I enjoy making homemade food presents for Christmas. Even if we're giving other gifts, we still usually include a treat we've made as well. It's become a tradition for us. Sure, you can buy plenty of food gifts in stores. But when you make them yourself, it's special. It's made with love! And not only that, but when YOU make it then YOU have control over the ingredients. As a mostly "clean" Continue Reading
100 things to do other than mindless eating during the snow
When you're house-bound because of a snowstorm or other bad weather, it's easy to let boredom or stress get the best of you -- and mindless eating ensues. To make matters worse, being at home means easy access to all the goodies you have on hand. Is it any wonder that over-snacking goes hand-in-hand with storms? There is no magic pill to cure that, but distraction and staying busy helps a lot. Continue Reading
Homemade trail mix is easy DIY gift, healthy snack
Here's a simple idea for a yummy, healthy snack you can make for yourself or give as a gift: DIY trail mix! Along with homemade peanut butter cups and other goodies, this Christmas I decided to put together my own trail mix blend to give as well. Trail mix, unlike a baked good or candy, is so simple that there really is no way to screw it up. There's also no right or wrong when it comes Continue Reading
How to make Glazed Blueberry Muffins (regular + gluten free)
Even though it's still a few months until blueberries are in season here in the U.S., I saw fresh, organic imported blueberries at the grocery store today. I immediately knew I wanted to make my favorite blueberry dish -- muffins! According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the health benefits of blueberries are plentiful: "Low in fat and a good source of Vitamin C, manganese and fiber … Continue Reading
Banana chocolate chip muffins (regular + gluten free)
Here's a sweet treat that makes a welcome addition to any meal. It's also wonderful on its own as a snack or quick breakfast. When you have bananas that are over-ripened and need to be used up, these muffins are a great option. Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 1/3 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 3 ripe bananas 1/3 cup water 1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute Pillsbury Gluten-Free Continue Reading
Eating like a bird
There's something to be said for "eating like a bird." Every day, I put some seed out on my deck and it's fun to watch songbirds of all kinds stop by. But one thing I've noticed about them is they swoop in and get a seed or two, then take off. Then the next one swoops in. They don't sit there devouring the whole pile at once, although they could -- even though they obviously love this treat. Continue Reading