babe told her this, because apparently once upon a time our sitter had a pet hedgehog. I kid you not. So then I wondered if she had told the Babe this, and somehow the Babe thought this would be fun. But no, no mention of it. The only person I know who has had a hedgehog did not put the idea in the Babe's head. Its been several days now, and she is still asking for one. Courtesy of our sitter, I suspect I know where I could get one, but its not going to happen! At this young age, I'm sure the Babe will latch onto wanting something else in the near future that will replace this current request, and no harm will come to us or a hedgehog.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Soup Success
Get those violins ready.... I had to make dinner tonight. For some reason, I had the illusion I was getting better for about 2-3 hours after taking my newly prescribed antibiotic. It was downhill from there. However, during the temporary reprieve from the worst of my symptoms, I put together a pot of chicken soup with vegetables. The best part of dinner was watching the Babe eat (the soup was good, too). That's right- she actually ate dinner. Not only did she eat the noodles I made, she ate some chicken, she had some broth that I put in a small bowl separately, and shocker of shockers, she ate several pieces of cooked carrots. Truly a success. Now if I dare attempt to repeat this meal in the next fourteen days I highly doubt any of this will happen again. However, for now I will enjoy the fact that she ate well and ate a variety. And now, I am off to lay down.
Doctor's Visit
Apparently a doctor's office can be fun...if you're not the patient! Normally the Babe repeatedly tells us why she doesn't want to go to a hospital, or cries at the mere sight of an examining table. Today I had to go to the doctor for this cold that just won't go away. While waiting, I was sitting on the paper covered table and the Babe had a very strong desire to sit up there with me. If it was for her, just the sound of the paper crinkling will set her off in hysterics. Today, she was happy to sit in the chairs, do her version of ballet in the waiting room, and climb up onto the table. And she certainly had no shyness with the cute doctor. Of course, when we got home she told me how she was a good girl at the hospital. And yes, she was a good girl.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Time for a Plan
Some people have sick houses, I think I have a fat house. Ok, not a fat house, but a house that is contributing to our weight issues. With each home, we learn something different about what design, layout, and products are favorable to how we live. This house is great, except for the easy access to our pantry. We have a somewhat open layout, so our kitchen leads to where the table is, and off of that is our family room where we spend most of our time. Its one big open area. We can sit at our table and watch t.v., or just lean outside the door of our pantry while snagging some chips. This is probably how I've gained about ten pounds since moving into our house. That's right, blame the house, not my inability to not eat chips or second portions of dinner. Our last house had a great closet in the laundry room that I utilized as a pantry. So if I wanted a snack that didn't come from the fridge, I had to walk across the hall, open the laundry room door, and dig. The less convenient, the less likely I was to snack.
So now I'm trying to find something to motivate me to stop eating and start moving. I haven't quite figured it out yet, other than the fact that I don't like the number on the scale. Once I get over this cold, I hope to start using the treadmill again (see the hidden excuse to delay). As for diet, its impossible not to have chips in the house because of the Babe. I just have to stop eating them too. While I can't have egg white omelets or yogurt, I can still have salads and lean poultry. Time to make a plan. I like lists, I just need to stick to them.
So now I'm trying to find something to motivate me to stop eating and start moving. I haven't quite figured it out yet, other than the fact that I don't like the number on the scale. Once I get over this cold, I hope to start using the treadmill again (see the hidden excuse to delay). As for diet, its impossible not to have chips in the house because of the Babe. I just have to stop eating them too. While I can't have egg white omelets or yogurt, I can still have salads and lean poultry. Time to make a plan. I like lists, I just need to stick to them.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
An Offer I Can't Refuse
I went to bed last night looking forward to a nap today. Silly, but as I mentioned yesterday, I am sick. Not terribly sick, just annoyingly sick. And somehow either due to my current symptoms, or the effects of the OTC cold medicine I've been taking, I can't sleep fully through the night. So I've been up since 1 a.m. The reason I am looking forward to a nap, besides my failure to sleep during the night, is my husband made a most generous offer to me just before we went to bed. Saturdays we may do some things together, but he spends as much time as he can resting on the couch. Well, knowing I am sick, rather than the three of us running errands together, he volunteered to do them alone with the Babe. And these aren't quick errands either. I am hoping he sticks with his offer later this morning. I am so excited. Maybe that's why I couldn't sleep.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Blown Away
My nose is starting to hurt from all the blowing I have been doing today. Despite that, I have cleaned a bathroom, done a load of laundry, baked chocolate chip muffins, watered the flowers outside (and the Babe), and more. A Mommy's job is never done, despite the onset of a cold.
One thing I've been reminding myself of lately is how when you get married, you think you may be able to "train" your spouse. I didn't have that illusion, but apparently in some ways my husband has trained me. That sounds so sexist and demeaning. Believe me, I have a strong will and mind of my own. However, when we got married housekeeping was not my number one skill. It still isn't. In some ways my occasionally persnickety husband has gotten his way as to how things are done around our house. One specific area is loading the dishwasher. Well, we still disagree as to how certain things are placed. What he did instill was to pre-wash everything. That's right, I hand wash with a sponge and soap every piece of silverware and dish that goes into the dishwasher (ok, 98%). You should know when we first got married, he did the dishes most nights that we ate at home. I will give him credit that it does prevent food build-up on dishes, although its not necessarily environmentally friendly. I load and unload the dishwasher daily because we eat all our meals at home due to the Babe. That's a lot of dishes washed. I'm not complaining though because what I do in a day is nothing compared to what my grandmothers' did when they raised their children. The floors were swept, vacuumed or washed regularly (more than weekly), everything was dusted almost daily, three full meals made (plus desserts) most days, and they didn't complain. Well, that I know of. Different times meant different standards. So by today's standards I hope I at least do average. Then again, who am I competing with?
One thing I've been reminding myself of lately is how when you get married, you think you may be able to "train" your spouse. I didn't have that illusion, but apparently in some ways my husband has trained me. That sounds so sexist and demeaning. Believe me, I have a strong will and mind of my own. However, when we got married housekeeping was not my number one skill. It still isn't. In some ways my occasionally persnickety husband has gotten his way as to how things are done around our house. One specific area is loading the dishwasher. Well, we still disagree as to how certain things are placed. What he did instill was to pre-wash everything. That's right, I hand wash with a sponge and soap every piece of silverware and dish that goes into the dishwasher (ok, 98%). You should know when we first got married, he did the dishes most nights that we ate at home. I will give him credit that it does prevent food build-up on dishes, although its not necessarily environmentally friendly. I load and unload the dishwasher daily because we eat all our meals at home due to the Babe. That's a lot of dishes washed. I'm not complaining though because what I do in a day is nothing compared to what my grandmothers' did when they raised their children. The floors were swept, vacuumed or washed regularly (more than weekly), everything was dusted almost daily, three full meals made (plus desserts) most days, and they didn't complain. Well, that I know of. Different times meant different standards. So by today's standards I hope I at least do average. Then again, who am I competing with?
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Little Oops
While I am now not actively trying to potty train the Babe, if she asks or there is the opportunity, we go to the bathroom together. Today that meant putting her in a pull-up diaper just before we went to run an errand. Can you see the error of my ways? Clearly they were not meant to be on for extended periods of time. Oh wait, it was less than an hour after being in it, and she was standing (or rather bouncing around) next to me while I made a return at a department store. Next thing I know she tells me she leaked. She was in shorts so that is not a good thing. I grabbed a wipe, and swiped at her legs where I could see two lines of liquid working their way down. No one else seemed to notice, thankfully! As soon as I finished my transaction, we went to the restroom where I put her in a regular diaper and fresh pair of shorts. Except for this one blip, we had a nice time out running a few errands.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Temporary Hiatus
I've shamed myself into silence. Sorry for not posting, but after I failed to follow-through on my last post, I wasn't ready to say that I didn't do it. I was going to do it, I had the big-girl panties out and the protective pants ready to go for the Babe, but my husband commented he didn't think she was ready for it. That's all I needed to not go forward. So here we are in potty-training limbo. I still have time on my self-imposed deadline, and I really do want her trained in the very near future. I'm not entirely sure though that she is ready right now. She likes the idea of going on the potty, but only wants to go on it sporadically, and then just to throw paper in the toilet.
Now that I have outed myself, I can move on to other topics. Like how about making it through today, despite being up since 2:30 a.m.? Or that we had an overnight playdate with a little friend and his mommy. No, that wasn't the cause of my lack of sleep.
The overnight playdate started late afternoon yesterday. Both our husbands had out of town business trips last night, so timing was good. Initially there was some competition for toys, and off and on through the visit the kids would get a case of the "mine's". But they were pretty good at sharing when asked. Because I knew that we would have up to 24 hours with two little ones who are both only children, I tried to have a few activities planned in case we didn't actually get beyond our backyard. Pictured below is one of the craft projects we did. It was relatively inexpensive and the kids had fun. With two foam visors, the kids attached foam stickers to decorate them, and later wore them outside. This was decorated by the Babe all by herself. Its a jungle out there!
![]()
Now that I have outed myself, I can move on to other topics. Like how about making it through today, despite being up since 2:30 a.m.? Or that we had an overnight playdate with a little friend and his mommy. No, that wasn't the cause of my lack of sleep.
The overnight playdate started late afternoon yesterday. Both our husbands had out of town business trips last night, so timing was good. Initially there was some competition for toys, and off and on through the visit the kids would get a case of the "mine's". But they were pretty good at sharing when asked. Because I knew that we would have up to 24 hours with two little ones who are both only children, I tried to have a few activities planned in case we didn't actually get beyond our backyard. Pictured below is one of the craft projects we did. It was relatively inexpensive and the kids had fun. With two foam visors, the kids attached foam stickers to decorate them, and later wore them outside. This was decorated by the Babe all by herself. Its a jungle out there!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Training Day
Potty training took a temporary hiatus. I opted not to push it for a few days and regroup. After our first marathon day, the Babe was a little less inspired and not so quick to go running to the bathroom. By day three, I realized I needed a new strategy. So taking some friends advice, I went out and got waterproof pants to put over regular cotton underpants. Looks like tomorrow we'll see how much the Babe likes wet underwear. Let the accumulation of more laundry commence! I have twelve pairs of underpants for her, and I suspect all twelve will be put to use. Wish us luck, because I think we're going to need it.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Laundry Daze
Apparently these three things don't mix well: a full sippy cup, a pull-up diaper, and a long nap. I had my suspicions before attempting this maneuver, but took a gamble and lost. Ok, I was happy to have the Babe take a nap, which was part of why I was willing to ignore the little voice in my head telling me I was headed for trouble.
Last night was date night. The Babe was still sleeping when the sitter got here, and for some reason I felt it best to wake her a few minutes later. Good plan, because lo and behold there was a giant wet spot on her bed and the Babe was soaked. This was the first time the sitter got to give the Babe a bath. I got her started, and then proceeded to wash the Babe's sheets and mattress pad. Guess what number load of laundry this was for that day? Number 5! And it was the second time her sheets had been washed. Somehow, laundry seems to just grow around here. I had done 3 loads of laundry only the day prior, plus put away a few additional loads. I was more than happy to leave after that. Not that we had any exciting plans, other than dinner and a few errands. So today's goal...(not even thinking about potty training, but still working on that)... is that there be no need for laundry.
Last night was date night. The Babe was still sleeping when the sitter got here, and for some reason I felt it best to wake her a few minutes later. Good plan, because lo and behold there was a giant wet spot on her bed and the Babe was soaked. This was the first time the sitter got to give the Babe a bath. I got her started, and then proceeded to wash the Babe's sheets and mattress pad. Guess what number load of laundry this was for that day? Number 5! And it was the second time her sheets had been washed. Somehow, laundry seems to just grow around here. I had done 3 loads of laundry only the day prior, plus put away a few additional loads. I was more than happy to leave after that. Not that we had any exciting plans, other than dinner and a few errands. So today's goal...(not even thinking about potty training, but still working on that)... is that there be no need for laundry.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Status update
I have not given up, but yesterday was an unsuccessful day in our house. From about 8:45 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., I lifted the Babe 15 times on and off the toilet, and not once did she do anything other than waste toilet paper. She wanted to use it, but somehow didn't. My only results for my effort was an aching back. That would be why I temporarily stopped for the night. Fear not, the quest has not ended. As soon as she wakes up, we will begin again.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
A Gift Occasion?
You've heard of Push Gifts? Well, I think there should be Pish Gifts. Push gifts are the latest fad- have a kid, get a diamond tennis bracelet or other piece of expensive jewelry. Ok, I didn't get any, but I was more than happy to have a baby. I think in our house it was an either-or, and I opted for the child.
Now that I've spent multiple times getting said child onto the potty, and off again, and on again, I'm thinking there should be a reward for Mommies who potty train. Hence, Pish Gifts. Don't think I will be successful in that department though because my husband surprised me with something nice just a few days ago. However, a new books, perhaps. Hmmm, I'll just go buy it myself. That is, once I can leave the house and not put someone on the potty every 30 minutes.
Now that I've spent multiple times getting said child onto the potty, and off again, and on again, I'm thinking there should be a reward for Mommies who potty train. Hence, Pish Gifts. Don't think I will be successful in that department though because my husband surprised me with something nice just a few days ago. However, a new books, perhaps. Hmmm, I'll just go buy it myself. That is, once I can leave the house and not put someone on the potty every 30 minutes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)