Lea's Gluten Free

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T13:24:00.000-05:00

I've moved. Please join me at my new site at:

www.leaisglutenfree.com

Merry Christmas

2007-12-20T15:58:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas

To all of my Friends & Family

Peanut Butter Fudge

2007-12-17T17:35:00.000-05:00

For the last three days all you heard about was this big storm that we were suppose to get. The storm was coming on a Sunday and I was really looking forward to being snowed in for a day. Staying home with the family, doing some baking, watching some movies, just enjoy not being able to go anywhere. But what did we get, basically nothing. The sun even came out half way through the day.

Oh well...what are you going to do. I did make some peanut butter fudge though. This is the easiest peanut butter fudge there is to make. It is full proof.

Peanut Butter Fudge

1 1/2 cups smooth peanut butter (I use Jif)
3/4 cup butter

4 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

3 Tbsp. milk

Coat a 8-9 inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large microwave safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and butter. Microwave on 80% power for 1 to 2 minutes

Remove from the microwave and add the remaining ingredients; mix well and press into the greased pan. Microwave at 80% power for an additional 1 minute.

Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Cut and enjoy.

Caramel Corn

2007-12-10T16:19:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite holiday snacks is also naturally gluten free. It doesn't get any better than that. Caramel corn is just right with the sweetness and the crunchiness. Yum -o!

Caramel Corn

6 quarts popped corn
1 cup butter
1/2 cup light corn syrup
2 cups light brown sugar
1 tsp alt
1 tsp soda
1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 250. Keep your popcorn warm while making the syrup.

Melt butter, stir in brown sugar, corn syrup and salt. Bring to boil while stirring constantly. Remove from heat, add vanilla and soda. Pour over popcorn mixing with a wooden spoon.

Put into 2 cookie sheets evenly. Bake 1 hour stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Keep in airtight container.

Gluten Free S'More Cookie Bars

2007-12-03T13:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't been around much. My Internet is so slow I just can't stand to be on my computer at home and I'm so busy at work I can't find time to fit in a few minutes here and there. I found out last week that I have a broken foot so I am in a big boot for this holiday season and can't drive. So that means a lot of shopping over the Internet. But the husband is being wonderful.

I made these S'more Cookie Bars the other night and they were wonderful. I would wait longer before you cut them though. They were still pretty hot when I cut them so they fell apart however; once they cooled they were a firm bar that was easy and delicious to eat.

S'More Cookie Bars

1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp gluten free vanilla
1 1/3 cup Pamela's Baking Mix (or your personal gluten free flour blend)
3/4 gluten free graham cracker crumbs
1 tsp gluten free baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 large chocolate bars
1 1/2 cups Fluff

Preheat oven to 350. Grease 8 inch square baking pan.

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light. Beat in egg and vanilla.
Mix in flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt. Divide dough in half and press half of dough into an even layer on the bottom of the greased pan.

Place chocolate bars evenly over dough. Spread Fluff over the chocolate and place remaining dough in a single layer on top of the fluff. (I found that it was easiest to flatten pieces of the dough into small pieces and laying them together)

Bake 30 to 35 minutes, until lightly browned.

And enjoy....

During the Thanksgiving weekend we were able to spend some time with my husband's two great-nieces. They are so sweet. Here we are with Morgan and McKenna. (It's hunting season here in New York so we don't have to shave)

And of course no post would be complete without a new picture of Allie. Here she is with my dad on Thanksgiving.

Forgetting...

2007-11-14T18:51:00.000-05:00

I don't know about anyone else but sometimes life just gets so busy that I forget that I have Celiac, that I can't have gluten. I just don't have the "Classic" symptoms. I don't get sick right away, I usually don't have any symptoms. My main symptom is my anemia and with my iron shots I have been feeling really good again. I have energy again and I don't seem to experience the foggy feeling I would have at work half way through the day.

I was looking through Danna Korn's "Wheat Free Worry Free" the other night and realized that there are still products that I don't think about or worry about that I should.

Here is a list of items to either avoid completely or to do your homework on. I really needed this reminder to keep me thinking.

Envelopes, stamps or other gummed labels

Medicines

Cross contamination between food store bins selling raw flours and grains (the scoops are the culprit)

Non-gluten free bread crumbs in butter, jams, toasters, counters, etc.

Packet & canned soups

Ground spices- wheat flour is often used to prevent caking

Gravy mixes

Laxatives- check carefully

Ice Creams- check carefully

Rice cakes and crackers

Sandwich meats

Beef and Chicken broth

Egg substitutes

Baked beans

Dry roasted nuts

Dried fruits

Fruit pie fillings

Potato Chips

Instant drinks (tea, coffee, fruit drinks, chocolate)

Gum

Marshmallows

Candy

Baking Powder

Worcestershire Sauce

So the next time life gets busy and I just grab something to eat or to even touch my lips I hope I remember to stop and ask myself. Is this bad for me?

Allie Mae was tired and decided she was going to bed without mom.

Dear Santa,

2007-11-03T20:49:00.000-04:00

Dear Santa,

All I want for Christmas is high speed Internet. I've tried to be good, really I have.

Lea

The way I see it, if people can have their Christmas lights up on November 3rd, than I can start my Christmas list.

Allie is trying so hard to get close to her two brothers. If she could only hold still and not get so excited because she made it that far this position probably would've lasted the night.

I've already screwed it up...

2007-11-02T09:18:00.000-04:00

Flamenco Mom says this is National Blog Posting Month. Well, here it is November 2nd and I have already missed a day. This most likely is not going to work for me but I am going to try. Really I am...

I am also going to try some new recipes this month. This is my goal.

Sunday is my anniversary and we are going to try the Olive Garden. I contacted them and they said they do have gluten free options available. I'll keep you informed on that one.

Yesterday when I went to our local Top's Supermarket I found some Risotto mixes that are marked "Gluten Free" right on the box. Now I like seeing that. Now let's hope they taste good. I will also let you know how that turns out. That was actually the highlight of my day. I found out that I have a hand full of ganglion cysts. I have 1/2 dozen or more in my hand that will probably have to be removed by spring. They are growing along my bones instead of growing upwards though, so at least I don't have a lot of swelling in my hand. Not sure how good of news that is but we'll take what we can get at this point.

Sorry Dianne, I have no new pictures of Allie for you but we'll try for tomorrow. So until tomorrow have a good day....

GF Essentials- Cocoa Mudslide Cookie Mix

2007-10-16T13:00:00.000-04:00

I recently came across a new vendor, Gluten Free Essentials. They have had a chocolate lovers sampler pack so how could I pass that up. A girl has to have her chocolate.

Lastnight it was a little chilly outside and I didn't want to turn on the heat so I made cookies. These cookies the, Cocoa Mudslides, were excellent. They had a nice texture almost cake like with big chocolate chunks and big marshmallows. Just what this girl needed lastnight.

I can't wait to try the other mixes that came in the order.

Thank You "Gluten-Free Girl"

2007-10-10T11:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was an awful day. It was busy at work. I hurt my back the end of last week and yesterday was the first day back to work since and of course it was a long weekend because of Columbus Day so it was twice as hectic. I was so tired and grumpy by the time I arrived home. But lo and behold inside of my mailbox was my copy of Shauna's book. It was just what I needed. I couldn't wait to open the box and start reading it. And it is wonderful. It is just the inspiration that I needed. I can't say that I haven't been cheating lately. I get in these moods and the next thing you know I'm eating everything that I'm not suppose to. This has me inspired to start experimenting again with new recipes and to start eating healthy again.

It's time for me to find the foods that will love me back...

Rice with Olive Oil and Garlic

2007-09-28T10:24:00.001-04:00

Sorry I don't have a picture of this dish. I'll give you my newest picture of Allie Mae instead. She's getting so big. This rice dish was a last minute dish. We were suppose to have some chicken on the grill with baked potatoes. The idea was to give my husband a nice big dinner and then he would fall asleep in front of the TV about 8 and I would have TV to myself for the season premiers of Grey's Anatomy and CSI. However, about 5:00 it started pouring rain and it never let up. Thankfully though he still fell asleep and Allie and I had the TV to ourselves.

I must say though I was very disappointed with Greys'. It is still raining today so once I get home from work and Gary off to work I can not wait to sit down and watch CSI. I know that won't be disappointing.

Rice with Olive Oil and Garlic

2 cups cooked rice
1 T olive oil
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 T parsley chopped
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 medium tomatoe, chopped

Saute garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil until garlic is slightly golden. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and half of the parmesan cheese. Add the rice and top with remaining cheese and tomatoes.

Rice Pizza

2007-09-21T20:08:00.000-04:00

This took only about 20 minutes to make from start to finish. This is definately a keeper.

Pizza Rice

Preheat oven to 350

2 Cups Cooked Rice (I used the boil in the bag)
1 cup mozzarella cheese grated
1/2 medium green bell pepper diced
3 1/2 oz. pepperoni slices
1 1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 medium onion sliced
1 15 oz. can tomato sauce
1 T. olive oil
1/2 tsp. black pepper

Cook rice according to package

In a skillet, heat oil till hot. Saute onion and peppers until onion is translucent. Add spices and mix thoroughly.

Add half the pepperoni slices and saute for an additional 2 minutes.

Add tomato sauce, rice and 2 T. Parmesan cheese. Heat to simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes.

Pour into small casserole dish and layer with remaining pepperoni and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake in oven for 6 minutes or until cheese has melted.

Taco Casserole

2007-09-14T09:05:00.000-04:00

Here it is the middle of September already. Where is the time going? Oh that's right I decided to get a puppy. I love her she is a doll but as my husband said the other night "Hon, the animals are started to effect our day to day life". And I couldn't agree more. I can't remember the last time I had a good night sleep. One that didn't include taking a walk out to the hayfield at three in the morning so that Allie can go potty. I do enjoy looking at the stars at that time of the morning. The sky has been beautiful lately. But let's hope she is over this before the snow starts flying.

I just received my second iron shot. The doctor wanted me to have them once a month for right now and see how this works. Everyone kept telling me that they hurt really bad and the first one did and that was 8 weeks ago and I still have a bruise on my butt that looks like the state of Tennessee. I decided though instead of paying my doctor god knows how much to inject me with the Iron I would have my friend Kari (who is an RN) do it for me at home. She is wonderful. I never felt the shot, I had no pain and the best part no bruise. So NO Iron shots do not have to hurt.

The other night I actually cooked. I am still suffering with my allergies so I wanted to make something with a LOT of flavor and this is what I came up with.

Taco Casserole

1 lb hamburger

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic- chopped

1 cup water

1/2 cup thick and smooth taco Sauce ( I like Ortega)

4 ozs diced green chiles

1 package taco seasoning (Ortega)

1 package taco shells (broken)

2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

chopped tomatoes and sliced green onions

sour cream

Preheat oven to 375

Cook beef, onion, garlic until beef is browned; drain. Stir in water, taco sauce, chiles, and seasoning mix. Cook over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes.

Layer half of broken shells on bottom of greased 12x8 baking dish. Cover with half of meat sauce, sprinkle with one cup of cheese. Repeat with remaining shells, meat sauce and cheese. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted. To with sour cream, tomatoes and green onions. (I was too lazy to chop the tomatoes and green onion, but definitely will next time).

I hope you enjoy this and now I have some blogs to catch up on reading.

Where has this month gone?

2007-08-28T15:57:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it is the end of August already. This month has been crazy. I spent last week in Alabama with my family and let me just say it was HOT. Every day was over 100. And on the last day I got a cold and it's a week later and I still have it.

Something good did come out of my visit to Alabama though. I bought a new puppy. She is beagle / catahoula. She is wonderful. I will admit though that I had buyers remorse after I bought her. Just because puppy's are so much work. They are nothing like cats. Cats will take care of themselves even when they are kittens but dogs are another story. But she is turning out to be wonderful. She's from the south so she had to have three names. So I named her Miss Allie Mae Tennessee. (I actually got her in Tennessee, right over the Alabama border). She was my flea market find.

Gary didn't go on vacation with us. So this was a surprise to him. He wasn't too happy at first but that didn't last long. Now he is anxious to teach her to hunt and herd the cows. We will probably have to wait to see how big she is first.

I have done almost no cooking this month. If I do make something it's throwing some meat on the grill with some potatoes sliced up in some tin foil. I love to make my potatoes that way. I can have them fixed how I like them and so can Gary and the best part is no clean up.

We can say goodbye to August for 2007 and let's hope I can get more accomplished in September. I'll keep you informed.

Sprinkler Tinklers

2007-08-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

Gastro Girl had this on her blog today concerning "Sprinkler Tinklers". I don't know about anyone else but this is definately one of my pet peeves. It gave me my giggle for the day.

Feline Friday

2007-08-03T12:54:00.000-04:00

I bet I'll get that bird now...

BLT Pie

2007-08-01T09:37:00.001-04:00

It tastes as good as it sounds. My non gluten free hubby has been living on BLT's for the past couple of week and they looked and smelled so good. I wanted to hurt him every time he had one. This though is just as good if not a little better than his old sandwiches. I hope you like it as much as I did.

I started out making a batch of Pamela's Bisquick type mix. You can mix this up and then just keep it in an airtight container in the freezer or fridge. It will keep for a long time. And there is so much you can do with it. But that is for another time.

Bisquick Mix

2 ½ cups Pamela's Ultimate Baking & Pancake Mix

¾ cup shortening

Cut the shortening in the Pamela's Baking mix until no lumps appear.

BLT Pie

12 slices bacon, crisply cooked, crumbled

1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

½ cup of Pamela's Bisquick Mix

1/3 cup mayo or salad dressing

¾ cup milk

1/8 tsp. pepper

2 eggs

2 tablespoons mayo or salad dressing

1 cup shredded lettuce

6 thin slices of tomato or chopped

Preheat oven to 400°. Spray 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray. Layer bacon and cheese in pie plate.

In medium bowl, stir Pamela's Bisquick mix, 1/3 cup mayo, the milk, pepper and eggs with a wire whisk until blended. Pour into pie plate.

Bake 35 to 30 minutes or until top is golden brown and knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Spread 2 tablespoons mayo over top of pie. Sprinkle with lettuce. Places tomato on lettuce.

What are you looking at?

2007-07-27T13:59:00.000-04:00

I think he was a little tired of mommy taking his picture. He has that scowl on this face again.

Gluten Free Quick & Easy

2007-07-26T15:06:00.001-04:00

I received my copy of Carol Fenster's Gluten Free Quick & Easy and I cannot believe this cookbook. I have never purchased gluten free cookbooks before. However, this one is a must to have. I could not find one recipe in there that I will not be trying. She also has soooo much information in this book on the staples for your cupboards, refrigerators and freezer. She has double recipes in there. Have extra meatballs? Want to do something different with them? Carol has you covered.

There is a wonderful interview with Carol Fenster on Lucy's Free From (Gluten) blog that you must check out.

Now here's the big question. Which recipe will I make this weekend? Pulled Pork Wraps? Or maybe the Beef Carnita's.

Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

2007-07-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

Peanut Butter Eclair Cake

1 Cup Water
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/8 tsp. salt
1 1/4 cup Tom's Light Gluten Free Bread Mix
4 Eggs

Preheat oven to 425

In medium saucepan, combine water, butter and salt. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Immediately add flour and stir quickly with a wooden spoon. Return to heat and continue stirring until dough is a moist ball and all liquid is absorbed. Transfer to mixing bowl. Cool approximately 5 minutes. Add 1 egg and beat with electric mixer until thoroughly incorporated. Repeat with remaining eggs, adding 1 at a time. Spread into a 9 x 12 baking pan. Bake 20-22 minutes. Cake should be golden and dry.

Filling:

1- 8 oz package cream cheese

2- 4 oz packages vanilla instant pudding

2 1/2 cups milk

1/2 cup peanut butter (or more for a richer tasting)

Beat the cream cheese until smooth, add your pudding, milk, and peanut butter until smooth. Spread on cake once cake has cooled. Refrigerate for about an hour. Top with cool whip and chocolate syrup.

Feline Friday

2007-07-20T14:49:00.000-04:00

Kimberly at Markets and Cats always has beautiful pictures of her cats on Fridays. I thought that was really cool and since I always visit her site on Fridays why not do this on mine. Above is my baby Banshee (unfortunately we loss him a couple of years ago) and he looks exactly like I've been feeling lately.

FIRST DAY IN HEAVEN

Is Heaven all you asked of it,O little cat?

Did Peter fit A halo for your graceless head?

Is there a quilt for your special bed,

And a bowl of cream just out of reach Of your thieving paw?

Or do They teach you not to steal in Paradise?

Does the flapping of Their wings entice?

Do you scamper and swing on a golden fence,

Or are They teaching you reverence?

And are there really golden thrones Up there?

Or do the Mighty Ones

Have nice fat chairs that you can claw

And tear and snag with an impious paw?

And do the angels understand

That a little cat in a lonely land

Still longs for a kiss and a friendly cuff?

Celestial joys are not enough.

Please, some small saint in shining white,

Hold him close in your arms tonight.

Author Unknown...

Pepperoni Pie

2007-07-15T11:17:00.000-04:00

Pepperoni Pie

1/2 lb. muenster cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. oregano

1/2 cup gluten free flour

1 egg

1 1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup sliced pepperoni

Mix all ingredients together. Pour into 10" well greased pie plate. Bake at 350 degrees for thirty minutes.

Broccoli Salad

2007-07-12T18:22:00.000-04:00

Broccoli Salad

5-6 Cups of Broccoli Florets (about 1 pound)

1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

1/4 cup chopped red onion

1 cup fresh peas

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I like the Kraft Crumbles)

Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

1/4 cup sugar (or honey)

Mix all in a large bowl and chill thoroughly before serving.

It was like a little piece of Heaven, Natalie

2007-07-05T09:33:00.000-04:00

Our friend Natalie (Gluten Free Mommy) had on her site a recipe for "Dark Chocolate Gelato". Well I couldn't pass that one up. It was heavenly. It was so smooth and rich. I was in heaven for those few moments that it lasted. Thank you Natalie for posting it.

Muppet Show - Swedish Chef Making Eggs

2007-07-03T21:08:00.001-04:00

Here's a little giggle for everyone. They just don't make TV shows like they did when we were younger.

Lemon Cake

2007-07-02T12:43:00.001-04:00

I was in a terrible funk yesterday. I should really know better then to do anything when I feel that way, however, I decided to make my non gluten free husband a cake for a treat. While I was digging in my cupboard I found a Moist Lemon Cake mix from 'Cause Your Special that I had bought a while ago and decided if he's getting a cake I might as well make my self one. Well me being the airhead that I am sometimes forgot to change the temperature on the oven after his cake was done. But I do have to say that even the lemon cake is quite thin it is very moist and has a lot of taste. I till definitely purchase another mix and try it again.

My New Favorite Snack

2007-06-26T14:46:00.000-04:00

This is my new favorite snack. So now my daily food intake consists of 2 rice cakes with peanut butter, a yogurt and a bag of Yogo Bits. You would think with as little as I eat a day I would lose weight. But nope, still have that extra 30 pounds hanging aroung. Hopefully once I start with these iron injections I'll feel like eating again and still be able to lose this extra weight.

It's been so hot here the last couple of days and we still have one more day of this muggy weather. It is even too hot for Simba. Usually when I get home from work and get Gary off to work we go outside and work in the yard or he plays while I sit in the swing with a good book. But the last couple of days he hangs around inside the house with me until later in the evenings and then we go out and water all the plants and sit around in the swing together.

This is my favorite time of the year, the warm summer evenings, watching the lightening bugs dance around at night while my cats rough house in the yard.

I was playing today, can you tell....

2007-06-25T15:12:00.001-04:00

Intravenous Iron Infusions

2007-06-15T20:14:00.000-04:00

My doctor is suggesting that I have Intravenous Iron Infusions done, she is setting me up an appointment with a hematologist/oncologist. She says that this procedure will build up my iron storage levels and help me from bottoming out so quick. She also promises me that it will make feel much better. But I haven't been able to find out much about it and I would love to hear from any of you that has had this done.

The Easiest Peanut Butter Pie

2007-06-12T09:56:00.000-04:00

I have been craving something really sweet and delicious. I checked in my handy Gluten Free cupboard and forgot that I had bought a bag of graham crust. I wasn't sure how it was going to taste but it was delicious. All you needed to do was add butter and sugar pack it into your pie plate and chill. It was so easy. The graham was more like a flour then crushed graham crackers but the taste was definately there. And when you have all the delicious filling on top who notices the texture on the bottom.

Mix up your crust as directed on the package and flatten it into your pie dish and chill.

Mix together 3/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/4 cup peanut butter. Pour 3/4 of this mixture into your pie crust.

Prepare 2 packages of cook and serve vanilla pudding. Gluten free of course. Pour on top of the Peanut Butter misture and chill

Top with 1 container of cool whip and sprinke the remaining peanut butter mixture on top.

That's it. That's all there is too it. It is so easy and delicious. My husband was upset I was only giving him small pieces at a time. Sometimes you have to remind them that good things come in small packages.

We are going on vacation in August with my mom and dad to Alabama for a week. I am already starting to stress on leaving Simba at home for a week. He has wonderful sitters and I know he will be fine. But the idea of leaving him for a weak is killing me. I mean really how can you leave a face like this?

I also got to see my new nephew last night and hold him. He is so tiny and cute. And his big brother Camdyn is such a proud big brother that can't wait to teach his little brother how to run. I'm sure little Camdyn is going to be teach Tavyn a lot of things through the years. I will have to post some more pictures of him when I have some.

Our New Addition..

2007-06-08T18:02:00.000-04:00

This is my new great nephew. Tavyn Blake and his big brother Camdyn. I haven't had the chance to get my hands on him yet but I can't wait. Isn't he adorable?

Friendship

2007-06-01T09:59:00.000-04:00

I had lunch with our friend Lynn yesterday. It was a wonderful time. We had so much to talk about. It felt wonderful to sit down and talk with someone that you have so much in common with. We talked and talked and laughed and never ran out of things to say. I look forward to many more years of our new found friendship. Thank you Lynn...

Boston Cream Pie

2007-05-29T12:27:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful time in Lancaster the other day. I wish we were able to go away more often like that. Just the two of us. It makes our relationship so much stronger when we are able to get away from life and just enjoy being together. We did do the tour of Herrs and it was very interesting. But unfortunately it only lasted a day so here is a little something to make our lives a little sweeter.

Boston Cream Pie

Cake & Filling:
1 1/4 cups cold milk
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding
1 Tablespoon Gluten Free Vanilla

1 Gluten Free Pound Cake (I use 'Cause You're Special)

Combine mike and instant pudding and vanilla in large bowl. Beat for 2 minutes or until pudding thickens. Refrigerate for 15 minutes

Line 2-quart loaf pan with 2 layers of plastic wrap, allowing 2 inches of plastic wrap to hang over sides. Cut pound cake horizontally to make 3 equal layers. Place 1 cake layer in bottom of prepared pan, spread half of pudding evenly over cake.

Top with second layer; spread with remaining pudding. Top with third cake layer. Fold plastic overhang on top of cake to cover. Refrigerate cake for 1 hour before serving.

Chocolate Glaze
1/2 cup chocolate fudge topping
1/4 cup powered sugar- sifted

Stir chocolate fudge topping and powdered sugar in medium bowl until smooth. Fold back plastic from top of cake. Using plastic as aid, lift cake from pan; remove plastic. Cut cake crosswise into slices. Transfer cake slices to plates. Spoon glaze over cake and serve.

Lancaster

2007-05-23T14:12:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow I am going to Lancaster, Pennsylvania with my husband to take down a part for one of his farm tractors to get fixed. This is over a 5 hour drive from our house and once down there we have about 5 hours to kill while they fix the part before we drive the 5 hours back. I keep laughing that this is not going to be a fun day. I am going to be crampy and bitchy and he will be tired and bitchy (he will have to work until 2 tonight). So this is will be a fun day.

But Lancaster is a beautiful place. The scenery is gorgeous. I was looking for something to do tomorrow that we would both enjoy that wouldn't cost a lot. I came across free factory tours for Herr's Snacks. They have a really nice site with their Gluten Free items listed. So now I am sort of excited to take the long drive down for the day just to be able to take this tour. I'll report back and let you know how the tour was.

Chicken Bruschetta

2007-05-22T12:30:00.000-04:00

The weather is getting gorgeous out. Time to experiment with new grilling recipes. Not only do they taste wonderful but there are definitely less dishes to clean up.

Chicken Bruschetta

4 small skinless chicken breasts (I pounded mine out)

1/4 cup GF Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Dressing

Marinade your chicken for the day.

Finely chop 1 medium tomato

1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese (I just cubed some)

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp dried basil leaves

2 Tablespoons of the Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Dressing

Mix together and let flavors mix while you grill your chicken. Once chicken is grilled on one side flip and top evenly with tomato mixture. Close lid and grill for approximately 8 minutes more or until chicken is grilled through.

Mashed Potato Cakes

2007-05-17T09:54:00.000-04:00

We took my sister down to Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh to see a genetics specialist. When my nephew was born he had Trisomy-13 which caused his heart to be enlarged on one side and we wanted to see if there was a possibility of this happening again. Fortunately we received good news and there is a 99% chance that this would never happen again. That was such a relief to hear.

I wanted to share another one of my favorite comfort foods. My mom would make this for us when we were growing up and it's still one of my favorites.

These are so simple. Take your left over mashed potatoes add and egg and mix. In a separate dish combine some gluten free flour (whatever you have on hand) and add salt and pepper to taste. Shape your potatoes into cakes and dredge in flour.

In a frying pan add butter and oil and heat until it almost smokes and then fry your potatoes until golden brown.

These are excellent with leftover garlic mashed potatoes.

Enjoy...

Shortcake

2007-05-11T11:40:00.001-04:00

I adapted this recipe from a bisquick recipe. They turned out pretty good. I was craving biscuits (I think that is what I seem to crave the most) and came across this recipe on line. I don't like strawberries actually... I really don't like any fruit. Sometimes I feel this whole gluten free living would be easier if I liked fruit. But oh well what are you gonna do.

Shortcakes

2 1/3 cups Pamela's Baking and Pancake mix
3/4 cup shortening

mix together then add

1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

1. Heat oven to 425°F.
2. Stir ingredients mix, milk, sugar and butter until soft dough forms. Drop by 6 spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet.
3. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.

The old standby...

2007-05-10T08:57:00.000-04:00

Five nights a week I am eating dinner by myself. Just me and my little ol' self. This is my old standby. Pasta! It's quick and easy. Cook up some pasta, saute some garlic in olive oil (or butter, Paula Dean is my kind of woman), cut up some cheese, parsley and Parmesan cheese. I basically just throw in what ever is at hand at the moment. It's filling and satisfying. It took me a while to find a pasta that was comparable to the real thing. But I do like this one. It has a more natural texture and taste to it. So this is it, this is my old standby. Now I'm off to get some work done..

Feeling wonderful...

2007-05-08T12:11:00.000-04:00

I just realized after taking a walk downtown during work and walking back up the hill that I feel wonderful today. It is a beautiful day (74 degrees to far and it is only 11 a.m.). I didn't feel like I should lay down and take a nap. Last week was awful. I would go to work and never really get up any energy and have trouble concentrating all day. Then I would hurry home and get Gary off to work so that I could take a two hour nap and still be in bed not even 2 hours later for the night.

I think my new iron supplements are working. YEA! I am so happy. Now I can get back to cooking and creating. I have so much work to get down outside and inside. Gardens to be planted, weeds to be pulled. The trees are budding the flowers are blooming. I love this time of year.

Pretzel Crusted Chicken Fingers w/Cheddar Mustard Sauce

2007-05-01T19:08:00.000-04:00

Happy May Day to All of my Friends!!

I adapted this recipe from a Rachael Ray recipe. It was wonderful. The chicken was so moist.

Pretzel Crusted Chicken Fingers with Cheddar Mustard Sauce

1 lb Chicken Fingers

2 eggs

About 1 1/2 cups crushed Gluten Free Pretzels

(You need about 1 1/2 cups after the pretzels are smashed)
Salt and Pepper to season

Dip each chicken finger in the beaten egg and cover with the crushed pretzels. Lay fingers on a cooling rack on top of a cookie sheet and bake in the over on 375 for about 20 minutes.

2 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons Corn Starch
2 Cups Milk
3/4 lb, about 2 1/2 cups sharp yellow cheddar cheese, shredded
2 heaping tablespoons of spicy brown mustard
1/4 cup parsley

While the chicken is in the oven in a medium saucepan, melt the butter and add the cornstarch. Cook for about 1 minutes whisk in the milk. Once the milk starts to bubble, stir in the cheese and mustard with a wooden spoon, season with salt and pepper and remove cheese sauce from the heat.

Place chicken on a plate, drizzle with mustard-cheddar sauce and top with parsley.

While the chicken is in the oven in a medium sauce pan melt.

A little about my life...

2007-04-30T14:58:00.000-04:00

I live a very simple life. I like it that way. I work for our local County government by day as a Secretary in the highway department and my husband works for Friendship Dairies by night and we have a small beef farm. So as you can tell we don't see much of each other. We have no children but we do have three cats that are our life. I would like to introduce you to them.

Our oldest is Macie Gray ( he's the care taker)

Then there is Spooky ( I wasn't to creative on that one)

And finally my baby. Gary bought him for me 2 years ago for Christmas. He is a bengal and his name is Simba. He is such a brat. I have never met a cat like him. He makes me laugh everyday.

I have to show you a couple pictures of him so you can see how beautiful he is.

Ok maybe one more, I'm such a proud mommy.

This is what makes me happy. After a long day at work I come home to these three beautiful creatures.

Pumpkin Angel Food Cake

2007-04-28T10:51:00.000-04:00

Pumpkin Angel Food Cake

1 can pumpkin
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tsp. pumpkin spice
or (1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. cloves, 1/8 tsp. ginger)
1 Gluten-Free Pantry Angel Food Cake Mix
1 3/4 cup warm water

Mix pumpkin, vanilla, pumpkin spice. Make cake mix as directed minus vanilla. Fold 1/4 batter into pumpkin mixture. Gently fold in the remaining batter. Pour into 10" tube pan. Bake at 350 for 40-50 minutes. Run knife around edge and invert as soon as it comes out of oven.

Once cooled and removed from pan sprinkle with cinnamon.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

2007-04-27T12:52:00.000-04:00

My doctor just called my iron levels are extremely low once again. I give up. They go up and they go down. He is putting me on a new supplement that I have to take 3 times a day. That will be interesting to see how well I remember to do that. Just when you think you are making headway and you find out that your not.

Iron deficiency anemia is very common with Celiac Disease. This is due to the small intestine not absorbing nutrition. Iron is essential for a healthy immune system and for energy production. Here are some tips for taking iron:

Take Iron and Vitamin C together. The presence of vitamin C can increase iron's absorption by as much as 30 percent.

Avoid taking an antacid at the same time you take iron. Stomach acid is needed properly to absorb iron.

Avoid using excessive amounts of zinc and vitamin E, which can interfere with iron absorption.

Take vitamin A and B complex at the same time as iron. They are also needed for complete iron absorption.

Iron is also found in many foods, including eggs, meat, poultry, leafy green vegetables, and molasses.

McCormick Grill Mates

2007-04-26T19:06:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite products. This is something that my husband can actually prepare on his own that helps me out. It's summer time and I love to grill everyday. I received this reply back from Grill Mates today on the Mesquite Marinade. This is great to know about McCormick products. Now I can try more of their marinades and rubs without fear.

"The Grill Mates Mesquite Marinade is Gluten free.

We recognize that gluten is the common name for proteins in specific cereal grains that are harmful to persons with Celiac Disease. These proteins are found in all forms of wheat (including durum, semolina, spelt, kamut, einkorn, and faro), and related grains, rye, barley, and tritcale. When gluten or wheat is present as an ingredient, McCormick will declare it in the ingredient statement. Since the late 1990's, McCormick has used "Plain English" allergen labeling to communicate our product ingredients to our consumers. Gluten is listed as "wheat" in our ingredient statements.

This labeling policy adheres to the FDA regulations that were implemented as of January 1, 2006. If a product does not have an ingredient statement, it is a pure spice or herb with nothing added and contains no added glutens. In addition, the alcohol in all of our retail extracts is not from grain and is gluten free. Because we are constantly improving our products, we do not offer a list of our products that do not currently contain glutens. We encourage you to read the ingredient statement on your package at the time of purchase to ensure accurate, up to date information. "

Pumpkin Pancakes

2007-04-23T19:18:00.000-04:00

I had to get out of bed this morning just so that I could go to the dentist and get tortured today. It's 8 hours later and still have a sore mouth. So I experimented a little. Before I was gluten free I used to love to go to the local pancake house in the fall time and have Pumpkin Pancakes with fresh maple syrup. These are pretty close and when served with freshly made maple syrup how can you go wrong.

Pumpkin Pancakes

1 Cup Pamela's Baking & Pancake Mix
1 Egg
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1/4 Cup canned pumpkin
1/4 Tsp. nutmeg
1/4 Tsp. ginger
1/2 Tsp. Cinnamon
3/4 Cup Milk or Water

Mix all together.

Aaron James

2007-04-22T11:37:00.000-04:00

Today is my nephews memorial service. Little Aaron James was born on April 5th and was with us for a few short hours. It is amazing how such a little person can touch your heart is such a short time. He will be forever in my heart.

I wanted to share this poem with everyone that was given to my sister by the hospital. No poem could ever describe the feelings more than this one.

A WALK TO REMEMBER
I walk to remember
The steps you’ll never take.
I carry you with me
As I firmly plant my feet.
Our trek started long ago,
Before my belly swelled.
You were a love that grew-
Like butterfly wings that beat.
Your gentle flutters then became
Kicks upon which I would dwell.
And I would take to you,
sweet babe,
About the world you soon would meet.

The sun always shone upon us then-
When you were in my womb.
And I was eager to show you the world
That would have been your home.
How you’d have loved the sun shining-
Blue skies without a cloud.
The autumn leaves turning-
the snow falling all around.
The flowers in the summer-
Would have filled your eyes with smiles.
And the rain that might have fallen
Would have caused you great surprise.
You would have traveled far with me-
Holding me by the hand.
And I’d have shown you all I could-
More than I could imagine.

You hold my HEART tightly now,
As though we’re holding hands.
How far we’ve traveled, little one-
And my life with you has been sweet.
For I carry you in my heart,
as I firmly plant my feet.

Peanut Butter Cookies

2007-04-21T17:24:00.000-04:00

These are the easiest and fastest Peanut Butter cookies I have every made. 15 minutes from start to finish.

1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Peanut Butter (I use Jif)
1 Egg

Mix together and bake at 350 for 10 minutes. That's it.

You can also use brown sugar instead of white sugar or if you are watching your calories replace with Splenda.

I like to load them up with chocolate. Every girls has to have her chocolate.

Receipts, Receipts and More Receipts

2007-04-20T14:11:00.000-04:00

I just spent a good hour going through my receipts for Gluten Free foods that I purchase. But it was worth it. I can get almost 90% of my money that I spend back through our Flex Spending Account. All you need to do is keep track of what you spend on Gluten Free products and what it would cost you if it wasn't gluten free and claim the difference . You can also claim shipping and tax. When submitting claims be sure to include a letter from your doctor stating that you are required to be on a Gluten Free diet. It's that easy. So if you have a Flex Spending Account to save your receipts.

What a huge savings! A flex spending account works along the guidelines that the IRS sets.

Chicken Taco Soup

2007-04-14T14:06:00.000-04:00

Here it is the third week in April and the weatherman is predicting heavy snow later on tonight into Monday. I figured a big pot of soup would be good for the weekend, along with a warm snugly blanket and movies.

Chicken Taco Soup

1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
1 T. minced garlic
olive oil
1 lb. chicken breasts, boiled and shredded
1 package GF taco seasoning mix (I use Ortega)
1 (8 oz) jar salsa
14 oz. corn
1 (16 oz) ranch style beans
1 (14 oz) hominy
6 oz tomato paste
2 (14 oz) cans chicken broth
1 (8 oz) cream cheese

Saute onions, green bell peppers and garlic in olive oil. Add chicken, taco seasoning, salsa, vegetables, beans, tomato paste and chicken broth. Bring to a slow slimmer for 20 minutes. Cut cream cheese into cubes and place in separate bowl and take some hot liquid from soup and pour over cream cheese to melt and then add back to the soup. Simmer on low for another 10 minutes. Serve with Gluten free tortilla chips and grated monterey jack cheese.

This is just as tasty without the cream cheese if you can not have the dairy.

Lucy

2007-04-13T23:17:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share this picture. This is my newest baby, Lucy. She was born a couple of days ago and is the sweetest little girl.

It's getting to be a joke but every night when I get home from work, I get my husband his supper and get him off to work. ( I get to see my husband for about a hour a day, not always a bad thing) Anyways, he'll tell me to make sure I check on the calves and let their mommy's in. I whine every night that I just want to sit on the couch and veg. But I do, I go down and see her and she just makes me smile. So everyone this is Lucy my little bundle of joy. For a little while anyways. I have to enjoy her while I can pretty soon she'll be way to big to be my little girl.

2007-04-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

Comfort Food. I am all about comfort food and this one of my favorites. I love to mix up a batch of meatballs and have them as a meal. Also this is a great dish to take as lunch the next day. (And I must say they were mighty tasty today for lunch)

If I am making them as a meal for my husband and myself, then I will cook him some spaghetti to go with them and for myself I will make some Chebe Bread and bake it with lots of garlic infused olive oil for an open-faced meatball sandwich.

I made my meatballs a little different this time. I never buy or make gluten free breads, so this time I took my gluten free breadcrumbs and soaked them in milk and that gave me a nice texture for my meatballs then mixed in garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, eggs, basil and parsley.

2007-04-04T19:23:00.000-04:00

Life is hard at times. Things are thrown at you that you just don't know if you will be able to handle. But we do. We get through those times. We get through them with the help of family and friends.

Living with Celiac Disease can be tough, especially when it feels like you are the only one with it. Family gatherings and office parties are tough to get through without eating food that you just know is bad for you. I do not have the classic symptoms of the disease. I can eat and eat almost anything and never show any symptoms. My loving husband though is always there to remind me that no I can't.

My husband and I live on a small farm in a small town in rural Western New York. We do no have children and unfortunately there are no children in our future. We do though have 3 cats that we love more then anything. The closest store to buy gluten free products is about 30 miles a way and then the products are very limited.

There are several posts that I read weekly that help keep me motivated. I would like to thank Karina, Lynn and Shauna. I am hopeful that writing about this and sharing my story with other people will help keep me motivated and maybe I will be able to motivate someone else.